Bertie Gregory Opens Up About His Epic Adventures

By Zach Johnson

Talk about a wild life!

In Epic Adventures with Bertie Gregory, which is now streaming on Disney+, National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory takes viewers on epic and nail-biting journeys through some of the most spectacular and secretive corners of this wild world. For weeks at a time, the BAFTA Award-winning cinematographer immersed himself in animals’ lives, embedding himself in some of the harshest environments on Earth.

Filming the multipart adventure series allowed Gregory to do everything from braving the icy terrain of Antarctica in search of the biggest gathering of whales ever filmed to coming face-to-face with specialist buffalo-hunting lions in Zambia. “As a wildlife cinematographer, you can be a specialist or a generalist, and I really like doing lots of different things,” he says. “This series really allowed us to go after a lot of different subjects, environments, and habitats, whether underwater, in a jungle, or in the arctic.”

It should come as no surprise that, at times, the job puts Gregory and his crew in some precarious situations. “We had quite a few hairy encounters,” the 29-year-old admits. “The one that really sticks out is when we were filming the lion episode in Zambia. I came back to my room at camp, with my head torch on, and there was a crocodile in my bed! I can’t say that’s happened to me before. I went charging out of the room to find one of our guides. I’d love to tell you I was really brave, but I wasn’t.”

Gregory, who is already hard at work on Season 2, is excited for viewers to join him on his ambitious odyssey around the world. “I really hope I can inspire people to get outside and spend time with nature and realize just how important it is for us,” Gregory says. “In this series, we’re not just showing you the adventure or the amazing animal behavior. We’re also meeting scientists and conservationists who are doing incredible things to make sure that the animal characters we meet go on to have incredible lives.”

Let’s Roll! Behind the Scenes of Disney Junior’s New Series Firebuds

By Andie Hagemann

Sound the alarm, because an all-new animated series is coming to Disney Junior! From Disney Branded Television, Firebuds follows a team of young first responders and their talking vehicle sidekicks. Set in a fantastical world where talking vehicles live, work, and play with the humans who drive them, Firebuds follows a boy named Bo (voiced by Declan Whaley) and his fire-engine best friend Flash (voiced by Terrence Little Gardenhigh) as they team up with their first-responder pals to help others in their community with problems big and small. Each episode is comprised of two 11-minute stories that showcase the importance of teamwork; helping fellow citizens; and volunteerism.

Firebuds premieres Wednesday, September 21, at 10:30 a.m. ET/PT with a simulcast on Disney Channel and Disney Junior—and an initial batch of episodes will be available the same day on Disney+. Read on for a peek behind the series with Emmy® Award-winning creator and executive producer Craig Gerber:

You’ve created several iconic series for Disney Junior, including Elena of Avalor and Sofia the First, but how did you begin your journey at The Walt Disney Company?

Craig Gerber (CG): I first started at Disney working on the Tinker Bell movies. I had been a live-action screenwriter for many years. I always loved animation when I was a kid; it was really something I fell in love with, but I couldn’t draw very well, so I never thought to pursue it. In 2009, I wrote on the movie that eventually became The Pirate Fairy. While I was there, I met some other folks on the TV side—and I got the opportunity to create Sofia the First, then Elena of Avalor, and now Firebuds.

A young boy smiles and stands in front of a white desk. He wears a yellow firefighter suit and black firefighter helmet.

What inspired you to create Firebuds?

CG: All my children were obsessed with trash trucks, police cars, and fire trucks—especially my youngest son, who is 7 now. When he was 3 years old, he was just obsessed with fire trucks; he would dress up in a fire chief outfit, carry around a toy firetruck, and talk to it like it was his best friend. That got me thinking [about] how happy he would be if that firetruck came to life—and not an adult firetruck, but as a kid firetruck that could be his best friend—and that was the germ from which Firebuds sprung.

Who are the main characters, and how do they all tie in together?

CG: The main characters are a young boy named Bo—who is named after my youngest son, my inspiration behind the show—and a kid fire truck named Flash. Their parents are the co-fire chiefs. When Bo’s dad, Chief Bill Bayani (voiced by Lou Diamond Phillips), and Flash’s mom, Chief Faye Fireson (voiced by Yvette Nicole Brown), go off to fight real fires and handle real emergencies, Bo and Flash team up with their next-door neighbors to be first responders and rescuers in their neighborhood. Two of their neighbors are Violet (voiced by Vivian Vencer) and Axl the ambulance (voiced by Lily Sanfelippo), and they are the daughters of EMTs and EMVs, which in our world stands for Emergency Mechanic for Vehicles. On the other side lives the Jones family—Jaden (voiced by JeCobi Swain) and a safety-obsessed police car named Piston (voiced by Caleb Paddock). Jaden and Piston are the kids of police officers; Jaden serves as the genius inventor of the Firebudscrew, and Piston is always that character that wants everyone else to be safe no matter what they do. Together they complement each other with different skills. Bo is the planner; Flash is the heart; Violet is the medic, acrobat, and daredevil; and Axl, the ambulance, is the fastest of all the vehicles.

