Casting Crowns is heading for top 10 debuts on the Billboard 200 chart next week.
Industry sources suggest that Casting Crowns' latest album, Thrive, may sell around 75,000 copies by the end of the tracking week on Sunday, February 2. The album was released on January 28.
However, the CD, at this point, is not in contention for the No. 1 slot. The recently released "2014 Grammy Nominees" compilation is aiming for No. 1, with perhaps over 90,000 sold for the week. It's basking in the glow of its namesake awards show, which aired on January 26.
The top 10 of next week's Billboard 200 chart will be revealed on Wednesday, February 5.
Casting Crowns' last studio set, 2011's "Come to the Well," debuted and peaked at No. 2 -- marking the act's second album to peak in the runner-up slot. "Come to the Well" sold 99,000 in its first week, according to Nielsen SoundScan. In total, the act has charted four top 10 sets, stretching back to 2005's "Lifesong," which debuted and peaked at No. 9.
"Thrive" will easily give Casting Crowns its sixth No. 1 album on the Christian Albums chart as well. It follows the group's previous leaders: "Come to the Well," "Until the Whole World Hears" (2009), "Peace On Earth" (2008), "The Altar and the Door" (2007) and "Lifesong."
The rest of the Building chart's top 10: Of Mice & Men is No. 3, while Beyonce's self-titled album is No. 4. Lorde's "Pure Heroine" is No. 5, Andy Mineo's "Never Land" is No. 6 and Casting Crowns is No. 7. Mineo will likely finish the week just outside the top 10, with perhaps 20,000.
(Casting Crowns is below Of Mice & Men on the Building chart, as a significant number of Casting Crowns' sales from Christian retailers are not represented in the Building chart. When the final chart is compiled next week, Casting Crowns should be well ahead of Of Mice & Men.)
Friday, January 31, 2014
Free Preview of Michael Sweet's Upcoming Autobio
Michael Sweet is offering up the first chapter from his upcoming autobiography titled “Honestly: My life and Stryper Revealed." Insiders who have previewed the book have already praised it for its candor and insight into the story behind Stryper and Michael Sweet. The book includes quotes from Dave Mustaine, Larry The Cable Guy, Eddie Trunk, wrestler Chris Jericho, and more.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
"Jesus Is Better than the Super Bowl" Top TV Event of the Year Again Showcases Christian Athletes
The Super Bowl has long been an arena in which Christian athletes have shined ranging from Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers and Shaun Alexander to Reggie White and Kurt Warner.
This year TV's big event will showcase Denver Broncos's Peyton Manning and Seattle Seahawks' quarterback, Russell Wilson.
Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning doesn't publicly discuss his faith as frequently as some other Christian athletes, but he has said that he wants his actions to speak louder than his words.
The future Hall-of-Famer Manning led his team to a Super Bowl berth by throwing for 400 yards and two touchdowns in last Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots. The four-time league MVP has been stellar throughout the season, setting NFL regular season records in both passing yards (5,477) and touchdowns (55).
But while many people focus primarily on Manning's performance on the field, the part of his life that he has said is most important – his Christian faith – is rarely discussed.
In Manning, the book published in 2001 that he co-wrote with his father, the quarterback shares how he came to faith in Christ in a New Orleans church as a 13-year-old boy, according to an excerpt of the book posted to the Young Conservatives site. His priorities in life, he wrote, have been faith, family, friends and football – in that order.
Russell Wilson will be facing off with Manning in the Super Bowl. Wilson and several of his teammates recently sat down with Mark Driscoll, the preaching and vision pastor of Mars Hill Church in Seattle, to discuss their faith in an interview that was posted to the Resurgence website.
This year TV's big event will showcase Denver Broncos's Peyton Manning and Seattle Seahawks' quarterback, Russell Wilson.
Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning doesn't publicly discuss his faith as frequently as some other Christian athletes, but he has said that he wants his actions to speak louder than his words.
The future Hall-of-Famer Manning led his team to a Super Bowl berth by throwing for 400 yards and two touchdowns in last Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots. The four-time league MVP has been stellar throughout the season, setting NFL regular season records in both passing yards (5,477) and touchdowns (55).
But while many people focus primarily on Manning's performance on the field, the part of his life that he has said is most important – his Christian faith – is rarely discussed.
In Manning, the book published in 2001 that he co-wrote with his father, the quarterback shares how he came to faith in Christ in a New Orleans church as a 13-year-old boy, according to an excerpt of the book posted to the Young Conservatives site. His priorities in life, he wrote, have been faith, family, friends and football – in that order.
Russell Wilson will be facing off with Manning in the Super Bowl. Wilson and several of his teammates recently sat down with Mark Driscoll, the preaching and vision pastor of Mars Hill Church in Seattle, to discuss their faith in an interview that was posted to the Resurgence website.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Former Music Industry Executive Turned Prison Minister Tells Justin Bieber to Clean Up
He lived a wild, drug-addled lifestyle before it all came crashing down in the 1980s. Now former music industry executive turned prison minister Marty Angelo is warning troubled pop star Justin Bieber that he should put the brakes on his reported drug abuse before it's too late.
A TMZ report revealed last Monday that when officers from the L.A. County Sheriff's Office visited Bieber's Mansion last Tuesday they discovered a "trove" of drugs and drug paraphernalia.
"Back in my generation, we wrote the book on abusing drugs and alcohol and many of the friends and colleagues are now dead and gone because of the way we lived. I never thought for a minute my friends, Jimi Hendrix or Janis Joplin would die in 1970 from drug overdoses," wrote Angelo, the force behind Once Life Matters Ministries, Inc., open letter to Bieber on his website Saturday.
