News (Entertainment)

Grammys CEO on a mission to regain music community’s trust

When Harvey Mason jr. took the helm at the Recording Academy, the Grammy-nominated producer knew there would be an uphill climb. He’s heard firsthand from some in the music community that the academy wasn’t a fit for them, the award voting process was ineffective, and that the organization lacked diversity. Those critical responses have fueled Mason’s mission as the academy’s CEO to right the wrongs and listen to the voices of the unheard. He’s already replaced the nominations review committee with a new member peer-driven voting system, overhauled the leadership with two co-presidents, increased membership and committed to hiring more

Soul Train Awards headed to Apollo for the first time

The annual Soul Train Awards will be presented for the first time at New York City’s Apollo Theater, the legendary Harlem performance venue, as two icons of Black culture team up.

The 2021 awards show, which honors the year’s best in soul, hip-hop and R&B, will be taped and debut on BET and BET Her on Nov. 28 at 8 p.m. Eastern and Pacific. BET has aired the show since 2009, taping in Las Vegas in recent years.

Disney delays ‘Indiana Jones 5,’ ‘Black Panther 2’ releases

This image released by Disney shows Lupita Nyong’o, left, and Letitia Wright in a scene from Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther.” The Walt Disney Co. is pushing back the release dates of many of its upcoming titles, including the Black Panther sequel “Wakanda Forever,” which is currently in production. (Matt Kennedy/Marvel Studios-Disney via AP)

More Diversity at the Academy!

This is the kind of news that makes creative people working in the film industry celebrate because Emmy-nominated producer Will Packer will produce the 94th Oscars.  Academy President David Rubin made the announcement.  It will be his first involvement with the Oscars, which will air live on ABC and broadcast outlets worldwide on Sunday, March 27, 2022.

“Will is a powerhouse producer who has enjoyed success across all movie genres.  He’s already bringing a boundless energy and a focus on innovation to this year’s Oscars, to entertain the widest spectrum of fans.  Many wonderful surprises ahead!” said Rubin and Academy CEO Dawn Hudson.