Larry David’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” aired its series finale after 24 years and 12 seasons on Sunday, when it reached 1.1 million viewers.
Calculated from a combination of Nielsen’s measurement of linear viewers on the HBO cable channel and Warner Bros. Discovery’s own data regarding streams on Max, this marks the highest viewership of any episode of Season 12, which debuted on Feb. 4.
The finale also drew the “Curb Your Enthusiasm’s” largest audience since 2020, when the Season 10 finale hit 1.4 million viewers. That episode predated the launch of Max, and instead streamed on now defunct platforms HBO Go and HBO Now, as well on cable.
Titled “No Lessons Learned,” the episode concluded an arc that began with the Season 12 premiere, wherein Larry was arrested for giving water to a woman in line to vote in Atlanta. The finale sees Larry and his entourage through his trial, mirroring the 1998 courtroom finale of “Seinfeld,...
Calculated from a combination of Nielsen’s measurement of linear viewers on the HBO cable channel and Warner Bros. Discovery’s own data regarding streams on Max, this marks the highest viewership of any episode of Season 12, which debuted on Feb. 4.
The finale also drew the “Curb Your Enthusiasm’s” largest audience since 2020, when the Season 10 finale hit 1.4 million viewers. That episode predated the launch of Max, and instead streamed on now defunct platforms HBO Go and HBO Now, as well on cable.
Titled “No Lessons Learned,” the episode concluded an arc that began with the Season 12 premiere, wherein Larry was arrested for giving water to a woman in line to vote in Atlanta. The finale sees Larry and his entourage through his trial, mirroring the 1998 courtroom finale of “Seinfeld,...
- 4/10/2024
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
This article contains spoilers about the 2024 Broadway production of “An Enemy of the People.”
There will likely be few scenes this Broadway season more harrowing than the climax of Sam Gold’s “An Enemy of the People,” in which a town hall meeting called by Dr. Thomas Stockmann devolves into verbal and physical assault. In the aftermath of the scene’s brutality against the Norwegian doctor, who warns his community that their waters are contaminated, actor Jeremy Strong emerges from a crouched position on the stage floor in the Circle in the Square Theatre, where he has huddled and shrunk his body down to withstand a torrent of blows. It is a visceral moment of live theatre, one that the actor commits to wholeheartedly and that the Tony Awards should nominate.
What leads up to that frightening display of ignorance and animus is made all the richer by Strong’s performance.
There will likely be few scenes this Broadway season more harrowing than the climax of Sam Gold’s “An Enemy of the People,” in which a town hall meeting called by Dr. Thomas Stockmann devolves into verbal and physical assault. In the aftermath of the scene’s brutality against the Norwegian doctor, who warns his community that their waters are contaminated, actor Jeremy Strong emerges from a crouched position on the stage floor in the Circle in the Square Theatre, where he has huddled and shrunk his body down to withstand a torrent of blows. It is a visceral moment of live theatre, one that the actor commits to wholeheartedly and that the Tony Awards should nominate.
What leads up to that frightening display of ignorance and animus is made all the richer by Strong’s performance.
- 4/2/2024
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
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Tim Robinson is bringing his beloved sketch comedy show “I Think You Should Leave” to the stage.
The comedian has announced a live tour inspired by his hit Netflix show with a limited-run of 2024 dates starting in New York City’s Beacon Theatre on April 2. He’ll go on to make stops in Chicago, Detroit, Nashville, Houston, Fort Worth, Phoenix, San Diego and San Francisco before a final show at Los Angeles’s Greek Theater on May 11.
Robinson will be joined by co-creator Zach Kanin for all dates, with a slew of surprise guests to be announced. Tickets for all announced dates go on sale Friday, Feb. 9 at 10 a.m. local time with pre-sales starting Feb. 7 at 3 p.m.
Buy Now: I Think You Should Leave Tour
The series,...
Tim Robinson is bringing his beloved sketch comedy show “I Think You Should Leave” to the stage.
The comedian has announced a live tour inspired by his hit Netflix show with a limited-run of 2024 dates starting in New York City’s Beacon Theatre on April 2. He’ll go on to make stops in Chicago, Detroit, Nashville, Houston, Fort Worth, Phoenix, San Diego and San Francisco before a final show at Los Angeles’s Greek Theater on May 11.
Robinson will be joined by co-creator Zach Kanin for all dates, with a slew of surprise guests to be announced. Tickets for all announced dates go on sale Friday, Feb. 9 at 10 a.m. local time with pre-sales starting Feb. 7 at 3 p.m.
Buy Now: I Think You Should Leave Tour
The series,...
- 2/7/2024
- by Anna Tingley
- Variety Film + TV
Matthew Perry died from “the acute effects of ketamine,” according to the toxicology report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. The exact method of intake is unknown. Contributing factors in the “Friends” actor’s death included drowning, coronary artery disease and the effects of buprenorphine (used to treat opioid use disorder). The manner of death was ruled an accident.
Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy prior to his death, reportedly for depression and anxiety. The toxicology report adds: “At the high levels of ketamine found in his postmortem blood specimens, the main lethal effects would be from both cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression.”
Perry died on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023. Authorities arrived at his home in Los Angeles around 4 p.m. and found him in a hot tub, according to the Los Angeles Times. There were no signs of foul play or drugs at the scene. First responders...
Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy prior to his death, reportedly for depression and anxiety. The toxicology report adds: “At the high levels of ketamine found in his postmortem blood specimens, the main lethal effects would be from both cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression.”
Perry died on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023. Authorities arrived at his home in Los Angeles around 4 p.m. and found him in a hot tub, according to the Los Angeles Times. There were no signs of foul play or drugs at the scene. First responders...
- 12/15/2023
- by Zack Sharf and Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
Max is honoring late “Friends” star Matthew Perry, who died on Saturday at the age of 54, with a tribute card at the start of each season of the sitcom on the streaming platform.
“In memory of Matthew Perry 1969-2023,” reads the card, which flashes on screen for approximately five seconds before the iconic “Friends” opening sequence. All 10 seasons of “Friends” are currently available to stream on Max.
Perry, best known for his role as the hilarious Chandler Bing on the series, was found dead in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home, as law enforcement sources told the L.A. Times. No foul play was suspected.
Perry’s death resulted in an outpouring of remembrances from Hollywood, including from “Friends” co-creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane and executive producer Kevin Bright.
“We are shocked and deeply, deeply saddened by our beloved friend Matthew’s passing. It still seems impossible. All...
“In memory of Matthew Perry 1969-2023,” reads the card, which flashes on screen for approximately five seconds before the iconic “Friends” opening sequence. All 10 seasons of “Friends” are currently available to stream on Max.
Perry, best known for his role as the hilarious Chandler Bing on the series, was found dead in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home, as law enforcement sources told the L.A. Times. No foul play was suspected.
Perry’s death resulted in an outpouring of remembrances from Hollywood, including from “Friends” co-creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane and executive producer Kevin Bright.
“We are shocked and deeply, deeply saddened by our beloved friend Matthew’s passing. It still seems impossible. All...
- 10/30/2023
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
Tributes poured in from all corners of Hollywood when the news came of Matthew Perry’s death at age 54 on Saturday. The actor, best known for starring as Chandler Bing in “Friends,” was found dead in a hot tub at his home in Los Angeles.
Many of the sentiments posted online Saturday pointed to Perry as the heart of the humor in “Friends.” As written in a tribute by Variety‘s chief correspondent Daniel D’Addario, “the character’s caustic wit, as performed by a master comic actor, presented as nothing more and nothing less than observational humor about his friends: One degree harsher and it would have tanked the show, one degree softer and it wouldn’t have landed.”
Several also referenced Perry’s struggle with alcoholism and drug addiction, which he discussed publicly throughout his career, especially in his memoir “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing.”
“We are shocked and deeply,...
Many of the sentiments posted online Saturday pointed to Perry as the heart of the humor in “Friends.” As written in a tribute by Variety‘s chief correspondent Daniel D’Addario, “the character’s caustic wit, as performed by a master comic actor, presented as nothing more and nothing less than observational humor about his friends: One degree harsher and it would have tanked the show, one degree softer and it wouldn’t have landed.”
Several also referenced Perry’s struggle with alcoholism and drug addiction, which he discussed publicly throughout his career, especially in his memoir “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing.”
“We are shocked and deeply,...
- 10/29/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
In the eyes of George R.R. Martin, HBO’s “Six Feet Under” sits atop the Iron Throne of television finales.
After Vanity Fair published an article titled “25 Perfect TV Episodes From the Last 25 Years,” which included the Martin-written “Blackwater” from “Game of Thrones,” the “Song of Ice and Fire” author took to his Not a Blog website to weigh in on some of his favorite episodes of television.
