Will Smith says that a sequel to his 2007 film, I Am Legend, is officially in the works with Michael B. Jordan. He provided the latest update on the long-awaited project during an appearance at the Red Sea International Film Festival on Saturday. He says that the two will be discussing the film on a call on Sunday.
“I have a call with Michael B. Jordan tomorrow. We’re really close, script just came in,” Smith said. “You have to be a real ‘I Am Legend’ buff to know this, but in the first, theatrical version, my character dies, but on the DVD there was an alternate version of the ending where my character lived. We are going with the mythology of the DVD version. I can’t tell you anything more, but Michael B. Jordan is in.”
Will Smith Arrives At The Red Sea International Film Festival
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – NOVEMBER 30: Chairwoman of the Red Sea International Film Festival Jomana Alrashid , Will Smith and Ceo of the Red Sea International Film Festival Mohammed Al Turki and attend the Opening Night screening of “HWJN” at the Red Sea International Film Festival 2023 on November 30, 2023 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images for The Red Sea International Film Festival)
The original I Am Legend finished 2007 as one of the biggest films of the year, earning $585 million at the global box office. The movie marked the third feature-film adaptation of Richard Matheson’s 1954 novel of the same name.
Elsewhere during Saturday’s discussion, Smith discussed the “tons of mistakes” he’s made throughout his life, admitting that he’s “deeply human.” “Fame is a unique monster. You can’t get too excited when people say good things about you because then when people say bad things about you, you struggle and suffer more. I have to be clear about who I am and what I am attempting to do in the world,” he said. “I have to be clear about who I am and what I am attempting to do in the world, I cannot depend on others applauding me for me to stay focused on my mission. And at the same time, I am deeply human. And I am in the process of perfecting my virtue.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Will Smith and I Am Legend 2 on HotNewHipHop.
From Variety, Michael B. Jordan is returning to the director’s chair. Hollywood producer Irwin Winkler,of famed “Rocky” and successful “Creed” franchises, recently revealed the fourth film is in development with Jordan poised to direct in this latest spinoff of the iconic “Rocky” film series.
Jordan’s first shot at directing was for “Creed III,” where he returned in his role leading role as heavyweight champion, Adonis Creed. Jonathan Majors starred opposite Jordan as Damian Anderson, the antagonist who faced off against Creed in the ring. “Creed III,” hit theaters in March, and landed with a knockout punch, setting an opening weekend record for the franchise with a strong debut of $58 million. Notably, the first three movies of the franchise combined for over $663 million worldwide.
In the first two “Creed” films, Sylvester Stallone starred alongside Jordan as Rocky Balboa, mentoring Adonis, the son of his former rival turned best friend Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers). “Creed 3” was the first installment in the series sans Stallone.
Variety reported in March Jordan and Amazon were in talks for both a film and television series expanding the “Creed” universe. Although details were not known, sources indicated that Prime Video may be a home to the franchise after Amazon’s acquisition of MGM.
Deadline first reported the news of “Creed 4,” with a clip on X (formerly Twitter) of Winkler announcing the film.
Winkler said “We’re planning to do ‘Creed 4’ right now — it’s in the works — and we think we have a really good story, a really good plot because of the strike, like everybody else,”
“Probably a year from now we’re going for pre-production.”
At Deadline’s Contenders Film: Los Angeles event, Winkler further mentioned the undeniable success of the “Rocky” franchise, which opened the door wide open for the “Creed” spinoff.
“Michael and the creative team had the beautiful vision from the start to create a wholly new and different experience for this movie,” Winkler said. “It had to be firmly cemented in what we all [know] the ‘Creed’ and ‘Rocky’ movies for… it had to have great action, boxing, but we also really examined what kind of movie we were making.”
He went on to add “And a lot of that, those early days with Michael were spent crafting how we were looking at the Damian character, which is why I think everyone responded to the depth, not only on the page, but also on the screen. You spend half the movie having deep sympathy for him and understanding his vulnerability.”
Michael B. Jordan will once again be stepping into the director’s chair for the next installment in the Creed franchise. Producer Irwin Winkler confirmed the news during Deadline’s Contenders Film: Los Angeles event on Saturday, praising Jordan for doing a “great job” on the last film. In addition to directing, Jordan will still star in the movie.
