Roundups #137: Disney Renews Family Guy, The Simpsons And Bob's Burgers Through 2025, Dulas To Stream On eVOD This Valentine's Day And Twitter Now Comes With A Dedicated Hacker's Account, GOD MODE

Fox hands two-season extensions to ‘The Simpsons’, ‘Family Guy’ & ‘Bob’s Burgers’

The three shows, all produced by Disney Television Studios’ 20th Television Animation, have each received two additional seasons to take them through the 2024-25 broadcast cycle.

The renewals guarantee seasons 14 and 15 for Bob’s Burgers, the 22nd and 23rd seasons of Family Guy and the 35th and 36th seasons for The Simpsons, extending its standing as the longest-running scripted series in television history.

“Across 750 episodes of The Simpsons, 400 episodes of Family Guy, and 250 episodes of Bob’s Burgers, we couldn’t be more proud to continue delivering these three animated hits with the most brilliant teams in animation,” said Marci Proietto, EVP of 20th Television Animation.

“Our relationship with Fox over the past three decades has allowed this trio of shows to thrive, grow and deliver immeasurable moments of hilarious and irreverent entertainment for fans, and we are absolutely thrilled that Fox is doubling down on each of these iconic shows.”

Regular Nick:
- February on Disney Channel and Junior
- The Twisted Timeline Of Sammy And Raj to rollout on Nicktoons in Africa
- Moonbug Kids To Distribute New STEAM Focused Series, Ocean Explorers
- New Bear Grylls series is coming soon to Da Vinci Kids

eMedia Investments to launch their first local production of 2023 next month

Last year, it was announced that uMbali will be returning for a second season to the platform but we all that's not entirely new as it's another way expand the duration of a product unlike this production streaming February 14th, Dulas.

A notorious township thug comes back from prison after being sabotaged by his girlfriend and best friend. He hid millions in a grave before getting arrested, but when he returns to the graveyard it has changed completely and now every other tombstone looks like his.

Thabo Malema, Mpho Molembo and Keke Mputhi star in the leading roles.

Aside from Dulas, eVOD will also be rolling out it's second Turkish drama titled Om Elke Draai a few days prior (February 9th). This Turkish romcom stars Furkan Andic and Aybuke Pusat in the leading roles.

Everyday Novelas:
- Nurses returns for a season 3
- The origin story of Forbidden Passion
- New Series Alert: eMedia Investments Acquired Broadcasting Rights To Turkish Romcom, Aşk Mantık İntikam
- Close To My Heart coming soon to Star Life

No one's privacy is safe or at least what Twitter reps say

A new Twitter whistleblower has emerged, supporting last year’s surprising testimony about the dismal state of the company’s privacy protections and saying the company continues to violate its legal obligations under new owner Elon Musk.

The former employee has told members of Congress and staff at the Federal Trade Commission that any Twitter engineer can activate an internal program until recently called “GodMode” and tweet from any account today, three months after Musk’s takeover […]

The new whistleblower said that following internal objections about the program, engineers changed its name to “privileged mode.” The whistleblower said the purpose of the program was to allow Twitter staff to tweet on behalf of advertisers unable to do it themselves […]

The new whistleblower complaint says the GodMode code remains on the laptop of any engineer who wants it. All they would have to do is change a line of the code from FALSE to TRUE and run it from a production machine that they could reach through an easily accessible communications protocol known as SSH.

Google:
- A look into the life of X-Rated Rocky star Sylvester Stallone
- Malverde: Legend or Myth, a look at other patron saints
- 7 things you didn't know about Tom's Diner
- Inside the enduring mysteries of Elvis Presley's tragic fate

Roundups #131: Phineas And Ferb Gets A Two Season Order On Disney Channel And Disney+, 3AM: The Driver Coming Soon To KIX And Decisions Makes A Comeback On Telemundo Africa Ahead Of Nurses S3

40 additional episodes of Phineas And Ferb had been ordered on Disney Channel and Disney+

Disney Branded Television has announced that it has signed a brand new overall deal with Dan Povenmire, who is the co-creator and executive producer of the global super-hit “Phineas and Ferb,” which includes production of 40 all-new episodes of “Phineas and Ferb,” a second season renewal of the animated superhero series “Hamster & Gretel” and the development of live-action projects.

“Phineas and Ferb” is a five-time Emmy Award-winner and the most successful animated series for Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14 in Disney Television Animation history. Since its premiere, “Hamster & Gretel” ties as the #1 cable series among Kids age 6-11 delivery.

The announcement was made during a presentation at the Television Critics Association press tour by Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television, who said in a statement:

“Dan is renowned for his ability to create universally beloved stories and characters with both heart and humor. We couldn’t be happier to continue our collaboration with him and bring back the iconic ‘Phineas and Ferb’ in a big way.”

Regular Nick:
- Could Universal Kids be the next channel to close down from NBCUniversal?
- Here are other ways to view PBS Kids
- The Twisted Timeline Of Sammy And Raj coming soon to Nickelodeon
- Predictions: Nicktoons and Boomerang's untimely demise

Second instalment to 3AM launches on KIX

3AM serves as the channel's first attempt at TV series which was unveiled last year with its first instalment titled The Office. Now the channel will be rolling out the second out of five instalments from the anthology titled The Driver.

A taxi driver who is constantly judging others by his own standards, also reads into their every move and sets out to help 'victims' in his own way. When a woman he likes seems to be bullied by her son, he goes about setting things right for her, even resorting to turning himself into a cold-blooded serial killer.

Produced by Thrill, a general entertainment channel also owned by Celestial Tiger Entertainment. It stars Coby Chong, Thor Yin Wei and Irfani Zhang.

DStv Flex:
- February on The Home Channel
- February on HONEY
- Reyka renewed for season 2 on M-Net
- What to expect this January on Qwest TV?

Telemundo counts down the days to Nurses S3 with Decisions

Earlier in the month, Telemundo welcomed back a fan-favourite Fearless Heart (Corazon Valiente) for the 100th time onto Africa's screens and with Nurses reaching its climax for the second season the channel opts for fan-favourite shows with Decisions.

