The following is a press release from the Country Music Association (CMA) and ABC:
Excitement continues to build as the first round of performers are announced for “The 51st Annual CMA Awards,” hosted for the 10th year by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, and airing live from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Wednesday, November 8, 2017 (8:00-11:00 p.m. EST).
Fans will enjoy special performances by CMA Awards nominees Garth Brooks, Brothers Osborne, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Old Dominion, Jon Pardi, Chris Stapleton, Thomas Rhett and Underwood. Alan Jackson, 2017 Country Music Hall of Fame Inductee and 16-time CMA Award winner, will also take center stage during Country Music’s Biggest Night.
Reigning Entertainer of the Year Brooks returns this year with his 12th career nomination for CMA Entertainer of the Year, a title he has won five times (1991, 1992, 1997, 1998, 2016). He is the most awarded artist in this category.
Current CMA Vocal Duo Brothers Osborne received their first Music Video nod for “It Ain’t My Fault” and will once again vie for Vocal Duo, their third nomination in the category.
Bryan is a two-time consecutive Entertainer of the Year (2014, 2015), returning to compete for his fifth nomination in the category. He has garnered 15 CMA Award nominations since 2010.
Up for three nominations this year, Church is a three-time CMA Award winner with 25 total career nods. He returns this year with recognition in the Entertainer of the Year category, in addition to Musical Event and his sixth consecutive nomination for Male Vocalist.
With five nominations under her belt this year, Lambert tops the list of finalists with nods in the Single and Song of the Year categories for “Tin Man,” Album with “The Weight of These Wings,” Music Video of the Year for “Vice,” and her 11th nomination for Female Vocalist, a category she has won six times consecutively (2010-2015). She has a career total of 44 CMA Award nominations and is the most awarded female in CMA Awards history, nabbing 12 trophies since 2010.
Little Big Town claims four nominations this year including Vocal Group, Album for The Breaker, and Single and Music Video for “Better Man.” They are seven-time CMA Award winners with a career total of 26 CMA Award nominations.
Old Dominion receives their second nominations in both Vocal Group and New Artist of the Year, securing four career CMA Award nods.
First-time nominee Pardi vies for two categories with nominations for New Artist of the Year and Single for “Dirt On My Boots,” which he co-produced. He receives one nomination for Single of the Year, but can receive an additional trophy as producer.
Stapleton is a five-time CMA Award winner nominated for Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist, and Album for “From A Room: Volume 1.” He receives one nomination for Album but can receive an additional trophy as producer. This is his third consecutive nomination for Male Vocalist, which he has won the past two years. He was also nominated for Entertainer of the Year last year and won Album for “Traveller” in 2015. He is an 11-time CMA Award nominee.
Thomas Rhett receives first-time nominations in three categories – Musical Event and Music Video for “Craving You,” featuring Maren Morris, and Male Vocalist. He took home his first CMA Award last year, securing Single of the Year with “Die A Happy Man.”
With six CMA Awards to her name, co-host Underwood returns to vie for Female Vocalist, a category she has won four times (2006-2008, 2016) and nominated for consecutively since 2006.
With 81 career nominations, Jackson is the second most nominated artist in CMA Awards history. This year marks Jackson’s 24th CMA Awards performance since debuting in 1990 with “Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow.” He will receive Country Music’s highest honor, induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, on Sunday, Oct. 22, during the official Medallion Ceremony at the CMA Theater.
Winners of “The 51st Annual CMA Awards” will be determined in a final round of voting by eligible CMA members. The third and final ballot closes Wednesday, Oct. 25 (6:00 p.m. CST). Ballots will be tabulated by the professional services organization Deloitte & Touche LLP.
“The 51st Annual CMA Awards” is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the executive producer and Gary Halvorson is the director.
The following is a press release from Dick Clark Productions:
The 2017 American Music Awards will mark the 45th anniversary of the legendary music awards show that has brought fans the biggest musical superstars and most compelling live performances over the last four decades. As the kick-off to this year’s highly anticipated show, international music sensation Ciara today announced six categories from the 2017 American Music Awards nominees live on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” followed by a full reveal of all nominees via Facebook Live on the American Music Awards and Billboard pages.
The 2017 American Music Awards will broadcast live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, November 19, 2017 at 8:00pm ET on ABC. The American Music Awards, the world’s largest fan-voted awards show, is where music enthusiasts watch their favorite artists and pop culture icons come together to honor idols, newcomers and record-breakers in the contemporary music scene. From Pop and Rock, to Country, Hip Hop and beyond, this year’s show will celebrate 45 years of the best moments in music with appearances by today’s brightest stars and live performances from the biggest names in music.
Bruno Mars leads with eight nominations, including Artist of the Year, Video of the Year, and Favorite Male Artist – Pop/Rock. The Chainsmokers, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Ed Sheeran and The Weeknd tied with five nominations each. Justin Bieber, Daddy Yankee and Luis Fonsi received four nominations each. Additionally, Keith Urban earned three nominations.
The Artist of the Year nominees are Bruno Mars, The Chainsmokers, Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Ed Sheeran. Voting for Artist of the Year opened today and will close on Thursday, November 16 at 8:59:59pm PT. Voting for all other editorial categories closes on Monday, November 13 at 8:59:59am PT.
American Music Awards nominees are based on key fan interactions as reflected in Billboard Magazine and on Billboard.com, including album and digital song sales, radio airplay, streaming, social activity and touring. These measurements are tracked by Billboard and its data partners, including Nielsen Music and Next Big Sound.
The American Music Awards winners are voted entirely by fans. Voting opened today in all categories except New Artist of the Year presented by T-Mobile and Collaboration of the Year presented by Xfinity, which will both open on Wednesday, November 1.
For New Artist of the Year presented by T-Mobile and Collaboration of the Year presented by Xfinity, fans can vote for each award 100 times per day, per voting platform in one or both of the ways below. Fans can vote for all other awards once per day, per voting platform.
Posting a tweet on Twitter that includes the nominee’s name or Twitter handle, the category name and #AMAs within the tweet
2017 AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS TOP NOMINATED ARTISTS CHART FACTS:
Celebrated musician BrunoMars’ third full-length studio album, 24KMagic, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart, granting the performer his third top 10 effort. The album spun off a trio of top 40-charting hits on the Billboard Hot 100, so far: “24K Magic,” “That’s What I Like” and “Versace On the Floor.” In 2017, “That’s What I Like” became Mars’ seventh No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, following his previous leaders “Uptown Funk!” (Mark Ronson featuring Mars), “When I Was Your Man,” “Locked Out of Heaven,” “Grenade,” “Just the Way You Are” and “Nothin’ On You” (B.o.B featuring Mars).
Debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart in December of 2016, The Weeknd’s Starboy album marked his second straight No. 1, following 2015’s Beauty Behind the Madness. Starboy yielded a No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit with its title track, as well as a No. 4 smash with “I Feel It Coming.” Both tracks feature Daft Punk. All 18 songs from Starboy charted on the Billboard Hot 100.
R&B singer Drake’s MoreLife was his seventh straight album to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. MoreLife became the first album to earn over 375 million on-demand U.S. audio streams of its tracks in a single week, according to Nielsen Music. The album set the record in the week ending March 24. Drake wrapped a record 431 consecutive weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 in August, which dates back to his first appearance in 2009. The streak is the longest among all artists in Hot 100 history. Drake placed a record 24 titles on the Hot 100 at once, on the chart dated April 8, 2017. Drake linked 51 straight weeks in the Hot 100’s top 10, the longest streak by a male act. His run began on Oct. 3, 2015 with “Hotline Bling” and ended on Sept. 24, 2016, when “One Dance” fell from the tier. Drake has placed a record 157 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 in his career.
Rapper and song-writer Kendrick Lamar earned his first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit as a lead act with “Humble.” in 2017. He scored his second No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 with DAMN., which had the best first-sales week of his career (353,000 copies sold in its first week, according to Nielsen Music). Lamar was the first artist of 2017 to post two concurrent titles in the Hot 100’s top five with “Humble.” and “DNA.” on May 6.
Ed Sheeran scored his first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 in 2017 with “Shape of You,” which debuted at No. 1 and reigned for 12 weeks. “Shape of You” broke the record for the most time spent in the Billboard Hot 100’s top 10: 33 weeks. Sheeran became the first artist to debut two titles in the Billboard Hot 100’s top 10 simultaneously, with “Shape of You” and “Castle on the Hill.” Sheeran earned his second Billboard 200 No. 1 album with ÷ (Divide). Upon its No. 1 debut on the Billboard 200, ÷ (Divide) generated 13 simultaneous entries on the Billboard Hot 100 songs chart.
Music duo of Drew Taggart and Andrew Pall, The Chainsmokers, charted three songs in the Billboard Hot 100’s top 10 in the past year, including the chart-topping “Closer,” featuring Halsey. “Closer” became just the 17th song in the Hot 100’s history to spend at least 12 weeks at No. 1. “Closer” spent 27 weeks at No. 1 on Hot Dance/Electronic Songs, breaking the 26-week record previously held by Avicii’s “Wake Me Up!” The Chainsmokers earned three No. 1 hits on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart over the past year: “Closer,” “Paris” and “Something Just Like This,” with Coldplay. Their debut full-length set Memories…Do Not Open opened at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. It was the first No. 1 for a dance/electronic album in three-and-a-half years.
Pop superstar Justin Bieber joined Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee on the No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit “Despacito.” It tied the record for the longest run at No. 1 — 16 weeks. With “Despacito,” Bieber jumped to his first No. 1 on Billboard‘s Hot Latin Songs chart. Bieber banked his first No. 1 on both the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Hot Rap Songs charts as featured on DJ Khaled’s all-star “I’m the One.” Bieber became the first artist ever to tally new No. 1s on the Billboard Hot 100 in back-to-back weeks, with “I’m the One” and “Despacito” (on charts May 20 and 27). Bieber has spent more than three years cumulatively at No. 1 on Billboard‘s Social 50 chart, easily the most among all acts since the list’s inception at the start of the decade.
Daddy Yankee claimed his first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Despacito” (Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee featuring Justin Bieber), which tied the record for most weeks spent at No. 1: 16 weeks. “Despacito” spent 16 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 – tying the record for the longest run at No. 1 in the chart’s history. He has tallied more than 50 hits on the Hot Latin Songs chart, including top 40-charting singles in the past year like “Hula Hoop” and “La Rompe Corazones,” with Ozuna.
Puerto Rican singer-songwriter Luis Fonsi’s “Despacito,” with Daddy Yankee and featuring Justin Bieber, spent 16 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 – tying the record for the longest run at No. 1 in the chart’s history. “Despacito” marked Fonsi’s third hit on the Hot 100, but he’s been charting hits on the Hot Latin Songs chart since 1998, where he’s notched 30 hits. Overall, on Hot Latin Songs, Fonsi has collected 11 top 10 hits, seven of which reached No. 1 (including “Despacito”).
Premier country musician Keith Urban’s “The Fighter,” featuring Carrie Underwood, marked the former’s 38th straight top 10 on the Hot Country Songs chart. Urban’s hit “Blue Ain’t Your Color” topped Hot Country Songs for 12 weeks from Nov. 19, 2016 – Feb. 4, 2017. His latest album, 2016’s Ripcord, became his fifth Top Country Albums No. 1 and sixth top 10 on the Billboard 200. “The Fighter” reached No. 40 on Billboard’s Adult Pop Songs airplay chart, his first hit on the chart since 2009’s “Kiss a Girl.” Further, the crossover track climbed to No. 15 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart.
Pop superstar Rihanna notched her 60th hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Wild Thoughts” (DJ Khaled featuring Rihanna and Bryson Tiller). “Wild Thoughts” became the diva’s 31st top 10 hit on the Hot 100 and seventh No. 1 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. She added three new No. 1s on the Rhythmic Songs airplay chart in the past year: “Too Good” (Drake featuring Rihanna), “Loyalty.” (Kendrick Lamar featuring Rihanna) and “Wild Thoughts.”
Sponsors for the 2017 American Music Awards include Comcast’s Xfinity and T-Mobile. Media partners include Cumulus Media/ Westwood One and Music Choice.
The “2017 American Music Awards” is produced by dick clark productions. Allen Shapiro and Mike Mahan are Executive Producers. Larry Klein, Barry Adelman and Mark Bracco are Producers.
Below please find the full list of nominations for the 2017 American Music Awards®:
Luke Bryan (Photo by Michele Crowe/CBS)Lionel Richie (Photo by: Nathan Congleton/NBC)
The following is a press release from ABC:
Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie have signed on as judges for the beloved music competition series “American Idol” for its first season on ABC. They round out the panel of judges, alongside judge Katy Perry. Ryan Seacrest will return to host the series. The panel will make their debut appearance on ABC’s “Good Morning America” on Wednesday, October 4.
“I’m excited at the chance to help some deserving artists reach their dreams,” said Bryan. “To be in a position in my career to help facilitate this along with the other judges is just a complete honor. It’s gonna be a blast!”