An animated young boy wears a red firefighter helmet and yellow coat. He is sitting next to an adult male character who has his hand on his shoulder. The man wears a red shirt and yellow firefighter pants. Behind them are lush green trees, checkered flags, and a swing set.

Firebuds boasts an immensely talented voice cast. How did you decide who was the right choice to bring these characters to life?

CG: This is my third show for Disney, so I’ve worked with a lot of voice actors. When you work with folks that you really like working with, you want to bring them back. Sometimes it’s hard to find the right character that matches up with the type of voice they have. This is the first time I ever did this, but there were two characters where I had actors in mind when I started developing the characters—and those actors were Lou Diamond Phillips and Yvette Nicole Brown. I thought to myself, I want Lou to be this fire chief. And I want Yvette to be the mama fire truck chief. I knew that their voices and their personalities would match up perfectly to the lead adult characters in our show. I was so happy when they both agreed to do it.

A star-studded lineup of guest stars, including Chef José Andrés, Melissa Rauch, “Weird Al” Yankovic, and Patton Oswalt—to name a few—will stop by Gearbox Grove and Motopolis this season. How did their appearances come about?

CG: In general, I found that the folks who are celebrities that come in to do voices for us, either have children or really loved Disney. They could be out doing any number of other projects, but they come in and voice for us—so I am always very grateful that they’ve taken the time to help us out and lend their voice. When you’re doing a show about emergency situations involving children, you have to be very careful not to have situations that are too dangerous or scary. One of the things we found when we were developing the show, that we could always go back to, is food and the idea of food-based emergencies. We knew we wanted to have a character who is a chef, and his roommate (or vehicle sidekick) is a food truck. When thinking about who we would get to voice these characters, one name sprang to mind—Chef José Andrés, because of his work with World Central Kitchen. He’s become a recurring character in the show, because once he showed up, he came in to the studio with so many great ideas for other episodes. The episodes are great, because again, you don’t have to worry about frightening children if you’re delivering meals somewhere. One of the things I love about Firebuds is that we get to tackle subject matter and themes that directly reflect to the real world. The hope is to inspire young children to see the Firebuds putting together meals for a rescue shelter, and then go out and find a way to serve their community on their own.

Aside from Andrés’ character, what is your other favorite moment from the series?

CG: I really enjoy the action-oriented rescue episodes. However, we have one episode that focuses on Violet, who is adopted and has two human moms and two vehicular dads. The episode is focused on what it is like to be a child of a first responder. She is having a very rare picnic with her parents on a very rare day off, but they get called into work and she feels really bad about that. She wonders why they always have to get called into work. While they’re gone, she discovers a child car that got dinged up, and she brings that kid to the hospital where her parents are—and in doing so, she realizes the sacrifice that her parents have to make. She herself is a first responder in training, and that moment really touches my heart. I wanted to shine a light on a specific characters’ family in the show, and hopefully put something out there that families of first responders can watch and relate to.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

By Andie Hagemann

What can we say except “you’re welcome” for all the super content coming to your TV (and assorted streaming devices) this weekend. Kevin’s dog becomes internet famous in an all-new episode of Hamster & Gretel, airing Saturday on Disney Channel, followed by a presentation of Incredibles 2 later that day on Freeform. On Sunday, don’t miss Moana airing on Freeform, followed by Celebrity Family Feud and The $100,000 Pyramid, both on ABC.

Two animated young girls sit side-by-side on a branch in a large tree. Left to right, Bailey wears a yellow sweater and green shorts with white sneakers. She wears black-framed glasses and holds a smaller branch with her right arm. Gretel wears a blue top and pink skirt with a matching headband. She looks to her right at Bailey.

Hamster & Gretel—Saturday, September 17, at 9:30 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel

Your favorite improbable super heroes are back with two all-new supercharged stories. First, Kevin’s dog Churro becomes an overnight internet sensation. Then, Gretel (voiced by Meli Povenmire) has her hands full while at a birthday party for Bailey (voiced by Priah Ferguson).

