Bay Area Comedy Festival Back Again In Full Swing!

It's about that time again for the comedy festival season, and The Bay Area Black Comedy Competition & Festival is back again. The festival is the longest running urban comedy festival and was established in 1986 to provide a Bay Area-based showcase for comedians of color from all over the United States and across the world.

For over two decades the Competition has been at the vanguard of the Black/urban comedy movement, greatly contributing to the career development of many of its stars and the construction of many of its brick and mortar and 'clicks and mortar' venues. According to event founder and executive Producer Tony Spires, the Competition was born out of a need for, "Comedic Affirmative Action."

The Competition's ongoing mission is to create an environment which provides our comedians with equal access to empowering opportunities which enable them to demonstrate their unique talents to the entertainment industry and the general public and to raise worldwide conscientiousness of the validity and viability of the indigenous American art form known as Black Comedy. Through the years the BABCCF has emerged from its grassroots-based genesis to become the largest and longest-running live, urban comedy showcase in the country. Please join us as we take comedy to the next level. The Bay Area Black Comedy Competition & Festival, "Where the Laughter Never Ends!"

For more info on the festival check out http://www.blackcomedycompetition.com/cc09home.html

Is Chris Rock A Candidate For Replacing Conan On The Tonite Show?

About two weeks ago rumors started flying around the internet about a new replacement for Conan O'Brien over at NBC thanks to his very dismal numbers since his transition to The Tonight Show (it has lost 52 percent of its viewership since big red took over and the November ratings will be the show's lowest in 15 years).

The first big rumor we heard from our sources over at NBC Universal’s lot then was that NBC has their eyes on replacing him with none other than Jerry Seinfeld, who is on everyone’s wish list.

But as of several days ago we heard from a couple of other sources that NBC is already making plans for someone else if Seinfeld doesn’t agree to terms with the network- and it’s a long shot that he won’t agree because NBC loves Seinfeld and they want him bad. But just in case he doesn’t work out there is talks for someone else who can make just as big of a splash.

Who are the executives TALKING about trying to get? We hear it’s none other than comedian Chris Rock.

Here’s why that makes sense to us; Word has been out there for several years that Chris Rock has had thoughts about getting back into television since his days at HBO with the Chris Rock Show, and since Everybody Hates Chris is now over, Rock doesn’t have a TV vehicle on the air. Personally, it’s a stretch to see him doing this as it’s a grueling schedule, but it would not be too farfetched for Rock to do so.

Now we are not going to get too excited about this because we doubt Seinfeld will pass up the opportunity, but it would be great to see Rock in that famed seat, wouldn’t it? What do you think?

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

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Mo'Nique Seems To Be Shunning Press Again For Precious

Several weeks ago we would have told you that Mo’Nique was a “shoo-in’ to get an Academy Award nomination for her work in Precious, and she was going to walk away with the Award and be the 2nd African American comedic actress since Whoopi Goldberg’s performance in Ghost to do so for Best Supporting Actress. Now, after today’s news and rumors floating around we are not so sure of anything.

What are we talking about? Well, according to numerous reports and sources, MoNique has decided to skip the New York Film Critics Awards next month, which is a great press opportunity for every actor associated with any film right before Awards season and during voting season. It is also a pivotal stop for those trying to win ANY award during award season because those NY Critics have a lot of “pull” and more towards the votes that are cast. Anyway, the group was going to give her an award for her excellent work in Precious, and now director Lee Daniels will accept on her behalf.

Why is Mo’Nique not going? Well, maybe it’s because she lives in Atlanta and has no one to look out for her brand new twins, and maybe it will take her away from her new day-time job, which is hosting her TV show on BET. We are not sure. Maybe she doesn’t feel the trip is going to help her financially.

Here are the facts that we do know; word went around the industry that Mo'Nique wouldn’t do publicity for the movie Precious unless she was paid. According to sources she demanded cash in envelopes, not just for her makeup artists and stylists, but for herself. For some reason, she thought these were paid appearances. Everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Lee Daniels tried to set her straight. But she missed the Cannes, Toronto and New York Film Festivals because of it and also she’s also gone through several publicists. We also know that Mo'Nique doesn’t have that many SERIOUS acting credits under her belt, but she does have some comedies. But how many of those comedies are going to lead her to an Oscar? Before Precious, 2005’s films Shadowboxer and Domino was her last real serious roles.

Anyway, Mo’Nique stated on her show for folks to see her performance on the film and to judge her on that alone. Too bad Academy voters don’t think like this.

We think that snubbing the NYFCC is a plan she should reconsider. We feel she doesn’t understand that she’s already won this award and that this isn’t the same as doing publicity.

