Peacock’s limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist packed a punch with a star-studded panel and closing night party at Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival.
The evening kicked off with beats from DJ Trauma ahead of the festival’s founders, Stephanie and Floyd Rance, who introduced the closing night programming starting with POWER OF LEGACY AND INFLUENCE: A CONVERSATION WITH WILL PACKER — a retrospective discussion between the series’ executive producer Will Packer and journalist Danielle Cadet, held on Roc Nation’s Lenny Santiago’s iconic gold couch.
The sold-out screening of Peacock’s Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist screened for the first time, and the audience then heard from Will Packer, showrunner, creator, and executive producer Shaye Ogbonna, and cast members Taraji P. Henson, Don Cheadle and Chloe Bailey, moderated by journalist Tiffany Cross.
After the screening, Peacock hosted the Closing Night Party of the festival at The Loft with notable guests including singer song-writer, Ledisi, actor Glynn Turman, President of MSNBC, Rashida Jones, actress Lynn Whitfield, best-selling author and television personality Elaine Welteroth, and more who celebrated with Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist cast and executive producers ahead of the premiere on Peacock on September 5th.
On top of impressing fans with his “Final Lap” tour, 50 Cent has been hard at work on another project, this time focusing his efforts on the small screen. Recently, he announced an upcoming true crime documentary, TikTok Star Murders. The doc will cover the tragic story of Ana Marie Abulaban, a 28-year-old content creator who was murdered by her husband Ali Abulaban. She and her alleged lover, Rayburn Barron, were shot and killed in October of 2021. Last month, Ali was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder for the shooting.
TikTok Star Murders will reportedly feature never-before-seen cellphone footage, audio, and more. It will also include interviews with close family members and friends of the former couple. The doc will become available for streaming exclusively on Peacock on June 25.
50 Cent Announces TikTok Star Murders: Watch Trailer
Fif is an executive producer of the upcoming documentary, along with George Plamondon, Zak Weisfeld, Libby Richman, and Elizabeth Fisher. 50 Cent took to Instagram yesterday to tease his latest project, urging fans to tune in when it drops later this month. “There is a point where facts are stranger than fiction,” he wrote. “TikTok Star Murders is next level you have to check me out.” He even hinted that a scripted version could be coming soon, and expressed interest in comedian and actor Andrew Schulz playing the lead. Schulz doesn’t seem opposed to the idea, so long as it’s created at Fif’s new G-Unit Film & TV Studio in Shreveport, LA.
What do you think of 50 Cent announcing his upcoming true crime documentary, TikTok Star Murders? Are you looking forward to watching it on Peacock when it finally hits the streaming service on June 25? What about him teasing a potential scripted version of the film starring comedian Andrew Schulz? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Bel-Air, the popular series on Peacock, is gearing up for its Season 3 premiere on August 15. The new season promises to delve into compelling questions about identity, opportunity, and family trust.
With three new episodes debuting at launch, Season 3 of Bel-Air will explore themes such as proving oneself in a world of limitations, venturing beyond comfort zones for new opportunities, and rebuilding fractured familial relationships.
The show continues its tradition of offering a culturally rich perspective, addressing issues like gentrification in South LA and its impact on the community. The writing team drew inspiration from their experiences to craft relatable stories that resonate with viewers.
Executive Producer Chris Collins expressed excitement about the upcoming season, highlighting the Banks family’s relatability and struggles. Despite their aspirational lifestyle, the show remains grounded in themes of love and compassion, aiming to portray the complexities of family dynamics.
Fans can anticipate a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant Season 3 of Bel-Air as it returns with new episodes this August. Stay tuned for more updates and insights into the beloved series.
The first trailer for Kings From Queens, a documentary about Run-D.M.C., has been Threleased online. The trailer for the Peacock series features a wealth of hip-hop royalty discussing the impact of the pioneering rap group. “They’re the reason that hip-hop is as big as it is right now,” Ice Cube asserts. “They changed the sound of music, the audience for rap music,” Mike D of the Beastie Boys adds.
The series is not just another documentary about an influence group, however. The series is being executive produced by Rev Run and DMC themselves. “This documentary series will reach, teach and educate people on the Run-D.M.C. dynamic. I know people will see themselves in our journey and I am hopefully that the next 50 years of hip-hop will be a movement of positive improvement and creativity, in the same way we changed music and the world,” DMC said in a statement. The series will drop later this year.
