Interview with AleXa

TV Interview!

"American Song Contest" winner AleXa on finals night 5/9/22

Interview with AleXa of “American Song Contest” on NBC by Suzanne 5/9/22

After a few months of this music competition show, a winner was finally chosen! K-Pop singer AleXa of Oklahoma took the award for best American Song.  We interviewed her after the show. She was very happy… as you will see in the video. I’ll admit she wasn’t my top favorite, but I’m glad she won because she has a lot of talent and a good song.

MORE INFO:

AleXa with Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson on "American Song Contest" on NBCAmerica’s biggest live entertainment event has arrived! Based on the worldwide phenomenon “Eurovision Song Contest,” organized for 65 years by the European Broadcasting Union and watched by 200 million viewers annually, this amazing musical spectacular combines the competitive spirit of rooting for your favorite sports team with the joy of watching a beloved singing performance.

In the U.S. version of the international megahit, “American Song Contest” will feature live original musical performances, representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital, competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. The 56 artists span a wide range of performers – from undiscovered talent, up-and-coming new artists, and rising stars to established and legendary icons. An incredible solo artist, duo, group or band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America.

Hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, the eight-week live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

“American Song Contest” is executive produced by Propagate’s Ben Silverman and Howard T. Owens, alongside Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson and Gregory Lipstone as well as American Song Contest, Inc.’s Anders Lenhoff, Christer Björkman, Peter Settman and Ola Melzig. Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson also serve as executive producers.

The series is produced by Propagate in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, and American Song Contest, Inc.

Hashtag: #AmericanSongContest

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Grand Final” Episode 108 -- Pictured: AleXa (OK) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)Oklahoma: AleXa

State: Oklahoma
Singer’s name: AleXa
Hometown: Tulsa, Oklahoma
Resident: Seoul, South Korea

Proud to represent the state where she was born and raised until the age of 21, Alex Christine, known professionally as AleXa (알렉사), is a K-pop singer, dancer and songwriter who grew up in Tulsa. A lifelong dancer, AleXa was first drawn to K-pop because of its strong performance identity. After nearly a million fan votes determined her the winner of online talent competition Rising Legends, she was one of the 96 chosen to participate in “Produce 48,” the most competitive audition show in Korea. In 2019, AleXa made her multilingual K-pop debut with “Bomb,” which has received nearly 22 million views to date and hit #7 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart. A year later AleXa released extended plays “Do Or Die” and “Decoherence,” garnering wins for two of Korea’s most prestigious awards. In 2021, AleXa released Y2K-inspired “ReviveR” with dance track “Xtra,” performed the national anthem for the Los Angeles Dodgers and became the first K-pop artist to host a fan meeting in the metaverse within the action shooter game Scavengers.

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AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Grand Final” Episode 108 -- Pictured: AleXa (OK) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Interview with Tonya Pinkins

TV Interview!

Tonya Pinkins, from her Instagram, 12/16/22

Interview with Tonya Pinkins of “All My Children” and many other shows by Suzanne 5/5/22

I’m very honored to have interviewed Tonya because she is an amazing actress who started out on soaps many years ago and was also a Broadway star (and Tony winner!) as well as becoming a great actress on many TV series such as “Fear the Walking Dead,” “Madam Secretary,” “Women of the Movement,” and my personal favorite, “Gotham,” where she played the creepy Mrs. Peabody.  Now she’s also become a film creator with her new movie “Red Pill.” You can rent it on Amazon!

Tonya’s first soap job was playing Heather on “As the World Turns,” and then she went on to “All My Children” for the epic role of Livia Frye Cudahy, off and on from 1991-2009. That’s the main reason I wanted to speak with her because I used to watch her on that, and we have a great All My Children page.  She is also an amazing singer who’s been acting and singing on Broadway since 1981, and she won a Tony for her role in “Jelly’s Last Jam” (as well as having been nominated 2 other times). She also does concerts, and she really is a very soulful singer. Oh, and she’s been my Facebook friend for many years because she’s the type of person that interacts with her fans.

She decided to finance, write and direct her own horror movie, “Red Pill” during the pandemic. I really don’t think there’s anything she can’t do. I could easily have chatted with her for hours about other aspects of her career, but we mostly talked about the soaps, singing and “Red Pill.”

I hope you enjoy our Zoom interview! We will be putting up a transcript at some point.

MORE INFO:

Tony Pinkins as Cassadra in "Red Pill"From IMDB: Tonya Pinkins has won or been nominated for nearly every award there is in the American theater. She is a Fulbright Specialist. As a producer, writer and director she conceived “Truth and Reconciliation of Womyn; Narrative Stories and Songs for the Soul in ten minutes or less.” The women involved in this project span the globe in age, culture and ethnicity.

From Wikipedia:

Tonya Pinkins (born May 30, 1962) is an American actress and filmmaker. Her award-winning debut feature film RED PILL was an official selection at the 2021 Pan African Film Festival, won the Best Black Lives Matter Feature and Best First Feature at The Mykonos International Film Festival, Best First Feature at the Luléa Film Festival, and is nominated for awards in numerous festivals around the globe. Her web-series The RED PILLING of AMERICA can be heard on her podcast “You Can’t Say That!” at BPN.fm/ycst

She is known for her portrayal of Livia Frye on the soap opera All My Children and for her roles on Broadway. She has been nominated for three Tony Awards (winning one), and has won Obie, Lortel, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, AUDLECO, Garland, L.A. Drama Critics Circle, Clarence Derwent, and NAACP Theater Awards. She has been nominated for the Olivier, Helen Hayes, Noel, Joseph Jefferson, NAACP Image, Soap Opera Digest, and Ovation Awards. She won the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for Jelly’s Last Jam.

Visit her official website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

poster for "Red Pill"Red Pill Official Site Red Pill Official Trailer

SYNOPSIS

The eve of the 2020 election, a posse of progressives ride into red country armed with heart humor and naiveté.

From the mind of Tony award-winning actress, Tonya Pinkins comes a progressive dystopia nightmare. Shot by cinematographer John Hudak Jr., Red Pill is a visually stunning metaphor for all our fears and a reminder that there are worse things than death.

Cassandra (Tonya Pinkins) is a black American woman fearful for the fate of her country in the next election. Election weekend 2020, she reluctantly accompanies her best friend Rocky, land preserver activist (Ruben Blades) and his wife Emelia (Luba Mason), her roommate Lily (Kathyrn Erbe), friend Nick (Jake O’Flaherty) and partner Bobby (Adesola Osakalumi) to canvas in newly blue Virginia.

As the friends arrive at their “Super-Host” housing, they encounter signs that point to possible trouble and before the weekend is over their fight for the country becomes a fight for their lives.

After you watch the movie, listen to her Audible Book, “Red Pill Unmasked!”

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From Instagram: Tonya outside the theater, where she stars in "A Raisin In the Sun" September, 2022

Interview with Brian Norris

TV Interview!

Actor Brian Norris of "General Hospital"

Interview with Brian Norris of “General Hospital” on ABC by Suzanne 5/11/22

This was a very fun interview! Brian is great to chat with. He plays a very slick, slimy character on GH. He’s played a very wide variety of roles (as most actors do, of course). He’s a really laid-back guy in real life.

MORE INFO:

Actor BRIAN NORRIS Snaps Recurring Role on ABC Daytime TV Drama ‘GENERAL HOSPITAL’

Also Heads to Tribeca Film Festival and Celebrated HBO Series

LOS ANGELES – Actor Brian Norris comes into focus as ‘Paparazzo Felty’ on the long-running fan favorite ABC daytime television drama series, GENERAL HOSPITAL.

Introduced on April 27th, Paparazzo Felty has embarked on Port Charles looking to snap some candid pictures of Sasha Gilmore (Sofia Mattsson), the successful new face of “Deception”. Always aggressive on the job, Felty might just uncover some new sordid secrets as he shoots a few juicy pics.

Norris was excited to join GH, adding “It’s such a family on that show, they really made me feel welcome from my first day. Also, there was a real sense of play throughout and I love the fast-paced nature. It feels like going back to theatre which I missed very much.”

Coming in June, Norris heads to the Tribeca Film Festival with a key supporting role in the premiere of the political thriller feature film, 88. Then later this year, Norris Guest Stars on an award-winning HBO drama series in a recurring role he has been secretly shooting. In addition, he stars in the upcoming black-and-white Hitchcock-style indie thriller feature film Much Goes Up in Flames; and makes a supporting appearance in the musical mockumentary web series Pretty On Pitch.

Most recently, Norris emerged in the newest top selling PlayStation5 game Horizon Forbidden West, and worked with award winning director Sam Barlow on his latest video game Minsky.

Audiences will recognize Norris from his recurring role as the tech visionary ‘Elliot’ in the final season of AMC’s acclaimed Halt and Catch Fire. Prior to this, he served up attitude to A-listers as ‘Hunter’ in DirecTV’s, Full Circle, from playwright/filmmaker Neil LaBute. His notable film and TV credits also include roles on Masters of Sex, Longmire, iZombie, Castle, Mad Men, Awake, Community, Lie to Me, A Thousand Words with Eddie Murphy and many more.

Behind the camera, Norris has taken the reins directing the black comedy short film Square, about two hitmen who reach a moral quandary while disposing of a body; as well as directing and producing the dramatic short Nothing Personal.

In addition, Norris has become an established Acting & Career Coach in Los Angeles with over 10 years’ experience teaching acting classes, audition coaching, and the business of acting.

This Northern California native made his way south to study Theater, Film and Television at the University of California Los Angeles. In 2012, Norris earned an LA Weekly Award nomination for ‘Best Actor’ for his starring role as Jimmy Swan in the world premiere of Samuel Brett Williams’ “The Woodpecker” at Studio/Stage Theater in Hollywood.

For more about BRIAN NORRIS visit: BrianNorrisActing.com

Follow on Twitter: @TheGingerMr / Instagram: @BrianRNorris / Facebook: BRNorris

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Actor Brian Norris of "General Hospital"

Interview with “American Song Contest” performers

TV Interview!

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Semi Finals Part 2” Episode 107— Pictured: (l-r) Snoop Dogg, Kelly Clarkson -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Interview with performers of “American Song Contest” on NBC by Suzanne 5/2/22

This was the virtual red carpet interview for this show’s second semi-finals night. Those of us in the press watch the live show, and then they bring out each of the performers for us to chat with. We typically get one question per performer, although sometimes we can slip in a second one if we’re quick. Sadly, Michael Bolton was not available tonight. We did get everyone else, though. Anyway, while I watch the shows, I always write down their name, where they’re from, and then any possible questions to ask. If I can’t think of any, then I go online and do research. It can be tough sometimes to come up with a question on the spot, even though I’ve been doing this for 14 years. I prefer to think of an unusual or specific question rather than just a generic one. I hope you enjoy these videos! I had a blast. Don’t forget to vote for your favorites Sunday night!

Broderick Jones

He’s definitely one of my favorites because of his great voice. He seemed really nice here, too. To be honest, they all do! They all are so excited and have great energy.

 

Grant Knoche

He’s a great performer and has been performing for a very long time, even at his young age. I think he will go far, regardless of what happens here.

 

Tenelle of American Samoa

She is very enthusiastic and proud of her heritage. I loved hearing her talk about what she was wearing and what it means to her family.

 

John Morgan of North Carolina

This guy is a good singer and songwriter, and he’s already working with big name stars. I don’t think he quite has the star power or song to win this competition, though.

 

Chloe Fredericks of North Dakota

She is very likable, and she seems to have a great life where she balances out work and home life. She’s a good rocker chick!

 

Christian Pagán of Puerto Rico

He is my favorite, and I hope he wins! I really love his song, his energy, his performing, and his story.

 

ENISA of New York

She has a ton of energy and obviously loves what she does, even down to picking out the right costume. She has a great New York attitude, too.

 

Stela Cole of Georgia

This girl is beautiful, but she has a goofiness that makes her more approachable than most beautiful women.  Perhaps that’s because she has a sports background. I’m surprised she isn’t a model, too.

 

Tyler Braden of Tennessee

This guy is a very down-to-earth kind of cowboy dude. I hope he didn’t mind my asking him about wearing his baseball caps.

 

Sweet Taboo of California

It’s funny that these girls are from California because it seems like many of the performers are from more than one state. For instance, Tenelle is really from California, not American Samoa. Tyler Braden is really from Alabama, not Tennesee. I guess they fit the people in where they need them. It was fun to chat with these women and get to know them a little bit. I’m not really into rap music, but they seem like solid performers.

 

MORE INFO:

American Song Contest

Mondays on NBC (8-10 p.m. ET)

America’s biggest live entertainment event has arrived! Based on the worldwide phenomenon “Eurovision Song Contest,” organized for 65 years by the European Broadcasting Union and watched by 200 million viewers annually, this amazing musical spectacular combines the competitive spirit of rooting for your favorite sports team with the joy of watching a beloved singing performance.In the U.S. version of the international megahit, “American Song Contest” will feature live original musical performances, representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital, competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. The 56 artists span a wide range of performers – from undiscovered talent, up-and-coming new artists, and rising stars to established and legendary icons. An incredible solo artist, duo, group or band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America.Hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, the eight-week live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

“American Song Contest” is executive produced by Propagate’s Ben Silverman and Howard T. Owens, alongside Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson and Gregory Lipstone as well as American Song Contest, Inc.’s Anders Lenhoff, Christer Björkman, Peter Settman and Ola Melzig. Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson also serve as executive producers.

The series is produced by Propagate in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, and American Song Contest, Inc.

Hashtag: #AmericanSongContest

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AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “Semi-finals” Episode 107 -- Pictured: (l-r) Snoop Dogg, Kelly Clarkson -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Interview with Galen Gering and Lamon Archey

TV Interview!

Lamon Archey (Eli) on Days of Our Lives on NBC; photo from NBC Galen Gering DAYS OF OUR LIVES -- Season: 55 -- Fifty Fifth Anniversary Portrait -- Pictured: Galen Gering as Rafe Hernandez -- (Photo by: Chris Haston/NBC)

 Interview with Lamon Archey and Galen Gering of “Days of Our Lives” by Suzanne 2/20/22

This was an online fan event called, “Days Of Our Lives Q&A Zoom Salem’s Hottest Cops Lamon Archey & Galen Gering.” Although I’m a journalist, I’m also a fan of “Days of Our Lives” and other soaps, so I was happy to pay a small fee (which goes to charity, anyway) to see these two and ask them a question. It was a lot of fun. I wish I had the chance to ask more questions. Maybe someday I will!

Here is the video of my question. You can’t hear me because of the way it was recorded (you can see me at the top, in the little box, asking it). I asked them what they would like to see their character do that they haven’t done before. They gave great answers! Then, below is the transcript of the entire chat. Thane is also another contributor to our site there, and he asks a question as well.  It was very funny to listen to the actors joke around with each other and the fans, and about their characters.

Moderator:   Okay women, behave.

Woman:   Never.

Woman:   It’s funny the majority of the people that I’m doing the other thing with is mostly female, one guy who’s the lawyer

Woman:   Galen. Hello.

Galen:   Hey, everybody.

[crosstalk]

Woman:   I think he’s driving.

Galen:   He is driving. Is this legal? I don’t know.

Moderator:   Okay, good. We’re just waiting for Lamon.

Galen:   Oh, we could be waiting a long time

Woman:   The last time I saw you on Instagram with Tamara, you were in a car.

Galen:   Oh, my god. That’s so true. By the way, those are the only two times I’ve ever been in a car… on one of these, that is.

Woman:   Are you gonna drink while you’re in your car?

Galen:   I think it’s tequila from yesterday.

Woman:   You’ve been playing golf?

Galen:   Yeah, I went out and played nine holes. I have this big tournament this weekend. So, I had to practice a little bit.

Woman:   You throw any shoes at anybody while they’re trying to make a buck?

Galen:   Oh, you saw that video. You know what’s funny is that was on my birthday last year. Yeah, it was right around my birthday last year. So, not far from that, a year ago today.

Women:   Happy belated birthday.

Galen:   Thank you. Yeah, that’s my buddy [unintelligible] he’s a super funny writer. He’s a stand up comedian, too. But man, he’s the slowest golfer on the planet. And we’re like, “Dude, come on!” He said something like, “You guys. You’ve got to be quiet so I can golf straight.” And then I was like, “Oh, do we?”

Woman:   Congratulations on your Rams winning the Super Bowl.

Galen:   Oh, my god. Thanks. I know. You know, what’s funny is –

Woman:   I wasn’t rooting for them.

Woman:   I was; I rooted for them.

Galen:   I know you were. My 49er girl.

Woman:   Yeah, because they knocked them out of the Super Bowl.

Galen:   I know, what a crazy game. Right?

Woman:   Right. Right. Yeah.

Galen:   Honestly, you know I’ve got love for the 49ers. I lived in Northern California. So, if the Rams weren’t in it, I would totally have been rooting for them. In fact, I was rooting for them when they lost in the Super Bowl a couple years ago. Remember that?

Woman:   Right. Right.

Galen:   That’s two heartbreaks.

Woman:   Yeah, I know. Right? Now, we’re gonna lose Jimmy Garoppolo.

Galen:   Yeah. I mean –

Woman:   He’s gonna go follow Brady.

Woman:   Well, the Niners… they want him to come out of retirement.

Galen:   Oh.

Woman:   Because he’s from here. So, you know, he’s from San Mateo. So, he wouldn’t do that.

Galen:   What do you think the chances of that are?

Woman:   I mean, the sky’s the limit for the guy. I mean, he can do whatever he wants. He can go play with the Niners for a year. Well, I’m sure Giselle wants him home.

Galen:   Oh, yeah. How old are his kids?

Woman:   They’re like 12 and 10, or something like that. They’re young.

Galen:   How many years in the league? 22 is it?

Woman:   Yeah, he’s 22 years. Yeah.

Galen:   I mean, that guy.

Woman:   He’s like a machine. He’s like a machine. He’s amazing.

Galen:   He is a machine.

Woman:   He’s a machine. He’s probably not human. We’re gonna find out he’s a Terminator.

Galen:   I don’t know. I don’t think he’s gonna come back.

Woman:   Well, you never know… you might get bored after you know, a year.

Galen:   Yeah, that’s true. Sorry, I’m just looking for headphones. Ill-prepared. Oh, well.

Woman:   I’d like to talk to and see what Lamon’s thoughts are on it, too, because he’s from San Mateo.

Galen:   He’s from where? San Mateo?

Woman:   He’s from San Mateo.

Galen:   Where is that?

Woman:   It’s It’s near San Francisco. We’re 30 minutes South.

Galen:   No, I mean, where’s Lamon?

[crosstalk]

Woman:   Yeah, I messaged him and haven’t heard anything back yet. Do you want to get started?

Moderator:   Yeah. So we’ll get started and see what happens when Lamon comes on. So, on behalf of Penny and Star Image Entertainment, we would like to thank Galen for taking the time to do this today, especially fresh off the golf course. We really appreciate it. So, first, we’re going to bring up Francis. Francis, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hey, Galen, it’s nice to see you again. I was here the last time you were here.

Galen:   Thank you so much.

Woman:   I actually don’t have a question. I just wanted to say I’m enjoying the storyline. They’re giving you a little bit more storyline lately. So, I’m enjoying it. I’m enjoying it. But yeah, I just wanted to say hi and say thank you for doing this. I remember way back when in your Passions days, that wasn’t yesterday. So, I just want to wish you all the best and just say hi, just basically all I wanted to do was to say hi to you, and thank you for taking the time to do this.

 

Galen:   I know you have a question for me.

Woman:   No, I don’t. You can ask me if you want. You can ask me if you want. I got nothing, honestly, I don’t.

Galen:   Where are you?

Woman:   I’m in Montreal.

Galen:   Okay. Wow. Is it freezing there right now?

Woman:   Oh, yeah. It’s starting to go down, isn’t it, Penny, starting to go down again? It’s starting to go down again. It’s gotten cold. It was like a cold weekend or cold a few days ago. Then it got warm again. Now it’s cold again. So it’s up and down like a yo-yo.

Galen:   Well, thank you for for being here today. It’s so great. I love to see all familiar faces out there. Truly.

Woman:   Yeah. Well, thank you for taking the time to do this. It’s nice that you guys actually take the time to do this.

Galen:   My pleasure.

Woman:   So, you have a good week.

Galen:   Okay.

Moderator:   Thanks, Francis. Next, we’re going to bring up Michelle Liebowitz. Michelle, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hey, Galen, I’m Michelle, I live in Florida. I know you are a big blooper person. What is your most memorable blooper that you could tell us about?

Galen:   That I could tell you about? Well, I’ll tell you guys anything. I feel like the one that’s my favorite one – I’ve told the story of… but I’ll tell you again. And if you’ve heard it, I’ll think of another one. And to be honest with you, the kind of sad part about the whole thing is, I mean, now on Days, so the best bloopers were on Passions. On Passions, we were just out of control. Like, we even have, like, a full-on vendetta against one another as cast mates all the time and against the crew. So, it was crazy.  Like, there was a time I came into my dressing room in the mornings, like seven in the morning. No furniture, nothing. nada, nothing. It was just gone. Didn’t even know where it was. And it was really funny at first… until I was, like, sitting there for, like, two hours on the floor, like, “This is not cool.” But I will say one of my favorite pranks that I pulled was on Chris Douglas. This was on Passions, and he played my brother, Antonio, and he was in a coma for a long time. So, like they always put us in comas on that show, especially if you’ve done something wrong, which we were kind of doing all the time. So, then they would write you in a coma. So, he’s in a coma, and I….. just saw my bike here. – By the way, I have to pick up my bike; remind me when we get off, if anyone has a good memory, to get my bike. – So, at lunchtime, I snuck into the studio, and I put in this thing , it’s called a scat mat, which is designed to keep pets off furniture. So, what happens is the pet would jump up on the furniture, and then it would sense it, and then it would ramp up, and then, I mean, it’s a pretty good shock, like it’s pretty good. So, I put that in his coma bed, and then he got into the bed and was lying there, and all of a sudden he’s like, “Ahhh! You son of a bitch!” I was in the studio laughing, and they had to put these EKG things [on him], you know what I mean? He ripped them off and started chasing me around the studio. That was one of my favorites, just because it was pretty unique. We see all kinds of crazy stuff. We would steal the producer’s car, executive producer Carly’s, and we’d move her car, but somewhere we would fill people’s cars full of fake snow. [It was] just insane. We’re kind of out of control, but it was a lot of fun.

Woman:   That’s awesome.

Galen:   Now we can barely even make a joke. There’s just not time, you know?

Moderator:   Great question, Michelle. Thank you. Next we’re going to bring up Ina. Ina, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hey, Galen.

Galen:   Hey, how are you?

Woman:   Good to see you too. I’m from Staten Island, New York. I guess my question is, I just thought of it, actually, since you’re in the car. What is your favorite car?

Galen:   Ooh, that’s a good question. I don’t have one favorite car per se, but like my son, one of my older sons, he’s super into cars. He’s like, “Dad, why don’t you just have this truck?”…Like he’s really into cars, and so he asked me the same question. He’s like, “Well, what if you could get [your] own sports car or something like that?” For me, I would think something like a really cool vintage – I actually was just looking at this old Ferrari you know, kind of like the Magnum PI, a little different, but just a little kind of like 80s funky style, or even a much older one. Or an all Porsche something like kind of classic like that. My friend was going to borrow my car the other day to go to Mammoth, and he has a McLaren. You guys know what that is? Crazy sports car. The doors opening up on the side. Like they go vertically. It’s like a little rocket ship. And I was like, “Oh, this is pretty cool,” but then I ended up going up there and meeting them and taking my car. So, I didn’t have a car for the weekend, but that would have been fun. But I don’t know. Maybe. Maybe we’ll get something soon.

Woman:   I actually like SUVs. I like trucks.

Galen:   Yeah, me too. I have two boys. And we’re just always throwing bikes, and I’m like, I have to get my bike and throw it in right now.

Moderator:   Thank you. Next we’re gonna bring up Sue [unintelligible]. So, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hi, Galen. What’s up? I’m from Mineola Island New York. [unintelligible] you can’t really see, because I have my picture in the background. That’s my leg by the way, Galen. You can’t really see it, but i have a Days tattoo.

Galen:   Where’s your leg? Oh.

Woman:   So yeah, I’ve been watching the show since I was like seven, eight years old, and I’m going to be 42 on Mother’s Day. So, you know, I can’t help it. I’ve loved the show all my life. I had a question that just left my brain. Okay, I remember now. What’s it been like working like working off between Tamara and Ari, because, I mean, I the storyline’s been, like, killer, between Ava and Nicole and Rafe and stuff? And I really love how you guys are doing it. I know that Soap Opera Digest says that next week or something in the next like week or so they actually come clean to Ava, so I’m wondering, what’s it been like between the two of them and stuff? How’s it been like working with the two of them and everything?

Galen:   Sure. Good question. Honestly, they’re amazing. Like, they’re both very different as people, but great and obviously very talented. I really liked working with Tamara, and, like the Rafe/Ava story. I don’t think that they thought that the couple or sort of like pseudo-couple, for those two was going to work as well as it did. Then, I felt like they thought they were like, “Oh, let’s keep this going for a while and see how it goes,” because it seemed like it was just going to be this like quick thing that was gonna explode, and then ended up staying together for quite a while. So, it was great. And she’s so volatile and she kind of scares the crap out of me. Honestly. I told her she just has this look. She’s like, “[unintelligible].” I’m like, “Yeah, you’re freaking scary. I feel like you would totally stab me in the neck with a pencil or something.” Hilarious. And then Ari, you know, she’s just kind of wild and funny, and Tamara is a little bit more sort of reserved, whatever, but both really fun and talented, and I love when the three of us actually also have scenes together and –

Woman:   It’s a lot of fun watching you guys work off each other it really is.

Galen:   Thanks. Thanks. Yeah.

Woman:   And you do have some time for for bloopers, because [unintelligible] posted a blooper while back of you fucking with Brock Kelly like the whole like David thing. “Where’s David?” You’re like, “It’s the popo!” You guys mess with Brock so bad.

Galen:   That’s right; I do remember that.

Woman:   You kept laughing. But you have some time for jokes. I like when [unintelligible] posts a little bloopers sometimes between all of you. Like, it makes it real for us. Like, you do like mess around; you do have fun. You do mess up every now and again. But it’s cool.

Galen:   Boy, you know, it’s easy. Actually, there are times when I’m not even meaning to do it. I saw some the other day that haven’t aired yet, with Billy Flynn. He and I are just like, it’s like our work. We always just connect with one another on the sort of like, where’s the honesty level, and I was just thinking something. I wasn’t even thinking something funny. So, he has this really intense scene, and he’s coming in to me, to the police station, and then I’m just looking at him, and I’m just checking, and he’s like, “Bro, don’t do that.” And then I’m like, “I’m not even doing anything.” I’m like, “Don’t you do that.” You know? So, then, now he’s got me thinking that I’m doing something to him and accusing me of it now on camera. So, I’m like, maybe I should do something. I don’t really do much of anything. But then he started laughing, and he’s freaking out on set, and then I started laughing. So, I guess we still do have fun, and we just don’t really set up like elaborate pranks, you know what I mean? Before it was like crazy.

Woman:   Yeah Eric Martsolf had mentioned that to me. He’s like, “On Passions, we could just do whatever the hell we wanted to. We’d screw with each other all the time.”

Galen:   Oh, yeah. We would be 5, 6, 7, 8 takes in, and then the producers would get on the microphone, and they’re like yelling at us. “Come on. We’re gonna move your scenes to another day.” And we’d be like, “Okay.” Now it’s like, “Oh, sorry, sorry.” You like mess up once or twice and you feel like you’re holding up the whole day. It’s just different. Well, we still have fun. It’s just different.

Woman:   I really been enjoying your scenes lately. And I can’t thank you enough. I’m sure Rafe gets off from the trumped charges that Ava was set up on him. I know you can’t say anything, but yeah, I’m really enjoying this. I mean, I know I can’t wait for it to come back tomorrow. It’s like, oh, thank God.

Galen:   Oh, yeah. The Olympics are over.

Woman:   Tomorrow. Finally. Thank God. I’m excited. Yay. All right, cool.

