#FIRSTLOOK: APPLE TV+ UNVEIL UPCOMING SPRING/SUMMER 2024 LINEUP

Today at the 2024 Winter Television Critics Association press tour, Apple TV+ shared a glimpse at new, original stories, and returning hit series that will premiere globally in spring/summer 2024. Coming up this year, Apple TV+ will expand its award-winning slate of originals with highly anticipated new series including “The New Look,” “The Dynasty: New England Patriots,” “Constellation,” “The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin,” “Manhunt,” “Palm Royale,” “Sugar,” “Franklin,” “Dark Matter,” “Presumed Innocent,” “Land of Women” and more.

Plus, fans can look forward to new seasons of widely celebrated titles such as “Loot,” “The Reluctant Traveler With Eugene Levy,” “The Big Door Prize,” “Acapulco,” “Trying” and even more beloved originals from Peanuts for the whole family to enjoy.

“Today we are elated to be unveiling so many brilliant new stories and characters for audiences to fall in love with in 2024,” said Matt Cherniss, head of domestic programming, Apple TV+. “These compelling series all reflect Apple’s dedication to crafting stories that not only entertain but reflect the richness of our shared human experience, foster a sense of understanding and spark cultural conversations around the world. We can’t wait for everyone to experience what we have in store.”

As momentum around Apple TV+ continues to grow, new original series set to debut in 2024 will join an offering of premium, hit original series including the recently renewed “Hijack,” as well as global hit series “Masters of the Air,” “Silo,” “Monarch: Legacy of Monsters,” “Lessons in Chemistry,” “For All Mankind,” “Shrinking,” “Ted Lasso” and “Severance,” among many others.

This year, Apple TV+ has already premiered globally acclaimed titles “Criminal Record,” and the epic limited series “Masters of the Air,” hailing from Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman. Coming up in the months ahead, Apple TV+ will debut exciting new series including:

“The New Look”
Premiere date: Wednesday, February 14

A gripping new historical drama series from Todd A. Kessler, starring Emmy Award winner Ben Mendelsohn as Christian Dior and Academy Award winner Juliette Binoche as Coco Chanel. Inspired by true events and filmed exclusively in Paris, “The New Look” centres on fashion designers Christian Dior, Coco Chanel and their contemporaries as they navigated the horrors of World War II and launched modern fashion. The 10-episode drama series will make its global debut with the first three episodes on Wednesday, February 14, 2024 on Apple TV+, followed by one episode every Wednesday through April 3.

Set against the World War II Nazi occupation of Paris, “The New Look” focuses on the pivotal moment in the 20th century when the French city led the world back to life through its fashion icon Christian Dior. As Dior rises to prominence with his groundbreaking, iconic imprint of beauty and influence, Chanel’s reign as the world’s most famous fashion designer is put into jeopardy. The interwoven saga follows the surprising stories of Dior’s contemporaries and rivals from Chanel to Pierre Balmain, Cristóbal Balenciaga and more; and, provides a stunning view into the atelier, designs and clothing created by Dior through collaboration with the House of Dior. In addition to Mendelsohn and Binoche, “The New Look” ensemble cast is led by Maisie Williams as Catherine Dior; John Malkovich as Lucien Lelong; Emily Mortimer as Elsa Lombardi; Claes Bang as Spatz; and, Glenn Close as Carmel Snow.

“The New Look” is produced by Apple Studios and DB-AK Productions, and is written, executive produced and directed by Kessler. Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Mark Baker also serve as executive producers.

“The Dynasty: New England Patriots”
Premiere date: Friday, February 16

A highly anticipated 10-part documentary event from Brian Grazer and Ron Howard’s Imagine Documentaries, showcasing the rise of the most dominant sports dynasty of the 21st century, the New England Patriots. Set to premiere globally Friday, February 16, “The Dynasty: New England Patriots” brings together former quarterback Tom Brady, coach Bill Belichick and owner Robert Kraft, along with a wide range of contributors, as they give the definitive story of the team’s remarkable reign.

Featuring interviews with Kraft, Belichick and Brady, the series offers unparalleled access to, and insights from, past and present Patriots players, coaches and executives, including Adam Vinatieri, Drew Bledsoe, Rob Gronkowski, Ty Law, Bill Parcells and Jonathan Kraft; league officials and sports journalists like Roger Goodell, Al Michaels and Howard Bryant; and high-profile fans, such as Jon Bon Jovi, Bill Burr, Rupert Murdoch and many more. The docuseries explores the franchise’s 20-year journey, from the unique chemistry that fueled six Super Bowl wins to the internal strife that sparked a turf war. From the owner’s suite to the locker room, the series reveals an insider’s look at the road to — and cost of — greatness.

Directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Matthew Hamachek, “The Dynasty: New England Patriots” chronicles the rise and historic 20-year run of the Patriots during the Brady-Belichick-Kraft era. The docuseries is based on the critically acclaimed New York Times bestselling book of the same title by author Jeff Benedict and goes deeper, drawing on thousands of hours of never-before-seen video footage and audio files from the Patriots organization’s archive. Produced by Imagine Documentaries, the documentary series is executive produced by Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes, and Jeff Benedict, along with Matthew Hamachek, who also serves as director.

“Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin”
Premiere date: Friday, February 16

The origin story for one of Peanuts’ most beloved characters, Franklin, follows how he approaches making new friends. Franklin’s family is always on the move with his dad’s military job, and everywhere he goes Franklin finds support in a notebook filled with his grandfather’s advice on friendship. But when Franklin tries his usual strategies with the Peanuts gang, he has trouble fitting in. That’s until he learns about the neighbourhood Soap Box Derby race – according to his grandfather, everyone loves a winner! He’s sure that winning the race will also mean winning over some new friends. All he needs is a partner, which he finds in Charlie Brown. Franklin and Charlie Brown work together to build a car and in the process become good buddies. But as the race nears, the pressure mounts – can their car and their newfound friendship make it to the finish line?

Produced for Apple TV+ by Peanuts and WildBrain, the special is directed by Emmy Award winner Raymond S. Persi and is co-written by Robb Armstrong along with Craig Schulz, Bryan Schulz and Cornelius Uliano, from an original story by Armstrong and Scott Montgomery. Executive producers are Craig Schulz, Bryan Schulz, Cornelius Uliano, Paige Braddock, Josh Scherba, Stephanie Betts and Logan McPherson.

“Constellation”
Premiere date: Wednesday, February 21

A new, eight-part conspiracy-based psychological thriller starring Noomi Rapace and Emmy Award nominee Jonathan Banks that will premiere globally on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 with the first three episodes, followed by one episode weekly, every Wednesday through March 27 on Apple TV+.

Created and written by Peter Harness, “Constellation” stars Rapace as Jo – an astronaut who returns to Earth after a disaster in space – only to discover that key pieces of her life seem to be missing. The action-packed space adventure is an exploration of the dark edges of human psychology, and one woman’s desperate quest to expose the truth about the hidden history of space travel and recover all that she has lost. The series also stars James D’Arcy, Julian Looman, Will Catlett, Barbara Sukowa, and introduces Rosie and Davina Coleman as Alice.

“Constellation” is directed by Emmy Award winner Michelle MacLaren, Oscar nominee Oliver Hirschbiegel and Oscar nominee Joseph Cedar. Produced by Turbine Studios and Haut et Court TV, the series is executive produced by David Tanner, Tracey Scoffield, Caroline Benjo, Simon Arnal, Carole Scotta and Justin Thomson. MacLaren directs the first two episodes and executive produces the series with Rebecca Hobbs and co-executive producer Jahan Lopes for MacLaren Entertainment. Harness executive produces through Haunted Barn Ltd. The series was shot principally in Germany and was series produced by Daniel Hetzer for Turbine Studios, Germany.

