SitcomsOnline.com News Blog

Brandy to Sing Theme Song for A Different World; Damon Wayans Reuniting with David Alan Grier on St. Denis Medical

Netflix announced that Grammy Award winner, Brandy Norwood, is bringing her voice to the theme song for A Different World, releasing September 24th, only on Netflix.

A Different World returns to Hillman College with a new class stepping onto campus - and beloved faces coming home. At the center is Deborah Wayne (Maleah Joi Moon), Whitley and Dwayne's lovingly sheltered youngest daughter, a free spirit with a flair for the spotlight and a big heart who's still figuring out her own path at Hillman.

Along the way, she's joined by a new generation that reflects the breadth of Black life on campus: Rashida Duvall (Alijah Kai), a first gen criminal justice major; Shaquille Johnson (Cornell Young IV), a five star athlete choosing legacy; Amir Rodale (Jordan Aaron Hall), a sharp psych major better at fixing everyone else's problems than facing his own; Hazel Henry (Kennedi Reece), a church raised small town girl defining her own values; and Kojo Achebe (Chibuikem Uche), a Ghanaian Nigerian fashion entrepreneur finding the courage to follow his vision. Legacy favorites also return, including Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy), Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison), Freddie Brooks (Cree Summer), and Ron Johnson (Darryl M. Bell).

Set against the rituals, humor, and nuances of an HBCU, A Different World is a hopeful dramedy, full of heart and unapologetically centered on the richness and complexity of the Black experience.

Damon Wayans (My Wife and Kids, Lethal Weapon) reunites with In Living Color castmate David Alan Grier on the season three premiere of NBC's St. Denis Medical. Wayans will guest star in the role of Dr. Highland, a charming but pompous new doctor at St. Denis. He is filling in while Ron (David Alan Grier) is recovering from surgery. All the patients and staff (besides Alex) have fallen head over heels for him and his insights.

St. Denis Medical is a mockumentary about an underfunded, understaffed Oregon hospital where the dedicated doctors and nurses try their best to treat patients while maintaining their own sanity. In season three, romantic entanglements and personal struggles complicate relationships in the Emergency Department, pushing some St. Denis employees to the brink.

The series will return for season three on Monday, November 2 at 8 p.m. on NBC. Season one and two are available to stream on Peacock.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, In Living Color, NBC, Netflix, St. Denis Medical

First Look at Netflix's A Different World; Great American Family's 6th Annual Christmas Slate Begins in October with Laura Vandervoort Movie

A new class just enrolled...a new generation, a legendary legacy. A Different World premieres September 24th on Netflix and first look images have been released. 10 episodes, single camera, half-hour format will air starring Maleah Joi Moon, Alijah Kai, Cornell Young IV, Jordan Aaron Hall, Kennedi Reece, and Chibuikem Uche.

A Different World returns to Hillman College with a new class stepping onto campus - and beloved faces coming home. At the center is Deborah Wayne (Maleah Joi Moon), Whitley and Dwayne's lovingly sheltered youngest daughter, a free spirit with a flair for the spotlight and a big heart who's still figuring out her own path at Hillman.

Along the way, she's joined by a new generation that reflects the breadth of Black life on campus: Rashida Duvall (Alijah Kai), a first gen criminal justice major; Shaquille Johnson (Cornell Young IV), a five star athlete choosing legacy; Amir Rodale (Jordan Aaron Hall), a sharp psych major better at fixing everyone else's problems than facing his own; Hazel Henry (Kennedi Reece), a church raised small town girl defining her own values; and Kojo Achebe (Chibuikem Uche), a Ghanaian Nigerian fashion entrepreneur finding the courage to follow his vision. Legacy favorites also return, including Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy), Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison), Freddie Brooks (Cree Summer), and Ron Johnson (Darryl M. Bell).

Set against the rituals, humor, and nuances of an HBCU, A Different World is a hopeful dramedy, full of heart and unapologetically centered on the richness and complexity of the Black experience.

Great American Media announced Christmas By the Spoonful, an all-new Original Movie starring Laura Vandervoort (V, Smallville, Bitten), Olivier Renaud, Ilan O'Driscoll, and Holly Bridges, premieres this holiday season as part of the sixth annual Great American Christmas, the network's signature celebration of Christmas as it is meant to be. Christmas By the Spoonful will have its World Premiere streaming on Great American Pure Flix and will air on Great American Family and GFAM+ when the beloved annual event returns to air in October.

In Christmas By the Spoonful, food critic Lorraine Boulanger (Vandervoort) may know exceptional cuisine, but she has no culinary abilities of her own. When Lorraine is tasked with preparing her family's first Christmas dinner since the passing of their beloved matriarch, she must turn to local French food-truck owner, Pierre DuBois (Renaud) for help. The problem: Lorraine's harsh review years earlier nearly put Pierre out of business. As the unlikely pair work together to create a meaningful holiday meal in honor of Lorraine's mom, old resentments begin to soften, and the spirit of Christmas offers them an unexpected opportunity for forgiveness, connection, and love.

Great American Christmas returns this holiday season with a new slate of Original movies celebrating faith, family, love, hope, and the timeless traditions that make Christmas the most cherished season of the year.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Great American Family, Netflix

Netflix's A Different World Premieres September 24; Ted Danson Joins Elizabeth Banks Apple TV Comedy

Official date and teaser are now announced for Netflix's A Different World! The new class just enrolled 🎓. A Different World premieres on Netflix September 24 with 10 episodes of the single-camera comedy.

A Different World returns to Hillman College with a new class stepping onto campus - and beloved faces coming home. At the center is Deborah Wayne (Maleah Joi Moon), Whitley and Dwayne's lovingly sheltered youngest daughter, a free spirit with a flair for the spotlight and a big heart who's still figuring out her own path at Hillman.

Along the way, she's joined by a new generation that reflects the breadth of Black life on campus: Rashida Duvall (Alijah Kai), a first gen criminal justice major; Shaquille Johnson (Cornell Young IV), a five star athlete choosing legacy; Amir Rodale (Jordan Aaron Hall), a sharp psych major better at fixing everyone else's problems than facing his own; Hazel Henry (Kennedi Reece), a church raised small town girl defining her own values; and Kojo Achebe (Chibuikem Uche), a Ghanaian Nigerian fashion entrepreneur finding the courage to follow his vision. Legacy favorites also return, including Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy), Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison), Freddie Brooks (Cree Summer), and Ron Johnson (Darryl M. Bell).

Set against the rituals, humor, and nuances of an HBCU, A Different World is a hopeful dramedy, full of heart and unapologetically centered on the richness and complexity of the Black experience. Starring Maleah Joi Moon, Alijah Kai, Cornell Young IV, Jordan Aaron Hall, Kennedi Reece, and Chibuikem Uche.

He's back in the dating pool. Ted Danson joins Elizabeth Banks' new comedy series about a recent divorcée managing her father's retirement home hookups. Apple TV announced it will expand its Emmy Award-winning comedy slate with a new half-hour series led by four-time Emmy Award nominee Elizabeth Banks (The Miniature Wife, The Better Sister, 30 Rock), and hailing from creators Liz Heldens (Will Trent, Friday Night Lights) and Matt Ward (The Big Leap, Best Medicine).