Galen:   It’s the closing ceremony tonight.

Woman:   Yeah, it’s it’s great. I’m waiting, and I’m excited to see what you guys have in store for us the next.

Moderator:   Thank you, Susie.

Woman:   Thank you.

Galen:   Thank you.

Moderator:   Next we’re going to bring up Betty Jean. Betty Jean, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hey, Galen. I’m from New Jersey, but I live up here in Nevada City.

Galen:   Yeah, you do.

Woman:   You remember?

Galen:   I do. You’re in your back yard right now?

Woman:   That’s actually my front yard. That’s the water feature in our front yard.

Woman:   Okay. Hold one second Betty Jean, Lamon is here.

Woman:   About time.

Woman:   There he is.

Lamon:   Hello, hello. My apologies for being late. Hi. Hello. I turned off my –

Galen:   Brain?

Lamon:   The whole Wi-Fi, I had turned it off, because it was going so slow. Then, I couldn’t get it back on, but now I’m here.

Woman:   Welcome, Lamon.

Galen:   You must have been panicking.

Lamon:   I was. I was, I was calling Spectrum and everything.

Moderator:   Go ahead, Betty Jean.

Woman:   Galen knows that I live up here in Nevada City. Have you been up in this area at all since you’ve moved away?

Galen:   Oh, yeah, I’ve been there. Man. It’s been a minute though. I’d say probably like, well, you know, time flies. I’d say like, 10 years, but it’s probably more like 15. I’ve been close to there are a lot, but no. I love to see it, though. I bet it’s so quaint and charming as ever, right?

Woman:   Yeah, yeah. Christmas card. Yeah.

Galen:   Yeah. So, for those of you guys who don’t know, it’s just like a cool old gold mining town in northern California and just like one really picturesque Main Street and little offshoots. I mean, you could probably speak to it better since you actually live there, but that was my memory.

Woman:   Yes, it’s still pretty much the same. It’s going through its ebbs and flows of economic revitalization. Like they just redid the National Hotel. They redid the restaurant in there, and they named it the Lola after Lola Montez. So, they’re sticking with the history. So, it’s nice.

Galen:   it’s a beautiful hotel.

Woman:   We’re hoping to get some snow this weekend. We really need the precipitation. We had some storms back in December, but we really haven’t had any.

Galen:   Did you guys get a ton of snow when it snowed like that big, like 10 days?

Woman:   We did. We had two feet when we were out. We had power out. A lot of trees came down this this year and a lot of damage done, and they’re still cleaning up from that. So, it melts off, and then that’s it. So, we’re hoping that Wednesday we get some more.

Galen:   Yeah, fingers crossed. Same here.

Moderator:   Thanks, Betty Jane.

Woman:   You’re welcome. Nice seeing you, Lamon. Sorry you were late.

Moderator:   Next, we’re going to bring up Draya. Draya, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hi, Lamon. Hi, Galen. I’m from Florida. My question is actually for both of you. What’s your most embarrassing moment on set? Either on Days or Passions, Galen?

Galen:   Oh, man, it looks like Lamon already thought of one.

Lamon:   Yeah. I actually posted mine. My most embarrassing moment was when I was in the middle of shooting a scene with Sal. It was on our wedding, and she looks, and she points she at my nose, and she goes, “Can we get a tissue for Lamon? You have like a little booger right there, and I don’t want to kiss on your booger.”

Woman:   Oh, no!

Lamon:   Oh, my god, I was so embarrassed. We had a cast on set. It was probably like maybe 10 or 12 of us and everybody was sitting there watching, and then everybody looks at me, and I’m like, “What is it?” because I can’t see myself. I was super embarrassed. I was really embarrassed.

Galen:   Was that like the wedding or something?

Lamon:   Yeah.

Galen:   I think I was there that day. I remember that. I saw it on the feed or something. I was like, “Oh, that’s embarrassing.”

Lamon:   Yeah, that was really embarrassing. I’ll never forget that. But I have the video to remember it.

Galen:   I mean, she could have like pulled you aside a little bit, but she kind of [unintelligible]

Lamon:   That’s what I’m saying! She could have pulled me to the side and said, “Lamon, go get a tissue, because you have like a little boogie right there.” And I was like, “Oh [intelligible],” but no, she let everyone know. “Can we get a tissue for Lamon?” Yeah, so good times. Go ahead, Galen. What’s yours?

Galen:   I mean, honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever been that embarrassed on set

Lamon:   You weren’t embarrassed you had to speak to a teddy bear?

Galen:   That’s messed up, bro. [unintelligible], I think, for me, and you know, what’s funny is like, something happened. And I think I like just blacked it out of my memory, because I remember saying, “Oh, next time I get asked what my most embarrassing moment is, I have this,” and I cannot even remember for the life of me. But I will say like, maybe a little different than embarrassing, but it’s like, awful, because like sometimes embarrassing [unintelligible] if it’s not awful, you’re like, “Oh my god, I can’t -” But the awful one is when you’ve got a scene or a bunch of scenes, and in one scene, you just keep going up. Like you can’t get the words right, or the phraseology, or whatever it is. Then, you start to get a little sweat going, and you get a little hot, and you’re thinking it, and then the makeup [unintelligible] starts tapping on you and only makes you sweat more. And then everyone’s looking at you. And I mean, it’s happened a couple times. That’s the worst.

Woman:   Not the orangutan from Passions, Galen?

Galen:   I mean, that was awful, mostly. Most people liked it, but he used to regurgitate in my face… it would hit the back of my arm so hard. Thing was shedding dandruff on you constantly, it was so gross. It smelled like a rotten, I don’t know what. You know what I’m saying?

Moderator:   Thank you, Draya.

Woman:   [unintelligible] sanctuary now.

Galen:   Yeah, that’s where they belong, in the jungle.

Woman:   Thanks, Draya.

Lamon:   I’m sure we’ll have plenty more embarrassing moments to talk about as the days go on.

Moderator:   Next, we’re gonna bring up Linda Williamson. Linda, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   I’m from Western Washington State. My question is, what is the most physically adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

Galen:   Is that for Lamon or for me?

Woman:   Both.

Galen:   Okay. You got anything for that, Lamon? I know you don’t do much.

Lamon:   I stay in the house most of the time. But you know what? Skydiving. Skydiving was definitely the most adventurous thing that I’ve ever done. I’m 40 now, and for 39 years, I had said – not 39 years, but for practically my whole life. I was like, “Oh, I would never go skydiving. That’s something I would -” Am I muted?

Women:   No.

Lamon:   Yeah, I would never ever go skydiving, but I did it. And it was out of this world. I wouldn’t do it again, because I got a lot of seasickness from actually coming down, and the guy who was in charge skydiving, he would actually turn the parachute so we’re on some trail to get back to wherever we needed to go, but that really messed with my stomach. But it was very, very on the edge worthy.

Galen:   The guy’s like trying to make it fun for you, and you’re like, “Hey, please stop with the like back and forth.”

Lamon:   Yeah. Yeah, right before he started doing it he had he asked me he was like, “Do you like roller coasters?” And I was like, “Yeah.” He’s like, “All right,“ and next thing I know [unintelligible] to the side. I won’t do it again, but it was good one time.

Galen:   You know, Lamon, I’ve never actually done that.

Lamon:   Take Dramamine before, if you do.

Galen:   Okay. Oh, Linda, first of all, I want to thank you so much for the picture the other day. Linda printed this cool frame and sent me a framed picture at the top of Mammoth of the sign. It’s awesome. I love it. So, you rock. You always send in the most thoughtful things and the most ridiculous and hilarious letters, which I love. So, I’ll say, you know, I did this crazy kayak, like a 20-mile kayak in Hawaii, through like a private, like, waterfall. So, it was a kayak along the coast, and the current was crazy, so strenuous. It was like a full day; it was like a nine-hour kayak, and as I was living in Miami Beach at the time. One of my best friend’s was a member of a kayak club, so we did a bunch of kayaking. So, I was actually really good at it, but it was insanely hard, but so cool. Like part of it [was], the current would take you into this cove that would open up like the waterfalls coming down on your head, birds are swooping in, and you would go into this glowing giant like volcanic room, and suddenly you [would] be inside this mountain. It was the craziest thing I’ve ever seen. And you are kayaking with turtles and sharks and dolphins, and it was insane. Like National Geographic rated it as one of their top 100 adventures. And that was just so special. You’re going along and waterfalls are coming down. It was just like thousands of waterfalls everywhere on the Nepali coast where it at. It’s just I would highly recommend it, like in a boat, whatever. But if you are susceptible to seasickness, you can get seasick doing that for sure. I remember when we stopped for lunch, and I slept for an hour on a picnic table on a remote little island. It was brutal. So, that was pretty good. There’re so many.

Moderator:   Thank you, Linda. Great question. Next, we’re going to bring up Joanie Vaughn. Joanie, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hi, Lamon. Hi, Galen. I’m over in New Bedford, Massachusetts, a big little fishing town here. Biggest capital in the world for fishing, just in case –

Galen:   One of my best friends is from New Bedford.

Woman:   No way! Oh, my God.

Galen:   Yeah.

Woman:   It’s a quaint little town. This question is for both of you. It’s kind of a stupid question, but one I actually had helping in getting, because I had a hard time. Oh, my God, I want to ask you guys a million questions. But the one question is, well, in honor of Kurt Cobain’s birthday, so he’s a favorite of mine. Who’s your favorite band singer? One that you– if you just had nobody else to listen to, that you would want to listen to for the rest of your life.

Galen:   Oh, wow. Well, first of all, I got great taste. I love Kurt Cobain and Nirvana. And actually, just, I went to – Dave Grohl had this really cool thing. He’s the drummer for Nirvana and a bunch of other bands, but he had this really neat – he wrote a book about his journey as a musician and growing up, and I was –

Moderator:   Galen, we lost your sound.

Lamon:   I think, for me, it would be, and I thought a lot about this, and it’s hard to nail down one.

Galen:   It might be for me the Rolling Stones, just because they’re so iconic. They have so many great songs that I love.

Lamon:   Galen’s all over the place right now. I think he was getting the booger out of his nose. That was great!

Galen:   It looks clean to me.

Lamon:   We can’t see to make sure anyway, Galen.

Galen:   Am I back? What happened? Am I back?

Woman:   You are.

Galen:   Shut up, Lamon. [unintelligible] did that to you. Anyway, I’m gonna go Rolling Stones.

Woman:   Love it.

Lamon:   I don’t really know too many bands, but I would say Daughtry. That’s probably one of the few bands that I do listen to. Actually, I’ve seen him live, once. I became a fan years ago from American Idol. That’s when I used to watch American Idol all the time. It’s funny, because American Idol was like one of the few reality TV shows I would sit there and actually cry. So, American Idol. Chris Daughtry. I’m a big fan of them.

Lamon:   I love that. Both you guys, great answers. Thank you so much, and thanks –

Galen:   What about Hip Hop, Lamon?

Lamon:   One rapper, well, he’s passed. If I had no one else to listen to, Tupac. That’s number one.

Galen:   I knew you were going to say that.

Lamon:   Big Tupac fan, yeah.

Galen:   Yeah, he was great.

Moderator:   Thanks Joanie. Great question. Next we’re going to bring up Suzanne. Suzanne, tell us where you’re from and ask your question

Galen:   Hello, Suzanne.

(This is where I asked my question)

Woman:   That’s a good question.

Galen:   What do you think, Lamon?

Lamon:   That’s probably a tougher question for for you, I think, because you know, you’ve been there longer. You’ve been through more things than I have as portraying Eli, but something that –

Galen:   I would say, solve a case.

[crosstalk]

Lamon:   That’s wishful thinking. It’s not gonna ever happen.

Galen:   I know, but like, Lamon and I always had fun working together. We use to be like, “Man, can we just solve a damn case, though?”

Lamon:   Yeah, that’s a tough question. It’s a tough question. I feel like we do everything we – often we do stuff that we don’t want to do. Like, what was it? Zombies. And I’ll never forget the stuff that we did on the island with Christopher and Sal, where Chris had caught that Jungle Fever. Who asked for that? But to answer your question, I mean, something that I haven’t done, I don’t know. I would just say something that would bring in a family member from Eli’s past, just diving into, you know, more of his history. And as far as like pinpointing something in particular, I don’t know, hell, everyone comes back from the dead. So, maybe his dad can come back from the dead. I think that would be beneficial.

Moderator:   Thank you so much, Suzanne. So glad to have you here with us tonight. Next, we’re going to bring up Amber Savage. Amber, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hey, guys, I’m from Louisiana. So, unfortunately, I was pulling for Joe Barrow. I’m sorry, Joe. Anyway, I’m from Louisiana, and my question is for both of y’all. Okay, TV show or movie, either one, which is your guilty pleasure, the one that you don’t want anybody to know that you really like?

Galen:   I’m sorry, I lost audio.

Woman:   I said, which one, TV show or movie, is your guilty pleasure? The one you don’t want anyone to know that you really like. This is for both of y’all.

Lamon:   I would say, for me – I mean, if I didn’t want anybody to know you’re about to know now, but I really love the first season of Love is Blind.

Woman:   Oh, my God.

Lamon:   It’s a reality [show]. Somebody else must know about that. I heard, “Oh, my god.”

Woman:   I’m just watching the second season.

Woman:   Oh, my god, love it.

Lamon:   Yeah. I’ve got to watch the second season, but I really love the first season. I actually have searched up some of the people on Instagram to see if they’re still together from the first season. So, Love is Blind. It’s a really good reality show. And for years, I’ve kind of ventured off from reality TV, but that would definitely suck me back in.

Galen:   Oh, you’re doing deep dives on [unintelligible]. Oh my god, I love it.

Lamon:   And I think this was during the time where COVID just hit, so it was like one of those things where, you know, you’ve watched all the Netflix, so I think that was one of the things I got hooked on during that time.

Galen:   That’s amazing. Is it good?

Lamon:   It is really good. It’s really good. Dude, don’t– don’t start it though. Don’t start it.

Galen:   Okay.

Lamon:   You’re gonna get hooked.

Galen:   Now I have to answer the question. I honestly– I don’t really like – I don’t think I have, like, that show. I did watch this show last night though that’s crazy, so I’ll sort of reframe the question, because I don’t really know that I have anything, but Tinder Swindler?

Lamon:   Oh, I saw that.

Galen:   Dude, how crazy is that guy? What was he doing? What’s the point?

Lamon:   Yeah, for you guys. For any of you that don’t know what that show’s about, it’s about this guy who, on Tinder and dating sites, would swindle people, would swindle women, out of their money. He presents himself as like this, not a celebrity, but somebody who has lots and lots and lots of money. And then he gets women to actually give him money when he gets in trouble and [unintelligible].

Galen:   Yeah, don’t give it away. There’s some like crazy plot. I mean, it’s insane, the levels with which the guy is going and he’s spending money to get them to think that he has money. He’s [got] like private jets, all this nonsense, but he’s spending like the last girl’s money. It’s crazy, like, wow. Yeah, seems like a lot of work.

Moderator:   Thanks, Amber. Great question. Next, we’re going to bring up Nadia Potenza. Nadia, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hi, Galen Hi, Lamon. I’m from Boston, Massachusetts, and tonight, I’m drinking coffee. So, my question for both of you is, what is your greatest strengths as an actor?

Galen:   That’s a good question. Really good question.

Lamon:   I would say just the – You know what? I actually, like bringing in a level of comedy to, uh, to my scenes whenever possible. So, I would say –

Galen:   You do that on purpose?

[laughter]

Lamon:   Sometimes. So, yeah, I would say just the ability to be able to bring light and humor into my scenes.

Galen:   I would agree with that. We always have fun working together, dude. Oh, man. [unintelligible] I think too, your work’s really honest. You know what I mean? Like, you never seem like you’re pushing, you know what I’m saying? I don’t know. You just always find a moment. It seems very genuine, I would say for you, but that’s pretty good. I think, for me, like, I haven’t had any really of these emotional scenes, but one that’s like really – There’s like hard emotional scenes, I feel like, because we’re lucky enough to work with this character for a long time and other characters. I feel like I can believe in the circumstances pretty easily, as absurd as sometimes they might be, and not judge it too much, if that makes sense. Sometimes you’re like, “Oh my god, this is so ridiculous.” You’re like, “All right, whatever. Here we go.”

Moderator:   Thank you, Nadia.

Galen:   I have an ability to make my co stars laugh.

Lamon:   Oh my gosh, that’s true. That is the truth.

Moderator:   Thanks, Nadia.

Woman:   Thank you. Nice to meet you.

Moderator:   Next, we’re gonna bring up Raylene. Raylene, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hi, Galen. Hi, Lamon. Just look for the staircase.

Galen:   Yep.

Lamon:   Can’t miss it.

Galen:   There it is.

Woman:   Nice to spend Sunday with you both So, first of all, Lamon, I wanted to compliment you on your excellent Wi Fi connectivity.

Lamon:   Thank you. I’m in the house now.

Woman:   It’s very good. You’re very sharp and clear picture. So, it’s nice to see.

Lamon:   Thank you.

Woman:   And I’m sorry, Galen. I can’t say the same about you tonight.

Galen:   Is it not clear? But at least [I] was on time.

[laughter]

Woman:   So, there are so many things I wanted to ask both of you, but since Lamon brought up American Idol, and back in the early days, I used to love American Idol too. So, Daughtry didn’t win. Daughtry did not win, so who was your favorite winner of all the seasons that you watched? Who’s your favorite?

Lamon:   Most of the time my favorite got second, like Jennifer Hudson. I think she got second.

Woman:   No, she got six.

Lamon:   Oh, she got six. Oh, God. I think that was the season where the heavy set black guy had one, and I didn’t really like him too much.

Woman:   No, no, that wasn’t the right season.

Lamon:   Wait, Kelly Clarkson. I think Kelly Clarkson. I really liked her. I think she was a winner, if I’m not– if I’m not mistaken.

[crosstalk]

Woman:   First winner. Yeah.

Lamon:   Oh, she was the first… okay. Yeah, yeah, yes. So Kelly Clarkson for sure. And she doesn’t really do so much singing, to my knowledge. Now she’s into talk shows and things like that. Funny how life is gonna turn out.

Woman:   [unintelligible] early on.

Lamon:   Oh, yeah, The Voice is really good too. Yeah, definitely. But yeah, Kelly Clarkson.

Woman:   Do you have an answer there for that, Galen? And did you watch it all?

Galen:   All right, I was having a car situation. This is like my most embarrassing moment.

Lamon:   He’s breaking down right now.

Galen:   I tell you guys this because I have my car on. Not on. I had like the speaker going, and my battery died, and now I’m like blocking the guy who can’t even get out with this truck. So, anyway, good times. What was the question?

[laughter]

Woman:   American Idol singer.

Woman:   Yeah, do you watch American Idol at all?

Galen:   Yeah, you know. Oh, so my favorite singer?

Woman:   Yeah, or winner. I asked him on who his favorite winner was, because Chris Daughtry did not win.

Galen:   Oh, yeah. I like that guy. Who was second last year?

Woman:   I have no clue.

Lamon:   He’s winging this right now, guys.

Galen:   My son was like, super into it, so I would like watch it with them, and I just remember that guy that he thought was gonna win didn’t win, but I can’t remember his name. And I want to say–

Woman:   He was like alternative. He was an alternative artist.

Galen:   Yeah. Thank you.

Woman:   I can’t think of his name.

Galen:   Yeah, but, um, man, those people can sing, I’ll tell you. It’s incredible to be able to do that under that pressure. I don’t know. It’s crazy.

Moderator:   Thanks, Raylene.

Woman:   Thanks, guys.

Lamon:   Thank you, Raylene.

Galen:   Thanks.

Moderator:   Next we’re gonna bring up Thane. Thane is joining joining us from New Zealand and Thane uses text to voice to ask his question. Go ahead. Welcome, Thane.

Thane:   Well, someone I do work for is on the call. I probably shouldn’t do my crazy questions. I am just joking. She already knows I am a complete lunatic. So, guys, soap male characters are usually very stupid. So, I was wondering how you reconcile playing a detective while your character occasionally acts really dumb, for example, in relationships, etc.

Lamon:   That’s definitely a question for Galen.

Galen:   You know, the thing is, Thane, I think you said sometimes dumb; it’s really pretty much all the time. So, yeah, I mean, I think, actually, storyline-wise, like [we’re] moving through a storyline like that right now. I’m not sure exactly how far how much has transpired but I do just remember in this story being like, “Wow, I think I would have figured it out,” or had a greater Inkling. But I don’t know. I think there’s something in the water. We serve it at the at the cop shop there. They put in the coffee, I guess, because, you know, we’re idiots, for lack of a better word. You know, like Peter Sellers, like Pink Panther? Like he wasn’t always the most astute, but he found his way, and I feel like sometimes we do that.

Woman:   Lamon?

Lamon:   Yeah, you know what? It’s, uh, gosh, you know, oftentimes, you fans figure out whatever the crime is two weeks before our characters do, but yeah. I mean, it’s something that the writers have given us, and even though we’re like, “Oh, my god, this is so dumb; like the murderer is walking right next to us with a knife hanging out of their back pocket with blood dripping.” Stuff is right in our face, but we just have to, play as dumb as possible. I mean, there’ve been many times where I’ll go to producers and be like, “This doesn’t make sense. I mean, any idiot would know that, what [it is]; this plays out like this.” And they’re like, ‘Oh, this is the story.” We’ve got to make the best of it. So, our job is to be an idiot, not see it. We just do that.

Woman:   Thank you, Thane. Next, we’re going to bring up Amy Pfeffer. Amy, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hi, guys. Hi, Galen. We talked earlier.

Galen:   Hey, Amy.

Woman:   Hi. Lamon. You know, I’m from the San Mateo area, and I wanted to ask you, did you ever hang out at Tanforan Mall, back in the day?

Lamon:   I used to go to Tanforan Mall. Yes, for sure.

Woman:   They’re tearing it down.

Lamon:   Oh, really?

Woman:   Yeah. They’re tearing it down. We think Jeff Bezos bought it.

Lamon:   What?

Woman:   Yeah, they’re tearing it down. I wanted to tell you.

Lamon:   My cousin – Wait, have they already shut it down, right now?

Woman:   No, they’re shutting it down. They’re shutting it down probably in the next couple months.

Lamon:   Oh, my cousin, she works at the Foot Action over there. Wow. I didn’t know that. Okay.

Woman:   A big tech giant bought it, and we think it’s Jeff Bezos.

Lamon:   I wonder what they’re planning to do with that?

Woman:   I don’t know. I don’t know.

Galen:   Like, your cousin’s gonna be working at the Amazon distribution center, Lamon.

Lamon:   She’s pretty smart. She might be able to take your job on the force.

Galen:   Really, being smart is not a prerequisite for my job.

Woman:   I thought it was useless tidbit of information that I thought you might like to know.

Lamon:   Oh, yeah. Thank you for that. Appreciate it.

Moderator:   Thanks, Amy. Next, we are going to bring up Tina Moore. Tina, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Woman:   Hi, guys. My name is Tina. And I’m from Asheville, North Carolina.

Galen:   Hey, yo, what’s going on?

Woman:   Oh, not much. How are you?

Galen:   Tina the Terror.

Woman:   Well, first of all, Lamon, I want to say I absolutely love your dog.

Lamon:   Oh, thank you.

Woman:   The cutest thing. She’s adorable. I’m serious. If you ever rent her out for play dates, let me know. So, cute.

Lamon:   Thank you.

Woman:   I love your guys’ relationship.

Lamon:   Me and my dog?

Woman:   No. Well, that, too, but you and Galen, because you just bust each other, and it’s so fun.

Lamon:   Yeah, Galen’s my dog, too.

Woman:   Catch and sit and roll over and all that. So, my question is what do you think is the quirkiest part about your characters? Do you kind of build them, too? Like with Galen, I feel like Rafe has this thing for stuffed animals, like you’ve always had; like with Johnny it was penguins. Do you remember his stuffed penguins?

Galen:   Oh, yeah.

Woman:   And then you’ve never had any scenes with him on those. That’s kind of funny.

Galen:   What?

Woman:   Have you ever, I mean, have you ever had scenes with him, since he’s been back?

Galen:   Who, Lamon?

Woman:   No, Johnny.

Galen:   Oh. No, I have. A couple, not many.

Woman:   Okay, because I don’t think we’ve seen him any of them.

Galen:   Oh right. Well, then, you’ll see them coming up, I guess.

Woman:   Okay. So, I guess my question is –

Galen:   Is he possessed by the devil right now?

Woman:   Yes. So, I guess my question is, do you try to bring out the funny in your character, like the quirky stuff?

Galen:   Do I?

Woman:   Yes. Because I think you’re both funny.

Galen:   Thanks. I mean, I will say like a lot of my scenes involve like very high stakes things, murders and you know, pursuits, so you kind of have to temper it sometimes. Like, as much as I would like to play more times, sometimes, but yeah, I love to do that. I mean, I think we do that often in real life as well, and then people sort of lose sight of it in the acting world at times. And it gives like, fun color. So, it’s definitely a – what’s the word I’m looking for? Like, I think about it, when I can mix it in, and I think that the writers actually do a good job of finding moments for me, knowing sort of like my voice and what I want to do, the character’s voice, and they are actually writing stuff in for me, which is great.

Woman:   Yeah, I think they do, too, and I love the sense of humor that Days has. It’s different than any other show right now.

Galen:   That’s great.

Woman:   Yeah. It’s not like Passions. It’s strange, but it’s funny, and it is a lot of fun to watch. It’s not so serious.

Galen:   Yeah, it can be tongue-in-cheek a little bit and make fun of itself. Yeah, I love that, actually. It’s nice color, I think. Thank you for appreciating that.

Woman:   That’s great, thank you.

Galen:   Look how handsome Lamon is, look at that dude.

Lamon:   But yeah, just tagging on what Galen said. Yeah, I mean, being with a soap, everything is a lot of times drama, drama, drama, like you said, high stakes. And often, the plots or whatever it may be, there isn’t– really isn’t laughing – there’s no laughing matters about it. So, I think whenever we can we try to add some humor in, and even if that’s just having reactions to some of the outlandish things that that are going on.

Woman:   Yes. Looks Yeah.

Lamon:   Yeah, and oftentimes, you may not get to see those, because we’re not the ones speaking. So, it really is a gem when they do actually get a look from someone who’s actually a bystander in the whole scene kind of taking the [unintelligible], like, “What the hell is going on?” But yeah, whenever we can we try to implement that stuff, but it’s not always the easiest thing to do, because what’s going on in the story is such high stakes.

Woman:   Okay, thank you.

Galen:   You’re welcome, Tina.

Moderator:   Next we’re going to bring up Vito, tell us where you’re from and ask your question.

Man:  Hello, Lamon. Hi, Galen. I’m Vito. I do have a question for Galen. I saw on your IMdB page that your parents were hippies.

Galen:   Uh-huh.

Man:  [Unintelligible] lifestyle

Galen:   Say again?

Man:  According to this, they interviewed you, and you said, living the hippie lifestyle was art. You lived on macaroni and cheese and Top Ramen.

Galen:   Yeah, that’s pretty accurate. I would say if there’s one thing that as a parent I love to have for my kids is consistency, and my parents did not offer that in terms of the lifestyle, especially when my parents split up. So, I was just with my mom, who was this crazy artist. There was just a lot going on. She was a wild woman. Then when the rent check would come first of the month, he’d cook for like a week and then who knew? It was just a little sketchy. So, that was the the hard part about being a kid and trying to have also a sense of normalcy, when your mom’s this wild artists and the kids are like – I mean, my car was completely painted. You don’t want to ride in that when you’re a kid. It was called the Duck Mobile, and our joke was my sister and I, because we would duck down, so no one would see us. And that lasted for like a year. I was like, “Nobody knows I’m in the Duck Mobile.” And then one kid found out, and that was it. Yeah. So, that was challenging, but looking back on it, it was I think it was pretty fun. I mean, there weren’t a lot of rules. We could kind of do whatever we wanted, and I think it helped obviously shape me into the person I am today. You know, I’m pretty thick-skinned and don’t take things too seriously most of the time. So, yeah.

Man:  Cool. Thank you.

