Netflix has released the first trailer for The Vince Staples Show, depicting a day in the life of the Long Beach rapper. Scenes from the show that it previews include a chase through the Del Amo Swap Meet, a greedy uncle asking for money at a picnic, and a confrontation with a water park mascot. Oh, and Vince gets recognized during a Dead Presidents-inspired bank robbery. The man lives a fascinating life.
The Vince Staples Show, which is billed for release on February 15, continues the series of slice-of-life vignettes from the original YouTube episodes, which find the “Magic” rapper caught up in all sorts of misadventures in and around his hometown. In the original episodes, a trip to the barbershop turns into a gang fight, while Vince seeks refuge and wisdom from his hero Ray J as his angry girlfriend seeks a confrontation.
The show initially debuted in 2019, and in 2022, Netflix announced its partnership with Staples to bring the show to the service. The delay might have been troublesome for some fans, but it did give Staples a chance to raise his public profile and hone his already quite sharp comedy chops. Since then, he’s released a pair of albums that hewed more closely to convention and put him on the Billboard charts, and appeared in a guest role on the Emmy-winning Abbott Elementary, making him more of a household name.
The Vince Staples Show will stream on Netflix on 2/15.
A few years ago, Vince Staples began promoting something called The Vince Staples Show. At first, it seemed as though it was a new musical project he was preparing to release, paired with a series of funny vignettes about life in Long Beach and the surrounding Los Angeles County. The first two episodes included standalone songs “So What” and “Sheet Music” and revolved around a violent trip to the barbershop and a visit with Vince’s hero Ray J.
However, after only two episodes, the project mysteriously vanished; in its place, Staples released two albums — a self-titled album produced by Kenny Beats and Ramona Park Broke My Heart, his most accessible project to date — and appeared in a role on Abbott Elementary, tickling fans’ funny bones and breaking their hearts as Tyler James Williams’ Gregory’s romantic rival for Quinta Brunson’s Janine’s affections. Still, in September of 2022, it was announced that Staples had entered a partnership with Netflix to produce a scripted comedy alongside Black-ish creator Kenya Barris. Ian Edelman, writer/director on How to Make It in America and The After Party, director Calmatic, and Vince’s manager Corey Smith were all listed as producers.
Since then, two major entertainment industry strikes delayed further announcements, and we’ve had yet to hear more about the project. But today, Staples, then Netflix, both posted cryptic but promising tweets, suggesting that the release date may be coming sooner than later — perhaps with the trailer that Staples promised would be coming tomorrow.
Netflix has released Champion, a gripping drama created by best-selling author Candice Carty-Williams, known for her acclaimed novel Queenie. The series is now available for streaming, offering viewers an immersive experience with an ensemble cast.
Déja J Bowens makes an exciting TV debut, sharing the screen with talents like Malcolm Kamulete (Top Boy, Ill Manors), music sensation Ray BLK in her TV debut, Nadine Marshall (Sherwood, Small Axe), Ray Fearon (His Dark Materials, Beauty and the Beast), and Jo Martin (Doctor Who, Top Boy). The diverse cast includes Kerim Hassan, Adeyinka Akinrinade, Tom Forbes, Genesis Lynea, Karl Collins, Francis Lovehall, Corey Weekes, Rachel Adedeji, and more.
Champion weaves a compelling narrative, drawing audiences into a world of drama and poignant storytelling. Including seasoned performers and fresh faces promises a dynamic viewing experience.
The series logline reads:
Champion is the first TV project for Candice Carty-Williams, author of The Sunday Times bestselling novel Queenie. A love letter to Black British music set in south London, Champion is a celebration of a sound that has long been the beating heart of our culture and features original music by Ray BLK, Ghetts, Shola Ama, M1llionz, Toddla T, MNEK and more.
On Wednesday (Jan. 10) Netflix’s highly anticipated film, The Kitchen, hosted an exclusive screening at The Roxy Cinema in New York. The event featured a post-screening conversation with co-director Daniel Kaluuya and lead star Kane Robinson, expertly moderated by Jasmine Simpkins from Hip Hollywood.
In attendance were notable personalities such as Dave East, Maino, Brian “B Dot” Miller, and Elliott Wilson. The screening provided a sneak peek into the film’s compelling narrative and the talent behind its creation.