“I am very excited to be joining Katy, Luke and Ryan on ‘American Idol,’” said Richie. “As a singer, songwriter and producer, I feel I can bring a great deal of experience to the table. It’s going to be so much fun!”
“Luke and Lionel are the perfect additions to round out our panel of judges for ‘American Idol’ on ABC,” said Channing Dungey, president, ABC Entertainment. “In their respective genres of music, both Luke and Lionel possess insurmountable popularity and award-winning talent that are undeniable, and we are lucky that they will help in paving the way for hopefuls pursuing their dreams on our stage.”
Trish Kinane, president of Entertainment Programming, FremantleMedia North America, executive producer and showrunner of “American Idol,” said, “We have taken our time to get the right mix of amazing talent for the new Idol judging panel. Our viewers expect musical credibility, passion and a true concern for the contestants; and with Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie joining the brilliant Katy Perry, we have two more world-class musical powerhouses eager to get to work and identify the next generation of superstars.”
Peter Hurwitz, CEO and president of 19 Entertainment-parent Core Media Group, said, “This extraordinary panel of judges speaks volumes about the continued power of the iconic ‘American Idol’ brand. We are thrilled to have Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan join Katy Perry and, ultimately, millions of viewers as we begin this new era on ABC.”
Yesterday, Bryan kicked off his ninth annual Farm Tour performing in six cities through October 7. Since the tour’s inception in 2009, Bryan has awarded 50 scholarships to a local student from a farming family within the communities the tour has played. Bryan will also continue his Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day Tour through October.
Bryan is a two-time Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year, a five-time host of the ACM Awards and the 2017 Super Bowl LI national anthem performer. Luke has placed 18 singles at No.1, sold over 10 million albums and more than 40 million tracks with three billion music streams, and has performed for millions of fans on tour. He recently debuted a new single, “Light It Up,” which is the first song off a new album due out later this year.
Singer-songwriter, record producer and international superstar Lionel Richie has a discography of albums and singles that are second to none. His music is part of the fabric of pop music; in fact, Richie is one of only two songwriters in history to achieve the honor of having No. 1 records for nine consecutive years. With more than 100 million albums sold worldwide, an Oscar®, a Golden Globe®, four Grammy Awards®, the distinction of MusicCares person of the year in 2016, and Kennedy Center Honoree in 2017, the Tuskegee, Alabama, native is a true music icon.
Richie is known for his mega-hits such as “Endless Love,” “Lady,” “Truly,” “All Night Long,” “Penny Lover,” “Stuck on You,” “Hello,” “Say You, Say Me,” “Dancing on the Ceiling,” and one of the most important pop songs in history, “We Are the World,” written with Michael Jackson for USA for Africa. His song catalog also includes his early work with The Commodores, where he developed a groundbreaking style that defied genre categories, penning smashes such as “Three Times a Lady,” “Still” and “Easy.”
Richie launched his Las Vegas headlining residency show, Lionel Richie – All the Hits, at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in April 2016. In an unforgettable evening featuring his brightest and best anthems which have defined the music icon’s unparalleled career, Richie takes his fans on a spectacular musical journey, performing a variety of his seminal hits. With his most recent All the Hits, All Night Long Tour, Richie sold out arenas worldwide with a set list of his brightest and best anthems. In recent years, he also headlined festivals including Bonnaroo, Outside Lands and Glastonbury, drawing the festival’s biggest crowd ever with more than 200,000 attendees.
When “American Idol” debuted in the U.S., the series revolutionized television, pioneering the reality-competition genre and holding an unmatched record for being the highest-rated series for nearly a decade. The series also ushered in second-screen audience participation, being the first to introduce text-based and mobile voting. The “Idol” format has taken on original versions in 55 countries around the world, and “American Idol” itself has played to a worldwide audience of over 460 million across 53 countries. At its new home on ABC, “American Idol” will continue to be a force in the television landscape, reaching every corner of the country in its search for the next great music sensation.
“American Idol” is produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group. Executive producers include FremantleMedia North America’s Trish Kinane and Jennifer Mullin along with co-executive producer, Megan Wolflick. FremantleMedia International distributes the series worldwide.
Drake at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images via ABC)
With 13 prizes (including Top Artist), hip-hop artist Drake was the top winner at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards, which took place May 21 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. ABC had the U.S. telecast at 8 p.m. Eastern Time/5 p.m. Pacific Time. Drake now holds the record for the most Billboard Music Awards won in a single year. (Adele was the previous record holder, with 12 Billboard Music Awards.) Drake and the Chainsmokers went into the ceremony with 22 nominations each. The Chainsmokers ended up winning four Billboard Music Awards. Other multiple winners included Twenty-One Pilots and Beyoncé, whowon five awards each. Wizkid and Kyla received three awards each. Desiigner, Juan Gabriel and Kenny Chesney won two awards each.
According to a press release, the Billboard Music Awards nominees are based on key fan interactions with music, including album and digital songs sales, streaming, radio airplay, touring and social engagement. These measurements are tracked year-round by Billboard and its data partners, including Nielsen Music and Next Big Sound. The awards are based on the reporting period of March 18, 2016 through March 16, 2017. The Billboard Music Awards are produced by Dick Clark Productions.
Rapper/actorLudacris and actress/singer Vanessa Hudgens hosted the show. Presenters included Kate Beckinsale, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Mark Cuban, Noah Cyrus, Alexandra Daddario, DJ Khaled, Josh Duhamel, Ansel Elgort, Sara Foster, G-Eazy, Kevin Hart, Ed Helms, Prince Michael Jackson, Rachel Lindsay, Lea Michele, Olivia Munn, Rita Ora, Logan Paul, Rachel Platten, Bebe Rexha, Nicole Scherzinger, Miss America 2017 Savvy Shields, Jussie Smollett, Hailee Steinfeld, Lindsey Stirling, and Ashley Tisdale.
Performers included Camila Cabello, the Chainsmokers, Miley Cyrus, jason Derulo, Celine Dion, Drake, Florida Georgia Line, David Guetta Halsey, Sam Hunt, Imagine Dragons, John Legend, lil Wayne, Lorde, Bruno Mars, Julia Michaels, Nicki Minaj, Ed Sheeran and 2017 Billboard Music Awards ICON Award recipient Cher.
During her acceptance speech, Cher thanked several people. particularly her mother: “When I was young, my mom said, ‘You’re not going to be the smartest, you’re not going to be the prettiest, you’re not going to be the most talent, but you’re going to be special.”