Lamon:   Apparently I drive a duck mobile myself, and I thought I have a pretty nice car. Whenever I pick up my kids they hop in fast, and they duck, because I play my music loud. They don’t want their friends to see them.

Moderator:   Thanks, Vito.

Galen:   You’re blaring that Daughtry.

Moderator:   Okay, I’m going to bring three people back up who asked their questions before Lamon came on. Galen, you’re more than welcome to stay with us if you want to. Okay, I’m going to bring Betty Jean back up. She has a question for Lamon.

Woman:   Hi, Lamon. Now that you guys are aging the babies, how’s it working with real babies on the set, instead of the dolls?

Lamon:   It’s actually– it’s fun. It helps us as actors to actually have a living breathing baby, but there are times where you’ll have one of the twins – you are dealing with now two babies on set – oftentimes one of them won’t be in the mood. So, we have to deal with that, but overall, it’s a blessing that we don’t have to hold dolls and sit there and pass these crazy, scary-looking dolls. [unintelligible] things like that.

Woman:   But are you working with just two babies? Or is it two sets of twins?

Lamon:   It’s two sets of twins, four for each. And it’s funny, because the Carver babies.. Carver is the boy, but they’re played by girls. Jules, of course, is the girl, but the girls are actually boys.

Galen:   Oh, my god. That’s so weird.

Lamon:   So, it’s crazy, but yeah, to answer your question, it’s more fun to do.

Galen:   I just want to interject, because those babies they have, not the real ones, those babies are crazy-looking.

Lamon:   The dolls?

Galen:   Yeah, with those like popping out of your cupboard or something.

Moderator:   Thanks, Betty Jane. Next, we’re going to bring back up Ina. Ina has a question for Lamon.

Woman:   Hi, Lamon, nice to meet you.

Lamon:   Nice to meet you.

Woman:   My question is, what’s your favorite car?

Lamon:   My favorite car, well it’s definitely gonna be a car I don’t have. Let’s see. Okay, right now, my favorite car, it’s not even out yet. It’s a new Hummer that I have my eye on. It won’t be out until 2024, but it’s an– it’s a– an electric Hummer. If you ever want to sit there and Google– but all-electric Hummer 2024, And you can actually take the top off of that. So yeah, 2024 Hummer.

Galen:   Those things look sweet.

Lamon:   Yeah.

Woman:   Thank you, Ina. And we’re going to bring back up Michelle Leibowitz. Michelle has a question for Lamon.

Woman:   Hi, Lamon. Very nice to meet you.

Lamon:   Nice to meet you, Michelle.

Woman:   I was asking, I know you and Galen are both blooper kings. What’s your most memorable blooper that you’ve had on set?

Lamon:   Well, I’ll say this. The one that I’ve watched the most is probably the blooper with myself, Thou, Galen and – his name is – help me out Galen. I think his dad stole stole a baby. Remember, Galen, we were in a hotel room and he was on the other side of the bed?

Moderator:   Brock Kelly?

Lamon:   Yeah, Brock Kelly. That one, oh my god, we were dying. I actually have it on my Instagram page that blooper where you came into the door, and you said something like “Po po” or something like that. And then it just started, everybody was giggling, and we did not stop laughing. I remember Lucy. She was like, “All right guys, you guys have to settle down,” or something like that. You were like, “No, we need to fire up,” and they actually didn’t even let us finish rehearsing, because we were horsing around too much, or she was like, “We’re gonna go straight to tape. You guys got to settle down.” We could not stop laughing. That one I probably watched the most. That was hilarious.

Galen:   I remember that. They were talking about it earlier, actually, because they were asking about exactly that. And I was like, “We don’t have time for practical jokes,” but I remember that, because I had to bang on it like, “Police!” And I was like, “It’s the po po.” Then you guys just lost it. I don’t know, [there were] some other whole crazy absurdities going on. That was funny.

Lamon:   Often times we’re working with stuff that’s so crazy that any little thing that happens, sometimes it doesn’t even have to be funny, but just anything that happens is just out of the ordinary. One person starts laughing, and next thing you know, everybody has the giggles, and it’s over. It’s over after that.

Galen:   It’s a wrap.

Lamon:   Yeah.

Galen:   Why is that? It’s like, these things become so funny that otherwise wouldn’t really seemingly be funny at all. But I think, because you’re under the pressure of like, “Oh, we got to get this out.” And you’re like, it’s so ridiculous that you’re just, I don’t know, it just becomes hilarious. I don’t know what it is, but then you get the giggles, and you just can’t stop.

Lamon:   There’s something about laughing when you’re not supposed to laugh that just takes it to a whole new height, for sure.

Galen:   The other day, I was telling them like, we have the scenes, Billy’s coming in, I’ll fire it up, and and then he’s like, “Dude, don’t do that to me.” I’m like, “Don’t do what? I didn’t do anything.” He like, “You got that twinkle in your eye.” And I was like, “I’m not doing anything.” Then of course I started doing something, and then I couldn’t stop. And then I’d slap myself, but then it really hurt, and I had a hand mark on my face. I hit myself so hard, I was like, “Oh, my god, it’s not going well.”

Woman:   Well, this brings our time to a close. So, on behalf I know on behalf of Penny and Star Image Entertainment, we want to thank all of you for coming tonight. We want to especially thank Lamon and Galen for taking time out of their busy schedules to be here. Clearly it was no small effort tonight for both of them. I hope you can get home and you don’t have to call [unintelligible] to come rescue you.

Galen:   I have to get a jump. My favorite car right now? The one that starts.

Woman:   Oh, and and Galen don’t forget your bike.

Woman:   So, we always do a toast before we end the night and take some group shots. So, if everybody wants to raise their glass, we want to we want to toast Galen and Lamon, the Salem PD force. Thank you for for joining us, for all you do. Thank you Penny. And thank you to all the fans. It’s all of you that make all of this special. So cheers.

 [crosstalk]

Lamon:   Yeah, thank you.

[crosstalk]

Galen:   Thanks everyone for coming. Thank you Lamon. Happy Sunday.

Lamon:   Happy Sunday.

Woman:   Go Rams, Galen.

Interview Transcribed by Jamie of http://www.scifivision.com

MORE INFO:

Lamon Archey

Eli Grant, “Days of our Lives”

Lamon Archey plays Eli Grant on NBC’s iconic daytime drama “Days of our Lives.”

Born in Northern California, Archey was raised by his grandparents and after graduating high school worked as a carpenter for three years. He soon moved to Los Angeles where, in less than a year, was working as a print, catalog and runway model for some of the world’s top fashion brands and designers, including Macys, the Gap, Kohl’s, Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana.

Archey sharpened his acting chops and soon began booking commercials for major companies, including McDonald’s, Chase and Old Navy. Beyoncé handpicked Archey as her love interest for Destiny’s Child 2004 music video “Cater 2 U.”

He landed his first acting role on “The Young and the Restless” in 2012 and would go on to appear in various sitcoms, including CBS’ “2 Broke Girls” and Showtime’s “Roadies,” before returning to daytime on “Days of Our Lives.” Originating the role of Eli Grant, the first Black member of the Horton family, Archey garnered critical acclaim for his portrayal of the likeable headstrong character.

A father of three children – two sons, Machiah, 17, and Caden, 11; and daughter, Gaia, 8 –Lamon resides in Los Angeles.

Galen Laius Gering (born February 13, 1971) is an American actor most known for his portrayal of characters on daytime soap operas. He currently plays the role of Rafe Hernandez on the long-running NBC soap opera Days of Our Lives. He also appeared on the NBC daytime soap opera Passions as Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald.

Days of our Lives

Mondays-Fridays on NBC (daytime; check local station for time)

For almost half a century, those words have introduced and underscored NBC’s longest-running drama series. “Days of our Lives,” which turns 55 on Nov. 8, 2020, first premiered as a half-hour drama in 1965 and expanded to an hour 10 years later.

The show is currently in its 55th season and remains a consistent favorite among critics and fans alike. “Days of our Lives” is produced by Corday Productions, Inc. in association with Sony Pictures Television. Ken Corday is the executive producer with co-executive producer Albert Alarr. Ron Carlivati is the head writer. “Days of our Lives” airs nationally on NBC in the United States and in over 15 countries internationally.

The show has garnered 58 Emmy Awards, including most recently 2018’s Outstanding Daytime Drama, and 372 nominations, as well as multiple People’s Choice Awards, GLAAD Media Awards, and Prism Awards. The show’s success stems from its consistent commitment to excellence in writing and storytelling – supported by a diverse ensemble of performers – and an uncanny knack for anticipating viewer interests. With its mix of classic genre traditions and groundbreaking narratives reflecting modern life, “Days of our Lives” remains a perennial favorite among viewers of all ages.

“Days of our Lives” is set in the fictitious Midwestern town of Salem. The core families are Bradys, Hortons and DiMeras, and the multi-layered storylines involve elements of romance, adventure, mystery, comedy and drama.

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Eli and Rafe on "Days of Our Lives" on NBC

Interview with Grant Knoche of Texas

TV Interview!

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Grant Knoche (TX) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Interview with Grant Knoche of “American Song Contest” on NBC by Thane 5/5/22

I was very happy to get this interview with Grant. He does such a great job on ASC and is very popular with fans (and with Kelly Clarkson, with whom he shares the home state of Texas!).  Please vote for him if you like his music.

 

Here are the questions I asked:

How does it feel representing Texas in a live TV show?

What does “Mr. Independent” mean to you?

What are the challenges of being a young solo singer?

Why did you join Kidz Bop and what was that like?

As a solo artist, what inspires your music?

These days collaborations are popular. With whom would you want to collaborate?

Is there anything in particular that gets you in the mood to write songs?

What’s your view of modern pop music?

Do you feel that streaming services fairly compensate musicians?

I have watched your latest music videos. How do you come up with ideas for them?

Where can people follow you?

MORE INFO:

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Grant Knoche (TX) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)Texas: Grant Knoche

State: Texas
Singer’s name: Grant Knoche
Hometown: Frisco, TX
Resident: Los Angeles, CA

Grant Knoche, 19, taught himself to write and produce in his childhood bedroom and he hasn’t looked back since. Grant’s synth-driven, deep bass and intimate pop songs have all been written and produced by him. On his way to gathering over 900,000 followers, Grant has spent most of his life on the road performing more than 160 shows across America, including on “Today,” at Radio City Music Hall, Woodstock and many other locales. Grant’s debut EP, “Color Me Blue,” has been featured on multiple top playlists and he was recently called out by Ones to Watch as “One of today’s finest rising pop stars.” Grant’s excited to represent his home state of Texas.

American Song Contest

Mondays on NBC (8-10 p.m. ET)

 

America’s biggest live entertainment event has arrived! Based on the worldwide phenomenon “Eurovision Song Contest,” organized for 65 years by the European Broadcasting Union and watched by 200 million viewers annually, this amazing musical spectacular combines the competitive spirit of rooting for your favorite sports team with the joy of watching a beloved singing performance.

In the U.S. version of the international megahit, “American Song Contest” will feature live original musical performances, representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital, competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. The 56 artists span a wide range of performers – from undiscovered talent, up-and-coming new artists, and rising stars to established and legendary icons. An incredible solo artist, duo, group or band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America.

Hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, the eight-week live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

“American Song Contest” is executive produced by Propagate’s Ben Silverman and Howard T. Owens, alongside Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson and Gregory Lipstone as well as American Song Contest, Inc.’s Anders Lenhoff, Christer Björkman, Peter Settman and Ola Melzig. Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson also serve as executive producers.

The series is produced by Propagate in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, and American Song Contest, Inc.

Hashtag: #AmericanSongContest

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AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- Episode 103 Contestant Gallery -- Pictured: Grant Knoche (TX) -- (Photo by: Chris Haston/NBC)

Interviews with “American Song Contest” performers

TV Interview!

"American Song Contest" April 25 on NBC

Interview with performers of “American Song Contest” on NBC by Thane 4/25/22

I was at this virtual press event with some of the semi-finalists for this show. I watched the first semi-final episode. My favorites were Riker and Jonah, but all the contestants shone this night.

Riker Lynch of Colorado

Sadly, the jury didn’t like him. He’s very upbeat, so I asked him what his motivation is for wanting to spread joy.


Jonah Prill of Montana

His style is more country, so I asked him what he liked about country music.


Ada Leann of Michigan

Ada is the youngest performer; I asked her what the challenges are of being a young singer.


AleXa of Oklahoma

I asked her if she’s inspired by any K pop artists. I liked her tune. I really should listen to more K Pop.


MARi of New Hampshire

I loved her song and asked her what got her in the mood to write such an inspirational song.


Hueston of Rhode Island

I assumed that Hueston likes to reach people through his music, so I asked how it feels to know that he’s reaching people.


Ni/Co of Alabama

I asked whether both of them always writes songs for their duo or whether just one of them writes the songs.


Jared Lee of Massaghusetts

Since his song was called “Shameless,” I asked him whatever the most shameless thing he’s done (that’s he’s comfortable sharing).


Allen Stone of Washington

He wrote his song after becoming a father, so I asked him what his family thinks of his song.


Ryan Charles of Wyoming

His style was influenced by hip hop, so I wanted to know what his favorite hip hop jams were.


Jordan Smith of Kentucky

I felt that “Sparrow” was a powerful song and wanted to know what it meant to him.


MORE INFO:

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST — “Semi-finals” Episode 106

America’s biggest live entertainment event has arrived! Based on the worldwide phenomenon “Eurovision Song Contest,” organized for 65 years by the European Broadcasting Union and watched by 200 million viewers annually, this amazing musical spectacular combines the competitive spirit of rooting for your favorite sports team with the joy of watching a beloved singing performance.

In the U.S. version of the international megahit, “American Song Contest” will feature live original musical performances, representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital, competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. The 56 artists span a wide range of performers – from undiscovered talent, up-and-coming new artists, and rising stars to established and legendary icons. An incredible solo artist, duo, group or band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America.

Hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, the eight-week live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

“American Song Contest” is executive produced by Propagate’s Ben Silverman and Howard T. Owens, alongside Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson and Gregory Lipstone as well as American Song Contest, Inc.’s Anders Lenhoff, Christer Björkman, Peter Settman and Ola Melzig. Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson also serve as executive producers.

The series is produced by Propagate in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, and American Song Contest, Inc.

Hashtag: #AmericanSongContest

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AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “Semi-finals” Episode 106 -- Pictured: (l-r) Snoop Dogg, Kelly Clarkson -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Interview with William B. Davis

TV Interview!

 

William B. Davis, author, actor, director and more!

Interview with William B. Davis of “Upload” on Amazon by Suzanne 4/13/22

It was great to speak with Bill again, this time about a new book. I interviewed him 12 years ago about his first book. Most of us know him well as the Cigarette Smoking Man (CSM) on “The X-Files,” but he’s been in many scifi and other shows, including the current series “Upload” on Amazon where he plays the villainous David Choak. I love this show and can’t wait to see more.

He is very candid. Watch the video – he tells whether he thinks there will be more “X-FIles” or not, and why, whom he keeps in contact with from X-Files, why there are fewer episodes of “Upload” in season 2, and about the future of that show.

 

MORE INFO:

On Acting... and Life by William B. DavisOn Acting …and life, the new book by Acclaimed Actor/Director/Author William B. Davis will be released on May 3, 2022

Best known as the Cigarette Smoking Man on TV’s The X-Files William’s book is part memoir and part master class

For immediate release: Acclaimed award-winning actor William B. Davis, best known as the Cigarette Smoking Man on TV’s The X-Files, is pleased to announce that his second book ‘On Acting …and life will be released on Tuesday, May 3, 2022.  With over 135 IMDb credits and not one to slow down, William’s current roles include the villain David Choak in Uploadnow airing on Amazon. He can also be seen in the upcoming Netflix TV series from Mike Flanagan entitled The Midnight Club. This fall Davis will play a major role in Harold Pinter’s No Man’s Land on stage in Vancouver, BC.

About the Book: 

Dozens of books on acting exist, but none of them are quite like this. Part memoir and part master class, modeled after Stephen King’s bestseller, On Writing, the book is divided into two parts. 

Part one takes readers on a seventy-year journey that begins with William B. Davis, at age twelve, riding his bicycle through the streets of Toronto to his first acting classes, and eventually leads to him starring in the long-running television series, The X-Files, starring David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. From a summer theatre in Ontario to the National Theatre of Great Britain to the National Theatre School of Canada to the William Davis Centre for Actors’ Study in Vancouver, few have traveled such a colorful journey. Along the way, Davis met all sorts of familiar faces, including Donald Sutherland, Brian Cox, Albert Finney, Laurence Olivier, Maggie Smith, David Duchovny, and Gillian Anderson, among others. 

Although there is a lot about acting in part one, the heart of the book for an aspiring or working actor is in part two. What has Davis learned in seventy years of working both in the theatre and in film and television? A lot, as you will see. Davis’s grasp of the art of acting is vast and practical. And in some ways, original.

In his final chapter, Davis explores the underlying philosophy of acting and actor training and argues for bringing the work into the twenty-first century.

Praise for On Acting …and life.

“This book celebrates a lifetime’s passion and commitment to the mysterious realm of acting. It’s not a tale of fame, fortune, and gossip, but instead, it documents the twists and turns of an artist’s determined engagement with making and sustaining a career in Canada for over sixty years. It’s a history lesson and an inspiration, reminding the discouraged actor that you never know what’s coming round the corner so be prepared and keep the faith. The discussion of what makes for good acting is a wealth of practical, clear advice, mined and honed in decades of devoted exploration as an actor, director, and teacher. Gold!”  Rosemary Dunsmore (Award-winning Actor, Director, and Acting teacher)

“Before he was my cigarette smoking nemesis for over 25 years before he incarnated one of TV’s great villains, William Davis was an acting teacher. It’s not true that those who can’t do, teach because Bill can do both. And he can write. Like all good teachers, the wisdom and stories that Bill elaborates upon in his book are really lessons about life. It’s possible you will become a better actor after reading Bill; it’s also possible you will become a better person. For fans of The X-Files or just people who enjoy listening to a no-nonsense craftsman and lifer talk about his craft with none of the usual humble-brag or sensational Hollywood bullshit.”  David Duchovny (Novelist and Star of The X-Files)

“Bill Davis’s ‘On Acting’ is a fascinating tapestry of a life dedicated not only to the Art, but also to a deeper philosophical grasp of our work. Bill chronicles a highly personal journey that is founded in the search for a truth that truly illuminates the mystery of our craft!”  Brian Cox (Bafta Award Winner and Star of Succession)

“Bill’s vast experience, on stage, screen and as a teacher is more than impressive, it’s a rarity in our culture of instant fame. I cast him as a villain 30 years ago, but little did I know he’d always played to win.”  Chris Carter (Creator of The X-Files)

About the Author:

After decades of working as a theatre director and actor in Canada, the UK, and the US, William B. Davis rose to prominence as the Cigarette Smoking Man on TV’s The X-Files. Besides appearing in numerous other TV shows and movies, most recently, Upload and Midnight Club, Davis also founded his own acting school, the William Davis Centre for Actors’ Study. 

Davis has written one other book, a memoir entitled Where There’s Smoke . . . The Musings of a Cigarette Smoking Man. He lives in Vancouver, B.C., with his wife, Emmanuelle Davis. 

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William B. Davis in "Upload" on Prime

Interview with Nathan Witte

TV Interview!

Nathan Witte of "Greed" on Lifetime

Interview with Nathan Witte of “Greed” on Lifetime by Suzanne 3/23/22

This press day with Lifetime stars was great fun. The actors chatted a lot with us about this season’s Seven Deadly Sins movie series. Since these movies are about the seven deadly sins, there is a religious element in each of them. In this one, Zuri (Monique Coleman) is a preacher’s daughter, and we see a bit of that influence from her parents, and there are some scenes with preaching.

With these press calls, we basically get one question. I had interviewed Monique before, so I chose to speak with Nathan Witte because he’s been on several shows I like, such as “Arrow” and “Superman and Lois.” I put my questions first, but you can see the others below that.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MORE INFO:

LIFETIME GREENLIGHTS NEXT TWO MOVIES FROM THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS ANTHOLOGY WITH WRATH STARRING MICHELLE WILLIAMSTINA KNOWLES-LAWSON, ROMEO MILLER AND ANTONIO CUPO

AND GREED STARRING MONIQUE COLEMAN, LISARAYE MCCOY, ERIC BENÉT AND NATHAN WITTE

FROM EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS T.D. JAKESDERRICK WILLIAMS AND SHAUN ROBINSON FILMS WILL DEBUT ON BACK-TO-BACK SATURDAYS STARTING APRIL 16

Los Angeles, CA – February 17, 2022 – On the heels of last year’s popular Lust and Envy movies seen by over 9.4 million viewers in their airings, Lifetime announces the next two Seven Deadly Sins Anthology movie installments, Wrath and Greed, from executive producers T.D. Jakes, Derrick Williams and Shaun Robinson. Based on the series of books by Victoria Christopher Murray, Wrath: A Seven Deadly Sins Story stars Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child), Tina Knowles-Lawson (Profiled: The Black Man), Romeo Miller (Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Witness Protection) and Antonio Cupo (Blood & Treasure) while Greed: A Seven Deadly Sins Story is headlined by Monique Coleman (A Christmas Dance Reunion), LisaRaye McCoy (A House Divided), Eric Benét (Real Husbands of Hollywood) and Nathan Witte (Merry Liddle Christmas Baby).
Below are the movie descriptions and premiere dates.
GREED: A SEVEN DEADLY SINS STORY
Saturday, April 23 at 8/7c
Interior decorator Zuri Maxwell (Monique Coleman) had it all – a career she adored, loving family and friends,
and a good man in her life, artist Stephon Gardner (Nathan Witte). But greed threatens to destroy everything,
when Zuri meets handsome benefactor and entrepreneur Godfrey Anderson (Eric Benét) and his fabulously
wealthy aunt Miss Viv (LisaRaye McCoy). They have everything Zuri thinks she wants. As Godfrey
romances her, she compromises the values and morals that should guide her in an effort to be part of the
moneyed world she so desperately wants to be part of.
Wrath: A Seven Deadly Sins Story and Greed: A Seven Deadly Sins Story are produced by Wrath
Productions Inc and Greed Productions Inc respectively in association with T.D. Jakes Enterprises and
RobinHood Productions. T.D. Jakes, Derrick Williams, and Shaun Robinson serve as executive
producers. Wrath and Greed are directed by Troy Scott from scripts written by Richard Blaney and Gregory
Small (Wrath) and Wuese Houston-Jibo (Greed).

ABOUT LIFETIME

Celebrating 35 years of entertaining audiences, Lifetime is a premier entertainment destination for women dedicated to offering the highest quality original programming spanning award-winning movies and breakout non-fiction series and documentaries. Lifetime has an impressive legacy in public affairs, bringing attention to social issues that women care about with initiatives such as the long-running Stop Breast Cancer for Life, Stop Violence Against Women, and Broader Focus, a major global initiative dedicated to supporting and hiring female directors, writers and producers, including women of color, to make its content. Lifetime Television®, LMN®, Lifetime Real Women® and Lifetime Digital™ are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC, a subsidiary of A+E Networks. A+E Networks is a joint venture of the Disney-ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation.

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"Greed" poster

Interview with Tosin Cole

TV Interview!

Tosin Cole stars in "61st Street" on AMC

 

Interview with Tosin Cole of “61st Street” on AMC by Suzanne 4/12/22

It was great to speak with Tosin because he’s an amazing actor. I really loved him on “Doctor Who” and was so sorry that he left there. He’s gone on to bigger and better roles, though, such as his outstanding work in this series. You should really make sure to watch it!

We’ll have the transcript up here at some point!

MORE INFO: Official Trailer

61st Street posterAMC Networks announced today the premiere date for its highly anticipated new drama 61st Street, starring Emmy®-winner Courtney B. Vance,  ahead of the series’ world premiere at SXSW.  From BAFTA-winner Peter Moffat, J. David Shanks and Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society, the series debuts Sunday, April 10 at 10pm ET/PT on AMC, with the first two episodes streaming on AMC+ and ALLBLK. New episodes will rollout  weekly, on Sundays, and be available one week early on AMC+ and ALLBLK.

From AMC Studios, 61st Street is a propulsive thriller which courses through the dark heart of the infamous Chicago criminal justice system as police and prosecutors investigate a deadly drug bust that threatens to unravel the Tosin Cole stars in "61st Street" on AMCpolice department’s code of silence. Vance (The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story, Lovecraft Country), leads an ensemble cast that includes Emmy®-nominee Aunjanue Ellis (When They See Us, King Richard), Mark O’Brien (City on a Hill, Blue Bayou), Holt McCallany (Mindhunter, Lights Out), Tosin Cole (Doctor Who, Hollyoaks), Andrene Ward-Hammond (Your Honor, Manifest) and Bentley Green (Snowfall, Sweet Magnolias).

The series is executive produced by Moffat (The Night Of, Your Honor), Shanks  (The Chi, Seven Seconds, Shots Fired), Outlier Society’s Jordan and Elizabeth Raposo (Just Mercy, David Makes Man), Alana Mayo (Tom Clancy’s Without Remorse, Just Mercy), Jeff Freilich (Lodge 49, Dispatches from Elsewhere) and Hilary Salmon (MotherFatherSon, The Night Of, London Spy).

About AMC Networks Inc.

Tosin Cole in "61st Street" on AMCAMC Networks is a global entertainment company known for its popular and critically acclaimed content. Its portfolio of brands includes AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios), IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv, IFC Films, and a number of fast-growing streaming services, including the AMC+ premium streaming bundle, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now and ALLBLK. AMC Studios, the Company’s in-house studio, production and distribution operation, is behind award-winning owned series and franchises, including The Walking Dead, the highest-rated series in cable history. The Company also operates AMC Networks International, its international programming business, and 25/7 Media, its production services business.

About AMC+

AMC+ is the company’s new premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, including fan favorites Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Hell on Wheels, NOS4A2, Rectify, Orphan Black, Portlandia, and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, Kin, The North Water, Ragdoll, The Beast Must Die, Too Close, The Salisbury Poisonings, Cold Courage, Spy City, Ultra City Smiths, Anna, Anne Boleyn, Firebite, and La Fortuna. AMC+ recently launched in Canada and Australia, and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners.

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Courtney B. Vance and Tosin Cole of "61st Street" on AMC

Interview with Michelle Williams, Romeo Miller and Anthony Cupo

TV Interview!

poster for "Wrath" on Lifetime 4/16

Interview with Michelle Williams, Romeo Miller and Anthony Cupo of “Wrath” on Lifetime by Suzanne 3/23/22

This was a fun press conference that Lifetime held for this season’s Seven Deadly Sins movie series. The first one is “Wrath,” airing tonight, and then next week is “Greed” on April 23. The plot for this one is mostly like a standard Lifetime movie where the main character, Chastity (played by singer/actress Michelle Williams) meets a new handsome guy, Xavier (Anthony Cupo), and he turns out to be someone that you don’t want to date (no spoilers here!).  There is an added religious element that you may or may not like. It’s not as religious as “Greed,” though. You might recall that Williams was one third of the hit R&B group Destiny’s Child, along with Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland.  Beyoncé’s mom, Tina Knowles-Lawson, plays Sarah, Chastity’s mom, so that’s pretty cool.  Rap star Romeo Miller plays Roger, Chastity’s former high school boyfriend. You may recognize Cupo from his acting career as he’s been in many things. He’s really the best actor in the group. It was great to speak with all of the main stars of the movie! Here is the video of my question, and we hope to have a transcript soon of the entire press chat. Don’t miss the movie tonight!