“Messi’s World Cup: The Rise of a Legend”
Premiere date: Wednesday, February 21

The highly anticipated four-part documentary event tracking the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner through his sensational career, including five FIFA World Cup appearances and his FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 win, in one of the most exciting finals in history. In his own words, Messi tells the definitive story of his incredible career with the Argentina national football team, providing an intimate and unprecedented look at his quest for a legacy-defining World Cup victory.

“Messi’s World Cup: The Rise of a Legend” highlights the thrilling story of the planet’s top living athlete, his loyal supporters across Argentina and those who made the pilgrimage across the globe to witness his epic World Cup win. The series also features the most personal interviews to date with Messi, alongside conversations with teammates, coaches, competitors, devout fans and commentators testifying to the incredible influence and impact he has on a nation and world stage. The docuseries explores the grace, fortitude and willpower he has exhibited throughout his career as it charts the dramatic path from his first match with the Argentina national football team to carrying the weight of a country on his shoulders through several elusive World Cup wins, leading to his early retirement in 2016 and, ultimately, the comeback to become a FIFA World Cup champion and be crowned the 2022 tournament’s best player.

Hailing from SMUGGLER Entertainment, “Messi’s World Cup: The Rise of a Legend” is executive produced by Emmy Award winner Tim Pastore, Emmy and Tony Award winners Patrick Milling Smith and Brian Carmody, and Emmy Award winner Matt Renner of SMUGGLER Entertainment, alongside Jenna Millman and Juan Camilo Cruz. The series is produced for Apple by SMUGGLER Entertainment and in association with Pegsa.

“The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin”
Premiere date: Friday, March 1

“The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin” is a new, six-episode comedy-adventure series starring Noel Fielding in the titular role as the legendary British highwayman that will premiere globally on Friday, March 1, 2024 with the first two episodes, followed by a new episode every Friday through March 29.

In “The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin,” Dick Turpin (Fielding) sets out on a journey of wildly absurd escapades when he’s made the reluctant leader of a band of outlaws — and tasked with outwitting corrupt lawman and self-appointed thief-taker Jonathan Wilde (Hugh Bonneville). In this irreverent retelling set in the 18th century, Turpin is the most famous but least likely of highway robbers, whose success is defined mostly by his charm, showmanship and great hair. Together with his gang of lovable rogues, Turpin rides the highs and lows of his new endeavours, including a brush with celebrity, all whilst trying to escape the clutches of the thief-taker.

Produced by Apple TV+ and Big Talk Studios, part of ITV Studios, “The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin” is created by Claire Downes, Ian Jarvis and Stuart Lane, and written by Jon Brittain, Richard Naylor, Claire Downes, Ian Jarvis and Stuart Lane, with Noel Fielding. The series is executive produced by Kenton Allen, Big Talk Studios, Noel Fielding, Victoria Grew, Big Talk Studios and Ben Palmer.

“The Reluctant Traveler With Eugene Levy” – Season Two
Premiere date: Friday, March 8

After confronting some of his long-held fears in season one, Emmy Award winner Eugene Levy steps out of his comfort zone once again. This time, he’s embarking on a ‘must do’ journey for any respectable globetrotter – a grand tour of Europe. The seven-part second season of the acclaimed country-hopping travel series follows Levy as he makes his way from the very north of the continent to the very south. Along the way, he unearths stunning hidden local gems, discovers his family tree and attempts to broaden his taste buds while experiencing the region’s most unique destinations along the way. Join him as he goes on the trip of a lifetime he never knew he needed.

This season, Levy ventures even further off the beaten path, inspired to experience local practices and global escapades with friends both new and old, including preparing for Midsummer in Swedish tradition with a moose tracking adventure, visiting for the first time the land of his mother’s childhood – Scotland, dining with a luminary and taking a bite out of French cuisine in Saint-Tropez, embracing wellness with a ‘hay bath’ under German thatched roofs on the island of Sylt, voyaging on a Greek fishing expedition around Milos, learning medieval customs and harvesting grapes in Italy and playing soccer with a Spanish international player in Seville, Spain.

“The Reluctant Traveler With Eugene Levy” is produced for Apple TV+ by Twofour and is executive produced by Levy, David Brindley, Nic Patten and Sara Brailsford.

“Manhunt”
Premiere date: Friday, March 15

A new, seven-part true crime limited series starring Emmy Award-winning actor Tobias Menzies, and created by Emmy nominee Monica Beletsky, who also serves as showrunner and executive producer. “Manhunt” is set to make its global debut on Apple TV+ with the first two episodes airing on Friday, March 15, 2024, and episodes will debut weekly on Fridays through April 19, 2024.

Based on The New York Times bestselling and Edgar Award-winning nonfiction book from author James L. Swanson, “Manhunt” is a conspiracy thriller about one of the best known but least understood crimes in history, the astonishing story of the hunt for John Wilkes Booth in the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Starring alongside Menzies are Anthony Boyle, Lovie Simone, Will Harrison, Brandon Flynn, Damian O’Hare, Glenn Morshower, Patton Oswalt, Matt Walsh and Hamish Linklater.

“Manhunt” is produced by Apple Studios and co-produced by Lionsgate Television, in association with POV Entertainment, Walden Media, 3 Arts Entertainment, Dovetale Productions and Monarch Pictures. Beletsky, Franklin, Layne Eskridge and Kate Barry executive produce. Emmy nominee Carl Franklin directed the first two episodes and is also an executive producer on the series. Swanson, author of “Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln’s Killer” also serves as executive producer alongside Michael Rotenberg, Richard Abate, Frank Smith and Naia Cucukov.

“Palm Royale”
Premiere date: Wednesday, March 20

“Palm Royale” is the highly anticipated Palm Beach-set series starring and executive produced by Emmy and Academy Award nominee Kristen Wiig, who leads a renowned ensemble cast that includes Oscar and Emmy winners Laura Dern and Allison Janney, alongside Ricky Martin, Josh Lucas, Leslie Bibb, Amber Chardae Robinson, Mindy Cohn, Julia Duffy and Kaia Gerber. With extra special guest star turns by the legendary Bruce Dern and the iconic, multiple-award winning Carol Burnett, “Palm Royale” makes its global debut on Apple TV+, premiering the first three episodes on March 20, 2024 followed by new episodes every Wednesday through May 8.

“Palm Royale” is a true underdog story that follows Maxine Simmons (Wiig) as she endeavours to break into Palm Beach high society. As Maxine attempts to cross that impermeable line between the haves and the have-nots, “Palm Royale” asks the same question that still baffles us today: “How much of yourself are you willing to sacrifice to get what someone else has?” Set during the powder keg year of 1969, “Palm Royale” is a testament to every outsider fighting for their chance to truly belong.

Loosely based on the novel “Mr. and Mrs. American Pie” by Juliet McDaniel and produced for Apple TV+ by Apple Studios, “Palm Royale” is written, executive produced and showrun by Abe Sylvia for Aunt Sylvia’s Moving Picture Company, executive produced by Laura Dern and Jayme Lemons for Jaywalker Pictures, Kristen Wiig, Katie O’Connell Marsh, Tate Taylor and John Norris for Wyolah Films, Sharr White, Sheri Holman and Boat Rocker. The series is directed by Taylor, Sylvia, Claire Scanlon and Stephanie Laing.

“Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock” – Season Two
Premiere date: Friday, March 29

In the second season of the Emmy Award-winning series, “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock,” the reboot of Jim Henson’s beloved classic “Fraggle Rock,” the Fraggles are back for more epic, fun adventures! This time, with big changes affecting the Rock, the Fraggles, Doozers and Gorgs will be forced to confront their past and celebrate their interdependence, as they move through challenges together with hope, silliness and brand new songs, all while dancing their cares away … down at Fraggle Rock.