The series is set to begin production in Los Angeles this year. Fresh off a messy divorce, Heidi sets out to secure a lively second act for herself and her kids. But when she stumbles into coordinating her father's retirement community sex dates, Heidi is forced into an unlikely alliance with his girlfriend's perpetually single son.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Apple TV+, Netflix

SitcomsOnline Digest: New Episodes of The Simpsons Headed Exclusively to Disney+; Release Date Set for Reboot of A Different World

 Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! This week, we're hearing about new episodes of The Simpsons (that'll be exclusively on streaming), a premiere date for a reboot of a classic series, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• Get ready for a mini-season of summer episodes of The Simpsons, but they will be available exclusively on Disney+. (Deadline)
• A release date for the reboot of A Different World has been set, and it is exactly 39 years after the original. (Variety)
• CBS is defending their decision to replace The Late Show with Stephen Colbert with Comics Unleashed, which is doing a terrible job of attracting viewers. (Deadline)
• Meanwhile, over at the news side for CBS, there are huge changes coming to 60 Minutes despite being successful in the ratings. (AP News)
• Jay Daniel, executive producer for Roseanne, Moonlighting, and Cybill, has died. (Deadline)
• Director Howard Storm, known for his work on Mork & Mindy, Valerie, Rhoda, and many other series (even including Kenan & Kel), has died at age 94. (Deadline)
• CNN typically has Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen host a countdown for New Year's Eve, so why not do another one for the countdown to Independence Day for the 250th birthday of America? (Rolling Stone)
• Hallmark has new movies planned every Saturday night in June. (SitcomsOnline)

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: 60 Minutes, A Different World, Comics Unleashed, Cybill, Hallmark Channel, Late Show, Moonlighting, Mork & Mindy, Roseanne, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Simpsons

SitcomsOnline Digest: First Look at Stuart Fails to Save the Universe; A Different World Reboot Set for Fall Premiere

 Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! It's a busy week, and we only have some of the highlights for you (go back and read previous postings from earlier in the week), but we do have new news about some streaming series debuts and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• We have our first look at The Big Bang Theory spinoff, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe. (Hollywood Reporter)
• The reboot of A Different World will debut in the fall on Netflix, but we don't know much more than that. (Deadline)
• The new season of Futurama is coming to Hulu in August, but don't expect to be able to binge the entire season the day it comes out this time. (Gizmodo)
• David Letterman stopped by to help Stephen Colbert say goodbye to The Late Show this week, and created some memorable moments. (Deadline)
• Dennis Rush, who played Howie, one of Opie's friends on The Andy Griffith Show, has died. (Hollywood Reporter)
• HBO's Rooster has turned out to be one of their most-watched comedies in over 15 years. (Deadline)
• Remember Wordle, the game everybody was playing and talking about a few years ago but now most of us have forgotten? Well, it's getting an NBC game show hosted by Savannah Guthrie. (Variety)
• Great Entertainment Television has acquired Happy Endings. (SitcomsOnline)

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Andy Griffith Show, Futurama, Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage, Happy Endings, Late Show, Rooster, SitcomsOnline Digest, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe

A Different World Sequel Wraps Production and Adds More Cast Members; Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Coming to ABC and Hulu in July

Netflix announced that production for Netflix's sequel series of A Different World has officially wrapped in Atlanta, Georgia. The show will explore the lives and loves of a new generation at the iconic fictional HBCU, Hillman College.

Cliff 'Method Man' Smith and Norman Nixon Jr. join the cast, along with legacy cast members Karen Malina White as Charmaine Brown and Ajai Sanders as Gina Deveaux.

· New Cast Announcements:
· Cliff 'Method Man' Smith (PowerBook II, Godfather of Harlem, The Wire) as Coach Coles
· Ajai Sanders (Phat Tuesday, 2 Degrees, Are We There Yet?) as Gina Deveaux
· Karen Malina White (Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder, Malcolm & Eddie) as Charmaine Brown
· Norman Nixon Jr. (Grey's Anatomy, Haus of Vicious, The Ms. Pat Show) as Professor Baptiste

Logline: When Deborah (Maleah Joi Moon), Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison) and Whitley Gilbert's (Jasmine Guy) free-spirited, well-intentioned, yet rebellious youngest child, enters her freshman year at Hillman College, she finds the shadow of her parents difficult to escape as she sets out to build her own legacy, while having the time of her life, alongside a whole new generation of Hillman's best and brightest.

Dancing with the Stars expands its hit franchise with a new competition series, Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, coming to ABC and Hulu. The series will premiere July 13, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC, with episodes available the next day on Hulu.

Hosted by wildlife conservationist and Dancing with the Stars Season 34 Len Goodman Mirrorball Champion Robert Irwin, Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, features 12 exceptional up-and-coming dancers who move into one house and compete in a grueling audition process, all vying for a coveted spot as a pro dancer on Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars. Three-time Mirrorball champion Mark Ballas and his mother, Shirley Ballas "The Queen of Latin" will serve as judges. They will be joined by a star-studded lineup of returning pros who will serve as rotating mentors/guest judges. Details about the returning pros, and contestants will be announced at a later date.

The series is produced by BBC Studios. Conrad Green serves as showrunner and executive producer. Ryan O'Dowd, Krystal Whitney, Alex Cross and Jenny Groom are executive producers. Deena Katz and Quinn Lipton are co-executive producers.

Posted by Todd -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, ABC, Dancing with the Stars, Netflix

SitcomsOnline Digest: More Casting News for Reboot of A Different World; Amy Poehler Produced Comedy in Development at Netflix

 Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! It's a slow week, but we have some reboot casting news, a new Netflix series from Amy Poehler, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• We've got some casting news for the upcoming Netflix reboot of A Different World. (TVLine)
• A new Amy Poehler produced comedy is in development at Netflix. (Deadline)
• It isn't really a shock since it hasn't made a huge splash, but CBS has canceled DMV. (TVLine)
• Sean Hayes is set to have a recurring role in the upcoming season of The Morning Show. (Deadline)
• A Jeopardy spinoff is set to launch on YouTube with YouTube creators, appropriately titled Jeopardy! YouTube Edition. (Hollywood Reporter)
• Savannah Guthrie has set a date to return to Today, as the prolonged search for her mother continues. (NBC News)
• Paramount+ (which will be the new home for it) has renewed The Ms. Pat Show. (SitcomsOnline)

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Hogan's Heroes, Jeopardy, Netflix, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Morning Show, The Ms. Pat Show, Today, Walker Texas Ranger

Running Point Returns April 23 on Netflix; A Different World Sequel Starts Production

Running Point returns for a season two on Netflix on April 23 from Executive Producer Mindy Kaling and Starring Kate Hudson. Isla Gordon (Kate Hudson) is no longer the surprise choice to lead the Los Angeles Waves, she's the one everyone is watching. With the franchise finally rebounding after last year's scandal, Isla is determined to prove she's not just keeping the seat warm for her brother Cam (Justin Theroux). What she doesn't know is that Cam is quietly maneuvering behind the scenes to reclaim his post, turning every misstep into ammunition. As she tries to balance the pressure of running a franchise with devoting time to her personal life, every decision on and off the court counts. To survive the family power plays and the scrutiny of the board, she'll have to rip up last season's game plan and come up with a whole new playbook if she wants to close out the season on top. From executive producers Mindy Kaling, Ike Barinholtz, and David Stassen, season two of Running Point raises the stakes, deepens the family drama, and finds even more comedy in what it takes to run a modern sports empire.