Angelo, who went on to write a book about his wild life and eventual fall titled Once Life Matters: A New Beginning, warned Bieber that he needs to pause and take heed to some good advice, explaining that he was sending him a copy of his book.
"You are a very young man, Justin, who still has a lot to learn. When I look back to when I was your age I can remember never wanting to listen to anyone who was trying to tell me what I was doing was wrong."
"Right now, I am 67 years old. When I was 35, while riding high in the entertainment business, I suffered a major consequence for my out-of-control lifestyle. In 1980, I was arrested and plead guilty to two counts of possession of cocaine. I was sentenced to six years in federal prison and three years of special parole," he said.
"Abusing drugs will bring you one of three definite consequences: prison, serious hospitalization, or death. Please learn from those of us who have been down this road before it is too late," he urged.
h/t to Christian Post
A TMZ report revealed last Monday that when officers from the L.A. County Sheriff's Office visited Bieber's Mansion last Tuesday they discovered a "trove" of drugs and drug paraphernalia.
"Back in my generation, we wrote the book on abusing drugs and alcohol and many of the friends and colleagues are now dead and gone because of the way we lived. I never thought for a minute my friends, Jimi Hendrix or Janis Joplin would die in 1970 from drug overdoses," wrote Angelo, the force behind Once Life Matters Ministries, Inc., open letter to Bieber on his website Saturday.
Angelo, who went on to write a book about his wild life and eventual fall titled Once Life Matters: A New Beginning, warned Bieber that he needs to pause and take heed to some good advice, explaining that he was sending him a copy of his book.
"You are a very young man, Justin, who still has a lot to learn. When I look back to when I was your age I can remember never wanting to listen to anyone who was trying to tell me what I was doing was wrong."
"Right now, I am 67 years old. When I was 35, while riding high in the entertainment business, I suffered a major consequence for my out-of-control lifestyle. In 1980, I was arrested and plead guilty to two counts of possession of cocaine. I was sentenced to six years in federal prison and three years of special parole," he said.
"Abusing drugs will bring you one of three definite consequences: prison, serious hospitalization, or death. Please learn from those of us who have been down this road before it is too late," he urged.
h/t to Christian Post
Monday, January 20, 2014
One Direction Star Is Getting It From All Directions After Tweeting Support for 'Duck Dynasty's Willie Robertson
One Direction singer Liam Payne is getting it from all directions after sending a supportive tweet to "Duck Dynasty" star Willie Robertson. Fans are upset with Payne, who they claim is showing support to someone who made anti-gay remarks in an interview last month.
"@williebosshog huge love to you/your family huge respect for your business prosperities and the family values you still all behold. Big fan," Payne tweeted.
His words immediately set off a firestorm of responses from those who follow the popular singer. Many were upset that Payne would support Robertson after his father made controversial remarks during an interview with GQ magazine last month.
"Being a fan of someones show and the way they still hold a family together doesn't mean I am ok with all they say," Payne later tweeted in response to all of the comments.
Other fans, though, have started a Twitter campaign with the phrase "#LiamWeStandByYou" in order to combat all the negative reactions he's received.
"Fox & Friends" posted a photo of Payne and Robertson expressing themselves with cartoon bubbles, though it's not known whether Robertson actually replied to Payne's comments.
"Thanks bro. Congrats to u boys as well. Y'all keep rockin', we'll keep quackin'. Stay strong in this nutty world," Robertson says in the photo.
Payne continued to defend himself against comments from followers and went on a bit of a rant against all the publicity he was receiving because of his comments.
"I can't do anything without being judged u try that and write about it. Sick of all this bull I'll be back again when the freedom of speech law is back and people don't believe to [sic] much into the [expletive] they read," Payne tweeted.
"@williebosshog huge love to you/your family huge respect for your business prosperities and the family values you still all behold. Big fan," Payne tweeted.
His words immediately set off a firestorm of responses from those who follow the popular singer. Many were upset that Payne would support Robertson after his father made controversial remarks during an interview with GQ magazine last month.
"Being a fan of someones show and the way they still hold a family together doesn't mean I am ok with all they say," Payne later tweeted in response to all of the comments.
Other fans, though, have started a Twitter campaign with the phrase "#LiamWeStandByYou" in order to combat all the negative reactions he's received.
"Fox & Friends" posted a photo of Payne and Robertson expressing themselves with cartoon bubbles, though it's not known whether Robertson actually replied to Payne's comments.
"Thanks bro. Congrats to u boys as well. Y'all keep rockin', we'll keep quackin'. Stay strong in this nutty world," Robertson says in the photo.
Payne continued to defend himself against comments from followers and went on a bit of a rant against all the publicity he was receiving because of his comments.
"I can't do anything without being judged u try that and write about it. Sick of all this bull I'll be back again when the freedom of speech law is back and people don't believe to [sic] much into the [expletive] they read," Payne tweeted.
Kellan Lutz Watched ‘The Passion of the Christ’ Religiously to Prep for ‘Hercules’
Asked how he prepared to play the ancient mythical warrior in The Legend of Hercules, the star counted — among other things — his time spent on horseback during the shoot. “Riding a horse is a great workout for your legs, and for your core. And wielding the sword — I’m topless most of the time, so I’m able to do push-ups in between takes without sweating through the costume.”