Jim Henson’s fun-loving and musical Fraggles — Gobo, Red, Boober, Mokey, Wembley and Uncle Travelling Matt — alongside new Fraggles and Doozers, embark on epic, hilarious adventures about the magic that happens when we celebrate and care for our interconnected world. Tony and Grammy Award winner, and Emmy Award nominee Daveed Diggs returns for season two alongside Academy Award winner Ariana DeBose, Emmy Award winner Brett Goldstein and Emmy Award winner Catherine O’Hara in guest star roles.

“Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock” is executive produced by The Jim Henson Company’s Lisa Henson and Halle Stanford, longtime Henson collaborator John Tartaglia, Matt Fusfeld and Alex Cuthbertson. Co-executive producers are Dave Goelz and Karen Prell, and executive music producer is Harvey Mason Jr. The new season is produced by Chris Plourde and co-produced by Tim O’Brien. The series is produced in association with New Regency with Yariv Milchan and Michael Schaefer executive producing.

“Loot” – Season Two
Premiere date: Wednesday, April 3

Season two of “Loot,” the laugh out loud comedy starring and executive produced by Emmy Award winner Maya Rudolph, will premiere on Wednesday, April 3 on Apple TV+. Starring Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Nat Faxon, Ron Funches and Joel Kim Booster, “Loot” season two will debut with two episodes followed by new episodes every Wednesday through May 29. Apple is excited to share first look images from the upcoming season today.

“Loot” returns for season two a year after Molly Wells’ (Maya Rudolph) very public divorce from tech billionaire John Novak (Adam Scott), where we find her thriving in her role as the head of her philanthropic organization the Wells Foundation. Focused mainly on her charity work, Molly has sworn off any new relationships with any new men. Fabulously single but not particularly independent, Molly’s trusty assistant Nicholas (Joel Kim Booster) remains by her side, diligently catering to her every whim…and occasionally feeding her a kale smoothie spiked with gin.

Sofia Salinas (Michaela Jae Rodriquez), the no-nonsense executive director of the foundation, continues to run the Wells Foundation with compassionate efficiency, but her all-business ethos is thrown for a loop when she meets Molly’s charismatic architect friend Isaac (O-T Fagbenle). The bromance between Howard (Ron Funches) and Nicholas also continues to flourish as they support each other in their endeavours both inside and outside the workplace. Meanwhile Arthur (Nat Faxon) has moved past his feelings for Molly and announced he has a new devil-may-care attitude on life, a change encapsulated by a very very lame leather bracelet. The Wells Foundation team, including Rhonda (Meagen Fay) and Ainsley (Stephanie Styles), must pull together as co-workers and friends as Molly strives to publicly live up to her promise of giving away all of her vast fortune.

“Loot” is created, written and executive produced by Alan Yang and Matt Hubbard. Maya Rudolph serves as executive producer, along with Dave Becky of 3 Arts and Natasha Lyonne and Danielle Renfrew Behrens for Animal Pictures. “Loot” is produced for Apple by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group.

“Sugar”
Premiere date: Friday, April 5

A new eight-episode drama starring Colin Farrell that will make its global debut with the first three episodes on Friday, April 5, 2024 on Apple TV+, followed by one new episode weekly every Friday. “Sugar” is a contemporary, unique take on one of the most popular and significant genres in literary, motion picture, and television history: the private detective story.

Academy Award-nominee Colin Farrell stars as John Sugar, an American private investigator on the heels of the mysterious disappearance of Olivia Siegel, the beloved granddaughter of legendary Hollywood producer Jonathan Siegel. As Sugar tries to determine what happened to Olivia, he will also unearth Siegel family secrets; some very recent, others long-buried.

The series also stars Kirby, Amy Ryan, James Cromwell, Anna Gunn, Dennis Boutsikaris, Nate Corddry, Sydney Chandler, and Alex Hernandez.

“Sugar” is created by Mark Protosevich who also executive produces. Audrey Chon and Kinberg executive produce for Genre Films, marking their second series with Apple TV+ under Kinberg’s overall deal, following “Invasion.” Sam Catlin, Scott Greenberg and Chip Vucelich also serve as executive producers. The series was directed by Fernando Meirelles, who also executive produces, and Adam Arkin.

“Girls State”
Premiere date: Friday, April 5

Following its widely celebrated and acclaimed debut at the Sundance Film Festival, “Girls State” makes its global premiere on Apple TV+ Friday, April 5.

Directed and produced by award-winning filmmakers Jesse Moss and Amanda McBaine, and Academy Award winner Davis Guggenheim’s Concordia Studio, the documentary follows 500 teenage girls from across Missouri gather for a week-long immersion in an elaborate laboratory of democracy, where they build a government from the ground up, campaign for office and form a Supreme Court to weigh the most divisive issues of the day. In “Girls State,” the country is now deeper into democratic crisis, with civil discourse and electoral politics increasingly fragile under ever more extreme political polarization. As questions of race and gender equality in a representational democracy reach a fever pitch, these young women confront the complicated paths women must navigate to build political power. Following a distinctly female perspective and filled with teenage insecurity, biting humour and a yearning for true friendship, the young leaders of “Girls State” win hearts and minds — not just elections.

“Girls State” is a Concordia Studio presentation of a Mile End Films production.

“Franklin”
Premiere date: Friday, April 12

“Franklin,” a new limited series starring and executive produced by Academy, Emmy and AFI Lifetime Achievement Award winner Michael Douglas, will premiere globally on Apple TV+ with the first three episodes of its eight-episode season on Friday, April 12, followed by one new episode every Friday through May 17, 2024.

Based on Pulitzer Prize winner Stacy Schiff’s book, “A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America,” “Franklin” explores the thrilling story of the greatest gamble of Benjamin Franklin’s career. In December 1776, Franklin is world famous for his electrical experiments, but his passion and power are put to the test when – as the fate of American independence hangs in the balance – he embarks on a secret mission to France.

At age 70, without any diplomatic training, Franklin convinced an absolute monarchy to underwrite America’s experiment in democracy. By virtue of his fame, charisma and ingenuity, Franklin outmaneuvered British spies, French informers and hostile colleagues to engineer the Franco-American alliance of 1778 and the peace treaty with England in 1783. The eight-year French mission stands as Franklin’s most vital service to his country, without which America could not have won the Revolution. Diplomats and historians still regard it as the greatest single tour of duty by an ambassador in our nation’s history.

The drama also stars Noah Jupe as Temple Franklin, Thibault de Montalembert as Comte de Vergennes, Daniel Mays as Edward Bancroft, Ludivine Sagnier as Madame Brillon, Eddie Marsan as John Adams, Assaad Bouab as Beaumarchais, Jeanne Balibar as Madame Helvetius and Theodore Pellerin as Marquis de Lafayette.

In addition to Douglas, the creative team includes Emmy and WGA Award-winning writer and executive producer Kirk Ellis (“John Adams”) and Emmy, WGA and Pulitzer Prize Award-nominated writer and executive producer Howard Korder (“Boardwalk Empire”). Emmy and DGA Award-winning director Tim Van Patten (“Masters of the Air,” “The Sopranos”) serves as director and executive producer. Richard Plepler executive produces through EDEN Productions, Tony Krantz through Flame Ventures, and Philippe Maigret and Mark Mostyn also executive produce. Stacy Schiff also serves as co-executive producer. “Franklin” is a co-production between ITV Studios America and Apple Studios.