From left to right, animated characters Jack-Jack, an infant boy, Dash, a young boy, and Violet, a young girl, all sit side-by-side at a large white table. In front of Dash is a tall stack of pancakes. Violet stares at her plate of food and accompanying glass of orange juice. Mr. Incredible stands across the table and wears a blue and red plaid robe. He smiles and is pouring a glass of orange juice.

Incredibles 2—Saturday, September 17, at 3:05 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform

When Elastigirl aka Helen (voiced by Holly Hunter) becomes the new face of super heroes, Mr. Incredible aka Bob (voiced by Craig T. Nelson) is left at home to care for Violet (voiced by Sarah Vowell), Dash (voiced by Huck Milner), and Jack-Jack (voiced by Eli Fucile). However, he soon realizes taking care of the household and three energetic kids is tiring. Meanwhile, Elastigirl gets to work to save everyone from a new villain.

Animated teenage girl Moana leans and smiles while looking at Maui. She wears an orange and tan strapless top, a shell necklace, and a tan skirt. Maui stands to her left and holds a large hook. He is shirtless but wears a grass skirt and his body is covered in tattoos.

Moana—Sunday, September 18, at 3:30 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform

Three thousand years ago, the greatest sailors in the world voyaged across the vast Pacific, discovering the many islands of Oceania. But then, their voyages mysteriously stopped. Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho), a fiercely independent teenager who seeks adventure beyond her island’s confines, embarks on a perilous mission to save her people. With help from demigod Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson), there’s no telling how far she’ll go to prove herself.

NFL football players Stefon Diggs Christian Kirk, Grady Jarrett, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and Najee Harris stand side-by-side and in front of a large screen with alternating blue lights. All men are wearing suits and sneakers.

Celebrity Family Feud—Sunday, September 18, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC

Host Steve Harvey referees a showdown as NFL players—Christian Kirk, Najee Harris, Stefon Diggs, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and Grady Jarrett—face off against their moms with each team playing for their selected charities, The Conscious Kid and Black Women’s Health Imperative, respectively. Then, Joe Tessitore and Rob Riggle from ABC’s Holey Moley go up against actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley and her family, playing for Children’s Mercy Hospital and The Store, respectively.

Actor Nicole Byer sits at a desk and holds up her right index finger. She wears a green, velvet ensemble. She sits across from a contestant who is looking at her. On the desk is a digital screen reading, “The $100,000 Pyramid” and a smaller screen with “15.”

The $100,000 Pyramid—Sunday, September 18, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC

On the summer finale, Superstore co-stars Nico Santos and Lauren Ash face off for a chance at the winner’s circle. Meanwhile, Nicole Byer from Nailed It! goes head-to-head with Am I OK’s Jermaine Fowler. Who will be victorious? Tune in to find out!

Donny Osmond, Jodi Benson, and Susan Egan Surprise Fans During “Conversations with Disney Character Voices” at D23 Expo

By Andie Hagemann

The voices behind some beloved Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Ariel, and Tiana, dazzled fans in attendance for the “Conversations with Disney Character Voices” panel to close out D23 Expo. 

Rick Dempsey, Disney’s Senior Vice President of Character Voices, emceed the festivities, which featured talk backs with iconic actors, an automated dialogue replacement (ADR) session with the stars of Aladdin, and a live performance by Donny Osmond!

Those participating in the panel included:

  • Jim Cummings (voice of Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Ray, Pete, Darkwing Duck)
  • Disney Legend Bill Farmer (voice of Goofy)
  • Disney Legend Tony Anselmo (voice of Donald Duck)
  • Bret Iwan (voice of Mickey Mouse)
  • Kaitlyn Robrock (voice of Minnie Mouse)
  • Jodi Benson (voice of Ariel)
  • Susan Egan (voice of Megara)
  • Disney Legend Anika Noni Rose (voice of Tiana)
  • Disney Legend Linda Larkin (voice of Jasmine)
  • Scott Weinger (voice of Aladdin)

Farmer, who has been voicing Goofy for more than 35 years, shared that it’s heartwarming to hear from fans how much his work means to them. “People always come up and say, ‘I couldn’t talk to my dad, and [Goofy Movie] became our movie, and we became closer because of it,’” Farmer said. “We’re just in a little booth with a microphone; you don’t know how it affects the people out there, but with an event like this, we get to hear how it affects you.”