Starring: Kate Hudson, Drew Tarver, Brenda Song, Scott MacArthur, Fabrizio Guido, Chet Hanks, Toby Sandeman, Uche Agada and Justin Theroux. Recurring Guest Stars: Ray Romano, Max Greenfield, Jay Ellis, Roberto Sanchez, Jon Glaser, Scott Evans, Rob Huebel, Marissa Reyes, Blake Anderson, Ken Marino, Tommy Dewey, Richa Moorjani, Aliyah Turner, Jake Picking.

Netflix announced that production has begun on Netflix's sequel series of A Different World in Atlanta, Georgia. The show will explore the lives and loves of a new generation at the iconic fictional HBCU.

The alumni cast Kadeem Hardison (A Different World, White Men Can't Jump), Jasmine Guy (A Different World, Harlem Nights), Darryl M. Bell (A Different World, School Daze), and Cree Summer (A Different World, Atlantis: The Lost Empire) will be joined by Charnele Brown (Old Gray Mare, The Reading, A Different World) and Jenifer Lewis (black-ish, What's Love Got to Do with It, and GOAT) of the original series. Additional guest stars to include Vincent Jamal Hooper as Ellington, Elijah J. Roberts as Jalen, Renee Harrison as Candace, Famecia Ward as Nellie Gaines, and Dasan Onyx Frazier as Xavier. Additional cast to be announced at a later date.

The series stars Maleah Joi Moon (Hell's Kitchen) as Deborah, Alijah Kai Haggins (Everybody Hates Chris) as Rashida, Cornell Young (Doing Life) as Shaquille, Kennedi Reece (TK) as Hazel, Jordan Aaron Hall (The Idea of You) as Amir and Chibuikem Uche (One Of Us Is Lying) as Kojo. Debbie Allen (Grey's Anatomy) - who directed 83 episodes of the original series and served as primary director from 1988-1993 - returns for the sequel. She will direct three episodes including the first episode.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Netflix, Running Point

SitcomsOnline Digest: Warner Now Set to Merge with Paramount, Not Netflix; X-Files Reboot Given Greenlight

  Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! This week, we're hearing about another media merger that seems to be on-again, off-again, a reboot of The X-Files, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• In the never ending story in which what looks like the ending always seems to be changing, Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery are said to be merging, though there are still some who think that this could be one of the biggest failed media mergers ever. (Hollywood Reporter)
• A reboot of The X-Files has been given the green light. (Deadline)
• Animal Control has been renewed for a fifth season. (TVLine)
• There is some new casting news for the upcoming reboot of A Different World. (Deadline)
• Adult Swim's Smiling Friends is coming to an end after three seasons. (Variety)
• Lauren Chapin, known for her role of Kathy on Father Knows Best, has died at age 80. (Hollywood Reporter)
• AspireTV is getting their first ever original sitcom, Savannah State of Mind. (SitcomsOnline)

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Animal Control, Father Knows Best, Miami Vice, Paramount, Savannah State of Mind, SitcomsOnline Digest, Smiling Friends, Ted, Warner Bros, X-Files

SitcomsOnline Digest: Chevy Chase "Hurt" By Not Being Invited to SNL 50th Anniversary; New Lineups for Antenna TV and Rewind TV

 Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! It's a very slow Christmas news week, but we have some news about a cast member of The Middle and Friends who has died, new year lineups for Antenna TV and Rewind TV, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• Chevy Chase, who built a reputation of being difficult to work with and had purportedly been banned from appearing on the show several times (but was often invited back anyway), says he is "hurt" that wasn't invited to appear on the SNL50: The Anniversary Special. (Entertainment Weekly)
• Pat Finn, who appeared on The Middle and Friends, has died. (Entertainment Weekly)
• We're learning more about the Netflix sequel to A Different World. (SitcomsOnline)
• The new year lineups for Antenna TV and Rewind TV (which start next week) have been released, and some of the moves will leave people confused as to the purpose of each channel. (SitcomsOnline)

• MeTV is having a "A Very Special Sunday" tomorrow with anniversary reunion specials (previously aired decades ago) of Happy Days, The Andy Griffith Show, I Love Lucy, and more.
• Catchy Comedy is celebrating a "new year" with a Catchy Binge of Newhart tomorrow.
• Catchy Comedy is also airing Here's Lucy starting Monday, paired with I Love Lucy and The Lucy Show every weekday.
• Antenna TV brings back One Day at a Time and Sanford & Son on Thursday, starting with a marathon of first episodes for all series on the network.
• The final episodes of Stranger Things arrive on Netflix on Wednesday.
• And of course, it is the new year, and that wouldn't be complete without Twilight Zone marathons, which you can find on both Heroes & Icons as well as Syfy later this week.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Antenna TV, Friends, Here's Lucy, Newhart, One Day at a Time, Rewind TV, Sanford and Son, Saturday Night Live, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Middle, Twilight Zone

GET Acquires Psych for January 2026; Details on Netflix's A Different World Sequel

GET ready! Psych starring James Roday Rodriguez and Dulé Hill is coming to GET this January, Tune in weeknights at 9pm & 10pm starting Monday, January 12. In the series, when the Santa Barbara police department hit a wall on a high profile kidnapping case, they reluctantly hire Shawn Spencer, the town's newest psychic detective, to help solve the crime.

As for the rest of the GET line-up, Monk moves to 6pm-9pm. Quantum Leap, The Rockford Files and Walker Texas Ranger all air during the day from 9am-6pm. In late night, The Rockford Files, Quincy ME, and Doc air from 11pm-6am. Sitcom wise, Good Times and Sanford & Son will be leaving the schedule after December. Enjoy them the last few days on GET!

Netflix announced that beloved cast members from A Different World (1987-1993) will reprise their roles in the upcoming sequel, which will explore the lives and loves of a new generation at the iconic fictional HBCU. When Deborah, Dwayne Wayne, and Whitley Gilbert's free-spirited, well-intentioned, yet rebellious youngest child, enters her freshman year at Hillman College, she finds the shadow of her parents difficult to escape as she sets out to build her own legacy, while having the time of her life, alongside a whole new generation of Hillman's best and brightest. 10 episodes have been ordered and the series will be a single-camera comedy.