The anthology tell stories that are affecting ordinary people today. Inspired by high profile research, cases of human identity, social and political struggles, each episode focuses on a transcendental decision that will change the lives of the main characters in a moving, extraordinary and radical way.

It features a variety of cast members including Jorge Luis Pila, Laura Flores, Litzy, Jonathan Islas and Ana María Estupiñán.

Decisions is expected to make a comeback on January 26th with season 3 of Nurses set to air on February 13th.

Everyday Novelas:
- Ramo coming soon to eVOD
- Forbidden Passion season 2 not moving forward on Telemundo
- Nurses returns for a season 3
- The origin story of Forbidden Passion

List: 2023 In Terms Of Animation

Netflix:

Make My Day
Tomb Raider
Onmyōji
Untitled Asterix Animated Series
Boons and Curses
Little Baby Bum: Music Time
Mech Cadets
Princess Power
Akuma-Kun
CoComelon Lane
My Dad the Bounty Hunter
Dew Drop Dairies
Not Quite Narwhal
Exploding Kittens

HBO Max, Cartoon Network and Cartoonito:

Jade Armor
Velma
Bugs Bunny Builders
Batwheels
Clone High
Bea's Block
Goat Girl
Tiny Toons Looniversity
S.M.A.S.H.
Bea's Block
Gremlins: Secrets Of Mogwai
Batman: Caped Crusader
Hurry Hurry Tom And Jerry
Young Love
Scavengers Reign
Tom And Jerry Time
Unlimited Squirrels!
Iyanu: Child Of Wonder
Spookies
My Adventures With Superman
Silly Sundays
The Heroic Quest of the Valiant Prince Ivandoe
Totally Spies!
Jessica's Big Little World

Insidus Games:
- Tom And Jerry: Infurnal Escape
- Tom And Jerry: The Magic Ring
- Captain America: Sentinel Of Liberty
- The Wild Thornberrys Movie
- The Wild Thornberrys: Chimp Chase

Disney+, Disney Channel and Disney Junior:

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
Tiana
Win Or Lose
Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes
Duffy And Friends
Pretty Freekin Scary
Monsters At Work
SuperKitties
Primos
Hamster And Gretel
Marvel's Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur
Hailey's On It
X-Men '97'
Kiff
Iwájú
Hailey's On It
Pupstruction

Paramount+, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon and Nick Jr:

HexVet
Dora The Explorer
Bossy Bear
Two South Park Films
Rock, Paper, Scissors
Max & the Midknights
Rubble & Crew
Hamsterdale
Zokie Sparkleby

Insidus Games:
- Johnny Bravo: Big Babe Adventure
- Lego Star Wars
- Trace On
- The Lion King
- Garfield 2: Royal Adventure
- Legend Of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse

CBeebies, BBC Kids, CBBC and BritBox:

Dentist
Ginger and the Vegesaurs
Lellobee City Farm
Vida the Vet

PBS Kids:

Work It Out Wombats!
Mashopolis
Alma's Way
Rosie's Rules

Others including DreamWorks, Peacock and eToonz:

Calliou
Krapopolis
Lil' Stompers
Lego Monkie Kid
Grimsburg
Koala Man
Team Mekbots Animal Rescue
Abominable and the Invisible City
Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight
The Boss Baby: Back in the Crib
Pinecone & Pony
Team Zenko Go
DreamWorks Dragons: The Nine Realms
The Croods: Family Tree
She-Ra And The Princesses Of Power
Doug Unplugs
Trollstopia
Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts
Wizards: Tales of Arcadia

Roundups #120: Lioness Returns For A New Season On M-Net, The Proud Family: Louder And Prouder Gets Season 2 Renewal And BritBox To Add Two New Doccies To Their Lineup

Another local drama gets a season 2 renewal

Shannon Esra returns to TV screens as Samantha Hugo when M-Net's (DStv 101) edgy thriller drama, Lioness, returns for its second season next year.

Lioness returns for season 2 on 16 January. It follows the story of a woman fresh out of jail for fraud and returning to a life even more fractured than when she left.

"After the cliffhanger finale of season 1, season 2 picks up with Adrian Hugo's (played by Jacques Bessenger) second wife (played by Carla Classen) in desperate search for her missing husband," a press statement reads. "The fiercely protective mother (as the titular "lioness") that she is, Samantha must shield her son Liam (played by Joshua Eady), no matter the cost."

DStv Flex:
- The Heartless coming soon to TLNovelas
- What to expect this January on The Home Channel?
- Reyka renewed for season 2 on M-Net
- What to expect this January on Qwest TV?
- Reviewing major changes coming soon to the SABC
- What to expect this December on TNT?

The Proud Family is back on Disney+

The Proud Family: Louder & Prouder fans rejoice as the Proud Family revival gets renewed for season 2!

But, before we delve deeper into what we know about the upcoming new season on Disney+, we have to mention that the series is unquestionably making its mark as it recently won the Outstanding Casting for An Animated Program award at the first Children’s & Family Emmy Awards.

Season 2 of The Proud Family: Louder & Prouder will hit the airwaves in February and is expected to feature a stellar list of new guest stars. According to JustJaredJr.com, here are some of the voices that we can expect to hear in upcoming new episodes and the names of the characters that they will portray.

- Gabrielle Union as Talia Rouge
- Chance the Rapper as Darrius St. Vil
- Normani as Giselle
- Leslie Odom Jr. as Kwame
- Anthony Anderson as Ray Ray
- Gymnasts Dominique Dawes, Gabby Douglas and - Laurie Hernandez as themselves
- Holly Robinson Peete as Dr. Lord
- Maury Povich as himself
- Storm Reid as Emily
- Courtney B. Vance as Merlin Kelly
- Liana Mendoza as Singing Judge

Regular Nick:
- Best & Bester coming soon to Nicktoons
- Moonbug Kids gets a dedicated cameo account
- January on Disney Channel
- January on Disney Junior
- January on Da Vinci Kids
- The concept of Cartoonito and Boomerang (review)

BritBox picks up two British actor documentaries

The Ghost of Richard Harris debuted in September 2022 at the Venice Film Festival. The actor is known to modern viewers best as the Original Dumbledore, but he had a long career before Harry Potter, including starring in the Oscar-nominated This Sporting Life and Camelot. However, he was even better known for his hard-partying ways, with a reputation for drinking and riotous behavior.