MORE INFO:

Trailer

LIFETIME GREENLIGHTS NEXT TWO MOVIES 

FROM THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS ANTHOLOGY WITH 

 

WRATH STARRING 

MICHELLE WILLIAMSTINA KNOWLES-LAWSON,

ROMEO MILLER AND ANTONIO CUPO


AND 
GREED STARRING MONIQUE COLEMAN, LISARAYE MCCOY,

ERIC BENÉT AND NATHAN WITTE

 

FROM EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS T.D. JAKES

DERRICK WILLIAMS AND SHAUN ROBINSON


FILMS WILL DEBUT ON BACK-TO-BACK SATURDAYS

STARTING APRIL 16

Los Angeles, CA – February 17, 2022 – On the heels of last year’s popular Lust and Envy movies seen by over 9.4 million viewers in their airings, Lifetime announces the next two Seven Deadly Sins Anthology movie installments, Wrath and Greed, from executive producers T.D. Jakes, Derrick Williams and Shaun Robinson. Based on the series of books by Victoria Christopher Murray, Wrath: A Seven Deadly Sins Story stars Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child), Tina Knowles-Lawson (Profiled: The Black Man), Romeo Miller (Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Witness Protection) and Antonio Cupo (Blood & Treasure) while Greed: A Seven Deadly Sins Story is headlined by Monique Coleman (A Christmas Dance Reunion), LisaRaye McCoy (A House Divided), Eric Benét (Real Husbands of Hollywood) and Nathan Witte (Merry Liddle Christmas Baby).
Below are the movie descriptions and premiere dates.
(L to R): Wrath stars Romeo Miller, Michelle Williams, Peter Bryant and Tina Knowles-Lawson.

WRATH: A SEVEN DEADLY SINS STORY

Saturday, April 16 at 8/7c

After single lawyer Chastity Jeffries (Michelle Williams) meets Xavier Collins (Antonio Cupo), he seems to be everything she is looking for in a partner—handsome, smart and a lawyer as well.  As his affection turns to obsession, Chastity realizes that she has been swept up by Xavier’s passion and abandoned her principles. When Xavier’s jealousy and wrath lead to suspicious actions and dangerous threats, Chastity confides in her mother Sarah (Tina Knowles-Lawson) and turns to her former childhood boyfriend Roger Thompkins (Romeo Miller). But in the end, it is Chastity that will have to fight to save herself.

ABOUT LIFETIME

Celebrating 35 years of entertaining audiences, Lifetime is a premier entertainment destination for women dedicated to offering the highest quality original programming spanning award-winning movies and breakout non-fiction series and documentaries. Lifetime has an impressive legacy in public affairs, bringing attention to social issues that women care about with initiatives such as the long-running Stop Breast Cancer for Life, Stop Violence Against Women, and Broader Focus, a major global initiative dedicated to supporting and hiring female directors, writers and producers, including women of color, to make its content. Lifetime Television®, LMN®, Lifetime Real Women® and Lifetime Digital™ are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC, a subsidiary of A+E Networks. A+E Networks is a joint venture of the Disney-ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation.

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Michelle Williams and Romeo Miller in "Wrath" on Lifetime

Interviews with “American Song Contest” contestants 4/4/22

TV Interview!

Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson on "American Song Contest" on NBC

Interview with contestants from “American Song Contest” on NBC by Thane 4/4/22

I haven’t been press for a live event before. I also enjoy music, so I decided to cover this event. I knew of the hosts, so I was hoping to speak to at least one of them.

Watch the episode here if you missed it!

SNOOP DOGG

 

I have previously seen him at a festival in New Zealand, so I was excited to speak to him. This is probably one of the main highlights of the year for me. I asked him if he enjoyed seeing a live audience now that the pandemic is over. I regret this phrasing as the pandemic isn’t really over. There was a period when live events didn’t happen, and I was trying to reference this time. It was great to speak to him!

SABYU OF NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS

 

I could tell he values his home culture, so I wanted to incorporate the people back home in my question. I asked him what they think of his success.

NI/CO OF ALABAMA

 

On reflection, I really should have been asking more music oriented questions as I enjoy learning about music. This was the only time I really took the opportunity to do this. I asked them how do two people write a song.

ALE ZABALA OF FLORIDA

 

I instantly noticed that her performance was very pink themed. (the color, not the singer! LOL!) So I asked her how she decided on that color.

TYLER BRADEN OF TENNESSEE

 

I just thought he had so much raw emotion in his voice. I really enjoyed his singing.

NITRO NITRA OF DELAWARE

 

I really enjoyed the rhythm of her song, so I asked how she chose it.

BRITTANY PFANTZ OF LOUISIANA

 

I really enjoyed the special effects of her song, so I asked how the special effects were chosen.

GRANT KNOCHE OF TEXAS

 

He was definitely my favorite of the night. I noticed he was a really good dancer, so I asked him how long it took to learn the dance moves.

BROOKE ALEXX OF NEW JERSEY

 

I really liked her song, “I Don’t Take Pictures Anymore”. I asked her what her song meant to her.

JESSE LEPROTTI OF SOUTH CAROLINA

 

Since Jesse’s song was inspired by his mom, I was really curious to know what he told her about the song before his performance.

JUDD HOOS OF SOUTH DAKOTA

 

I was curious to know if their song “Bad Girl” was about anyone specific. Watch the video to find the answer!

We didn’t get to interview Jewel (representing Alaska) or Riker Lynch from Colorado.

Jewel did a country song. It was great hearing her on stage. I love her song, “I Love You Always Forever.”

Riker seems to be an upbeat person, and his song “Feel the Love” reflected this..I liked what he was wearing, too!

MORE INFO:

American Song Contest

Mondays on NBC (8-10 p.m. ET); Series Premiere: March 21

America’s biggest live entertainment event has arrived! Based on the worldwide phenomenon “Eurovision Song Contest,” organized for 65 years by the European Broadcasting Union and watched by 200 million viewers annually, this amazing musical spectacular combines the competitive spirit of rooting for your favorite sports team with the joy of watching a beloved singing performance.

In the U.S. version of the international megahit, “American Song Contest” will feature live original musical performances, representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital, competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. The 56 artists span a wide range of performers – from undiscovered talent, up-and-coming new artists, and rising stars to established and legendary icons. An incredible solo artist, duo, group or band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America.

Hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, the eight-week live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

“American Song Contest” is executive produced by Propagate’s Ben Silverman and Howard T. Owens, alongside Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson and Gregory Lipstone as well as American Song Contest, Inc.’s Anders Lenhoff, Christer Björkman, Peter Settman and Ola Melzig. Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson also serve as executive producers.

The series is produced by Propagate in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, and American Song Contest, Inc.

Hashtag: #AmericanSongContest

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Snoop Dogg -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Snoop Dogg

Executive Producer/Host, “American Song Contest”

A multi-platinum artist, actor, philanthropist and entertainment icon, Snoop Dogg has reigned for nearly three decades as an unparalleled force, raising the bar as an award-winning entertainer and globally recognized entrepreneur. Snoop defines entertainment history. He has released 21 studio albums, sold over 40 million albums worldwide, reached No. 1 countless times on Billboard charts internationally and received 20 Grammy nominations.

A California native, Snoop has also appeared in numerous films, such as “Dolemite Is My Name,” “The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run,” “The Addams Family,” “Beach Bum,” “Starsky & Hutch,” “Soul Plane” and the Oscar-winning drama “Training Day,” among others. He has also produced several TV shows and films, including Vice’s “Reincarnated,” “Mac & Dean Go to High School” and “Hood of Horror” through his production company, Snoopadelic Films. He made his mark in television when he garnered an Emmy Award nomination as executive producer for the hit VH1 show “Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner.” Snoop was also the executive producer of the Netflix show “Coach Snoop,” “GGN: Double G News,” MTV’s “Mary + Jane” and the TNT game show “Joker’s Wild,” which he also hosted.

Most recently, Snoop has hosted and produced several projects through his Snoopadelic films, including two Peacock originals – “2021 and Done” alongside Kevin Hart, a hilarious retrospective on the year that began with so much promise; and “Olympic Highlights with Kevin Hart and Snoop Dogg,” recapping the Olympics’ most impressive displays of athleticism and the moments that didn’t go as planned.

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Sabyu (CNMI) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Northern Mariana Islands: Sabyu

State: Northern Mariana Islands
Singer’s name: Sabyu
Hometown: Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands
Resident: Olympia, WA

Matthew Sablan, known musically as Sabyu, is a Pacific Islander singer, songwriter, producer, engineer, artist mentor and multi-instrumentalist. He is known for his eclectic music style combining island roots and Stateside influences alike, blending reggae, rock, soul, hip-hop, funk, jazz and world music. Sabyu mentors young artists with a Seattle-based non-profit, Totem Star, guiding aspiring youth along their own music journeys. He makes music to bring all walks of life together in the name of love, spirit and humanity, and wants to let everyone know that even if you come from a small island, you can make big waves around the world.

 

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Ni/Co (AL) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)

Alabama: Ni/Co

State: Alabama
Group name: Ni/Co
Hometown: Montgomery, AL
Resident: Los Angeles, CA

Ni/Co is a duo made up of Dani Brillhart and Colton Jones. They began gaining popularity in 2019 from their YouTube videos, which have accumulated more than 40 million views. The pop duo has had their music featured on various networks, including the CW, VH1, NBC, BET, TNT, Starz and Freeform. Their growing audience has granted them attention and opportunities to work with brands such as Google, Adobe, Volkswagen, Reese’s, Dell, Chips Ahoy, Fender and more. They have an insatiable passion to perform and pull inspiration from wanting to touch the lives of everyone who hears their music. Ni/Co is so excited to represent Alabama as that is where Colton discovered his love for music and where they played events together which helped them realize their love for performing together, thus creating Ni/Co.

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Ale Zabala (FL) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)Florida: Ale Zabala

State: Florida
Singer’s name: Ale Zabala
Hometown: Miami, FL
Resident: Parkland, FL

Alexa Zabala, known professionally as Ale Zabala, is an American singer, songwriter, musician and dancer. She’s a Latin pop artist as well as a writer for other singers and started writing when she was 13. Ale went to college for music business and met her first producer with whom she began writing all of her songs. She released her first single in 2019 and is constantly in music sessions writing for other artists and working on new musical projects. Ale is ready to represent Florida, where she went to her first concert and to school to study music.

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Tyler Braden (TN) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)Tennessee: Tyler Braden

State: Tennessee
Singer’s Name: Tyler Braden
Hometown: Montgomery, AL
Resident: Nashville, TN

Tyler Braden was inspired to pursue a musical career from a young age by legend Hank Williams. He moved from his small town in Alabama to Nashville to pursue a career in music, teaching himself guitar and working as a firefighter in the meantime. He’s now a budding star with more than 70 million streams to his name and a growing list of major tour credits. In January, Braden made his Grand Ole Opry debut setting the tone for big things to come this year, including representing Tennessee on “American Song Contest.” Tennessee is where his music career really found its footing and he says he owes it all to the state. Tyler is prepared and excited to represent it in the best way he knows how.

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Nitro Nitra (DE) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)Delaware: Nitro Nitra

State: Delaware
Singer’s name: Nitro Nitra
Hometown: Wilmington, DE
Resident: Middletown, DE

Nitro Nitra is a soul-rock singer and has been singing since before she could walk. After moving away, Nitra experienced a spiritual awakening in 2018 that led her to come back to her roots in Delaware. She first performed as Nitro Nitra in 2021 and since then has released an EP, visual album and two singles. Nitra’s goal as a musician is to create a shared experience with her fans where they can open their minds to new levels of existence and awakenings of their own. Nitro Nitra is excited to represent Delaware, where she began her musical journey.

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Brittany Pfantz (LA) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)Louisiana: Brittany Pfantz

State: Louisiana
Singer’s name: Brittany Pfantz
Hometown: DeRidder, LA
Resident: Nashville, TN

Brittany Pfantz’s music is perfumed with the sounds she was raised on: Louisiana swamp, rock, gospel, and down-in-your-gut soul. She parades her roots honestly, like the street bands of New Orleans, where she learned how to stay true to the music and to herself. Brittany just finished recording her debut EP with Grammy Award-winning producer Jacquire King and is currently shopping the project and playing shows around Nashville. She is representing Louisiana because even though she lives in Nashville, it will always be in her roots.

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Grant Knoche (TX) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)Texas: Grant Knoche

State: Texas
Singer’s name: Grant Knoche
Hometown: Frisco, TX
Resident: Los Angeles, CA

Grant Knoche, 19, taught himself to write and produce in his childhood bedroom and he hasn’t looked back since. Grant’s synth-driven, deep bass and intimate pop songs have all been written and produced by him. On his way to gathering over 900,000 followers, Grant has spent most of his life on the road performing more than 160 shows across America, including on “Today,” at Radio City Music Hall, Woodstock and many other locales. Grant’s debut EP, “Color Me Blue,” has been featured on multiple top playlists and he was recently called out by Ones to Watch as “One of today’s finest rising pop stars.” Grant’s excited to represent his home state of Texas.

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Brooke Alexx (NJ) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)New Jersey: Brooke Alexx

State: New Jersey
Singer’s name: Brooke Alexx
Hometown: Old Tappan, NJ
Resident: Nashville, TN

Pop starlet meets girl next door in Brooke Alexx – an Asian-American New Jerseyan songwriter, singer, performer, director and editor. Brooke wields her creative powers to inspire young women just as Taylor Swift inspired her to start writing songs of vulnerability and empowerment at age 13. Her magnetic melodies, paired with her ever-relatable coming-of-age lyrics, have resonated more in 2021 than any other year through a familial-focused EP. Brooke’s confidence and contagious personality oozed into 2022 on the back of her first festival performance at Lollapalooza, a brand collaboration with IKEA and a sync license in Netflix’s film “Resort to Love.”

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Jesse LeProtti (SC) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)South Carolina: Jesse LeProtti

State: South Carolina
Singer’s name: Jesse LeProtti
Hometown: Irmo, SC
Resident: Los Angeles, CA

Jesse Christopher Blocker III, known professionally as Jesse LeProtti, is known for his wide vocal range, crisp live performances and diverse music catalog that includes pop, R&B, soul, electronic and many more styles. Jesse strives to bring back “real music,” making listeners feel a sense of deja vu while keeping it 100% authentic to himself. Being from South Carolina has played a huge role in who he is today – musically and mentally. Two of his biggest musical influences, James Brown and Darius Rucker, are from South Carolina. He is proud to represent his home state as the people of South Carolina have the “go getter” and “never give up” mentality which has led him to where he is today.

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST -- “The Live Qualifiers Part 3” Episode 103 -- Pictured: Judd Hoos (SD) -- (Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC)South Dakota: Judd Hoos

State: South Dakota
Singer’s name: Judd Hoos
Hometown: Spearfish, SD
Resident: Rapid City, SD

Judd Hoos is a rock band from the Black Hills of South Dakota. The band’s line up consists of  Andy Young, Shane Funk, Keithan Funk, Tyler Bills, and Chase Huseby. In the past 12 months, Judd Hoos has released a new EP, “Not Alone,” organized the Nashville Comes to the Black Hills songwriting camp and hosted the first-ever Judd Hoos Charity Jam. They appeared on multiple tour stops with Nashville rockers the Wild Feathers, played close to 100 Midwest clubs, theaters, festivals and fairs and even shared the stage with rock icon Billy Idol. In addition to recording new music, they have renewed a tour sponsorship deal with Remedy Brewing Company for the second straight year and collaborated on their own IPA, Hoos Joos.

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Thane Pullan and Snoop Dogg

Interview with Chicago Med Actors

TV Interview!

 

actors Oliver Platt and Marlyne Barrett, and executive producers Diane Frolov and Andrew Schneider of "Chicago Med" on NBC

Interview with actors Oliver Platt and Marlyne Barrett, and executive producers Diane Frolov and Andrew Schneider of “Chicago Med” on NBC Suzanne 3/30

This was a really enjoyable part of an NBC virtual press day panel. I love Oliver Platt. I remember first seeing him in “The Three Musketeers,” (1993), where he played Porthos. He was in many great movies and TV series. This show has an amazing cast.

 

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Interview with actors Oliver Platt and Marlyne Barrett, and executive producers Diane Frolov and Andrew Schneider of "Chicago Med" on NBC

From Emmy Award-winning executive producer Dick Wolf (the “Law & Order,” “Chicago” and “FBI” brands), “Chicago Med” is an emotional thrill ride through the day-to-day chaos of the city’s newest state-of-the-art trauma center and into the lives of the courageous doctors, nurses and staff who hold it all together.

Dr. Will Halstead (Nick Gehlfuss) finds his career as an emergency medicine physician in jeopardy, following his cover-up involving a serious ethics violation. Dr. Daniel Charles (Oliver Platt) remains the Sherlock Holmes of psychiatry. Sharon Goodwin (S. Epatha Merkerson), the venerable head of the city’s largest hospital, is under intense fiscal scrutiny to preserve the bottom line while continuing to ensure that all patients receive nothing short of quality care and compassion. Dr. Ethan Choi (Brian Tee), a former Navy flight surgeon and chief of the E.D., begins the season in recovery mode after being shot by a former patient. Now it’s up to the blunt but talented Dr. Dean Archer (Steven Weber) to show what he’s made of as interim chief  at the helm of Chicago’s trusted and busiest ER. Maggie Lockwood (Marlyne Barrett), the charge nurse and eyes, ears and brain of the ER, is skilled and confident but finds herself dealing with profound family issues of her own. Ace surgeon Dr. Crockett Marcel (Dominic Rains), the New Orleans-raised surgeon with a breezy manner, has finally started to let his guard down, earning the respect of his colleagues. And now two new doctors have joined the E.D. family. Dr. Stevie Hammer (Kristen Hager) is a brilliant, scrappy emergency medicine doctor with a surprising past and Dr. Dylan Scott (Guy Lockard) is an ex-cop who’s doing a dual residency in emergency medicine and pediatrics.

Together they will confront Chicago’s most critical medical cases and challenging ethical dilemmas with courage, compassion and state-of-the-art treatment. Inspired by ripped-from-the-headlines cases, “Chicago Med” will weave cutting-edge medicine with the personal drama that comes with working in such a high-intensity environment. Through it all, familiar faces from “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago P.D” will intertwine with Chicago’s finest medical heroes.

Dick Wolf, Diane Frolov, Andrew Schneider, Stephen Hootstein, Derek Haas, Arthur Forney, Matt Olmstead, Michael Brandt and Peter Jankowski are executive producers.

“Chicago Med” is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Wolf Entertainment.

Oliver Platt

Dr. Daniel Charles, “Chicago Med”

CHICAGO MED -- Season: 7 -- Pictured: Oliver Platt as Dr. Daniel Charles -- (Photo by: Art Streiber/NBC)
Oliver Platt plays Dr. Daniel Charles on the NBC drama “Chicago Med.”

A multiple Emmy, SAG and Golden Globe Award-nominated actor, Platt’s resume includes recent roles in “Professor Marston and the Wonder Women,” which was nominated for a Saturn Award; “The Ticket,” with Malin Akerman and Dan Stevens; Warren Beatty’s “Rules Don’t Apply,” starring Alden Ehrenreich; “Shut In,” opposite Naomi Watts; “Chef,” opposite Jon Favreau and Dustin Hoffman; “Kill the Messenger,” opposite Jeremy Renner; and Noah Hawley’s Golden Globe-winning television adaptation of “Fargo” for FX.

Platt was featured in the HBO documentary “Love, Marilyn” and the telepic “Bessie,” where he plays writer and artistic photographer Carl Van Vechten. He also co-starred in Showtime’s “The Big C,” starring Laura Linney. Previously, he played George Steinbrenner on the ESPN miniseries “The Bronx is Burning,” opposite John Turturro.

Platt made his producing debut on the indie film “Big Night,” which was co-directed by Stanley Tucci and Campbell Scott. He would later reteam with Tucci in “The Impostors,” which was nominated for the Un Certain Regard Award at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival.

Marlyne Barrett

Maggie Lockwood, “Chicago Med”

CHICAGO MED -- Season: 7 -- Pictured: Marlyne Barrett as Maggie Lockwood -- (Photo by: Art Streiber/NBC)
Marlyne Barrett stars as Maggie Lockwood, the beloved charge nurse who is the hospital emergency department’s eyes, ears and heart, in NBC’s medical drama “Chicago Med.”

Recently, Barrett earned her a NAMIC Vision Award nomination for Best Performance-Drama.

Before starring in “Chicago Med,” Barrett was known to audiences for her dynamic portrayal of Council President Nerese Campbell on the critically acclaimed HBO series “The Wire.” She was also Ian McShane’s trustworthy attaché, Tomasina, on NBC’s “Kings” as well as played Felicia Marquand on the popular F/X series “Damages,” opposite Glenn Close and Rose Byrne. In addition, she appeared on John Ridley’s ABC series “American Crime.”

Barrett’s feature credits include “Hitch,” the 2005 Will Smith comedy, and the indie “Quest,” for director Santiago Rizzo. Barrett also executive produced and starred in the Oscar-nominated short film “Night Call.” A film festival favorite, the acclaimed film went on to earn more than 40 awards, including eight best short film awards (including the Short Film Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival), four best of best/audience awards, and three best lead actress awards. Barrett also appeared opposite Marisa Tomei in the independent feature “After Everything,” which was in competition at SXSW and later released in theaters.

After directing more than 20 regional theater productions in New York, Barrett will make her directorial film debut with “Haimerican,” a short film she also wrote and produced. The film will have its premiere at the Cannes International Pan African Film Festival in October 2020.

Barrett, who is Haitian-American, was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Montreal. She currently divides her time between Chicago and Los Angeles and is happily married to Gavin W. Barrett. Coming from a family of doctors, Barrett promised her parents she would get a nursing degree before pursuing an acting career. A registered nurse, Barrett now has the honor and pleasure of playing one on television.

Please visit the official show site at: https://www.nbc.com/chicago-med

For the latest “Chicago Med” news, videos, and photos, please like on Facebook and follow on Twitter and Instagram:
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Interview with actors Oliver Platt and Marlyne Barrett, and executive producers Diane Frolov and Andrew Schneider of "Chicago Med" on NBC

Interview with Laurence Leboeuf

TV Interview!

 

Laurence Leboeuf of "Transplant" on NBC from her film "Mirror Lake"

Interview with Laurence Leboeuf of “Transplant” on NBC by Suzanne 3/29/22

This was a very fun interview! We did it on Zoom. Unfortunately, the video recording didn’t come out. I hope you can enjoy it, anyway. She’s a wonderful actress, and I really love the show.

1. Mags struggles a bit for a while, with her mentor in the coma. Was that a challenge to play, or fun?

All of the above. It’s always a challenge to bring this character to life because she’s so complicated. Having to deal with not having her mentor around is very difficult for her, and she has to learn how to cope. It’s like her lighthouse has drowned.

2. Then everyone has to contend with the obnoxious new doctor who takes Bishop’s place for awhile, Mark. How was it, welcoming a new actor into the dynamic of the show?

Oh, well, Gord (the actor who plays Mark) is amazing. We had a lot of fun and he fit right in with the rest of us. We were surprised at how well. Even though we hate the character, we liked him as a person. He puts Mags through a lot and makes her doubt herself.

3. Then Mags and Bashir almost kiss and have some awkward moments. When did you know that Mags and Bashir might become a “thing?”

From the beginning, Mags has found him attractive because he’s so smart and has his own unique way of doing things.

4. Without giving us any spoilers, what other challenges does Mags have this season?

Mags has some major changes. She gets interested in cardiology because of what happens with a patient, and it’s really a big deal for her.

5. Now that you’ve been playing her for two seasons, is there anything you’ve learned from her?

I really admire her. She’s very smart and caring. I always want her to be like the Hermione Grainger of the show – the smartest person in the room who comes in and gets the job done.

6. Any fun behind-the-scenes stories you can share?

Oh, there are so many. It’s hard to think of one on the spot. We just have a lot of fun. The only thing I can think of right now is that when we have a lot of medical dialogue to memorize, we joke around a lot about it. We get to know it so well that we know each other’s dialogue, and we rap it or do fun things with it.

7. Do you have any other projects you’re working on besides Transplant?

Not right now because it’s a 10 month shoot, so it takes up all of my time.

8. What has the fan response been like for you so far?

It’s been wonderful. Fans have been really nice and it’s great that we have so many fans and viewers. Now it’s crossed over the border, so that’s nice.

9. Anything else you’d like to say to the fans?

Just thank you for watching and I hope you enjoy this season.

Check out our previous interview with her!

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Laurence Leboeuf

Dr. Magalie “Mags” Leblanc

TRANSPLANT -- Season 2 -- Pictured: Laurence Leboeuf as Magalie Leblanc -- (Photo by: Yan Turcotte/Sphere Media/CTV/NBC)
Laurence Leboeuf is an award-winning actress from Montreal who stars as Dr. Magalie “Mags” Leblanc in NBC’s “Transplant.” Mags is a ferociously analytical resident who pushes herself relentlessly.

The bilingual actress (French and English) has been acting professionally since 10 years old and rose to stardom with multiple award nominations and wins. She has continuously booked leading roles in both television and film of French Canadian and English-Canadian productions.

Award wins for Leboeuf include the Gemeaux Awards (French Canadian Emmys) for Best Actress in the series “Les Lavigueur,” Best Supporting Actress for her role in the series “Musee Eden” and Best Actress for her role in the series “Marche A. L’ombre,” which also won her the Best Leading Actress award at the French Festival Séries Mania. She also won Best Actress for “Human Trafficking” (featuring Mira Sorvino and Donald Sutherland) at the ACTRA Awards (English Canadian SAG Awards). For her film work, Leboeuf won at the Prix Iris Awards (previously Jutra Awards) for Best Supporting Actress in “My Daughter, My Angel.” Her indie action-comedy film “Turbo Kid” was widely received at the Sundance Film Festival.

Leboeuf was born to actor-parents and grew up surrounded by creative arts. Her dad owned a stage theater for 18 years, which allowed Leboeuf to explore the behind-the-scenes of the craft. She is driven by the passion of acting and the need to be creative with plans to produce and write. Leboeuf enjoys reading and staying active with running, snowboarding and loves to travel.

Transplant

Sundays on NBC (10-11 p.m. ET); Season Premiere: March 6

“Transplant” follows the story of Dr. Bashir “Bash” Hamed (Hamza Haq), a talented doctor and Syrian refugee, who fled his war-torn country with his younger sister, Amira (Sirena Gulamgaus), for a fresh start in Canada. After a truck crashes into the restaurant where he’s been working, Bash earns the chance to practice medicine again by using his field-honed skills to save multiple lives in brilliant fashion, including that of Dr. Jed Bishop (John Hannah), the Chief of Emergency Medicine at York Memorial Hospital in Toronto.

But Bash is told he’ll need to redo his residency in Emergency Medicine from the bottom and despite his obvious talents intuition, and training, starting over is not an easy road and his life experience is not a perfect match for the strict protocols at York Memorial. Through perseverance he makes inroads, developing camaraderie with his new colleagues, including the driven Dr. Magalie “Mags” LeBlanc (Laurence Leboeuf), the reserved and ambitious surgical resident Dr. June Curtis (Ayisha Issa), easy-going pediatric ER physician Dr. Theo Hunter (Jim Watson), head nurse Claire Malone (Torri Higginson) and even earning the respect of Dr. Wendy Atwater (Linda E. Smith), the department’s second-in-command who runs a very tight ship.

Jed Bishop (John Hannah), the team’s demanding, inscrutable boss, looms large and keeps everyone on their toes with a unique compassion and commitment to his staff that also connects them.

Season two picks up with Bash and his fellow residents reeling after Dr. Bishop suffers a stroke. With everything at the hospital destabilized, the place that Bash had started to consider home suddenly feels precarious. As the team adjusts to new colleagues while dealing with the challenges of life, unexpected faces from the past leave Bash seriously doubting whether his transplant into this new world was successful.

Bash’s hard work, compassion and hopefulness tell a universal story about the human ability to not only survive, but ultimately thrive when our lives suddenly change course.

Creator Joseph Kay returns as showrunner and executive producer. Director Stefan Pleszczynski joins as executive producer and will direct six episodes. Additional executive producers include Bruno Dubé, Jocelyn Deschênes, Virginia Rankin, Tara Woodbury, Josée Vallée and Adam Barken.

“Transplant” is produced by Sphere Media in association with CTV and Universal International Studios, a division of Universal Studio Group.

Please visit the official show site at: https://www.nbc.com/transplant.

For the latest “Transplant” news, videos, and photos, please like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram:

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Laurence Leboeuf of "Transplant" on NBC

Interview with “Chicago PD” Actors

TV Interview!