· Kadeem Hardison (he/him) (A Different World, White Men Can't Jump) as Dwayne Wayne.
· Jasmine Guy (she/her) (A Different World, Harlem Nights) as Whitley Gilbert.
· Darryl M. Bell (he/him) (A Different World, School Daze) as Ron Johnson.
· Cree Summer (she/her) (A Different World, Atlantis: The Lost Empire) as Freddie Brooks


· Previously Announced Cast:
o Maleah Joi Moon (Hell's Kitchen) as Deborah
o Alijah Kai Haggins (Everybody Hates Chris) as Rashida
o Cornell Young (Doing Life) as Shaquille
o Kennedi Reece (TK) as Hazel
o Jordan Aaron Hall (The Idea of You) as Amir
o Chibuikem Uche (One Of Us Is Lying) as Kojo

Showrunner/Executive Producer/Writer: Felicia Pride (Grey's Anatomy, Queen Sugar). Director/Executive Producer: Debbie Allen (Grey's Anatomy) - who directed 83 episodes of the original series and served as primary director from 1998-1993 - returns for the sequel. She will direct three episodes including the first episode. Executive Producers: Writers from the original series Reggie Rock Bythewood and Gina Prince-Bythewood return as Executive Producers alongside Mandy Summers (That 90's Show, The Pradeeps of Pittsburgh) and Tom Werner (The Connors, Roseanne).

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, getTV, Good Times, Netflix, Psych, Sanford and Son

Cast Announced for Netflix's A Different World Sequel; Hulu's Sebastian Maniscalco Special Trailer

We're officially heading back to Hillman! Introducing the cast of A Different World, a new sequel series, coming soon to Netflix.

📚 Debbie Allen will return as a director and EP alongside showrunner and EP Felicia Pride (Grey's Anatomy, Bel-Air). Original series writers Reggie Rock Bythewood and Gina Prince-Bythewood will return as EPs with Mandy Summers and Tom Werner.

📚 Free-spirited freshman Deborah Wayne, daughter of Dwayne and Whitley, is setting out to build her own legacy alongside a whole new generation of Hillman's best and brightest. Tony winner Maleah Joi Moon (Hell’s Kitchen) will star as Deborah, the free-spirited, well-intentioned yet rebellious youngest child of Kadeem Hardison and Jasmine Guy's characters. Joining Moon are Alijah Kai (Everybody Hates Chris) as Rashida, Chibuikem Uche (One Of Us Is Lying) as Kojo, Cornell Young IV (Doing Life) as Shaquille, Jordan Aaron Hall (The Idea of You) as Amir, and newcomer Kennedi Reece as Hazel.

Hulu has released the official trailer and key art for Sebastian Maniscalco: It Ain't Right.

The latest special in the Hularious stand-up slate premieres Friday, November 21 on Hulu, and Hulu on Disney+ for bundle subscribers, in the US, and on Disney+ internationally. Filmed live at the legendary United Center arena in Chicago, Sebastian Maniscalco's It Ain't Right goes all in on family chaos, aging, and the little things that drive us all nuts - with his one-of-a-kind comedic bite.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Hulu, Netflix

SitcomsOnline Digest: Netflix Gives Pilot Order to A Different World Sequel; Malcolm in the Middle Reboot Recasts Role of Dewey

  Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! This week is mostly about reboots. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• Netflix has given a pilot order to a sequel to A Different World, which given how Netflix typically orders shows straight to series, is an unusual thing. (Variety)
• We've been talking about the Malcolm in the Middle reboot for some time, and now we're learning that the role of Dewey will be recast. (Variety)
• Even though it will have ultimately been 17 seasons from the beginning of Roseanne to the end of The Conners, Laurie Metcalf doesn't think that much time has been enough time to wrap up the storylines on the series. (Deadline)
• Is it time for a reboot of The Critic? Jon Lovitz thinks so. (Deadline)
• Adult Swim has renewed Common Side Effects for a second season. (Hollywood Reporter)
• It seems that broadcast daytime TV has mostly become court shows lately, and now the Amazon Prime series Tribunal Justice will be joining those lineups this fall, with clearance in 95% of the US. (Deadline)
• Even though it was previously renewed for a third season, After Midnight on CBS will be ending this summer, and CBS has decided that they will no longer air new programming in the 12:30 AM hour. (Hollywood Reporter)
• We're getting closer and closer to Pat Sajak's "final spin" on Celebrity Wheel of Fortune. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (MARCH 29 - APRIL 4)

• Tomorrow's binge on Catchy Comedy is Mama's Family.
• The first ten episodes of the Hulu series Mid-Century Modern are now available to stream.
• The Simpsons took a short hiatus on Fox so that Family Guy could have some time at 8 PM, but it returns tomorrow night (and Family Guy moves to 8:30).

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, After Midnight, Common Side Effects, Malcolm in the Middle, Mama's Family, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Conners, The Critic

SitcomsOnline Digest: A Sequel to A Different World and Reboot for Scrubs?; Cartoon Network Shuts Down Website

  Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! This week, we're learning about some reboots, a potential fourth season of Ted Lasso, the shutdown of the Cartoon Network website, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• We haven't had a lot of sequel/reboot news lately, but here's a new one: a sequel to A Different World is in the works at Netflix. (Deadline)
• When asked about a Scrubs reboot, creator Bill Lawrence has responded by saying "we're definitely going to do it." (Screen Rant)
• There could be a fourth season of Ted Lasso, but it's all in the hands of Jason Sudekis as to whether or not he wants to do it. (Deadline)
• About a month or so ago, the websites for all of the Paramount cable networks mostly shutdown, scrubbing all of the content and leaving behind just a basic website with the schedule and where to find the channel on your local cable operator, but now, Cartoon Network has gone much further and shut their website down completely and not even offering a schedule, and instead redirecting people to subscribe to Max. (Variety)
• That isn't quite all for Warner and their efforts to seemingly sunset their cartoon legacy, as they also announced late last week that the Boomerang streaming service is shutting down and merging into Max. (Variety)
• Steve Martin was the first person that came to mind for many people for playing the role of vice-presidential candidate Tim Walz on Saturday Night Live, though he has reportedly (or perhaps he is bluffing) declined, stating that he is "not an impressionist." (NBC News)
• We have our first look at Travis Kelce's new game show, Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity? (Deadline)
• Hulu has a full slate of new programming for the fall. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (AUGUST 10 - AUGUST 16)

• Catchy Comedy has a binge of My Three Sons this weekend, with episodes from the third and fourth season.
• Both Antenna TV and Rewind TV are going back to school with marathons this weekend, with Facts of Life on Antenna TV and Welcome Back, Kotter on Rewind TV.
• The third season of Bel-Air arrives Thursday on Peacock.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?, Cartoon Network, Saturday Night Live, Scrubs, SitcomsOnline Digest, Ted Lasso

E! Reunites TV Casts in Reunion Road Trip; Joseph Gordon-Levitt is Mr. Corman on Apple TV+

E!, the global, multi-platform brand for all things pop culture, reunites some of the most celebrated TV casts as its new event series Reunion Road Trip, launches on Thursday, June 10 at 9pm ET/PT. The four-part special event series catches up with the beloved cast members as they reconnect with old friends, reflect on their trailblazing shows that helped shape the television landscape, and share surprising revelations and behind-the-scenes scoop. With exclusive, candid conversations with the stars as viewers have never seen them before, each episode delves into their earliest days from auditions to first impressions, their continuing legacy and everything in between. Catch the casts of A Different World, Scrubs and more reunite!