Dempsey later asked Rose if she shares any similarities with Tiana, a role that required the actress to embody extreme determination to land the gig. “I think we’re both big dreamers and from small spaces but found ways to inhabit the dreams that we had in our spirit,” Rose said. “I was really grateful to be able to bring that to heart and show young girls and boys who need to remember that dreams are still active even when you’re a grownup.”

Closing out the panel, Donny Osmond surprised fans with a spectacular performance of “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” from Mulan, which brought the crowd to their feet with a standing ovation.

Here's a gallery from the "Conversations with Disney Character Voices" panel at D23 Expo.

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge!

As a member of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, you know your magic! This week we’re putting your Pixar knowledge to the test to see if you are the ultimate Disney fan.

In Pixar’s Coco, what is the name of Mamá Imelda’s Alebrije?

Correct! Wrong!

In Pixar’s Coco, Mamá Imelda’s Alebrije (protector) is named Pepita.

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge!
You are the ultimate Disney fan!
Looks like you are a Disney expert! Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Challenge. We’ll see you next week for your chance to uphold your title as the ultimate Disney fan!
Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!
Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Challenge! These questions are tricky, so don’t stop swimming yet. We’ll see you next week for your chance to earn the title of the ultimate Disney fan!

Reimagining the Classic Disney Song “Go the Distance”

This year’s D23 Expo presented by Visa® brought fans exciting announcements, new content, and live performances, including the release of Go the Distance, a music EP series featuring talent from different backgrounds and genres as they reimagine some of Disney’s most beloved classics. This year, five up-and-coming independent artists— Gabby Samone, OTNES, Danni Cassette, Brittney Mendoza, and Alan Eugene Price—were tapped to put their own unique spin on the fan-favorite song “Go the Distance” from the 1997 Disney film Hercules, now streaming on Disney+. Listen to the EP here.

Get to know the artists, below:

Brittney Mendoza stands against a yellow backdrop and wears a white tank top underneath a corseted cream gown. Her eyes are closed, and she is singing into a microphone with her hands raised.

Brittney Mendoza
Brittney Mendoza, a Disney employee, is a Chamorro/Filipino singer-songwriter based in Los Angeles. She has released two singles since the winter of 2021 and plans to release an EP in spring 2023. Her alternative pop/R&B sound is influenced by lush landscapes, ethereal tones, and tight grooves, while her lyrics explore the complexities of love, anxiety, and honest self-reflection.

Gabby Samone stands against a green backdrop and wears a checkered jacket, distressed denim pants, and a white tank top. Her arms are outstretched towards the camera, and she is holding a red boombox. 

Gabby Samone
Gabby Samone is a pop/R&B artist. A viral superstar on social media, she’s also caught the attention on social media from entertainment giants like Jennifer Aniston. She has also been applauded by music superstars such as J.Cole, Jhene Aiko, Jennifer Hudson, Missy Elliott, Brandy, SWV, and XSCAPE, who have commented, liked, or shared some of her video stories and reels on social media. As an emerging artist, she has opened for R&B legends Keke Wyatt and Kelly Price and landed a role in her first major production, Dream Girls. Samone’s debut single is slated to be released in fall 2022.

OTNES stands against a green backdrop and wears an oversized white suit, and a brown shirt with a green collar. They are holding a flute in both hands.

OTNES
OTNES is a genre-fluid, gender-fluid pop artist living in Nashville. Formerly Emily Blue, OTNES spent their young adult life cultivating their unique pop sound. They were previously named Chicago Reader newspaper’s “Best Pop Artist in Chicago,” and their songs have been featured on Hulu’s Love Island and Maggie. OTNES achieves irresistible catchiness through hooky vocals and gritty synths. OTNES’ recent transformation finds them more confident than ever, with dynamic and bold pop tracks in line with Caroline Polachek, St. Vincent, and Imogen Heap. Expect a debut single in fall 2022.

Dani Cassette poses against a green backdrop for a close-up portrait. They are smiling with their mouth open and wearing a black and white floral print shirt and two silver nose rings. They are framing their face with their hands.

Danni Cassette
Danni Cassette is a performance artist and songwriter based in Los Angeles. Born into a musical family deeply rooted church, Cassette cultivated their own sound and expression very early. Having toured over 40 cities across the U.S., audiences agree that Cassette’s stage presence is electrifying. Cassette has completed their first exhibit with LACE Gallery titled When Sunday Comes, exploring Cassette’s many obstacles and celebrating the beauty of their artistry.

Alan Eugene Price poses against a yellow backdrop and wears a silk magenta suit and a white hat. He is playing a violin and smiling.