Jason Beghe and Marina Squerciati of "Chicago PD" on NBC

Interview with actors Jason Beghe and Marina Squerciati, and executive producer Gwen Sigan of “Chicago P.D.” on NBC by Suzanne 3/30/22

This was from a fun virtual press day with the “Chicago One” actors. They were great at answering our questions!

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Chicago Fire interview Chicago Med Interview

Jason Beghe and Marina Squerciati of "Chicago PD" on NBCFrom multiple Emmy Award-winning executive producer Dick Wolf and the team behind the hit series “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago Med,” “Chicago P.D.” is a riveting police drama about the men and women of the Chicago Police Department’s elite Intelligence Unit, combatting the city’s most heinous offenses – organized crime, drug trafficking, high-profile murders and beyond.

At the center of “Chicago P.D.” is Sgt. Hank Voight (Jason Beghe), who is at ground zero against the war on crime in Chicago. He will do almost anything to bring criminals to justice. In the past year, Voight has fought to turn over a new leaf, carefully navigating the situation at the P.D. with a new boss who has helped him and the unit adapt to a new reality.

His close-knit team of detectives share his passion for keeping the city safe, including Det. Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer), a committed and ethical detective who previously served in Afghanistan; Officer Adam Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger), a quick-thinker who often leads with his heart; Officer Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati), a fearless former patrol officer whose research and astute observations often lead the team in the right direction; Officer Kevin Atwater (LaRoyce Hawkins), a bright and quietly charismatic member of the team; and Det. Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos), a seasoned detective whose tough demeanor belies her complicated emotions.

Desk Sgt. Trudy Platt (Amy Morton) runs a tight precinct with a firm hand, although she lets her humor shine through from time to time.

In addition to Wolf, executive producers include Rick Eid, Derek Haas, Arthur W. Forney, Peter Jankowski and Michael Brandt. “Chicago P.D.” is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Wolf Entertainment.

Please visit the official show site at: https://www.nbc.com/chicago-pd.

For the latest “Chicago P.D.” news, videos, and photos, please like on Facebook, follow on Twitter and Instagram

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Jason Beghe

Sgt. Hank Voight, “Chicago P.D.”

CHICAGO P.D. -- Season: 9 -- Pictured: Jason Beghe as Hank Voight -- (Photo by: Art Streiber/NBC)

Jason Beghe stars as Sgt. Hank Voight, leader of the Chicago P.D. Intelligence Unit in the NBC drama “Chicago P.D.”

Beghe was born and raised in New York City, where he attended the prestigious Collegiate School.

Beghe portrayed a quadriplegic in the George A. Romero film “Monkey Shines: An Experiment in Fear.” He later appeared as a police officer in the film “Thelma & Louise” and played Demi Moore’s love interest in “G.I. Jane.” Other feature-film credits include “X-Men: First Class,” “The Next Three Days,” “One Missed Call” and “Atlas Shrugged: Part II.”

On television, Beghe’s recurring roles include “Chicago Fire,” “Law & Order: SVU” and “Californication.” He has guest-starred on countless series, including “Last Resort,” “Castle,” “NCIS,” “CSI: New York,” “Criminal Minds,” “The Finder,” “Prime Suspect,” “Law & Order: Los Angeles,” “Picket Fences,” “Chicago Hope,” “American Dreams” and “Cane.”

Beghe lives in Los Angeles.

Marina Squerciati

Officer Kim Burgess, “Chicago P.D.”

CHICAGO P.D. -- Season: 9 -- Pictured: Marina Squerciati as Kim Burgess -- (Photo by: Art Streiber/NBC)
Marina Squerciati stars as Officer Kim Burgess in NBC’s hit drama “Chicago P.D.”

Squerciati was last seen in the Reginald Hudlin-directed film “Marshall.” Additional film credits include “It’s Complicated,” along with indies “Alter Egos,” “Central Park” and “Sparks.”

Squerciati earned acclaim portraying Russian spy Irina in the popular FX drama “The Americans.” Additional television credits include “Gossip Girl.” “The Good Wife,” “Blue Bloods,” “Damages” and “Law and Order: SVU.”

In theater, she made her Broadway debut in an adaptation of Ernst Lubitsch’s “To Be or Not to Be.” On Off Broadway, she starred in “Manipulation” and “Beauty of the Father,” and also performed in several regional theater productions, including “The 39 Steps” and “The Underpants.”

Squerciati graduated from Northwestern University with a B.A. in theater.

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Jason Beghe and Marina Squerciati of "Chicago PD" on NBC

Interview with “Chicago Fire” actors

TV Interview!

 

actors Eamonn Walker and Hanako Greensmith, and executive producers Derek Haas and Andrea Newman of "Chicago Fire" on NBC

Interview with actors Eamonn Walker and Hanako Greensmith, and executive producers Derek Haas and Andrea Newman of “Chicago Fire” on NBC by Suzanne 3/30/22

This was a fun press day, dubbed One Chicago Day.  OneChicago Wednesdays return with originals on April 6! I’ve spoken with Eamonn before, but it’s always nice to see and hear him because he’s got such a beautiful voice and presence. Hanako is new to me, and fairly new to the show. She’s just been made a regular on the series. We hope to have the transcripts up soon, and don’t miss the show! It’s a very exciting episode and, unlike the other two shows that night, there is no spewing blood or vomit.

 

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Interview with Chicago PD  Interview with Chicago Med

“CHICAGO FIRE” — “KEEP YOU SAFE” (Wednesday, April 6 at 9 p.m. ET/PT)
Severide and Kidd work with CPD regarding a suspicious car wreck. Hawkins and Violet’s relationship is in jeopardy. Chloe and Cruz adjust to a new family dynamic.

Chicago Fire

Wednesdays on NBC (9-10 p.m. ET); Returns: Jan. 5

Chicago Fire: Season 10 key art

From renowned Emmy Award-winning executive producer Dick Wolf (“Law & Order” brand) and co-creator Derek Haas, the writer behind “3:10 to Yuma,” comes season 10 of the adrenaline-fueled drama “Chicago Fire.” This edge-of-your-seat ride is a look into the professional and personal lives of the firefighters and paramedics of Firehouse 51 as they risk their lives every day to save and protect the citizens of Chicago.

Led by Lt. Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), Rescue Squad 3 works closely with Lt. Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) on Engine 51 and Lt. Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) on Truck 81. Their tireless, never-give-up mindset brings them all closer together – the men and women of Firehouse 51 are more than co-workers, they’re family.

The firehouse also includes Deputy District Chief Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker), who keeps his house running smoothly and his firefighters prepared to overcome all adversity. Paramedic Sylvie Brett (Kara Killmer) returns alongside seasoned veterans Randy “Mouch” McHolland (Christian Stolte) and Joe Cruz (Joe Minoso).

Completing the team are daredevil Blake Gallo (Alberto Rosende), talented and dedicated Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri), and 51’s newest addition, headstrong paramedic Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith).

Executive producers are Dick Wolf, Derek Haas, Andrea Newman, Michael Gilvary, Reza Tabrizi, Arthur Forney and Peter Jankowski.

“Chicago Fire” is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Wolf Entertainment.
Eamonn Walker of "Chicago Fire" on NBCEamonn Walker

Battalion Chief Wallace Boden, “Chicago Fire”

Eamonn Walker plays Battalion Chief Wallace Boden on the NBC drama “Chicago Fire.”

Walker was born in London and attended Hungerford School in Islington. He went on to study social work at the University of North London, and eventually trained as a dancer. He then joined the Explosive Dance Theatre Company in London. He also studied at the New York Film Academy.

Walker made his professional acting debut in 1983 on stage in London in the musical “Labelled with Love,” based on the music of the pop band Squeeze. In the U.S. he is known for playing Kareem Saïd on the HBO television series “Oz,” for which he won a CableACE Award.

His film roles include “Tears of The Sun” and “Lord of War,” opposite Nicolas Cage. He returned to British television in the ITV1 production of “Othello,” opposite Christopher Eccleston. For his role, he won the Best Male Performance in Television Award at the first Black Film Makers (BFM) Film and Television Awards ceremony.

He made his debut on Broadway, playing Mark Antony in “Julius Caesar,” opposite Denzel Washington as Marcus Brutus. Two years later, he became the first Black actor to play the role of Othello at either the original Globe Theatre or at the modern reconstruction, Shakespeare’s Globe, in London.

He recently starred in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Between Riverside and Crazy” at the Steppenwolf Theater. For his performance as Pops, he was nominated for a Jeff Award and won best actor from the 2016 Black Excellence Award Committee.

Hanako Greensmith of "Chicago Fire" on NBC
Hanako Greensmith

Violet Mikami, “Chicago Fire”
Hanako Greensmith plays Violet Mikami on the NBC drama “Chicago Fire.”

Recent TV credits include “Chicago Med,” “Bull” and “FBI.” She made her New York theater debut in the Off-Broadway production of “Lolita, My Love” and is a graduate of Pace University.

 

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Eamonn Walker of "Chicago Fire" on NBCHanako Greensmith of "Chicago Fire" on NBC

Interview with Josh Duhamel

TV Interview!

Actors Josh Duhamel, Renée Zellweger, Judy Greer, Glenn Fleshler; and producers Liz Cole, Jenny Klein and Chris McCumber of "The Thing About Pam" on NBC.

Interview with Actors Josh Duhamel, Renée Zellweger, Judy Greer, Glenn Fleshler; and producers Liz Cole, Jenny Klein and Chris McCumber of “The Thing About Pam” on NBC by Suzanne 2/11/22

This show is very well done, so I hope you can watch and enjoy it. It’s a sort of docu-drama, where real actors portray real people in their real situations (in this case, murder), but it’s also done with a slight bit of humor. It has a great cast.

I was very happy to be able to speak to Josh Duhamel, who’s one of my favorite actors. It was great to see Renée Zellweger and Judy Greer, too. Of course Renée is not only the star of the show, but she’s the most famous person in the show and in our panel. Greer does one of the voices on “Archer” on FX, so I’m quite familiar with her. She’s done a lot of other acting, as well. Almost everyone in the press asked Renée or the producers a question, so I was glad to be able to ask Josh one. I felt bad for the other actors that were ignored.

THE THING ABOUT PAM -- "She's a Good Friend" Episode 101 -- Pictured: Renée Zellweger as Pam Hupp -- (Photo by: Skip Bolen/NBC)NBCUNIVERSAL
WINTER 2022 TCA VIRTUAL PRESS TOUR
NBC The Thing About Pam
Josh Duhamel, Talent, “Joel Schwartz”
Glenn Fleshler, Talent, “Russ Faria”
Judy Greer, Talent, “Leah Askey”
Renée Zellweger, Talent, “Pam Hupp”/Executive Producer
Liz Cole, Executive Producer/President, NBC News Studios
Jenny Klein, Showrunner/Executive Producer
Chris McCumber, Executive Producer/President, Blumhouse Television
Virtual via Zoom February 11, 2022
© 2022 NBCUniversal, Inc. All rights reserved.

“The Thing About Pam” is based on the 2011 murder of Betsy Faria that resulted in her husband Russ’s conviction, although he insisted he didn’t kill her. He was later exonerated. This brutal crime set off a chain of events that would expose a diabolical scheme deeply involving Pam Hupp. A thorough examination of the scheme was featured on several episodes of “Dateline NBC,” becoming one of the show’s most popular subjects. It also became the subject of a popular 2019 podcast, “The Thing About Pam,” which has been downloaded over 20 million times. “The Thing About Pam” will premiere Tuesday, March 8th, at 10 p.m., and run for six episodes.

Josh Duhamel in "The Thing About Pam" on NBCHere was my question for Josh: “What can you tell us about your character, Joel?”

He replied, “Gosh, where do I begin?” He told us that he became “pretty good friends” with Joel “throughout this process.” The Joel in the TV show “was just a really fun character to dive into. He’s a defense attorney and has defended the worst of the worst, and I think [he] came into this expecting the same as what’s he done in the past, [which] is defending a guilty man, and [then] he quickly finds out that …Russell didn’t do this.” He enjoyed picking Joel’s brain about how “he evolved throughout the process.” At first Joel was just doing his regular job, but then he realized that his client was not guilty, so he was determined, “like, a dog with a bone” by the end of it. He “really took it personally and really wanted to see justice. And I think that that’s what was really fun for me.” He added, “You know, obviously, it wasn’t as much of a stretch, this character, as it was for Renée or, you know, Glenn, or even Judy, but it was really fun to sort of try to [act out] the frustration that he had to feel throughout this process [because it] was something that was [difficult], but at the same time, he was a really cool dude; never really lost his temper, except for a few times….Me, as Josh, I would have lost it several times, but Joel Schwartz didn’t.” What was interesting for Josh was figuring out how Joel handled that. “And so, he was a really valuable resource for me throughout this whole process, and turns out to be a really great dude.”

Of course, almost everyone wanted to speak with Renée, the star. First, she was asked about her return to TV, since she’s mostly done films. Renée answered that she really liked it. The pace and everything suits her. She said, “I love that it’s quick, and you have to think fast on your feet. Yeah, I enjoyed it a lot. Not so different from making the independent films. You know, you’ve got to make the most of the little bit of time that you have. So, it’s good training, I think, for independent films,” she laughed.

She was next asked to compare the role she played of Judy Garland in he 2019 film with playing Pam, since both were real life people. The reporter figures that she had more leeway to play Pam, since she’s not as famous.

Renée mostly agreed with what was said. There is a lot more material of Judy to use than Pam Hupp. She’s not sure that she has much more freedom to play Pam, since there is some information out there already, and they had to recreate her as best as they could so that people who were familiar with her could recognize her. She admitted, “Yes, of course, I could see that people project their own life experiences in making assumptions about the character of this person, whom they think they know. That felt important. And it’s pretty well established, her looks. So, we did what we could to come as close as we could.”

Renée Zellweger as Pam HuppRenée was also asked how much the prosthetics, costumes and wigs affect her performance and whether those present any special challenges. Renée laughed at that question and said that most of them would agree that using those things benefit an actor as it’s “part of your toolkit that makes it …easier to achieve what it is that you’re trying to, in terms of telling someone else’s story.” Speaking as an actor, she said that “the further you are away from yourself, the safer you feel to explore.” All of the actors went through “pretty remarkable transformations” to represent the real people. She asked Judy if that was “half the fun.” Judy agreed that it does make it easier to act like the person when you “have all that stuff on” and that it is like you’re “hiding” and “don’t feel as vulnerable.” She added, “And the crew is always surprised to see what you really look like when you do show up as yourself.” She laughed.

Josh joked, “Personally, I loved the wig. It made me feel like I had a full head of hair again. Like Judy said, I looked like Tom Hanks in ‘Splash.'” Everyone laughed at that. Judy made a joke at her expense that “Splash” is “such a hip reference. I got my finger on the pulse, you know?” which evoked more laughter.

Renée was asked next what about the character or the writing brought her to the series.

Renée confided that the script hadn’t yet been written when she signed on to the project, but she wanted to be part of the process of creating the show from the materials that were available, such as the podcast and the episodes of “Dateline.” She said that it was “Thrilling to be …alongside to witness that.” She remarked that it was the kind of story that “you couldn’t make up.” She shared with us that she listened to the entire podcast “when I was driving up and down the 5 Freeway, going to take my dog to get his hip replaced up in San Francisco, and I couldn’t believe it.” She called it an “experience of escalating absurdities.” She felt it would make an interesting show and would also allow them to “discuss some really important, current, relevant social issues.” Some people laughed at this as well.

The next reporter asked the producers how they figured out what tone they wanted to use for the series, since it was true crime, and how they cast Renée, and how she had to change her looks to play Pam.

Producer Chris let us know that Renée was the one to call him: “I’ll say this, and I’ll keep it really simple: When a two time Oscar winner calls and says, ‘I’m obsessed with this story, and I want to play Pam, and I want to produce,’ I mean, you say, ‘Yes, yes, yes, and yes.’ And our job, at that point, is to, you know, provide Renée, and the rest of the cast, with all the tools that they need to embody these characters.” He concluded that it was an easy choice, with this cast.

The cast of "The Thing About Pam" on NBCCreator/Producer Jenny also added, “Yes, we’re so lucky to have Renée embodying this totally unique character, and on the show, a lot of the absurdity comes from Pam herself.” She addressed the question about the tone of the show. She described how they had to have a real balance between the tragic story and how it was “so disturbing and unspeakable,” as well as showing the “absurd details that Pam really did or said.” The heart of show, she relayed, was Betsy and her family, and “that grounding emotional center with Russ, or Betsy’s daughter, Mariah. And so, when you’re really feeling their raw pain and frustration, it can actually make Pam’s actions all the more upsetting. So, I’d say it’s a real push and pull between the levity and the drama. It’s like a hybrid.”

Chris praised Jenny’s pitch, where she described the tone of show using examples from “Fargo.” The dark streak of humor comes from Pam’s psyche.

Jenny admitted that she’d never seen someone like Pam on TV before. She’s “completely unfazed when caught in a lie, and changing her story so much. It almost creates like a game for the viewer, where they’re the only ones actually tracking Pam’s lies through her world because they’re the only ones taking in the show as a whole.”

They were also asked why this murder case was different from the others that they wanted to make it into this miniseries.

Jenny let us know that the cooperation between NBC and all of the reporting done by Dateline, along with the other production companies were what infused the horror and other elements into the show. She believes that, “it’s a true-crime story that, in some ways, won’t leave you feeling depressed, but will keep you on the edge of your seat because there’s so many twists and turns.”

Chris asked Liz to chime in on this particular question. Liz revealed that they’ve wanted to make a good script based on one of the “Dateline” stories. This story about Pam Hupp was the only one they considered because it’s so rich and resonates well with “Dateline viewers. She added, “when we first embarked on this, I don’t think I imagined, in my wildest dreams, that we would have Renée Zellweger staring as Pam, and the rest of the incredible cast, and, you know, working with Blumhouse has just been a joy. So, it’s been a wonderful partnership.” Chris agreed with those comments and praised the partnership.

Josh also put in his two cents, saying, “I can’t believe this hasn’t happened earlier” because he’s a long-time “Dateline” fan and remembered thinking that this story would make a great movie or TV show. He stated, “You wouldn’t believe this story if it weren’t true.” To this note, Liz added that they called their second episode “Stranger than Fiction.” She also jokingly said to Josh that they needed to send Josh his own “Dateline” hat. He replied, “Please do. And if you could have Keith Morrison send me a Christmas card every year, that would be great, too.” Liz postulated, “An audio card.” Then, Josh did a fantastic imitation of Keith Morrison, saying, “Merry Christmas, Josh”, so everyone laughed.

The next reporter asked two questions in one, even though we’re not supposed to do that. He or she asked whether any of the real-life family members were involved in creating the show, as well as asked Renée how she prepared to play such an evil person, when she’s not that way at all in real life.

Jenny replied that they took their responsibilities of bringing a real-life story to life seriously. They contacted many of the people involved with Pam Hupp’s case who knew her, and many spoke with them so that they could get the full story. However, she stipulated that they also had to make it a dramatic story for TV, so some of it is fiction. Renée added her answer to what Jenny said. Hearing about the real life Pam, seeing videos, reading books etc. helped prepare her for the role.

Judy Greer as Leah AskeyRenée was also asked about using prosthetics on the show to look like Pam. This type of process was pretty new to Renée, so she learned quite a bit about it. Apparently the pieces often fall off or turn into something else by the end of the day. She had to learn to act more with her whole body covered in these prosthetics. She had to learn a new skill. At the beginning of shooting, it took “about four hours” by prosthetic makeup designer & creator Arjen Tuiten and his team, but then because of his “genius,” they were able to cut it down to 2 1/2 hours. She found it to be quite “fun creatively.” Then she reflected that it might make her “a crazy person to find that fun, gluing stuff to your head every day, but I did find it fun.” She said that Judy also had some prosthetics, but Judy replied that she just put on a wig. Everyone laughed at that. Josh pointed out that she also had contacts to deal with. This article offers free shipping on qualified products, https://www.fakewatch.is/product-category/richard-mille/rm-53-01/ or buy online and pick up in store today at Medical Department.

Glenn added that he just had to sit there. He couldn’t imagine what Renée had to go through every day, spending hours putting the prosthetics on, and then “show up on set with the spirit that she had and has every day, it’s really remarkable.” He praised her quite a lot.

The next journalist asked about Renée’s accent and how she put on Pam’s attitude. He/she asked if Renée visited a lot of “convenience stores” to get more of a feeling for them (which seemed like kind of an odd question).

Renée said kindly that she loves to take road trips, so convenience stores are not new to her. She had a hard time getting the accent right, saying it was “elusive.” She found that even within the region she lived, Pam had a “peculiar” accent that was uniquely hers. She listened to a lot of recordings of Pam, repeating what she said until she got it right.

Next the producers were asked how they’re able to have the actors portray real-life people (other than Pam) – whether they have to be sensitive to how they are and whether they worry about having them be too comical or whether they get permission.

Glenn Fleshler as Russ FariaJenny replied that they tried as much as possible to stick to the facts, which they had from court transcripts and video coverage (thanks to NBC news). She pointed out that “there’s certainly the law enforcement and prosecution side of the story that is very specific to this town and brings out one of our greater themes, which is about confirmation bias, and what happened to Russ Faria.”

They were also asked about what challenges they faced with creating a fictional story based on a pretty recent true story.

Jenny told us that the goal is to make the viewers feel heartbroken when they should be (about the families involved) and to also “recognize the absurdity” about it.

Chris jumped in to say that they also had the goal to make it a “really great entertaining piece of premium television.” He mentioned that it’s difficult in today’s TV landscape to get people’s attention and to create an event that will make the show break out from the other “millions of hours of shows.”

The producers were also asked about how they went about making this fiction and not just another retelling of the Dateline episodes or a podcast. Jenny praised their “amazing cast” for “bringing these people to life in ways that a podcast, by its nature, simply can’t.” They also “were able to just delve deeper into who Pam is” and really show the emotion of the story to the audience that those other outlets couldn’t do.

When the panel concluded, and the host said that the next panel would be for “Law & Order,” Josh joked, “Can I be on that one, too?” and Jenny replied, “No.” That ended the panel with more laughter. All that laughter is the sign of a great panel, and they also made a great show on top of that. It airs Tuesdays, 10/9c.

MORE INFO:

The Thing About Pam

Tuesdays on NBC (10-11 p.m. ET); Series Premiere: March 8

NBC’s “The Thing About Pam” is based on the 2011 murder of Betsy Faria that resulted in her husband Russ’s conviction, although he insisted he didn’t kill her. He was later exonerated. This brutal crime set off a chain of events that would expose a diabolical scheme deeply involving Pam Hupp.

A thorough examination of the scheme was featured on several episodes of “Dateline NBC,” becoming one of the most popular topics to ever air on the hit franchise. It also became the subject of a popular 2019 podcast, “The Thing About Pam,” which has been downloaded over 20 million times.

The series stars Renée Zellweger, Josh Duhamel, Judy Greer, Katy Mixon, Glenn Fleshler, Gideon Adlon, Sean Bridgers, Suanne Spoke and Mac Brandt.

“The Thing About Pam” is executive produced by Renée Zellweger, Carmella Casinelli, Jenny Klein (showrunner), Mary-Margaret Kunze, Scott Winant, Jessika Borsiczky, Liz Cole, Noah Oppenheim, Jason Blum, Chris McCumber and Jeremy Gold.

Blumhouse Television, NBC News Studios and Big Picture Co. will produce.

Renée ZellwegerRenée Zellweger

Pam Hupp, “The Thing About Pam”

Renée Zellweger stars as Pam Hupp in the NBC limited series “The Thing About Pam.”

Zellweger most recently starred as the legendary Judy Garland in “Judy,” winning the Academy Award, BAFTA, Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild and Critics Choice awards for the film.

She will soon begin production on the feature film “The Back Nine” in the role of a former golfer who set her clubs aside to make way for her husband’s pro career and raise her son, only to then turn pro during the “back nine” of her life. Zellweger serves as an executive producer on both “The Back Nine” and “The Thing About Pam” through her production company, Big Picture Co.

Zellweger is known globally for her starring role as the seminal British everywoman in the film “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” for which she received an Oscar nomination, and the sequels “Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason” and “Bridget Jones’s Baby.” She also earned an Academy Award nomination as convicted killer Roxie Hart in “Chicago” and won her first Oscar in the category of Best Supporting Actress for Anthony Minghella’s “Cold Mountain.”

After graduating with an English degree from the University of Texas, Zellweger made her feature film debut in Richard Linklater’s seminal coming-of-age film “Dazed and Confused.” Other film roles quickly followed, including “Reality Bites,” “Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation” and “My Boyfriend’s Back.” Zellweger soon after won the affection of audiences with her breakthrough role in “Jerry Maguire.”

Additional credits include “One True Thing,” “Nurse Betty,” “Me, Myself & Irene,” “White Oleander,” and “Cinderella Man.” She has also lent her voice to such animated features as “Shark Tale,” “Bee Movie” and “Monsters vs. Aliens” and made her television debut in the Netflix limited series “What/If.”

Josh DuhamelJosh Duhamel

Joel Schwartz, “The Thing About Pam”

Josh Duhamel plays Joel Schwartz in the NBC limited series “The Thing About Pam.”

Duhamel most recently starred in the Netflix original series “Jupiter’s Legacy,” based on the comic series of the same name. Next up, he co-stars opposite Jennifer Lopez in “Shotgun Wedding,” which is slated for a summer release. Duhamel also recently wrapped the bank heist thriller “Bandit,” alongside Mel Gibson, and the action crime film “Blackout.”

On television, Duhamel is known for his role on the NBC drama “Las Vegas.” Additionally, he lent his voice to Nickelodeon’s Emmy Award-winning animated series “Fanboy & Chum Chum” and starred in several seasons of the long-running ABC soap opera “All My Children,” for which he received three consecutive Daytime Emmy nominations. Other recent TV credits include CBS’ “Battle Creek” and the J.J. Abrams mini-series “11.22.63” on Hulu.

Film credits include “Think Like a Dog,” “The Lost Husband,” “Love, Simon,” “Transformers” and “New Year’s Eve.”

Duhamel made his directorial debut at the 2019 Mammoth Film Festival with “The Buddy Games,” for which he also co-wrote, co-produced, and starred.

Glenn FleshlerGlenn Fleshler

Russ Faria, “The Thing About Pam”

Glenn Fleshler stars as Russ Faria in the NBC limited series “The Thing About Pam.”

Fleshler recently played Randall in “The Joker,” opposite Joaquin Phoenix, and continues to recur on Showtime’s “Billions.” Previously, he portrayed the terrifying Yellow King on the first season of HBO’s “True Detective.”

Other TV roles include “Barry,” “Boardwalk Empire,” “For Life,” “Watchmen,” Waco,” “The Twilight Zone” and “The Night Of.”

In film, Fleshler has worked with A-list directors that include Barry Levinson, Woody Allen, Kenneth Lonergan, Tom McCarthy, JC Chandor, Todd Phillips and Andrew Jarecki.  In the theater, he has worked with directors and playwrights that include Mike Nichols, Tony Kushner, Edward Albee, Tom Stoppard and David Hare.

Fleshler earned an MFA from the NYU Graduate Acting program.

Judy GreerJudy Greer

Leah Askey, “The Thing About Pam”

Judy Greer stars as Leah Askey in the new NBC limited series “The Thing About Pam.”

Greer’s career in both film and television has been extremely prolific, with her appearing in nearly 200 roles to date, including the Blumhouse reboot of “Halloween, directed by David Gordon Green and starring Jamie Lee Curtis. She most recently filmed HBO’s limited series “White House Plumbers,” opposite Woody Harrelson and Justin Theroux, and will be co-starring in “Reboot” from “Modern Family” co-creator Steve Levitan.

Greer’s feature credits include “The Descendants,” “Jurassic World,” Driven,” “Where’d You Go, Bernadette,” and many others.

On the TV side, Greer’s many credits include “Archer,” “Kidding,” “Let’s Go Luna,” “Married,” “Arrested Development,” “Casual,” “Two and a Half Men” and “Masters of Sex.”

Greer made her feature film directorial debut in 2018 with “A Happening of Monumental Proportions.” The film premiered at the Bentonville Film Festival where it won the Audience Spotlight Award. Previously, she directed an AOL original short that documents the practice of Transcendental Meditation and how it has changed the lives of teachers and students who learned the practice from the David Lynch Foundation.