“If I had to pick one episode that was even more perfect than all the others on the list… it would have to be the final episode of ‘Six Feet Under,'” Martin wrote on his blog. “I liked that series well enough, though I cannot say I loved it as much as I loved ‘Rome’ or ‘Deadwood’ or ‘Fargo’ or a few other shows missing from the list, but that last episode was far and away the best finale in the entire history of television,...
After Vanity Fair published an article titled “25 Perfect TV Episodes From the Last 25 Years,” which included the Martin-written “Blackwater” from “Game of Thrones,” the “Song of Ice and Fire” author took to his Not a Blog website to weigh in on some of his favorite episodes of television.
“If I had to pick one episode that was even more perfect than all the others on the list… it would have to be the final episode of ‘Six Feet Under,'” Martin wrote on his blog. “I liked that series well enough, though I cannot say I loved it as much as I loved ‘Rome’ or ‘Deadwood’ or ‘Fargo’ or a few other shows missing from the list, but that last episode was far and away the best finale in the entire history of television,...
- 8/31/2023
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
A lot has happened in the Sex and the City Universe since HBO’s reboot “And Just Like That…” premiered last summer. After the show killed off Mr. Big with a Peloton, Carrie took hold of her new life by starting a podcast. Meanwhile, Charlotte threw her non-binary child a “they-mitzvah” and, perhaps in the most meme-worthy storyline of the season, Miranda realized her queerness and began dating Che Diez, who introduces themself in the first episode as a “queer non-binary Mexican-Irish diva.”
But the most exciting scene of the reboot will take place tonight, when Kim Cattrall makes her much anticipated revival as the iconic Samantha Jones. In the scene, Samantha, who in the show has moved to London, will have a phone conversation with Carrie.
The finale of “And Just Like That…...
A lot has happened in the Sex and the City Universe since HBO’s reboot “And Just Like That…” premiered last summer. After the show killed off Mr. Big with a Peloton, Carrie took hold of her new life by starting a podcast. Meanwhile, Charlotte threw her non-binary child a “they-mitzvah” and, perhaps in the most meme-worthy storyline of the season, Miranda realized her queerness and began dating Che Diez, who introduces themself in the first episode as a “queer non-binary Mexican-Irish diva.”
But the most exciting scene of the reboot will take place tonight, when Kim Cattrall makes her much anticipated revival as the iconic Samantha Jones. In the scene, Samantha, who in the show has moved to London, will have a phone conversation with Carrie.
The finale of “And Just Like That…...
- 8/23/2023
- by Anna Tingley
- Variety Film + TV
Daniel D’Addario is stepping into a new role at Variety.
The journalist, who was brought on as chief television critic in 2018, has been named chief correspondent for the magazine, co-editors-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh and Cynthia Littleton announced. In his new position, D’Addario will be writing substantial features as well as commentary for print and online. He will continue to work with editor-at-large Kate Aurthur.
“I am so excited to try new kinds of writing for Variety,” D’Addario says. “I love thinking like a critic, but bringing my perspective to bear on narrative journalism after getting out in the field and talking to people represents an exciting opportunity, and a fun challenge.”
In his time covering television for Variety, D’Addario has won multiple Los Angeles Press Club Awards, including prizes for political commentary for his coverage of the Brett Kavanaugh confirmation hearings and “The Lincoln Project.” He has served...
The journalist, who was brought on as chief television critic in 2018, has been named chief correspondent for the magazine, co-editors-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh and Cynthia Littleton announced. In his new position, D’Addario will be writing substantial features as well as commentary for print and online. He will continue to work with editor-at-large Kate Aurthur.
“I am so excited to try new kinds of writing for Variety,” D’Addario says. “I love thinking like a critic, but bringing my perspective to bear on narrative journalism after getting out in the field and talking to people represents an exciting opportunity, and a fun challenge.”
In his time covering television for Variety, D’Addario has won multiple Los Angeles Press Club Awards, including prizes for political commentary for his coverage of the Brett Kavanaugh confirmation hearings and “The Lincoln Project.” He has served...
- 8/21/2023
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Jessica Chastain and Oscar Isaac set social media on fire in 2021 due to their electric chemistry on the Venice Film Festival red carpet for HBO’s “Scenes From a Marriage.” The devastating limited series, based on Ingmar Bergman’s 1973 miniseries of the same name, cast the two actors as a married couple going through a grueling divorce. Chastain told Vanity Fair her and Isaac’s longtime friendship hasn’t been the same since.
“‘Scenes From a Marriage’ was very tough,” Chastain said. “And I love Oscar [Isaac], but the reality is, our friendship has never quite been the same. We’re going to be okay, but after that, I was like, I need a little bit of a breather. There was so much ‘I love you, I hate you’ in that series.”
“But there’s so much joy in what I get to do,” the Oscar winner added. “There’s a lot of catharsis.
“‘Scenes From a Marriage’ was very tough,” Chastain said. “And I love Oscar [Isaac], but the reality is, our friendship has never quite been the same. We’re going to be okay, but after that, I was like, I need a little bit of a breather. There was so much ‘I love you, I hate you’ in that series.”
“But there’s so much joy in what I get to do,” the Oscar winner added. “There’s a lot of catharsis.
- 8/2/2023
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
The musical romantic comedy series “Up Here” has been canceled after just one season at Hulu, Variety has learned.
The series’ one and only season debuted on Hulu back on March 24. It was originally ordered to series at the streamer in January 2022.
The series boasted an all-star lineup behind the camera. Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the songwriters of “Frozen” and “Frozen 2” wrote original songs for the series and executive produced, while Steven Levenson, who wrote the book for “Dear Evan Hansen,” and veteran TV writer Danielle Sanchez-Witzel served as writers and executive producers.
Thomas Kail, who previously directed Broadway shows like “Hamilton” and “In the Heights,” directed and executive produced under his Old 320 Sycamore Productions banner. Jennifer Todd of Old 320 Sycamore also executive produced. 20th Television was the studio. Old 320 Sycamore is currently under an overall deal at the studio.
Mae Whitman and Carlos Valdes led the cast,...
The series’ one and only season debuted on Hulu back on March 24. It was originally ordered to series at the streamer in January 2022.
The series boasted an all-star lineup behind the camera. Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, the songwriters of “Frozen” and “Frozen 2” wrote original songs for the series and executive produced, while Steven Levenson, who wrote the book for “Dear Evan Hansen,” and veteran TV writer Danielle Sanchez-Witzel served as writers and executive producers.
Thomas Kail, who previously directed Broadway shows like “Hamilton” and “In the Heights,” directed and executive produced under his Old 320 Sycamore Productions banner. Jennifer Todd of Old 320 Sycamore also executive produced. 20th Television was the studio. Old 320 Sycamore is currently under an overall deal at the studio.
Mae Whitman and Carlos Valdes led the cast,...
- 7/28/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Variety won 14 first-place awards Sunday night at the Los Angeles Press Club’s 65th annual SoCal Journalism Awards, more than twice as many as any other entertainment publication.
The 14 awards represented a historic high for Variety at the SoCal Journalism Awards, topping the previous best of 12 first-place prizes the magazine earned in 2018. Variety came into Sunday’s ceremony with a record 96 nominations, representing work published online and in print during the 2022 calendar year.
The awards were handed out during a gala dinner attended by hundreds in the historic Crystal Ballroom at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.
Several staffers won dual honors. Owen Gleiberman, Variety‘s chief film critic, won best obituary/appreciation for a look back at actor William Hurt, plus best online arts commentary for the column “Is ‘Tar’ Rooting for or Against Cate Blanchett’s Superstar Predator Conductor?” Chris Willman, senior writer and chief music critic,...
The 14 awards represented a historic high for Variety at the SoCal Journalism Awards, topping the previous best of 12 first-place prizes the magazine earned in 2018. Variety came into Sunday’s ceremony with a record 96 nominations, representing work published online and in print during the 2022 calendar year.
The awards were handed out during a gala dinner attended by hundreds in the historic Crystal Ballroom at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.
Several staffers won dual honors. Owen Gleiberman, Variety‘s chief film critic, won best obituary/appreciation for a look back at actor William Hurt, plus best online arts commentary for the column “Is ‘Tar’ Rooting for or Against Cate Blanchett’s Superstar Predator Conductor?” Chris Willman, senior writer and chief music critic,...
- 6/26/2023
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Lisa Ann Walter is hoping for a first-ever Emmy bid as season two of “Abbott Elementary” looks to up its awards success from the first outing, which won three Emmys. ABC’s mockumentary season comes from multi-hyphenate Quinta Brunson, who stars in the show as well as creates it, writes it, and produces it. It follows a group of public school teachers who work in one of the worst schools in the country but their love for teaching makes them stay to try and better the school and its students. The show is full of wonderful comedic performances, not least from “The Parent Trap” star Walter.
