The Bella Twins Sign with SMAC Entertainment

Brie Bella and Nikki Bella are getting SMAC’ed

The 36-year-old half-Mexican American twin sisters and former WWE Divas champions, known as The Bella Twins, have signed with Michael Strahan and Constance Schwartz-Morini’s SMAC Entertainment.

The Bella Twins

The company will represent Nikki and Brie, who star in and executive E!’s Total Bellasrecently renewed for a sixth season.

This comes after the business signed Power alum Omari Hardwick to its client roster and launched in-house social media management and digital consulting division SMAC Digital Management.

In addition to starring and exec producing Total Bellas, the pair wrestle in the WWE, run female apparel line Birdiebee and recently published a memoir Incomparable.

SMAC Entertainment was founded in 2011 and its roster includes Erin AndrewsShante BroadusOctober GonzalezTony GonzalezMichael GriffinBryan HynsonWiz KhalifaCurt Menefee,Brian Orakpo and Deion Sanders

“We’re excited to welcome Brie and Nikki to the SMAC family,” said Strahan and Schwartz-Morini. “They are incredibly talented, versatile and encompass the same work ethic that we pride ourselves on and value most. We look forward to joining forces to help expand on the incredible foundation they’ve already built for their growing empire.”

Maurice Benard to Appear on the Daytime Emmy Awards

Maurice Benard has special plans this Friday…

The 57-year-old Salvadorian and Nicaraguan American actor and General Hospital star is set to appear on the 47th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards this Friday on CBS.

Maurice Bernard

Benard, who has portrayed Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital since 1993, is a two-time Daytime Emmy Award winner, including a win last year in the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series category.

Bernard joins a presenters and performers roster that includes Kelly Ripa and Ryan SeacrestKelsey GrammerGayle King, Melody Scott ThomasKathie Lee Gifford, Cookie MonsterScott EvansPatrika Darbo, Kevin FrazierWayne BradyMichael Strahan, James ReynoldsJacqueline MacInnes WoodNate BurlesonSunny Hostin and Eric Braeden.

The event’s hosts will be Sharon OsbourneSheryl UnderwoodEveCarrie Ann Inaba and Marie Osmond.

This year, awards in the leading categories will be presented virtually, with recipients and other guests appearing from home. Additional categories will be announced on the Daytime Emmys’ social media accounts simultaneously with the CBS broadcast, with some immediately following the broadcast and others streamed in separate virtual ceremonies on July 19 and July 26.

The 47th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be broadcast Friday, June 26, 8:00 – 10:00 pm ET/PT) on CBS.

Categories scheduled for the CBS broadcast include:

Outstanding Drama Series
Outstanding Performance by a Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Outstanding Performance by a Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Outstanding Entertainment News Show
Outstanding Writing Team for a Drama Series
Outstanding Digital Drama Series
Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host
Outstanding Game Show Host
Outstanding Game Show
Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series
Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show
Outstanding Informative Talk Show
Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series
Outstanding Legal/Courtroom Program
Outstanding Special Class Special
Outstanding Culinary Series
Outstanding Morning Show
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Jennifer Lopez to Appear as Part of YouTube’s “Dear Class of 2020” Global Virtual Commencement Ceremony

Jennifer Lopez is ready to motivate this year’s graduates…

YouTube has added several speakers and musical performances to Dear Class of 2020its global virtual commencement ceremony set for June 6, including the 50-year-old Puerto Rican superstar.

Jennifer Lopez

In addition to Lopez, others joining Barack and Michelle ObamaLady Gaga and more as part of the special event are Beyoncé Knowles-Carter— who will deliver an inspirational message to the graduates — La La AnthonyAndy CohenLana CondorMisty Copeland,Kevin DurantFINNEASBill & Melinda GatesJoseph Gordon-LevittDemi LovatoHasan MinhajJanelle Monáe,Antoni PorowskiBilly PorterPhoebe RobinsonYara ShahidiMichael StrahanTaylor SwiftCiaraRussell Wilson, the casts of Euphoria and RiverdaleToday’s Jenna Bush Hager and Natalie Morales, and YouTub ecreators Emma Chamberlain, John GreenNikkieTutorials, and Mark Rober.

The multi-hour event premieres on Saturday, June 6 on YouTube. Other speakers and performers include BTSAlicia KeysKelly Rowland, Kerry WashingtonChloe x Halle and Zendaya, among others.