Below is the episode rollout:

Reunion Road Trip: With All of My Children - Premieres Thursday, June 10 at 9pm ET/PT
Fan favorites Rebecca Budig, Eva LaRue, Cameron Mathison and Jacob Young come together at an exclusive Hollywood mansion to celebrate the show's 50th anniversary with surprise visits from former cast members Susan Lucci, Alicia Minshew, Debbi Morgan, Kelly Ripa and Darnell Williams. As one of the most unforgettable soap operas of all time, the group dishes on the show's origins, off-camera romances and series cliffhanger that always left fans wanting more.

Reunion Road Trip: Queer Eye for the Straight Guy - Premieres Thursday, June 17 at 9pm ET/PT
The Original Fab Five, Ted Allen, Kyan Douglas, Thom Filicia, Carson Kressley and Jai Rodriguez reassemble in Los Angeles as they makeover Jai for his 40th birthday. As the group works their magic, they think back to their most heartfelt, meaningful makeovers and the impact on the LGBTQ community then and now.

Reunion Road Trip: It's A Different World - Premieres Thursday, June 24 at 9pm ET/PT
For a very special college homecoming, alumni Sinbad and Kadeem Hardison invite Darryl M. Bell, Jasmine Guy, Dawnn Lewis and Cree Summer for an intimate, sit-down discussion to look back on the sitcom's overall success and long-lasting cultural impact on generations by tackling a range of substantive issues and giving a voice to the Black community. They are joined by the show's director and executive producer Debbie Allen and executive producer Susan Fales-Hill.

Reunion Road Trip: Back in Scrubs - Premieres Thursday, July 1 at 9pm ET/PT
Cast members Zach Braff, Sarah Chalke and Donald Faison reconvene as they go on a quest to track down Rowdy, the show's treasured taxidermied dog. Along the way, they reminisce on their time on the groundbreaking sitcom, spill their juiciest behind-the-scenes stories and are surprised by a few of their favorite co-stars, Robert Maschio and Judy Reyes.

Apple Original comedy Mr. Corman, created by, directed by and starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, to make global debut Friday, Aug. 6 on Apple TV+ Mr. Corman, the highly anticipated 10-episode Apple Original comedy series created by, directed by and starring Emmy and SAG Award winner Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who also executive produces, is set to premiere globally on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021 on Apple TV+. The series will debut with the first three episodes, followed by one new episode weekly, every Friday. Mr. Corman follows the days and nights of Josh Corman, played by Gordon-Levitt, an artist at heart but not by trade. A career in music hasn't panned out, and he teaches fifth grade at a public school in the San Fernando Valley. His ex-fiancé Megan has moved out and his high school buddy Victor has moved in. He knows he has a lot to be thankful for, but finds himself struggling nevertheless through anxiety, loneliness and a sinking suspicion that he sucks as a person. Darkly funny, oddly beautiful and deeply heartfelt, this relatable dramedy speaks for our contemporary generation of 30-somethings - rich with good intentions, poor with student loans and yearning to become real grown-ups sometime before they die.

In addition to Gordon-Levitt, Mr. Corman stars Arturo Castro, Debra Winger, Bobby Hall a.k.a. Logic, Alexander Jo, Juno Temple, Jamie Chung, Shannon Woodward and Hector Hernandez. The series marks a return to TV for Gordon-Levitt, who grew up on the small screen with roles on multiple series, most notably his co-starring turn on the long-running NBC comedy 3rd Rock from the Sun. The comedy is created by, directed by and executive produced by Joseph Gordon Levitt along with Bruce Eric Kaplan, Ravi Nandan and Inman Young. Pamela Harvey-White serves as producer.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Apple TV+, E!, Mr. Corman, Scrubs

Remembering TV Legend Diahann Carroll; Marvel and Hulu Bring New Series

Actress, singer, model and activist Diahann Carroll, who starred as Julia Baker in Julia and as Dominique Deveraux in Dynasty, has died. She died of cancer on October 4 in Los Angeles, California. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997. Ms. Carroll was 84.

Carroll made her television debut at age 18 on January 8, 1954, as a singing contestant on the Dumont Television Network's talent show Chance of a Lifetime. She appeared four consecutive weeks, winning three times. She made guest appearances on variety series and talk shows including The Red Skelton Hour, The Ed Sullivan Show, The Garry Moore Show, The Merv Griffin Show, The Danny Kaye Show, The Hollywood Palace, The Dean Martin Show, The Mike Douglas Show and The Carol Burnett Show.

Some of her early television drama guest appearances included General Electric Theater, Peter Gunn, Naked City and The Eleventh Hour. She received her first Emmy nomination in 1963 for Outstanding Single Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role for her appearance in Naked City.

She was the first black woman to star in a weekly series in a non-stereotypical role in the 1968-1971 NBC sitcom Julia. Carroll played widowed single mother Julia Baker. She worked as a nurse in a doctor's office at a large aerospace company called Astrospace Industries. Carroll won a Golden Globe Award in 1969 for Best TV Star - Female for the role. She received an Emmy nomination for the Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Comedy Series category in 1969. The single-camera series also starred Lloyd Nolan, Marc Copage, Michael Link, Betty Beaird, Mary Wickes, Ned Glass (1968-1970) and Lurene Tuttle (1968-1970).

Carroll starred as Dominique Deveraux in the ABC prime time soap opera Dynasty. She appeared in 74 episodes from 1984 to 1987. Dominique Deveraux was the mixed-race jet set diva and half-sister of Blake Carrington (John Forsythe). Billy Dee Williams played her onscreen husband, Brady Lloyd. She also appeared in seven episodes of the spin-off series The Colbys.

She had a recurring role as Marion Gilbert, Whitley's (Jasmine Guy) mother, in nine episodes of the NBC sitcom A Different World from 1989 to 1993. She received her third Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for the role in 1989.

Some of her other sitcom guest appearances included The Love Boat, Webster, The Sinbad Show, Evening Shade, Half & Half, Whoopi and Back to You.

Carroll had a recurring role as Ida Grayson in seven episodes of the syndicated western drama Lonesome Dove: The Series from 1994 to 1995. She starred as Justice Angela DeSett in the short-lived 2002 ABC legal drama The Court. She had a recurring role as Jane Burke, the demanding mother of Dr. Preston Burke (Isaiah Washington), in five episodes of Grey's Anatomy from 2006 to 2007. Carroll played an elderly widow named June Ellington in 25 episodes of USA Network's White Collar from 2009 to 2014.

Some of her other television drama guest appearances included Burke's Law, Touched by an Angel, Twice in a Lifetime, Strong Medicine, Soul Food and Diary of a Single Mom.