“We are planning to do Creed IV right now,” Winkler said onstage during a panel for Creed III. “We have a really good story [and] a really good plot. We got a little delayed because of the strikes, but about a year from now we’re going into pre-production.”
Irwin Winkler at Deadline Contenders Film: Los Angeles held at the Director’s Guild of America on November 18, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Deadline via Getty Images)
Jordan made his directorial debut with Creed III. While he’s opted to do so again with the next film, Jordan did previously admit that it was a difficult task. While speaking with Collider, last year, he described it as “torture.” “It’s torture, but at the same time, it’s so much fun. It was the challenge of accomplishing it all, with the multitasking nature of developing the story, trying to stay in shape, and giving all the departments what they individually needed, to go do their job,” he told the outlet.
He continued: “It’s really hard to put into words. Every day was a struggle, but honestly, it was the team of people that I had around me that got me through it. You’ve really gotta surround yourself with the right help, so that you can focus on the things you need to focus on. Sometimes that’s doing two things at one time, or three things at one time. It’s just part of the job. Once you step behind the camera, the undertaking that it is, from the outside looking in, it’s tough.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Michael B. Jordan and Creed IV on HotNewHipHop.
Bre Tiesi has worked in the industry as a model for years now, but since welcoming her first child with Nick Cannon, the black-haired beauty has been offered more opportunities than ever before. When she’s not taking care of little Legendary Love, Tiesi appears on Netflix’s Selling Sunset, a reality series depicting the lives of luxury real estate salespeople. The mother of one is a new addition to the cast, but she’s certainly made her presence felt throughout the seventh season – particularly with her confession about sleeping with Michael B. Jordan.
“I could do that — and I’ve done that,” the 32-year-old spilled when a co-star admitted the Hollywood heartthrob was her dream celebrity hook-up. “Oh! Oh, my god! I wanna live through that vagina right now!” Emma Hernan giddily reacted to the news. Despite her jealousy, Tiesi shared on Wednesday (November 15) night’s reunion episode that her experience getting intimate with Jordan was surprisingly lacklustre.
While hooked up to a lie detector test, Tiesi answered questions from host Tan France. “Is Michael B. Jordan good in bed?” he eagerly inquired. “I’m going to be in so much trouble,” the multi-talent giggled before shaking her head and admitting, “No.” After examining the polygraph results, Bre was determined to be telling the truth. “I’m sorry, babe,” she apologized to those she disappointed with the news. “S**t. I crushed a lot of girls’ dreams today.”
Michael B. Jordan likely doesn’t plan on hitting up Bre Tiesi for another hookup anytime soon. However, now that his ex Lori Harvey is a single woman again, we’re curious to see if the Black Panther actor has any interest in spinning the block. He linked up with her step-father, Steve, a few weeks back, proving there’s at least no bad blood between the two men. Read more about that at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
Michael B. Jordan and Steve Harvey were all smiles as they caught up at the NBA Abu Dhabi Games this week. The pair were seen chatting and embracing at the event, suggesting there’s no bad blood between the two. While it’s never been implied that there’s beef, Jordan was dating Harvey’s daughter Lori until the summer of last year. While a reason for the split has never been given, Lori did mention “red flags” in several cryptic posts after the breakup went down. However, it’s also been said that Jordan was ready to settle down while Harvey wasn’t.
Steve himself joked about the breakup after it happened. Speaking on his radio show a few days after it went down, Harvey joked that his kids were teaching him how to get out of relationships early. He also referenced his infamous divorce from his ex-wife Mary. Harvey was sued for $60M by his ex in 2005. However, the lawsuit went nowhere as Mary hadn’t filed it in the state where the divorce occurred.
However, NBA games in the Middle East aren’t the only sporting antics Harvey has been up to as of late. Harvey also got in on the ribbing of Stephen A. Smith after the First Take host’s terrible first pitch at a Yankees game last month. “Brother, man, I love you, dog. But I could not believe what I saw. Listen man, I don’t know if anyone who has called in today has actually thrown out a first pitch. I have thrown out a first pitch, at a Cubs game. I walked up to the mound, I’m actually 10, 12 years older than you, I leaned up back, I put some pepper on it. What you did yesterday…oh my god,” Steve Harvey said during a minute-long rant at Smith.