The documentary will feature his children, who followed in his footsteps to Hollywood, including Jared Harris (The Crown), Jamie Harris (Carnival Row), and director Damian Harris (Brave The Dark), as well as co-stars Vanessa Redgrave and Dick Cavett, and his late wife, Elizabeth Harris.

Peter O’Toole – Along the Sky Road to Aqaba only just debuted recently at the end of November 2022 in Spain. Directed by Jim Sheridan, who ironically also appears in The Ghost of Richard Harris, the documentary is structured into four acts, each introduced by a quote from or about the Lawrence of Arabia star to encapsulate that period of his life.

Nominated seven times for Best Actor, the new documentary covers everything about O'Toole from his self-belief to his alcoholism, using his own words, gleaned from 100s of hours of footage, allowing him to act as a narrator for his own life. It also includes interviews with O’Toole’s family, artists, actors, and directors, including Sir Kenneth Branagh, Brian Cox, Stephen Fry, Sir Anthony Hopkins, and Sir Derek Jacobi.

YouTube Premium:
- VH1 is making a comeback to international shores through BET
- DStv Streama bundles Disney+
- The Walt Disney Company to expand the reach of Star Channel
- Acorn TV shutting down in South Africa
- TelkomOne rebrands into SABC+
- New Spider-Man series coming to MGM+ and Amazon Prime Video

DStv Streama Upgrade Also Comes With Disney+

Now with upgrades that improve the viewing experience, DStv Streama will carry Disney+ content, bringing the best of international content right to its customers screens.

MultiChoice launched its streaming box, DStv Streama in October which featured content from DStv and other streaming services. The DStv Streama enables customers to stream their favourite DStv content from sport, entertainment, news and education and gives them access to a variety of other apps, such as Showmax, Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, YouTube kids and from today, Disney+.

MultiChoice South Africa CEO Nyiko Shiburi says that the DStv Streama upgrade will seek to offer seamless viewing of entertainment content to customers, all in one place. “The DStv Streama upgrade demonstrates our commitment to giving our customers not only more value, more choices and more convenience, but a great viewing experience filled with all of their favourite content,” he says.

Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for some of the world’s most loved stories alongside an ever-growing collection of exclusive originals, including feature-length films, documentaries, live-action and animated series, and short-form content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, as well as general entertainment content brand Star, featuring the latest from 20th Century Studios, Disney Television Studios, FX, Searchlight Pictures, and more.

DStv Streama offers user-friendly menus that allow customers to access a variety of apps and streaming services with one remote. It does not require a DStv dish and infrastructure installation - just a fast, stable internet connection to unlock a world of entertainment.

The Simpsons: A Look At Proposed Spinoffs That Never Got Time Of Day

When The Simpsons debuted 35 years ago as a series of shorts on The Tracey Ullman Show, it was hard to expect that it would become one of the most successful and longest-running franchises in movie and TV history. While The Simpsons spun off from (and quickly eclipsed) The Tracey Ullman Show, it seems a little odd that, given the show’s rampant popularity, we have yet to see a spin-off from The Simpsons, itself. The show has occasionally mocked the concept of TV spin-offs – most notably in the Troy McClure-hosted “Simpsons Spin-Off Showcase” – but that doesn’t mean Fox and the Simpsons creative team haven’t attempted to use the show as a springboard to launch another series. Let’s take a look now at some proposed spin-offs of The Simpsons, all of which sound infinitely better than The Cleveland Show.

A Krusty the Clown Series (1994)

One of the first side characters the Simpsons writers fleshed out was Krusty the Clown, so it makes perfect sense that he was the first one Matt Groening tried to develop a series around. With The Simpsons at its creative zenith as well as the peak of its cultural relevance in the 90s, it would have been the perfect time to launch a second series, but the plans for the Krusty show sound a little out there. Groening wanted it to be a live-action series starring Dan Castellaneta, who voices Krusty, Homer, and a solid 1/3 of Springfield’s male residents, as Krusty the Clown. Matt Groening, with King of Queens creator Michael Weithorn, wrote a pilot script about Krusty moving to L.A. to host a talk show. Several visual jokes that seemed a better fit for animation caused trouble with the network. Here’s Groening describing the difficulties:

“We had this running joke in the script that Krusty was living in a house on stilts and there were beavers gnawing their way through the stilts. But somebody at the network pointed out how expensive it was to hire trained beavers – and an equally prohibitive cost would be to get mechanical beavers – so I said, ‘If we animated this, we wouldn’t be having this discussion.’”

Matt Groening and Fox then began to work on an animated Krusty spin-off, but contract negotiations stalled, and Groening moved on to developing Futurama, a series that does not require the use of beavers – mechanical or trained.

Tales from Springfield (1996)

The greatest strength of The Simpsons has always been its deep bench of supporting characters. While many of these tertiary Springfieldians seem like broad cartoonish characters on the outside, they’re often revealed to be rich, three-dimensional figures underneath who are capable of carrying their own episodes of the show. After the success of the 1996 episode “22 Short Films About Springfield,” an episode composed of nearly two dozen vignettes centering on the show’s recurring characters, the writers began batting around the idea of developing a new series following these lesser-known Springfieldians. Tales from Springfield would have told three different short stories each week, focusing on secondary characters and occasionally telling stories about the Simpsons family members’ past and future.

Matt Groening concluded that the show didn’t have enough writers to script two simultaneous series, so the idea was shelved. The Simpsons has enough wonderful recurring characters to fill several additional series, and this seems like it would have been a logical and worthwhile spin-off at the time, but it wasn’t meant to be.

A live-action Troy McClure movie (mid-90s)

Prior to his tragic death, Phil Hartman, who voiced recurring Simpsons characters Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz, amongst others, expressed an interest in starring in a live-action film based on McClure. While Matt Groening has said that this was only an idea and no script was ever written, several of the writers were fond of Hartman’s idea. While the Krusty spin-off seems a little harder to pull off, Phil Hartman has proven he’s adept at playing smug, superficial guys like McClure in live-action roles, and it’s a shame we never got to see him play Troy McClure in non-animated form.