The film’s logline reads:
In a dystopian London, the gap between rich and poor has been stretched to its limits. All forms of social housing have been eradicated and only The Kitchen remains. A community that refuses to move out of the place they call home. This is where we meet a solitary Izi, living here by necessity and desperately trying to find a way out, and a 12-year-old Benji, who has lost his mother and is searching for a family. We follow our unlikely pair as they struggle to forge a relationship in a system that is stacked against them.
Fans and film enthusiasts can mark their calendars as “The Kitchen” will be released on Netflix on Friday, Jan. 19, offering a thrilling cinematic experience with a stellar cast and captivating storyline.
In 1986, visionary filmmaker Spike Lee introduced the world to Nola Darling and her complex love life in the groundbreaking film, She’s Gotta Have It. Decades later, Lee revisited his iconic work. He brought the characters to the small screen as a Netflix series in 2017. The show not only rekindled interest in Nola’s unique journey, but also sparked a global conversation. Furthermore, it put a spotlight on the talented cast that brought the new versions of the characters to life. Let’s take a look at where these stars are today.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 17: DeWanda Wise attends the Los Angeles special screening of Netflix’s “Someone Great” at ArcLight Hollywood on April 17, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
Dewanda Wise stepped into the shoes of the fierce and independent Nola Darling, captivating audiences with her powerful performance. Since her breakthrough role in She’s Gotta Have It, Wise has continued to make waves in the entertainment industry. She starred in the supernatural drama series The Twilight Zone and made appearances in films like Someone Great, Fatherhood, and Jurassic World Dominion. She is also set to star in the upcoming supernatural horror film Imaginary. Wise’s undeniable talent and charisma have solidified her status as a rising star in Hollywood, and she’s finally receiving her flowers.
Anthony Ramos (Mars Blackmon)
LONDON, ENGLAND – JUNE 07: Anthony Ramos attends the European Premiere of Paramount Pictures’ “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” at Cineworld Cinemas on June 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by John Phillips/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)
Anthony Ramos portrayed the energetic and charismatic Mars Blackmon. He has experienced a meteoric rise in his career since his breakout in Hamilton. After She’s Gotta Have It, Ramos appeared in the series Will and Grace and also voiced Tito in the animated series Elena Of Avalor. He has also taken on prominent roles in major films like A Star Is Born, Honest Thief, and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, proving himself as a versatile actor. Ramos will also be starring in the upcoming Marvel series Ironheart.
Cleo Anthony (Greer Childs)
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – JANUARY 06: Cleo Anthony attends Vanity Fair x Instagram Celebrate the New Class of Entertainers at Mel’s Diner on Golden Globes Weekend at Mel’s Diner on January 6, 2018 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Donato Sardella/Getty Images for Vanity Fair/Instagram)
Cleo Anthony portrayed the suave and sophisticated Greer Childs in the series. Following his stint on She’s Gotta Have It, Anthony continued to build his acting portfolio. He appeared in the drama Sex/Life and showcased his talent in the action thriller The Prey: Legend of Karnoctus. Anthony’s dedication to his craft has positioned him as a promising actor in the industry.
TORONTO, ON – MARCH 09: Actor Lyriq Bent, winner of best actor in a leading roll attends the Canadian Screen Awards at Westin Harbour Castle Hotel on March 9, 2016 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Isaiah Trickey/FilmMagic)
Lyriq Bent, who brought Jamie Overstreet to life, has enjoyed a successful career after She’s Gotta Have It ended. With an impressive filmography, including roles in series like Mary Kills People, Long Slow Exhale, and Delilah. He also appeared in Acrimony, which brought him a great deal of attention as well. Bent has proven himself as a versatile actor capable of tackling a range of characters.
Chyna Layne (Shemekka Epps)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 08: Chyna Layne attends the Power Book III: Raising Kanan Season Two Tastemaker event at Bowery Hotel Terrace on August 08, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Sean Zanni/Getty Images for STARZ)
Chyna Layne portrayed the aspiring artist and Nola Darling’s best friend Shemekka Epps, whose journey resonated with many viewers. Since the show’s conclusion, Layne has continued to take strides in the entertainment industry. Her talent has shone in films like We Are Family and The First Purge. She is also starring in the legal drama Judge Me Not. Layne has also demonstrated her ability to take on emotionally charged roles with finesse.