Elsewhere, Jay-Z reportedly texted Smith after his pitch. According to Smith, the rapper texted him a picture of an article discussing Smith’s picture with a collection of sad face emojis attached. “He’s supposed to be my guy,” Smith said sadly. Furthermore, Derek Jeter reportedly told Smith “don’t mess this up” before the pitch. After the pitch, Jeter called Smith back and told him to claim he was playing “cricket not baseball”.
Chloe Bailey says she has had a crush on Michael B. Jordan for years but refuses to shoot her shot at the iconic actor. She explained her hesitation during an upcoming interview on The Dotty Show for Apple Music.
“I’ll say it. Michael B. Jordan,” she admitted. “That’s my celebrity crush. I’ve been said that in interviews even like years ago.” From there, she explained that she’s held off on DMing him because she doesn’t want to force anything. “No. I don’t shoot my shot,” she added. “God will bring my blessings to me when they’re supposed to be here. When we try to force it, we could block other blessings.”
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 20: Chloe performs on Day 2 of the 2023 Sol Blume Festival at Discovery Park on August 20, 2023 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Steve Jennings/Getty Images)
Fans weren’t surprised by Chloe’s pick. “I’m telling you once you see Michael b Jordan in person you instantly fall in love he’s everything fr,” one wrote under the clip. Another added: “Yesssssss, for 5 years now I have been imagining them being together, damn!!! the universe better align for my Chloe baby.” It’s not the first time that Chloe has admitted her interest in Michael B. Jordan. Back in 2020, she noted in an interview, as caught by AllHipHop, that her and her sister, Halle, were into both Black Panther stars. “Halle wanted Chadwick Boseman and I wanted Michael B. Jordan,” Chloe shared at the time. Check out her latest comments on her celebrity crush below.
While Chloe is single, Halle has been in a relationship with DDG. Speaking with Cosmopolitan for a recent interview, Halle admitted that the two are in “love” and that emotion has been inspiring for her new music. She’s currently preparing for the release of her debut EP as a solo artist. Be on the lookout for further updates on the love lives of both sisters on HotNewHipHop.
Drake and Michael B. Jordan made a surprising move by investing in the Brooklyn Aces, one of the 24 teams in the new Major League Pickleball League. The announcement has sparked excitement among sports enthusiasts and investors while also drawing criticism from some civilians who have expressed their displeasure with the sport’s growing popularity. The […]
The Brooklyn Aces, an up-and-coming Major League Pickleball (MLP by Margaritaville) team, has welcomed a star-studded group of new investors. The roster of investors includes OVO Sound owner and 5x Grammy-award winning artist Drake, actor and entrepreneur Michael B Jordan, UnitedMasters and Translation Founder and CEO Steve Stoute, and more.
With these influential figures from the entertainment, sports, and business worlds on board, the Brooklyn Aces is dedicated to engaging with the pickleball community, boosting the team’s brand presence, and supporting Aces athletes in the upcoming season.
“We’re thrilled to have this incredible group of investors join the Brooklyn Aces as we continue to grow the team and raise the profile of Major League Pickleball as a whole,” said Boardroom CEO and Aces majority owner Rich Kleiman. “In addition to the marketing and creative acumen that Michael B. Jordan, Drake, and Steve Stoute bring to the table, our investor group includes some of the savviest entrepreneurs in the business. We’re looking forward to what our second season brings.”
In a bid to foster community spirit in New York City and beyond, the Brooklyn Aces will host their first youth-focused community event, “Aces Day of Play,” in collaboration with PowerPlay NYC. This event aims to introduce the growing sport to an underserved community while promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
Fans can look forward to seeing the Aces in action during their next MLP tournament in Peachtree Corners, GA, from September 21 to 24. The team’s lineup includes top-ranked players Catherine Parenteau, Andrea Koop, Hayden Patriquin, and Tyler Loong, with Samin Odhwani returning as General Manager for the second season.