“The Big Door Prize” – Season Two
Premiere date: Wednesday, April 24

Based on M.O. Walsh’s novel, “The Big Door Prize” season two follows the residents of Deerfield as the Morpho machine readies them for the mysterious “next stage.” As everyone’s potentials are exchanged for visions, new relationships form and new questions are asked. Dusty and Cass decide to take time apart while Trina (Amara) and Jacob (Fourlas) learn that they can shed their old labels. Giorgio and Izzy each find romance while Hana and Father Reuben attempt to discover the purpose of the machine. The small town is once again left questioning what they thought they knew about their lives, relationships, potentials, and about the Morpho itself.

“The Big Door Prize” features an ensemble cast led by Emmy Award winner Chris O’Dowd, Gabrielle Dennis, Ally Maki, Damon Gupton, Josh Segarra, Crystal Fox, Sammy Fourlas, Djouliet Amara, and is produced by Skydance Television and CJ ENM/Studio Dragon.

Read serves as showrunner and executive producer, alongside David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Matt Thunell for Skydance Television, Miky Lee, Kim Young-Kyu and Hyun Park for Studio Dragon, Bill Bost and Sarah Walker. Steven Tsuchida, Heather Jack, Jordan Canning, Satya Bhabha and Declan Lowney direct the series.

“The Big Door Prize” quickly rose to Rotten Tomatoes Certified Fresh status, and has been hailed as “thought-provoking,” “hilarious” and “one of the best comedy debuts in years.” Season two will premiere globally on Apple TV+ on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 with two episodes, followed by one new episode every Wednesday through June 19, 2024.

“Dark Matter”
Premiere date: Wednesday, May 8
“Dark Matter” is a sci-fi thriller series based on the blockbuster book by acclaimed, bestselling author Blake Crouch. The nine-episode series features an ensemble cast that includes Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Connelly, Alice Braga, Jimmi Simpson, Dayo Okeniyi and Oakes Fegley. “Dark Matter” makes its global debut on Apple TV+ on May 8, 2024, premiering with the first two episodes, followed by new episodes every Wednesday through June 26.

Hailed as one of the best sci-fi novels of the decade, “Dark Matter” is a story about the road not taken. The series will follow Jason Dessen (played by Edgerton), a physicist, professor, and family man who — one night while walking home on the streets of Chicago — is abducted into an alternate version of his life. Wonder quickly turns to nightmare when he tries to return to his reality amid the mind-bending landscape of lives he could have lived. In this labyrinth of realities, he embarks on a harrowing journey to get back to his true family and save them from the most terrifying, unbeatable foe imaginable: himself.

Crouch serves as executive producer, showrunner, and writer alongside executive producers Matt Tolmach and David Manpearl for Matt Tolmach Productions, and Joel Edgerton. “Dark Matter” is produced for Apple TV+ by Sony Pictures Television.

“Trying” – Season Four
Premiere date: Wednesday, May 22

“Trying,” the heartwarming critically acclaimed comedy starring BAFTA Award-nominee Esther Smith and SAG Award-nominee Rafe Spall, will return for a fourth season on Wednesday, May 22 on Apple TV+ with the first 2 episodes followed by new episodes every Wednesday through July 3. Apple is thrilled to share first look images from the upcoming season today.

In this exciting new season, we fast-forward six years, discovering that Nikki (Smith) and Jason (Spall) are experienced adopters having built a lovely little nuclear family, enriched by an extraordinary support network. However, as their teenage daughter, Princess (Rayner), starts to yearn for a connection with her birth mother, Nikki and Jason find themselves confronted with the ultimate test of their parenting skills. In addition to Smith and Spall, the cast includes Sian Brooke as Karen, BAFTA Award winner Darren Boyd as Scott and welcomes Scarlett Rayner as Princess and Cooper Turner as Tyler.

“Trying” is created, written and executive produced by Andy Wolton and executive produced by BAFTA Award nominee Josh Cole, Sam Pinnell and Chris Sussman. The series is produced by BBC Studios.

“Presumed Innocent”
Premiere date: Friday, June 14

“Presumed Innocent” is a new eight-episode limited series starring and executive produced by Jake Gyllenhaal, hailing from David E. Kelley and executive producer J.J. Abrams and is based on The New York Times bestselling novel of the same name by Scott Turow. The new thriller will make its global debut on Apple TV+, premiering the first two episodes on Friday, June 14 followed by a new episode every Friday through July 26.

Starring Jake Gyllenhaal in the lead role of chief deputy prosecutor Rusty Sabich, the series takes viewers on a gripping journey through the horrific murder that upends the Chicago Prosecuting Attorneys’ office when one of its own is suspected of the crime. The series explores obsession, sex, politics, and the power and limits of love, as the accused fights to hold his family and marriage together. The star-studded ensemble cast of the new thriller also includes Ruth Negga, Bill Camp, Elizabeth Marvel, Peter Sarsgaard, O-T Fagbenle and Renate Reinsve.

The series hails from Bad Robot Productions and David E. Kelley Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, where Bad Robot is under an overall deal. Abrams and Rachel Rusch Rich executive produce for Bad Robot. Kelley serves as showrunner and executive produces through David E. Kelley Productions alongside Matthew Tinker. Dustin Thomason, Sharr White and Gyllenhaal also serve as executive producers. Turow and Miki Johnson will serve as co-executive producers. Anne Sewitsky serves as executive producer and directs the first two episodes and episode eight. Emmy Award-winning director Greg Yaitanes is an executive producer and directs episodes three through seven.

“Land of Women”
Premiere date: Summer 2024

“Land of Women” is a new six-episode dramedy starring Golden Globe nominee Eva Longoria, who also serves as executive producer, alongside legendary film and television star Carmen Maura. The groundbreaking show is shot in both English and Spanish and will be available to watch in each language when it premieres this summer.

“Land of Women” stars Longoria as Gala, a New York empty nester whose life is turned upside down when her husband implicates the family in financial improprieties, and she is forced to flee the city alongside her aging mother (Maura) and college-age daughter. To escape the dangerous criminals to whom Gala’s now vanished husband is indebted, the three women hide in the same charming wine town in northern Spain that Gala’s mother fled 50 years ago, vowing never to return. The women seek to start anew and hope their identities will remain unknown, but gossip in the small town quickly spreads, unraveling their deepest family secrets and truths.

Inspired by award-winning author Sandra Barneda’s best selling novel of the same name, “Land of Women” is directed by Iris Award winner Carlos Sedes. Hailing from Apple Studios, the series is produced by Bambu Studios. The series is executive produced by showrunner Ramón Campos, Iris Award winner Teresa Fernández-Valdés, Ben Spector and Longoria via her award-winning production company UnbeliEVAble Entertainment, founded in 2005 by Longoria to produce film, television and documentaries.

“Acapulco” Season Three
Premiere date: Wednesday, May 1, 2024

“Acapulco,” the hit bilingual Apple Original comedy series starring and executive produced by Emmy and SAG-Award winner Eugenio Derbez, returns to Las Colinas for season three on Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

In season three of “Acapulco,” it’s time to reconcile past mistakes and exciting new beginnings. In the present story, older Maximo (Derbez) finds himself returning to a Las Colinas he no longer recognizes. While in 1985, younger Maximo (Enrique Arrizon) continues his climb up the ladder of success while potentially jeopardizing all the relationships he’s worked so hard to build.

In addition to Derbez and Arrizon, the returning “Acapulco” ensemble cast includes Fernando Carsa, Damián Alcázar, Camila Perez, Vanessa Bauche, Regina Reynoso, Raphael Alejandro, Jessica Collins, Rafael Cebrián, Carlos Corona and Regina Orozco, with recurring guest stars Cristo Fernandez (“Ted Lasso”) and Jaime Camil (“Schmigadoon”).