However, Kings from Queens is far from the only hip-hop documentary in the works. Last year, Steph Curry‘s production company, Unanimous Media, has begun work on a documentary about Bay Area music icon Mac Dre. “Mac Dre is a cultural icon who made a tremendous impact on the Bay Area and beyond through his music and pioneering creativity. We’re honored to work with Mac Dre’s incredible mother, Wanda, to tell her son’s life story with respect and dignity for fans, the Bay Area community, and music lovers alike,” Curry and Unanimous co-founder told Billboard.
Meanwhile, the aforementioned Wanda also spoke with Billboard. “I look forward to sharing how from Andre’s dreams of rapping emerged a blueprint that not only inspired a generation but also became a guide to conquering obstacles and fulfilling their entrepreneurial dreams,” she told the outlet. Mac Dre was a pioneer of the Hyphy movement of the early 2000s. However, he was shot and killed in a drive-by attack on Route 71 in 2004.
Peacock has announced the release of a three-part hip-hop documentary series titled Kings From Queens: The RUN DMC Story. Produced by Believe Entertainment Group, the series delves into the influential journey of the iconic hip-hop pioneers RUN DMC.
Taking viewers back to the 1980s, the docuseries explores how Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell revolutionized the music scene, not only in Queens but globally.
Featuring exclusive interviews with RUN DMC and prominent figures in hip-hop such as Ice Cube, LL COOL J, Questlove, and more, the documentary unveils the untold story of the group. The narrative touches on their cultural impact, breaking racial barriers, and becoming international stars and fashion leaders in the ’80s.
“I am very happy that the world is going to see our great story,” said artist and executive producer, Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons. “So thankful for all that participated in helping us over the years. I started out as a young DJ Run and ended up impacting the world with my group RUN DMC. I am blessed to have been on this amazing journey.”
Artist and executive producer Darryl “DMC” McDaniels added, “This documentary series will reach, teach and educate people on the RUN DMC dynamic. I know people will see themselves in our journey and I am hopefully that the next 50 years of Hip Hop will be a movement of positive improvement and creativity, in the same way we changed music and the world.”
Kings From Queens: The RUN DMC Story is set to premiere on Thursday, February 1, 2024, with a runtime of 3 x 60 minutes. Directed by Kirk Fraser, the series is executive produced by Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and others, promising an in-depth look at the groundbreaking journey of the legendary rap group.
Multiplatinum, 12-time Grammy® Award-winner John Legend shares a new single entitled “Don’t Need To Sleep” out today via Republic Records. It soars as a standout from theWe Dare To Dream Soundtrack available on all DSPs. Executive produced by EGOT® superstar Legend and Academy® Award winner Angelina Jolie, the acclaimed 2023 Tribeca Festival selection and refugee sports documentary, We Dare To Dream, is now streaming exclusively on Peacock.
Legend notably co-wrote “Don’t Need To Sleep” with Justin Tranter and Oak Felder—who also produced the song. On the track, soft strings unspool underneath striking and soulful verses punctuated by piano. It culminates on the climactic chorus as he reminds, “Don’t need to sleep to dream.”
Be on the lookout for a powerful music video to accompany the song soon.
The magic of the holiday season remains potent, and households across the globe look forward to the end of 2023. Between Halloween in October, Thanksgiving in November, and Christmas in December, there’s plenty of seasonal cheer in the final quarter of each year. Although it’s a time to spend time with loved ones, the ever-growing number of streaming subscribers anticipate new and classic holiday flicks. As a result, many holiday-themed movies have set up camp on Peacock.
Netflix also boasts some fun holiday movies, and Peacock is slowly catching up. Over the years, several classics have been released, as well as many more modest offerings. However, while some of these films can be quite unoriginal, they are almost never lacking in heart and cheer. Here’s a selection of some of the best and most entertaining holiday movies available on Peacock right now.
While this is not the most critically acclaimed offering out there, it is a good Christmas movie with a ton of heart nonetheless. A Stone Cold Christmas is an urban retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol, and features a predominantly Black cast. The story revolves around Mia Stone (played by Demetria McKinney), a successful businesswoman known for her tough and no-nonsense attitude. Further into the story, her icy exterior begins to melt, and eventually, she opens up her heart to the joy of Christmas.
12 Days Of Christmas Eve stars Steven Weber in the lead role. He portrays the character Calvin Carter, a self-absorbed businessman who is more concerned about his career than his relationships. The story unfolds on Christmas Eve when Calvin finds himself stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day repeatedly. Basically, Calvin’s predicament befalls him to teach a lesson about the importance of kindness and empathy. Over the course of the story, he is given 12 chances to right his wrongs and mend his fractured relationships. Molly Shannon stars in a supporting role as the Angel who oversees Calvin’s “rehabilitation.” The cast and story of this movie are also charming and endearing. 12 Days of Christmas Eve is certainly one of the movies you should see on Peacock this holiday season.