Walter plays second-grade teacher Melissa Schemmenti, who is close with Sheryl Lee Ralph‘s Barbara. Both teachers are veterans at Abbott Elementary, while some of Melissa’s connections outside of school are deemed questionable. Walter has a lot of fun as Melissa, who has...
Walter plays second-grade teacher Melissa Schemmenti, who is close with Sheryl Lee Ralph‘s Barbara. Both teachers are veterans at Abbott Elementary, while some of Melissa’s connections outside of school are deemed questionable. Walter has a lot of fun as Melissa, who has...
- 6/23/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Awkwafina is… searching for her first Emmy nomination. The multi-hyphenate star has seen her status as a performer and creative rise rapidly within the last few years but she has yet to receive the recognition a comedian of her talents might well deserve from the Emmys.
With “Awkwafina is Nora From Queens,” however, that could change. Created by Awkwafina and “Family Guy” and “American Dad” writer/producer Teresa Hsiao, this Comedy Central hit is a vehicle for Awkwafina’s star power. It follows Awkwafina as Nora, a fictionalized version of herself, who is a 20-year-old-something woman living in Queens, New York who longs for something better than she currently has. She finds herself in various situations, ranging from the aggravating to the bizarre, and has to deal with her family, too, led by her dad (Bd Wong) and grandma (Lori Tan Chinn). The show demonstrates Awkwafina’s unique comedy stylings...
With “Awkwafina is Nora From Queens,” however, that could change. Created by Awkwafina and “Family Guy” and “American Dad” writer/producer Teresa Hsiao, this Comedy Central hit is a vehicle for Awkwafina’s star power. It follows Awkwafina as Nora, a fictionalized version of herself, who is a 20-year-old-something woman living in Queens, New York who longs for something better than she currently has. She finds herself in various situations, ranging from the aggravating to the bizarre, and has to deal with her family, too, led by her dad (Bd Wong) and grandma (Lori Tan Chinn). The show demonstrates Awkwafina’s unique comedy stylings...
- 6/22/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Paramount+ has renewed its teen drama “School Spirits” for a second season.
The series stars Peyton List as Maddie Nears, a teen girl stuck in the afterlife investigating her own mysterious disappearance. Maddie goes on a crime-solving journey as she adjusts to high school purgatory, but the closer she gets to discovering the truth, the more secrets and lies she uncovers.
The cast also includes Kristian Ventura as Simon Elroy, Milo Manheim as Wally Clark, Spencer MacPherson as Xavier Baxter, Kiara Pichardo as Nicole Herrera, Sarah Yarkin as Rhonda, Nick Pugliese as Charley and Rainbow Wedell as Claire Zomer.
Season 1 was favorably reviewed, scoring an 83% on Rotten Tomatoes. Variety‘s chief TV critic Daniel D’Addario wrote that “without losing sight of the sorrow of Maddie’s story, ‘School Spirits’ manages to be surprisingly sparky and fun — proof positive that there are new stories to tell about the institution no one...
The series stars Peyton List as Maddie Nears, a teen girl stuck in the afterlife investigating her own mysterious disappearance. Maddie goes on a crime-solving journey as she adjusts to high school purgatory, but the closer she gets to discovering the truth, the more secrets and lies she uncovers.
The cast also includes Kristian Ventura as Simon Elroy, Milo Manheim as Wally Clark, Spencer MacPherson as Xavier Baxter, Kiara Pichardo as Nicole Herrera, Sarah Yarkin as Rhonda, Nick Pugliese as Charley and Rainbow Wedell as Claire Zomer.
Season 1 was favorably reviewed, scoring an 83% on Rotten Tomatoes. Variety‘s chief TV critic Daniel D’Addario wrote that “without losing sight of the sorrow of Maddie’s story, ‘School Spirits’ manages to be surprisingly sparky and fun — proof positive that there are new stories to tell about the institution no one...
- 6/20/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
TV academy favorite Bradley Whitford could be in for another return to the Emmys as the veteran actor hunts down his ninth total Emmy bid and his fourth overall for “The Handmaid’s Tale.”
This acclaimed series, which has won a whopping 15 Emmys so far, depicts a dystopian future wherein a second American Civil War led to the creation of Gilead — a totalitarian society where women are forced to be handmaids, which is essentially child-bearing slavery. Season five took the bleak drama into new depths as Elisabeth Moss‘ June faces the consequences of murdering Commander Waterford (Joseph Fiennes) in the season four finale. Meanwhile, Yvonne Strahovski‘s Serena faces her own problems in Canada as Gilead begins to grow and Commander Lawrence tries to reform Gilead.
Lawrence is played by the inimitable Whitford, who shines in all seven of the episodes he appears in throughout this season. As Lawrence, Whitford is...
This acclaimed series, which has won a whopping 15 Emmys so far, depicts a dystopian future wherein a second American Civil War led to the creation of Gilead — a totalitarian society where women are forced to be handmaids, which is essentially child-bearing slavery. Season five took the bleak drama into new depths as Elisabeth Moss‘ June faces the consequences of murdering Commander Waterford (Joseph Fiennes) in the season four finale. Meanwhile, Yvonne Strahovski‘s Serena faces her own problems in Canada as Gilead begins to grow and Commander Lawrence tries to reform Gilead.
Lawrence is played by the inimitable Whitford, who shines in all seven of the episodes he appears in throughout this season. As Lawrence, Whitford is...
- 6/15/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
“I Love That for You” will not move forward with a second season at Showtime. The network has canceled the comedy series executive produced by Vanessa Bayer, Jeremy Beiler and Jessi Klein after one season.
“’I Love That for You’ has completed its run on Showtime,” a spokesperson for the network disclosed on Wednesday evening. “We want to thank Vanessa, Jeremy and Jessi, along with the incredible cast and crew for their hard work and wish them the best going forward.”
The news comes nearly a year after “I Love That for You” completed its pilot season, airing a finale on June 19, 2022. The first season was composed of eight episodes, which broadcast weekly on Sunday evenings.
While Showtime is terminating its relationship with “I Love That for You,” the production is open to search for a new home by shopping to other networks.
Created by Bayer and Beiler, “I Love That for You...
“’I Love That for You’ has completed its run on Showtime,” a spokesperson for the network disclosed on Wednesday evening. “We want to thank Vanessa, Jeremy and Jessi, along with the incredible cast and crew for their hard work and wish them the best going forward.”
The news comes nearly a year after “I Love That for You” completed its pilot season, airing a finale on June 19, 2022. The first season was composed of eight episodes, which broadcast weekly on Sunday evenings.
While Showtime is terminating its relationship with “I Love That for You,” the production is open to search for a new home by shopping to other networks.
Created by Bayer and Beiler, “I Love That for You...
- 6/8/2023
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Olivia Colman is primed for another healthy year in terms of awards as she lines up a return to the Emmys with the latest adaptation of Charles Dickens‘ seminal work “Great Expectations.”
This FX on Hulu limited series, which was created by “Peaky Blinders” boss Steven Knight, follows Fionn Whitehead‘s Pip — an orphan who works as a blacksmith’s apprentice before receiving a sudden windfall from an unknown benefactor. He then travels to London and enters high society. Colman steals the show in the short but sharp role of Miss Havisham, the spurned, wealthy spinster who was left at the altar on her own wedding day. Full of bitter resentment, she insists on wearing her cob-webbed wedding dress for the rest of her life and schemes to get Pip’s heart broken.
As Miss Havisham, Colman is sensational — disappearing behind the dress, the witchy white hair, and the dust...
This FX on Hulu limited series, which was created by “Peaky Blinders” boss Steven Knight, follows Fionn Whitehead‘s Pip — an orphan who works as a blacksmith’s apprentice before receiving a sudden windfall from an unknown benefactor. He then travels to London and enters high society. Colman steals the show in the short but sharp role of Miss Havisham, the spurned, wealthy spinster who was left at the altar on her own wedding day. Full of bitter resentment, she insists on wearing her cob-webbed wedding dress for the rest of her life and schemes to get Pip’s heart broken.
As Miss Havisham, Colman is sensational — disappearing behind the dress, the witchy white hair, and the dust...
- 5/30/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Phoebe Waller-Bridge may have been the star of her seminal comedy series “Fleabag” but Sian Clifford, who played Fleabag’s semi-unstable sister, Claire, proved herself an equally gifted comedic performer. Clifford has since put that status to good use in “Quiz,” “Inside No. 9,” and “See How They Run.” Now, she stars opposite Rob and John Owen Lowe in Netflix’s “Unstable.”