Credits: Bradford Evans

Roundups #114: Spider-Man Spin-Off Silk: Spider-Society Greenlit By MGM+ And Amazon Prime Video, Ultra Violet And Black Scorpion Cancelled On Disney Channel After One Season And Looney Tunes Cartoons Cancelled On Cartoon Network And HBO Max

The Spiderverse continues its expansion

Superheros are taking the television world by storm, and Amazon Prime Video is taking this opportunity to get in on all the action. The first confirmed Spider-Man spinoff will be Silk: Spider Society, but it won't be the only one according to Sony.

For those who remember, Sony and Disney didn't see eye to eye when it came to the Tom Holland Spider-Man movies. After the second installment, Spider-Man: Far From Home, Sony and Disney had a hard time coming to a financial deal, leaving many to wonder if the third film, Spider-Man: No Way Home, was going to happen. However, the two companies came to terms with the fact that Sony will hold the screen rights to all of the Spider-Man films and characters, which is now allowing Sony to jump in on creating spin-offs of its own.

Amazon Studios and Sony will introduce audiences to Cindy Moon, a.k.a. Silk. While no one is sure how many shows fans are getting, one is Silk: Spider Society, which will be the first to kick off the new Spider-Man universe when it debuts on MGM Plus domestically before launching globally on Prime Video. There is no word on how exactly the series will portray Moon's backstory, but there should be some excitement around The Walking Dead showrunner Angela Kang, who will also be heading Silk: Spider Society. Kang will also serve as executive producer alongside Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse producers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, with whom she developed the series.

Ultra Violet And Black Scorpion Cancelled

Unfortunately, it’s not all confetti and cake. Villains of Valley View may live to fight another day, but its superhero block mate, Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion is heading to early retirement. Disney Channel decided to end the series after only 1 season. It’s a disappointing ending for yet another Latina superhero this year. First Leslie Grace’s Batgirl, now Scarlett Estevez’s Violet? This year has actually been marked by a concerning amount of Hispanic-led series cancelled too soon.

First announced way back in January 2020, it was intended to star professional wrestler Blue Demon Jr. and have a heavier luchadore / profesional wrestling influence. The pandemic and other behind the scenes issues resulted in a long road to get the show off the ground. The first major issue is that the pandemic left the series from receiving full greenlight until January 2021, one year later. At that time, Scarlett Estevez joined the series as Ultra Violet.

For reasons unknown, Blue Demon Jr. departed the series along with the original producer and it was retooled as Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion. In August 2021, J.R. Villarreal tagged in as Black Scorpion to replace Blue Demon and the series finally filmed. Disney could have aired a special sneak peek of the pilot during Hispanic Heritage month in 2021, but did not. When it finally premiered this past June, it seemed that they’d been holding it back for a few months already. Then, it felt like they were burning it off when they dropped the entire summer’s set of 10 episodes on Disney+ right away. The television ratings certainly suffered from this decision.

Looney Tunes Cartoons is officially on its way out, this is the version of the series that premiered on HBO Max

Developed by Pete Brown (Creator of Uncle Grandpa), he wanted Looney Tunes Cartoons to go back to the basics. These didn't go out of the way to reinvent Bugs Bunny and everyone else. Instead, it was more of an update to the 1940s Looney Tunes era which isn't a bad thing.

These characters are timeless, thrown in any time period and setting and maybe change a few things here and there it's still fun to watch.

While the reception of this show is positive, Pete revealed something on Instagram:

Today was a final mix of the 209 Looney Tunes Cartoons shorts we created. Congratulations to all involved. That's all folks.

The end of this version doesn't mean the end of the franchise as Looney Tunes has got a ton of upcoming projects such as Bugs Bunny Builders, Tiny Toons Looniversity, Tweety Mysteries and The Day The Earth Blew Up.

Further Seasons Of Doctor Who To Stream Exclusively On Disney+ By Late 2023

Under the landmark deal Disney+ will exclusively stream all upcoming seasons of the show outside of the U.K. and Ireland, where they will remain with the BBC. The announcement, which had been rumored for months, was made by incoming Doctor Who Ncuti Gatwa during an appearance on Live with Kelly and Ryan, with the first episodes from the new partnership expected in November 2023 to coincide with its 60th anniversary.

“I love this show, and this is the best of both worlds – with the vision and joy of the BBC and Disney+ together we can launch the TARDIS all around the planet, reaching a new generation of fans while keeping our traditional home firmly on the BBC in the UK,” said Russell T. Davies, the returning showrunner who succeeded Chris Chibnall.

“For Doctor Who to have the backing of two of the most innovative and respected media organizations in the world is a testament to the unique drive and vision at the heart of this show,” said Jane Tranter & Julie Gardner, executive producers and co-founders at Bad Wolf, who are co-producing with the BBC. “Bad Wolf are beyond delighted to be once again working with the genius that is Russell T Davies and, with the exciting new partnership between the BBC and Disney, we can together reach to even greater heights, producing from Wolf Studios Wales ambitious stories through time and space for audiences across the globe.”

Added Alisa Bowen, president of Disney+: “We’re excited by the opportunity to bring new seasons of this beloved franchise exclusively to Disney+ and introduce the show to the next generation of audiencesin more than 150 markets around the world. The series is a perfect addition to our ever-growing catalog of global content that continues to make Disney+ the home for exceptional storytelling.”

Although Gatwa official run as the 15th Doctor will kick of in late 2023, before then David Tennant will return to the TARDIS for three specials.

“We’re delighted to join forces with a partner who shares our vision and ambition for one of the most iconic shows in British TV history,” said Rebecca Glashow, CEO, Global Distribution, BBC Studios. “This is great news for everyone who loves Doctor Who, and for all the new fans we will reach through this powerful partnership.”

Roundups #102: Trevor Noah To Exit The Daily Show, Hugh Jackman To Return As Wolverine In Deadpool And Keanu Reeves No Longer Part Of Upcoming Series Devil In The White City

Trevor Noah is exiting The Daily Show

It’s the end of the road for Trevor Noah’s tenure at Comedy Central’s The Daily Show. The comedian announced during the September 29 episode that, after seven years as host spanning back to 2015 when he took over for Jon Stewart, he’s decided to move on.