Emotionally, Lutz credits his faith with helping him to connect to Hercules during some of the film’s more difficult scenes. “There’s a scene halfway through the movie that’s the crucifixion, where I ask my father Zeus for help. I’m a man of faith, so I would just religiously watch ‘The Passion of the Christ,’ and I’d use that.”
For Harlin, the story of Hercules had always been a source of fascination. “I grew up watching movies like ‘Spartacus’ and ‘Ben Hur,’ so to be able to make a movie like this, I think it’s every director’s dream.”
“If you look at all the modern comic book movies, they come from that mythology,” Harlin added. “And Hercules is the father of all superheroes.”
Emotionally, Lutz credits his faith with helping him to connect to Hercules during some of the film’s more difficult scenes. “There’s a scene halfway through the movie that’s the crucifixion, where I ask my father Zeus for help. I’m a man of faith, so I would just religiously watch ‘The Passion of the Christ,’ and I’d use that.”
For Harlin, the story of Hercules had always been a source of fascination. “I grew up watching movies like ‘Spartacus’ and ‘Ben Hur,’ so to be able to make a movie like this, I think it’s every director’s dream.”
“If you look at all the modern comic book movies, they come from that mythology,” Harlin added. “And Hercules is the father of all superheroes.”
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Christian Movie 'Alone Yet Not Alone' Receives Surprising Oscar Nomination And a Lot of Strong Reactions
Every year there are a few Oscar nominations that come out of left field, either for a film that wasn't on the Oscar pundits' radar or giving a nod to film with artistic merit that perhaps didn't connect with critics. The most surprising nomination this year is the Best Original Song nom for "Alone Yet Not Alone,"
A Christian movie, which only screened in nine cities in 2013, has picked up an Academy Award nomination for "Best Original Song" this week and has surprised both critics and the song's composer and singer alike.
Joni Erickson Tada, the vocalist for the song, as well as an author, painter and quadriplegic who runs her own organization Joni and Friends, said that the Oscar nomination came as a complete surprise to her.
"I'm the least likely candidate to record a song for a movie, I'll tell you that up front, so it's amazing," Tada told The Hollywood Reporter. "It's amazing enough that a family friendly movie with a Christian theme is nominated in any category for an Academy Award."
Bruce Broughton, who wrote the song and was previously nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score in 1986 for "Silverado," said he had been stunned by the news.
"You couldn't ever call it a dark horse. It was an invisible horse," Broughton told Yahoo Movies. "My songwriting partner Dennis Spiegel [who wrote the song's lyrics] called and he was so excited he could hardly speak."
"I was just trying to come up with a good tune that sounded like a hymn ... one that doesn't beat you over the head with a strong message," he added.
Released in theaters in late September 2013, "Alone Yet Not Alone," is based on a book of the same name, and tells the true story of two German settler girls who attempt to hold onto their Christian faith after being kidnapped by Native Americans.
The film is produced by Enthuse Entertainment, which describes its mission as one that works to create a "God-honoring, faith-based, family-friendly films that inspire the human spirit to seek and know God."
Since its nomination was announced, some critics have criticized the movie, claiming that it gives a negative and demeaning depiction of Native Americans. Native Appropriations, a Native American activist site, criticized the film's IMDB summary that described the story's primary conflict as "hostile native tribes are raiding the vulnerable frontier farms" and the girls' kidnapping as being " forcibly immersed into a primitive foreign culture."
"They give out oscars for racism now?" Native Appropriations asked.
Among the movie's endorsements are former presidential candidate Rick Santorum, Family Research Council President Tony Perkins, and Dr. James Dobson.
Yet the film failed to garner virtually any attention from mainstream movie critics, and movie ratings aggregator Rotten Tomatoes listed no reviews for the movie.
Deadline pins the movie's unlikely success to the efforts of two men: William Ross and Bruce Broughton. Ross, who scored Alone Yet Not Alone, happens to be the conductor for the orchestra at this year's Academy Awards ceremony; Broughton, who wrote the eponymous song, is the former head of the Academy's music branch.
"Alone Yet Not Alone's" fellow nominees include songs from "Frozen," "Despicable Me 2," "Her," and "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom."
The Academy Awards will be held in Los Angeles on March 2.
A Christian movie, which only screened in nine cities in 2013, has picked up an Academy Award nomination for "Best Original Song" this week and has surprised both critics and the song's composer and singer alike.
Joni Erickson Tada, the vocalist for the song, as well as an author, painter and quadriplegic who runs her own organization Joni and Friends, said that the Oscar nomination came as a complete surprise to her.
"I'm the least likely candidate to record a song for a movie, I'll tell you that up front, so it's amazing," Tada told The Hollywood Reporter. "It's amazing enough that a family friendly movie with a Christian theme is nominated in any category for an Academy Award."
Bruce Broughton, who wrote the song and was previously nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score in 1986 for "Silverado," said he had been stunned by the news.
"You couldn't ever call it a dark horse. It was an invisible horse," Broughton told Yahoo Movies. "My songwriting partner Dennis Spiegel [who wrote the song's lyrics] called and he was so excited he could hardly speak."
"I was just trying to come up with a good tune that sounded like a hymn ... one that doesn't beat you over the head with a strong message," he added.
Released in theaters in late September 2013, "Alone Yet Not Alone," is based on a book of the same name, and tells the true story of two German settler girls who attempt to hold onto their Christian faith after being kidnapped by Native Americans.
The film is produced by Enthuse Entertainment, which describes its mission as one that works to create a "God-honoring, faith-based, family-friendly films that inspire the human spirit to seek and know God."
