The Starz network, a Lionsgate company (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), has greenlit the half-hour comedy series Now Apocalypse created and executive-produced by Gregg Araki (Kaboom, Mysterious Skin). Araki will co-write and direct all 10 half-hour episodes of the sexy, vibrant and fast-moving series that has a flipside of mythic, dreamlike creepiness.
This surreal, coming-of-age comedy series follows Ulysses and his friends Carly, Ford and Severine, who are on various quests pursing love, sex and fame. Now Apocalypse explores identity, sexuality and artistry, while navigating the strange and oftentimes bewildering city of Los Angeles. Between sexual and romantic dating app adventures, Ulysses grows increasingly troubled as foreboding premonitory dreams make him wonder–is some kind of dark and monstrous conspiracy going on, or is he just smoking too much weed?
“Gregg brings an incredibly unique and adventurous story to the Starz brand and we cannot wait for the world to meet the bold, sexy and fun characters of Now Apocalypse,” said Carmi Zlotnik, president of programming for Starz. “It’s exciting to bring diverse and compelling storytelling to the screen as part of Starz’s ongoing programming strategy to provide premium content to reach underserved audiences.”
“If this isn’t the craziest thing I’ve ever read, it’s tied for first,” said Oscar® and Emmy® Award-winning executive producer Steven Soderbergh (Logan Lucky, The Knick). “We will not be responsible for people’s heads splitting in half when they see it.”
Executive producing with Araki and Soderbergh is Gregory Jacobs (Magic Mike XXL, Red Oaks). All 10 half-hour episodes are co-written by author and Vogue.com sex columnist, Karley Sciortino, creator and host of Slutever on Viceland. Sciortino also serves as a consulting producer.
Starz retains all domestic multiplatform pay TV and SVOD rights to the series. Lionsgate retains all international and domestic distribution and home entertainment rights.
SVP of original programming Ken Segna and manager of original programming Kathleen Clifford are the Starz executives in charge of Now Apocalypse.
Actor Tony Todd, known for his role in “Candyman” and other films, dies at 69
Actor Tony Todd, known for his haunting portrayal of a killer in the horror film "Candyman" and roles in many other films and television shows, has died, his longtime manager confirmed. He was 69.
Todd died Wednesday at his home in the Los Angeles area, his manager Jeffrey Goldberg said in a statement to The Associated Press.
"I had the privilege to have Tony as my friend and client for over 30 years and I will miss that amazing man every single day," Goldberg said.
"Known worldwide for his towering presence, both physically and artistically, Tony leaves behind an indelible legacy in film, theater, and the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him," Goldberg's management company said in announcing the death.
"We bid farewell to Tony Todd, a giant of cinema and a beloved soul whose impact on our lives and the world of film will never be forgotten," it said.
Todd's film resume included roles in award-winning movies such as the Oliver Stone-directed classic "Platoon," released in 1986.
Todd was also known for his role in the 2000 horror film "Final Destination" and its sequel in 2003. The film company New Line Cinema mourned Todd's death on social media over the weekend:
"The industry has lost a legend," the company said on Instagram. "We have lost a cherished friend. Rest in peace, Tony."
In "Candyman," released in 1992 and followed by a remake in 2021, Todd played a menacing killer who had a hook on one arm. The premise is built around an urban myth that Candyman roamed the Cabrini-Green housing projects in Chicago and could be summoned by saying his name five times in front of a mirror. The 2021 movie explores societal problems such as racism and police brutality.
Todd's television career... Read More