5. Almost Christmas (2016)
Previously titled A Meyers Christmas, this hilarious comedy-drama film directed by David E. Talbert, revolves around the dysfunctional Meyers family. Following the death of their beloved matriarch, they come together to celebrate their first Christmas after her passing. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Gabrielle Union, Kimberly Elise, Mo’nique, Danny Glover, and Romany Malco, among others.
Initially, as the family members reunite, old grudges and sibling rivalries, among other things, resurface, consequently leading to comedic situations. Subsequently, in the five days they spend together, they mend their relationships and rediscover the bond they share as a family. One of the holiday movies perfect for either Thanksgiving or Christmas, Almost Christmas should surely be on your Peacock watchlist this season.
4. One Special Night (1999)
Veteran actors and frequent collaborators Julie Andrews and James Garner play the two central characters in One Special Night. The story takes place between Thanksgiving and Christmas and follows the lives of two lonely individuals who find unexpected companionship and love. As the story unfolds, Robert (played by Garner) and Catherine (played by Andrews) form a deep emotional connection. One Special Night is a poignant tale that reminds viewers of the magic of the holiday season. Likewise, it brings to mind the potential for love to blossom in unexpected places.
Set against the snowy backdrop of Finland, this dark fantasy movie offers a fresh and twisted take on the traditional Christmas tale. The story revolves around young Pietari Kontio, who discovers the dark secret behind the legend of Santa Claus. As children in a nearby village go missing, and reindeer are found slaughtered, Pietari starts to piece together the truth. Unlike most other Christmas tales, Rare Exports skillfully combines elements of horror, fantasy, and dark comedy. In short, Rare Exports is a standout entry in the genre of unconventional holiday movies and is available to stream on Peacock.
2. This Christmas (2007)
This Christmas revolves around the Whitfield family, who come together to celebrate Christmas under one roof for the first time in years. The film explores the dynamics of their relationships at length, uncovering many family secrets along the way. Also, the challenges and joys that come with being together during the holiday season are equally revealed. This Christmas features impressive performances from Loretta Devine, Regina King, and Idris Elba, among others. Chris Brown also showed off his musical chops in the movie, as well as his acting skills. Overall, the movie has the perfect blend of humor, drama, and romance, and also features a great soundtrack. What’s not to love?
1. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
George Seaton’s 1947 classic is everything a holiday movie should be. The story’s central character is Kris Kringle (played by the late Edmund Gwenn). Kringle is a kind-hearted elderly man who claims to be the real Saint Claus and eventually gets people to believe it too. Gwen’s portrayal of the character earned him numerous accolades, and rightly so. The film explores themes of faith, belief, and the importance of imagination. Furthermore, it is widely celebrated for its heartwarming story, strong performances, and timeless message. Miracle on 34th Street is undoubtedly one of the best holiday movies available on Peacock right now.
Will Smith has always had a tumultuous journey with fame. While he himself skyrocketed to success as both an actor and a rapper in the 90s, he didn’t have a fully famous family until later on. According to Page Six, he sat down on a recent episode of Kevin Hart’s interview show Hart To Heart and discussed family matters. Smith referred to 2010 as his greatest year as both an artist and a parent. He cited Jaden’s film Karate Kid and Willow’s song “Whip My Hair” as major accomplishments that released in 2010. “I’m building this dream of a family I’ve had in my mind. I’m going to do it better than my father did it.” Smith says on the show.
Pretty much 2010 to 2012 I had achieved everything I had ever dreamed,” Will Smith elaborated. Despite how successful he felt for himself and his family he also admits it didn’t make them happier. “Nobody in my family was happy,” he explains later in the show. He compared the family’s fame to a “platoon” and decried that eventually, nobody wanted to be a part of it. “Willow was the first one to begin the mutiny and it was my first realization that success and money don’t mean happiness.” He concludes the interview reflecting on the lesson that taught him. “Up until that point, I really believed that you could succeed your way to a house and a family and you could win your way to happiness.”
Will Smith Opens Up On His Famous Family
Earlier this year Will Smith and Martin Lawrence took to social media to announce that Bad Boys 4 was officially coming. A few months later they were spotted filming some scenes for the movie in Atlanta. Unsurprisingly those shots featured mostly car chases and shootouts. Since then, new updates on the film’s progress have been pretty difficult to come by. Many have wondered if either of the ongoing strikes could impact its release.