Since its nomination was announced, some critics have criticized the movie, claiming that it gives a negative and demeaning depiction of Native Americans. Native Appropriations, a Native American activist site, criticized the film's IMDB summary that described the story's primary conflict as "hostile native tribes are raiding the vulnerable frontier farms" and the girls' kidnapping as being " forcibly immersed into a primitive foreign culture."
"They give out oscars for racism now?" Native Appropriations asked.
Among the movie's endorsements are former presidential candidate Rick Santorum, Family Research Council President Tony Perkins, and Dr. James Dobson.
Yet the film failed to garner virtually any attention from mainstream movie critics, and movie ratings aggregator Rotten Tomatoes listed no reviews for the movie.
Deadline pins the movie's unlikely success to the efforts of two men: William Ross and Bruce Broughton. Ross, who scored Alone Yet Not Alone, happens to be the conductor for the orchestra at this year's Academy Awards ceremony; Broughton, who wrote the eponymous song, is the former head of the Academy's music branch.
"Alone Yet Not Alone's" fellow nominees include songs from "Frozen," "Despicable Me 2," "Her," and "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom."
The Academy Awards will be held in Los Angeles on March 2.
Friday, January 17, 2014
A&E Developing Edgy ‘Highway to Heaven’ Reboot With Mark Wahlberg
“Highway to Heaven” could be making a return trip to the TV screen.
Hollywood Reporter is reporting that A&E is developing a contemporary remake of the acclaimed late-1980s Michael Landon drama, with Mark Wahlberg on board as an executive producer. The project, which centers on an angel sent down to earth to help troubled souls, is being penned by former Hell on Wheels showrunner John Wirth.
The original, which ran for five seasons on NBC, starred Landon as Jonathan Smith, an angel sent down on probation, and his Little House on the Prairie co-star Victor French as human companion Mark Gordon. Together, the pair is given assignments by God as Landon's character looks to earn his wings.
Wahlberg is also involved with the A&E reality series “Wahlburgers,” about his family’s restaurant.
Hollywood Reporter is reporting that A&E is developing a contemporary remake of the acclaimed late-1980s Michael Landon drama, with Mark Wahlberg on board as an executive producer. The project, which centers on an angel sent down to earth to help troubled souls, is being penned by former Hell on Wheels showrunner John Wirth.
The original, which ran for five seasons on NBC, starred Landon as Jonathan Smith, an angel sent down on probation, and his Little House on the Prairie co-star Victor French as human companion Mark Gordon. Together, the pair is given assignments by God as Landon's character looks to earn his wings.
Wahlberg is also involved with the A&E reality series “Wahlburgers,” about his family’s restaurant.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
NBC Orders Church Drama Pilot From ‘Six Feet Under’ Producer
NBC has ordered a new drama pilot from David Janollari, the former MTV programming exec and “Six Feet Under” producer.
“Salvation” will be executive produced and written by “Deception” writer/producer Liz Heldens.
It is described as a provocative drama set against the backdrop of a prominent Texas church where faith, family and corruption are explored in equal measure. The pilot centers on Jennifer Strickland, who has to defend her children, church and religious beliefs after her husband dies under mysterious circumstances.
“Salvation” will go into contention for a series order alongside NBC’s previously announced drama pilots
“Salvation” will be executive produced and written by “Deception” writer/producer Liz Heldens.
It is described as a provocative drama set against the backdrop of a prominent Texas church where faith, family and corruption are explored in equal measure. The pilot centers on Jennifer Strickland, who has to defend her children, church and religious beliefs after her husband dies under mysterious circumstances.
“Salvation” will go into contention for a series order alongside NBC’s previously announced drama pilots
‘Partridge Family’ And 'Adventures in Odyssey' Star Dave Madden Dead at 82
Dave Madden, who played long-suffering band manager Reuben Kincaid on the ’70s sitcom “The Partridge Family,” has died, TMZ reports. He was 82. According to the site, Madden died of congestive heart failure and kidney failure on Thursday morning following a long illness.
In addition to his run as Kincaid on “The Partridge Family” — a role he portrayed from 1970 to 1974 — Madden also had a steady role on the sitcom “Alice,” playing Mel’s Diner customer Earl Hicks.
More recently, since 1990, Madden has voiced has voiced 11 characters on Adventures in Odyssey, including the iconic Bernard Walton.
In addition to his run as Kincaid on “The Partridge Family” — a role he portrayed from 1970 to 1974 — Madden also had a steady role on the sitcom “Alice,” playing Mel’s Diner customer Earl Hicks.
More recently, since 1990, Madden has voiced has voiced 11 characters on Adventures in Odyssey, including the iconic Bernard Walton.
‘Duck Dynasty’ Premiere Second Most Popular Show on TV, On Par With Last Year
Last night's show ranks as No. 2 program of night in young adults — behind only Fox's 'American Idol'
More than 8.5 million heard the “Duck Dynasty” call Wednesday, as the A&E juggernaut returned to strong but far from record-breaking ratings — less than a month after a firestorm of controversy engulfed the show.
This number is about the same as its recent Christmas special as well as its 2013 bow last February, but well below its record-setting fourth-season opener of last August.
On a night that included original series episodes on every broadcast network — including the season premiere of Fox’s “American Idol” — “Duck Dynasty” ranked as the evening’s No. 2 program among adults 18-49. Its 4.2 million viewers in the demo (a 3.3 rating) put it behind only “Idol” (4.6) and slightly ahead of ABC’s “Modern Family” (3.2)
More than 8.5 million heard the “Duck Dynasty” call Wednesday, as the A&E juggernaut returned to strong but far from record-breaking ratings — less than a month after a firestorm of controversy engulfed the show.