“Unstable,” reportedly inspired by John Owen’s trolling of his father Rob, follows the former as a son forced to work for the biological research company that his father, the latter, runs. However, the father, grieving from the recent death of his wife of 30 years, has become eccentric and erratic and is more focused on activities such as sunbathing naked in his office rather than running Dragon, his company. Clifford plays Anna, the CFO of Dragon, and she tries her hardest to protect her boss from other employees and himself.
“Unstable,” reportedly inspired by John Owen’s trolling of his father Rob, follows the former as a son forced to work for the biological research company that his father, the latter, runs. However, the father, grieving from the recent death of his wife of 30 years, has become eccentric and erratic and is more focused on activities such as sunbathing naked in his office rather than running Dragon, his company. Clifford plays Anna, the CFO of Dragon, and she tries her hardest to protect her boss from other employees and himself.
- 5/11/2023
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Alison Herman is Variety’s new TV critic, joining chief TV critic Daniel D’Addario. In the role, Herman will be a key voice in television criticism, writing reviews, commentary, appreciations and cover stories across all of Variety’s platforms. She will work with editor-at-large Kate Aurthur, who oversees the publication’s TV criticism and features.
Herman was a staff writer at The Ringer from 2016 to 2023, where she covered television and popular culture. During her tenure, she wrote columns on new shows, profiled performers such as John Mulaney and reported the definitive piece on the aesthetics of “Succession.”
“TV criticism is one of the bedrocks of Variety, as the No. 1 brand covering the business of entertainment,” co-Editors-in-Chief Cynthia Littleton and Ramin Setoodeh say. “Alison’s deep knowledge of television and pop culture make her the perfect addition to our team.”
Says Herman: “I couldn’t be more excited to cover television...
Herman was a staff writer at The Ringer from 2016 to 2023, where she covered television and popular culture. During her tenure, she wrote columns on new shows, profiled performers such as John Mulaney and reported the definitive piece on the aesthetics of “Succession.”
“TV criticism is one of the bedrocks of Variety, as the No. 1 brand covering the business of entertainment,” co-Editors-in-Chief Cynthia Littleton and Ramin Setoodeh say. “Alison’s deep knowledge of television and pop culture make her the perfect addition to our team.”
Says Herman: “I couldn’t be more excited to cover television...
- 4/17/2023
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
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Following a bloody and harrowing season finale in March, “The Last of Us” is getting a digital and Blu-ray release, available to pre-order on Amazon today.
HBO’s acclaimed video game adaptation, co-created by Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin, follows Joel (Pedro Pascal) who’s responsible for smuggling Ellie (Bella Ramsay) across a post-apocalyptic United States, in hopes of using her apparent immunity from a ravaging fungal outbreak — that turns the “infected” into zombies — as a vaccine to save humanity. The powerful season finale embraces its video game roots as Joel springs into action to save Ellie after finding out that the operation used to extract a possible cure from her will kill her. In its final moments, the narrative shifts into game mode as the viewer shares a first-person perspective with Joel,...
Following a bloody and harrowing season finale in March, “The Last of Us” is getting a digital and Blu-ray release, available to pre-order on Amazon today.
HBO’s acclaimed video game adaptation, co-created by Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin, follows Joel (Pedro Pascal) who’s responsible for smuggling Ellie (Bella Ramsay) across a post-apocalyptic United States, in hopes of using her apparent immunity from a ravaging fungal outbreak — that turns the “infected” into zombies — as a vaccine to save humanity. The powerful season finale embraces its video game roots as Joel springs into action to save Ellie after finding out that the operation used to extract a possible cure from her will kill her. In its final moments, the narrative shifts into game mode as the viewer shares a first-person perspective with Joel,...
- 4/10/2023
- by Anna Tingley
- Variety Film + TV
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
“Daisy Jones & the Six,” the TV adaptation of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s bestselling novel of the same name, hits Amazon Prime Video on Friday, March 3.
The rollicking, drama-filled show about the epic rise and fall of an iconic 1970s rock band, loosely based on Fleetwood Mac, has been in the works since even before the book’s 2019 release. In 2018, Variety reported that Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine and Amazon Studios would co-produce a limited series based on the book. Five years later, the 10-episode season is finally here.
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Reid’s story was already a thrilling ride on the page, but the intoxicating elements of 1970s rock are even more tantalizing onscreen. In the show, Riley Keough (“Zola”) stars as the singer and songwriter Daisy Jones,...
“Daisy Jones & the Six,” the TV adaptation of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s bestselling novel of the same name, hits Amazon Prime Video on Friday, March 3.
The rollicking, drama-filled show about the epic rise and fall of an iconic 1970s rock band, loosely based on Fleetwood Mac, has been in the works since even before the book’s 2019 release. In 2018, Variety reported that Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine and Amazon Studios would co-produce a limited series based on the book. Five years later, the 10-episode season is finally here.
Prime Video 30-Day Free Trial Buy Now
Reid’s story was already a thrilling ride on the page, but the intoxicating elements of 1970s rock are even more tantalizing onscreen. In the show, Riley Keough (“Zola”) stars as the singer and songwriter Daisy Jones,...
- 3/2/2023
- by Anna Tingley
- Variety Film + TV
The first reviews are in forDaisy Jones & the Six – and it seems like Prime Video’s long-awaited TV series might not have hit all the right notes.
Based on Taylor Jenkins Reid’s popular novel, the show follows a fictional rock band from the Seventies on their rise to fame. Riley Keough plays singer Daisy, while Sam Claflin is the band’s founder Billy Dunne.
While fans of Jenkins’ book have begged for an adaptation since it was released, early reviews for the series – which arrives on Prime Video on Friday (3 March) – have been less than glowing.
Vulture’s Roxana Hadadi compared Daisy Jones & the Six to “buying a Fleetwood Mac T-shirt from Urban Outfitters”, writing: “There’s an unignorable smallness throughout, a sense that, as with that Fleetwood Mac T-shirt, we’re settling for a copy of a copy.”
In a three-star review for The Daily Telegraph, Jasper Rees...
Based on Taylor Jenkins Reid’s popular novel, the show follows a fictional rock band from the Seventies on their rise to fame. Riley Keough plays singer Daisy, while Sam Claflin is the band’s founder Billy Dunne.
While fans of Jenkins’ book have begged for an adaptation since it was released, early reviews for the series – which arrives on Prime Video on Friday (3 March) – have been less than glowing.
Vulture’s Roxana Hadadi compared Daisy Jones & the Six to “buying a Fleetwood Mac T-shirt from Urban Outfitters”, writing: “There’s an unignorable smallness throughout, a sense that, as with that Fleetwood Mac T-shirt, we’re settling for a copy of a copy.”
In a three-star review for The Daily Telegraph, Jasper Rees...
- 3/1/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Ramón Rodriguez brings a quirky and different point of view to his latest role in ABC’s Will Trent. The show has been a hit with audiences partly due to Rodriguez’s unique and lovable take on the character. In a recent interview, the actor explained what drew him to the series saying he connected with the “heart” of Will Trent.
‘Will Trent’ follows a former foster kid turned agent with a unique perspective on life
Will Trent is the newest kid on ABC’s block. Based on Karin Slaughter’s novel series of the same name, Will Trent follows the title character who grew up in the foster care system after being abandoned by his parents as a child. Growing up in the system had a lasting effect on Will but he managed to come out almost whole on the other side.
A special agent at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation,...
‘Will Trent’ follows a former foster kid turned agent with a unique perspective on life
Will Trent is the newest kid on ABC’s block. Based on Karin Slaughter’s novel series of the same name, Will Trent follows the title character who grew up in the foster care system after being abandoned by his parents as a child. Growing up in the system had a lasting effect on Will but he managed to come out almost whole on the other side.
A special agent at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation,...
- 2/26/2023
- by Produced by Digital Editors
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Peacock is in for another hand of “Poker Face.” The series has been renewed for a second season, NBCUniversal’s streamer announced Wednesday morning.
The first season of “Poker Face” debuted on Jan. 26, earning strong reviews for Natasha Lyonne’s lead performance as sleuth Charlie Cale and creator Rian Johnson’s throwback take on the case-of-the-week mystery format. Variety chief television critic Daniel D’Addario praised the series, saying it “allows an established star the time and space to crack a new sort of case, that of how to evolve a familiar persona and bring fans along for the ride.”
“’Poker Face’ is one of those rare, undeniable shows that we all fell in love with from the start, but the critical acclaim and viewer response has been beyond our wildest dreams,” said Susan Rovner, chairman of entertainment content for television and streaming at NBCUniversal. “Working alongside the creative genius of Rian Johnson,...
The first season of “Poker Face” debuted on Jan. 26, earning strong reviews for Natasha Lyonne’s lead performance as sleuth Charlie Cale and creator Rian Johnson’s throwback take on the case-of-the-week mystery format. Variety chief television critic Daniel D’Addario praised the series, saying it “allows an established star the time and space to crack a new sort of case, that of how to evolve a familiar persona and bring fans along for the ride.”