Alan Price
Alan Price is a contemporary violinist educated in music at Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Berklee College of Music in Boston and Valencia, Spain. Price is versed in classical, hip-hop, Riverdance, and jazz. He has performed at the White House for former First Lady Michelle Obama, led Patti LaBelle’s orchestra as concert master at The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., and performed the Bolivian National Anthem in Bolivia. Price brings his background in violin and music production to create a unique style whether performing solo or with a group.

Bardo stands on the left and wears a pink beanie and a white shirt with black details. His arms are crossed and he is smiling. Caleigh Cardinal is in the center and wears a green blazer. To her left is Jeremy Passion, who wears a graphic button-up, a green beanie, and glasses. They are all smiling and posing against a blue backdrop.

During D23 Expo, two artists from Reimagine Tomorrow’s inaugural season, Recital of Remixes, also made guest appearances. Bardo and Jeremy Passion performed their reimagined “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow,” a Sherman Brothers favorite. Their songs were released on July 2, 2021.


Bardo
A versatile, boundary-pushing songwriter and producer, Bardo describes his sound as a fully ripened apple, resting between the trees of A Tribe Called Quest and Tego Calderón. His warm, inviting sound combined with his ability to speak, write, rap, and sing in English, Spanish, and Portuguese make him poised to be a cultural bridge. The Black, U.S.-born superstar with international appeal (U.S., Italy, Spain, and Japan) and roots in hip-hop can traverse both the English-speaking world and the Latin world with the ease displayed by modern superstars like J Balvin, Anitta, and Kali Uchis.

Jeremy Passion
Jeremy Passion is a Filipino American singer/songwriter/producer known for his soulful, melodic voice, and delivers his music with messages on love, life, and faith. This YouTube sensation is a pioneer of the acoustic R&B/soul movement online. Passion was one of the first Asian Americans to go viral online with his famous original songs “Lemonade” and “Well Done,” as well as his acoustic covers of “So Sick” and “Cater 2 U” featuring Melvin Gutierrez aka MelvinSings. His subscriber base has exceeded 287,000 followers and he has received over 37 million channel views.

Celeigh Cardinal
Celeigh Cardinal is the winner of the 2020 Juno Award for Indigenous Artist of the Year, one of many honors bestowed upon this self-described soul-funk songstress. She’s also a host on Alberta’s CKUA Radio Network and prioritizes using her visibility to pave the way for other indigenous artists.

Bruce Boxleitner Attends D23 Expo to Celebrate TRON’s 40th Anniversary

By William Keck

Producers and forward-thinking special effects wizards reunited with Tron himself, actor Bruce Boxleitner, for a nostalgic look back at the movie TRON—celebrating the 40th anniversary of the ground-breaking sci-fi classic’s release. As the panelists shared stories about how they brought the futuristic film to life, giant monitors showcased original concept art and rare behind-the-scenes photos, along with historic snapshots taken outside Hollywood’s historic Grauman’s Chinese Theater, where the film was first screened.

The biggest audience reaction came when a racy, never-before-seen clip was revealed showing Tron and Lora (Cindy Morgan) sharing a sexy private moment within the computer-generated grid. In the deleted scene, Lora is tracing her finger around the illuminated lines of Tron’s costume, showing him how the lines can help guide him through the grid like a map. As Lora’s finger extended further down Tron’s costume, Lora could be heard saying, “Follow this all the way down…” before the screen suddenly went dark.

Boxleitner remembered being up on a horse while shooting a Western movie when he first read the script for TRON. Although he wasn’t able to quite wrap his head around what the film would actually be about, he had recently lost the part of Luke Skywalker to Mark Hamill and decided to give it a shot.

In a surprise video greeting during TRON's 40th anniversary celebration, Morgan recalled how the film’s writer/director, Steven Lisberger, helped her conceptualize an environment that would be created only after her filming was completed—including graphics of what the lightcycle vehicles would eventually look like. “I found the reality in the other actors’ eyes,” she explained, before thanking fans for four decades of support and enthusiasm.

Stream now on Disney+

TRON
TRON: Uprising
TRON: Legacy

Producer Donald Kushner recalled having to “sell” Disney on the idea for TRON. Ultimately, he got a greenlight only after he claimed another studio had expressed interest. But the studio had one condition: He and Lisberger had to create a sample effects reel, “which—by the way—we didn’t,” Kushner confessed. “We figured if we could get the plane in the air, we’d figure out how to land it.”

Visual effects supervisor Richard Winn Taylor II recalled how he took home a white motocross helmet and plussed it with tape to create the grid players’ helmets the night before they were to be featured in scenes. “We were inventing what we were doing as we went along,” he admitted.