She made her film debut in 1954's Carmen Jones. Some of her other film credits included Porgy and Bess, Paris Blues, Hurry Sundown, The Split, Claudine, The Five Heartbeats, Eve's Bayou, Peeples and The Masked Saint. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for the film Claudine (1974) in 1975.

Carroll won a Tony Award for best actress, a first for a black woman, in 1962 for her role as Barbara Woodruff in the Broadway musical No Strings. Some of her other theater credits included House of Flowers, Agnes of God, Love Letters and Sunset Boulevard.

She was interviewed for The Interviews: An Oral History of Television on March 3, 1998.

Ms. Carroll was a true TV legend and pioneer. She was wonderful in Julia, Dynasty and her many other television and film roles. We thank her for the many hours of entertainment she brought us during her long career. She will be deeply missed.

Share your memories on our Julia message board. View photos in our galleries.

Aspire is airing Julia all day Saturday in remembrance of star Diahann Carroll. The series airs on their regular schedule. View a listing of upcoming episodes.

Marvel Television and Hulu have announced casting for Marvel's Helstrom - the live-action series based on the popular Marvel comic book. The series will mark Marvel's first foray into terror and is slated for debut in 2020. In Marvel's Helstrom, Daimon and Ana Helstrom are the son and daughter of a mysterious and powerful serial killer. The siblings have a complicated dynamic as they track down the terrorizing worst of humanity - each with their attitude and skills. Tom Austen as Daimon Helstrom - A professor of ethics who moonlights as an exorcist, Daimon has no illusions about saving a world he has no patience for; he just hopes he can help a few of the people closest to him. In his battle against a hidden world, Daimon is determined to root out demons as they arise, and will not stop until they're vanquished.

Sydney Lemmon as Ana Helstrom - By day, Ana runs a successful auction house and suffers no fools, but her true interest lies in hunting down those who hurt others. Traumatized by her father as a child, Ana is driven to rid the world of those like him, even as she secretly worries her father will return. Elizabeth Marvel as Victoria Helstrom - Plagued by demons both real and imagined, Victoria has been institutionalized for twenty years. While she struggles to be herself, she hopes to repair her relationship with her children. Robert Wisdom as Caretaker - Caretaker is a guardian of knowledge of the occult. He uses his knowledge and his relationship with Ana to help keep demonic forces at bay.

June Carryl as Dr. Louise Hastings - A psychologist with a strong faith but an open mind, Hastings is head of the psychiatric hospital where Victoria is being monitored. She has watched over the Helstrom family for years, caring for them as best she can. Ariana Guerra as Gabriella Rosetti - A woman balancing logic and faith, Gabriella arrives from the Vatican to help Daimon and Hastings uncover cases of demonic possession. She wants to save everyone she can, including Daimon. Alain Uy as Chris Yen - Yen is Ana's business partner and her closest friend -- some would say surrogate brother. He carries out the bulk of the auction house's responsibilities and assists Ana with whatever she needs.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Dynasty, Hulu, Julia, Marvel, Obits

ABC Fall Pilot Review: Single Parents - Premieres Wednesday (Sept. 26); Lifetime Reunites TV Casts in Holiday Movies

Single Parents - Wednesdays at 9:30PM ET/PT on ABC
Premieres Wednesday, September 26, 2018 at 9:30PM ET/PT

by Pavan

This ensemble comedy follows a group of single parents as they lean on each other to help raise their 7-year-old kids and maintain some kind of personal lives outside of parenthood. The series begins when the group meets Will Cooper, a 30-something guy who's been so focused on raising his daughter that he's lost sight of who he is as a man. When the other single parents see just how far down the rabbit hole of PTA, parenting and princesses Will has gone, they band together to get him out in the world and make him realize that being a great parent doesn't mean sacrificing everything about your own identity.

Cast Details:

Taran Killam as Will Cooper
Leighton Meester as Angie D'Amato
Kimrie Lewis as Poppy Banks
Jake Choi as Miggy Park
Marlow Barkley as Sophie Cooper
Tyler Wladis as Graham D'Amato
Devin Trey Campbell as Rory Banks
Mia Allan as Emma Fogerty
Ella Allan as Amy Fogerty
Brad Garrett as Douglas Fogerty

Taran Killam (Will) is perhaps best-known for his scene-stealing work as a series regular on Saturday Night Live for six seasons. He has also appeared on How I Met Your Mother, Community, Scrubs, New Girl, Drunk History, AP Bio, MADtv and the Disney Channel Original Movie Stuck in the Suburbs. Killam voiced the lead in the PBS series Nature Cat, as well as multiple characters in the animated film Underdogs.

Leighton Meester (Angie) is an actress and musician who was last seen in Fox's comedy Making History. She is known for her fan-favorite role as Blair Waldorf on Gossip Girl and starred on Broadway opposite James Franco in the critically acclaimed revival of Of Mice and Men.

Kimrie Lewis (Poppy) played reporter Ashley on ABC's Scandal for five seasons. Kimrie has made numerous television guest appearances, including Superstore, 2 Broke Girls, The Mindy Project, New Girl and Raven's Home, to name a few. She starred alongside Kerry Washington, Craig Robinson and David Alan Grier in the Lionsgate film Peeples and will appear on IFC's Brockmire, with Hank Azaria.

Jake Choi (Miggy) performed on stage all over NYC and in film and television before relocating to Los Angeles, where he booked Single Parents as his first series regular role.

Marlow Barkley (Sophie) has done voiceover work for The Loud House on Nickelodeon. This summer, she will be performing as Kate in The Hollywood Bowl's production of Annie.

Tyler Wladis (Graham) is most recognized for his role as Ralphie's little brother Randy in Fox’s A Christmas Story Live (2017). He has performed in many regional stage productions. He was featured on an episode of Nick Jr.'s Sunny Day and did voice-over work for the feature film It Comes at Night.

Devin Trey Campbell (Rory) began his professional acting career at the age of 7 as Young Lola in Broadway's Kinky Boots. Having held the role for two years, he decided to transition to television and can be seen in projects such as Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Bea Unicorn by Sesame Studios and Nickelodeon's Shimmer and Shine.

Ella and Mia Allan (Amy and Emma) are already quite accomplished in the film and television industry, having landed numerous supporting, recurring and series-regular roles all by the age of 7 years old. Ella and Mia are known for their roles as Bobbi Sparks on Young Sheldon (CBS), Ellie and Anna Solano on Jane the Virgin (CW), Norma Jean on The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe (Lifetime), Nora Braverman on Parenthood (NBC) and Baby Thomas on Sons of Anarchy (FX).

Brad Garrett (Douglas) won three Emmys® and a SAG Award for his role as Robert Barone on the iconic television series Everybody Loves Raymond. He was also nominated for an Emmy and SAG Award for his portrayal of The Great One in the telefilm Gleason. Garrett is a featured regular on season two of Showtime's I'm Dying Up Here. He also starred on the Fox sitcom 'Til Death.