Margot Bingham (Clorinda Bradford)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 12: Actor Margot Bingham attends the AOL Build Presents series at AOL Studios In New York on April 12, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images)
Margot Bingham, who played Clorinda Bradford, has continued to make waves in the industry. Known for her versatile talents, Bingham has appeared in series such as Blue Bloods, One Dollar, and New Amsterdam. Her filmography since She’s Gotta Have It includes projects like Sunday Church, A Vigilante, and Then Came You. Bingham’s commitment to diverse roles showcases her ability to bring depth and authenticity to every character she portrays.
Joie Lee (Septima)
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 29: Joie Lee attends the 2014 BAMcinemaFest closing night party at Hill Country Barbecue Market on June 29, 2014 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Noam Galai/WireImage)
Joie Lee portrayed Nola’s mother in the series. The veteran actress is a multifaceted talent who has not only contributed to the success of many Spike Lee projects but has also made her mark in the entertainment world. She is an accomplished actress, screenwriter, and producer. Since the end of She’s Gotta Have It, Lee has appeared in projects like Broad City, Farewell Armor,and Harlem.
Dave Chappelle reflected on meeting Lil Nas X during his newest stand-up special for Netflix. He says the rapper approached him at a party and asked why he refused to be in one of his music videos. Chappelle didn’t specify what video Nas was referring to while also claiming not to know what he was talking about.
“I know a dreamer when I see one and I’ve met many powerful dreamers in my life — none more powerful than the man who calls himself Lil Nas X,” Chappelle begins. “I met this n***a at a party; I had no idea who he was. But the minute he walked in that party, I knew I was in his dream. Everybody in the party was another dreamer. Everyone was famous. But when that n***a walked in, he was dressed like C-3PO. He was shining! Everyone was like, ‘Oh my God, there he is! That’s Lil Nas X!’ I didn’t know who he was.”
Dave Chappelle Attends De La Soul’s The D.A.I.S.Y. Experience
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 02: Dave Chappelle attends De La Soul’s The DA.I.S.Y. Experience, produced in conjunction with Amazon Music, at Webster Hall on March 02, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for Amazon)
Chappelle concluded: “For some reason, out of all them dreamers, he walked right up to me. And he said, ‘I tried to get you in my video.’ I didn’t know what the f*ck he was talking about. I said, ‘What video?’ And he just looked at me like, ‘You know what video,’ and walked away. And I watched him walk away. I said, ‘Man, this n***a is having a very powerful dream.’” Check out his full bit on the incident below.
Chappelle’s The Dreamer is his seventh special for Netflix in the six years he’s been working with the streaming platform. Elsewhere in the routine, he addresses his relationship with the trans community, disabled people, and more. Be on the lookout for further updates on Dave Chappelle and Lil Nas X on HotNewHipHop.
As long as Dave Chappelle has jokes, the LGBTQ community will be a target. In his new Netflix special, The Dreamer, Chappelle not only targeted the trans community but had some habs for the disabled community as well.
“If you guys came here to this show tonight thinking that I’m going to make fun of those people [trans people] again, you’ve come to the wrong show,” Chappelle said. “I’m not fucking with those people anymore. It wasn’t worth the trouble. I ain’t saying shit about them. Maybe three or four times tonight, but that’s it.
“I’m tired of talking about them. And you want to know why I’m tired of talking about them? Because these people acted like I needed them to be funny. Well, that’s ridiculous. I don’t need you. I got a whole new angle coming. You guys will never see this shit coming.”
What was the angle? Jokes about the disabled community because, as Chappelle sees it, “They are not as organized as the gays. And I love punching down.”
You can see the trailer for the special below and see it in full on Netflix.
Stranger Things, the hit Netflix series created by the Duffer Brothers, took the world by storm when it premiered in 2016. The show’s unique blend of ’80s nostalgia, supernatural mysteries, and a talented ensemble cast made it an instant fan favorite. As the series progressed over time and through multiple seasons, viewers became invested in the characters and the young actors who portrayed them. Now, as we enter the final season, it’s time to take a look at how far these actors have come in their careers.