John Scheele, the film’s effects technical supervisor, inspired laughs when he spoke about how he was recruited to help airbrush away unanticipated strange glowing effects emanating from the actors’ nether regions.

Boxleitner did take a moment to acknowledge his co-star and lifelong friend Jeff Bridges, who played brilliant computer programmer Kevin Flynn. “He still calls me ‘the Tronster,’ and I call him ‘Flynnster,’” said Boxletiner, who was mourning the recent loss of actor David Warner, who played the villainous Ed Dillinger. “I was hoping he would make the event,” Boxeltiner said of Warner, who passed away in July at age 80.

“I owe a great deal to this film,” said Boxleitner, who credited the classic for helping him land future sci-fi projects, including Babylon 5.

The panel ended by looking forward to the spring 2023 opening of TRON Lightcycle/Run, a new high-speed coaster opening in Tomorrowland in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. Scot Drake, the Imagineer who oversaw the attraction’s debut in Shanghai Disney Resort, recalled that his initial challenge was “to immerse guests in the grid like never before…. When you get launched into the grid, face first… it’s something you never forget!”

“I need to ride that thing!” Boxleitner proclaimed. And judging by the audience’s cheers, he’s not alone in feeling that anticipation!

Here's a gallery from the D23 Expo panel celebrating TRON's 40th anniversary.

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Every Major Announcement from ABC at the 2022 Summer TCAs

By Andie Hagemann

Today, ABC showcased new and returning series as part of the Television Critics Association’s Summer Press Tour. The virtual press conferences included conversations with the casts and creative teams behind Big Sky: Deadly Trails, Abbott Elementary, The Rookie: Feds, and Alaska Daily. ABC also announced additional performers set to appear in the special celebration Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter.

Norman Lear sits on a large 100 with his arms folded across his chest and legs crossed. He wears a gray suit and white hat. The text “Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter” is next to him along with logos for ABC and Hulu below him.

Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter

Honoring the life and legacy of the remarkable storyteller, activist, and philanthropist Norman Lear, ABC has announced additional celebrity guests as well as musical and comedy performers set to appear in the special celebration, Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter. The star-studded evening airs Thursday, September 22, from 9 to 11 p.m. ET/PT, on ABC, and will be available the next day on Hulu.

Special guests set to celebrate Lear through speeches and comedy performances include Asante Blackk, George Clooney, Laverne Cox, Isabella Gomez, Emily Hampshire, Tom Hanks, Rita Moreno, Ms. Pat, Jay Pharoah, Rob Reiner, Aida Rodriguez, and George Wallace. Special musical performances paying tribute to iconic sitcom theme songs will also be featured throughout the evening, with performances by Disney Legend Anthony Anderson, Disney Legend Kristen Bell, Ledisi, Justina Machado, Disney Legend Tracee Ellis Ross, Kelly Rowland, Amber Stevens West, Michelle Williams, and more.

As previously announced, Jennifer Aniston, Jimmy Kimmel, Amy Poehler, and Octavia Spencer are also set to appear in the special.

The one-night-only celebration features intimate conversations, special performances, and surprise reunions that pay homage to the man behind some of television’s greatest stories, in celebration of his 100th birthday. “I’ve always believed music and laughter have added time to my life. I’ve seen a lot throughout my 100 years, but I would’ve never imagined America having a front-row seat to my birthday celebration,” said Lear.

Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter is produced by Done+Dusted. Executive producers are David Jammy, Brent Miller, Garrett English, Raj Kapoor, and Eric Cook. James Merryman is set to direct.

Big Sky: Deadly Trails

Private detective Cassie Dewell (Kylie Bunbury), undersheriff Jenny Hoyt (Katheryn Winnick), and newly appointed sheriff Beau Arlen (Jensen Ackles) maintain order in Helena, Montana, with their unparalleled investigative skills. But when a local backcountry trip led by charismatic outfitter Sunny Barnes (Reba McEntire) goes awry, the trio faces their most formidable mystery yet—in which no camper can be trusted and danger lurks around every jagged rock and gnarled tree. ABC shared two sneak-peek clips from Big Sky: Deadly Trails, which premieres Wednesday, September 21, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Big Sky: Deadly Trails also stars Dedee Pfeiffer as Denise Brisbane, Jamie-Lynn Sigler as Tonya Wallis, and J. Anthony Pena as Deputy Mo Poppernak.