This number is about the same as its recent Christmas special as well as its 2013 bow last February, but well below its record-setting fourth-season opener of last August.
On a night that included original series episodes on every broadcast network — including the season premiere of Fox’s “American Idol” — “Duck Dynasty” ranked as the evening’s No. 2 program among adults 18-49. Its 4.2 million viewers in the demo (a 3.3 rating) put it behind only “Idol” (4.6) and slightly ahead of ABC’s “Modern Family” (3.2)
Some Networks upset with A&E for 'caving' on Duck Dynasty's Phil Robertson's Comments
A&E was quick to reinstate Phil Robertson on "Duck Dynasty" following last month’s controversy over comments he made to GQ magazine about homosexuality. Now an insider tells Fox News there is still heat on the network for their about face.
According to a well-placed source, higher-ups at several networks – including executives at both ABC and CBS – remain hopping mad with A&E for “caving” to the backlash from "Duck Dynasty" fans.
"Several high-ranking executives have expressed upset over the way this all played out. The network execs think that in allowing Phil to come back so quickly and seamlessly, without apology, sets a bad standard,” the source told Fox News. “The standard being that talent can say whatever offensive thing they want about gay people or other groups and get away with it. No consequences.”
Fox News was also told that power players at both ABC and CBS are annoyed – and were quite frankly “shocked” – that the Robertson family patriarch was suspended for just a week and welcomed back so warmly.
"It's all about money. I guess many feel that A&E should have taken a stronger stand,” added the source. “Where do moral standards go from here? Does this now mean stars can say whatever offensive things they want under the guise of freedom of speech, without repercussion?”
One industry pro says things could have been far worse for the cable channel if A&E had not backed down and brought Robertson back.
“At the end of the day, entertainment is big business and clearly A&E decided that ‘this too shall pass.’ Sometimes avoiding the major news as would have occurred has they fired him would have been more damaging to their brand then simply having Robertson continue on,” noted Ronn Torossian, CEO of 5WPR. “Not all press is good press.”
According to a well-placed source, higher-ups at several networks – including executives at both ABC and CBS – remain hopping mad with A&E for “caving” to the backlash from "Duck Dynasty" fans.
"Several high-ranking executives have expressed upset over the way this all played out. The network execs think that in allowing Phil to come back so quickly and seamlessly, without apology, sets a bad standard,” the source told Fox News. “The standard being that talent can say whatever offensive thing they want about gay people or other groups and get away with it. No consequences.”
Fox News was also told that power players at both ABC and CBS are annoyed – and were quite frankly “shocked” – that the Robertson family patriarch was suspended for just a week and welcomed back so warmly.
"It's all about money. I guess many feel that A&E should have taken a stronger stand,” added the source. “Where do moral standards go from here? Does this now mean stars can say whatever offensive things they want under the guise of freedom of speech, without repercussion?”
One industry pro says things could have been far worse for the cable channel if A&E had not backed down and brought Robertson back.
“At the end of the day, entertainment is big business and clearly A&E decided that ‘this too shall pass.’ Sometimes avoiding the major news as would have occurred has they fired him would have been more damaging to their brand then simply having Robertson continue on,” noted Ronn Torossian, CEO of 5WPR. “Not all press is good press.”
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Stephen Baldwin Set to Star in a new Kickstarter-funded Sitcom, Rock And A Hard Place
Grammy-winning vocalist John Schlitt is set to join actor Stephen Baldwin in a new sitcom, Rock And A Hard Place, slated to go into production in the Spring. The faith-based television project features Schlitt in the role of John, the maintenance man at Solid Rock Church, where Baldwin's character is the pastor.
The sitcom, which has reached its initial Kickstarter goal to produce the pilot, is currently in Phase Two as the production team strives to make a "reach goal" of $100,000. The deadline for contributions is 9 p.m. E.T. Thursday, January 16.
The story line centers around Baldwin's character, Pastor Darren Keaton, who has a young daughter, a live-in mother-in-law, a slowly declining congregation in a northern Illinois church. When Pastor Keaton learns he has become the new owner of Hard Knocks, the bar directly across the street from his church home, Solid Rock Church, he suddenly finds himself between "a rock and a hard place." The pastor questions how his congregation will respond, how the church elders and staff will treat him, and how a devoutly religious man pastoring a church can possibly be allowed to own a bar? Pastor Darren finds he must look up for the answers, even more now than ever.
"Rock And A Hard Place is a comedy sitcom extravaganza," Baldwin says. "It's an outside the box, kooky, funny, Christian comedy of a heightened quality."
Joining Baldwin and Schlitt in the cast are Braxton Cosby (Bill Cosby's nephew), Eddie Steeples (My Name is Earl), and actress Lindee Link (Christian music singer Twila Paris' cousin). Grammy nominee Bryan Duncan wrote and performed the theme song for the new TV project. Darren Marlar is the series creator, producer, writer and also acts in the show.
The sitcom, which has reached its initial Kickstarter goal to produce the pilot, is currently in Phase Two as the production team strives to make a "reach goal" of $100,000. The deadline for contributions is 9 p.m. E.T. Thursday, January 16.