Another thing worth mentioning here is that several years ago Eddie Murphy was a considered a slam dunk for the 2006 Best Supporting Actor role as James “Thunder” Early in Dreamgirls, but then the film Norbit was released during the voting season and it is believed that the Academy voters shunned Murphy because of all of the negative press he was getting from African American Women who despised his role in that film. The press reported that fact repeatedly during that time.

This brings up the question; do Academy voters listen to the press? We think so. What do you think?

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Katt Williams Being Sued By Former Employee!

We just discovered that there is more bad news on the horizon for comedian Katt Williams. Not only is he facing criminal charges in the city of Atlanta that was previously reported, but now there is an ex-employee who's taking him to court.

As previously reported Katt was arrested in November and then involved in an incident in a Georgia Walmart a month later leading many to believe he was in jail once again- which we later discovered was false.

But with these recent allegations, he's now finding himself the target of a $232,000 lawsuit by his former assistant. The woman, named Jacqueline Guitterez claims that Kattpack Investments, Inc. (company owned and operated by Katt Williams) did not pay her for her services while working with Williams.

According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Gutierrez had to pay for all her own expenses during the ten months she worked with Williams. She is seeking $32,000 in out-of pocket expenses, nearly $60,000 in hotel expenses as well as other charges adding up to the $232,000 total.Stay tuned for more as this story develops!

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Headshot of Katt Williams by Naoe Pix

Free's Mom Dies After Long Battle With Cancer

Today we have more sad news to report; Marie "Free" Wright, known to the world as the original host of BET’s 106 and Park, lost her mother earlier this week after a very long battle with breast cancer. Sissy Wright had been battling the breast cancer battle for several years and most recently it looked as if the tide would turn in her favor but sadly to say it didn’t.

We hear at Humor Mill Magazine want to send out our deepest condolences to the Wright family as we have known them for many, many years. You will all be in our prayers.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Ghostbusters 3 Confirmed And Moving Forward!

As we previously reported several months back it was officially confirmed by Director Ivan Reitman on the red carpet of the new Avatar film yesterday; Ghostbusters 3 is moving forward.

This now falls in line to the other reports and so-called verbal “slips” by the cast including Dan Aykroyd and Signourney Weaver, who will both be joining the cast of Bill Murray, Harold Ramis and Ernie Hudson.

We hear that the story is moving forward with the cast and a new script while the Producers intend to bring back the old characters, they also intend to introduce new characters to the team, basically a “new generation” stated Aykroyd. He also stated that he would like to see an influx of some new characters join the team, and they may be female members, and two actresses he likes in particular are Alyssa Milano and Eliza Dushku.

The producers are also looking for one more comedian to join the team, someone new, and as we were told “fresh to the scene in the world of comedy.” That person is to be a counter-part to Ernie Hudson’s character, and maybe several more team members, as it looks like the new film will be almost ‘Star Trek-ish’, in a sense were there will be an Academy for cadets to learn how to be the next generation of Ghostbusters, as they learn how to use the neuron splitter and the inter-planet interceptor - new tools that will enable the cadets to slip from dimension to dimension.

Anyway we are left with the thought that there is going to be several new African-American comedian/actors that may be joining the cast, but no word yet on who the part is intended for.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Michael Blackson On Humor Mill TV!

We caught up with comedian Michael Blackson outside of The Comedy Store during Martin Lawrence's first comedy performance show in over six years. Lots of folks came out and here is just one of the folks we caught up with. Blackson gave us some insight on his upcoming projects and his new film! Check out the interview!

As usual, we are out and about in the world of comedy and this is what we got a chance to see in the past week. Enjoy!

Black Dynamite Gets Animated!

We just discovered that the comedy action film Black Dynamite, the blaxploitation spoof that was released earlier this year, is about to jump into the animation world as it is going to the Cartoon Network. We also discovered the film has been keeping up its pace of world-wide acclaim as it’s receiving standing ovations in cities such as the Czech Republic just to name a few.

Black Dynamite (played by actor Michael Jai White), is a muscular and brash former CIA agent with a license to kill, is shaken out of his semi-retirement when his estranged brother is murdered. In response, Black Dynamite unleashes a violent war on drugs to achieve his dream of getting smack off the streets thus making the hood safe again for "an afternoon stroll." His goal, meshing extremely violent means for a surprisingly delicate end, embodies a production that crackles with humor.

Screenwriter, film producer and star Michael Jai White plays the throwback hero Black Dynamite, who beds the ladies and beats the bad guys, with effortless charisma and charm. With his constantly stern expression as he recites one-liners as he creates a hero as hilarious as he is physically imposing.