Millie Bobby Brown
OSAKA, JAPAN – MAY 06: Millie Bobby Brown speaks during the celebrity talk event at Osaka Comic Con 2023 on May 6, 2023 in Osaka, Japan. (Photo by Jun Sato/WireImage)
The British actress gained widespread acclaim for her portrayal of Eleven, the telekinetic girl with a shaved head. She has continued to shine in the entertainment industry. In addition to reprising her role in Stranger Things, Brown has ventured into film. She has starred in projects like Godzilla: King of the Monsters and Enola Holmes. She is also set to star in the 2024 film Damsel. Her impressive acting skills and charismatic presence have solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s rising stars. In April 2023, Millie Bobby Brown announced her engagement to Jake Bongiovi.
Finn Wolfhard
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – MAY 14: Finn Wolfhard attends Netflix’s “Stranger Things” Season 4 New York Premiere at Netflix Brooklyn on May 14, 2022 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images)
Finn Wolfhard, who played the role of Mike Wheeler, the leader of the gang, has seamlessly transitioned from the small to the big screen. The Canadian actor has since then starred in films like Ghostbusters: Afterlife, The Turning, and the critically acclaimed horror film It. He has also showcased his musical talents as the frontman of the band The Aubreys. Overall, Wolfhard’s talents have made him a sought-after actor in the industry. He also officially confirmed his relationship with Elsie Richter in 2021. Since then, the two have kept their relationship on the down-low.
Gaten Matarazzo
SANTA MONICA, CA – JUNE 16: Actor Gaten Matarazzo attends the 2018 MTV Movie And TV Awards at Barker Hangar on June 16, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for MTV)
Galen Matarazzo is best for his endearing portrayal of the lovable Dustin Henderson on Stranger Things. He has also maintained a steady presence in the entertainment world. Besides his work on Stranger Things, the American actor hosted the hidden-camera prank show Prank Encounters for three years. He also starred in the films The Christmas Chronicles, The Angry Birds Movie 2, and Honor Society. Moreover, Matarazzo is also known in the musical scene. He appeared in the Broadway shows Les Miserables and Dear Evan Hansen. Further, Matarazzo has been involved in several philanthropic efforts, using his platform to raise awareness about cleidocranial dysplasia, a condition he lives with. In the case of his love life, the actor has been going steady for five years with his girlfriend, Lizzy Yu.
Caleb McLaughlin
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 26: Caleb McLaughlin attends the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza on February 26, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/FilmMagic)
Caleb McLaughlin, who portrayed the pragmatic and outspoken Lucas Sinclair, has expanded his horizons beyond Stranger Things. In addition to his continued role in the series, McLaughlin appeared in films like Dora and the Lost City, Shooting Stars, and the critically acclaimed film Concrete Cowboy. The actor has also voiced various characters in animated shows such as Summer Camp Island, Ultra City Smiths, and The Boys Presents: Diabolical. Besides his acting career, he made his music debut in 2020 with the EP Youthful Exuberance.
Noah Schnapp
Noah Schnapp at the 2023 CMT Music Awards held at Moody Center on April 2, 2023 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty Images)
Known for his portrayal of Will Byers, Noah Schnapp has continued to showcase his acting prowess. His talent extends beyond Stranger Things with roles in films such as Abe, Hubbie Halloween, Waiting for Anya, and The Tutor. He also voiced Charlie Brown in The Peanuts Movie. This has solidified his place as a young actor with a promising future.
In 2023, the actor came out as gay in a TikTok video he posted. In the same year, he received enormous backlash for his mockery of the Palestinians regarding the conflict. Because of this, some fans have called for the boycotting of StrangerThings ahead of its final season.
Sadie Sink
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 29: Sadie Sink attends “The Whale” New York Screening at Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center on November 29, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)
Sadie Sink joined the Stranger Things cast in the second season as Max Mayfield, the new girl in town. Her career has flourished since then with roles in films like Eli, Fear Street, Dear Zoe, and The Whale. Her performances have showcased her versatility, and she has evidently become a rising star in the industry. The actress is set to star in the thriller film Berlin Nobody.