Chris McCumberChris McCumber

Executive Producer, “The Thing About Pam”

Chris McCumber is the President of Blumhouse Television. In his role, he oversees all aspects of the television business for the company, known for pioneering a new model of studio filmmaking: producing high-quality micro-budget films and provocative, award-winning television series.

The multimedia company is one of the most successful independent studios in history with more than $4.8 billion in collective box office receipts from its films and has produced over 150 films and television series.

McCumber oversees a development slate of more than 20 sold projects, with several in production for Netflix, NBC, HBO, Disney+, Peacock and Epix, including the ongoing series “The Horror of Dolores Roach.” Since joining the company a little over one year ago, he has secured rights to develop elusive and highly sought after IP, including Patricia Cornwell’s “Kay Scarpetta” series of books; the WWE’s first dramatic scripted series, “The United States vs. Vince McMahon”; and “Battersea Poltergeist,” based on the wildly popular BBC Radio 4 podcast. He was instrumental in Blumhouse Television and ITV America’s exclusive pact to produce unscripted, large-format television series, developing projects such as “Escape the Maze,” a genre-themed escape and competition format, and “Celebrity Castle,” based on the international hit “I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here!”

Upcoming is the highly anticipated NBC limited series “The Thing About Pam,” starring two-time Oscar winner Renée Zellweger; John Lee Hancock’s film “Mr. Harrigan’s Phone,” based on the Stephen King novel for Netflix; “Torn Hearts,” starring Katey Sagal and airing on Epix; and “Worst Roommate Ever,” a docuseries for Netflix.

Before being named President of Blumhouse Television, McCumber held several positions at NBCUniversal over a successful 20-year tenure, most recently as President, Entertainment Networks from 2016-20 overseeing the company’s USA and SYFY cable networks. Prior to that, he held several leadership roles at USA as Senior Vice President, On-Air Promotion and head of marketing before becoming President, USA Network, during which time USA remained the #1 entertainment network on cable for 14 consecutive years – the longest streak in television history – and launched top-rated and award-winning original programming, including “Mr. Robot,” “The Sinner,” “Suits,” “Chrisley Knows Best,” “The Purge,” “Monk” and “Psych.” McCumber also oversaw USA’s long-term relationship with the WWE, including the top-rated marquee programs, “Monday Night Raw” and “NXT.”

Before joining USA, McCumber was creative director for the media and entertainment practice at Lee Hunt Associates and Razorfish, where he led teams focused on brand strategy and creative solutions for linear and broadband entertainment companies. While there, he worked with more than 100 media brands, including NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX/News Corp, Disney, HBO, SiriusXM and Turner Networks

McCumber began his career at MTV Networks as associate producer before joining the on-air promotion team that launched Comedy Central. An accomplished commercial film director, he helmed 14 short films for NBC’s “Saturday Night Live,” titled “Fuzzy Memories by Jack Handy.”

McCumber is a government and law graduate of Lafayette College and currently serves on their Board of Trustees. He was recently named to Variety’s 2021 Dealmakers Impact Report alongside Blumhouse CEO and founder Jason Blum and Blumhouse President Charles Layton.

Liz ColeLiz Cole

Executive Producer, “The Thing About Pam”

Liz Cole is the president of NBC News Studios, a new division of NBC News that produces premium documentaries, docuseries and select scripted programming. She is also the executive producer of “Dateline NBC,” the longest-running series in NBC primetime history.

Since launching NBC News Studios in 2020, Cole has developed and executive produced an array of premium documentaries and docuseries, including “Memory Box: Echoes of 9/11,” which screened at the Toronto Film Festival, and the upcoming “Diamond Hands: The Legend of WallStreetBets,” which will premiere at SXSW next month.

Serving as executive producer of “Dateline NBC” since 2011, Cole is responsible for the production of all episodes, investigative reports, podcasts and special series. Now in its 30th season, the series airs across NBC, cable and in broadcast syndication, with hundreds of hours available to stream on Peacock’s Dateline 24/7 channel. The newsmagazine, which was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame in 2019, also reaches millions through its #1 podcasts and its showcast.

Cole has won six Emmy Awards. She is also the recipient of two Peabody Awards, three Edward R. Murrow Awards and two Alfred I. DuPont-Columbia University Awards.

Cole graduated from Vassar College, where she co-founded the campus TV station, VCTV. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband, Christian Martin, and their two children.

Jenny KleinJenny Klein

Executive Producer, “The Thing About Pam”

Jenny Klein is executive producer and showrunner for NBC and Blumhouse TV’s limited series “The Thing About Pam.”

Klein is currently in a first-look deal with Blumhouse Television and was previously under an overall deal at Amazon Studios, serving as co-executive producer on the upcoming limited series “Daisy Jones & the Six.” Her past work includes Marvel’s “Jessica Jones” and “The Witcher” for Netflix, for which she co-wrote the #1 Billboard rock single “Toss a Coin to Your Witcher.”

Klein is from Skokie, Ill.

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

Back to the Primetime Articles and Interviews Page

The cast of "The Thing About Pam" on NBC
THE THING ABOUT PAM — “Red Carpet Event” — Pictured: (l-r) Judy Greer, Glenn Fleshler, Suanne Spoke, Renee Zellweger, Josh Duhamel, Gideon Adlon, Sean Bridgers, Mac Brandt at the Maybourne Beverly Hills, February 28, 2022 — (Photo by: Todd Williamson/NBC)

Interviews with “American Song Contest” contestants 3/28/22

TV Interview!

American Song Contest - Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, Round 2

Interview with contestants from “American Song Contest” Round 2 on NBC by Krista 3/28/22

This was a lot of fun. I enjoy music competition series, such as my favorite, “American Idol,” so it was great to interview the contestants on the virtual red carpet right after the second qualifying round! Unfortunately, Cruz Rock of the U.S. Virgin Islands was not available.

If you missed their performances, watch them here.  Don’t forget to watch the next round, Monday, April 4th. Contestants include Jewel of Alaska – possibly the most famous of all of the legendary singers participating this season.

Michael Bolton moved on to the next round during this broadcast. You can see our interview with him here!

JONAH PRILL OF MONTANA

 

Jonah Prill was a very personable, friendly guy. I enjoyed listening to him answer the questions and talk about his song. His song Fire It Up was a great song and the feel of the song accomplished everything he wanted it to accomplish. His country music influences are Marty Robbins meets George Strait. He grew up on the old country and he is proud to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather Dean Evans.

MACY GRAY AND MAINO

 

Macy Gray is no stranger to the music scene. She has been an iconic singer/songwriter since 1999 with the release of her triple platinum album “On How Life Is.” She has been able to stay fresh and current with her abilities to write songs that relate to people today. She seems like she really enjoys the music scene and getting out there everyday and learning something from what she does and putting it to use in the next performance.

ENISA OF NEW YORK

 

Enisa from New York is full of energy and just a ball of fire. She wrote the song Greenlight and when it was presented to her to be on this show, she said she had the perfect song for this contest. She had the full performance with the dancing,music, and even the outline of her body with her mic up representing the statue of Liberty. She is a very friendly, outgoing person to talk to.

KING KYOTE OF MAINE

 

King Kyote is a recording artist from Maine who has toured extensively around the Northeast as well as around the country. He is inspired by all types of music especially the Rolling Stones and Muddy Water. He enjoys getting to share his talent with the fans around the world.

JOCELYN OF NEBRASKA

 

Jocelyn from Nebraska is a breath of fresh air. She enjoys writing songs that have positive messages and motivate and inspire. She is inspired by many artists such as Martina McBride, Ed Sheeran, and Shawn Mendez. She partners with Boys Town and Hope Squad which are suicide prevention organizations. She believes in these organizations and wants to spread the message of positivity in her music.

COURTSHIP. OF OREGON

 

Courtship. is from Oregon. Courtship is made up of a friendship between Micah Gordon and Eli Hersch who met at a gig. Their song “Million Dollar Smoothie” is fun and has lots of energy. They were happy to go first because then they could have their performance over and then relax and listen to the other competitors. Their album is due out in 2022.

BRODERICK JONES OF KANSAS

 

Broderick James is a singer/songwriter from Kansas. He wants to become the biggest artist ever to come from Kansas. He was very nice and well mannered showing an interest in the person asking the question. He put together a whole performance, with music, dancers, and the whole works. He seems very humble and a nice guy all the way around.

JORDAN SMITH OF KENTUCKY

 

Jordan Smith is a singer/songwriter from Kentucky and he is also no stranger to the music scene. He won the 9th season of The Voice. Since his win on The Voice he has released 4 albums and toured around the world. He is a very talented guy and seems to be a very friendly, humble guy as well. His song Sparrow is inspired by what we have went through these last two years. He wrote it to inspire others and it was also inspired by scripture where it talks about God feeding the sparrows and taking care of them and how much more he will take care of us. His faith inspires his songwriting and he hopes it can help inspire others.

CHLOE FREDERICKS OF NORTH DAKOTA

 

Chloe Fredericks is from North Dakota and is a singer/songwriter who was inspired by country artists such as Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline. She was raised singing with her dad and enjoyed singing songs such as gospel hymns and a lot of Johnny Cash. She has been working on this song since 2020 and she seems like a sweet young lady.

ALMIRA ZAKY OF VIRGINIA

 

Almira Zaky is from Virginia. Her career as a vocalist began when she was a young age and performed at numerous venues and festivals. She is inspired by artists such as Jojo, and Ariana Grande. She is also very proud of her Indonesian heritage. She hopes to empower young women all around the world with her music and her message.

We were able to interview Cruz Rock, but the recording didn’t come out.  He is from the Virgin Islands and is a Latin Caribbean singer, songwriter and producer. He infuses his ethnic heritage into his musical style and his music infuses several different styles including Caribbean, American and Latin.

MORE INFO:

American Song Contest

Mondays on NBC (8-10 p.m. ET); Series Premiere: March 21

WEBSITE

America’s biggest live entertainment event has arrived! Based on the worldwide phenomenon “Eurovision Song Contest,” organized for 65 years by the European Broadcasting Union and watched by 200 million viewers annually, this amazing musical spectacular combines the competitive spirit of rooting for your favorite sports team with the joy of watching a beloved singing performance.

In the U.S. version of the international megahit, “American Song Contest” will feature live original musical performances, representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital, competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. The 56 artists span a wide range of performers – from undiscovered talent, up-and-coming new artists, and rising stars to established and legendary icons. An incredible solo artist, duo, group or band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America.

Hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, the eight-week live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

“American Song Contest” is executive produced by Propagate’s Ben Silverman and Howard T. Owens, alongside Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson and Gregory Lipstone as well as American Song Contest, Inc.’s Anders Lenhoff, Christer Björkman, Peter Settman and Ola Melzig. Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson also serve as executive producers.

The series is produced by Propagate in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, and American Song Contest, Inc.

Hashtag: #AmericanSongContest

Jonah PrillMontana: Jonah Prill

State: Montana
Singer’s name: Jonah Prill
Hometown: Billings, MT
Resident: Billings, MT

Over a million people across the country and around the world were initially roped in by Jonah Prill’s cowboy charm and simple way of life with his horses, cowboy charm and Montana lifestyle on TikTok. With his account, Jonah gained a loyal following of over a million people by 2020 to see his journey to country music stardom. From rocking school assemblies in 3rd grade, singing in choirs through europe by highschool, and joining every band in college. It wasn’t long before Prill knew he wanted to release his own music and become a household name in country music. This Casanova’s ability to infuse his country music heritage and down-home upbringing into the lyrics and melodies of his music is what might make him one of the genre’s most intriguing new artists. The grandson of country artist Dean Evans, Prill seems poised to lead a new generation into a new chapter, a chapter filled with pages of an authentic life lived by a simple man from Billings, Montana.

Macy Gray and MainoOhio: Macy Gray

State: Ohio
Singer’s name: Macy Gray
Hometown: Canton, Ohio
Resident: Los Angeles, CA

Macy Gray, the renowned artist, actor and activist from Canton, Ohio, is no stranger to saying what needs to be said and acting on her words. The musical bodies of work she has produced throughout her career are a testament to her exquisite vision and unyielding devotion to her craft. Her sleek, sultry and mature take on R&B draws from decades worth of history. Yet, her ability to still sound forward-thinking and fresh is what reaffirms and reasserts her as a signature rarity in music. Since Macy broke into the music scene in 1999 with the release of her debut triple-platinum album, “On How Life Is,” she has become a powerhouse of R&B and soul, amassed a devoted global fan base and sold more than 25 million total albums globally. A five-time Grammy Award nominee, Gray won for Best Pop Vocal Performance in 2000 for her iconic song “I Try” and has received two BRIT Awards. Macy’s latest album, “The Reset,” will be released later year. The album is primed to create further discussion about what is happening in today’s world and will help redefine what pop music should be while still providing music lovers with good times and a great message. The daughter of a math teacher and a steel factory worker, Gray grew up in a house next to the local farm – a place still near and dear to her heart where she received the encouragement to become the star she is today.

ENISANew York: ENISA

State: New York
Singer’s name: ENISA
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Resident: Brooklyn, NY

New York local ENISA has spent her whole life preparing for this journey as a first-generation American born to Albanian parents. Following her graduation from Brooklyn’s esteemed Edward R. Murrow High School, she attended Brooklyn College and continued to develop her unique musical vision. A series of distinctive cover versions exploded across social media, earning her millions of views and critical acclaim from the likes of Complex, XXL, ThisSongIsSick and more. ENISA continued to hone her diverse musical approach, infusing contemporary soul pop with Middle Eastern flourishes inspired by her own Muslim heritage. Track releases like Scridge and Genda’s viral smash “Karma (Remix)” and such solo singles as “Burn This Bridge” and “Wait for Love” showcased a spectacular knack for raw soul and endless attitude, earning her close to 16 million views and more than 3 million global streams.

King KyoteMaine: King Kyote

State: Maine
Singer’s name: King Kyote
Hometown: York, ME
Resident:  Portland, ME

King Kyote is a recording artist who has toured extensively in the Northeast as well as around the country. Harken to a night of whiskey drinking in a cabin among the Maine pines, King echoes the yells of rock ‘n’ roll’s forefathers while having a deeply rooted harmony with roots rock, singer-songwriter and folk genres. He has played at iconic venues throughout Maine and local festivals, as well as shows with many local popular acts such as Ghosts of Paul Revere, Rustic Overtones and The Mallet Brothers Band.

JocelynNebraska: Jocelyn

State: Nebraska
Singer’s name: Jocelyn
Hometown: Omaha, NE
Resident: Omaha, NE

Nebraska native Jocelyn combines her observant outlook on life, love and music to write positive songs that both motivate and inspire. She has toured with Darius Rucker, Hootie and the Blowfish and Barenaked Ladies. Jocelyn also had the great privilege to partner with Boys Town National Hotline, a Nebraska nonprofit that is dedicated to providing a safe home for children of all races and religions, and Hope Squad on the Kindness Tour, bringing her positive music and message along with suicide prevention resources to schools across the country. She was featured on “Celebrity Undercover Boss” with Rucker and “Showtime at the Apollo” with Steve Harvey. Jocelyn wants to represent Nebraska to spread the message of Boys Town as well as her love for the state.

courtship.Oregon: courtship.

State: Oregon
Band Name: courtship.
Hometown: Portland, OR
Resident: Los Angeles, CA

The best things in life usually happen by accident and the genesis of courtship. is no exception. Micah Gordon and Eli Hirsch were both session musicians in Los Angeles who met at a gig. During their downtime on the first day, they instantly realized they had something special. Micah is a classically trained jazz pianist and was influenced by Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Miles Davis. Eli grew up with the likes of Blink-182, Passion Pit and Weezer and together they’re the Larry David of indie pop. The boys spent the last few years on the road touring with artists such as Dayglow, Passion Pit, the Hunna, Weezer, the Wombats, Magic City Hippies and Night Riots all while garnering millions of streams. The duo’s sophomore album is set to release in 2022 and is a testament to everything that courtship. is – authentic, witty and feel-good. To courtship., Oregon is a magical place where they first started playing in bands and exploring music.

Broderick JonesKansas: Broderick Jones

State: Kansas
Singer’s name: Broderick Jones
Hometown: Little Rock, AR
Resident: Olathe, KS

Broderick Jones is a singer/songwriter known for his smooth vocals and gravitating stage performances. Broderick raked up over 35 million streams alone with no backing, helping him put a spotlight on the city and move closer towards his dream of becoming the biggest artist ever from Kansas. Broderick is thrilled to represent his state and show America that if he can make it from here, than anyone can.

Jordan SmithKentucky: Jordan Smith

State: Kentucky
Singer’s name: Jordan Smith
Hometown: Harlan, KY
Resident: Corbin, KY

Jordan Smith is a singer/songwriter best known for winning season nine of NBC’s hit reality television series “The Voice.” The Kentucky native holds the record as the highest-selling artist in “The Voice” history, dethroning Adele’s “Hello” at #1 on the iTunes charts three times during his run on the show and becoming the first artist ever to replace himself at #1 on the Christian Billboard chart. Jordan has since released four albums and toured extensively around the world, sharing the stage with artists such as Patti LaBelle, Jordin Sparks and Lionel Richie. He also wrote the song “Ashes,” performed by Celine Dion for the movie “Deadpool 2.” Being a Kentuckian is something Jordan has always been proud of and representing the state is an honor.

Chloe FredericksNorth Dakota: Chloe Fredericks

State: North Dakota
Singer’s name: Chloe Fredericks
Hometown: Halliday, ND
Resident: Halliday, ND

Chloe Fredericks grew up listening to some of country music’s great artists, including Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and Emmylou Harris, and often receives comparisons to powerhouse singer-songwriters Adele and Amy Winehouse. Her mom would always call Chloe her “little singing birdy” and some of Chloe’s fondest memories are singing alongside her dad. She was raised on a ranch in North Dakota and learned the cowboy way of living – if you get bucked off of a horse, you get right back on. It’s helped carry Chloe through the more trying times in the ever-changing music business.

Almira ZakyVirginia: Almira Zaky

State: Virginia
Singer’s name: Almira Zaky
Hometown: Herndon, VA
Resident: Herndon, VA

Almira Zaky’s journey as a vocalist began at a young age when she would perform for thousands all around the Washington, D.C., area at several venues including World Bank, the Embassy of Indonesia, University of District of Columbia, University of Maryland, and events such as the annual Cherry Blossom Festival and the Baltimore Wooden Boat Festival. Almira is inspired by artists such as Kehlani, Jhene Aiko, Jojo and Ariana Grande and attributes her rhythmic R&B/pop influence to ’90s-’00s music. Her vibrant presence, outspoken lyrical skill, soulful tone and ability to relate to audiences all over the world has inspired others to become the boss of their own life. Almira, who is Muslim and proud of her Indonesian heritage, is very honored to represent her home state of Virginia, as it is the home to so many hip-hop/R&B musical legends, including Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, Chad Hugo and Missy Elliot.

Interview with last week’s contestants and with Kelly Clarkson

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Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson of "American Song Contest" on NBC

Interview with Lisa Berry

TV Interview!

Lisa Berry, Rainbow Sun Francks, Henderson Wade and Humberly González of "Fallen Angels Murder Club" movies on Lifetime.

Interview with Lisa Berry, Rainbow Sun Francks, Henderson Wade and Humberly González of “Fallen Angels Murder Club” movies on Lifetime by Suzanne 3/22/22

It was great to have a Zoom press call with these actors. “Fallen Angels Murder Club: Friends to Die For” airs Saturday, 4/2 and “Fallen Angels Murder Club: Heroes and Felons” airs next Saturday, 4/9.  The movies star singer/actress Toni Braxton, who was not in attendance.  Eddie Cibrian also stars in the first movie (SPOILER: I believe he’s the murder victim). I really wanted to ask Rainbow a question, but unfortunately, he arrived late and had to leave early. It was kind of amusing because when the conference started, he was on the subway, which we could see from his video.  Then he was in his apartment for awhile, and then he was gone again!  The main reason I wanted to speak with him because he was so great in “Stargate: Atlantis.” However, I was even happier to speak with Lisa Berry, who is the second lead in the series, and the others. She starred as Billie in “Supernatural,” so it was really great to interview her. I hope you can enjoy both movies, which are murder mysteries. More details about them below.

Here’s our interview with Lisa! We’ll have more videos soon as well as the transcript…

MORE INFO:

Lifetime’s Site for the movies

"Fallen Angels Murder Club" posterAbout Fallen Angels Murder Club: Friends to Die For

Premieres Saturday, April 2 at 8/7 C

In the first installment, the members of the Fallen Angels Murder Club must have two things in common – a love for books and have a criminal record. Hollis Morgan (Braxton) meets both requirements. Left holding the bag in an insurance fraud scheme concocted by her ex-husband, Hollis served her time and now hopes the court will pardon her conviction so she can fulfill her dream of becoming a lawyer. But when a member of her book club is murdered in a scene straight out of the previous night’s novel, Hollis becomes the subject of police scrutiny. Refusing to get stuck "Fallen Angels Murder Club" castwith another bad rap, Hollis sets out to investigate her fellow club members and after a second book-inspired murder, she races to identify the killer before she becomes the next victim. Also stars Eddie Cibrian (Northern Lights, CSI Miami).

 

 

 

 

Trailer:

About Fallen Angels Murder Club: Heroes and Felons

Premieres Saturday, April 9 at 8/7 C

In the second movie, the members of the Fallen Angels Murder Club must band together again as they search for answers surrounding the death of one of their own. Hollis finds herself at the center of the investigation when a journalist reporting on the murder also winds up dead. As bodies begin to stack up, and Hollis connects "Fallen Angels Murder Club" castthe dots, she must solve the murders before its too late. Kelly Hu also stars. (List of a Lifetime, Scorpion King).

Additional ‘angels’ for the anthology include Lisa Berry (Working Moms, Supernatural) as “Abby Caldwell,” Yanic Truesdale (Gilmore Girls) as “Gene Donovan,” Humberly González (Ginny & Georgia) as “Rena Gabriel,” Rainbow Sun Francks (Umbrella Academy) as “Miller Thornton” and Raoul Bhaneja (Blind Spot, Clarice, The Lost Symbol) as “Rory Sharma.”

Henderson Wade (Dear White People, Riverdale), Kaitlyn Leeb (Spinning Out), Rob Stewart (Killjoys, Suits, Nikita), Keith D. Robinson (Dreamgirls, Saints & Sinners) and Shawn Ahmed also star. The Fallen Angels Murder Club films are produced for Lifetime by Brain Power Studio and executive produced by Beth Stevenson, Nancy Yeaman, Toni Braxton and Rhonda Baraka. The films fall in line with Lifetime.

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Lisa Berry, Rainbow Sun Francks, Henderson Wade and Humberly González of "Fallen Angels Murder Club" movies on Lifetime.

Interview with Chi McBride

TV Interview!

"How We Roll" cast on CBS

Interview with actors from “How We Roll” on CBS by Suzanne 3/23/22

This was a nice CBS press day – my first with them. I was very happy to be included, even though I was only able to ask one question.

This seems like a fun sitcom, so I’ll definitely be checking it out when it airs tomorrow.

CBS SPRING 2022 VIRTUAL PRESS DAY
“How We Roll” with actors Pete Holmes, Katie Lowes, Chi McBride, Julie White and Mark Gross, Executive Producer
Virtual via Zoom
March 23, 2022
© 2022 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.
“How We Roll” premieres Thursday, March 31st, at 9:30 p.m. Eastern on CBS, and streaming on Paramount Plus.

The show is based on the life of real-life Midwestern dad, Tom Smallwood, who decided to pursue his dream of becoming a pro bowler after he was laid off from his job

There was a video from Brian d’Arcy James, Executive Producer, who couldn’t be there. He told us about how the show came about. He heard about Smallwood because they’re both from Saginaw, MN. He fell in love with the idea of this guy deciding to follow his dream, regardless of the odds against him, in order to take care of his family. They loved and supported him, and so did his whole community. James thought this would make a great story. It’s certainly an interesting idea. I don’t think there’s every been a sitcom about bowling before. There was the comedy-drama, “Ed,” about a lawyer who returns to his hometown and buys a bowling alley…he practiced law out of it. There have been many sitcoms about working class people who go bowling regularly, such as “Laverne and Shirley” and “Roseanne.” There’s never been one that’s mostly about bowling, let alone one that is about a professional bowler. I just hope it’s funny because that’s my main criteria for a comedy. It has to make me laugh, often, or I won’t keep watching it. We’ll see!

I was really happy to be able to ask Chi McBride a question because he’s been in so many great shows I’ve watched and loved, such as “Boston Public,” “Human Target,” “House” and many more. I asked him, “You’ve done a lot of dramas over the past — I don’t know, how long it’s been…. A couple of decades. But you got your start in sitcoms. So, what was it that attracted you to this project?”

He gave me an unexpectedly heartfelt answer. It was really nice. He confided that not only did he “love the story,” but he could relate to it. He said, “30 years ago, I left my successful career at the phone company when I was making $300 a week, against the advice of my broker.” He drove from Atlanta to California to be in show business. He mentioned that he had a lot of confidence. He probably had some money to keep him afloat for awhile, too, is my guess, since he decided he wouldn’t be a waiter or anything like that. He credits that confidence with getting into the business, which he’s worked in for 30 years. He can identify with the situation because everyone thought he was crazy, too, for taking this chance.

He talked about his character, Archie, who is a mentor to the main character, Tom (played by Pete Holmes). He told us that Archie has believed in Tom since he was a child. He really loves characters like Archie and felt that this was “a wonderful opportunity.” Also, he added that he knew all the other people in the cast and their work. He praised them for being both talented and “lovely people at the same time.” He shared that it’s “been a real gas, to tell you the truth.” Going back to my question about having done mostly drama for a long time, he did admit that he hadn’t been “in front of three camera format in 25 years” (that’s how they shoot sitcoms), so he found it “daunting” at first. He gave credit to director Mark Cendrowski for helping him figure it out and get over that bump road. He joked, “it was like riding a bike. Like, when you ride a bike into a tree at first.” He was very funny throughout his answer, and we all laughed a lot. The whole panel was pretty funny. Anyway, he concluded that he’s “just glad to be here” and that the basic story inspired him.

Producer Mark Gross talked about his part in bringing the show to life. He wanted to write something with hope in it. James told him about the Tom Smallwood story. He praised Tom’s beautiful writing about Tom and his story. It really inspired him. He spoke in detail about how he worked on it feverishly (sometimes literally, when he had COVID). He can’t believe that they got such an “incredible, amazing cast.” He thinks Tom’s story is filled with miracles.

Pete Holmes was asked to compare his other show, “Crashing,” based on his early days of trying to make it as a comedian, to this one, since they’re both about someone giving up steady work to pursue their dreams.

Pete answered that he never though of that comparison before. He confided that his parents didn’t seem too concerned about his becoming a comedian. He added, “I don’t know if that’s because they believed in me, or they just weren’t paying attention.” Everyone laughed, so he riffed on that idea for a minute. It was hilarious. Then he told us, more seriously, that his parents were always very supportive of him, and other people he knew ere, too. He believes that you should get rid of the “naysayers” in your life if you want to be successful. He also mentioned that he always saw some other comedians that were unsuccessful because they were always comparing themselves or their careers to other comedians, which he referred to as “comedy cancer.” He told us that Mark Gross and one of the other writers (Tommy Johnagin) are both great stand-up performers and writers. He talked about how he and his wife read the script when he got it, praying that it was good. They enjoyed it and laughed, and appreciated that the wife was not just the usual TV “nagging wife.” It reminds him of the series “Ted Lasso,” in the sense that the wife believes more in Tom than he does. He also thought that the other characters were not stereotypes, either. Back to the question, he said that he’s very grateful that he didn’t have people doubting him when he was starting out. He “was one of the first people to go to college” in his family, so they said that he could do whatever he wanted after that.

Another reporter asked a question, but unfortunately, the actors didn’t answer it seriously. It was a very funny time for all of us, though. He/she asked what the actors found it easiest and most difficult as far as connecting to their character. Instead, Pete joked about the other new CBS show “Beyond the Edge,” saying that “I thought the monkeys that were encroaching on our camp were really difficult.” From then on, it only got funnier. I can only hope that the real show is half as funny as these guys were in this panel.

