By: Stacy M. Brown/ NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent Comedian Dave Chappelle said he’s been disinvited to film festivals, and no company or studio will entertain his new documentary because of the fallout from his controversial Netflix special, “The Closer.” And while he’s willing to meet with the transgender community and Netflix employees who voiced outrage over his act, Chappelle made it clear that he wouldn’t kowtow to anyone. “To the transgender community, I am more than willing to give you an audience, but you will not summon me,” Chappelle said in a video released early Tuesday. “I am not bending to anyone’s demands,” he insisted. Chappelle double-downed on his remarks from The Closer in which many in the LGBTQ community called homophobic. “I said what I said,” Chappelle declared. He also clarified reports that he has sought meetings with transgender Netflix employees angered by his special. “It’s been said in the press that I was invited to speak to the transgender employees of Netflix, and I refused. That is not true — if they had invited me, I would have accepted it, although I am confused about what we would be speaking about,” Chappelle remarked in the viral video. “I said what I said, and boy, I heard what you said. My God, how could I not? You said you want a safe working environment at Netflix. It seems like I’m the only one that can’t go to the office anymore.” Chappelle also said he believed any controversy stemmed from corporate interests, and that he’s received support from the LGBTQ community. Washington Informer Editor D. Kevin McNeir, who is openly gay, has said he didn’t have an issue with Chappelle’s remarks in The Closer. “I listened closely to what he said and then listened to his explanation for the subjects he had chosen and his rationale for his perspectives. And he made sense. I understood. And I was not offended,” McNeir wrote in an op-ed for the Informer. Chappelle admits that when he takes on a group of people, making them the focus of his jokes, that he’s also examining […]
By: Stacy M. Brown/ NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent Film director Dave Wooley has known and worked with the legendary Dionne Warwick for two decades, and the only thing about her greatness that surprises him is that major studios haven’t come calling about her new, award-winning documentary, “Dionne Warwick: Don’t Make Me Over.” “We are looking for a major distributor for the film,” Wooley told the Black Press of America during an appearance on the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) live morning news program “Let It Be Known.” The NNPA is the trade association that represents the Black Press of America. “When [developing] the film, you realize you have to call Bill Clinton, you have to call Snoop Dogg, and Gladys Knight, and others,” Wooley remarked. “It’s like, ‘wow!” Recently, the film earned “First Runner Up” honors in the documentary category of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) People’s Choice Award. Warwick, whose bevy of hits include “That’s What Friends Are For,” “Do You Know the Way to San Jose,” and “Don’t Make Me Over,” Received the TIFF Special Tribute Award for her legendary career and work. The documentary chronicles the Grammy Award-winning singing legend’s life and career and “is based on love,” Wooley stated. “It was indeed a labor of love,” added Wooley, who produced, wrote, and co-directed the documentary. Wooley also co-authored Warwick’s autobiography, “My Life: As I See it.” “Working on this documentary is a dream come true,” Wooley explained. “It took me five years to produce this film. While a project like this will have its ups and downs, especially given the time it took to complete the documentary, to see the movie come to fruition, and most importantly, for Ms. Warwick to receive such accolades during her lifetime is gratifying and made it all well worth it”. The director insisted that the audience reaction to “Dionne Warwick: Don’t Make Me Over” at the Toronto International Film Festival amazed him and Warwick. “We received two standing ovations after the documentary was seen, and the audience continued to cheer on afterward,” Wooley said. “Keep in mind that the