Anyway, if you missed the film you missed one of the best comedies of the year. But don’t take our word for it; just follow the Awards the film has garnered around the world, as it most recently won its fourth Award this past weekend at an Italian Film Festival titled the Noir Festival. We can’t forget it won the Seattle International Film Festival Golden Space Needle for best film, and several other festivals this past year, all starting from its premiere at the very famous Sundance Film Festival that started the accolades for the film worldwide.

Now after receiving all of this world wide acclaim we hear that there is a strong possibility that the film will have a sequel, but there has been no deal done on that- yet.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Precious Makes It Mark As Award Season Begins

Award season has officially begun, and to absolutely no one’s surprise the film Precious has taken center stage as the film to watch. Yesterday as the nominations for the 67th Golden Globes were announced, it was pretty clear that The Hollywood Foreign Press Assn. recognized that the film was definitely deserving of a nomination, and decided to give it two. First, new comer actress Gabourey Sidibe, star of the film Precious was nominated in the Best Actress category for a dramatic performance, and for Best Supporting actress, comedian Mo’Nique received a nomination.

Philip Berk, President of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association®, announced updated timetable for The 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards to be broadcast in HD Sunday, January 17, 2010 from 5-8 PM (PST) and 8-11 PM (EST) live coast to coast from The Beverly Hilton on NBC.

Questions or comments? Please email us at Thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Kevin Hart Interview On Humor Mill TV!

We caught up with Kevin Hart as he discusses a couple of his projects, and well, him just being Kevin. Check out this hilarious interview!

The Humor Mill Magazine Christmas Comedy Show

Here are some pictures from our 1st Annual Christmas Comedy Show which was held at The Comedy Union. Special thanks to club owner Enss Mitchell for providing the venue. The Comedy Show was great as it featured performances by Rion Evans, Clayton thomas, Vincent O'Shana, Red Grant, Melanie Comarcho and Tony Rock. The show was hosted by Esau McGraw and there were jokes heard all around. The Party was one of the hottest in years! Stay tuned for our next event coming up soon!

Charlie Murphy's Wife Passes Away After Long Fight With Cancer

Tonight we have some terrible news to report; after battling cancer for over a year the wife of comedian and actor Charlie Murphy has passed away today in New Jersey.

Tisha Taylor Murphy, wife of comedian/actor Charlie Murphy, died in her sleep just several hours ago. The couple married on August 12, 1997 and they have three children: daughter Eva, and son Xavier. Charlie also has another son from a previous relationship.

We want to send out our most heartfelt condolences to the Murphy family during these trying times.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Salli Richardson-Whitfield On Humor Mill TV!!!

We caught up with actress Salli Richardson-Whitfield who was most recently seen in the film Black Dynamite and the upcoming film Pastor Brown. Also starring in the hit film I Am Legend with actor Will Smith, we had to ask her about the rampant rumors of the possible prequel to that film. Here Salli answers all of those questions and more right here! Check out the interview!

Bill Bellamy's Who's Got Jokes? Winner Is...

In a hard-fought battle between two talented Las Vegas natives, 26-year-old rising star comedian J. Reid, who went up against some serious competition against comedian D'Lai, has emerged victorious as the winner of the TV One comedy competition series Bill Bellamy’s Who’s Got Jokes?.
Host and veteran comic Bill Bellamy announced the results on tonight’s season finale show.

Showtime's Laugh Out Loud Comedy Festival

Tonight we got a chance to swing by the Showtime Laugh Out Loud Comedy Festival tapings and we saw a lot of Hollywood come out. Tonight's set featured comedians Red Grant, Chris "Kid'Reid, Thea Vidale and Chris Spencer as they put on a helluva show opening up the second installment of its festival shows, featuring 38 comedians that will premiere on Showtime in 2010 and 2011.

The diverse roster of other comedic performers include Will Durst, Bruce Vilanch, Al Madrigal, Ahmed Ahmed, Joey Medina, Dan Naturman, Eliot Chang, Nema Williams, Sandra Valls and Kira Soltanovich. The shows will be filmed December 9-12 at The El Portal Theatre, located at 5269 Lankershim Boulevard (at Magnolia) in North Hollywood, CA.

So check out the Showtime LOL Comedy Festival as we will be there broadcasting, so stay tuned!

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Showtime Network Jumps Deeper Into Urban Comedy With Laugh Out Loud Comedy Festival

After the very successful tapings for the Showtime network this past year with Shaq's Comedy All-Stars Produced by Codeblack Entertainment, (which featured DL Hughley, Cedric The Entertainer, Melanie Comarcho, Red Grant, DeRay Davis, Kevin Hart, Aires Spears, and Rickey Smiley just to name a few) we just discovered that the Showtime network is about to make a more concentrated effort in the urban comedy space.