Hailing from Lionsgate Television, “Acapulco” is inspired by 3Pas Studios and Pantelion Films’ box office hit “How to Be A Latin Lover,” and is produced for Apple by Lionsgate Television, 3Pas Studios, Zihuatanejo Productions and The Tannenbaum Company. In addition to starring in the series, Derbez serves as executive producer alongside Ben Odell. The series is created by Austin Winsberg, Eduardo Cisneros and Jason Shuman. Winsberg also executive produces with Sam Laybourne who serves as showrunner and executive producer. Jaime Eliezer Karas, as well as Eric and Kim Tannenbaum also executive produce along with Jason Wang on behalf of The Tannenbaum Company.

#FIRSTLOOK: CRUNCHYROLL COLLABORATE WITH SAMSUNG ENABLING ACCESS FOR SMART TV USERS

Crunchyroll®, the ultimate home for anime worldwide, has announced a new collaboration with Samsung Electronics that will enable Samsung Smart TV users across the globe to easily discover and enjoy anime directly on their screens.

The Crunchyroll application is now available to Samsung users in the U.S., with users in other markets to gain access by the end of the week. With this launch, Samsung Smart TV users can access Crunchyroll’s extensive library of anime content, including over 46,000 episodes and movies, 3,300 Japanese music videos and concert specials, and the latest trending shows available on Crunchyroll on-demand, all with the option of subtitles or dubs across more than 12 local languages including English, Spanish (Latin America and Spain/Castilian), Portuguese, French, German, Arabic, Italian, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil. [NOTE – Local teams should emphasize local language for their readers.].

“Anime is one of the fastest-growing entertainment mediums worldwide. We’re thrilled to enhance access to Crunchyroll for Samsung’s Smart TV users. Samsung is providing a seamless experience for both dedicated anime fans and the anime-curious, allowing them to easily sign up and access their favorite anime directly on their TV screens,” said Kaliel Roberts, Chief Product Officer at Crunchyroll.

Crunchyroll boasts the world’s largest selection of anime titles, including My Hero Academia, JUJUTSU KAISEN, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Chainsaw Man, and Attack on Titan, as well as beloved classics such as Cowboy Bebop, and One Piece, among others.

Crunchyroll is available in more than 200 countries and territories, offering the deepest dedicated anime library and new simulcast series shortly after they premiere in Japan. Available on all 2017-2023 Samsung Smart TVs, users can easily find Crunchyroll in the Samsung Smart TV app store.

This new collaboration ensures that Samsung Smart TV users can enjoy a premium Crunchyroll streaming experience from the comfort of their own homes.

#FIRSTLOOK: BLUE MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL RE-BRANDS TO “BLUE MOUNTAIN FILM + MEDIA FESTIVAL”

Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival (BMFM) today announced several new enhancements and additions for its 2024 edition, and welcomes leading industry executives and digital creators to its Creative Forum. Extended to four days, the Creative Forum now has two parts, each sold separately: the original Film & TV forum on May 30 and May 31, 2024 and a new Digital Media two day event, on June 1 and June 2, 2024. A combo pass is also available for all four days. The newly rebranded BMFM promises to deliver an immersive experience for industry professionals and digital creators alike, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Blue Mountains.

Thursday, May 30 and Friday, May 31 will be dedicated to fostering interactive dialogues tailored for film and television creators, allowing participants to delve into the latest industry trends and innovations. Staple events like the Mountain Hike with a Filmmaker, Location Tour, and Networking Party on the Mountain will return this year.

Building on two successful editions of the Creative Forum, this year, in addition to welcoming a crop of Canada’s most innovative digital creators, BMFM boasts the attendance of some of Canada’s top professionals in the screen-based industries, who are ready to network with attendees and discuss present and future projects, and outline what they are currently in the market for. Attendees can enjoy Breakfast and Lunch Roundtables with decision-makers, as well as unique Gondola Meetings set in an intimate and outdoor setting just a short trip from the Greater Toronto Area.

“We knew that if we built it, they would come, and this year, they are indeed coming! After a few short years since launching the festival and the Creative Forum we are delighted to welcome these esteemed industry executives to the Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival,” said Helen duToit, Artistic Director of BMFM. “Their presence underscores the festival’s significance as a premier platform for networking, collaboration, and innovation in the film and media industry and we can’t wait for this year’s event to unfold.”

Industry Executives confirmed to attend include:

Kerry Appleyard, SVP Creative Affairs, Boat Rocker

Adam Feigan, Development Executive, Series and Movies, Incendo Media

Jocelyn Hamilton, President, TV eOne/Lionsgate EntOne Group

Tom Hastings, Head of Original Programming, Paramount+ Canada

Rachel Nelson, VP Original Programming and Head of Corus Studios

Michelle McCree, Executive in Charge of Production, CBC The Passionate Eye + Limited Doc Series

Mark Montefiore, CEO, New Metric Media

Virginia Rankin, Executive Producer, Scripted TV, Blink 49

Tara Woodbury, Director, Content, Netflix Canada

In an exciting collaboration, BMFM has partnered with the highly popular Buffer Festival as part of its innovative growth. On Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2, the Creative Forum will focus on Digital Media and will feature digital content panels, networking opportunities, and screenings, including a special Buffer Festival Screening, Buffer Talks and Live Creator Performances in the Village.

Digital Creators confirmed to attend include:

Tope Babalola, comedian, digital creator

Marie Stella, comedian, digital creator

Ryan Ng, documentarian, digital creator

Julie Nolke, actress, writer, digital creator

Neat Cool Okay, comedians, digital creators

“It was important to us a growing event to ensure we were inclusive of digital creators, and partnering with Buffer Festival to enhance the BMFM experience for our attendees was an easy decision,” said Patti Kendall, Managing Director, BMFM. “This collaboration brings together industry leaders and creators to inspire, educate, and entertain and they also know how to throw a party .”

BMFM aims to unveil unique networking and educational opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with senior decision-makers and producers in intimate settings that go beyond the ordinary. Early bird passes and special hotel rates starting from $179/night (plus applicable taxes) are now available for Creative Forum attendees.

For more information visit BMFM website.

#GRAMMYS: TAYLOR SWIFT, MILEY CYRUS, BILLIE EILISH AND SZA AMONG MAJOR WINNERS AT 2024 GRAMMYS

Taylor Swift made history at the 68th edition GRAMMYS last night, being the first Artist ever to take home Album of the Year four times! Prior, she had been tied with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon and Frank Sinatra. Her Album MIDNIGHTS, also took home Best Pop Vocal Album earlier in the broadcast from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Swift had been presented the top honour with a surprise appearance by Céline Dion whom after an extended absence navigating her diagnosis with Stiff Person Syndrome, appeared on-stage, exactly 27 years after winning the same award for her Falling into You album. This brings Swift‘s GRAMMY victory count to 14.

Other big winners on the broadcast were Miley Cyrus, notching a pair of wins with her global smash hit “Flowers“, taking both Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance. She was presented the latter by IMPACT Award winner Mariah Carey.

Billie Eilish also took home a pair of GRAMMYs with “What Was I Made For” (co-written with her brother Finneas) from the Barbie Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, nabbing Song of the Year and Best Song Written for Visual Media.

It was a big year for SZA also taking Pop Duo/Group Performance·with “Ghost in the Machine (with Phoebe Bridgers)”, R&B Song with “Snooze”, Urban Contemporary Album for SOS, bringing her total GRAMMY count to four.

Trevor Noah hosted the affair, which reached an emotionally-poignant moment with Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. taking to the stage to address the state of the world and Music as a string quartet featuring Arab, Israeli and Palestinian musicians. Mason said, “Now is the time for humanity to play together. To come together with empathy and love.”.