The 2023 BET Awards will be held on June 25, and the ceremony is set to take place in Los Angeles, California. Nominations have been announced, and the Best Actor Award is up for grabs by many notable names. Seven incredible actors are nominated, and it’s anyone’s guess who will take home the coveted trophy. The award covers both television and film work, making for an even tighter competition.
Will Smith is the current holder, winning for his performance in the biopic King Richard. Michael B. Jordan and Denzel Washington are the actors with the most wins in this category, with three each. Jordan has the chance to break this tie, as he’s up for his sixth nomination for his work in Creed III. Actors Amin Joseph and Lil Meech have each received the first nods in the category, joining the other nominees. The award covers one or multiple acting performances during the eligibility period, so while some actors may be nominated for one role, others may score nods for multiple performances. Here are the nominees for the BET Award for Best Actor.
Amin Joseph
Since the premiere of Snowfall in 2017, Amin Joseph has been praised for his role as Jerome Saint, the uncle of main character Franklin Saint. After his work on the series for six seasons, Joseph has finally received his first Best Actor nomination at the 2023 BET Awards. His nod is well deserved; his work in the sixth and final season was met with particular acclaim.
Brian Tyree Henry
Brian Tyree Henry’s nomination in this category is thanks to not one but three of his impeccable performances in 2022. The actor received rave reviews for his acting in the final season of Atlanta. His role as “Paper Boi” has garnered acclaim since the show’s premiere in 2016. Furthermore, Henry was lauded for his hilarious performance in the action comedy thriller Bullet Train where he starred as Lemon, a British assassin. Finally, his work in the drama Causeway also received highly positive reviews, making him a trifecta nominee.
Damson Idris
Damson Idris has starred as young drug lord Franklin Saint for an outstanding six seasons on the crime drama, Snowfall. He and the show have both been well-received by fans and critics alike. Idris has also now earned three Best Actor nominations for his work on the show. The 2023 BET Awards will mark the third year in a row that Idris has been up for the coveted trophy. Additionally, he is up for the award alongside his co-star Amin Joseph, who stars as his uncle, Jerome Saint.
Daniel Kaluuya
Thanks to his team-up with Jordan Peele once again in Nope, Daniel Kaluuya has earned another nod at the BET Awards for Best Actor. This marks his third nomination in the category. In 2018, he was nominated for his work in Black Panther and Get Out, while he scored another nomination for starring as real-life Black Panther leader Fred Hampton in the biographical drama Judas and the Black Messiah. Kaluuya, alongside his co-star Keke Palmer received great praise for their work in Nope. The pair, who played siblings, offered contrasting performances while still captivating viewers in their own way.
Demetrius ‘Lil Meech’ Flenory Jr.
Demetrius Flenory Jr. is popularly referred to by his rap moniker Lil Meech. Since 2021, he has starred in the biographical crime drama BMF, or Black Mafia Family. The series is also executive produced by 50 Cent. In BMF, Lil Meech stars as his own real-life father, Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory. Lil Meech has thanked his father and 50 Cent for the opportunity to take on the role. The actor and rapper has also shared that his Big Meech has seen and appreciates his work on the show.
Donald Glover
With his work on the final season of Atlanta, Donald Glover has scored his third Best Actor nomination. The actor received back-to-back nods in 2017 and 2018 for his role as Earnest Marks in the comedy-drama. Throughout the series’ four-season run, Glover has won numerous awards as the lead actor and creator of the show. He has also won a BET for his work as Childish Gambino, taking home the Video of the Year Award for his groundbreaking single “This Is America.”
Michael B. Jordan
Michael B. Jordan has now been nominated six times in the Best Actor category. He’s also tied with Denzel Washington as the actor with the most wins, with three each. Jordan’s nod this year comes from his career-defining turn in Creed III, which also served as his directorial debut. The film received positive reviews for its direction, storyline, and acting. His previous wins were for his roles in both Creed and Creed II, as well as his performance in Just Mercy. Creed III has also been nominated for Best Movie at the 2023 BET Awards, so Jordan is up for another potential win in another category.
As The Wire celebrates its 21st anniversary since its premiere in June 2002, several cast members from the acclaimed show have gone on to achieve notable success in their careers. SOHH takes a look at where some of the other beloved cast members of The Wire are now. Julito McCollum McCollom, who portrayed Namond Price […]