Based on the series of books by C.J. Box, Big Sky: Deadly Trails is executive produced by David E. Kelley, Elwood Reid, and Ross Fineman. Elwood Reid serves as showrunner and executive producer. Big Sky: Deadly Trails is produced by 20th Television in association with A+E Studios. 20th Television is a part of Disney Television Studios.

Abbott Elementary 

Fresh off its three landmark Emmy® wins, Abbott Elementary heads back to class for its highly anticipated second season, debuting Wednesday, September 21, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Ahead of the new school year, ABC’s No. 1 new comedy last season among adults ages 18-49 is rolling out a best-in-class guest roster, starting with multifaceted Tony®– and Grammy®-winning vocalist and two-time Emmy- and Academy Award®-nominated songwriter, author, and actor Leslie Odom Jr. Odom is set to play Draemond, the owner of a string of charter schools in the area who pays a visit to Abbott. Additional celebrity appearances include award-winning comedic actress, playwright, and author Lauren Weedman as Kristin Marie, a tough-talking teacher from a neighboring school who bears a striking resemblance to one of Abbott’s own, and Keyla Monterroso Mejia as Ashley, a teacher’s aide at Abbott Elementary whose go-with-the-flow personality contributes to classroom chaos.

In this workplace comedy, a group of dedicated, passionate teachers—and a slightly tone-deaf principal—are brought together in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life. Though these incredible educators may be outnumbered and underfunded, they love what they do—even if they don’t love the school district’s less-than-stellar attitude toward educating children.

Quinta Brunson created and stars as Janine Teagues in Abbott Elementary, and she serves as executive producer of the series alongside Justin Halpern and Patrick Schumacker of Delicious Non-Sequitur Productions, and Randall Einhorn. In addition to Brunson, the cast includes Tyler James Williams as Gregory Eddie, Janelle James as Ava Coleman, Lisa Ann Walter as Melissa Schemmenti, Chris Perfetti as Jacob Hill, William Stanford Davis as Mr. Johnson, and Sheryl Lee Ralph as Barbara Howard. The series is produced by Warner Bros. Television and 20th Television, a part of Disney Television Studios.

The Rookie: Feds

From the executive producers of The Rookie comes The Rookie: Feds, starring Niecy Nash-Betts as Simone Clark, the oldest rookie in the FBI. Clark is a force of nature, the living embodiment of a dream deferred—and she will work together with her new colleagues at the bureau to bring down the country’s toughest criminals. The Rookie: Feds premieres Tuesday, September 27, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

The Rookie: Feds also stars Frankie R. Faison as Christopher “Cutty” Clark, James Lesure as Carter Hope, Britt Robertson as Laura Stensen, Felix Solis as Matthew Garza, and Kevin Zegers as Brendon Acres.

Alexi Hawley and Terence Paul Winter are co-creators and executive producers. Terence Paul Winter serves as the showrunner of The Rookie: Feds. Mark Gordon, Nash-Betts, Nathan Fillion, Michelle Chapman, Bill Norcross, and Corey Miller are executive producers. Entertainment One (eOne) is the lead studio and international distributor of The Rookie: Feds, a co-production with ABC Signature.

Alaska Daily

From the mind of Tom McCarthy, Alaska Daily stars Hilary Swank as Eileen Fitzgerald, a fiercely talented and award-winning investigative journalist who leaves her high-profile New York life behind after a fall from grace to join a daily metro newspaper in Anchorage on a journey to find both personal and professional redemption. Alaska Daily premieres Thursday, October 6, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Alongside Swank, Alaska Daily stars Jeff Perry as Stanley Cornik, Matt Malloy as Bob Young, Meredith Holzman as Claire Muncy, Grace Dove as Rosalind “Roz” Friendly, Pablo Castelblanco as Gabriel Tovar, Ami Park as Yuna Park, and Craig Frank as Austin Teague.

McCarthy is creator and executive producer. Swank, Melissa Wells, Bert Salke, Kyle Hopkins (Anchorage Daily News), Ryan Binkley (Anchorage Daily News), and Peter Elkoff, who will also serve as showrunner, are executive producers on the series. Alaska Daily is produced by 20th Television, a part of Disney Television Studios.

Premiere Date Announced for First of The Owl House’s Final Three Specials

By Andie Hagemann

Disney Branded Television’s Peabody Award-winning series The Owl House debuts the first of its final specials Saturday, October 15, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, with a simulcast on Disney Channel and Disney XD. Created and executive produced by Dana Terrace, the 44-minute specials follow Luz (voiced by Sarah-Nicole Robles) as she journeys to save the Boiling Isles from the evil Emperor Belos (voiced by Matthew Rhys) and the unpredictable Collector (voiced by Fryda Wolff). The following two installments will premiere in 2023.

