Photo credit: www.goldderby.com
Gold Derby’s top news stories for February 20, 2025.
Amazon MGM Studios Takes Creative Reins of James Bond Franchise
Amazon MGM Studios has officially assumed control over the iconic James Bond movie franchise. Although the renowned producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli will step back from daily operations, they will retain ownership of the franchise.
In a press release, the studio announced, “Amazon MGM Studios, Michael G. Wilson, and Barbara Broccoli have established a joint venture to manage the James Bond intellectual property rights. All involved parties will remain co-owners of the franchise. Following the completion of the transaction, Amazon MGM Studios will take on the creative leadership of the Bond series.”
“James Bond has been an emblematic figure in cinema for over 60 years,” stated Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios. “We extend our gratitude to the late Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman for their foundational work in bringing Bond to theaters worldwide, and to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for their unwavering commitment to sustaining the franchise that has garnered dedicated fans everywhere. We look forward to advancing this treasured legacy and introducing the next chapter of 007 to a global audience.”
Wilson remarked, “After nearly 60 wonderful years in the James Bond business, I am stepping back to dedicate time to art and charitable endeavors. Both Barbara and I believe that it is the right moment for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to drive Bond into the future.”
Broccoli added, “My life has been devoted to nurturing and expanding the remarkable legacy bequeathed to Michael and me by our father, producer Cubby Broccoli. I have had the privilege of collaborating with several exceptionally talented actors portraying 007, along with thousands of wonderful artists in the industry. With the conclusion of _No Time to Die_ and Michael’s retirement from producing, I feel it’s time to focus on my other passions.”
Hulu Renews Hit Drama Paradise for Second Season
Hulu has greenlit a second season for its acclaimed original drama series Paradise. The announcement was made by the Emmy-winning star and executive producer, Sterling K. Brown, on Instagram. The show’s first season finale will air on Hulu on March 4, and it is set to have a complete run on ABC starting April 7 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.
This political thriller unfolds in a tranquil community home to some of the world’s elite. However, the peace is shattered by a startling murder that leads to a tense investigation. The cast includes James Marsden, Julianne Nicholson, Sarah Shahi, Nicole Brydon Bloom, Aliyah Mastin, and Percy Daggs IV.
Prime Video Showcases First-Look Images and Premiere Date for The Bondsman Starring Kevin Bacon
Prime Video has unveiled first-look images from its upcoming series The Bondsman, produced by Blumhouse Television and starring Kevin Bacon. All eight episodes will be released on April 3, 2025, exclusively on Prime Video.
Bacon portrays Hub Halloran, a bounty hunter who is brought back to life by the Devil. His mission is to capture escaped demons from Hell. Throughout his journey, Hub discovers the roots of his own condemnation, leading him to seek redemption in life, love, and country music.
The series also features Jennifer Nettles, Damon Herriman, Beth Grant, Maxwell Jenkins, and Jolene Purdy.
Peacock Drops Official Trailer for Limited Series Long Bright River Starring Amanda Seyfried
Long Bright River is a thriller that centers on Mickey, played by Amanda Seyfried, a police officer patrolling a Philadelphia area significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic. A string of local murders prompts her to investigate deeper connections to her past. The trailer has been released to build anticipation.
Owen Wilson’s Golf Comedy Stick Sets Premiere on Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has revealed a sneak peek of Stick, a new golf-themed comedy series led by Owen Wilson, who also serves as an executive producer. The first season consists of 10 episodes, debuting globally with three episodes on June 4, followed by weekly releases.
Wilson plays Pryce Cahill, a once-promising golfer who faces setbacks in both his career and personal life. His journey intersects with a troubled teenage golf prodigy named Santi, and the show is described as a heartfelt comedy about relationships within the golf world.
Prime Video Reveals Premiere Date for Adult Animated Series #1 Happy Family USA
Prime Video has announced the premiere of the adult animated series #1 Happy Family USA, with all eight episodes launching on April 17 in over 240 countries. Co-created by Ramy Youssef and Pam Brady, the show offers a satirical and comedic look at the Muslim-American experience.
The series follows the overly enthusiastic Hussein family navigating the post-9/11 landscape, humorously portraying their attempts to fit into a society that views them with suspicion. The cast includes Ramy Youssef, Alia Shawkat, Mandy Moore, Chris Redd, Salma Hindy, Randa Jarrar, Akaash Singh, and Whitmer Thomas.
NAACP Image Awards Announce Non-Televised Winners: Beyoncé, Blu Ivy Carter, and Others Recognized
The NAACP Image Awards held a two-night pre-awards event, revealing winners in various non-televised categories. Prominent honors went to Beyoncé for Outstanding Female Artist and Outstanding Album (_Cowboy Carter_), while her daughter, Blu Ivy Carter, earned recognition for Best Character Voice-Over Performance (_Mufasa: The Lion King_). The event was streamed on the NAACP Image Awards YouTube channel, celebrating Black excellence and achievement.
Below is a list of selected winners from the pre-awards show:
Outstanding Female Artist: Beyoncé
Outstanding Male Artist: Chris Brown
Outstanding New Artist: Doechii
Outstanding Jazz Album: _Portrait_, Samara Joy
Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song: “Working for Me”, Tamela Mann
Outstanding Duo, Group, or Collaboration (Traditional): Adam Blackstone & Fantasia, “Summertime”
Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance (Motion Picture): Blue Ivy Carter, _Mufasa: The Lion King_
Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture: Ebony Obsidian, _The Six Triple Eight_
The upcoming 56th NAACP Image Awards ceremony is set to air live on February 22 at 8:00 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS.
Source
www.goldderby.com