Here is an excerpt from a Billboard Music Awards press release:
The show was filled with iconic moments, with performances and celebrations for every generation. Fresh artists like Julia Michaels and Camila Cabello won over fans with performances of their new singles, as did the legends. Giving her first award show performance in 15 years, Cher had the audience on their feet, delivering electrifying renditions of her classic hits “Believe” and “If I Could Turn Back Time.” She graciously accepted the ICON Award, presented to her by Gwen Stefani, and gave a powerful speech about her unparalleled career and how she has been able to live out her childhood dream for the past fifty-three years. Cher told the audience, “I have wanted to do what I do since I was 4 years old, and I’ve been doing this for 53 years.” Last year’s ICON Award recipient, Celine Dion, sparkled beneath an elaborate chandelier, belting out her hit single “My Heart Will Go On,” in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Titanic.
Making a very special appearance, Sean “Diddy” Combs and Biggie’s son, Christopher Wallace, on what would have been the 45th birthday of Notorious B.I.G., introduced a clip of the 1997 Billboard Music Awards when Diddy presented Biggie’s mother, Voletta Wallace, with the “Best R&B Album” trophy won by her late son. Following the clip, Diddy unveiled a never-before-seen trailer for his new Apple Music documentary “Can’t Stop Won’t Stop: A Bad Boy Story.”
Nicki Minaj, having recently just broken Aretha Franklin’s record for female artist with the most Billboard Hot 100 Hits, opened the show with an explosive 10-minute performance and was joined on stage by Lil Wayne, David Guetta, and Jason Derulo as she performed a medley of “No Frauds,” “Light My Body Up,” Swalla,” and “Regret In Your Tears.” Later in the evening, against a peaceful ocean background, Miley Cyrus performed her popular new single “Malibu” for the first time to a worldwide television audience.
Perhaps the most unique performance came from the evening’s biggest winner, Drake, who performed live from the middle of the Bellagio fountains, surrounded by the world-famous water displays and equally powerful pyrotechnics. Audiences in the arena, and on the Vegas strip, were mesmerized as he navigated the scene while rapping “Gyalchester” off his new album “More Life.”
Lorde’s intimate rendition of “Green Light” had the crowd dancing and singing along, while Halsey’s “Now or Never” performance was filled with both flower and fire power. Ed Sheeran delivered a heartfelt rendition of his new song “Castle on the Hill” from a sold-out performance in Santiago, Chile.
Imagine Dragons delivered touching remarks in memory of the late Soundgarden and Audioslave Frontman Chris Cornell, before giving a powerful performance of their new song, “Believer.” Fellow rock artists, and multi-nominees, The Chainsmokers also took to the stage to perform their hit “Young.”
Country music was also well represented throughout the evening, with Sam Hunt giving a stunning performance of “Body Like a Back Road” and Florida Georgia Line being joined by John Legend for a unique melding of their songs “Surefire” and “H.O.L.Y.”
The final performance of the evening came from Bruno Mars, who gave a sultry delivery of his single “Versace on the Floor” from the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam.
Here is the complete list of nominees and winners of the 2017 Billboard Music Awards:
Top Artist:
Adele
Beyoncé
Justin Bieber
The Chainsmokers Drake***
Ariana Grande
Shawn Mendes
Rihanna
Twenty One Pilots
The Weeknd
Top New Artist:
Alessia Cara
Desiigner
Lil Uzi Vert
Lukas Graham Zayn***
Top Christian Artist: Lauren Daigle***
Hillsong Worship
Hillary Scott & The Scott Family
Skillet
Chris Tomlin
Top Gospel Artist:
Jekalyn Carr Kirk Franklin***
Travis Greene
Tamela Mann
Hezekiah Walker
ALBUM AWARDS
Top Billboard 200 Album:
Beyoncé “Lemonade” Drake “Views”***
Rihanna “Anti”
Twenty One Pilots “Blurryface”
The Weeknd “Starboy”
Top Soundtrack/Cast Album: “Hamilton: An American Musical”***
“Moana”
“Purple Rain”
“Suicide Squad: The Album”
“Trolls”
Top R&B Album: Beyoncé “Lemonade”***
Bruno Mars “24K Magic”
Frank Ocean “Blonde”
Rihanna “Anti”
The Weeknd “Starboy”
Top Rap Album:
J. Cole “4 Your Eyez Only” Drake “Views”***
Kevin Gates “Islah”
DJ Khaled “Major Key”
A Tribe Called Quest “We Got It From Here…Thank You 4 Your Service”
Top Country Album:
Jason Aldean “They Don’t Know”
Florida Georgia Line “Dig Your Roots”
Blake Shelton “If I’m Honest” Chris Stapleton “Traveller”***
Keith Urban “Ripcord”
Top Rock Album:
The Lumineers “Cleopatra” Metallica “Hardwired…To Self-Destruct”***
Radiohead “A Moon Shaped Pool”
Red Hot Chili Peppers “The Getaway”
Twenty One Pilots “Blurryface”
Top Latin Album:
J Balvin “Energia”
CNCO “Primera Cita” Juan Gabriel “Los Dúo 2”***
Juan Gabriel “Vestido De Etiqueta: Por Eduardo Magallanes”
Los Plebes del Rancho de Ariel Camacho “Recuerden Mi Estilo”
Top Dance/Electronic Album:
The Chainsmokers “Bouquet (EP)”
The Chainsmokers “Collage (EP)”
Flume “Skin”
Kygo “Cloud Nine” Lindsey Stirling “Brave Enough”***
Top Christian Album:
Casting Crowns “The Very Next Thing” Lauren Daigle “How Can It Be”***
Joey + Rory “Hymns”
Hillary Scott & The Scott Family “Love Remains”
Skillet “Unleashed”
Top Gospel Album: Tamela Mann “One Way”***
Kirk Franklin “Losing My Religion”
Travis Greene “The Hill”
Tasha Cobbs “One Place: Live”
Hezekiah Walker “Better: Azusa – The Next Generation 2”
SONG AWARDS
Top Hot 100 Song: The Chainsmokers Featuring Halsey “Closer”***
The Chainsmokers Featuring Daya “Don’t Let Me Down”
Drake Featuring Wizkid & Kyla “One Dance”
Justin Timberlake “Can’t Stop The Feeling!”