Barack and Michelle Obama each will deliver commencement speeches – as well as a joint heartfelt message – to this year’s high school and college seniors who are missing graduation celebrations due to the coronavirus pandemic. Additionally, Michelle Obama’s Higher Reach Initiative will host a full hour of content to kick off the celebration.

“Graduation is a tradition that students and families look forward to and with the current state of the world, YouTube is lending some inspiration in the form of a virtual commencement,” said Susanne Daniels, Global Head of Content for YouTube. “We hope bringing together noteworthy, influential speakers along with performances from some of their favorite artists will provide encouragement for the students who have worked so hard to get here.”

In “Dear Class of 2020,” people from around the world will join the class of 2020 as a singular community to celebrate their resilience, and the endless possibilities of their future, says YouTube. 

“The festival-style line up combines classic commencement day themes with a diverse array of entertainment that will capture all of the emotions of graduation including pride, hope, optimism, and camaraderie.”

YouTube is working in partnership with Higher Reach, Born This Way FoundationMalala FundTODAY, and Ideas United to showcase student stories and feature graduates around the world, including a crowd-sourced commencement speech. The special will be produced by Done + Dusted.

“Dear Class of 2020” can be streamed on the YouTube Originals channel and the Learn@Home site. 

The full schedule of commencement events is available on the Learn@Home site.

JoAnna Garcia Swisher Taking Part in St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Livestream Fundraiser

JoAnna Garcia Swisheris doing her Saint-ly duty…

The 40-year-old half-Cuban American actress has joined the all-star roster of musicians, actors, athletes and influencers gathering for a special #GivingTuesdayNowevent today (May 5) to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

JoAnna Garcia Swisher

The “Take 5 Together #forStJude” livestream will take place from 2:00 – 6:00 pm EST and feature singing, dancing, cooking, stretching and laughter in honor of the hospitalthat is the leader in treating childhood cancer.

In addition to Garcia Swisher, the event lineup includes Michael StrahanDrew BarrymoreAshley TisdaleKaia Gerber,Rio RomaShaedSofi TukkerNick SwisherScotty McCreery, Chef Adrianne Calvoand more.

All will “take 5” with St. Jude patients in an effort to “delight and inspire viewers,” according to a statement announcing the event.

St. Jude has also partnered with school spirit company Varsity Brandsfor a TikTokdance challenge to engage supporters willing to show off their best moves #forStJude.

“At St. Jude, our patient families remind us daily that no matter where we are in the world and whatever difficult circumstances we face, it’s important to find ways to be inspired and delighted, and never lose hope,” said Richard C. Shadyac Jr., president and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in the statement.

“On May 5, we’ll all have the opportunity to come together in support of #GivingTuesdayNow, and to bring joy and meaningful impact to the lives of millions as we ‘Take 5 Together #forStJude. Let’s show the world that when facing some of life’s greatest challenges and even when we have to be physically apart, together, we can make a difference in the lives of others and the children at St. Jude.”

The stream will feature, dance lessons, cooking segments, live performances and virtual celebration surprises from celebrity friends and St. Jude patients; click hereto join the event.

Disney Channel Reviving Alisa Reyes’ “The Proud Family” for Disney+

There could be more proudmoments in Alisa Reyes’ future…

Disney Channel’s popular animated series The Proud Family, which featured the 38-year-old Latina actress as part of its voice cats, is making a comeback. 

Alisa Reyes

Jo Marie Payton, who voiced Suga Mama in the series which aired for three seasons from 2001-2005, has confirmed that a revival is in the works at upcoming streaming service Disney+.

It came in an answer to a question from host Keke Palmer about Payton’s Suga Mama character. “Yeah, Suga’s large and in charge. That’s all I’ve got to say — except for Suga Mama will be doing some new episodes come February,” revealed Payton.

the-proud-family

Word of a revival first surfaced in August when Tommy Davidson, who voiced Oscar Proud, told @WhereIsTheBuzzTV that the series would be revived on Disney+. 

Payton’s confirmation was the first announcement on a Disney-owned network. GMA3, the third hour of Good Morning Americaco-hosted by Michael StrahanSara Haines and Palmer, is on Disney-owned ABC.

Created by Bruce W. SmithThe Proud Family was one of very few animated series at the time to center around an African American family. It followed main character Penny Proud, voiced by Kyla Pratt, and the everyday rambunctiousness of her friends and family — with guest stars like Gabrielle UnionKobe Bryant, and Mariah Carey.