The story line centers around Baldwin's character, Pastor Darren Keaton, who has a young daughter, a live-in mother-in-law, a slowly declining congregation in a northern Illinois church. When Pastor Keaton learns he has become the new owner of Hard Knocks, the bar directly across the street from his church home, Solid Rock Church, he suddenly finds himself between "a rock and a hard place." The pastor questions how his congregation will respond, how the church elders and staff will treat him, and how a devoutly religious man pastoring a church can possibly be allowed to own a bar? Pastor Darren finds he must look up for the answers, even more now than ever.
"Rock And A Hard Place is a comedy sitcom extravaganza," Baldwin says. "It's an outside the box, kooky, funny, Christian comedy of a heightened quality."
Joining Baldwin and Schlitt in the cast are Braxton Cosby (Bill Cosby's nephew), Eddie Steeples (My Name is Earl), and actress Lindee Link (Christian music singer Twila Paris' cousin). Grammy nominee Bryan Duncan wrote and performed the theme song for the new TV project. Darren Marlar is the series creator, producer, writer and also acts in the show.
Animal Planet Hopes to Create Its Own 'Duck Dynasty'
Animal Planet's own wilderness-loving, gun-toting, God-fearing family will be hitting cable reality television this spring.
A six-episode series, "Alaska Bush Family," will center around the Brown family, Ami and Billy, and their nine children who live in rural Alaska.
The Browns, who live in relative isolation in the nation's largest state, moved to Alaska after a series of events that began with Billy's parents dying when he was just 16. After he met Ami, the couple traveled around the lower 48 states before discovering Alaska.
"When Alaska opened up to us it was like a readymade home to us," Billy told the Television Critics Assocation winter press tour on Thursday.
"Our family is doing what is natural for human beings to do. We survive on what we hunt, fish, trap and barter for," he added.
The couple's youngest daughter, Rainy, 11, said that she loves the "freedom" that the woods offers her.
Her mother agrees. "We figured out we didn't need modern society... we could live off the ocean and the forest," said Ami.
The Browns were discovered through Billy's writing - work that he did as part of his and his wife's homeschooling of their children. After one of his sons uploaded one of his stories online, producers found it and reached out to the family.
Gabe, 24, said that viewers may be surprised with how the family lives.
"It's not like we're backwards or cavemen even though our lifestyle can be quite primitive," he said.
But the rugged outdoor conditions have had little impact on the family's ability to bond with one another.
"Our family is a lot like a wolf pack or a clan 'cause we stick together. We're like the three musketeers, actually. It's all for one and one for all," Bear, 26, said.
What does Billy hope viewers will take away from the show?
"God and family values. Not putting anybody down, [but] I think it's something we're losing today," he said.
"We spent 30 years of our life trying to stay as far away as we could from this stuff and people," Brown added. "[But] we think it's cool to show people how we live."
Directors of 'The Butler,' 'Arrested Development,' and 'Good Will Hunting' Sign Up for '10 Commandments' TV Series
WGN has announced the first five directors for a 10-part television series of modern interpretations of the Ten Commandments.
Lee Daniels (The Butler), Michael Cera (Arrested Development), Gus Van Sant (Good Will Hunting), Wes Craven (Nightmare on Elm Street) and Jim Sheridan (In America), will all take turns giving their own interpretation of a particular commandment with the other directors to be announced at a later date.
Produced by Bruce Cohen (Silver Linings Playbook) and Bob Weinstein (Lord of the Rings), the show comes at a time when the cable network has begun expanding into original scripted programming. Weinstein and Cohen said that the directors were picked for their original and distinct directing styles.
"Each of these directors is acclaimed for their own unique brand of style and genre, so it's clear that we can expect 10 wildly different episodes from this series," Weinstein said as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
"With each helmer choosing his or her own creative team, it will be exciting to see their visions come together," said Cohen.
WGN President and GM Matt Cherniss has said that he saw the project as helping the channel to become a "destination network."
Lee Daniels (The Butler), Michael Cera (Arrested Development), Gus Van Sant (Good Will Hunting), Wes Craven (Nightmare on Elm Street) and Jim Sheridan (In America), will all take turns giving their own interpretation of a particular commandment with the other directors to be announced at a later date.
Produced by Bruce Cohen (Silver Linings Playbook) and Bob Weinstein (Lord of the Rings), the show comes at a time when the cable network has begun expanding into original scripted programming. Weinstein and Cohen said that the directors were picked for their original and distinct directing styles.
"Each of these directors is acclaimed for their own unique brand of style and genre, so it's clear that we can expect 10 wildly different episodes from this series," Weinstein said as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
"With each helmer choosing his or her own creative team, it will be exciting to see their visions come together," said Cohen.
WGN President and GM Matt Cherniss has said that he saw the project as helping the channel to become a "destination network."
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Kellan Lutz Watched ‘The Passion of the Christ’ Religiously to Prep for ‘Hercules’
Asked how he prepared to play the ancient mythical warrior in The Legend of Hercules, the star, Kellan Lutz, counted - among other things - his time spent on horseback during the shoot. “Riding a horse is a great workout for your legs, and for your core. And wielding the sword — I’m topless most of the time, so I’m able to do push-ups in between takes without sweating through the costume.”
Emotionally, Lutz credits his faith with helping him to connect to Hercules during some of the film’s more difficult scenes. “There’s a scene halfway through the movie that’s the crucifixion, where I ask my father Zeus for help. I’m a man of faith, so I would just religiously watch ‘The Passion of the Christ,’ and I’d use that.”