MORE INFO:

CBS ANNOUNCES NEW COMEDY “HOW WE ROLL” TO PREMIERE THURSDAY, MARCH 31 AT 9:30 PM

How We Roll,” Formerly Titled “Smallwood,” Stars Pete Holmes, Katie Lowes,

Chi McBride, Julie White and Mason Wells, and Is Based on the Life of

Professional Bowler Tom Smallwood

CBS will premiere the new comedy HOW WE ROLL (formerly titled “Smallwood”) on Thursday, March 31 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, after B POSITIVE completes its second season order. The series will also be available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+*. Based on the life story of professional bowler Tom Smallwood, the series stars Pete Holmes as Tom, a stoic Midwest husband and dad who gets laid off from a car assembly line and makes the extraordinary decision to provide for his family by following his dream of becoming a professional bowler.

As a skilled player, Tom knows that in bowling you get two chances: no matter what you do with the first ball, you get another one to make it right – the ultimate second chance. Keeping that in mind, he begins his new career with the loving “OK” from his wife, Jen (Katie Lowes); the unfaltering support of Archie (Chi McBride), his mentor and the proud owner of Archie’s Lanes: Home of the Curly Fry; the cautious backing of his protective mom, Helen (Julie White); and the encouragement of his son, Sam (Mason Wells). It remains to be seen if Tom will strike it big on the pro bowler circuit, but right now, the pins are set, he’s taking his second shot, and it’s 300 or bust.

HOW WE ROLL is produced by CBS Studios. Mark Gross, David Hollander and Brian d’Arcy James are the executive producers. Mark Cendrowski directed the pilot.

*Paramount+ Premium subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service as well as on demand. Essential-tier subscribers will have access to on-demand the day after the episode airs.

Official CBS website: https://www.cbs.com/shows/how-we-roll/

BIOS

Pete Holesm on "How We Roll" on CBSPete Holmes (Tom on HOW WE ROLL)

Pete Holmes is a nationally touring standup comedian, actor, “Christ-leaning spiritual seeker,” improviser, writer, cartoonist, and late-night host. Most recently, “Comedy Sex God,” Pete’s first book, was published May 14, 2019 by Harper Wave. Part autobiography, part philosophical inquiry, and part spiritual quest, “Comedy Sex God” is a hilarious, profound, and enlightening romp around his fertile mind.

In March 2019, Pete’s semi-autobiographical HBO comedy series, “Crashing,” that he created, starred in and executive-produced alongside Judd Apatow, celebrated its third and final season. “Crashing” was critically acclaimed and followed a stand-up comic (Holmes) who reevaluates his life and enters the New York comedy scene after discovering his wife’s infidelity. Currently, Pete is the host of the wildly popular podcast, “You Made It Weird,” which is a comedic exploration of the meaning of life with guests ranging from Deepak Chopra and Elizabeth Gilbert, to Seth Rogen and Garry Shandling. With more than 660 episodes, “You Made It Weird” has been downloaded over six million times and is recognized annually as a top podcast.

Since 2011, Pete has starred in CollegeHumor’s hilarious web series, “Badman.” “Badman” parodies the Christopher Nolan Batman films, with Pete playing the Caped Crusader as oblivious and incompetent, much to the annoyance of friends and foes alike. Pete also provided the voice for the talking baby in the award-winning E*TRADE ad-campaign.

An accomplished standup, with three hour-long television specials (HBO’s “Pete Holmes: Dirty Clean,” HBO’s “Pete Holmes: Faces and Sounds,” and Comedy Central’s “Pete Holmes: Nice Try, The Devil!”) and innumerous late-night appearances, Pete also hosted his own late-night TBS talk show, “The Pete Holmes Show,” that aired for two seasons. Pete has written for several television series, including “The Simpsons” and “Outsourced,” and many of his cartoons have been published in “The New Yorker,” which he thinks is pretty neat.

Currently, Holmes lives in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter. His birthday is March 30. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter @peteholmes.

Chi McBride as "Archie" from the CBS series HOW WE ROLL, premiering Thursday, March 31 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on demand on the CBS app and Paramount+. Photo: Cliff Lipson/CBS ©2021 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.Chi McBride (Archie in HOW WE ROLL)

A prolific actor in both television and film, Chi McBride most recently starred in the hit series “Hawaii Five-0” as Captain Lou Grover, on the Network.

McBride’s extensive feature credits include “I, Robot,” “The Terminal,” “Draft Day” with Kevin Costner and Jennifer Garner, “Annapolis,” “The Kid” with Bruce Willis, “Gone in Sixty Seconds” with Nick Cage, “The Distinguished Gentleman” with Eddie Murphy, and the Oscar-nominated “What’s Love Got to Do With It.”

He is also known for his principal roles in Bryan Fuller’s “Pushing Daisies” and David E. Kelley’s “Boston Public.” McBride has also lent his voice to the Marvel world playing the iconic ‘Nick Fury’ in multiple animated series, including “Avengers Assemble.”

McBride is from Chicago and currently resides in Los Angeles. His birthday is Sept. 23.

Katie Lowes as "Jen" from the CBS series HOW WE ROLL, premiering Thursday, March 31 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on demand on the CBS app and Paramount+. Photo: Cliff Lipson/CBS ©2021 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.Katie Lowes (Jen on HOW WE ROLL)

Katie Lowes is a force on both stage and screen. She is perhaps best known for starring as ‘Quinn Perkins’ for the entire seven seasons of the hit series “Scandal.” Lowes starred opposite a stellar cast including Kerry Washington and Tony Goldwyn in the fan favorite series created by Shonda Rhimes.

Recently, Lowes starred in the original television movie CHRISTMAS TAKES FLIGHT, on the Network. Currently, she stars in Shonda Rhimes’s Netflix series “Inventing Anna,” alongside Anna Chlumsky, Julia Garner and Laverne Cox.

Lowes is in the fourth season of her popular parenting podcast, “Katie’s Crib,” which is produced by Shondaland in partnership with iHeartRadio. “Katie’s Crib,” which launched in Spring 2018, is a weekly podcast covering the unexpected joys, pains, foibles, and hilarity of new motherhood. Each episode highlights a specific parenting issue from a variety of different points of view. Lowes conducts frank, intimate conversation with fellow moms (such as A-List actresses Kristen Bell, America Ferrera, and more) about the ups and downs of being a new parent.

In summer 2021, Lowes lent her voice to Netflix’s animated film “Vivo.” The film also featured voices from Lin-Manuel Miranda, Zoe Saldana, Gloria Estefan, Nicole Byer and more, with Miranda writing several songs for the movie.

In fall 2018, Lowes made her Broadway debut, starring in the Tony-nominated musical “Waitress,” with Katharine McPhee. Lowes played the role of ‘Dawn’ opposite her real-life husband, actor Adam Shapiro.

Lowes is no stranger to the big or small screen. Over the years she has appeared in big budget films, such as Disney’s “Ralph Breaks the Internet” and Dreamworks’ “Transformers 2,” Bad Robot’s “Super 8” directed by JJ Abrams and was the voice of Abigail in the 2015 Academy Award-winning animated feature film “Big Hero 6.” In addition, she voiced an animated character in the 2015 Academy Award-winning animated short film, “Feast,” as well as the Oscar-nominated Disney film “Wreck It Ralph.” Lowes was the inspiration behind the motion and movement work for Idina Menzel’s character, Elsa, in the movie “Frozen.”

Additionally, she has appeared in several independent films, including “Dinner for Four,” “The Job,” “Callers” and “Bear” and “Café.” She has been a guest star on hit series, such as “The Closer,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice,” “Leverage,” “Castle,” “The Sopranos,” “NCIS,” on the Network, and was a series regular on “Easy Money,” created by producers of “The Sopranos.”

Lowes is regularly seen guest co-hosting “Live with Kelly and Ryan” alongside Ryan Seacrest.

Born in Queens, New York, Lowes is a graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts. Lowes is the co-artistic director of IAMA Theatre Company, which was named one of the top 20 regional theatres in the country. IAMA is in the midst of its 13th season in Los Angeles.

Currently, Lowes lives in Los Angeles with her husband. Her birthday is Sept. 22. Follow her on Twitter @KatieQLowes and on Instagram @ktqlowes.

Julie White as "Helen" from the CBS series HOW WE ROLL, premiering Thursday, March 31 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on demand on the CBS app and Paramount+. Photo: Cliff Lipson/CBS ©2021 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Julie White (Helen on HOW WE ROLL)

 Julie White is a Tony Award winner for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play for her role in “The Little Dog Laughed,” and starred in Joe Mantello’s 2015 production of Lisa D’Amour’s play “Airline Highway,” for which she was nominated for Tony, Drama Desk and Drama League awards.

Tony-nominated for her performance in the 2019 Taylor Mac-created “Gary: A Sequel to Titus Andronicus” on Broadway opposite Nathan Lane, White earlier starred on Broadway in Lucas Hnath’s “A Doll’s House 2” with Stephen Henderson and Jane Houdyshell, and opposite Matthew Broderick and Annaleigh Ashford in the revival of A.R. Gurney’s “Sylvia” for director Dan Sullivan.

White’s additional Broadway credits include “Vanya, Sonia, Masha and Spike,” “The Heidi Chronicles,” and Off-Broadway credits “The Understudy” and “Fiction” for The Roundabout, “Twelfth Night” at The Delacorte for The Public Theatre and “Bad Dates” for Playwrights Horizons, to name some favorites. She won an Obie Award, The Elliot Norton Award, the Ovation Award and been nominated multiple times for Outer Critics Circle, Drama Desk, and Drama League Awards.

On television, White recurred as Antoinette, “Nurse Jackie”s AA sponsor; opposite John Goodman in the Garry Trudeau/Amazon series “Alpha House”; and spent a season on “Go On” opposite Matthew Perry, for which she won the Gracie Award. Other memorable TV roles are Mitzi Dalton Huntley in Alan Ball’s “Six Feet Under,” Nadine Swoboda on “Grace Under Fire,” Dr. Anne Morella on “Law & Order: SVU” and comedy appearances on cult favorites “You’re the Worst” and “Man Seeking Woman.”

Coming up, in addition to HOW WE ROLL, White will appear in the new Apple + series “Roar” among an all-star cast, including Nicole Kidman and Cynthia Erivo, as well as the Apple+ miniseries “WeCrashed” opposite Anne Hathaway. Other television credits include White starring opposite Kiefer Sutherland and Anthony Edwards on the final season of “Designated Survivor” and appearing in the critically acclaimed limited series “Mrs. America,” with Cate Blanchett and Sarah Paulson.

On the big screen, White appeared in “Lincoln” for Steven Spielberg opposite Daniel Day Lewis and Sally Field, in addition to being a staple on the indie scene in such festival films as “Breaking Upwards,” “Hello I Must Be Going,” “Morning,” “My Idiot Brother” and “Life Partners.” Additional studio features include the massively successful “Transformers” franchise, “Michael Clayton” opposite George Clooney, “The Astronaut Farmer” with Billy Bob Thornton, and the animated film “Monsters and Aliens”.

White resides in Northern Westchester, NY, when not filming. Her birthday is June 4. Follow her on Instagram @missjuliewhite.

Mark Gross, producer/writer for "How We Roll" on CBS.

Mark Gross is a producer and writer, known for Mike & Molly (2010), Man with a Plan (2016) and Gary Unmarried (2008).

 

 

 

 

 

PETE HOLMES STARS IN THE NEW COMEDY INSPIRED BY THE LIFE OF PROFESSIONAL BOWLER TOM SMALLWOOD, WHO MAKES THE EXTRAORDINARY DECISION TO FOLLOW HIS DREAM OF BECOMING A PROFESSIONAL BOWLER, ON THE SERIES PREMIERE OF “HOW WE ROLL,” THURSDAY, MARCH 31

Katie Lowes, Chi McBride, Julie White and Mason Wells Also Star

“Pilot” – Pete Holmes stars in a new comedy inspired by the life of professional bowler Tom Smallwood, who gets laid off from his factory job and makes the extraordinary decision to follow his dream of becoming a professional bowler, on the series premiere of the CBS Original series HOW WE ROLL, Thursday, March 31 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+*. Katie Lowes, Chi McBride, Julie White and Mason Wells also star.

As a skilled player, Tom (Holmes) knows that in bowling you get two chances; no matter what you do with the first ball, you get another one to make it right – the ultimate second chance. Keeping that in mind, Tom begins his new career with the loving okay from his wife, Jen (Lowes); the unfaltering support of Archie (McBride), his mentor and the proud owner of Archie’s Lanes: Home of the Curly Fry; the cautious backing of his protective mom, Helen (White); and the encouragement of his son, Sam (Wells). It remains to be seen if Tom will strike it big on the Pro Bowler circuit, but right now, the pins are set, he’s taking his second shot and it’s 300 or bust!

REGULAR CAST:

Pete Holmes (Tom)
Katie Lowes (Jen)
Chi McBride (Archie)
Julie White (Helen)
Mason Wells (Sam)

RECURRING CAST:

Tahj Mowry (Lewell)
Amanda Perez (Tia)
Greg Romero Wilson (William)
Matt McCarthy (Carl)
Judy Kain (Mimi)

WRITTEN BY: Mark Gross

DIRECTED BY: Mark Cendrowski

TOM MUST CHOOSE BETWEEN LOYALTY TO ARCHIE, HIS MENTOR AND COACH, AND MONEY WHEN HE’S OFFERED A NEW SPONSORSHIP DEAL, BUT HE CAN ONLY FEATURE ONE LOGO ON HIS BOWLING SHIRT, ON “HOW WE ROLL,” THURSDAY, APRIL 7

“The Sponsor” – Tom must choose between loyalty to his mentor, Archie, and money when his first TV interview leads to a new sponsorship deal, but he can only feature one logo on his bowling shirt: Archie Lanes, Home of the Curly Fry, or Powell Mortuary. Also, Jen’s boss stifles her creativity at the salon, on the CBS Original series HOW WE ROLL, Thursday, April 7 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+*.

REGULAR CAST:

Pete Holmes (Tom)
Katie Lowes (Jen)
Chi McBride (Archie)
Julie White (Helen)
Mason Wells (Sam)

RECURRING CAST:

Tahj Mowry (Lewell)
Amanda Perez (Tia)
Greg Romero Wilson (William)
Matt McCarthy (Carl)
Judy Kain (Mimi)

GUEST CAST:

McKale Jude Bingham (Lee)
Kerrice Ayanna Brooks (Hannah)
Brittany Baker (TV Reporter)
Sarah Lilly (Sandy)
French Stewart (Jacob Powell)

WRITTEN BY: Michael Glouberman

DIRECTED BY: Betsy Thomas

GENRE: Comedy

TOM CONSIDERS SELLING HIS PRIZED BASEBALL CARD COLLECTION IN ORDER TO BRING IN SOME MUCH-NEEDED CASH TO TREAT JEN, WHO’S BEEN WORKING EXTRA HOURS, ON “HOW WE ROLL,” THURSDAY, APRIL 14

“The Hustle” – Looking for ways to make extra cash, Tom considers selling his prized baseball card collection so he can treat Jen, who’s been working extra hours at the salon, on the CBS Original series HOW WE ROLL, Thursday, April 14 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+*.

REGULAR CAST:

Pete Holmes (Tom)
Katie Lowes (Jen)
Chi McBride (Archie)
Julie White (Helen)
Mason Wells (Sam)

RECURRING CAST:

Tahj Mowry (Lewell)
Amanda Perez (Tia)
Greg Romero Wilson (William)
Matt McCarthy (Carl)
Judy Kain (Mimi)

GUEST CAST:

Greg Winter (Ben)
Sean Cook (Brad)
Laura Buckles (Brenda)

WRITTEN BY: Tommy Johnagin

DIRECTED BY: Betsy Thomas

GENRE: Comedy

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

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CBS Spring Press Day graphic

 

Interview with Michael Bolton

TV Interview!

Michael Bolton at "American Song Contest" on NBC

Interview with Michael Bolton at “American Song Contest” on NBC by Suzanne 3/28/22

It was great to speak with this legend a second time. Last week, Michael Bolton competed in the first episode of “American Song Contest” on NBC. This is a show similar to “Eurovision.”  NBC had this great after-show virtual red carpet for those of us in the press. Unfortunately, between technical problems, background noise, and Michael Bolton being a very quiet speaker, we weren’t able to hear or understand him, nor could we get a good video! Fortunately, it was announced during this week’s show that Michael had been voted to continue in the next round, so NBC was able to get us this short Zoom interview with him to make up for last week. I’m so grateful and happy!

Enjoy this nice CLEAR video! We’ll have the transcript up later.

MORE INFO:

Michael Bolton at "American Song Contest" on NBCConnecticut: Michael Bolton

State: Connecticut
Singer’s name: Michael Bolton
Hometown: New Haven, CT
Resident: Westport, CT

Michael Bolton is a multiple Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter who has sold more than 65 million records globally and continues to tour the world. Bolton is strongly committed to humanitarian causes, especially through the Michael Bolton Charities. In recognition of his artistic achievements, Michael won two Grammys for Best Pop Male Vocal Performance (nominated four times), six American Music Awards, three Emmy Award nominations and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. As a songwriter, he has earned more than 24 BMI & ASCAP Awards, including Songwriter of the Year and the Hitmakers Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His coming-of-age story starts in Connecticut, where he was born and raised and most importantly where he discovered his love of singing and songwriting. He’s proud to represent the state as an artist and as someone who still loves going home to Connecticut.

About ‘American Song Contest’:

From the producers of “Eurovision Song Contest” and “The Voice,” the all-live music competition series, hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, premieres Monday, March 21 (8:00 – 10:00 pm ET/PT) and will run for eight weeks with the Grand Final on May 9.

“American Song Contest” will feature live new music performances – representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital – competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. An incredible solo artist, duo or a band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America. The live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

Back to the Primetime Articles and Interviews Page

Michael Bolton at "American Song Contest" on NBC

Interviews with “American Song Contest” contestants 3/21/22

TV Interview!

Interview with contestants the first qualifier round of “American Song Contest” on NBC by Suzanne 3/21/22

Michael Bolton on Zoom on the red carpet

Monday night was the premiere of “American Song Contest” on NBC. This is the new American version of Eurovision that we talked about last week.  A small group of us journalists watched the live show and then interviewed all 11 contestants for this first round of live qualifiers.  Honestly, I don’t watch most competition or music shows on TV. I just don’t have the time, and I’d rather watch scripted shows. I thought they did a pretty good job with it, though, and I enjoyed watching the contestants and learning about their backstories. I thought that the best song was “Loko” by Christian Pagán of Puerto Rico. The song was very catchy and his performance was great. Clearly, Heuston from Rhode Island also did very well. His song started out slowly and gravel-y-voiced… but got better, and he was aces at singing a ballad that melted everyone’s hearts. He was voted by the judges to go to the next round.

Although my main career is TV journalist and expert, I’m also a singer. I started singing in grade school and was taking voice lessons in high school and all through college.  I’ve still been singing and taking lessons for years, and I was in a band for awhile. So, I’m coming at this music contest from that perspective as well as from the TV show. I found it interesting as TV more than as music. This show is not “The Voice.” The singers here are being judged more for their songwriting and their performing than their singing…not that any of them are terrible singers. These are professional working musicians that do well in their local venues (and some nationally).

Michael Bolton singing in "American Song Contest" March 21, 2022

Mostly, I came here to see and talk to Michael Bolton. His song was not that great, to be honest. I did get to ask him a question, but unfortunately, the sound quality during that part of the interviews on the virtual red carpet was not good, and my recording below is almost unintelligible. I asked him if he wrote the song for this competition, what inspired it, and why he chose it.  He gave a nice, long answer, that I can’t make heads or tails of, which is a darn shame. I hope he makes it to the next round, and then I’ll be able to chat with him again.  His songs were big hits back in the 80’s when I was in college. I loved his biggest hit, “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You?,” which was also recorded by Laura Branigan. In fact, I have also sung that song many times in karaoke, and I always get a good reaction. His other huge hit was his version of “When a Man Loves a Woman.”

Most of the other recordings came out OK. I hope you enjoy them!

Kelly Clarkson and Snoop Dogg in "American Song Contest" 3/21/22

The show itself was fun. Snoop Dogg had a nice kind of laidback attitude to counter Kelly Clarkson’s infectious energy. Stay tuned for more contestants on the next show, Monday 3/28/22 on NBC! If you missed last week’s episode, find it on NBC.

Here are the videos, except for one that I’m missing from Christian Pagán and hope to have tomorrow.

Jake’O from Wisconsin was our first interviewee… I was having great difficulty hearing him… as you can tell by the faces I’m making. He sang a song called “Feel Your Love.” I took myself off video when I wasn’t asking a question because I didn’t want to have to worry about how I looked the whole time! This video clip is from Jamie of http://www.scifivision.com

Here’s Christian Pagán of Puerto Rico! He sang a really fun song, “Loko.” He would be my top pick. My recording didn’t come out, so this is from Jamie of http://www.scifivision.com

Here’s Michael Bolton!  He seemed pretty tired, and his speaking voice was not loud enough, on top of the other technical difficulties and background noise. He sang “Beautiful World.” My recording didn’t come out, so this is from Jamie of http://www.scifivision.com

Here’s the best transcription I could get for this, from TranscriptionPuppy.

Moderator: Hi, guys. We have Michael Bolton.

Michael: Hello.

Moderator: Chris, you’re up first; Beth, you’re on deck, and then Jamie.

Chris: Hi, Michael. How are you? Great performance tonight.

Michaeln: Thank you very much. For a timely song [inaudible] it’s getting harder. Things got harder in the real world.

Chris: It really is. I was just curious, what made you decide to be a part of this experience?

Michael: Oh. Well, songwriting is on the very top of my list of the things I love about music through the years and something that is enduring during [inaudible] function as an artist and a songwriter where I plan on continuing to be surrounded by people who love music and love to write. Things that are very wide, very [inaudible] so much really good, and then, of course, there’s Kelly, who’s spectacular, [inaudible] you got to talk to her on the line and it seems that [inaudible] so I ask my agent to find it well to physically [inaudible] whole made sense to happened then, I wrote [inaduble] of just [inaudible] someone who will work tied up [inaudible] and we wrote a song about knowing how intense [inaudible] great [inaudible] it means the world [inaudible] just make perfect sense to me, I love music [inaudible]

Chris: Thank you so much!

Jamie: Hi, Jamie Ruby here, from SciFiVision. Thank you so much for talking to us tonight. I really enjoyed your song So, obviously, you’ve been doing this for a really long time. Are there still new things to learn after doing something like this about yourself?

Michael: That kind of person who [inaudible] in every area of your life. [inaudible] like more [inaudible] for computers.

Jamie: Thank you.

Moderator: Beth, go ahead.

Beth: Thank you. It was so great seeing you, Michael. This is Beth with Hollywood Junket. I really enjoyed your performance tonight. I was wondering, are there any other contestants seeking your advice on their performances or rehearsals this week?

Michael: Everybody seems to be very [inaudible] and [inaudible] of their career. But I didn’t have [inaudible] always frequently, [inaudible] specifically when they’re inspiring [inaudible] somewhere where I can help them, kind of, avoid the dead ends and waste their time in [inaudible] themselves to [inaudible] something that [inaudible] look forward about this really great, really help [inaudible]

Beth: Thank you so much.

Moderator: Suzanne you’re up next, Justin you’re on deck.

Michael: Hi, Suzanne.

Suzanne: Hi Michael. What made you…what inspired you to write the song that you sang tonight, and what made you choose it for this contest?

Michael Bolton: Ironically, we are actually looking at completely different suggestions and this writing a song [inaudible] online [inaudible] start writing a song and [inaudible] create music [inaudible] I don’t think [inaudible] I don’t wanna [inaudible] imagine kind of threat [inaudible] somehow [inaudible] my mind [inaudible].

Suzanne: Alright, thank you.

Ryan Charles of Wyoming was next. He sang a really fun song, “”New Boot Goofin'” He was dressed like a cowboy, but he raps!

Kelsey Lamb of Arkansas was after him. I was pulling for her because I live in that state, but I don’t think her song, “Never Like This” was exciting enough to win the competition.

Next up was Keyone Starr of Mississippi, who sang “Fire.” Great song!

The next artists was UG Skywalkin of Indiana. His first name is pronounced like the letters U.G. (yoo jee) not like UGH!  He has an interesting backstory, which I asked him about.  His song was “Love in My City.”

AleXa of Oklahoma… she’s part Korean, so she does K-Pop. She put on quite a production, but her song, “Wonderland,” was not very notable.

This girl, Alisabeth Von Presley, of Iowa, sang really well, but I don’t think the song, “Wonder” was very catchy.

Heuston of Rhode Island really wowed everyone with his song, “Held on Too Long.” It was great to chat with him. My husband’s family is from Rhode Island!

Yam Haus is a really enthusiastic group of friends from Minnesota who sang “Ready to Go.” They had a lot of energy. This was our last group to interview.

I hope you enjoyed these interviews!

MORE INFO:

**MEDIA ALERT** ‘American Song Contest’ Series Premiere Virtual Zoom Room Monday, March 21, 2022

What:                  American Song Contest’ Live Series Premiere and Virtual Zoom Room

Watch the live show and have the opportunity to speak with the first 11 artists to perform.  Virtual Zoom Room to follow directly after the premiere.

NBC’s upcoming music competition series “American Song Contest” features live new music performances representing the 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital, who will compete to win the country’s vote for the best hit song.  The artists span a wide range of performers, from undiscovered talent, up-and-coming new artists, and rising stars to established and legendary icons.

Who:                   The initial 11 artists performing on the premiere.

To learn more about these artists, visit here.

  • Kelsey Lamb (Arkansas)
  • Michael Bolton (Connecticut)
  • Alisabeth Von Presley (Iowa)
  • UG skywalkin (Indiana)
  • Yam Haus (Minneota)
  • Keyone Starr (Mississippi)
  • AleXa (Oklahoma)
  • Christian Pagán (Puerto Rico)
  • Hueston (Rhode Island)
  • Jake’O (Wisconsin)
  • Ryan Charles (Wyoming)

*All talent subject to availability*

When:                 Monday, March 21, 2022

5:00pm PT           Live Show Taping Begins

7:00pm PT           Live Show Ends/Virtual Zoom Room begins

9:00pm PT           Virtual Zoom Room Closes

About ‘American Song Contest’:

From the producers of “Eurovision Song Contest” and “The Voice,” the all-live music competition series, hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, premieres Monday, March 21 (8:00 – 10:00 pm ET/PT) and will run for eight weeks with the Grand Final on May 9.

“American Song Contest” will feature live new music performances – representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital – competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. An incredible solo artist, duo or a band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America. The live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

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Michael Bolton of Connecticut

Interview with Kelly Clarkson

TV Interview!

 

Kelly Clarkson of "American Song Contest" on NBC. Photo from video on etonline.com

Interview with EP and host Kelly Clarkson, EP/showrunner Audrey Morrissey, EP Ben Silverman, EP Anders Lenhoff and EP Christer Björkman of “American Song Contest” on NBC by Suzanne 3/14/22

This was a press conference for the upcoming show, “American Song Contest”. I was just one of many journalists in attendance This sounds like a fun show. It begins Monday, 3/21 on NBC! There are 54 contestants total – one from each state or territory. They compete each week until they narrow it down. You can vote online between the airing of the episode on Monday, and Wednesday. Each of the contestants are professional working musicians, not newbies or amateurs. Based on “Eurovision,” each group performs their original song. So, unlike, say, “The Voice,” they’re being judged more for their performing and songwriting talent than they are for their singing and playing.

Kelly Clarkson was very enthusiastic on Zoom. I’m told that she’s often this way. I don’t watch her show, and I haven’t seen her on anything else, so I’ll have to take their word for it. She certainly loves to talk! I can see why she has a talk show.

Along with Kelly, who’s both co-host and executive producer, were the executive producers and showrunner Audrey Morrissey.  Two of the EPs, Lenhoff and Björkman, were involved with Eurovision, the European music contest that “American Song Contest” is based on.