Twenty One Pilots “Heathens”
Top Selling Song:
The Chainsmokers Featuring Halsey “Closer”
The Chainsmokers Featuring Daya “Don’t Let Me Down”
Drake Featuring Wizkid & Kyla “One Dance” Justin Timberlake “Can’t Stop The Feeling!”***
Twenty One Pilots “Heathens”
Top Radio Song:
The Chainsmokers Featuring Halsey “Closer”
The Chainsmokers Featuring Daya “Don’t Let Me Down”
Drake Featuring Wizkid & Kyla “One Dance”
Sia Featuring Sean Paul “Cheap Thrills” Justin Timberlake “Can’t Stop The Feeling!”***
Top Streaming Song (Audio):
The Chainsmokers Featuring Halsey “Closer” Drake Featuring Wizkid & Kyla “One Dance”***
D.R.A.M. Featuring Lil Yachty “Broccoli”
Rihanna “Needed Me”
The Weeknd Featuring Daft Punk “Starboy”
Top Streaming Song (Video):
The Chainsmokers Featuring Halsey “Closer” Desiigner “Panda”***
Zay Hilfigerrr & Zayion McCall “JuJu On That Beat (TZ Anthem)”
Rae Sremmurd Featuring Gucci Mane “Black Beatles”
Twenty One Pilots “Heathens”
Top Collaboration: The Chainsmokers Featuring Halsey “Closer”***
The Chainsmokers Featuring Daya “Don’t Let Me Down”
Drake Featuring Wizkid & Kyla “One Dance”
Sia Featuring Sean Paul “Cheap Thrills”
The Weeknd Featuring Daft Punk “Starboy”
Top R&B Song: Drake Featuring Wizkid & Kyla “One Dance”***
Bruno Mars “24K Magic”
Rihanna “Needed Me”
Rihanna Featuring Drake “Work”
The Weeknd Featuring Daft Punk “Starboy”
Top R&B Collaboration: Drake Featuring Wizkid & Kyla “One Dance”***
PARTYNEXTDOOR Featuring Drake “Come And See Me”
Rihanna Featuring Drake “Work”
The Weeknd Featuring Daft Punk “I Feel It Coming”
The Weeknd Featuring Daft Punk “Starboy”
Top Rap Song: Desiigner “Panda”***
Drake “Fake Love”
D.R.A.M. Featuring Lil Yachty “Broccoli”
Migos Featuring Lil Uzi Vert “Bad And Boujee”
Rae Sremmurd Featuring Gucci Mane “Black Beatles”
Top Rap Collaboration:
D.R.A.M. Featuring Lil Yachty “Broccoli”
Zay Hilfigerrr & Zayion McCall “JuJu On That Beat (TZ Anthem)”
Machine Gun Kelly & Camila Cabello “Bad Things”
Migos Featuring Lil Uzi Vert “Bad and Boujee” Rae Sremmurd Featuring Gucci Mane “Black Beatles”***
Top Country Song:
Kenny Chesney Featuring P!NK “Setting The World On Fire” Florida Georgia Line “H.O.L.Y.”***
Florida Georgia Line Featuring Tim McGraw “May We All”
Little Big Town “Better Man”
Keith Urban “Blue Ain’t Your Color”
Top Country Collaboration:
Dierks Bentley Featuring Elle King “Different For Girls” Kenny Chesney Featuring P!NK “Setting The World On Fire”**
Eric Church Featuring Rhiannon Giddens “Kill A Word”
Florida Georgia Line Featuring Tim McGraw “May We All”
Chris Young Featuring Vince Gill “Sober Saturday Night”
Top Rock Song:
Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa & Imagine Dragons with Logic & Ty Dolla $ign Feat. X Ambassadors “Sucker For Pain” Twenty One Pilots “Heathens”***
Twenty One Pilots “Ride”
Twenty One Pilots “Stressed Out”
X Ambassadors “Unsteady”
Top Latin Song:
Daddy Yankee “Shaky Shaky”
Enrique Iglesias Featuring Wisin “Duele El Corazon” Nicky Jam “Hasta El Amanecer”***
Shakira Featuring Maluma “Chantaje”
Carlos Vives & Shakira “La Bicicleta”
Top Dance/Electronic Song: The Chainsmokers Featuring Halsey “Closer”***
The Chainsmokers Featuring Daya “Don’t Let Me Down”
Calvin Harris Featuring Rihanna “This Is What You Came For”
Major Lazer Featuring Justin Bieber & MØ “Cold Water”
DJ Snake Featuring Justin Bieber “Let Me Love You”
Top Christian Song:
Lauren Daigle “Trust In You” Hillary Scott & The Scott Family “Thy Will”***
Skillet “Feel Invincible”
Ryan Stevenson Featuring GabeReal “Eye Of The Storm”
Zach Williams “Chain Breaker”
Top Gospel Song:
Jekalyn Carr “You’re Bigger”
Tasha Cobbs Featuring Kierra Sheard “Put A Praise On It”
Kirk Franklin “Wanna Be Happy?” Travis Greene “Made A Way”***
Hezekiah Walker “Better”
2017 Billboard Music Awards Photo Highlights
Jussie Smollett and Nicole Scherzinger at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Celine Dion at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Blake Shelton at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
BTS at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Alexandra Daddario and Ansel Elgort at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Christopher Jordan Wallace and Sean Combs at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Lorde at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudens and Ludacris at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Sam Hunt at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Miley Cyrus at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
The Chainsmokers at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Florida Georgia Line at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Nicki Minaj at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Camila Cabello at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Ed Helms and Kevin Hart at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Kate Beckinsale at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
The Chainsmokers and Halsey (center) at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Bebe Rexha and DJ Khaled at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Julia Michaels at the 28th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Cher at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Cher at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Gwen Stefani and Cher at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
GWEN STEFANI, CHER
Lil Wayne at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Baka and Drake at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017.. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Halsey at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Chris Daughtry and Rachel Platten at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Rita Ora at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Florida Georgia Line and John Legend at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Hailee Steinfeld at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Jason Derulo at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Halsey and Machine Gun Kelly at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Billy Ray Cyrus, Noah Cyrus,Tish Cyrus, BrandI Cyrus and Miley Cyrus at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Drake at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017.(Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Josh Duhamel at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Lorde (pictured at left) at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Imagine Dragons at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017.(Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Logan Paul and Lindsey Sterling at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudgens Fashion at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards
Co-host Vanessa Hudgens changed her outfits several times during the show. Here’s a roundup of her different looks.
Vanessa Hudgens at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudgens and Ludacris at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudgens and Ludacris at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudgens at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Chris Polk/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudgens at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudgens at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudgens at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Vanessa Hudgens at the 24th Annual Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images via ABC)
Freddie Highmore in “The Good Doctor” (Photo courtesy of ABC)
ABC officially announced its 2017-2018 schedule during the network’s upfront presentation at Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall in New York City on May 16, 2017. Most of the existing shows had previously been announced as renewed. However, the upfront presentation made it official that “Toy Box” has been cancelled.