By: Nsenga K. Burton Ph.D. Jennifer Hudson, who Franklin hand-picked to play her before her death in 2018, rose to fame as a contestant on American Idol in 2004. Hudson was lambasted by cantankerous host Simon Cowell who said Hudson was “out of her depth” in the contest and would not make it in the industry. Three years later, Cowell issued a public mea culpa saying he was “wrong” about Hudson after she won the 2007 Academy Award for best-supporting actress in her breakout role as Effie White in Bill Condon’s film version of Dreamgirls. Academy award-winning actress and Grammy award-winner Jennifer Hudson has made a triumphant return to the big screen in the role of a lifetime, starring as Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul. Named for one of Franklin’s greatest hits, Respect, a biopic written by Tracey Scott Wilson and directed by Liesl Tommy, takes viewers on a journey through Franklin’s tumultuous life. Despite all of the personal obstacles and professional challenges, Franklin who was lauded and often described as a genius because of her impeccable musicianship, empowering writing and powerful performances, rose above the setbacks becoming the voice of a generation. Hudson, who Franklin hand-picked to play her before her death in 2018, rose to fame as a contestant on American Idol in 2004. Hudson was lambasted by cantankerous host Simon Cowell who said Hudson was “out of her depth” in the contest and would not make it in the industry. Three years later, Cowell issued a public mea culpa saying he was “wrong” about Hudson after she won the 2007 Academy Award for best supporting actress in her breakout role as Effie White in Bill Condon’s film version of Dreamgirls. Hudson’s self-titled debut album would go on to win the Grammy for Best R&B album in 2008. In October of that same year, Hudson’s mother and nephew were tragically killed in a domestic violence incident. Like Franklin, Hudson’s young life was marked by obstacles and tragedies. Like Franklin, she rose above them and continued to build and maintain a celebrated career. In a virtual interview with Hudson, the two-time Grammy winner discusses
Spurred in part by the success of general audience titles like, “A Series of Unfortunate Events,” by Lemony Snicket and “A Wrinkle in Time,” by Madeleline L’Engle (which was each produced as a film), the category also includes books by African American authors that explore themes familiar to Black teens. Following the relative success of the first part of his series for young adults, Hoover’s newest entry into the fray, “He Was My Hero, Too,” shares many of the same themes.
The world has lost a true legend as Hollywood icon Cicely Tyson died at the age of 96. The pioneering African American actress — who gained an Oscar nomination for her role as the sharecropper’s wife in “Sounder,” won a Tony Award in 2013 at age 88 and touched TV viewers’ hearts in âThe Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman” — was in the middle of promoting her new memoir, “Just As I Am,” when she quietly passed away.
NNPA NEWSWIRE — Why did the NYPD ask the Hawkins family not to publicize their son’s death? How did Bensonhurst’s Mafia ecosystem influence an arrest? What happened to Mondello, the bat-wielding mob and the killer? Who attempted to assassinate Sharpton? The film answers questions you couldn’t conceive.
Yusuf Hawkins walked into a nightmare. This is what happened to him and those around him. His innocence and tragic murder made him a martyr who was eulogized at his funeral: “God takes the life of one who is pure to save those who are not pure.” For that to be true, lessons and principles have to be learned by those left behind. Has that happened?
CHICAGO CRUSADER — The Virtual Cinema experience was created to assist temporarily closed independent theaters. By purchasing a “ticket,” you will be directly supporting Music Box Theatre, as all revenue is being shared between distributor and exhibitor just as if you bought your ticket at the theater’s box office.
ROLLING OUT — Even as a mentor in rap, Chuck D continues to put in work behind the mic. In 2017, Public Enemy released the album Nothing Is Quick in the Desert and they are preparing to release their 14th studio album this summer, Loud Is Not Enough. Chuck D is also a member of the group Prophets of Rage, which features members of Rage Against the Machine and Cypress Hill. And he recently formed a group called Night Train with Speech from Arrested Development and Daddy-O of Stetsasonic.
#FIYAH! LIVESTREAM — STEPHANIE MILLS — With a career that spans more than 35 years, Mills has distinguished herself as an actress and performer whom her manager says is just as much at home on the Broadway stage as in the recording studio. Her endless string of hit records include, “Whatcha Gonna Do with My Lovin,’” “Never Knew Love Like This Before,” “If I Were Your Woman,” “I Feel Good All Over,” “You Putting a Rush on Me,” “I Have Learned to Respect the Power of Love,” “Something in the Way You Make Me Feel,” and “Home.”
No playing nice in the sandbox this weekend for two of Hollywood’s most high-profile women who had a lot to say over a comment made by Colin Kaepernick.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