After noting that he recently reflected on fans’ support for the show on an international level, Noah told the studio audience that he found himself “filled with gratitude for the journey. It’s been absolutely amazing. It’s something that I never expected.” He went on: “And I found myself thinking throughout the time, you know, everything we’ve gone through: the Trump presidency, the pandemic, just the journey of, you know … the more pandemic. And I realized that, after seven years, my time is up. But in the most beautiful way. Honestly, I’ve loved hosting the show. It’s been one of my greatest challenges. It’s been one of my greatest joys. I have loved trying to figure out how to make people laugh, even when the stories are particularly shitty on the worst days. We’ve laughed together, we’ve cried together. But after seven years, I feel like it’s time.”

A Comedy Central spokesperson released a statement on Noah’s departure after his announcement was posted to Twitter: “We are grateful to Trevor for our amazing partnership over the past seven years. With no timetable for his departure, we’re working together on next steps. As we look ahead, we’re excited for the next chapter in the 25+ year history of The Daily Show as it continues to redefine culture through sharp and hilarious social commentary, helping audiences make sense of the world around them.”

Hugh Jackman returns to the MCU

The Wolverine is back as Hugh Jackman gets back in the gym to once again sport the muscular frame of the beloved X-Men character. It has now been confirmed that Jackman will reprise the role of Wolverine in the upcoming Deadpool 3, an announcement that came as a huge surprise to Marvel fans.

Hugh Jackman first played the role of Wolverine over two decades ago in the first X-Men outing. While the actor was praised for his portrayal, Jackman has since revealed that he only had a few weeks to prepare. Hence, why his physique is far less impressive than it would eventually become. Jackman has now played the role multiple times, each time putting in the hard work to bring the Marvel superhero to life in live action, with the actor often topping the list of the greatest physical transformations.

While the plot of Deadpool 3 is currently unconfirmed, it is looking more and more likely that the threequel will follow Wolverine and Deadpool embarking on a road trip. Something that Ryan Reynolds seemingly revealed last year.

Keanu Reeves no longer making his first major American television role debut

Keanu Reeves will no longer star in the Hulu series adaptation of “The Devil in the White City,” Variety has learned exclusively from sources.

The show was first put into development at Hulu in 2019 and was officially ordered to series at the streamer in August 2022. It is based on the book of the same name by by Erik Larson.

Per the official logline, the show “tells the true story of Daniel H. Burnham, a demanding but visionary architect who races to make his mark on history with the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, and Dr. H. H. Holmes, America’s first modern serial killer and the man behind the notorious ‘Murder Castle’ built in the Fair’s shadow.”

 

International: Disney To Close A Further 3 Channels This Month

Last year, The Walt Disney Company unveiled plans to close a further 100 channels globally as more content goes onto the streaming service, Disney+. With MultiChoice carrying parts of these channels through 2024 means viewers have more time to unwind until the same occurs as seen in these regions.

Later in the year, it was reported that FOX in Turkey the only International feed to offer original content part of which has been supplied to e.tv such as Dokter Ali (Mucize Doctor), Doodsondes (Yasak Elma) and DisComplicated (Sen Çal Kapımı) will go off air by 2023.

Ahead of its demise, FOX Crime will suffer the chop by the end of this month which kind of coincides with FOX and FOX Life's termination in Africa as both were shuttered within the same period just years apart from each other.

In Italy, Sky was able to confirm that both National Geographic and National Geographic Wild will also go dark by the end of the month not only on their platforms but the whole region. This comes as the operator in that region just like DStv has seen a loss in channels.

Although it's not the distributor's fault when a supplier stops supplying a certain product. It is however their job to keep viewers entertained although the sad part about that is the alternatives will be nothing like these channels and viewers only hope at this point is Disney+.

With several households struggling to get fibre even a platform like DStv and Sky. Viewers will have to make due with what's already available to them.

Roundups #94: Wind In The Willows Adaptation Coming Soon To Cartoonito, Hocus Pocus Streaming September 30th On Disney+ And The Real Housewives Expands To Nairobi And Pretoria

More preschool coming soon to Cartoonito

Warner Bros. Discovery EMEA has acquired London-based HoHo Entertainment’s preschool series Toad and Friends, which is based on Kenneth Grahame’s kidlit classic The Wind in the Willows.

The CG animated series (52 x 11 minutes) spins new riverside adventures for book characters Mole, Ratty and Toad, focusing on the value of community, friendship and respect. It’s set to launch in 2023 in Warner Bros. Discovery’s Cartoonito block across the EMEA region, as well as on HBO Max’s European service.

Toad and Friends is animated by Scotland’s Wild Child Animation and directed by Tim Searle (Danger Mouse). Creative Scotland and the European Union’s MEDIA program also participated in the show’s development.

Hocus Pocus 2 streaming this month on Disney+

The trailer and teaser art for the highly anticipated Disney+ Original movie Hocus Pocus 2, reuniting Disney Legend Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, were released today. The live-action, long awaited sequel to the perennial Halloween classic, which brings back the delightfully wicked Sanderson sisters for more comedic mayhem, will debut on Disney+ on September 30.

It’s been 29 years since someone lit the Black Flame Candle and resurrected the 17th century sisters, and they are looking for revenge. Now it is up to three high school students to stop the ravenous witches from wreaking a new kind of havoc on Salem before dawn on All Hallow’s Eve.

Hocus Pocus 2 also stars Sam Richardson, Doug Jones, Hannah Waddingham, Whitney Peak, Belissa Escobedo, Lilia Buckingham, Froyan Gutierrez, and Tony Hale. The film is directed by Anne Fletcher and produced by Lynn Harris, with Ralph Winter, David Kirschner, and Adam Shankman serving as executive producers.

More housewives for DStv

Filming has begun on the first Afrikaans version of the reality show Die Real Housewives van Pretoria (RHOP), produced by Provoco, making the new 13-episode reality series the 4th South African version. The show will premiere on Thursday, 13 October on kykNET (DStv 144) and simulcast on Showmax.

Next month filming will start on The Real Housewives of Nairobi produced by Young Rich Television, reports Variety. DStv subscribers in East Africa will get their first version set in Kenya, following The Real Housewives of Lagos, which made its debut on Showmax in Nigeria earlier this year.