It was very interesting to learn about this new show, which is different from all of the other singing contests on TV, such as “American Idol,” “The Voice,” “America’s Got Talent,” etc.

The show is the brainchild of EP Ben Silverman, who’s been working for “over 25 years” to try to get the Eurovision rights to make an American version. Eurovision was “not only the first, it’s the most ambitious and unique.” He’s understandably “thrilled” to be finally putting it all together for NBC. He hopes the audience will tune it because it’s live, they have great hosts in Snoop and Kelly and “It’s filled with regional passion and state by state brilliance. And I think you are going to be amazed to see some professionals, some amateurs, all different kinds of genres of music.”

Kelly is looking forward to the world seeing the diversity they have on the show because she knows there are different types of music all over the U.S., including in her home state of Texas. She really hopes that the show helps heal the country because it’s so “divided” right now “because people have their preconceived notions of who is from where. And that’s just not true anymore, especially in such a digital age and the Internet age. We are all very similar more than not. But, also, we do represent different cultures, which is going to be cool.”

You may wonder if larger states like Texas will get more votes than the smaller ones, but Silverman explained that, just like in Eurovision, every state has equal voting power. Kelly believes that people will vote for the artists that like the best – not just the ones in their home state. Kelly had worked with Snoop Dog before on “The Voice” and proclaimed that they worked really well together. “the thing I loved most about him is that he really took his time listening and kind of taking it in, like, each performance.” So she’s very excited to be hosting with him. She pointed out that they both represent vastly different types of music as well as areas of the country.

Producer Morrissey explained that they put out the word to all of professional people they knew, in “a really vast network of A&R scouts, managers, booking agents” from other music shows like “The Voice” and “Songland.” She had to make it show that this show is not like “American Idol” or the other shows. It’s for professional musicians. “This is for the artists, the person who is committed to ‘This is what I’m doing in my life, and I’ve been grinding it and working it on the road for years. I’m kind of a known entity. A&R scouts know about me. Maybe I am about to be signed, or I already have been signed, or I’ve turned down deals because I want to go it alone.'” In the future, they hope to have a mechanism similar to Eurovision, where each state has its own contest and the winner of each contest goes to their show.

Kelly and the other producers are really excited to show us that their show will have the “really over the top costumes and production stage values that” Eurovision has. Silverman noted, “It’s unbelievable, our sets, the spectacle, the costume design, the lighting design, all of the production value.” He cited the finale as being very similar to the type they do on the original Eurovision.

They don’t think that the more famous artists like Jewel will necessarily have an edge over the lesser-known artists in the competition. Each one has to prove themselves in the competition, famous or not. It’s also a great venue for any of the artists to showcase a new song.

Monday, 3/20 I’ll be watching the show and interviewing some of the contestants afterwards, live, so stay tuned!

MORE INFO:

American Song Contest

Mondays on NBC (8-10 p.m. ET); Series Premiere: March 21

America’s biggest live entertainment event has arrived! Based on the worldwide phenomenon “Eurovision Song Contest,” organized for 65 years by the European Broadcasting Union and watched by 200 million viewers annually, this amazing musical spectacular combines the competitive spirit of rooting for your favorite sports team with the joy of watching a beloved singing performance.

In the U.S. version of the international megahit, “American Song Contest” will feature live original musical performances, representing all 50 states, five U.S. territories and our nation’s capital, competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. The 56 artists span a wide range of performers – from undiscovered talent, up-and-coming new artists, and rising stars to established and legendary icons. An incredible solo artist, duo, group or band will represent each location and perform a new original song, celebrating the depth and variety of different styles and genres across America.

Hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, the eight-week live competition consists of three rounds as the artists compete in a series of Qualifying Rounds, followed by the Semi-Finals and the ultimate Grand Final where one state or territory will emerge victorious.

“American Song Contest” is executive produced by Propagate’s Ben Silverman and Howard T. Owens, alongside Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson and Gregory Lipstone as well as American Song Contest, Inc.’s Anders Lenhoff, Christer Björkman, Peter Settman and Ola Melzig. Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson also serve as executive producers.

The series is produced by Propagate in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, and American Song Contest, Inc.

Hashtag: #AmericanSongContest

AMERICAN SONG CONTEST— Season: 1 -- Pictured: Kelly Clarkson, Snoop Dogg -- (Photo by: Chris Haston/Dave Bjerke/NBC)Kelly Clarkson

Coach, “The Voice”; Executive Producer/Host, “American Song Contest”; Executive Producer/Host, “The Kelly Clarkson Show”

Kelly Clarkson serves as a coach on NBC’s four-time Emmy Award-winning musical competition series “The Voice.” She won the competition in seasons 14, 15 and 17.

Clarkson will serve as host (with Snoop Dogg) on the new NBC musical competition series “American Song Contest” and she’s currently filming season three of “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” which has already been picked up for a fourth season.

An Emmy-winning talk show host, Grammy Award-winning artist and America’s original idol, Clarkson is one of the most popular artists of this era with total worldwide sales of more than 25 million albums and 40 million singles.

Clarkson recently released her critically acclaimed Grammy-nominated eighth studio album, “Meaning of Life,” and in 2020 released her powerful single “I Dare You,” which she recorded with five other artists in six languages

The Texas-born singer-songwriter first came to fame in 2002 as the winner of the inaugural season of “American Idol.” Clarkson’s debut single, “A Moment Like This,” followed and quickly went to #1 on Billboard’s Hot 100, ultimately ranking as the year’s best-selling single in the U.S. Further, Clarkson is one of pop’s top singles artists, with 17 singles boasting multi-platinum, platinum and gold certifications around the world, including such global favorites as “Miss Independent” and “Because of You.”

Clarkson has released eight studio albums (“Thankful,” “Breakaway,” “My December,” “All I Ever Wanted,” “Stronger,” “Wrapped in Red,” “Piece By Piece,” “Meaning of Life”), one greatest hits album and two children’s books (New York Times Top 10 bestseller “River Rose and the Magical Lullaby” and the follow-up, “River Rose and the Magical Christmas”).

She is the recipient of an array of awards, including two Daytime Emmy Award in 2020 and 2021 for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host, three Grammys, four American Music Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, two Academy of Country Music Awards, two American Country Awards and one Country Music Assn. Award. She is also the first artist to top each of Billboard’s pop, adult contemporary, country and dance charts.

Additionally, Clarkson has hosted the “Billboard Music Awards” for the past three years and she also voices the character of Moxy in “Ugly Dolls” and the character of Delta Dawn in “Trolls World Tour.”

Snoop Dogg

Executive Producer/Host, “American Song Contest”

A multi-platinum artist, actor, philanthropist and entertainment icon, Snoop Dogg has reigned for nearly three decades as an unparalleled force, raising the bar as an award-winning entertainer and globally recognized entrepreneur. Snoop defines entertainment history. He has released 21 studio albums, sold over 40 million albums worldwide, reached No. 1 countless times on Billboard charts internationally and received 20 Grammy nominations.

A California native, Snoop has also appeared in numerous films, such as “Dolemite Is My Name,” “The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run,” “The Addams Family,” “Beach Bum,” “Starsky & Hutch,” “Soul Plane” and the Oscar-winning drama “Training Day,” among others. He has also produced several TV shows and films, including Vice’s “Reincarnated,” “Mac & Dean Go to High School” and “Hood of Horror” through his production company, Snoopadelic Films. He made his mark in television when he garnered an Emmy Award nomination as executive producer for the hit VH1 show “Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner.” Snoop was also the executive producer of the Netflix show “Coach Snoop,” “GGN: Double G News,” MTV’s “Mary + Jane” and the TNT game show “Joker’s Wild,” which he also hosted.

Most recently, Snoop has hosted and produced several projects through his Snoopadelic films, including two Peacock originals – “2021 and Done” alongside Kevin Hart, a hilarious retrospective on the year that began with so much promise; and “Olympic Highlights with Kevin Hart and Snoop Dogg,” recapping the Olympics’ most impressive delays of athleticism and the moments that didn’t go as planned.

Audrey Morissey, Executive Producer and Showrunner of "American Song Contest" on NBCAudrey Morrissey

Executive Producer, “The Voice”; Executive Producer, “American Song Contest”

Audrey Morrissey is an executive producer and the creative force behind NBC’s all-live music competition series “American Song Contest” as well as four-time Emmy Award-winning music competition series “The Voice.”

A veteran of MTV, she spent nine years at the network in their music and specials division working on high-profile music series and annual event specials, such as “Unplugged,” VMAs and MTV Movie Awards.

After several years in New York, she was sent to Los Angeles to build the West Coast production department for both MTV and VH1.

Morrissey then joined Jimmy Iovine and Doug Morris as the Head of Television for their online music venture, Farmclub.com, and met her future partner, Ivan Dudynsky, with whom she started Live Animals Productions.

Since the formation of Live Animals, Morrissey has executive produced award shows, music specials, reality series, music videos and promos. She has executive produced the Emmy Awards, People’s Choice Awards, MTV Movie Awards, CMT Music Awards and, most recently, Teen Choice Awards. She also created and executive produced the NBC series “Songland.”

In addition to her four Emmy wins as executive producer of “The Voice,” Morrissey has five PGA Awards for Outstanding Producer of Competition Television for her work on the show.

Ben Silverman, Executive Producer of "American Song Contest" on NBCBen Silverman

Executive Producer, “American Song Contest”

Ben Silverman, the Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning media entrepreneur, visionary producer and New York Times best-selling author behind “The Office,” is the Chairman and Co-CEO of Propagate Content, creating and producing all forms of content for distribution across a variety of platforms around the world.

Silverman founded two of the media industry’s most renowned super indies, Electus and Reveille. Silverman founded Reveille in 2002 to exploit international formats by selling them in the United States. Prior to launching Electus, Silverman served as Co-Chairman of NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios from 2007-09 where he transformed the business model by connecting advertisers and consumers through content in a more profound way. Through his Electus banner, Silverman took a leadership role in digital content, building the #1 comedy site on the Internet, CollegeHumor.com, and extending projects to multiple platforms, including numerous digital projects and partnerships with Yahoo!, Facebook and YouTube.

Pioneering content at the forefront of the entertainment industry, Silverman has created and executive produced major network, cable and digital platform hits, including Golden Globe and Peabody award-winning shows “The Office,” “Ugly Betty,” “The Biggest Loser” and “The Tudors,” as well as hits such as “Jane the Virgin,” “Marco Polo” and “Flaked” with Will Arnett and Mitch Hurwitz for Netflix, NBC’s transformative TV commerce show “Fashion Star” and “Running Wild with Bear Grylls” on Nat Geo. Silverman has also produced feature films, including “My Boyfriend’s Meds,” “Mansome” and “Hands of Stone,” the biopic of Roberto Duran starring Robert De Niro, Usher and Edgar Ramirez that premiered at Cannes Film Festival.

Silverman’s Propagate has offices in Los Angeles, New York, and Paris. Its recent credits include the critically acclaimed sports doc series “Untold” on Netflix, the US Women’s soccer doc “LFG” that premiered at Tribeca and now streams on HBO Max, the Emmy-nominated “Hillary” that premiered at Sundance and now streams on Hulu, “Notre Dame: Our Lady of Paris” on ABC, the “Go-Big Show” on TBS and the upcoming “American Song Contest” for NBC, as well as the unscripted “Nov. 13: Attack on Paris,” “Haunted” and “Prank Encounters” for Netflix, and “In Search Of” and “Kings of Pain” for History.

On the scripted side, Propagate’s scripted credits include “Shaka Zulu” for Showtime, “Remote” for Comedy Central and “Pinches Momias” for Univision, as well as “Rebelde” streaming on Netflix, “Let’s Be Real” on Fox, “Blood and Treasure” and “Broke” for CBS, and “Charmed” for the CW. Propagate also created and produced the podcast “An Oral History of the Office” for Spotify and the New York Times bestselling book “Welcome to Dunder Mifflin,” based on the podcast. Propagate’s expanding portfolio of companies includes Electus (“You vs. Wild,” “Running Wild With Bear Grylls,” “Jane the Virgin,” “Fashion Star”), Big Breakfast (“Adam Ruins Everything”, “Hot Date”), Notional (“Chopped” franchise), and talent management firms Artists First, Authentic Talent & Literary Management and Select Management.

Anders Lenhoff

Executive Producer, “American Song Contest”

Anders Lenhoff is one of the elite TV creatives in Europe with a career-spanning almost three decades having created, produced and/or directed 15 different TV shows that rated above 10% of the population.

In addition to serving as show producer for the Eurovision Song Contest, as well as Melodifestivalen, his other credits include the first ever season of “Expedition: Robinson, Survivor” and international versions of the hit UK panel comedies “QI” and “Have I Got News for You.”

Lenhoff also created and ran “The Commission,” a 12-episode political drama that was nominated for Prix d’Europe. In addition, he produced a highly comedy talk show in Sweden, three annual award shows, directed a long-running Swedish drama series and sketch-comedy series “Reuter & Skoog” and “Hipp Hipp,” the latter of which won a Silver Rose as the best light entertainment in Europe.

Christer Björkman

Anders Lenhoff and Christer BjörkmanExecutive Producer, “American Song Contest”

Christer Björkman is a living legend among Eurovision fans.

An avid fan of the competition since early childhood, he dreamed of competing as an artist in the Swedish selection show. In 1992, his dream came through. He entered and won and got to represent Sweden in the Eurovision Song Contest.

However, his true legacy began in 2002 when he was appointed Contest Producer and Creative Director for “Melodifestivalen,” the Swedish selection show for the ESC. At the time, “Melodifestivalen” was a crumbling format in steep decline, but with Björkman at the helm, it quickly turned into one of the biggest TV success stories in the world of television. “Melodifestivalen” has been the biggest entertainment show in Scandinavia for almost two decades.

During Björkman’s reign, Sweden has won the ESC twice, making it the second most successful competing country in history. Björkman is also the most experienced ESC producer ever and consults for broadcasters all over Europe.

Björkman was awarded a Rose d’Or for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2016.

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

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AMERICAN SONG CONTEST— Season: 1 -- Pictured: Kelly Clarkson -- (Photo by: Chris Haston/NBC)

Interview with Noah Weisberg

TV Interview!

Noah Weisberg of "Super Pumped: The Story of Uber"

Interview with Noah Weisberg of “Super Pumped: The Story of Uber” on Showtime by Thane 3/17/22

It was a pleasure to speak to him about the show. I’ve known the controversies surrounding Uber for quite a while, so I enjoyed watching a series about it. This is such a great show, and it’s clear that everyone involved loves it and puts forth their best efforts.

 

Enjoy the video! We’ll have the transcript up soon…

Check out our other Interview with actors Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Kyle Chandler and Uma Thurman; and EP/Writers Brian Koppelman, David Levien, and Beth Schacter of “Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber” on Showtime 2/23/22

MORE INFO:

Babak Tafti, Noah Weisberg and Joseph Gordon-Levitt in a scene from "Super Pumped: The Battle of Uber"SUPER PUMPED

“TK — You’re going to love my nuts.” Quentin / Noah Weisberg

Last week, audiences had the opportunity to watch the premiere episode of Showtime’s “SUPER PUMPED: The Battle for Uber”. In the opening scene, you meet Quentin, played by rising star Noah Weisberg (Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist).

“TK, you’re gonna love my nuts,” says Quentin, before pitching the Safe Rides Fee: a surcharge added to each trip to cover added costs of ensuring safety… except Uber isn’t taking any extra measures to ensure safety. Paired with a cheap safety video made for drivers, the fee just provides the illusion of care, while bringing in hundreds of millions in profit for Uber. “Wow, I do love your nuts,” Travis responds.

At the end of the episode, we witness the initial moment Travis Kalanick, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, hires Quentin after Quentin claims himself as “an asshole”. “That’s the right answer. Because if you’re not, you’ll never make it at Uber.” TK responds.

Noah Weisberg‘s Quentin will be featured in 6 out of the 7 episodes of Season One as Head of the Uber Tech Department. As Quentin becomes TK’s right-hand tech man, he finds himself carrying out TK’s (often illegal) technical changes to the app, overriding laws in order to make the most money possible.

Weisberg most recently played ‘Danny Michael Davis’ on the fan-favorite NBC series ZOEY’S EXTRAORDINARY PLAYLIST on both its seasons. Prior to that, Weisberg starred as ‘Willy Wonka’ on the national tour of CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY.

Television credits include recurring roles on Fox’s MODERN FAMILY, TNT’s MAJOR CRIMES, and NBC’s LAW & ORDER, and he has guest-starred on numerous series including CBS’ THE WISDOM THE CROWD, CBS’ THE GOOD WIFE, TBS’ FRANKLIN & BASH, Fox’s BONES, CBS’ BAD TEACHER, NBC’s THE NEW NORMAL.

Noah is also well-known from being part of the Original Broadway casts of ELF – THE MUSICAL, ENRON, LEGALLY BLONDE, and the Off-Broadway revival productions of THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA and DAMN YANKEES. Weisberg also wrote, directed, and starred in the award-winning short film THANK YOU KINDLY, co-starring Kimiko Glenn.

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1798631/

Website: www.noahweisberg.com

Proofread and Edited by Brenda

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Noah Weisberg of "Super Pumped: The Story of Uber"

Interview with Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu and Adrian Groulx

TV Interview!

Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu and Adrian Groulx of "Young Rock" on NBC

Interview with Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu and Adrian Groulx of “Young Rock” on NBC Thane 3/9/22

Speaking with these three young men was almost like talking to “The Rock” himself! They were a lot of fun to chat with. I especially enjoyed hearing about Uli and Bradley’s workouts.  Don’t miss the Season 2 premiere 3/15!

Jamie: Bradley, I love the dynamics between teenage Duane and Ata. Talk about what we will be exploring in their relationship this season.

Bradley: Oh yeah. That’s– I will agree with you. I love that relationship just as much. Coming back this season, I was really hoping to have more scenes that would show that special dynamic between Dwayne and his mom because me and my mom are so close and she’s always been there for me and that’s always been kind of a staple in me becoming who I am, and this season, it really opens up a lot more in my timeline, especially, Dwayne really leaned on his mom. When things were really hard, she was always there for him. When he was lost, she always found them and kind of kept them moving forward and always staying positive. And this season, there’s a lot more of that.

Jamie: Uli, Stacy mentioned that she’ll be getting to work more with you this season as well because you’re more grown and you’re exploring the older aspects of Dwayne a lot as well. And she noted that 20-year-old Dwayne also butts heads a lot with hi mom as well. And it’s hard to parent from far away, you know, you’re in Miami at this time. What did Dwayne talk about with you about their relationship as far as mother and son being so loving and so close, yet being so far away at this point in their lives?

Uli: Yeah, we didn’t actually– Dwayne and I didn’t actually hit on anything with that for this season. But I always knew from the outset, from season one, that their relationship was really really close… is really, really close. The distance thing for me… it doesn’t matter where– Dwayne could be across, you know, the other side of the world and Ata could be on the other side, you know, as they are often at times. But they’re so close, they’ll be on the phone with each other. And that’s the same thing that happens now in our show. It’s like, they’re never far from each other at all. Ata is always checking in or, [saying] “Have you done this? We’ve done this, we’ve done this. Have you received this package?” or whatnot. And I think that’s how a mum is, you know? My mum was always checking up on me, or [asking] why wasn’t I at home at particular time. Um, let’s not get into that…

(Laughter)

Uli: But that’s what moms do. We’re their babies. So with Dwayne and Ata, it’s no different,

Stephanie: So, um, Adrian, one of my favorite parts of the show is the relationship between young Dewey and Andre the Giant. Is that something we’re going to get to continue to see more of in season two?

Adrian: I definitely agree with you. That is definitely one of my favorite aspects of my character’s scenes. And we will get to see a little bit more of Andre and Dewey having some fun.

Stephanie: And, Uli, you’re up to the point where The Rock becomes The Rock. Did you have to learn how to wrestle to play The Rock as he learned how to wrestle.

I did. And we don’t actually jump straight into Dwayne becoming the rock. Obviously he had a quite a bit of a transition from when he stopped playing football. So it was almost like it was parallel with my own learning of how to wrestle. In the storyline Dwayne is learning how to get everything down pat, and so was I, as an actor. So I learned, but I loved it. I grew up playing football, uh, Rugby Union here in Australia. So the contact was– I just felt in my element and, uh, and took to it pretty quickly. So… So, uh, you know, we’ll see… we’ll see if the wrestling fans agree.

Stephanie: We always hear stories from young wrestlers about when they took their first bump. So what was that like for you?

Uli: Oh my gosh. Let’s just say a few crash mats. It was, uh, yeah, it was tough. It’s not as easy, and I will say this, you know… I think the general perception outside of wrestling fans is that it’s all make believe, but I guarantee you, the hits are real. And your body.. We ended up shooting 13-hour days. And then at the end of those 13 hours, come and rehearse wrestling. So your body feels it, and full credit to everyone who gets into the squaredd circle, as they say.

Stephanie: And, Bradley (and for everyone), you guys all got to actually work together in the Christmas episode. Is that something you’d like to do more of in other, maybe special episodes?

Bradley: Oh, are you kidding me? I would love that. There’s so many, like, fun ideas you can think of. You could do, like, a Halloween episode. I would love to do a musical episode. We can all be in something like that. That’d be pretty cool.

Uli: Yeah.

Bradley: I know that the opportunities are endless. I’d love to do it.

Uli: We pitched it, by the way.

Bradley: Yeah, we pitched it.

Uli: So Joseph Lee Anderson and I (sorry, I don’t know if we have time for this, but) were singing backstage, and just fooling around. And then, uh, Brian Goatz, who’s the producer from Seven Bucks (Production) was there, and he started recording. And then sent it to DJ. So I dunno if that’s, you know, potentially, we could have a [musical] “Young Rock.”

Bradley: And they can both sing… just about everyone on this show can actually really sing. You know what? Let’s go for it.

Stephanie: Thank you.

Moderator: Okay. Next we have Thane with The TV MegaSite.

Uli: Hey, Thane.

Bradley: What’s up?

Thane: Bradley and Uli, do you spend a lot of time working out? How much time per week?

Uli: I’ll take this one. Uh, I train maybe five days, depending, five days a week. I really enjoy staying in shape and going to the gym and working out. It helps me quite a lot. Um, so yeah, so I mix up weight training with, um, Very little cardio. So that’s what I that’s what I like to do.

(Bradley laughs at his cardio comment)

Bradley: During filming, me and my buddy, Michael, we would.. we’d go to the gym every morning at 3:00 AM. And that was the first time I’ve ever been that religious about it. Like this season, it was probably the most I’ve ever worked out in my life. I really enjoyed it. And it’s, like, it’s followed me ever since. So it’s about six, seven days a week now. I’ll take off and do… I’ll do more cardio because I like it. (Laughs)

Uli: By the way, Bradley was up at 3:00 AM every morning. This is no word of a lie. And I would see him and another cast mate (who I can’t announce) at the gym every morning, 3:30, you know, so kudos to you, bruh.

Thane: Did you have to work hard to try to act like The Rock? And did he give you any pointers?

Bradley: Uli, you can go first, man.

Uli: Uh, yeah, “Don’t be terrible.” No, he didn’t say that.

(Laughter)

Uli: Uh, he really– Dwayne’s great. He gave us a lot of freedom, and basically, the number one thing for me through our conversations was — particularly in his younger years — he was very driven. He was very focused about achieving something. He wasn’t too sure about what that was or what that looked like. But he knew he was meant for something great. And he was willing to put in the work. And I think for me, Dwayne’s advice was, “Always keep that in the back of your mind, that I’m willing to do the work and get to where I want to get to,” with the two hands that he has.

Bradley: For me, he just told me to have belief in myself, you know, and also, that I was in good hands. And I really was, like having Uli around, having all over producers around… everyone. That’s a part of the “Young Rock” technical team. You know, they’ve got our backs and, you know, leaning into that. You don’t really have to copy anything, and everybody’s got you taken care of. I’m sure, Adrian, you can agree?

Adrian: Yeah, everyone is really, really amazing on, uh, on the cast and crew. I didn’t really get to talk to Duane too much about how to play and, Uh, portray the role. So I kind of.. while I was reading the script side, I had a little fun with it. Maybe, uh, improvised a couple of things. But I didn’t really think too hard about it ’cause I just didn’t want to overthink it. So I , you know, played around with it.

 

Watch our other “Young Rock” Interviews with Stacey Leilua and Joseph Lee Anderson and Ana Tuisila and Matthew Willig

MORE INFO:

Young Rock

Tuesdays on NBC (8-8:30 p.m. ET); Season Premiere: March 15

The second season of “Young Rock” delves back into Dwayne Johnson’s life, continuing the storylines from season one while also introducing new chapters we haven’t yet seen. As Dwayne and his loving, resilient family face new challenges and meet new wild characters of professional wrestling, Dwayne contemplates embracing the grind of professional wrestling himself. The show will explore the crazy rollercoaster that has shaped Dwayne into the man he is today and the larger-than-life people he’s met along the way.

Dwayne Johnson, Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Ana Tuisila, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Fasitua Amosa, John Tui and Matthew Willig star.

Created by Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang and inspired by Dwayne Johnson’s life. Nahnatchka Khan, Jeff Chiang, Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Jennifer Carreras, Hiram Garcia, Brian Gewirtz and Jeffrey Walker serve as executive producers.

“Young Rock” is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.

Bradley Constant

Dwayne Johnson (15 years old), “Young Rock”

YOUNG ROCK -- Season: 2 -- Pictured: Bradley Constant as Dwayne Johnson -- (Photo by: Mark Taylor/NBC)
Bradley Constant plays 15-year-old Dwayne Johnson in the new NBC comedy “Young Rock.” Alabama-born Constant began pursuing acting at 12 and convinced his mom to move him to New York City where he would study and begin to gain experience in the industry. The tough environment and fast-paced productivity of the city prepared him for an even bigger move to Los Angeles, where he is now based. Constant previously appeared in the 2018 film “Following Phil” and has had roles in several shorts before landing the part in “Young Rock.” Constant is a die-hard sports fan who also enjoys gaming, bass fishing and golfing.

 

 

 

 

Uli Latukefu

Dwayne Johnson (age 18-20), “Young Rock”

YOUNG ROCK -- Season: 2 -- Pictured: Uli Latukefu as Dwayne Johnson -- (Photo by: Mark Taylor/NBC)
Uli Latukefu plays 18-20-year-old Dwayne Johnson on the new NBC comedy “Young Rock.” Latukefu will next be seen in Taika Waititi’s feature “Next Goal Wins,” opposite Michael Fassbender and Elizabeth Moss, and was most recently seen in Kriv Stenders’ feature “Danger Close” as well as the new Foxtel drama series “The End.” He also starred in the comedy series “Sando,” the third season of the Nine Network’s “Doctor Doctor” and the drama series “Harrow.” Other screen credits include Ridley Scott’s feature “Alien: Covenant” and Netflix’s epic drama “Marco Polo.” Latukefu was previously featured in Chris Lilley’s “Jonah From Tonga” and the critically acclaimed Foxtel series “Devil’s Playground,” which was awarded the 2015 Silver Logie for Most Outstanding Telemovie and the 2015 AACTA Award for Best Telefeature or Miniseries. He made his Broadway debut in “Peter Pan” at New York’s New Victory Theatre, graduated from Australia’s prestigious National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in 2012 and was a 2016 Heath Ledger Scholarship finalist.

 

Adrian Groulx

Dwayne Johnson (age 10), “Young Rock”

YOUNG ROCK -- Season: 2 -- Pictured: Adrian Groulx as Dwayne Johnson -- (Photo by: Mark Taylor/NBC)
Adrian Groulx plays 10-year-old Dwayne Johnson on the new NBC comedy “Young Rock.” Groulx is a Toronto-based actor who will next be seen on the Apple+ series “See,” starring Jason Momoa. Previously, he was a series regular on the CBC series “The Adventures of Napkin Man” and also appeared in the Hallmark Channel movie “The Christmas Cure.” In his free time, Groulx enjoys playing sports and spending time with his family.

 

 

 

 

 

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Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu and Adrian Groulx of "Young Rock" on NBC