“’Poker Face’ is one of those rare, undeniable shows that we all fell in love with from the start, but the critical acclaim and viewer response has been beyond our wildest dreams,” said Susan Rovner, chairman of entertainment content for television and streaming at NBCUniversal. “Working alongside the creative genius of Rian Johnson,...
- 2/15/2023
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
On January 26, 2023, Hulu began streaming “The 1619 Project,” a six-part docuseries that expands upon Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones‘ piece in The New York Times Magazine. The series seeks to reframe our country’s history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the very center of our national narrative.
Critics have heaped praise on the series, resulting in a 100 freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The series, hosted by Hannah-Jones, is a Lionsgate Production in association with One Story Up Productions, Harpo Films and The New York Times. It was executive produced by Hannah-Jones, Roger Ross Williams, Caitlin Roper, Kathleen Lingo and Oprah Winfrey. The episodes focus on “Democracy,” “Race,” “Music,” “Capitalism,” “Fear,” and “Justice.” Read our review roundup below.
See ‘The 1619 Project’: Red carpet interviews from Hulu premiere include Boris Kodjoe, Jalen Rose and more … [Watch]
Dan Fienberg of the Hollywood Reporter says,...
Critics have heaped praise on the series, resulting in a 100 freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The series, hosted by Hannah-Jones, is a Lionsgate Production in association with One Story Up Productions, Harpo Films and The New York Times. It was executive produced by Hannah-Jones, Roger Ross Williams, Caitlin Roper, Kathleen Lingo and Oprah Winfrey. The episodes focus on “Democracy,” “Race,” “Music,” “Capitalism,” “Fear,” and “Justice.” Read our review roundup below.
See ‘The 1619 Project’: Red carpet interviews from Hulu premiere include Boris Kodjoe, Jalen Rose and more … [Watch]
Dan Fienberg of the Hollywood Reporter says,...
- 2/2/2023
- by Vincent Mandile
- Gold Derby
“Abbott Elementary” is on a roll. After picking up three trophies at the Golden Globes on Tuesday — including best TV comedy — the series has officially been renewed for its third season at ABC. The news was announced by Craig Erwich, president of ABC Entertainment, Hulu and Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals, at the Television Critics Association’s Winter 2023 press tour on Wednesday.
Created by and starring Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary” takes place in a Philadelphia public school and focuses on a group of educators — with different levels of experience and optimism, but all with the determination to help their students. Brunson plays eager but naive second grade teacher Janine Teagues, and the cast also includes Sheryl Lee Ralph as Barbara Howard, Tyler James Williams as Gregory Eddie, Lisa Ann Walter as Melissa Schemmenti, Janelle James as Ava Coleman, Chris Perfetti as Jacob Hill and William Stanford Davis as Mr. Johnson.
Created by and starring Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary” takes place in a Philadelphia public school and focuses on a group of educators — with different levels of experience and optimism, but all with the determination to help their students. Brunson plays eager but naive second grade teacher Janine Teagues, and the cast also includes Sheryl Lee Ralph as Barbara Howard, Tyler James Williams as Gregory Eddie, Lisa Ann Walter as Melissa Schemmenti, Janelle James as Ava Coleman, Chris Perfetti as Jacob Hill and William Stanford Davis as Mr. Johnson.
- 1/11/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Gwen Stefani declared that she is Japanese in a bizarre interview discussing past cultural appropriation accusations.
The “Hollaback Girl” singer was known in the early stages of her career for taking inspiration from Japanese aesthetics.
This included her 2004 album Love. Angel. Music. Baby., which features the song “Harajuku Girls” where she sings words in Japanese and professes her love of Japanese street style.
In 2008, Stefani released her hugely popular Harajuku Lovers perfume collection, with bottles that looked like dolls and were modelled on the singer and the four Japanese-American backing dancers who supported her.
In recent years, many have suggested that Stefani was appropriating Japanese culture with her branding choices.
In a new interview with Filipina-American journalist Jesa Marie Calaor for beauty publication Allure, Stefani was asked what she learnt from the response, positive and negative, to the Harajuku Lovers launch.
Stefani explained that when she was growing up, her...
The “Hollaback Girl” singer was known in the early stages of her career for taking inspiration from Japanese aesthetics.
This included her 2004 album Love. Angel. Music. Baby., which features the song “Harajuku Girls” where she sings words in Japanese and professes her love of Japanese street style.
In 2008, Stefani released her hugely popular Harajuku Lovers perfume collection, with bottles that looked like dolls and were modelled on the singer and the four Japanese-American backing dancers who supported her.
In recent years, many have suggested that Stefani was appropriating Japanese culture with her branding choices.
In a new interview with Filipina-American journalist Jesa Marie Calaor for beauty publication Allure, Stefani was asked what she learnt from the response, positive and negative, to the Harajuku Lovers launch.
Stefani explained that when she was growing up, her...
- 1/11/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - Music
Howard Stern is fed up with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following the rollout of the couple’s new Netflix documentary series “Harry & Meghan.” The streamer debuted the first three episodes of the show on Dec. 8, with three more episodes set to follow on Dec. 15.
“It’s been painful,” Stern said of watching the series (via Mediaite). “I don’t — I wouldn’t stay with it, but my wife wants to watch it, so, you know, we have shows we watch, but they come off like such whiny bitches. I gotta tell you man, I just don’t get it.”
“I get Prince Harry being pissed off at the monarchy for his mother,” Stern continued. “They treated her like shit…I feel bad for Prince Harry losing his mother and all that. So you got my empathy there. But Jesus Christ, when those two start whining about ‘wah wah wah,...
“It’s been painful,” Stern said of watching the series (via Mediaite). “I don’t — I wouldn’t stay with it, but my wife wants to watch it, so, you know, we have shows we watch, but they come off like such whiny bitches. I gotta tell you man, I just don’t get it.”
“I get Prince Harry being pissed off at the monarchy for his mother,” Stern continued. “They treated her like shit…I feel bad for Prince Harry losing his mother and all that. So you got my empathy there. But Jesus Christ, when those two start whining about ‘wah wah wah,...
- 12/12/2022
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
“Welcome to Chippendales” had its Hulu premiere on November 22, earning rave reviews for Robert Siegel‘s limited series starring Kumail Nanjiani, Annaleigh Ashford, Murray Bartlett, and Juliette Lewis. The dramatic true story currently holds an impressive 93 freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes, signaling overwhelming approval from critics.
The series is inspired by the book Deadly Dance: The Chippendales Murders by K. Scot Macdonald and Patrick MontesDeOca. It tells the origin story of Somen “Steve” Banerjee (played by Nanjiani), an Indian American entrepreneur who started the stripper troupe, Chippendales.
Early buzz for the show has already launched it into the awards conversation. In our Golden Globes predictions, “Welcome to Chippendales” ranks sixth for Best TV Movie/Limited Series, Nanjiani is in seventh for Best TV Movie/Limited Series Actor and Bartlett and Lewis both sit in 10th position for Best TV Movie/Limited Series Supporting Actor and Supporting Actress, respectively.
See Why...
The series is inspired by the book Deadly Dance: The Chippendales Murders by K. Scot Macdonald and Patrick MontesDeOca. It tells the origin story of Somen “Steve” Banerjee (played by Nanjiani), an Indian American entrepreneur who started the stripper troupe, Chippendales.
Early buzz for the show has already launched it into the awards conversation. In our Golden Globes predictions, “Welcome to Chippendales” ranks sixth for Best TV Movie/Limited Series, Nanjiani is in seventh for Best TV Movie/Limited Series Actor and Bartlett and Lewis both sit in 10th position for Best TV Movie/Limited Series Supporting Actor and Supporting Actress, respectively.
See Why...
- 11/22/2022
- by Vincent Mandile
- Gold Derby
“Carnival Row” will end after just two seasons at Amazon, with the streamer set to launch the new and final installment of the fantasy drama in early 2023.
Season 2 of the series will launch on Feb. 17, with new episodes dropping weekly thereafter. The season will consist of 10 episodes. “Carnival Row’s” first season aired on Amazon back in August 2019. It was renewed for a second season in July of that year ahead of the series premiere. Amazon did not release any kind of viewership data on the show, but it received mixed reviews from critics upon its launch. The first season holds a 57 critical approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
In his review for Variety, Daniel D’Addario wrote, “This new series reaches for credibility with gruesomeness and exaggeration, falling flat at every turn. It’s painful proof that a genre success cannot be reverse-engineered.”
The sudden conclusion of the series marks the...