One case in point is the line up of the Laugh Out Loud comedy tapings this weekend which feature comedians Chris Spencer, Flo Roderiguez, Edwin San Juan, Russell Peters and Nema Williams (and several others who we have yet to discover). The tapings are to be held this weekend beginning on Friday at 10:30 PM with Chris Spencer's taping at the El Portal Theater in Hollywood. Stay tuned right here for more details!

Questions or comments? Please email us thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Photo above of Chris Spencer by Tim Alexander

Today We Remember Richard Pryor

December 10th marks the fourth year anniversary of the death of one the most brilliant comedians to ever grace the stage, Richard Pryor. He did for stand up comedy what Michael Jackson did for music, surely incomparable by today’s standards. It was the summer of 1982, my freshmen year in college, when I first saw “Richard Pryor’s Live on Sunset Strip.” It was by far one of the most incredible performances I had ever seen. After all these years I am still laughing. The mark of a true comedian is that the laughter doesn’t cease because the show ends, it has the power to supersede time and space and keep you laughing for years to come, positively Pryor. He was no doubt a comedic trailblazer whose indelible markings are still seen in the comedic landscape. Jerry Sienfield called Pryor, “ The Picaso of our profession.” It was only natural that his comedic genius made it to the big screen in such memorable performances as "Brewster’s Millions", "Stir Crazy", and "Silver Streak" because the stage alone could no longer hold him. His incredible talent did not go unnoticed and his work garnered him One Emmy, five Grammy Awards and two American Academy of Humor Awards. Truly the world paused at his passing.

By Yvonne D. Gregge

Here is a portion of Richard Pryor's performance from his stand-up film titled Richard Pryor: Live on Sunset Strip filmed in 1982 in Hollywood, CA.

Ice Cube Brings New Comedy Series To TV With Are We There Yet?

This just in; it looks like Ice Cube is branching out to TV with a very successful film franchise that he has under his belt- The Are We There Yet? franchise, and it looks like it is moving along with his production partner Matt Alvarez (of Cube Vision Productions).

We hear the duo is producing with a substantial series commitment from the TBS Network. Besides the TV series beginning development, we hear that Cube Vision and Ice Cube is hard at work bringing back the TV series Welcome Back, Kotter to the big screen. More on this story as it develops.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Mike Epps To Get Never Faded AGAIN?

It’s been a real busy year for comedic actor Mike Epps. First, he just wrapped production on the film Lottery Ticket (also starring Ice Cube, Brandon T. Jackson and Bow Wow), plus he starred in The Janky Promoters (another film starring Ice Cube, and Little JJ). He also hosted the 3rd Annual BET Hip Hop Awards, and he launched several music videos for his hip hop venture titled Funny Bidness.

But that’s not all; The biggest news for Epps the past couple of months has been the heat of his stand-up comedy DVD titled Mike Epps: Under Rated & Never Faded which was filmed in Detroit. We just discovered that the Showtime network has stated that the special has posted some serious numbers, more than they have seen in a while.

But the news does not stop there; we also just discovered that on the heels of those hot numbers for the network Mike Epps is about to re-visit the stage again and about to film another comedy special. No word yet on if it’s going to go straight to DVD, or if it’s for a network special but we are sure the details are going to surface soon.

Next up for Epps is the film titled Liberty City: The American Dream with new actress Hazel D'Jan.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

NBC Stand Up For Diversity Showcase After Party

In its sixth consecutive year, NBC is proud to present another groundbreaking year of Stand-Up for Diversity. Through this initiative comedians of diverse backgrounds have been launched to new career milestones. Each year NBC selects 3-5 cities across the country and holds both auditions and live showcases of the top diverse talent from that area. At the end of the search a handful of comedians are brought back to Los Angeles to showcase for key industry players at NBC Universal and industry-wide. Many of the comics from last year's Best of Stand-Up for Diversity showcase signed with top Hollywood agents and met with the entertainment industry's leading casting directors and executives.

So we caught up with the Showcase at the Comedy Store. during their after party. Please check back here for more details on the latest news and info on the Showcase.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

The PIMP 247 Red Carpet

Here is the Red Carpet of the new crime drama series ever to be shown on TV "PIMP-24/7", which is a new one-hour series starring actor Gary Sturgis (Daddy's Little Girls), Antwon Tanner (One Tree Hill) and newcomer Coley Speaks. Tommy Davidson (In Living Color), Trae Ireland (Zane's Sex Chronicles), Shawn Richardz and Ken Lawson (The Parkers) round out the cast in this riveting, sophisticated drama which centers on a well-spoken, educated pimp who lives undetected by his suburban neighbors, while trying to protect his young nephews who are quickly becoming drawn into the procuring lifestyle. Stay tuned for which network the show will be broadcast on soon.