"We are so proud to build on the continued success of The Real Housewives franchises across Africa," says Ana Langenberg, senior vice president for format sales and productions at NBCUniversal Formats.

Team Sayari Revealed As Title For National Geographic Kids Africa Programme

Following field production commencing earlier this year, as well as the announcement of the local hosts, The Walt Disney Company Africa, together with its project partners, National Geographic, the US Department of State, the US Agency for International Development (Usaid) and WildlifeDirect have today revealed both the title and the set of the highly anticipated National Geographic Kids programme.

Inspired by the programme’s aim to motivate lasting, impactful behavioural change in young viewers across the continent and create the next generation of environmental conservation leaders, the programme will be titled Team Sayari. Incorporating the Swahili term for ‘planet’, the title embodies the programme’s goal – to provide viewers with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to conserve and protect the natural world, in a fun way.

In the series, the young presenters will visit the wild to meet African experts in five countries across the continent to explore, discover, learn about our environmental challenges, and be inspired to reduce their impact, protect and restore nature.

Filming has also commenced in a custom-built set in Nairobi, the Sayari basecamp. A first-of-its-kind in Kenya, the set embodies childhood imagination and adventure with a tree house-inspired hideout that is locally built and designed, including African-inspired and nature-based motifs, coupled with elements of advanced technology. It comes complete with a mission control wall, a cosy chill area and a lively interview spot. The Sayari basecamp was produced almost entirely from recycled and upcycled materials, true to the ethos of the show.

The central feature is a gigantic tree, with a textured trunk named Funzi (derived from the Swahili word for learning) featuring interactive artificial intelligence technology and a DNA helix, and which imparts knowledge about the environment and challenges our young presenters. To impart a sense of movement, Funzi’s inner section spins slowly during interaction.

Wood panelling, leafy foliage and porthole-style windows complete the ambience of a hideaway nestled in a tree, high in the sky. Upholstery on the furniture, that was made from organic materials, features dual-level African print, which provides layers of texture and pops of colour. The set’s shelving is hand-crafted, adding an element of quirkiness to the design. A live-edge table where the markings of the tree have been preserved for a raw look, will be dressed uniquely per episode.

Marita Lucas and Shanah Manjeru on the Team Sayari set

At basecamp, Funzi gives the studio presenters, Mysha Hodson (13), Marita Lucas (12), Shanah Manjeru (14), Railey Mwai (10) and Adarsh Nagda (12) missions to complete, laying the foundation for the many adventures and fun throughout the episodes. It is also from this intriguing environment that they will link with other presenters from East, West and South Africa.

Team Sayari is the result of a collaborative effort between National Geographic, The Walt Disney Company Africa, Usaid, the US State Department and WildlifeDirect. The series, produced by local production company White Rhino Films aims to celebrate the environment and raise awareness of conservation and associated issues in a fun and relatable way, will air later this year on both National Geographic Wild and Disney Channel across Africa. There will also be engaging digital extensions on social media platforms that will allow viewers to further explore topics addressed in the series as well as an outreach programme that will extend the reach of the programme into countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

 

Roundups #89: Megan Thee Stallion Joins The Marvel Cinematic Universe, Selena Gomez Enters Negotiations For Working Girl Reboot, Scrapped HBO Max Series Drawing Interest Of Various Streamers

Megan Thee Stallion joins the cast of She-Hulk

Megan Thee Stallion is following up her role on Starz’s P-Valley with a cameo appearance in Marvel’s She-Hulk: Attorney At Law.

In an upcoming episode, she becomes involved in a legal case that is being handled by attorney Augustus “Pug” Pugliese, played by Josh Segarra. Segarra teased what’s ahead while chatting with Deadline on the red carpet of the show’s premiere.

“A gentleman is being catfished by somebody that lives in another universe, let’s say. Another world,” Segarra said before confirming Deadline’s teasing response that the catfisher is pretending to be a certain recording artist.

Selena Gomez might be joining another reboot

Selena Gomez and 20th Century Studios are partnering for a reboot of Working Girl.

Gomez is in talks to produce a remake of the 1988 comedy that starred Melanie Griffith as a Long Island woman who secretly takes over her boss’ job while she recovers from a broken leg. Harrison Ford and Sigourney Weaver also starred in the original film, which was directed by Mike Nichols and was a massive success, earning Oscar nominations and an impressive $100 million box office haul.

It is unclear if Gomez would also star in the project, which is eyeing a release on Hulu.

Batman is gaining traction

While Bruce Timm, Matt Reeves, and J.J. Abrams' Batman: Caped Crusader won't be coming to HBO Max, the animated series is reportedly very much alive and drawing interest from Apple, Hulu, Netflix, and more.

As reported by THR, Batman: Caped Crusader was one of six animated titled that was pulled from HBO Max's upcoming slate and will no longer be produced by the company. It was stated that these shows were not necessarily canceled, but instead would be shopped to other studios.

According to THR's sources, "it is believed that the various Warners divisions making the show and movies will make more money on the titles by selling them to other outlets than having them on Warners’ own streamer."

 

Roundups #88: The Good Doctor Getting A Female Led Spinoff, Young Justice Reportedly Not Moving Forward At HBO Max And King Kong Series In Development For Disney+

The Good Doctor spinoff in development

ABC is developing “The Good Lawyer,” a legal spinoff of the medical drama “The Good Doctor” which stars Freddie Highmore as Dr. Sean Murphy, a surgeon with autism.

“The Good Lawyer” will be introduced as a backdoor pilot during Season 6 of “The Good Doctor,” which is set to premiere in October. Sean finds himself in legal trouble and seeks the services of Joni, a twentysomething defense attorney who has OCD. Joni, relatively new to her law firm, is funny, eager, self-aware and anxious. She is a skilled lawyer and doesn’t want to be treated differently by others, though her OCD symptoms affect her personal and professional life. At one point, her firm tries to fire her, after which she is forced to threaten to sue for a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

One higher-up at the firm involved in the firing attempt is Janet, a highly-regarded attorney and partner at the firm who has represented Dr. Glassman (Richard Schiff) in several legal matters throughout the years. Glassman turns to her to represent his protégé Shaun, and when Shaun chooses Joni to represent him, the cynical Janet is forced to reconsider her assessment of Joni.