Season 2 of the series will launch on Feb. 17, with new episodes dropping weekly thereafter. The season will consist of 10 episodes. “Carnival Row’s” first season aired on Amazon back in August 2019. It was renewed for a second season in July of that year ahead of the series premiere. Amazon did not release any kind of viewership data on the show, but it received mixed reviews from critics upon its launch. The first season holds a 57 critical approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
In his review for Variety, Daniel D’Addario wrote, “This new series reaches for credibility with gruesomeness and exaggeration, falling flat at every turn. It’s painful proof that a genre success cannot be reverse-engineered.”
The sudden conclusion of the series marks the...
- 11/7/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
On October 13, ‘The Watcher” became the latest Netflix release from Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan. In the spooky thriller, the Brannock family moves into what was supposed to be their suburban dream home, but it quickly becomes a living hell. Ominous letters from someone calling themself “The Watcher” are just the beginning as the neighborhood’s sinister secrets come spilling out. Inspired by the true story of the infamous “Watcher” house in New Jersey, the limited series stars Naomi Watts, Bobby Cannavale, Jennifer Coolidge, Mia Farrow and Margo Martindale.
Reviews are mixed for the star-studded Netflix show that will compete in the limited series categories at the upcoming Golden Globes and SAG Awards, but the stellar ensemble should garner plenty of buzz.
See ‘The Crown’ Season 5 premiere date finally set: See new photos of the cast
Karina “ScreamQueen” Adelgaard of Heaven of Horror praises the cast, calling it “brilliant and...
Reviews are mixed for the star-studded Netflix show that will compete in the limited series categories at the upcoming Golden Globes and SAG Awards, but the stellar ensemble should garner plenty of buzz.
See ‘The Crown’ Season 5 premiere date finally set: See new photos of the cast
Karina “ScreamQueen” Adelgaard of Heaven of Horror praises the cast, calling it “brilliant and...
- 10/17/2022
- by Vincent Mandile
- Gold Derby
Ana de Armas stunned in fishnets and a leotard for the cover of Variety magazine. Pic credit: @ana_de_armas/Instagram
Ana de Armas stunned in fishnets and a leotard for the cover of Variety magazine. Ana starred in Knives Out and as Marilyn Monroe in the 2022 movie, Blonde.
The fishnet stockings accentuated the actress’ long and toned legs and went all the way down to her bare feet. Ana wore a skintight black leotard over the fishnets, which complimented her figure.
Ana accessorized with an extravagant and voluminous black and white scarf, with several layers, that tied around her neck. This gave the star’s look a classic appearance.
The 34-year-old actress styled her hair with a small part in the middle and with incredible volume at the top and in the back. Her makeup featured dark eyeshadow and wings that went in tandem with the outfit.
Ana posed...
Ana de Armas stunned in fishnets and a leotard for the cover of Variety magazine. Ana starred in Knives Out and as Marilyn Monroe in the 2022 movie, Blonde.
The fishnet stockings accentuated the actress’ long and toned legs and went all the way down to her bare feet. Ana wore a skintight black leotard over the fishnets, which complimented her figure.
Ana accessorized with an extravagant and voluminous black and white scarf, with several layers, that tied around her neck. This gave the star’s look a classic appearance.
The 34-year-old actress styled her hair with a small part in the middle and with incredible volume at the top and in the back. Her makeup featured dark eyeshadow and wings that went in tandem with the outfit.
Ana posed...
- 9/21/2022
- by Catherine Tatem
- Monsters and Critics
The Emmy Awards dominated Variety’s Trending TV chart for the week of Sept. 12 – 18, pulling in more than 18 million engagements — less than the Oscars (33 million engagements) and Grammys (57 million engagements), but more than the SAG Awards (4 million), which were all tracked for a shorter length of time.
“Succession,” “Ted Lasso” and “The White Lotus” took home the top prizes during the Sept. 12 ceremony on NBC. Historic wins from Sheryl Lee Ralph, Quinta Brunson, Zendaya and Lee Jung-jae, as well as memorable moments from winners Jennifer Coolidge and Lizzo ruled Twitter chatter.
Sheryl Lee Ralph blew the roof off the #emmys with this speech! pic.twitter.com/MFJzIqxBWC
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) September 13, 2022
This year’s Emmys marked the return to a full-scale production for the first time since 2019, but as Variety chief TV critic Daniel D’Addario noted in his review, “much of the production seemed strangely stuck in a hazy past.
“Succession,” “Ted Lasso” and “The White Lotus” took home the top prizes during the Sept. 12 ceremony on NBC. Historic wins from Sheryl Lee Ralph, Quinta Brunson, Zendaya and Lee Jung-jae, as well as memorable moments from winners Jennifer Coolidge and Lizzo ruled Twitter chatter.
Sheryl Lee Ralph blew the roof off the #emmys with this speech! pic.twitter.com/MFJzIqxBWC
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) September 13, 2022
This year’s Emmys marked the return to a full-scale production for the first time since 2019, but as Variety chief TV critic Daniel D’Addario noted in his review, “much of the production seemed strangely stuck in a hazy past.
- 9/20/2022
- by Amber Dowling
- Variety Film + TV
The 74th Primetime Emmys came sparklingly alive thanks to speeches by a strong slate of winners. The production seemed eager to bring back the grand-scale awards show after a dialed-back Covid era, with a booming pop soundtrack and a packed house. Variety’s TV critics were divided on some elements of the show, from the hosting to the speeches to the wins themselves. The morning after the ceremony, they had some coffee and hashed it all out.
Daniel D’Addario: Sometimes I wonder if the Emmys, specifically, need a host. The show appeared insecure that people might not recognize the nominees, many of them legitimate zeitgeist hits, and so larded the broadcast with montages of other, more self-consciously “mainstream” shows. And the show was committed to coming in at three hours — so much so that they played off, for instance, winner Jennifer Coolidge, for whose crowning moment fans of the...
Daniel D’Addario: Sometimes I wonder if the Emmys, specifically, need a host. The show appeared insecure that people might not recognize the nominees, many of them legitimate zeitgeist hits, and so larded the broadcast with montages of other, more self-consciously “mainstream” shows. And the show was committed to coming in at three hours — so much so that they played off, for instance, winner Jennifer Coolidge, for whose crowning moment fans of the...
- 9/13/2022
- by Caroline Framke and Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
“Maggie” has been canceled after its first season at Hulu, Variety has learned exclusively.
The single-camera comedy was ordered to series at ABC in May 2021, though parent company Disney switched it from the broadcaster to a streaming home on Hulu in January 2022 ahead of its summer premiere.
The series was based on the 2019 short film of the same name by Tim Curcio. Rebecca Rittenhouse starred in the title role, a woman navigating the world of dating as a psychic. Maggie’s gift allows her to see into the future of her friends, parents, clients and random people on the street. But when she begins to see glimpses of her own destiny after meeting an unexpected stranger, her romantic life suddenly gets a lot more complicated as she attempts to let herself fall in love while thinking she knows how it will end.
Series regulars also included David Del Rio as Ben,...
The single-camera comedy was ordered to series at ABC in May 2021, though parent company Disney switched it from the broadcaster to a streaming home on Hulu in January 2022 ahead of its summer premiere.
The series was based on the 2019 short film of the same name by Tim Curcio. Rebecca Rittenhouse starred in the title role, a woman navigating the world of dating as a psychic. Maggie’s gift allows her to see into the future of her friends, parents, clients and random people on the street. But when she begins to see glimpses of her own destiny after meeting an unexpected stranger, her romantic life suddenly gets a lot more complicated as she attempts to let herself fall in love while thinking she knows how it will end.
Series regulars also included David Del Rio as Ben,...
- 9/9/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Nothing screams "must-see" quite like a new Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks collaboration. They're the dream duo of modern American cinema, the closest thing we have to a Frank Capra-James Stewart tandem. They've made five films together, and all but one ("The Terminal") are legitimately great.
The only baffling element of their creative partnership is that it didn't happen sooner. Hanks was in his 40s and Spielberg in his 50s when they came together for 1998's devastating World War II epic "Saving Private Ryan." If you're wondering what took so long, Spielberg is right there with you. If the two-time Academy Award-winning filmmaker had been able to swing it, he would've loved to direct Hanks in 1993's "Philadelphia."
Hanks Finally Proves His Worth As A Dramatic Actor
The Jonathan Demme-directed drama about Andrew Beckett (Hanks), a gay corporate lawyer who teams up with an initially homophobic prosecutor,...
The only baffling element of their creative partnership is that it didn't happen sooner. Hanks was in his 40s and Spielberg in his 50s when they came together for 1998's devastating World War II epic "Saving Private Ryan." If you're wondering what took so long, Spielberg is right there with you. If the two-time Academy Award-winning filmmaker had been able to swing it, he would've loved to direct Hanks in 1993's "Philadelphia."