Chris Rock & Martin Lawrence New Film Creating New Controversy Amongst Media Outlets

We just discovered that the first official trailer for the new Chris Rock and Martin Lawrence film titled Death at a Funeral has just been released online and we seem to have a little controversy brewing amongst the media already.

First we have to state the facts of the movie in case you haven’t hear about it; Death at a Funeral is a remake of the 2007 British movie of the same name, Death at a Funeral which stars Rock and Lawrence, as well as Tracy Morgan and Kevin Hart just to name a few and takes place at a funeral ceremony that turns into a debacle of exposed family secrets and misplaced bodies. Now add all of that with a family twist.

Several media outlets have contacted us to suggest that the film is extremely racist amongst other things, and that they will report this as so. Some outlets have already launched their opinions as such, but we will reserve that right until we have seen the film. After all no one has screened the film yet, only the trailer. To us, it’s a bit difficult make any informed decision based on this few-minute trailer so let’s just wait and see. In the meantime here is the trailer;

VH1 Jumps Into Housewives Genre With New NBA Wives Series

We just discovered from the VH1 network that they are preparing to launch a new series, patterned almost exactly after The Atlanta Housewives, titled Basketball Wives. It seems as if this is the new genre now, after the success and spin-offs of all of the Housewives titled shows.

Anyway, the eight-episode half-hour series will show the wives and girlfriends of players Shaquille O'Neal, Eric Williams, Antoine Walker, Jermaine O'Neal and Udonis Haslem's. (We ask why are girlfriends on the show?)

We also hear that Shed Media is producing the series, with co-star Shaunie O'Neal also earning an executive producer credit, even though we recently discovered that she recently separated from her NBA All-Star husband Shaquille O’Neal. How this will affect the show will remain to be seen since the majority of the show was filmed before the break-up.

"Having been around these remarkable women for several years, I have always recognized that behind every NBA star is a strong, exceptional woman, one who must deal with the unique challenges of being married to the game as well as the player," said Shaunie O'Neal.

The series premieres March 15, 2010.

Who's Got Jokes? To Announce Winner This Saturday!

After battling through 8 grueling weeks of harsh celebrity judges, pies in the face, “yo mama” jokes and more, finalists and Vegas natives D’Lai and J Reid will learn which of them will walk away with bragging rights and their very own TV One comedy special during the series finale of Bill Bellamy's Who's Got Jokes on Saturday, December 12 at 10 p.m. EST.

Viewers will decide the final outcome by voting online or via text message for their favorite comic between now and Wednesday, Dec. 9, then watch the finale on Saturday night to see who will take home the “Who’s Got Jokes” comedy title.

Host Bill Bellamy, co-hosts Rodney Perry and Tommy Ford provide ringside commentary and referee the action. Special celebrity performances from R&B bad boy Bobby Brown and sultry R&B newcomer Teirra Marie. From now until Wednesday, Dec. 9, viewers can cast their votes for the champ by texting or online:

www.tvoneonline.com
Text Jokes DLai to 31452
Text Jokes JReid to 31452

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

The Comedy SEEN so far for this week...

New Issue-Comedy's Hottest Dynamic Duo!

Here is the latest issue of The Humor Mill Magazine featuring comedian and actor Bill Bellamy and Executive Producer Ralph Farquhar as they discuss the upcoming season of Who's Got Jokes? and more. Plus we have the latest info on Katt Williams, Martin Lawrence, Eddie Murphy and more! All of the latest in comedy and entertainment news right here!

Bill Bellamy & Ralph Farquhar Interview- Comedy's Hottest Dynamic Duo!

We interview comedian and actor Bill Bellamy and Executive Producer Ralph Farquhar as they discuss the upcoming season of Who's Got Jokes?. Check out the interview as they both tell you their thoughts about how the show rolls out and how much fun it was putting the show together. Plus we discover how they both came together to create one of the most powerful urban comedies on television!

Katt Williams Briefly Detained At Wal-Mart In Georgia!

Here is a video of the latest incident involving Katt Williams where a local news agency has reported that Williams was arrested AGAIN and detained at the local Wal-Mart in Georgia after a run-in with a patron in the store. Williams' had his semi-truck searched and he claims many of his items in the truck where destroyed by the police during their search. Williams was later released after the search.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Brooklyn's Finest Movie Trailer Released!

Cop movies usually come in a set flavour. You've got your grizzled veteran a week away from retiring. Your otherwise honorable plod who has to go crooked to provide for his family. And the undercover type who gets in a little too deep. But with Brooklyn's Finest, you get them all blended together like a street-flavoured policeshake!