Young Justice cancelled on HBO Max

It appears that Young Justice has been canceled for the second time in its run as HBO Max is reportedly not bringing the beloved DC animated series back for season 5. August has been a turbulent month for Warner Bros. Discovery following their massive merger earlier this year. The studio made major headlines with the shocking decision to cancel HBO Max's Batgirl movie, starring Leslie Grace as Barbara Gordon. Despite principal photography having completed in late March, Warner Bros. Discovery shelved Batgirl while also revealing plans to have HBO Max and Discovery Plus become one streaming service next summer.

With the shake-up going on, it was also revealed during the Warner Bros. Discovery earnings call that animation would be part of a "restructuring" for the new version of the studio. This put the popular series Young Justice in question regarding if it will get a season 5. Despite having already finished airing season 4, subtitled Young Justice: Phantoms, HBO Max, or Warner Bros. TV have yet to announce a renewal for the series, which originally began on Cartoon Network. Concerns have been high ever since Young Justice showrunner Greg Weisman confirmed on social media that they have yet to learn about a potential season 5.

King Kong is coming to Disney+

An iconic monster is headed to Disney+. Disney Branded Television is in very early development on King Kong (working title), a series for Disney+ tracking the original story of the famous ape. Deals have just closed for the project, from James Wan’s Atomic Monster, which would mark the first live-action series set in the Kong universe.

Written by Paper Girls creator Stephany Folsom, King Kong is a serialized action-adventure drama that brings the classic monster story into the modern age, with a return to Skull Island and the dawn of a new Kong. The series will explore the mythology of King Kong’s origin story and the supernatural mysteries of his home based on IP from Merian C. Cooper’s original books and the new King Kong novelizations by Joe DeVito.

A live-action series, King Kong Skull Island, was in development at MarVista Entertainment and IM Global Television five years ago with a different creative team, also based on Cooper’s King Kong and DeVito ArtWorks’ Skull Island, with Festa executive producing. It did not come to fruition.

No There Are No Plans For 12 Seasons Of Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir

Last month, there was a lot of misinformation regarding Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Cat Noir. There was this conference that went on and was in French so we had English translators who were trying to translate stuff and began spreading things out of context so I want to clear that up.

Now the big one that has been going around is that they'll be 12 seasons where they have planned 12 seasons but that's just not true. Now there are 7 seasons confirmed for Miraculous and you have a team of writers who were excited that they thought up some ideas for further seasons.

They weren't official ideas it was something that they've been brainstorming so no there are no 12 seasons, they aren't planning on having 12 seasons, there's currently 7 seasons and if all goes well they'll probably extend it if they have things to make so that's that.

Next it was announced that the next season would be a musical and I don't remember hearing something like that and now it's been confirmed that is not a thing. There will be songs but not for a type of full on musical thing.

Another thing is that there's people who think they'll be 3 active sentimonsters again that was taken out of context. They were just saying that there was 3 active sentimonsters in season 4. Of course, we have been seeing a lot of them so I wouldn't be surprised if there was more come season 5.

Another topic that was addressed was Mrs. Bustiers' husband now there was a mistake in the question and yes we will get to see Mrs. Bustiers' partner implying that she might be in a relationship or attracted to people of a similar sex.

There a couple of unmentioned topics such as Gabriel's presence in season 5 which we'll definitely get on top of that some Brazil project which is still underway.

Roundups #17: DreamWorks Animation Preps Up Four New Series, Obi-Wan Streaming May 22nd On Disney+, WWE Replaces 205 Live With NXT: Level Up And New Documentary Film KungFu Stuntmen Coming Soon To KIX Africa

DreamWorks Junior expands with two animated series on Netflix

Based on the book of the same name, Not Quite Narwhal dives into the daily adventures of a narwhal named Kelp, who discovers he’s part-unicorn and must learn to navigate life in the sea and on land.

Dew Drop Diaries pulls back the curtain
on a group of pint-sized fairies who have been assigned to help city-dwelling human families with tasks such as organizing toys and placing lost teeth under pillows for the Tooth Fairy.

Both slated to air in 2023.

Source: Kidscreen

Also read: 
- Paramount+ and Nickelodeon expand kids slate
- Possible channel closures from Warner Bros. Discovery
- ViacomCBS rebrands into Paramount
- Warner Bros. Discovery could terminate these channels
- NCIS: Los Angeles might get cancelled
- Cartoonito launches on Boomerang across Europe possibly as a trial run before scrapping the channel
- Could ESPN close alongside National Geographic and Disney Channel?
- February on ViacomCBS Africa channels
- February on TNT, Cartoon Network and Boomerang

Peacock greenlits Megamind and Abominable TV series

Megamind’s Guide To Defending Your City, follow-up to the 2010 film will see Megamind going from “being a supervillain and the scourge of Metro City to a superhero who’s learning on the job. He’ll be bringing the audience along for the ride, as Megamind’s trusty brainbots will be recording everything, making him the world’s first superhero influencer.”

Abominable and the Invisible City, a comedy adventure series that will continue the story of DreamWorks Animation’s film. “Through Everest, the yeti, Yi, Jin, and Peng know that there’s a whole magical world out there. “When they discover that their surroundings are teeming with magical creatures in need of their help, the kids will set out on extraordinary and heartfelt adventures throughout their city and beyond.

Source: Deadline

Disney+ Limited Series Obi-Wan Kenobi to Debut on May 25th

The series begins with Obi-Wan Kenobi watching over Luke Skywalker on Tatooine, ten years after the events of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005), and takes the character on a "rollicking adventure".

The new Disney+ limited series from Lucasfilm, will debut exclusively on Disney+ May 25. The series stars Ewan McGregor, reprising his role as the iconic Jedi Master.

NXT is getting a spinoff, kills 205 Live

WWE has canceled 205 Live currently seen on SuperSport and the WWE Channel and will air a new series in its place called “NXT: Level Up.” According to reports, WWE will tape NXT: Level Up at the WWE Performance Center and the new show is expected to be 60 minutes long.