Cast also included Paula Jai Parker as Trudy, Reyes as LaCienega Boulevardez, Karen Malina White as Dijonay, Orlando Brownas Sticky Webb, Soleil Moon Fryeas Zoey and Tara Strongas twins Bebe/Cece and Puff the Poodle.

Trujillo & His Metallica Bandmates to Appear on CBS’ “Carpool Karoake: The Series”

Robert Trujillo is sharing a special ride…

The 52-year-old Mexican American musician and his Metallica bandmates will belt out their hits in CBSCarpool Karoake: The Series, which will be streamed on Apple Music, the portal’s first series.

Robert Trujillo

Based on James Corden’s Late Late Show popular segment that has become a viral video sensation, Carpool Karaoke: The Series will feature 16 celebrity hosts — one of whom is Corden, paired with Will Smith — riding along in a car together as they sing tunes from their personal playlists and surprise fans who don’t expect to see big stars belting out songs one lane over.

In addition to Corden, Smith, Metallica, those appearing in the series include Shaquille O’Neal, Seth MacFarlane, Billy Eichner, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Ariana Grande, Chelsea Handler, Blake Shelton, Michael Strahan, Jeff Gordon, John Cena and more.

In a panel for the show at the Television Critics’ Association summer press tour, Corden addressed what the series means for the famed bit on The Late Late Show. “I’m still going to see my kid on the weekends,” said Corden. “This just became a wonderful platform to see these people in a such an intimate environment. I don’t feel it’s mine.”

Carpool Karaoke is produced by CBS Television Studios and Fulwell 73. Corden and Ben Winston serve as co-creators and executive producers along with executive producer and showrunner Eric Pankowski.

Rodriguez to Host CNBC Reality TV Show About Financially Troubled Retired Athletes

Things are about to get real for Alex Rodriguez

The 41-year-old former Dominican American professional baseball star, nicknamed “A-Rod,” will host a CNBC reality television show featuring retired athletes who face financial troubles.

Alex Rodriguez

CNBC announced Tuesday that the show’s working title is “Back in the Game.” It will be co-produced by another former New York sports star, Michael Strahan.

Rodriguez played his final game with the New York Yankees last August, ending a 12-year run with New York. The Yankees will owe him $20 million in 2017, the final season of his 10-year, $275 million contract.

The Yankees announced that Rodriguez will remain with the organization as a team adviser in 2017, but the three-time American League MVP technically is a free agent and can sign with any club.

According to a CNBC release, the pilot episode of “Back in the Game” will pair former athletes “in serious financial distress with money-savvy mentors who can help them get back on their feet.”

Strahan, the Hall of Fame New York Giants defensive end, is listed as one of three executive producers for the show.

Warner Bros. Releases Teaser for Rodriguez’s Male Stripper Drama Sequel “Magic Mike XXL”

Adam Rodriguez is ready to pound the flesh… or at least expose it… once again…

Warner Bros. has released a new teaser trailer for Magic Mike XXL, featuring the return of the 39-year-old Puerto Rican/Cuban-American actor and CSI: Miami alum.

Magic Mike XXL

The film is the highly anticipated follow-up to 2012’s male strip club drama. In addition to Rodriguez, who returns as Tito, Magic Mike XXL sees the return of Channing Tatum, Matt Bomer, Joe Manganiello and Kevin Nash.

New cast members include Elizabeth Banks, Stephen “tWitch” Boss, Donald Glover, Amber Heard, Andie MacDowell, Jada Pinkett Smith and Michael Strahan, plus others.

Gregory Jacobs directs the film, taking the reigns from Steven Soderbergh.

Matthew McConaughey, Olivia Munn and Alex Pettyfer will not be returning.

The trailer has already garnered 2.7 million views on YouTube since its release.

Magic Mike XXL hits theaters on July 1.

González Iñárritu’s “Birdman” Earns 13 Critics’ Choice Movie Awards Nominations

Alejandro González Iñárritu has impressed the critics…

The 51-year-old Mexican filmmaker’s dark comedy Birdman has earned a whopping 13 nominations from the Broadcast Film Critics Association’s 20th Annual Critics’ Choice Movie Awards.

Alejandro González Iñárritu’s Birdman

González Iñárritu’s acclaimed film, which he wrote, directed and produced received nods in the Best Picture and Best Comedy categories.

In addition, he earned two individual nominations. He’s up for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay.