For the director, Renny Harlin, the story of Hercules had always been a source of fascination. “I grew up watching movies like ‘Spartacus’ and ‘Ben Hur,’ so to be able to make a movie like this, I think it’s every director’s dream.”
“If you look at all the modern comic book movies, they come from that mythology,” Harlin added. “And Hercules is the father of all superheroes.”
Emotionally, Lutz credits his faith with helping him to connect to Hercules during some of the film’s more difficult scenes. “There’s a scene halfway through the movie that’s the crucifixion, where I ask my father Zeus for help. I’m a man of faith, so I would just religiously watch ‘The Passion of the Christ,’ and I’d use that.”
For the director, Renny Harlin, the story of Hercules had always been a source of fascination. “I grew up watching movies like ‘Spartacus’ and ‘Ben Hur,’ so to be able to make a movie like this, I think it’s every director’s dream.”
“If you look at all the modern comic book movies, they come from that mythology,” Harlin added. “And Hercules is the father of all superheroes.”
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Candace Cameron Bure Responds to Controversy: People Think of "Submissive" in a "Perverted" Way
Who knew one little word could cause such a huge controversy? Candace Cameron Bure sparked a heated debate recently when she wrote in her book that she had taken a "submissive" role in her marriage to husband Valeri Bure. Though some people rallied to her defense, others critiqued her admission as anti-feminist and weak. But Bure, a devout Christian, says they're misinterpreting what she said.
"I think [the word "submissive"] sounds so ugly to so many people, especially when they don't understand the biblical definition of the word," the Full House alum said in an interview for HLN on Thursday, Jan. 9. "I think they're thinking of it in terms of a perverted Fifty Shades of Grey kind of definition, or an oppression, or even a dictatorship. And that is not what I'm talking about."
"In the biblical sense, submitting to my husband just means allowing my husband to lead his family because he loves our family and [is] making the best decisions for our family that he can," she explained further. Her so-called "submission," she said, is really just a choice "to respect those decisions and to encourage him to be the best man and father that he can possibly be to our family."
In her book, Balancing It All: My Story of Juggling Priorities and Purpose, the former child star wrote, "My husband is a natural-born leader. I quickly learned that I had to find a way of honoring his take-charge personality and not get frustrated about his desire to have the final decision on just about everything. I am not a passive person, but I chose to fall into a more submissive role in our relationship because I wanted to do everything in my power to make my marriage and family work."
Bure stressed to HLN that her 17-year marriage to her husband is a happy one. "We have a very wonderful marriage, and that's why I have felt comfortable sharing about it in my book. I had no idea this was going to stir this much controversy," she confessed. "We have a marriage in which we want to honor God...and so I just was explaining that. But this little word in there is causing everybody to just get into a tizzy about it."
That said, many agree with her views on relationships. "I've had so much support from my followers and my fans, and it's wonderful. And a lot of people agree," she shared. "They say that the people that are in disagreement and are being very ugly and spewing venom towards me about it, just simply don't understand the definition in which I'm using the word."
"Their eyes are not seeking the biblical blueprint of marriage, so I don't expect them to understand, and I do expect that they're going to be upset over it," the mom of three added of her naysayers, "because they're thinking about it from a different world view than I am."
The actress previously defended her views on HuffPost Live, noting that "submissive" does not necessarily mean weak. "It is meekness, it is not weakness," she explained. "It is strength under control, it is bridled strength."
To further prove her point, she shared a picture of herself working out and flexing her impressive arm muscles. "Nothing weak about this," she captioned the Instagram shot. "People talk about what they don't understand."
"I think [the word "submissive"] sounds so ugly to so many people, especially when they don't understand the biblical definition of the word," the Full House alum said in an interview for HLN on Thursday, Jan. 9. "I think they're thinking of it in terms of a perverted Fifty Shades of Grey kind of definition, or an oppression, or even a dictatorship. And that is not what I'm talking about."
"In the biblical sense, submitting to my husband just means allowing my husband to lead his family because he loves our family and [is] making the best decisions for our family that he can," she explained further. Her so-called "submission," she said, is really just a choice "to respect those decisions and to encourage him to be the best man and father that he can possibly be to our family."
In her book, Balancing It All: My Story of Juggling Priorities and Purpose, the former child star wrote, "My husband is a natural-born leader. I quickly learned that I had to find a way of honoring his take-charge personality and not get frustrated about his desire to have the final decision on just about everything. I am not a passive person, but I chose to fall into a more submissive role in our relationship because I wanted to do everything in my power to make my marriage and family work."
Bure stressed to HLN that her 17-year marriage to her husband is a happy one. "We have a very wonderful marriage, and that's why I have felt comfortable sharing about it in my book. I had no idea this was going to stir this much controversy," she confessed. "We have a marriage in which we want to honor God...and so I just was explaining that. But this little word in there is causing everybody to just get into a tizzy about it."
That said, many agree with her views on relationships. "I've had so much support from my followers and my fans, and it's wonderful. And a lot of people agree," she shared. "They say that the people that are in disagreement and are being very ugly and spewing venom towards me about it, just simply don't understand the definition in which I'm using the word."
"Their eyes are not seeking the biblical blueprint of marriage, so I don't expect them to understand, and I do expect that they're going to be upset over it," the mom of three added of her naysayers, "because they're thinking about it from a different world view than I am."
The actress previously defended her views on HuffPost Live, noting that "submissive" does not necessarily mean weak. "It is meekness, it is not weakness," she explained. "It is strength under control, it is bridled strength."