What do you think of Will Smith opening up on his families issues with fame? Let us know in the comment section below.
Twisted Metal is a highly anticipated American post-apocalyptic action-comedy television series slated for release on the streaming service Peacock. Michael Jonathan Smith developed the show, taking inspiration from the vehicular combat video game franchise of the same name, published by Sony Interactive Entertainment.
Release Date
Peacock plans to air the series on July 27, 2023, with a scheduled 10-episode season. The cast and crew filmed the series in New Orleans between May and August 2022. Sony Pictures Television and Playstation Productions began developing the series in May 19 (viaIGN). Peacock subsequently ordered the full season in February 2022.
The first trailer for the series was released on April 28, 2023, and featured Anthony Mackie, who plays the lead role of John Doe, revving up his engine in the barren wasteland that is the setting of the show.
Cast And Characters
HOLLYWOOD, CA – MARCH 13: Anthony Mackie arrives at the Los Angeles premiere of “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” held at the El Capitan Theatre on March 13, 2014 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Michael Tran/FilmMagic)
The series boasts a stellar cast that includes Anthony Mackie, Stephanie Beatriz, Thomas Haden Church, Samoa Joe, Will Arnett, and Richard Cabral. Mackie stars as John Doe, a loquacious milkman who suffers from amnesia. Beatriz portrays Quiet, an impulsive car thief who assists John Doe in his mission. Church plays the role of Agent Stone. Meanwhile. while Samoa Joe and Will Arnett team up to bring the character of Sweet Tooth to life. Joe physically plays the role and Arnett provides the voice. Lastly, Richard Cabral portrays a character known as Loud.
In addition to the main cast, the series also features recurring roles played by Neve Campbell, Tahj Vaughans, Mike Mitchell, Lou Beatty Jr., Michael Carollo, and Chloe Fineman.
The storyline of Twisted Metal revolves around John Doe, who is given the task of travel across a post-apocalyptic wasteland to deliver a mysterious package to stay alive. Assisted by Quiet, John Doe seizes the opportunity to alter his life for the better. However, to achieve his goal, he must confront merciless marauders who pilot deadly and destructive vehicles. The journey promises intense action, high-speed chases, and a test of survival in a world gone mad.
Twisted Metal is shaping up to be an exciting addition to Peacock’s lineup of shows. Thanks to its unique premise, talented cast, and connection to a beloved video game franchise, Twisted Metal is shaping up to live up to the anticipation. Fans of the games and newcomers alike can look forward to the series premiere on July 27, 2023.
As Chlöe’s debut solo album In Piecesfinds its way onto the Billboard charts, the rising star’s new movie Praise This is now streaming on Peacock. The movie, which follows a gospel praise team as they enter a national competition, features a number of gospel covers of pop and R&B hits, including a cleaned-up version of Cardi B’s 2018 hit “Money” by contemporary Christian singer Koryn Hawthorne.
Gospel singer Koryn Hawthorne puts a praising twist on Cardi B’s song “Money” in the newly released Peacock movie, #PraiseThis. pic.twitter.com/binDofWkmj
Where Cardi’s original version celebrates getting “Money,” Hawthorne adds religious messaging but keeps the spirited flow that took the original all the way to No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. Hawthorne celebrated the film’s release with a tweet capturing Cardi’s reaction to hearing the remix in the studio. In the video, Cardi can be seen beaming from ear to ear as she throws her hands and sings along to the revamped lyrics.
Praise This is getting a more uniformly positive reception from fans than In Pieces did; it’s likely that the gospel-centric film resonates more strongly with the tastes of many of Chlöe’s earliest supporters. (Chlöe made her film debut in her mentor Beyoncé’s similarly gospel-inspired film Fighting Temptations, and that first impression has clearly stuck with fans who aren’t feeling the young singer’s shift to a more mainstream sound.)
Chlöe addressed that criticism recently on her hometown radio, positing that her loudest critics actually weren’t around for her and her sister Halle’s humble beginnings. The truth is, many artists often face harsh criticisms as they grow creatively, and if anything, it’s a sign that people are truly invested. That’s a good sign for Chlöe’s burgeoning career, as it means no matter what direction she decides to pursue, she’s at least guaranteed a captive audience.
Praise This is out now on Peacock. In Pieces is also out now via Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records. Find more information here.
(@ToddBullockNYC) 
my girl said she really felt the spirit 
Y’all check out my version of money in the movie