The trailer for Antoine Fuqua's latest is now online at Apple and does indeed feature every one of the archetypes listed above. Richard Gere's the burned-out lifetimer counting the minutes until he can start fishing, Ethan Hawke's the man trying to keep his big family happy and Don Cheadle is the cop whose loyalties are shifting from his comrades to former prison buddy/drug kingpin Wesley Snipes.

The three officers all find themselves caught up with the NYPD's attempt to clean up a notorious housing project and, over seven days, are all tested in various dangerous ways.

Fuqua made his name with Training Day, so he knows how to make a solid cop drama - and it's hard to argue with that cast. Just don't blame us if you suffer from gritty crime overload...
James White

Martin Lawrence To Be Honored At Foster Youth Gala

We just discovered that Martin Lawrence will be honored today at the Beverly Hills Hotel headlining the CARRY’s 2009 Annual Fundraising gala to benefit Foster Youth throughout the city of Los Angeles. We also discovered that The Temptations,
featuring Dennis Edwards are also performing.

Actress Jennifer Lewis is set to serve as Master of Ceremonies. The night’s special guest honoree presentation will be presented to Lawrence, best known for his hit television series, MARTIN, Hosting The original Def Comedy Jam series, and his many hit films including the Bad Boys Franchise and the Big Momma's House franchise..

CARRY, the Coalition For At-Risk Youth, is a non-profit organization dedicated to changing the lives of foster care youth. Founded by renowned dermatologist, Dr. Pearl Grimes, CARRY has achieved some significant successes since its creation in 2005. CARRY established a special grant of $90,000 awarded to A Place Called Home, an award-winning Los Angeles after-school program for at risk children.

In case you want to attend, tickets are $285 each, and may be purchased by calling (323) 302-0412 or by visiting the CARRY website at www.foratriskyouth.org.

Takers Gets A Part 2 Greenlight Before 1st Film Is Released!

We just discovered from our sources that the Screen Gems film titled Takers to be released next year was given a green-light to begin pre-production on a second film; all of this even before the original has even been released.

In case you are wondering what the film is, Takers has a very powerful cast including actors Idris Elba, Zoe Saldana, Chris Brown, T.I., Hayden Christensen,Matt Dillon, Paul Walker, Michael Ealy and Steve Harris just to name a few. The film is basically about a group of bank robbers who find their $20 million plan interrupted by a hard-boiled detective.

So far, we have discovered that the film has the Screen Gems excited about the film and because of the excitement they have moved forward with the process for beginning the sequel.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

The More Hustlin' Tour Hits Long Beach!

Just in case you haven't heard, comedians Luenell, Melanie Comarcho and Red Grant began their own tour titled More Hustlin', as they call it the sequel to Katt Williams Pimp Chronicles Tour. That tour was said to have collected over 80 million dollars in receipts and in DVD sales, and spawned many opportunities for all of those involved.

Several years ago all three were featured with Katt Williams as they toured across the country on the way a very successful tour. Anyway, on the way to their own tour, minus Katt (as he has retired from doing stand-up) the trio played the at the Laugh Factory in Long Beach. Pictured here is Melanie, Red and Luenell taking a break from the tour.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Eddie Murphy To Partner WIth Paramount!

We just discovered from our sources that word on the Paramount Studios lot is that actor/comedian Eddie Murphy is planning on partnering with the studio to set up his own production company and produce several films a year, with a deal for three years. What makes this significant is the Murphy once had a similar deal years ago, but now is negotiating with the studio to PRODUCE the films, where as his deal before included him starring in the films.

We also hear that the deal will be almost similar to Tyler Perry's deal with Lionsgate where Perry owns his films. No word yet on the terms of the deal, but our sources say that Murphy will be paid three million a year, plus ownership and rights to all of the films produced under the yet-to-be titled production banner.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Showtime Moves Ahead With More Urban Specials

We just discovered from our sources that the Showtime Network is about to pull out some "big guns" in the urban comedy circles. Why do we say that you ask? Well besides the Shaq Comedy All Stars specials that they have been filming with Codeblack Entertainment and broadcasting on the network, we have discovered that there are some immediate plans to film some half hour specials.

We know for a fact that there have been three comedians who have been contacted as potential comics for the specials, and it looks like plans are moving forward for them to be filmed. Stay tuned as we are confirming who the comedians will be.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

GIANT Magazine Folds!

As we stated several months ago, it has now come to pass; GIANT Magazine is folding. Radio One, owner of urban publication Giant Magazine, has announced that the print edition will cease publication after the upcoming issue is released to newsstands.

Our sources told us that the expected factors have all played a hand in the folding of the GIANT, such as the economy, as well as media dollars being shifted away from print magazines to Internet properties.

The Giant brand will continue to operate under Radio One’s subsidiary company, Interactive One.