ABC is also reviving its Emmy-winning comedy “Roseanne” for eight episodes in 2018, with all of the show’s original stars back on board: Roseanne Barr, John Goodman, Sara Gilbert, Laurie Metcalf, Michael Fishman and Lecy Goranson. Sarah Chalke, who played the character Becky in later seasons, will also appear in another role.
New scripted shows include “Alex, Inc.,” “The Crossing,” “Deception,” “For The People,” “The Good Doctor,””The Gospel of Kevin,” “Marvel’s Inhumans,” “The Mayor” and “Splitting Up Together,” “Ten Days in The Valley.” New reality shows are “American Idol,” “The Bachelor Winter Games” and “Dancing With the Stars Junior.” Some of actors starring in these shows are known for being in past long-running hit shows. Kyra Sedgwick of “Ten Days in the Valley” formerly starred in “The Closer.” Freddie Highmore (“The Good Doctor”) previously starred in “Bates Motel.” Zach Braff (“Alex, Inc.”), who used to star in “Scrubs,” returns to a starring role on a TV series. Jenna Fischer (“Splitting Up Together”) is best known for being on the U.S. version of “The Office.” Jason Ritter (“The Gospel of Jason”) was a co-star of “Parenthood.”
There will be two new live musical event specials: “The Wonderful World of Disney: The Little Mermaid Live!’ and “Rolling Stone 50.”
Fall premiere dates will be announced at a later time. Please note that shows picked up but not listed on the schedule below will debut later in the 2017-18 season.
The following is an excerpt from an ABC press release:
ABC FALL 2017-18 SCHEDULE
All times listed are Eastern/Pacific Time.
MONDAY
8-10 p.m. “Dancing with the Stars”
10-11 p.m. “The Good Doctor”
TUESDAY
8-8:30 p.m. “The Middle”
8:30-9 p.m. “Fresh Off the Boat”**
9-9:30 p.m. “Black-ish”***
9:30-10 p.m. “The Mayor”
10-11 p.m. “The Gospel of Kevin”
8-9 p.m. “Grey’s Anatomy”
9-10 p.m. “Scandal”
10-11 p.m. “How to Get Away with Murder”
FRIDAY
8-9 p.m. “Once Upon a Time”***
9-10 p.m. “Marvel’s Inhumans”
10-11 p.m. “20/20”
SATURDAY
8 p.m. “Saturday Night Football”
SUNDAY
7-8 p.m. “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8-9 p.m. “To Tell the Truth” ***
9-10 p.m. “Shark Tank”***
10-11 p.m. “Ten Days in the Valley”
** = new time period
*** = new day and time period
NEW DRAMA SERIES
“THE CROSSING”
Sandrine Holt, Steve Zahn and Natalie Martinez in “The Crossing” (Photo/Bob D’Amico/ABC)
Refugees from a war-torn country seek asylum in a small American fishing town, only the country these people are from is America—and the war they are fleeing hasn’t happened yet. As the government tries to uncover the truth behind this mysterious migration only one thing is certain: The lives of the people here—both the townspeople and these newcomers—will never be the same. Writers Dan Dworkin & Jay Beattie executive produce with Jason Reed.
“The Crossing” stars Steve Zahn as Jude Miller, Natalie Martinez as Reece, Sandrine Holt as Emma Ren, Rick Gomez as Nestor, Jay Karnes as Craig Lindauer, Marcuis Harris as Caleb, Simone Kessel as Rebecca, Kelly Missal as Hannah, Rob Campbell as Paul, Grant Harvey as Roy, Bailey Skodje as Leah, Jon D’Leo as Will, Luc Roderique as Bryce and Tommy Bastow as Marshall.
The pilot is directed by Rob Bowman. The series is from ABC Studios.
“DECEPTION”
Jack Cutmore-Scott in “Deception” (Photo by Giovanni Rufino/ABC)
When his career is ruined by scandal, superstar magician Cameron Black has only one place to turn to practice his art of deception, influence and illusion—the FBI. Using every trick in the book and inventing new ones, he will help the government catch the world’s most elusive criminals while staging the biggest illusions of his career. The series is from writer/executive producer Chris Fedak (“Chuck”) and executive producers Greg Berlanti, Martin Gero and Sarah Schechter. Illusionist David Kwong (“Now You See Me”) will co-produce.
“Deception” stars Jack Cutmore-Scott as Cameron Black/Jonathan Black, Ilfenesh Hadera as Kay Daniels, Lenora Crichlow as Dina Clark, Amaury Nolasco as Mike Alvarez, Justin Chon as Jordan Kwon, Laila Robins as Special Agent Deakins and Vinnie Jones as Gunter Gustafsen.
The series is from Berlanti Productions and Quinn’s House in association with Warner Bros. Television. “Deception” is directed by David Nutter, who is also executive producer.
“FOR THE PEOPLE”
Susannah Flood, Ben Rappaport and Rege Jean Page in “For the People” (Photo by Eric McCandless/ABC)
Set in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, aka “The Mother Court,” this new Shondaland drama follows brand-new lawyers working for both the defense and the prosecution handling the most high-profile and high-stakes federal cases in the country – all as their lives intersect in and out of the courtroom. The series is created by Shondaland’s Paul William Davies and is executive produced by Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers.
The series, from ABC Studios, stars Ben Rappaport as Seth Oliver, Susannah Flood as Kate Littlejohn, Wesam Keesh as Jay Simmons, Regé-Jean Page as Leonard Knox, Ben Shenkman as Roger Gunn, Hope Davis as Jill Carlan, Vondie Curtis-Hall as Judge Nicholas Byrne and Anna Deavere Smith as Tina Krissman.
“THE GOOD DOCTOR”
Freddie Highmore in “The Good Doctor”(Photo by Liane Hentscher/ABC)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYlZDTru55g
Shaun Murphy (Freddie Highmore, “Bates Motel”), a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, relocates from a quiet country life to join a prestigious hospital’s surgical unit. Alone in the world and unable to personally connect with those around him, Shaun uses his extraordinary medical gifts to save lives and challenge the skepticism of his colleagues. The series is from David Shore (“House”), and “Lost” and “Hawaii Five-O” star Daniel Dae Kim.
The series stars Freddie Highmore as Dr. Shaun Murphy, Antonia Thomas as Dr. Claire Brown, Nicholas Gonzalez as Dr. Neal Melendez, Chuku Modu as Dr. Jared Kalu, Beau Garrett as Jessica Preston, Hill Harper as Dr. Marcus Andrews and Richard Schiff as Dr. Aaron Glassman.