WWE 205 Live premiered on November 2016 on WWE Network and it primarily featured talent from the NXT and NXT UK brands and originally focused on the WWE Cruiserweight division. More recently, WWE began to phase out the weight limit originally in place for the show, and the Cruiserweight Championship was unified with the NXT North American Championship.

SuperSport's WWE Channel is available on DStv channel 128 and a ray of WWE content can be viewed on other SuperSport channels.

KIX continue their martial arts journey with a brand new documentary

The documentary features such martial arts legends as Sammo Hung, Jackie Chan, Donnie Yen, action choreographer Yuen Woo-ping, filmmakers Tsui Hark and Andrew Lau, along with a number of other stuntmen in the industry.

“Many legendary stuntmen live hard lives and many are unknown. That’s why I decided to make a documentary film in tribute to their continued efforts and never-yielding spirit,” said director Wei.

KIX is available on DStv channel 114

Also read:
- Baby TV could be on the chopping block
- Curiosity Channel to launch St Patrick's Day special
- Disney closing multiple channels in Latin America
- Why VH1 Classic was terminated on DStv?
- In March, E! will also be hosting the Oscars live from the red carpet and launch the cover bands
- Could G4 launch on DStv perhaps to replace a channel like Ginx Esports TV?
- Paramount+ greenlit Knuckle TV series and Seal Team movie
- Coroner and Tell Me Your Secrets coming soon to Universal TV
- AEW: Battle Of The Belts launches on TNT

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Roundups #79: Eragon Live-Action Series In Development For Disney+, iCarly Renewed On Paramount+ For Season 3 And Upcoming Disney Channel Series Hamster And Gretel Gets Season 2 Renewal

Eragon coming to Disney+

Disney+ is developing a live-action television series adaptation of Eragon, based on Christopher Paolini’s popular YA book series The Inheritance Cycle. Eragon is the first book in the series.

Paolini will co-write the series and executive produce with Bert Salke executive producing via his Co-Lab 21 banner as part of his deal with Disney Television Studios. 20th Television is the studio.

In the series adaptation, a teenage boy becomes magically joined with a newly-hatched dragon. Together, they must learn what it means to be dragon and Rider as they fight in the resistance against a tyrannical king.

iCarly remains active

iCarly fans can breathe easy: It appears the major Creddie cliffhanger at the end of Season 2 will be resolved. Paramount+ said Wednesday that it has renewed the hit revival series iCarly for a third season. Production will get underway later this year for a 2023 premiere on Paramount+.

The original iCarly series, produced by Nickelodeon, ran from 2007-2012. Starring Cosgrove, Trainor, Kress and Jennette McCurdy, it followed a group of best friends creating a webcast while grappling with everyday problems and adventures. During its original run, iCarly became a pop-culture staple and regularly broke viewership records among audiences of all ages.

iCarly is produced by Nickelodeon Studios and is executive produced by Ali Schouten-Seeks (Young & Hungry, Diary of a Future President) and Cosgrove, with Schouten serving as showrunner. Trainor, Kress and Alissa Vradenburg (The Simple Life) serve as producers.

Upcoming show gets season 2 on Disney Channel

Hamster And Gretel is the upcoming new cartoon on Disney Afternoon Mornings on Disney Channel along with Big City Greens,Amphibia,The Owl House Specials,The Ghost And Molly McGee and Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur and we have more exclusive news

3 months ago series writter Jim Bernstein confirmed that the series will debut in 2022 after that we got contacted by Jim and he told us thats the expected date for the crew to air, but the month and day is still to be decided by Disney.

Yesterday Dan Povenmire answered some questions on Tik Tok where he answered that the series is coming in 2022, however month is still to be decided, our best bet is Fall 2022 like The Ghost And Molly McGee with a Season 2 Renewal, Chibi Tiny Tales, Soundtrack, Guest Star List and Disney Channel FanShop Merch.

Roundups #76: The Boys Spinoff Gets Official Title, The Little Mermaid Preschool Series Is Rumoured To Be In Development And Nintendo To Launch Animation Studio

Gen Z is currently underway on Amazon Prime Video

Get your superhero suits ready and head on down to Vought International because Amazon’s college-based spinoff of “The Boys” has an official title: “Gen V.”

The title is a clever reference to today’s youthful Gen Z and the show’s super power-giving chemical known as compound V. Cast members announced the title in a new video shared on social media.

Set at America’s only college exclusively for young-adult superheroes (owned and operated by Vought International, of course), “Gen V” is “an irreverent, R-rated series that explores the lives of hormonal, competitive Supes as they put their physical, sexual and moral boundaries to the test, competing for the best contracts in the best cities,” per Prime Video. It’s part college show, part “Hunger Games” with the same raunchy satirical tone of “The Boys.”

 

The Little Mermaid is preschool

According to some new trademarks that have been listed, Disney Junior is also working on a new project, called “Ariel”, which is likely to be a new version of “The Little Mermaid” for pre-school ages.

There are a number of trademarks being applied for, including for entertainment services; education services; distribution services and production services.  In addition to trademarks for a large number of merchandise items, clothing, footwear and headwear.  In addition to paper products and non-medicated cosmetics.

Disney hasn’t officially announced that it is developing a new pre-school series, “Disney Junior Ariel”, but with the new live-action film and it being over 30 years since the original animated film was released, these trademark listings do indicate that Disney is planning a major new campaign of merchandise and entertainment services.

 

Nintendo becomes an animation studio

Nintendo has announced the acquisition of Dynamo Pictures, an animation studio in Tokyo that collaborated on several animated Pikmin shorts that premiered on the Nintendo 3DS. Renamed Nintendo Pictures, the studio will continue to work on the “development of visual content utilizing Nintendo IP,” according to the company’s press release.

“Nintendo has decided to acquire 100 percent of the outstanding shares (excluding treasury shares) of Dynamo Pictures and make it a wholly owned subsidiary to strengthen the planning and production structure of visual content in the Nintendo group.”

They have a working relationship with Illumination, the studio behind the popular Minions franchise. The animated Chris Pratt-led Super Mario Bros. movie spawned from that partnership will release in 2023, barring any future delays.