Hanks Finally Proves His Worth As A Dramatic Actor
The Jonathan Demme-directed drama about Andrew Beckett (Hanks), a gay corporate lawyer who teams up with an initially homophobic prosecutor,...
- 9/2/2022
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
The 1993 classic “A League of Their Own” starring Tom Hanks, Geena Davis and Madonna, gets a modern update in a new series that hits Amazon Prime Video this Friday.
The series remake features all new characters in a similar storyline that centers around the formation of an all-girls baseball league during World War II. Like in the Penny Marshall-directed film, the series is set in 1943. New character Carson (played by “Broad City’s” Abbi Jacobson) finds herself enthralled by the sport of baseball after her husband is deployed overseas. While Carson’s character seems to be lightly inspired by Davis’s portrayal of Dottie in the original film, her teammate Greta played by D’Arcy Carden has hints of Madonna’s glamorous Mae.
The biggest departure from the original film is a larger emphasis on race relations. Chanté Adams stars as a Black woman athlete named Max who is excluded...
The series remake features all new characters in a similar storyline that centers around the formation of an all-girls baseball league during World War II. Like in the Penny Marshall-directed film, the series is set in 1943. New character Carson (played by “Broad City’s” Abbi Jacobson) finds herself enthralled by the sport of baseball after her husband is deployed overseas. While Carson’s character seems to be lightly inspired by Davis’s portrayal of Dottie in the original film, her teammate Greta played by D’Arcy Carden has hints of Madonna’s glamorous Mae.
The biggest departure from the original film is a larger emphasis on race relations. Chanté Adams stars as a Black woman athlete named Max who is excluded...
- 8/11/2022
- by Anna Tingley
- Variety Film + TV
On July 15, 2022, HBO premiered “The Rehearsal,” a docu-comedy created by Canadian comedian Nathan Fielder, in which he also stars and directs. The six-episode series explores the lengths one man will go to reduce the uncertainties of everyday life. With a construction crew, a legion of actors, and seemingly unlimited resources, Fielder allows ordinary people to prepare for life’s biggest moments by “rehearsing” them in carefully crafted simulations of his own design. When a single misstep could shatter your entire world, why leave life to chance?
With a 96 on Rotten Tomatoes, the show has already struck a cord with viewers. The gushing consensus states, “‘The Rehearsal’ gives Nathan Fielder carte blanche to take his absurdist comedy to the limit, which he pushes even further past with deadpan aplomb in what might be his most uncomfortably funny feat yet.” But what exactly did the critics think of it?
See over 130 interviews...
With a 96 on Rotten Tomatoes, the show has already struck a cord with viewers. The gushing consensus states, “‘The Rehearsal’ gives Nathan Fielder carte blanche to take his absurdist comedy to the limit, which he pushes even further past with deadpan aplomb in what might be his most uncomfortably funny feat yet.” But what exactly did the critics think of it?
See over 130 interviews...
- 7/18/2022
- by Vincent Mandile
- Gold Derby
The 2022 Emmy nominations, marking a year in which the TV industry roared back from early-covid production slowdowns, seem as competitive as they’ve been in years. Though some select few shows continue to dominate their respective categories — here’s looking at you, “Succession” and “Ted Lasso” — newcomers like “Squid Game,” “Abbott Elementary,” “Severance” and “Yellowjackets” battled their way into the fold to challenge the heavyweights for their titles.
Variety’s chief TV critics Daniel D’Addario and Caroline Framke break down the list — what they’re delighted made it through the gauntlet, and what they wish Emmy had found room for.
Daniel D’Addario: I’d expected to feel as though this was the awards season of “Succession”-vs.-”Squid Game” — two very different visions of the competition for survival, themselves competing for dominance — but looking at this list, I’m not so sure. It’s an incredibly strong set...
Variety’s chief TV critics Daniel D’Addario and Caroline Framke break down the list — what they’re delighted made it through the gauntlet, and what they wish Emmy had found room for.
Daniel D’Addario: I’d expected to feel as though this was the awards season of “Succession”-vs.-”Squid Game” — two very different visions of the competition for survival, themselves competing for dominance — but looking at this list, I’m not so sure. It’s an incredibly strong set...
- 7/12/2022
- by Caroline Framke and Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video has canceled “Night Sky,” its science-fiction series starring Sissy Spacek and J.K. Simmons. Amazon Studios and Legendary Television co-produced the series’ first season.
The decision to not move forward with another installment comes about six weeks after the first season premiered all eight of its episodes on the streamer May 20.
“Night Sky” follows Irene (Spacek) and Franklin (Simmons), who once stumbled upon a portal to an alien planet. The couple’s fairly quiet life together is upended when new parties attempt to interrogate them about the mysterious gateway and the world beyond it.
Notably, Amazon Prime Video leaned into the science-fiction premise of the series by launching a marketing strategy involving beaming the first episode of “Night Sky” into outer space, avoiding satellites that would send the broadcast back to Earth. The company described the decision to send “Night Sky” to the night sky as “the farthest...
The decision to not move forward with another installment comes about six weeks after the first season premiered all eight of its episodes on the streamer May 20.
“Night Sky” follows Irene (Spacek) and Franklin (Simmons), who once stumbled upon a portal to an alien planet. The couple’s fairly quiet life together is upended when new parties attempt to interrogate them about the mysterious gateway and the world beyond it.
Notably, Amazon Prime Video leaned into the science-fiction premise of the series by launching a marketing strategy involving beaming the first episode of “Night Sky” into outer space, avoiding satellites that would send the broadcast back to Earth. The company described the decision to send “Night Sky” to the night sky as “the farthest...
- 7/6/2022
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
After weeks of waiting to see what happened next in the Upside Down, viewers catapulted “Stranger Things” to the top of Variety’s Trending TV chart yet again. This time, the sci-fi hit garnered 1.37 million engagements, from June 27 – July 3, marking the highest action the Netflix series has drummed up on the chart to date.
Chapter 9. The Piggyback. It will all be over soon.
Chapter 9. The Piggyback. It will all be over soon.
- 7/5/2022
- by Amber Dowling
- Variety Film + TV
“The Time Traveler’s Wife” has been canceled after one season at HBO, Variety has confirmed.
The series was based on the book of the same name by Audrey Niffenegger. The six-episode first and only season debuted on HBO in May with the finale airing on June 19.
“Though HBO will not be moving forward with a second season of ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife,’ it was our privilege to partner with master storytellers Steven Moffat and David Nutter,” an HBO spokesperson said in a statement. “We are so grateful for their passion, hard work and care for adapting this beloved book. We also thank Theo and Rose, and the rest of our brilliant cast for their heartfelt performances, which completely captivated audiences.”
The series starred Rose Leslie as Clare Abshire, Theo James as Henry DeTamble, Desmin Borges as Gomez, and Natasha Lopez as Charisse. Like in the book, the story followed Clare and Henry,...
The series was based on the book of the same name by Audrey Niffenegger. The six-episode first and only season debuted on HBO in May with the finale airing on June 19.
“Though HBO will not be moving forward with a second season of ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife,’ it was our privilege to partner with master storytellers Steven Moffat and David Nutter,” an HBO spokesperson said in a statement. “We are so grateful for their passion, hard work and care for adapting this beloved book. We also thank Theo and Rose, and the rest of our brilliant cast for their heartfelt performances, which completely captivated audiences.”
The series starred Rose Leslie as Clare Abshire, Theo James as Henry DeTamble, Desmin Borges as Gomez, and Natasha Lopez as Charisse. Like in the book, the story followed Clare and Henry,...
- 7/1/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
This year’s Best Movie/Limited Actress Emmy race is shaping up to be one for the record books, with a strong showing of actresses depicting real-life women in contention. Looking at Gold Derby’s combined odds, 11 of the top 15 spots are taken by performers who are playing such true-to-name nonfiction characters. If we broaden this definition to include characters who are merely inspired by living people, that number changes to 13.
Trending in the top spot, we have Amanda Seyfried portraying Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes in Hulu’s “The Dropout.” Television critic Lucy Mangan with The Guardian refers to Seyfried’s performance as “hugely skillful,” going on to say, “Seyfried makes it all work and keeps our attention – even our sympathy.” The actress is also riding high fresh off of her first Oscar nomination for her performance in 2020’s “Mank,” which can often boost a performer’s Emmy chances.
Following closely behind is Margaret Qualley,...
Trending in the top spot, we have Amanda Seyfried portraying Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes in Hulu’s “The Dropout.” Television critic Lucy Mangan with The Guardian refers to Seyfried’s performance as “hugely skillful,” going on to say, “Seyfried makes it all work and keeps our attention – even our sympathy.” The actress is also riding high fresh off of her first Oscar nomination for her performance in 2020’s “Mank,” which can often boost a performer’s Emmy chances.
Following closely behind is Margaret Qualley,...