Pilot Plot:

"Pilot" (airs Wednesday, September 26 at 9:30PM ET/PT)

Will Cooper has been so focused on raising his daughter, Sophie, he's lost sight of who he is as a man and has headed deep into the parental vortex. When the other single parents – Angie, Douglas, Poppy and Jake – at his daughter's school see just how far down the rabbit hole of PTA, parenting and princesses Will has gone, they band together to get him out in the world and make him realize that being a great parent doesn’t mean sacrificing everything about your own identity.

Analysis:

A premiere episode of a comedy series should have three things to look for in a pilot episode: a good set-up to the series, being funny, and having a cast that is likable. And this pilot does a very good job of that. We meet Will Cooper, a new member of a group of single parents, and he meshes well with them. The pilot is definitely funny and I see a lot of good funniness still to come. It has the Modern Family-feel to it (and it will follow that comedy on ABC every Wednesday night). Modern Family is probably the last epic comedy pilot we have seen, as it was done to perfection. This pilot is no where near that, but we can't really compare it to that. What we can do is compare it to this year's comedy batch, and this is surely the best of the bunch. And this batch of comedies this year are not the duds from last year either, as there are some good ones this year. We have a very likable cast of characters in Single Parents. The series has about 10 regular players, so it will get some time to get used to everyone...but all of the children on this series are amazing and funny. They join ABC's amazing child actors line-up, as nearly all of their comedies have great child characters (see Fresh off the Boat, Speechless, black-ish, and more).

Taran Killam, Leighton Meester and Brad Garrett are all recognizable names on this series, and they are of course good, but don't overlook the performances of the children and the scene stealer Jake Choi as Miggy. Killam, the children, and Choi are clearly the stars of this pilot. The pilot is funny and has the nice heartwarming feel to it, like most ABC comedies. I think it will even get funnier as the episodes go along and we learn more about the characters and their dynamics. As I feel Meester and Garrett will have more of a bigger role in future episodes. I think Garrett could have the magic of Ed O'Neill from Modern Family if we see more of him.

Conclusion:

Overall, this is a solid pilot and near the excellence level. It's certainly not all there yet, but by far has the most potential. It tackles the dynamic of families of single parents, as we really haven't seen a comedy fully devoted to that yet. ABC has heavily promoted this comedy as much as they have A Million Little Things (the fall's best new show) and Nathan Fillion's The Rookie. This comedy is one to watch. And people will watch as it follows Modern Family and leads into the most talked about new drama A Million Little Things. Killam shines with the kids. Hey Fox, this is the show with "the cool kids." We can't wait to see where this show goes!

Final Numbers (out of 5 stars):

Watchability: 4/5
Funniness: 3.5/5
Overall: 4/5

Discuss the show after you watch it on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 at 9:30PM ET/PT on our message board.

Related Links:

ABC Official Site

TV.com

epguides.com

Internet Movie Database

Wikipedia

Single Parents Photo Gallery

Preview:

Christmas is coming early this year! Lifetime sleighs the 2018 holiday season this year with the network's It's a Wonderful Lifetime lineup, featuring 14 all-new original movies and nine acquired films. Kicking off on November 21 with a special week featuring five nights of premieres, each week of the holiday season will feature new movies every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Bringing together cast members from fan favorite shows like One Tree Hill, Sister, Sister, 7th Heaven, The Cosby Show and A Different World, Lifetime is making a list and checking it twice to create new movies that will soon become holiday classics. Featuring all-star casts headlined by names such as Toni Braxton, Melissa Joan Hart, Megan Hilty, Tia Mowry-Hardict, Sarah Drew, and Vanessa Lachey among many others, its snow wonder audiences are going to be ready to deck the halls and sing joy to the world all season long! Lifetime will also present the special, 'Tis the Season: A One Tree Hill Reunion on November 22, following the premiere of the original movie, The Christmas Contract starring OTH cast members. A preview special of the slate for It's a Wonderful Lifetime will air on November 17 at 10pm ET/PT. Highlights include:

It all starts off with the preview special on Nov. 17. What if Lifetime never made Christmas movies? In this special, hosted by Melissa Joan Hart, we will be taken on a journey that explores how terrible life would be without Lifetime Christmas movies to bring us holiday cheer. Melissa will be visited by the "host" of Lifetime Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and along the way, she will preview the 14 exciting movies that are coming to Lifetime this holiday season. It's a Sister, Sister reunion in My Christmas Inn, starring Tia Mowry-Hardict, Jackée Harry, and Tim Reid on Nov. 21. Rob Mayes & Erin Gray also star. In The Christmas Contract on Nov 22 starring One Tree Hill alums Hilarie Burton, Robert Buckley, Danneel Ackles, Antwon Tanner and Jordan Ladd, Cheryl Ladd, Bruce Boxleitner, Jason London, Hunter Burke, Teri Wyble & Ritchie Montgomery with special musical appearance from Tyler Hilton. Then the actual reunion special airs at 10pm. The Tree Hill Ravens are back together to celebrate the Christmas season on Lifetime. In this special one-hour reunion, Hilarie Burton, Tyler Hilton, Danneel Ackles, Antwon Tanner of The Christmas Contract and Stephen Colletti of Hometown Christmas, reunite for a special evening that will include a few surprise special guests.

Two members of The Cosby Show cast reunite on Nov. 25 in Jingle Belle starring Tatyana Ali, Cornelius Smith Jr., Loretta Devine, Valarie Pettiford, Obba Babatunde, and Cosby Show stars Keshia Knight Pulliam & Tempestt Bledsoe. Then A Different World cast members Kadeem Hardison & Jasmine Guy reunite in The Christmas Pact on Dec. 2 starring Kyla Pratt and Jarod Joseph. Other stars featured include Barry Watson, Beverley Mitchell, Marissa Winokur, Alexandra Breckenridge, June Squibb, Sharon Lawrence, John Schneider, Jason London, Towanda Braxton, Conchata Ferrell, Gloria Reuben, Rachel Boston, Patricia Richardson, Caroline Rhea, Michael Gross, Melissa Gilbert, Bethany Joy Lenz and more. See complete movie info for all of Lifetime's It's a Wonderful Lifetime!

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: 7th Heaven, A Different World, ABC, Cosby Show, Lifetime, One Tree Hill, Pilot Reviews, Single Parents, Sister Sister

A Different World, Happily Divorced Coming to Logo in September; FX and FXX Empire, Simpsons Labor Day Marathons

The multiple Emmy-nominated A Different World debuted as the #1 new show of its premiere season, staying at #1 in its time period for five consecutive seasons, with Jasmine Guy and Kadeem Hardison leading the cast. Now that series is coming to Logo for rerun play beginning in September. Effective the night of Tuesday, September 15 the '90s comedy will air on Logo on most nights from about 1am-4am. A Different World can currently be seen on cable on TV One, but we do not know just yet if they will continue to air it when Logo begins it this September. A Different World is also airing on digital multicast network Bounce TV, but that is not a cable network. Logo of course airs many other sitcoms like Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Bewitched, I Dream of Jeannie, The Facts of Life, Soap, Designing Women, Will & Grace, The Golden Girls and Roseanne. Also, the canceled TV Land sitcom Happily Divorced will air on Logo beginning Wednesday, Sept. 2 from about 6-9pm every Wednesday. After 18 years of marriage, Fran (Fran Drescher) is shocked to discover that her husband Peter (John Michael Higgins) is gay. She must deal with this bombshell & learn to juggle both her new relationships & ex-husband who remains in their house post-divorce.

