What’s up folks? We’re back at it again with another edition of our Black Hollywood Wrap Up where we highlight some fun news from our faves that you might have missed this week.
Suggested Reading
We’re gonna kick things off with some mega-star power that sees “The Color Purple” collaborators Colman Domingo and Oprah teaming back up for the audio adaptation of his acclaimed play Wild With Happy.
Winfrey joins previously announced cast Abbott Elementary’s Tyler James Williams, Sharon Washington and Alex Newell.
The play’s description per Dramatsist Play Services: “Gil, an actor who’s struggling to carve out his own new life, finds his worlds colliding when his mother dies and he decides to have her cremated. But where should he scatter the ashes? And can he make a fairytale ending for her in the one place that made her WILD WITH HAPPY?”
In a statement to People, Domingo said:
“Reuniting with Sharon Washington and welcoming Oprah Winfrey, Alex Newell, and Tyler James Williams to this ensemble is a dream come true.
Wild with Happy is about everything that is absurd yet comical about life and death. These themes are perfect to explore in the intimacy of audio, and I’m thrilled to be adapting my play for this medium with the visionary team at Audible. Just as audio is a space for limitless possibilities, so too is the desire to be ‘wild with happy,’ and I can’t wait for listeners around the globe to join us on this surreal ride.”
Usher’s Reign Just Won’t Let Up
In news that can only be described a “YEAH!”—Usher was just announced as this year’s recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 BET Awards. It was also announced that he’ll also be receiving the the ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award. The Voice of the Culture Award is presented to ASCAP members who have had a major influence on music and culture. The honor recognizes their success both as creators and changemakers, according to Billboard. And if you needed any more reason to celebrate Usher, you can see him when he headlines this year’s ESSENCE Fest down in New Orleans.
Victoria Monét is the Newest Vanguard
Alongside Usher, “On My Mama” singer Victoria Monét will also be honored with the ASCAP Vanguard Award. The Vanguard Award is presented in recognition of ASCAP members whose innovative work is helping to shape the future of music, per Billboard.
“Victoria Monét has proven herself not only as an illuminating songwriter, but also as a flourishing artist and ASCAP member who continues to break barriers,” said ASCAP Chairman of the Board Paul Williams in a statement to the outlet. “Her resilience, talent, and exemplary work ethic have helped her become a multi-award-winning singer and songwriter.”
Black Girls Rock Says “Hell Yes” to Danielle Brooks
Another year, another opportunity to celebrate Black Girl Magic! And what better way to do it than the annual Black Girls Rock award show. Taking place in Atlanta, the beloved organization announced its host for this year’s festivities and it’s none other than “The Color Purple” star Danielle Brooks, per Vibe.
This year’s honorees include: Tracee Ellis Ross (the Star Power Award); Gina Prince-Bythewood (the Shot Caller Award); Fantasia (the Black Girl Magic Award); Aurora James (the Boss Up Award); Stephanie Mills (the Living Legend Award); Maya Penn ( the Young, Gifted and Black Award); and Latham Thomas (the Community Change Agent Award).
Kerry Washington Is About to Get More Scandalous in New Movie Role
Popular murder mystery franchise Knives Out is coming back to the big and small screen for its third iteration and their adding one might scandalous actor to the bunch: Scandal star Kerry Washington.
While her role is undisclosed, she’ll be joining an illustrious cast including Glenn Close, Mila Kunis, Challengers’ Josh O’Connor, Marvel star Jeremy Renner, and Andrew Scott, per Variety.
“This one is going to be GOOD,” Washington wrote on X/Twitter sharing the news.
Rome Flynn Is About to Get Gangsta
From getting away with murders to being the New York City’s newest drug kingpin, How to Get Away With Murder star Rome Flynn is set to appear as famed druglord Frank Lucas in Godfather of Harlem, starring Forest Whitaker.
“I’m filled with gratitude! Thrilled to be a part of the Godfather of Harlem universe and breathe new life into the legend of Frank Lucas. I have so much admiration for Forest Whitaker. Working opposite him, being led by the brilliant creator Chris Brancato, is truly a gift. An actor’s dream,” he told Deadline.
Da’Vine Joy Randolph Gets a Glimpse of Eternity
Fresh off her Oscar win in March, The Holdovers star Da’Vine Joy Randolph is set to star opposite Marvel star Elizabeth Olsen in A24's upcoming indie film Eternity. Though much isn’t known about her role, the film is described as “ as a romantic comedy in which characters must decide who they want to spend eternity with,” per Variety. Production is slated to begin this summer.
Mahershala Ali Switches From Blade to Dinosaurs
Amid the many hurdles Marvel’s Blade starring Mahershala Ali is undergoing, it appears the actor will still be getting his feel for scary creatures anyhow.
Per The Hollywood Reporter, the “Leave the World Behind Star” is in talks to star in the next Jurassic World film, opposite Scarlet Johansson. It’s slated for a July 2025 release.
Audra McDonald Gets Back to Broadway
Multi-Tony Award-winning actress Audra McDonald is about to show us all what it means to be a true thespian on stage. Per People, she’s set to take on the revival of popular play Gypsy. In doing so, she becomes the first Black woman to take on the lead role of Rose. George C. Wolfe is set to direct with performances to begin Nov. 21. The official premiere is set for Dec. 19, tickets are now on sale, per People.
Vince Staples Is Coming-Coming, Back-Back to Netflix
If you thought season one of the Vince Staples Show wasn’t enough to get your laughs in, then boy do I have good news for you. The show has officially been renewed for a second season.
“The ‘Vince Staples Show’ is back!” Staples said in a statement to Variety. “The people have spoken and the most riveting, captivating, and polarizing show on Netflix is returning for season 2. Get ready for hijinks that only a mother can love. Thank you, Netflix!”
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