- 6/29/2022
- by Hunter K. Taylor and Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
“Only Murders in the Building” was a sleeper hit for Hulu in season one and an awards hit as well, earning three SAG Award nominations, four Critics Choice nominations, three Writers Guild nominations, and three Television Critics Association nominations. So season two had a lot to live up to when it premiered on June 28. Do critics think this spoof of true-crime fanatics is just as worth watching?
As of this writing the “Only Murders in the Building” season 2 reviews average out to a 79 score on MetaCritic based on 20 reviews counted thus far. That includes 19 positive reviews, one review classified as mixed, and none that are outright negative. On Rotten Tomatoes, the second season rates a perfect 100 fresh based on 37 reviews. The Rt critics’ consensus says the show “gets a new lease on life with a knottier sophomore outing that retains the series’ core charm and wit.” Compare that to season one,...
As of this writing the “Only Murders in the Building” season 2 reviews average out to a 79 score on MetaCritic based on 20 reviews counted thus far. That includes 19 positive reviews, one review classified as mixed, and none that are outright negative. On Rotten Tomatoes, the second season rates a perfect 100 fresh based on 37 reviews. The Rt critics’ consensus says the show “gets a new lease on life with a knottier sophomore outing that retains the series’ core charm and wit.” Compare that to season one,...
- 6/28/2022
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
After four weeks in the No. 1 position of Netflix’s Top 10 chart, Season 4 of “Stranger Things” has finally slipped from the top. Season 3 of “The Umbrella Academy” took that position during the June 20-26 viewing window, having premiered on June 22. The series was watched for 124.5 million hours in its first five days of availability on the streamer.
Based on My Chemical Romance lead singer Gerard Way’s comic book series of the same name, “The Umbrella Academy” first debuted on Netflix in 2019. The series follows a group of young superhero siblings, with Season 3 centering the Umbrella Academy’s conflict with a new group called the Sparrow Academy — while an unidentified destructive entity is wreaking havoc in the universe.
“Umbrella Academy” Season 3 was highly anticipated, as Netflix announced in March that Elliot Page’s character, previously known as Vanya Hargreeves, would come out as transgender and change his name to Viktor.
Based on My Chemical Romance lead singer Gerard Way’s comic book series of the same name, “The Umbrella Academy” first debuted on Netflix in 2019. The series follows a group of young superhero siblings, with Season 3 centering the Umbrella Academy’s conflict with a new group called the Sparrow Academy — while an unidentified destructive entity is wreaking havoc in the universe.
“Umbrella Academy” Season 3 was highly anticipated, as Netflix announced in March that Elliot Page’s character, previously known as Vanya Hargreeves, would come out as transgender and change his name to Viktor.
- 6/28/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
“Only Murders in the Building” star Selena Gomez took a moment during the second season’s red carpet premiere to speak out against the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, effectively ending federal protections for abortion access.
“It’s about voting,” Gomez told Variety. “It’s about getting men — men needing to stand up and also speak against this issue. It’s also the amount of women that are hurting. I’m just not happy and I hope that we can do everything in our power to do something to change that.”
.@SelenaGomez on what Hollywood can do in light of #RoeVsWade getting overturned: "It's about voting, it's about getting men — men needing to stand up and also speak against this issue. It's also the amount of women that are hurting. I'm just not happy." https://t.co/jLjwaGfpcA pic.twitter.com/gsvN27UYFi
— Variety (@Variety) June...
“It’s about voting,” Gomez told Variety. “It’s about getting men — men needing to stand up and also speak against this issue. It’s also the amount of women that are hurting. I’m just not happy and I hope that we can do everything in our power to do something to change that.”
.@SelenaGomez on what Hollywood can do in light of #RoeVsWade getting overturned: "It's about voting, it's about getting men — men needing to stand up and also speak against this issue. It's also the amount of women that are hurting. I'm just not happy." https://t.co/jLjwaGfpcA pic.twitter.com/gsvN27UYFi
— Variety (@Variety) June...
- 6/28/2022
- by J. Kim Murphy and Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
“Swagger” has been renewed for Season 2 at Apple.
The first season debuted on Apple back in October 2021. O’Shea Jackson Jr., Isaiah Hill, Shinelle Azoroh, Quvenzhané Wallis, Caleel Harris, Tristan Mack Wilds, Tessa Ferrer, James Bingham, Solomon Irama, Ozie Nzeribe and Jason Rivera are all set to return for the second season.
“I’m excited to share more of the beautifully complicated lives of these incredible characters,” said creator, showrunner, director and executive producer Reggie Rock Bythewood. “In season two, they will search and discover what it means to be a champion on and off the court, and the basketball playing will continue to be groundbreaking. We are grateful to Apple TV+ for the platform.”
“Swagger” is inspired by NBA star Kevin Durant’s experience in the world of youth basketball. The show delves into the elite world of youth basketball clubs from the perspective of players, coaches, and their families.
The first season debuted on Apple back in October 2021. O’Shea Jackson Jr., Isaiah Hill, Shinelle Azoroh, Quvenzhané Wallis, Caleel Harris, Tristan Mack Wilds, Tessa Ferrer, James Bingham, Solomon Irama, Ozie Nzeribe and Jason Rivera are all set to return for the second season.
“I’m excited to share more of the beautifully complicated lives of these incredible characters,” said creator, showrunner, director and executive producer Reggie Rock Bythewood. “In season two, they will search and discover what it means to be a champion on and off the court, and the basketball playing will continue to be groundbreaking. We are grateful to Apple TV+ for the platform.”
“Swagger” is inspired by NBA star Kevin Durant’s experience in the world of youth basketball. The show delves into the elite world of youth basketball clubs from the perspective of players, coaches, and their families.
- 6/15/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Anthony Anderson will not be returning for Season 22 of “Law & Order,” Variety has confirmed.
Anderson signed a one-year deal when NBC relaunched the series for its 21st season this year, and has decided not to continue as Detective Kevin Bernard in the procedural drama’s next season. Original series star Sam Waterston, who plays Jack McCoy, also only signed a one-year deal, but it is not yet clear if he has chosen to continue or depart the famed franchise.
“Law & Order” and spinoff “Law & Order: Organized Crime” were both recently renewed for new seasons on May 10. The Dick Wolf show originally premiere on NBC in 1990 and ran for 20 seasons until it was canceled in 2010. However, NBC announced the series’ revival in September 2021, with Season 21 premiering in February. Continuing its original bifurcated format, “Law & Order’ pledges to tell the story of “the police who investigate crime and...
Anderson signed a one-year deal when NBC relaunched the series for its 21st season this year, and has decided not to continue as Detective Kevin Bernard in the procedural drama’s next season. Original series star Sam Waterston, who plays Jack McCoy, also only signed a one-year deal, but it is not yet clear if he has chosen to continue or depart the famed franchise.
“Law & Order” and spinoff “Law & Order: Organized Crime” were both recently renewed for new seasons on May 10. The Dick Wolf show originally premiere on NBC in 1990 and ran for 20 seasons until it was canceled in 2010. However, NBC announced the series’ revival in September 2021, with Season 21 premiering in February. Continuing its original bifurcated format, “Law & Order’ pledges to tell the story of “the police who investigate crime and...
- 5/27/2022
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has been nominated for 72 Southern California Journalism Awards, including best website, two for print journalist of the year, three for entertainment journalist of the year, and six for criticism of TV, music and books.
The awards, given out by the Los Angeles Press Club, honor outstanding journalism in the region across print, digital, radio and broadcast platforms.
Executive editor Ramin Setoodeh and deputy music editor Jem Aswad are both up for print journalist of the year. TV critic Daniel D’Addario, chief film critic Owen Gleiberman and senior writer/chief music critic Chris Willman are all nominated for entertainment journalist of the year. And Variety had a whopping three nominees for music criticism including Steven Gaydos, Gleiberman and Aswad. Chief TV critic Caroline Framke and D’Addario were also both nominated for criticism of television honors.
Aswad leads all Variety staffers with 14 total nominations, followed by Willman with eight nominations.
The awards, given out by the Los Angeles Press Club, honor outstanding journalism in the region across print, digital, radio and broadcast platforms.
Executive editor Ramin Setoodeh and deputy music editor Jem Aswad are both up for print journalist of the year. TV critic Daniel D’Addario, chief film critic Owen Gleiberman and senior writer/chief music critic Chris Willman are all nominated for entertainment journalist of the year. And Variety had a whopping three nominees for music criticism including Steven Gaydos, Gleiberman and Aswad. Chief TV critic Caroline Framke and D’Addario were also both nominated for criticism of television honors.
Aswad leads all Variety staffers with 14 total nominations, followed by Willman with eight nominations.
- 5/23/2022
- by Meredith Woerner
- Variety Film + TV
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