Hit. Sensation. Triumph. Smash. Phenomenon. Lots of words are used to describe popular television series, but in 2015, a new word summed up success better than anything else: Empire. Before the epic series' second season premieres on September 23 on Fox, get ready for the television event of the fall season that with FX's exclusive marathon of all twelve binge-worthy back-to-back episodes of television's biggest, boldest, brashest series. This Labor Day, FX has the Empire from 12pm-12am on Monday, Sept. 7! Remember the time Homer was Mr. Burns's assistant? Or when the Germans bought the nuclear plant? Or when Marge ran Moe's, or when Homer was a tow truck driver, or one of the family's many other wacky jobs? Of course you do. And there is no better way to enjoy your day off than by watching a relaxing marathon of The Simpsons' greatest work-themed episodes on FXX on Monday, Sept. 7 from 7am-2am. Because the next day, you have to go back to work (where you can only watch The Simpsons at your desk on FXNOW).

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, FX, FXX, Happily Divorced, Logo, The Simpsons

Bounce Acquires Sitcoms for January 2015, Roc, Different World, Parent 'Hood, Hughleys; ABC Family Picks Up New Drama Recovery Road

Finally! In its first foray into off-network series acquisition, Bounce TV has landed the television rights to four shows in individual, multi-year licensing agreements they announced. In the deals, the nation's first-ever and rapidly-expanding broadcast television network for African Americans acquires Roc (72 episodes) and The Parent 'Hood (90 episodes) from Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution (WBDTD), A Different World (144 episodes) from Carsey-Werner Distribution and The Hughleys (89 episodes) from Twentieth Television. The four popular series will be scheduled together to create a new line-up leading into prime time, with the network airing two episodes of each show back-to-back Monday-Friday starting at 5:00pm beginning Monday, January 5, 2015. It kicks off with Roc from 5:00-6:00pm, followed by The Parent 'Hood from 6:00-7:00pm. A Different World will air from 7:00-8:00pm into The Hughleys from 8:00-9:00pm. This will be the first time all four series will air on a digital multicast network.

The critically-acclaimed Roc aired originally on Fox and stars Charles S. Dutton as Baltimore garbage collector Roc Emerson and Ella Joyce as his wife, with appearances by a then-unknown Jamie Foxx. The Parent 'Hood was part of the original Wednesday night lineup that helped launch The WB network, starring Robert Townsend and Suzzanne Douglas. The multiple Emmy-nominated A Different World debuted as the #1 new show of its premiere season, staying at #1 in its time period for five consecutive seasons, with Jasmine Guy and Kadeem Hardison leading the cast. Based on D. L. Hughley's real-life experiences, The Hughleys stars the comedian and Elise Neal as his wife who move their family from the inner to city to the Los Angeles suburbs with hilarious results. Bounce TV features programming mix of original series, theatrical motion pictures, documentaries, specials and now off-net series. Bounce TV is currently seen in 90 markets, including all of the top African American television markets, 90% of African American television homes and 73% of the total television homes in the United States.

ABC Family has picked up a new scripted drama to series Recovery Road. This announcement comes on the heels of the recently announced pick-up of the docu-series My Transparent Life, as the network continues to grow its impressive slate of original programming. Based on the popular young adult novel by Blake Nelson, Recovery Road focuses on a teenage girl dealing with addiction. Maddie has a reputation as a party girl who doesn't think she has a problem, until she's confronted one day by her school guidance counselor and is forced to choose between expulsion and rehab. Maddie makes the difficult decision to live with other recovering addicts at a rehab facility while facing the daily pressures of her teenage life.

ABC Family says casting will be announced at a later date, but their orginal announcement a few months back mentioned the series stars Samantha Logan (666 Park Avenue) as Maddie, Sebastian De Souza (Skins) as Wes, Kyla Pratt (One on One, Fat Albert) as Trish, Sharon Leal (Boston Public) as Charlotte, Alexis Carra (Mixology) as Cynthia, Justin Prentice (Malibu Country) as Dallas, Caroline Sunshine (Shake It Up) as Emily, and also guest stars Doug Savant (Desperate Housewives, Melrose Place) as Alan. We shall see if this cast remains intact or if we will see some changes to this. Stay tuned.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, ABC Family, Bounce TV, Hughleys, Parent'hood, Roc, The Parent 'Hood

SitcomsOnline Digest: Cosby, A Different World, and More Now on Hulu Plus; Fox Renews Three Sitcoms

• Hulu Plus (Hulu's paid subscription service) has expanded their offerings from the Carsey-Werner library, providing streaming episodes of some of their popular series that were aren't seen as often on DVD and in syndication. Among these new offerings are Cosby, Cybill, A Different World, and Grace Under Fire. (Hulu)
• Fox gave an early fall renewal to three of their sitcoms this week, including one that appeared to be doomed. This week, it was announced that Brooklyn Nine-Nine, New Girl, and The Mindy Project are all being renewed. (Deadline)
• Game show host Geoff Edwards, best known for hosting game shows such as Jackpot!, The New Treasure Hunt, and Chain Reaction, died this week at the age of 83. Edwards was no stranger to the sitcom world, though, having appeared in episodes of Petticoat Junction, I Dream of Jeannie, and Diff'rent Strokes. (ABC News)
• Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, who played Kelso and Jackie on That '70s Show (and, by the way, are now engaged in real life) will reunite in the sitcom world on an upcoming episode of Two and a Half Men. (SitcomsOnline)

HOME MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS

• Shout! Factory released some details about their May 27 release of The Bob Newhart Show - The Complete Series. The set will include many special features, such as commentaries, the unaired pilot, a new group "therapy session" interview, a gag reel, a 40 page booklet, and more.

RECENT HOME MEDIA REVIEWS ON SITCOMSONLINE

• The Cosby Show - Seasons 1 and 2:  The Huxtables return to DVD in this value-priced release from Mill Creek that presents every episode from the first two seasons in unedited form.

MARCH 11 HOME MEDIA RELEASES

• Dennis the Menace (animated) - Volume 1 (DVD, $12.98): There have been a few home media releases of this animated series from the 80s, but for the first time, Mill Creek is bringing all of the first 33 episodes to one collection.
• In the Heat of the Night - Seasons 2 and 3 (DVD, $34.96); In the Heat of the Night - Season 6 (DVD, $24.96); In the Heat of the Night - Season 7 (DVD, $24.96): These three releases from TGG bring many of the unreleased episodes of the series to DVD, although many episodes are not included due to music rights issues.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, Bob Newhart Show, Cosby, Cybill, Grace Under Fire, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Mindy Project