Birdman’s composer Antonio Sanchez has earned a nomination for Best Score. He recently earned his first-ever Golden Globe nomination in the same category for his inspired work on the film.

Emmanuel Lubezki, meantime, picked up a nod for Best Cinematography for his work on Birdman.

In the acting categories, Zoe Saldana picked up a nod in the Best Actress in an Action Movie for her work in Guardians of the Galaxy, while Rosario Dawson earned a nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy for Top Five.

The Guillermo del Toro-produced film The Book of Life received a nod in the Best Animated Feature category.

The Critics’ Choice Movie Awards will take place on the same day that Oscar nominations are announced. The show airs – to the East Coast – live on new network partner, A&E from the Hollywood Palladium at 9:00 pm ET on January 15th with Michael Strahan hosting.

Here’s the full list of Hispanic nominees:

BEST PICTURE
Birdman
Boyhood
Gone Girl
The Grand Budapest Hotel
The Imitation Game
Nightcrawler
Selma
The Theory of Everything
Unbroken
Whiplash

BEST DIRECTOR
Wes Anderson – The Grand Budapest Hotel
Ava DuVernay – Selma
David Fincher – Gone Girl
Alejandro G. Inarritu – Birdman
Angelina Jolie – Unbroken
Richard Linklater – Boyhood

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY
Birdman – Alejandro G. Inarritu, Nicolas Giacobone, Alexander Dinelaris, Jr., Armando Bo
Boyhood – Richard Linklater
The Grand Budapest Hotel – Wes Anderson, Hugo Guinness
Nightcrawler – Dan Gilroy
Whiplash – Damien Chazelle

BEST CINEMATOGRAPY
Birdman – Emmanuel Lubezki
The Grand Budapest Hotel – Robert Yeoman
Interstellar – Hoyte Van Hoytema
Mr. Turner – Dick Pope
Unbroken – Roger Deakins

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE
Big Hero 6
The Book of Life
The Boxtrolls
How to Train Your Dragon 2
The Lego Movie

BEST ACTRESS IN AN ACTION MOVIE
Emily Blunt – Edge of Tomorrow
Scarlett Johansson – Lucy
Jennifer Lawrence – The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1
Zoe Saldana – Guardians of the Galaxy
Shailene Woodley – Divergent

BEST COMEDY
Birdman
The Grand Budapest Hotel
St. Vincent
Top Five
22 Jump Street

BEST ACTRESS IN A COMEDY
Rose Byrne – Neighbors
Rosario Dawson – Top Five
Melissa McCarthy – St. Vincent
Jenny Slate – Obvious Child
Kristen Wiig – The Skeleton Twins

BEST SCORE
Alexandre Desplat – The Imitation Game
Johann Johannsson – The Theory of Everything
Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross – Gone Girl
Antonio Sanchez – Birdman
Hans Zimmer – Interstellar

Fox Confirms Mars as Next Year’s Super Bowl Headline Act

It’s official… Bruno Mars will be bowling over an international audience of football fans this fall…

As previously reported, the 27-year-old part-Puerto Rican singer will perform at  next year’s Super Bowl halftime show.

Bruno Mars

Following the announcement on Fox NFL Sunday alongside co-hosts Curt Menefee and Terry Bradshaw and analysts Howie Long, Jimmy Johnson, Michael Strahan and Jay Glazer, the Grammy-winning artist released a one-minute trailer on his headlining gig at the upcoming Super Bowl, taking place on February 2, 2014 at the Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Posting the video on his YouTube channel, Mars chronicles his rise to pop super stardom, from being a four-year-old child performer doing an Elvis Presley impersonation back in 1990 up to his Unorthodox Jukebox chart-topping days, using footage of his live performances with his Hooligans band and ending with the artwork for the 2014 Pepsi Halftime Show.

Mars himself confirmed the news on Times Square around 12:30 E.T. on Sunday, September 8 after it was reported that the “Locked Out of Heaven” singer had been booked for what annually is the most-watched television event in the U.S. His announcement on Fox NFL Sunday marks the earliest reveal of a Super Bowl Halftime Show performer, kicking off a fanfare-filled lead-up to the halftime show.

Mars will follow Beyonce‘s show-stopping halftime performance earlier this year, featuring a short reunion with Destiny’s Child. Beyonce’s set was watched by a whopping 110.5 million viewers, but it still fell short of Madonna‘s performance the year before that attracted 114 million viewers, making it the most-watched event in U.S. television history.