The series is from Sony Pictures Television and ABC Studios. David Shore is writer and executive producer. Daniel Dae Kim, David Kim and Sebastian Lee are also executive producers. Seth Gordon directed the pilot and is also an executive producer.
“THE GOSPEL OF KEVIN”
Jason Ritter in “The Gospel of Kevin” (Photo by Ryan Green/ABC)
Kevin Finn (Jason Ritter, “Parenthood”), a cluelessly self-serving person, is on a dangerous path to despair. In a downward spiral, Kevin returns home to stay with his widowed twin sister (JoAnna Garcia Swisher, “Once Upon a Time”) and niece. On his first night there, an unlikely celestial being named Yvette appears to him and presents him with a mission: to save the world. A light drama from executive producers Michele Fazekas & Tara Butters (“Marvel’s Agent Carter,” “Resurrection,” “Reaper”).
“The Gospel of Kevin” stars Jason Ritter as Kevin Finn, JoAnna Garcia Swisher as Amy, J. August Richards as Nate, Chloe East as Reese, Dustin Ybarra as Tyler and India de Beaufort as Kristin.
The pilot is directed by Paul McGuigan. The series is from ABC Studios.
“MARVEL’S INHUMANS”
Eme Ikwuakor, Ken Leung, Anson Mount, Serinda Swan, Isabelle Cornish and Iwan Rheon. (Photo by Michael Muller/ABC)
“Marvel’s Inhumans” explores the never-before-told epic adventure of the royal family including Black Bolt, the enigmatic, commanding King of the Inhumans, with a voice so powerful that the slightest whisper can destroy a city. After the Royal Family of Inhumans is splintered by a military coup, they barely escape to Hawaii where their surprising interactions with the lush world and humanity around them may prove to not only save them, but Earth itself. The legendary comic book series will be brought to life in a way that has never been done before, as a version of the first two episodes will be shown globally in IMAX theaters for a two-week period beginning September 1, 2017. ABC will then air the entirety of the series on the network, with additional exclusive content that can only been seen on ABC.
“Marvel’s Inhumans” stars Anson Mount as Black Bolt, Iwan Rheon as Maximus, Serinda Swan as Medusa, Eme Ikwuakor as Gorgon, Isabelle Cornish as Crystal, Ken Leung as Karnak, Ellen Woglom as an undisclosed character, Sonya Balmores as Auran and Mike Moh as Triton.
The series is executive produced by Scott Buck, along with Marvel’s Jeph Loeb and Jim Chory with Buck serving as showrunner. Roel Reiné will direct the first two episodes. This series is a Marvel and IMAX project and is co-produced by Marvel Television and ABC Studios.
“TEN DAYS IN THE VALLEY”
Kick Gurry, Kyra Sedgwick and Erika Christensen in “Ten Days in the Valley” (Photo by Eric McCandless/ABC)
“Ten Days in the Valley” stars Kyra Sedgwick as Jane Sadler, an overworked television producer and single mother in the middle of a separation whose life is turned upside down when her young daughter goes missing in the middle of the night. Just like her controversial police TV show, everything is a mystery, everyone has a secret and no one can be trusted.
“Ten Days in the Valley” stars Kyra Sedgwick as Jane Sadler, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as John Bird, Kick Gurry as Pete Greene, Erika Christensen as Ali Petrovich, Felix Solis as David Gomez, Josh Randall as Tom Petrovich, Malcolm-Jamal Warner as Matt, Abigail Pniowsky as Lake and Francois Battiste as Gus.
“Ten Days in the Valley” is from Skydance Television. It is created and written by Tassie Cameron. Executive producers are Tassie Cameron, Kyra Sedgwick, Jill Littman, Dana Goldberg, David Ellison and Marcy Ross.
NEW COMEDY SERIES
“ALEX, INC.”
Audyssie Jame,, Elisha Henign, Tiya Sircar, Zach Braff, Hillary Anne Matthews and Michael Imperioli in “Alex, Inc.” (Photo by Craig Sjodin/ABC)
Based on the podcast StartUp, Alex Schuman (Zach Braff, “Scrubs”) is a brilliant radio journalist, husband and father of two who is about to do something crazy – quit his job and start his own company. He quickly discovers it’s going to be a lot harder than he thought. Zach Braff stars, directs and is executive producer with Matt Tarses (“Scrubs”) and Davis Entertainment (“Dr. Ken,” “Blacklist”).
Matt Tarses is writer and executive producer. Zach Braff is director and executive producer. John Davis and John Fox are executive producers of the series, from Davis Entertainment, as are Alex Blumberg, Chris Gilberti and Matt Lieber (Gimlet Media) in association with Sony Pictures Television and ABC Studios.
“THE MAYOR”
Brandon Micheal Hall, Yvette Nicole Brown, Bernard David Jones, Marcel Spears and Lea Michele in “The Mayor” (Photo by Craig Sjodin/ABC)
Young rapper Courtney Rose (Brandon Micheal Hall) needs his big break. For years he’s toiled away in a small inner-city apartment, making music in his junk-filled bedroom closet. Tired of waiting for opportunity, Courtney cooks up the publicity stunt of the century—running for mayor of his hometown in California to generate buzz for his music career. Unfortunately for Courtney, his master plan goes wildly awry, ending in the most terrifying of outcomes: an election victory. With the help of his mother (Yvette Nicole Brown, “Community”) and friends, including Valentina (“Glee’s” Lea Michele), Courtney will have to overcome his hubris if he wants to transform the struggling city he loves.
The series stars Brandon Micheal Hall as Courtney Rose, Lea Michele as Valentina, Bernard David Jones as Jermaine Hardaway, Marcel Spears as TK and Yvette Nicole Brown as Dina.
From executive producer Daveed Diggs (Tony winner for Broadway’s “Hamilton”), writer/executive producer Jeremy Bronson (“Speechless,” “The Mindy Project,” “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon”) and executive producer Jamie Tarses (“Happy Endings”), the series is from ABC Studios. The pilot is directed by executive producer James Griffiths (“black-ish”).
“SPLITTING UP TOGETHER”
Van Crosby, Jenna Fischer, Sander Thomas, Oliver Hudson and Olivia Keville in “Splitting Up Together” (Photo by Craig Sjodin/ABC)
Based on the Danish series, “Splitting Up Together” is the story of a couple (Jenna Fischer, “The Office,” Oliver Hudson, “Scream Queens”) whose marriage is reignited by their divorce. Emily Kapnek (“Suburgatory”) writes and serves as executive producer of this new comedy, along with Ellen DeGeneres.
The series stars Jenna Fischer as Lena, Oliver Hudson as Martin, Bobby Lee as Arthur, Diane Farr as Maya, Lindsay Price as Camille, Olivia Keville as Mae, Van Crosby as Mason and Sander Thomas as Milo.