List of winners from the broadcast:

Album of the year
Jon Batiste – World Music Radio
Boygenius – The Record
Miley Cyrus – Endless Summer Vacation
Lana Del Rey – Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd
Janelle Monáe – The Age of Pleasure
Olivia Rodrigo – Guts
Taylor Swift – Midnights – WINNER
SZA – SOS

Record of the year
Jon Batiste – Worship
Boygenius – Not Strong Enough
Miley Cyrus – Flowers – WINNER
Billie Eilish – What Was I Made For? from Barbie: The Album
Victoria Monét – On My Mama
Olivia Rodrigo – Vampire
Taylor Swift – Anti-Hero
SZA – Kill Bill

Best new artist
Gracie Abrams
Fred again..
Ice Spice
Jelly Roll
Coco Jones
Noah Kahan
Victoria Monét – WINNER
The War and Treaty

Song of the year
Lana Del Rey – A&W
Taylor Swift – Anti-Hero
Jon Batiste – Butterfly
Dua Lipa – Dance the Night from Barbie
Miley Cyrus – Flowers
SZA – Kill Bill
Olivia Rodrigo – Vampire
Billie Eilish – What Was I Made For? from Barbie – WINNER

Best pop vocal album
Kelly Clarkson – Chemistry
Miley Cyrus – Endless Summer Vacation
Olivia Rodrigo – Guts
Ed Sheeran – “-” (Subtract)
Taylor Swift – Midnights – WINNER

Best R&B song

Halle – Angel
Robert Glasper featuring SiR and Alex Isley – Back to Love
Coco Jones – ICU
Victoria Monét – On My Mama
SZA – Snooze – WINNER

Best country album
Kelsea Ballerini – Rolling Up the Welcome Mat
Brothers Osborne – Brothers Osborne
Zach Bryan – Zach Bryan
Tyler Childers – Rustin’ in the Rain
Lainey Wilson – Bell Bottom Country – WINNER

Best música urbana album
Rauw Alejandro – Saturno
Karol G – Mañana Será Bonito – WINNER
Tainy – Data

Best pop solo performance
Miley Cyrus – Flowers – WINNER
Doja Cat – Paint the Town Red
Billie Eilish – What Was I Made For? from Barbie
Olivia Rodrigo – Vampire
Taylor Swift – Anti-Hero

Best progressive R&B album
6lack – Since I Have a Lover
Diddy – The Love Album: Off the Grid
Terrace Martin and James Fauntleroy – Nova
Janelle Monáe – The Age of Pleasure
SZA – SOS – WINNER

Best R&B performance
Chris Brown – Summer Too Hot
Robert Glasper featuring SiR and Alex Isley – Back to Love
Coco Jones – ICU – WINNER
Victoria Monét – How Does It Make You Feel
SZA – Kill Bill

Best folk album

Dom Flemons – Traveling Wildfire
The Milk Carton Kids – I Only See the Moon
Joni Mitchell – Joni Mitchell at Newport (Live) – WINNER
Nickel Creek – Celebrants
Old Crow Medicine Show – Jubilee
Paul Simon – Seven Psalms
Rufus Wainwright – Folkocracy

Producer of the year, non-classical
Jack Antonoff – WINNER
Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II
Hit-Boy
Metro Boomin
Daniel Nigro

Songwriter of the year, non-classical
Edgar Barrera
Jessie Jo Dillon
Shane McAnally
Theron Thomas – WINNER
Justin Tranter

Best pop duo/group performance
Miley Cyrus featuring Brandi Carlile – Thousand Miles
Lana Del Rey featuring Jon Batiste – Candy Necklace
Labrinth featuring Billie Eilish – Never Felt So Alone
Taylor Swift featuring Ice Spice – Karma
SZA featuring Phoebe Bridgers – Ghost in the Machine – WINNER

Best dance/electronic recording
Aphex Twin – Blackbox Life Recorder 21f
James Blake – Loading
Disclosure – Higher Than Ever Before
Romy and Fred again.. – Strong
Skrillex, Fred again.. and Flowdan – Rumble – WINNER

Best pop dance recording
David Guetta, Anne-Marie and Coi Leray – Baby Don’t Hurt Me
Calvin Harris featuring Ellie Goulding – Miracle
Kylie Minogue – Padam Padam – WINNER
Bebe Rexha and David Guetta – One in a Million
Troye Sivan – Rush

Best dance/electronic music album
James Blake – Playing Robots into Heaven
The Chemical Brothers – For That Beautiful Feeling
Fred again.. – Actual Life 3 (January 1 – September 9 2022) – WINNER
Kx5 – Kx5
Skrillex – Quest for Fire

Best traditional R&B performance

Babyface featuring Coco Jones – Simple
Kenyon Dixon – Lucky
Victoria Monét featuring Earth, Wind & Fire and Hazel Monét – Hollywood
PJ Morton featuring Susan Carol – Good Morning – WINNER
SZA – Love Language

Best R&B album
Babyface – Girls Night Out
Coco Jones – What I Didn’t Tell You (Deluxe)
Emily King – Special Occasion
Victoria Monét – Jaguar II – WINNER
Summer Walker – Clear 2: Soft Life EP

Best rap performance
Baby Keem featuring Kendrick Lamar – The Hillbillies
Black Thought – Love Letter

Drake & 21 Savage – Rich Flex
Killer Mike featuring André 3000, Future and Eryn Allen Kane – Scientists & Engineers – WINNER
Coi Leray – Players

Best melodic rap performance
Burna Boy featuring 21 Savage – Sittin’ on Top of the World
Doja Cat – Attention
Drake and 21 Savage – Spin Bout U
Lil Durk featuring J Cole – All My Life – WINNER
SZA – Low

Best rap song
Doja Cat – Attention
Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice featuring Aqua – Barbie World from Barbie: The Album
Lil Uzi Vert – Just Wanna Rock
Drake and 21 Savage – Rich Flex
Killer Mike featuring André 3000, Future and Eryn Allen Kane – Scientists & Engineers – WINNER

Best rap album

Drake and 21 Savage – Her Loss
Killer Mike – Michael – WINNER
Metro Boomin – Heroes & Villains
Nas – King’s Disease III
Travis Scott – Utopia

Best country solo performance
Tyler Childers – In Your Love
Brandy Clark – Buried
Luke Combs – Fast Car
Dolly Parton – The Last Thing on My Mind
Chris Stapleton – White Horse – WINNER

Best country song
Brandy Clark – Buried
Zach Bryan featuring Kacey Musgraves – I Remember Everything
Tyler Childers – In Your Love
Morgan Wallen – Last Night
Chris Stapleton – White Horse – WINNER

Best song written for visual media
Barbie World from Barbie the Album, Naija Gaston, Ephrem Louis Lopez Jr. and Onika Maraj, songwriters (Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice featuring Aqua)
Dance the Night from “Barbie the Album, Caroline Ailin, Dua Lipa, Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, songwriters (Dua Lipa)
I’m Just Ken from Barbie the Album, Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, songwriters (Ryan Gosling)
Lift Me Up from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever — Music From and Inspired By, Ryan Coogler, Ludwig Göransson, Robyn Fenty and Temilade Openiyi, songwriters (Rihanna)
What Was I Made For? from Barbie the Album, Billie Eilish O’Connell and Finneas O’Connell, songwriters (Billie Eilish) — WINNER

Best comedy album
Trevor Noah – I Wish You Would
Wanda Sykes – I’m an Entertainer
Chris Rock – Selective Outrage
Sarah Silverman – Someone You Love
Dave Chappelle – What’s in a Name? – WINNER

Best global music album
Susana Baca – Epifanías
Bokanté – History
Burna Boy – I Told Them…
Davido – Timeless
Shakti – This Moment – WINNER

Best African music performance
Asake and Olamide – Amapiano
Burna Boy – City Boys
Davido featuring Musa Keys – Unavailable
Ayra Starr – Rush
Tyla – Water – WINNER