Picking up immediately following the events of the season two finale, the first special, “Thanks to Them,” finds Luz and her friends stuck in the human realm and willing to go to daring lengths to return to the Boiling Isles.

The Owl House follows Luz, a self-assured teenage girl who stumbles upon a portal to a magical realm where she befriends a rebellious witch, Eda (voiced by Wendie Malick), and a tiny warrior, King (voiced by Alex Hirsch). Despite not having magical abilities, Luz pursues her dream of becoming a witch by serving as Eda’s apprentice at the Owl House and ultimately finds a new family in an unlikely setting. In 2021, the series won the prestigious Peabody Award in the Children & Youth category for “building a wildly inventive other world that makes room for everyone.”

The voice cast also includes Hirsch as Hooty, Issac Ryan Brown as Gus, Tati Gabrielle as Willow, Mae Whitman as Amity, Cissy Jones as Lilith, and Zeno Robinson as Hunter.

Wade Wisinski also serves as a producer with Terrace. Andy Garner-Flexner is the art director. The Owl Houseis a production of Disney Television Animation and carries a TV-Y7 FV parental guideline.

Extensions for The Owl House include apparel and phone accessories that are available at Amazon.com/DisneyChannel, as well as two children’s books inspired by the series from Disney Publishing Group: The Owl House: Witches Before Wizards and The Owl House: Hex-cellent Tales from The Boiling Isles, both available at www.DisneyBooks.com.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Stars Tease “Twists and Turns” in the Season 3 Finale

By Zach Johnson

It’s going to be a night to remember, all right.

In the Season 3 finale of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, streaming Wednesday, September 14, on Disney+, it’s the opening night of Frozen at Camp Shallow Lake. The pressure on the performers is an all-time high—and not just because the Corbin Bleu–hosted docuseries they’ve been filming is going to be livestreamed. At D23 Expo presented by Visa® on Saturday, Saylor Bell Curda, who plays Maddox, told D23, “I think everyone is going to be really shocked—but everyone is going to love it!”

“There are a lot of twists and turns,” added Frankie Rodriguez, who plays Carlos. “It’s a little messier than previous season finales, but it’s good.” Coming from the actor whose character produced The Real Campers of Shallow Lake to ensure he and his friends would be the stars of Bleu’s Disney+ docuseries, that’s really saying something!

Nini, played by Olivia Rodrigo, wears a red velvet blazer and a pink and red shirt with a star-print pussy bow. Miss Jenn, played by Kate Reinders, has her back to the camera and is talking to Nini. She is wearing a floral dress.

Joshua Bassett, who plays Ricky, was similarly cryptic about the drama that unfolds in the highly anticipated episode. “I can’t say anything at all, other than to expect the unexpected,” he said. “The way we wrap up the season is insane! I’m so excited for people to watch it. I’m very curious about their reactions. It’s going to be interesting.”

Interesting indeed. For one thing, Ricky still hasn’t told Gina (Sofia Wylie) that he was caught on camera professing his feelings for her—or that the entire world is going find out as soon as the docuseries is released. Meanwhile, Gina is still sorting out her feelings after her recent breakup with E.J. (Matt Cornett)… who suspects there may be something brewing between her and Ricky. As Rodriguez said, it’s very complicated.

Ashlyn, played by Julia Lester, is wearing a green dress with a matching bow in her curly hair. She is sitting on a couch with her back to the camera while talking to Big Red, played by Larry Saperstein, who is wearing a floral blazer and smiling at her.

“A lot of people are questioning what Gina is going to do,” Wylie said of the characters’ simmering love triangle. “Things are moving so fast. She’s just broken up with E.J, so it would be abrupt for her to make any kind of decision—but she is confused. There are a lot of possibilities. The finale leaves the door open in Season 4.”

As for Cornett?  “Whatever happens with the characters, happens with the characters,” he said. “Honestly, I can’t pick a side. There are amazing things about Ricky, and there are amazing things about E.J. They’re both great guys. Gina can’t lose either way, really.”

As announced onstage at D23 Expo during “Disney’s Epic Entertainment Showcase: The Musical: The Extravaganza!” in Hall D23, Season 4 of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series will find the Wildcats staging a production of the hugely popular movie High School Musical 3: Senior Year. “It’s so exciting to be going back to East High in Salt Lake City,” said Joe Serafini, who plays Seb. “It just gets bigger and better every time.”