Interactive One was launched in 2008 to compliment Radio One’s portfolio of digital properties, which include BlackPlanet.com, NewsOne.com and Hellobeautful.com.

Giantlife.com will launch with an exclusive video series featuring Alicia Keys. Giant was a bi-monthly publication that was acquired by Radio One in 2007. The magazine published a total of 33 issues.

Alicia Keys is featured on Giant Magazine's final cover of the print edition, which lands on newsstands December 15th.

The question now remains, who's next?

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Ice Cube Set Up Another New Comedy Film & Creates Movement On Welcome Back, Kotter

We just discovered from our source that actor Ice Cube is about to continue to make a splash in the comedy scene with a new live action flick titled Ride Along for FOX.

We hear that the film takes place in a hospital and centers on a female doctor who is unraveling at the seams. The film from New Line and Cube Vision, will star Cube as a rogue cop who tries to break off his sister's engagement to an upper-crust white psychiatrist by inviting his future brother-in-law on a ride-along.

The film will be written by Greg Coolidge, has gone through a couple of rewrites. Cube and his producing partner Matt Alvarez are producing, with Chris Bender and JC Spink executive producing.

In other Ice Cube news our sources say that there has been some movement in the re-make of the new film Welcome Back, Kotter as we hear that the script has been finalized and is about to go into pre-production. We are working hard to confirm that story.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Katt Williams To Be Indicted On Monday; Is This A Witch Hunt?

We just discovered that comedian and rapper Katt Williams will be indicted on Monday in Atlanta on charges that stem from his arrest on Sunday November 8th from charges of burglary and criminal trespassing, according to our source.

As reported then, there was an incident that happened at FIlm Producer Barry Hankerson’s home in Newnan, about 38 miles southwest of Atlanta. Police stated that an unidentified person called police around 9 p.m. to report the comedian "gained entry by breaking into the home, and items were taken from the residence."

Coweta County Sheriff's Office Major James Yarbrough said jewelry was taken, but did not have further details to report.
Later during that week it was discovered that Williams was filming in Atlanta and was a guest in film producer Barry Hankeson's home and that there was a minor altercation and the police arrested Williams before the entire details of the case could be sorted out.

Also of note, the arresting officers who arrived on the scene did not realize Katt Williams was a guest of the home and after speaking with the unidentified person who called the police, determined that there was sufficient evidence to place Williams under arrest.

Williams, whose real name is Micah S. Katt Williams, is known for his roles in the movies "Friday After Next" and "Norbit." His comedy DVD, "Katt Williams: Pimpadelic," was no. 8 in the nation for sales during the week of Oct. 30, according to Nielsen/VideoScan.

But lately the entertainer has gained as much attention for criminal troubles as for his quips.
He was briefly jailed last November after New York police who pull him over for driving without a license plate discovered three guns. Manhattan prosecutors dropped weapons charges in July after running into problems proving their case.

Humor Mill TV- One On One With Comedian Chris Spencer

We chat with comedian Chris Spencer as he discusses his upcoming projects, plus about being a writer in Hollywood. Not too many folks know that he is the driving force for a lot of comedies that are aired and even Award Shows. Anyway we chat with him about everything that is on his plate and he drops some news on us about something that he has in the works! Check out the interview!

Who's Got Jokes? Picks It's Final Eight!

It started with 24 of the country’s hottest rising comics…..and then there were eight. After six strong weeks of competition, Yohancé Collins (Atlanta), D’Lai (Las Vegas), Derek Gaines (Philadelphia), Jackie Fabulous (Los Angeles), Frank Lucero (Los Angeles), J Reid (Las Vegas), Alex Ortiz (Chicago) and Josh Harris (Atlanta) are season 4 semi-finalists and the last ‘men’ standing on TV One’s comedy competition series Bill Bellamy's Who’s Got Jokes? These stand-out performers are competing for a chance to win their own TV One comedy special.

The semi-finals hosted by veteran comedian/actor Bill Bellamy air in two rounds on Saturday, November 21st and 28th at 10:00 pm on TV One. There’s a specially-themed UNLV NIGHT on November 21 with legendary coach Jerry “Tark the Shark” Tarkanian, the UNLV cheerleading squad and a special UNLV student body “Who’s Got Jokes 100” audience pool stopping by to join in the laughs. Also featured are celebrity guest judges such as R&B singer/reality star Ray J (VH1’s “For The Love of Ray J” II), actresses LisaRaye McCoy and Kym Whitley, and former NBA star Eric Snow.

Stay tuned for more info and interviews right here! Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

(Pictured is comedian D'Lai on stage during his performance at the Who's Got jokes? taping.)