Best musical theater album

Kimberly Akimbo
Parade
Shucked
Some Like It Hot – WINNER
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Best alternative music album
Arctic Monkeys – The Car
Boygenius – The Record – WINNER
Lana Del Rey – Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd
Gorillaz – Cracker Island
PJ Harvey – I Inside the Old Year Dying

Best alternative music performance
Alvvays – Belinda Says
Arctic Monkeys – Body Paint
boygenius – Cool About It
Lana Del Rey – A&W
Paramore – This Is Why – WINNER

Best rock album
Foo Fighters – But Here We Are
Greta Van Fleet – Starcatcher
Metallica – 72 Seasons
Paramore – This Is Why – WINNER
Queens of the Stone Age – In Times New Roman…

Best rock song
The Rolling Stones – Angry
Olivia Rodrigo – Ballad of a Homeschooled Girl
Queens of the Stone Age – Emotion Sickness
Boygenius – Not Strong Enough – WINNER
Foo Fighters – Rescued

Best metal performance

Disturbed – Bad Man
Ghost – Phantom of the Opera
Metallica – 72 Seasons – WINNER
Slipknot – Hive Mind
Spiritbox – Jaded

Best rock performance
Arctic Monkeys – Sculptures of Anything Goes
Black Pumas – More Than a Love Song
Boygenius – Not Strong Enough – WINNER
Foo Fighters – Rescued
Metallica – Lux Æterna

Best country duo/group performance
Dierks Bentley featuring Billy Strings – High Note
Brothers Osborne – Nobody’s Nobody
Zach Bryan featuring Kacey Musgraves – I Remember Everything – WINNER
Vince Gill and Paul Franklin – Kissing Your Picture (Is So Cold)
Jelly Roll with Lainey Wilson – Save Me
Carly Pearce featuring Chris Stapleton – We Don’t Fight Anymore

Complete list of winners here.

#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM CENTRE ANNOUNCE SIX WRITERS FOR COMEDY STORY ROOM

The Canadian Film Centre (CFC) is pleased to announce the six writers selected to be part of the Comedy Story Room Intensive, which begins today. Presented by Bell Media, the Comedy Story Room Intensive is a professional training initiative for emerging and mid-level writers to support their career growth with invaluable mentorship from an experienced showrunner and on-the-job training.The Comedy Story Room Intensive has been designed for writers looking to gain experience in comedy writing and engage in a collaborative series writing room. This full time, 12 week program is for those who identify as Black, Indigenous or People of Colour to open opportunities for underrepresented voices and support the future of diverse storytelling. This intensive will put the writers through the paces of a comedy room model with professional turnaround expectations.“We’re so pleased to welcome these gifted writers to be part of the Comedy Story Room Intensive and grateful for Bell Media’s continued support in offering this invaluable opportunity to fresh new voices in the industry,” said Kathryn Emslie, Executive Lead, Programs – Talent Development and Content Creation, CFC. “We’re also lucky to have an extraordinary mentor, Anthony Q. Farrell, lead this comedy story room to help elevate these writers as they move into the next stages of their careers.” The intensive will provide a team-based approach to a writers’ room under the mentorship of experienced executive producer, comedian, writer and actor Anthony Q. Farrell. Farrell was named Playback’s 2021 Showrunner of the Year and received Writers Guild of Canada’s 2022 Showrunner Award. He will guide the writers and lead the story room as showrunner as they help develop his latest comedy series Truck U.“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with the CFC and we couldn’t think of a better mentor for this group than Anthony Q. Farrell who will help bring this distinctive, tailored Comedy program to life,” said Carlyn Klebuc, General Manager, Original Programming, Bell Media. “Building on Bell Media’s commitment to tell authentic Canadian stories, we hope this program serves to catapult the careers of this talented group of writers so they may continue bringing fresh and unique voices to the genre and landscape.”“Collaborating with fellow comedy writers is one of my favourite things to do. Working towards a creative goal with a group of funny, intelligent people is a recipe for joy. I’m really looking forward to developing this series with these six talented scribes,” shared ​​Anthony Q. Farrell. “The Canadian Film Centre has lifted the careers of so many great Canadian artists. I am truly honoured that they’ve asked me to help them in their pursuit of a stronger, more diverse entertainment industry.”

The 2024 Comedy Story Room Intensive Participants:

Mostafa Shaker (He/They) is an Egyptian-Canadian comedian, writer, actor and producer. He expresses his comedic voice through projects that reflect his experience as a queer Arab immigrant. He’s appeared in over 40 theatre, film and TV projects. As a writer, he’s been part of the Netflix BANFF Diversity of Voices Program, BIPOC TV & Film Showrunners Program, NSI Series Incubator and Reel World’s E20 Program. Mostafa is in development with Crave and Sphere Media on a half hour comedy inspired by his own life and with OMNI Film on a half hour family comedy.What Comedy Series would you have loved to have been in the story room for and why?Superstore – not only did I love what the show had to say, and the specificity of the characters, it’s also my type of humour, funny-forward with a lot of heart.

Della Haddock (She/Her/Hers) is a writer, improv and sketch comedian, story editor, and producer, who has performed at Just For Laughs Vancouver, the Vancouver Improv Festival, and the Vancouver Fringe Festival. She is a member of the improv troupe ‘Hot Snack’, and she can also be seen as an alumni House Team performer at Blind Tiger Comedy. She has been on the programming committee of the Vancouver Short Film Festival, a CMPA Diverse Producers mentee, a Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative fellow, and was one of the six screenwriters selected to participate in the 2022 Whistler Film Festival Screenwriters Lab.What Comedy Series would you have loved to have been in the story room for and why?Broad City exemplifies how an honest portrayal of flawed and brazen women still feels surprising and fresh in all its iterations – and I hope audiences never grow tired of that! This show created a language of humour around two unique leading voices and I, a desperate fanatic, would have paid to be in that room if only to witness the jokes that never made it to the page.

Aditi Raina (She/Her/Hers) is an data analyst turned comedy writer who grew up in India and lives in Toronto. Most recently, she was a writer for Abroad Season 2 on OMNI, a sketch comedy show about Canadian immigrants. She is a contributor for Reductress and The Beaverton. When not writing, she is busy overthinking about how she isn’t writing.What Comedy Series would you have loved to have been in the story room for and why?I would have loved to be in the Story Room for Broad City. I love writing about female friendships and absurdities of everyday life. The dream is to write something as relatable, silly and insane as Broad City, no pressure!

Qaseem Fazal (He/Him/His) is a Muslim, gay, comedy writer. He recently finished working as a Jr. Story Editor on the second season of Family Law. Qaseem is also a graduate of the Pacific Screenwriting Program, The Reel World E20 Program and The Warner Bros. Discovery Access Canada: Mid-Level Writers Room. His queer coming-of-age comedy series titled What’s Normal Anyway? is currently in development with Amaze Film + Television. Qaseem loves showcasing queer stories from underrepresented communities. His hope is that his stories inspire a new generation of youth to never be afraid of their race or who they chose to love.What Comedy Series would you have loved to have been in the story room for and why?Never Have I Ever because It’s a diverse comedy that normalizes the experience of immigrant south Asians in a way that recognizes their existence. Also, it’s such a funny show and to have my jokes included would have been a dream come true.

Marushka Jessica Almeida  (​​They/Them/Theirs) is a Middle East born and raised, South Asian writer/producer, ex-accountant, former music-business-exec and many other failed careers their parents are too depressed to list. Currently, they’re an executive producer/co-creator on the upcoming Get Up, Aisha (CBC). They have written/story edited on Made for TV (Crave) Homeschooled (CBC), Near or Far (Wattpad, CBC), Streams Flow From a River (Superchannel) and other Canadian comedies. When Marushka isn’t swimming in a whirlpool of existential dread they can be found complaining about why public nap areas don’t exist.What Comedy Series would you have loved to have been in the story room for and why?I would have killed to be in the room for the Comeback. Top tier cringe comedy? character journeys that were decades in the making? And our lord and saviour Lisa Kudrow!?