To further prove her point, she shared a picture of herself working out and flexing her impressive arm muscles. "Nothing weak about this," she captioned the Instagram shot. "People talk about what they don't understand."
Friday, January 10, 2014
Ebony Magazine Features David And Tamela Mann
To usher in Valentine's Day, EBONY magazine is showcasing the love among three African-American couples in its February 2014 issue. Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey, Carmelo and La La Anthony and David and Tamela Mann will each have their own cover, and inside the magazine, readers can learn about the spouses' love stories, how they knew they had found "the one," and what they do keep the fires burning.
This is the first time each of the celebrity power couples will grace a magazine cover with his or her spouse and offer exclusive insight into their relationship.
When asked what ignites their love and how they maintain the passion in their relationships, the following responses were given:
"Stay in love because when you're in love, it covers a multitude of fault. Our relationship wasn't based on good sex or having a lot of money. It was based on just straight friendship. That's what has kept us." -David Mann
"I pray and ask God to keep my heart and my eyes burning only for David Mann. I speak his name in my prayers, because I want the desire to stay, so when he touches me, I get chills." -Tamela Mann
The issue is available on newsstands beginning January 7.
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Tim Tebow Returns to TV
Tim Tebow has reiterated his interest in being a quarterback in the NFL after it was announced this week that he has been hired by ESPN as a college football analyst for the SEC Network.
The former Florida Gators quarterback said during a conference call with reporters on Tuesday that although he is grateful and excited for his new opportunity with the ESPN network, he still wishes to continue his career as a quarterback long term. The 26-year-old began playing for the NFL in 2010 for the Denver Broncos, and then moved on to the New York Jets where he endured a tougher spell. Over the 2013 preseason period he played with the New England Patriots but was dropped before the regular season got underway.
Tebow told reporters he still trains five days a week, saying: "I feel like I'm the best that I've ever been as a quarterback right now, and I hope I get the opportunity to show that."
The NFL free agent went on to add that he is excited about his ESPN opportunity, saying "but who knows what the next few months will hold?"
Tebow's contract as an analyst for ESPN includes an out clause that allows the athlete to leave the network should a team express interest in recruiting him.
Tebow added on Tuesday that he hopes to be both an objective and positive analyst for EPSN: "I would love to continue to be someone that is positive but also be someone that is objective," Tebow said.
"I have never had a hard time saying what I believe or standing up for something, and hopefully, I can continue to be that same person as an analyst and sharing what I believe about players, about teams, about games."
The evangelical football player will be serving as an analyst for "SEC Nation," where he will travel to league campuses each week to host a Saturday morning pre-game show. While working as a network analyst, Tebow will also contribute to other ESPN sports programs, such as "SportsCenter" and ESPN Radio.
Tebow released a statement Monday announcing his excitement at the new opportunity: "I am so excited that ESPN has given me this incredible opportunity. When I was 6 years old, I fell in love with the game of football, and while I continue to pursue my dream of playing quarterback in the NFL, this is an amazing opportunity to be part of the unparalleled passion of college football and the SEC."
Justin Connolly, ESPN's senior vice president of programming for college networks, added in a statement that Tebow "is an SEC icon with a national fan base and broad appeal. He will be a significant contributor to the compelling content we will deliver with the SEC Network. Tim brings a wealth of knowledge about the game, the conference and the passion among SEC fans."
The NFL quarterback will begin his new analyst gig when Texas A&M opens the 2014 college football season at South Carolina in August.
The former Florida Gators quarterback said during a conference call with reporters on Tuesday that although he is grateful and excited for his new opportunity with the ESPN network, he still wishes to continue his career as a quarterback long term. The 26-year-old began playing for the NFL in 2010 for the Denver Broncos, and then moved on to the New York Jets where he endured a tougher spell. Over the 2013 preseason period he played with the New England Patriots but was dropped before the regular season got underway.
Tebow told reporters he still trains five days a week, saying: "I feel like I'm the best that I've ever been as a quarterback right now, and I hope I get the opportunity to show that."
The NFL free agent went on to add that he is excited about his ESPN opportunity, saying "but who knows what the next few months will hold?"
Tebow's contract as an analyst for ESPN includes an out clause that allows the athlete to leave the network should a team express interest in recruiting him.
Tebow added on Tuesday that he hopes to be both an objective and positive analyst for EPSN: "I would love to continue to be someone that is positive but also be someone that is objective," Tebow said.
"I have never had a hard time saying what I believe or standing up for something, and hopefully, I can continue to be that same person as an analyst and sharing what I believe about players, about teams, about games."
The evangelical football player will be serving as an analyst for "SEC Nation," where he will travel to league campuses each week to host a Saturday morning pre-game show. While working as a network analyst, Tebow will also contribute to other ESPN sports programs, such as "SportsCenter" and ESPN Radio.
Tebow released a statement Monday announcing his excitement at the new opportunity: "I am so excited that ESPN has given me this incredible opportunity. When I was 6 years old, I fell in love with the game of football, and while I continue to pursue my dream of playing quarterback in the NFL, this is an amazing opportunity to be part of the unparalleled passion of college football and the SEC."
Justin Connolly, ESPN's senior vice president of programming for college networks, added in a statement that Tebow "is an SEC icon with a national fan base and broad appeal. He will be a significant contributor to the compelling content we will deliver with the SEC Network. Tim brings a wealth of knowledge about the game, the conference and the passion among SEC fans."
The NFL quarterback will begin his new analyst gig when Texas A&M opens the 2014 college football season at South Carolina in August.
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