Martin Lawrence Prepping A New Comedy Tour?

This past weekend we were able to to catch up with Martin Lawrence at The Comedy Store in Hollywood as he performed in front of two sold out shows on Friday and Saturday nights. For the audience's reaction both nights it looks as if Lawrence is back and trying to get a feel to see if he may want to go out and get back on the comedy tour circuit. Who knows, maybe watching all of the comedians he has seen over the past couple of years on The Martin Lawrence 1st Amendment Show has gotten his juices flowing again.

Anyway, both nights comedian Melanie Comarcho opened for him and set the tone for the show with a hilarious set that gives us the idea that if a tour was set in motion there is a good chance Comarcho will probably go back out on tour with him. As it looks now, we hear that there is a good possibility that Lawrence may go back out the beginning of next year and it just may kick off overseas first. There has been nothing set in stone but as we discover the news, we will fill you in!

(Pictured here is Martin Lawrence immediately after his performance)

Questions or comments? Please email us at Thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Humor Mill TV- One On One With Wil Sylvince

Here is an interview with comedian Wil Sylvince as he discusses his festival, The Short Cuts Film Festival that happened in LA and in New York. We also discover how he got the festival started and more! Check out the hilarious interview on Humor Mill TV!

Eddie Murphy Set To Produce Misadventures Of Fluffy

Word has just reached us that comedic actor Eddie Murphy is about to set up his production skills because we hear Murphy is set to produce and possibly star in a new film titled The Misadventures of Fluffy produced by Paramount Pictures.

We hear the film features talking animals which may or may not be a good idea because the film will evoke memories of Murphy's very popular Dr. Doolittle franchise, except this film is set to be an R rated film.

Murphy could potentially star in the film, but as it stands now, his only formal attachment is as a producer. Sam Pitman and Adam Cole-Kelly sold the pitch for the comedy and will write the script.

In other Murphy news, he is also set to sign on to star in Trump Heist and Shrek Forever After. Stay tuned hear for more info as the story develops.

Questions or comments?Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Actor Idris Elba Joins The Cast Of The New Superhero Film Thor!

We just got word that actor Idris Elba, probably best known for his character Stringer Bell from the extremely popular HBO hit series The Wire, has recently joined the cast of the new comic book film titled Thor, Marvel Studios' film centering on the Norse god of thunder.

Kenneth Branagh is directing the adaptation of the Marvel comic. Chris Hemsworth will star as Thor; Tom Hiddleston will play Loki, and Natalie Portman is the love interest Jane Foster.

Elba will play Heimdall; as the guardian of Asgard, he stands on the BiFrost Bridge ready to defend the city from intruders.

We hear that shooting is due to begin in mid-January in Manhattan Beach, Calif.

Questions of comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

Jamie Foxx & Martin Lawrence Team Up For Sheneneh and Wanda!

We all knew it was coming as soon as we saw it on television. In case you missed the BET Awards 2009 this past year, the most talked about sketch of the evening was the sketch starring the characters Sheneneh from the Martin show and Wanda from In Living Color. Well now as we expected, there will be a movie starring those characters.

By popular demand Screen Gems has acquired Sheneneh and Wanda, starring Jamie Foxx and Martin Lawrence in the female characters they developed for their respective television shows. We hear that Foxx will write the script and he and Martin will produce together through Foxx's Foxxhole and Lawrence's Runteldat production banners.

The project originated as a parody of a movie trailer for a film called Skank Robbers, which Foxx and Lawrence made for the BET Awards. The reaction was strong enough that the duo decided to turn the concept into a real film. In case you missed the skit, Sheneneh and Wanda are modern day independent women trying to make it on their own, one bank robbery at a time.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com

****UPDATE*** Katt Williams Arrest In Atlanta News Update!

According to published reports about Katt Williams still being held by authorities,we can confirm that Williams has been released on bail in Atlanta and seems to be preparing to make a statement to the media Tuesday morning. Also, we just recently have discovered that Katt DID call the police as they were summoned to the resident that he was eventually arrested.

Reports are also stating that someone other than Barry Hankerson resides in the home that Katt was arrested at, and those stories are false, as Hankerson is the film producer who is currently employing Katt in a film that they are shooting in Atlanta and have been for the past three weeks.

As previously reported, there was an altercation that happened at the residence and since the police were called the altercation escalated to where the police had to make an arrest. Katt was having a dispute with an employee of Hankerson's and they were upset and they made the claim to the police upon their arrival that Katt had broken in to the property stolen jewelry and had a crow bar in his hand.

As we stated, there is so much more to this story than what was initially reported, but we did state to you that there wasn't much validity to the police report because Katt was a guest of the home.

Questions or comments? Please email us at thehumormill.info@gmail.com