Nattasha Shrestha (She/Her/Hers) is a Southeast Asian storyteller who writes dramedy narratives that cut close to the bone. Having been raised internationally in over five countries and continents, she brings a distinct, sharp and robust POV in screenwriting, seeking to explore the intersection between grief and comedy. After graduating from the University of British Columbia and the Vancouver Film School, she’s been a story editor for multiple shows and festivals, a writer for Netflix’s Womens in Animation Program and the winner of the VAFF Bell Media Series Development Competition. She is currently in development for three of her own original shows, all in pursuit to celebrate unusual and underrepresented stories on screen.What Comedy Series would you have loved to have been in the story room for and why?I always thought I would’ve loved to have been in the storyroom for Sex Education. I think it’s one of those shows that portrays comedy in a way that’s both nostalgic and also uncomfortable in its naked (literally) portrayal of deeply flawed people. That intersection of funniness and unsettling vulnerability is what I want to explore, both as a viewer and a writer alike.

Anthony Q. Farrell (He/Him) is a BAFTA-winning, Emmy-nominated writer/producer who has worked in Canada, the US, and the UK for over 20 years. He recently served as the creator, showrunner and executive producer of CTV’s half-hour comedy Shelved. He has served as executive producer and showrunner of CBC’s Run the Burbs, Overlord and the Underwoods, The Parker Andersons/Amelia Parker, and the BAFTA-winning Secret Life of Boys. Anthony’s writing credits also include NBC’s The Office, Nickelodeon’s The Thundermans, and Little Mosque on the Prairie. Anthony was honoured as Showrunner of the Year at the Writers Guild of Canada Awards in 2022, after receiving the same title from Playback in 2021.

For more information, visit cfccreates.com.

#BOXOFFICE: “ARGYLLE” BEGUILES ITS WAY TO #1

ARGYLLE debuts at top spot this weekend taking $16.5 million from 3,100 theatres for Apple Original Films/Universal Pictures. The star-studded Spy Comedy which boasts a Cast that includes Henry Cavill, Bryce Dallas Howard, Ariana DeBose, Dua Lipa, Sam Rockwell and more, gets 34% on the Tomatometer.

MEAN GIRLS is in second, which snaps its three week win streak, with $4.6M from 3,544 theatres for Paramount Pictures. Its total now comes to $67 million.

WONKA is in third with $4.4 million from 3,014 theatres, bringing it past $200 million for Warner Bros.

In fourth is BEEKEEPER with $4.3M from 3,337 theatres for VVS Films/Amazon MGM Studios, taking it to $48.3 million domestically.

MIGRATION rounds it all out with $4 million, taking it to $106 million for Universal Pictures.

#SPOTTED: ADAM DIMARCO, ATTICUS MITCHELL, EDGE, STEPHAN JAMES, SHAMIER ANDERSON & MORE AT “HOUSE OF STARS” BALL HOCKEY CHARITY GAME

It’s all about All Stars! The Toronto Maple Leafs hosted their first ever House of Stars, a celebrity ball hockey game in support of House of Hockey. The star-studded ball hockey game held at MLSE Launchpad, where a special pop-up activationw as created for the event, bringing-in Maple Leafs alumni, celebrities and special guests. This affair is a pre-cursor to NHL All Star game festivities taking place in Toronto this weekend!

The event was to raise funds for House of Hockey presented by Tim Hortons, a ball hockey league created by Maple Leafs and drew house to give youth access to free hockey programming by addressing the barriers keeping youth on the sidelines. More here.

Among the stars in attendance were Murda Beatz, Stephan James, Shamier Anderson, Edge (Adam Copeland), Adam DiMarco, Atticus Mitchell, Isaiah Mustafa, Johnny Orlando and more.

Some Snaps:

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(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

#FIRSTLOOK: “BACK TO BLACK” TRAILER

We miss Amy Winehouse so much! Today we get a first look at the official Trailer for her Biopic, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson!

Director: Sam Taylor-Johnson
Writers: Matt Greenhalgh
Executive Producers: Sam Taylor-Johnson, Anna Marsh, Ron Halpern, Joe Naftalin
Producers: Alison Owen, p.g.a., Debra Hayward, Nicky Kentish-Barnes
Cast: Marisa Abela, Jack O’Connell, Eddie Marsan and Lesley Manville
Story: A behind-the-scenes glimpse into Amy Winehouse’s early rise to fame and the release of her groundbreaking studio album, Back to Black. Inspired by Amy’s deeply personal and honest lyrics, the film is an unapologetic look at the woman behind the phenomenon and the tumultuous relationship at the center of one of the most legendary albums of all time.

Focus Features and Universal Pictures Canada will release BACK TO BLACK In Theatres Nationwide on Friday, May 17, 2024.

(Photo/video credit: Focus Features)

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER CODE FOR “CODE 8: PART II”

Proudly-Canadian, a new Trailer for CODE 8: PART II, starring cousins Robbie and Stephen Amell, has just been released!

Synopsis:

In this sequel to Code 8, Connor (Robbie Amell) is out of prison and working as a janitor at a community center, having cut ties with his former criminal associate Garrett (Stephen Amell). Connor’s attempt at staying out of trouble is destroyed when he’s forced to help 14-year-old Pav (Sirena Gulamgaus) escape from a pack of corrupt officers led by Sergeant King (Alex Mallari Jr.). King uses the newly launched robotic K9’s to track Pav down, while Connor finds himself once again reaching out to Garrett and his crew for help, but can he trust the man who landed him in prison in the first place?

(Photo/video credit: Netflix Canada)

#FIRSTLOOK: “SQUID GAME” SEASON 2 CLIP

A heart-pounding clip from Season 2 also debuted in the “Next on Netflix” trailer this morning, showing Gi-hun making a critical decision. Portrayed by Lee Jung-jae, who won “Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series” at the 74th Primetime Emmys®, Gi-hun abandons his US plans after a mysterious call and embarks on a chase with a motive.

The new season will also welcome other beloved characters back like Front Man (Lee Byung-hun) and Recruiter (Gong Yoo). Adding to the intrigue, a new character played by Park Gyu-young makes her debut, sparking curiosity about the new character.

ABOUT THE SERIES

Squid Game took the world by storm upon its 2021 premiere, quickly becoming one of Netflix’s most-watched series around the world. Garnering over 1.65 billion viewing hours watched by more than 142 million households in its first 28 days, the series took the #1 spot in “Today’s Top 10” across 94 countries. Beyond its massive viewership, the series earned prestigious awards such as the Gotham Awards’ “Breakthrough Series,” the “AFI Special Award,” and 6 Primetime Emmy Awards, a first for a local language series. Recognised for its cinematic quality, Squid Game also received nominations at the Golden Globe Awards and the Critics’ Choice Awards. The series was lauded for its refreshing social commentary of a modern society fraught with intense competition, all told against the backdrop of nostalgic childhood games, turning all things Squid Game — its art, music, fashion, and games — into a global cultural phenomenon.

WRITER/DIRECTOR: Hwang Dong-hyuk
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Kim Ji-yeon
PRODUCED BY: Firstman Studio
KEY CAST: Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Wi Ha-jun, Park Gyu-young, Lee Jin-uk, Park Sung-hoon, Yang Dong-geun, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Choi Seung-hyun, Roh Jae-won, Jo Yuri, Won Ji-an, Gong Yoo (special appearance)
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Korea