Natalia Dyer
MADRID, SPAIN – MAY 18: Actress Natalia Dyer attends the ‘Stranger Things’ season 4 premiere at the Callao Cinema on May 18, 2022 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images)
The American actress who played Nancy Wheeler has successfully navigated her career post-Stranger Things. Dyer has been in films like Yes, God, Yes, Tuscaloosa, All Fun and Games, and Chestnut. The actress also appeared briefly in the thriller series Based on a True Story. Dyer has proved her versatility and ability to take on challenging roles in both independent and mainstream projects. She and her Stranger Things co-star Charlie Heaton are in a relationship.
Charlie Heaton
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 27: Charlie Heaton attends as Netflix Hosts “Stranger Things” Los Angeles FYSEE Event at Netflix FYSee Space on May 27, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Known for his role as Jonathan Byers, the protective brother, Heaton has broken out since the first season of Stranger Things. The actor’s filmography includes projects like The New Mutants, Marrowbone, The Souvenir Part II, and No Future. Heaton has one child from his past relationship with Akiko Matsuura. The actor is currently dating Stranger Things co-star Natalia Dyer.
Joe Keery
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 29: Actor Joe Keery attends the Build Series to discuss the Netflix show ‘Stranger Things 2’ at Build Studio on November 29, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Daniel Zuchnik/WireImage)
Joe Keery has transitioned smoothly into a variety of projects since portraying Steve Harrington in Stranger Things. The actor has made notable appearances in films like Molly’s Game, Spree, Free Guy, and Finally Dawn. He also emerges in the fifth season of the series Fargo. Additionally, the actor is set to star in two upcoming films: Marmalade and Cold Storage. Beyond his acting pursuits, Keery is a musician under the stage name Djo. He is a neo-psychedelic, rock, and indie rock musician.
Maya Hawke
CANNES, FRANCE – MAY 24: Maya Hawke attends the “Asteroid City” photocall at the 76th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 24, 2023 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Lionel Hahn/Getty Images)
Maya Hawke, who joined the cast as Robin Buckley in the third season of Stranger Things has quickly become a standout talent. Since her breakthrough performance in the series, she has showcased her acting and musical abilities in films such as Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Fear Street: Part One- 1994, Do Revenge, and Asteroid City. Embracing her musical talents, she has released two albums- Blush and Moss. Her parents are Hollywood icons, Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman.
The trailer for Dave Chappelle’s upcoming comedy special, The Dreamer, is now available. The elite narraration skills of Morgan Freeman introduce the trailer.
“What do you dream about? Not the dreams you have in your sleep: the ones you hold in your heart. Don’t be intimidated by the audacity of your dream — be inspired by it,” Freeman says. “What happens to a dream deferred? Lucky for Dave, he doesn’t know.”
You can see the trailer below.
Trailer of Dave Chappelle’s netflix special The Dreamer, available December 31st. Narrated by Morgan Freeman. pic.twitter.com/2eRnn5Z5rS
As reported on Blavity, Daniel Kaluuya (Get Out, Black Panther) is stepping into the big chair for his directorial debut in Netflix’s Th Kitchen. Actually he shared director duties with Kibwe Tavares (Jonah) and co-penned the script alongside Joe Murtagh (Gangs of London).
Don’t let the title throw you for a loop as the synopsis reads, “In a dystopian London, the gap between rich and poor has been stretched to its limits. All forms of social housing have been eradicated and only The Kitchen remains. A community that refuses to move out of the place they call home. This is where we meet a solitary Izi, living here by necessity and desperately trying to find a way out, and a 12-year-old Benji, who has lost his mother and is searching for a family. We follow our unlikely pair as they struggle to forge a relationship in a system that is stacked against them.”
The Kitchen stars Top Boy alum Kane Robinson, Jedaiah Bannerman, Ian Wright, Hope Ikpoku Jr, Cristale, BackRoad Gee, Teija Kabs, Demmy Ladipo.
As exclusively reported by Shadow and Act the Get Out star said, “This story is set in an oppressed world but it’s about the people who live there and their resilient inner life. No matter how much the class system dims and dehumanizes, with this film the light of our togetherness, community and humanity shines through.”
Co-Director Tavares added, “I’m very excited for audiences to see The Kitchen. Having grown up in London, the film really is a love letter to the city. It meant a lot to have Netflix’s support in making The Kitchen. It’s been such a journey from script to screen and I really wanted to make something fresh, thoughtful, and cinematic and I am so proud of the final film.”
The film debuts January 19 on Netflix and includes features music from Labrinth and Alex Baranowski.