Jeff Kleeman, Mette Heeno, Mie Andreasen and Hella Joof are also executive producers of “Splitting Up Together,” which is based on the original series created by Heeno. It is produced by A Very Good Production and Piece of Pie Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television. Dean Holland directed the pilot.
NEW ALTERNATIVE SERIES
“AMERICAN IDOL”
ABC is bringing back “American Idol.” The network, along with producers FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group, will revive television’s most successful and recognized music competition series for the 2017-2018 season, bringing back the fan-favorite and making more dreams come true. A host and judges will be announced at a later time.
“American Idol”‘s profound effect on the music industry is far-reaching and continually growing, launching the careers of superstars Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson, Katharine McPhee, Adam Lambert and Chris Daughtry, among many others. “American Idol” contestants have sold more than 60 million albums, resulting in more than 80 Platinum records and 95 Gold records. Its participants have generated more than 450 Billboard No. 1 hits and sold more than 260 million digital downloads.
“American Idol” is produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group. Executive producers include FremantleMedia North America’s Trish Kinane and Jennifer Mullin. FremantleMedia International distributes the series worldwide.
“THE BACHELOR WINTER GAMES”
America’s favorite participants from past seasons of “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette,” from arch rivals to villains, will take competitive dating to a chilling new level. In an ode to the Winter Olympic Games and slated to premiere in February 2018, “The Bachelor Winter Games” will reunite the all-stars at a luxurious winter resort, where they will go head-to-head in winter-themed athletic challenges, including the toughest sport of all—love.
“The Bachelor Winter Games” is a production of Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Unscripted Television. Mike Fleiss and Martin Hilton to executive produce.
“DANCING WITH THE STARS JUNIOR”
A fresh new take on an established favorite, “Dancing with the Stars Junior” will pair celebrity kids and kids of celebrities with professional junior ballroom dancers to perform choreographed routines, which will be judged by a panel of renowned ballroom experts, to be announced at a later date.
Slated to debut in Spring 2018, “Dancing with the Stars Junior” is produced by BBC Worldwide Productions.
NEW SPECIALS
“THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF DISNEY: THE LITTLE MERMAID LIVE!”
In a two-hour special event, ABC will take the iconic “The Little Mermaid” animated feature film and intertwine it with show stopping LIVE musical performances via cutting-edge technology for an explosive evening honoring one of Walt Disney’s most celebrated classics. Fans of “The Little Mermaid” and Alan Menken and Howard Ashman’s Oscar-winning songs will enjoy this never-before-seen live action/animation hybrid television experience featuring a soon-to-be announced roster of some of their favorite celebrity artists, whose performances will weave seamlessly throughout the original animated film.
“The Wonderful World of Disney: The Little Mermaid Live!” is set to premiere on Tuesday, October 3. The special is produced by Done + Dusted with Hamish Hamilton, Ian Stewart, David Jammy, Katy Mullan, and Richard Kraft, of Kraft-Engel Productions, serving as executive producers.
“ROLLING STONE 50”
For half a century, Rolling Stone has remained an iconic and important voice in American music, culture and politics. Now, the people who have told their stories through the Rolling Stone lens are coming together to reflect on the last 50 years. “Rolling Stone 50” will pay homage to the brand’s influence and impact through a curated journey of its most seminal moments. Live from New York City, the three-hour special television event, set to debut Wednesday, February 7, 2018, will showcase live performances, short films, iconic on-stage moments, never-before-seen musical pairings, and celebrities that have shaped pop culture, music and politics.
The special is a production of Done + Dusted and Wenner Media. Jann Wenner and Gus Wenner of Wenner Media and Ian Stewart, David Jammy and Katy Mullan of Done + Dusted serve as executive producers.
For a second consecutive year, late-night talk show favorite Jimmy Kimmel will return to host the Oscars telecast, and Michael De Luca and Jennifer Todd will produce, Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs announced today. The 90th Academy Awards will air live on the ABC Television Network and broadcast outlets worldwide on Oscar® Sunday, March 4, 2018.
“Jimmy, Mike and Jennifer are truly an Oscar Dream Team,” said Boone Isaacs. “Mike and Jennifer produced a beautiful show that was visually stunning. And Jimmy proved, from his opening monologue all the way through a finale we could never have imagined, that he is one our finest hosts in Oscar history.”
“Hosting the Oscars was a highlight of my career and I am grateful to Cheryl, Dawn and the Academy for asking me to return to work with two of my favorite people, Mike De Luca and Jennifer Todd,” said Kimmel. ”If you think we screwed up the ending this year, wait until you see what we have planned for the 90th anniversary show!”
“It’s not often you get two chances to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience and even more rare to be handed the keys to a party 90 years in the making,” said De Luca and Todd. ”We always thought the idea that anything can happen on the Oscars was a cliché until we lived it.”
“Our Oscars team this year delivered a show that hit every high note,” said Academy CEO Dawn Hudson. “Jimmy brought back the essence and light touch of the greatest hosts of Oscars’ past. Mike and Jennifer’s love of movies is infectious and touched every aspect of the show. This is the perfect team to lead us into the ninth decade.”
“After just one year, we can’t imagine anyone else hosting The Oscars. Jimmy’s skillful command of the stage is invaluable on a night when anything can happen—and does,” said Channing Dungey, president, ABC Entertainment. “With Mike and Jennifer at the helm, we’re ready for another unforgettable show that will dazzle, delight and, most importantly, honor 90 years of Hollywood’s most prestigious award.”
Kimmel serves as host and executive producer of the Emmy®-winning “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” ABC’s late-night talk show. Now in its 15th season, “JKL” has earned six Emmy nominations in the Outstanding Variety Series Talk category, the Writing for a Variety Series category, and the Variety, Music or Comedy Series category.
De Luca earned Best Picture Oscar nominations for producing “Captain Phillips,” “Moneyball” and “The Social Network.” He is credited on more than 60 films, including the “Fifty Shades of Grey” trilogy, “Blow,” “Magnolia,” “American History X” and “Boogie Nights.” He is a former president of production at Columbia Pictures, DreamWorks and New Line Cinema.
Todd is currently president of Pearl Street Films, the production company founded by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, where she produced “Live by Night” and executive produced last year’s “Jason Bourne.” Her other credits include such films as “Alice through the Looking Glass,” “Celeste and Jesse Forever,” “Alice in Wonderland,” “Across the Universe,” “Prime,” “Memento,” “Boiler Room” and the “Austin Powers” films. Todd earned an Emmy nomination for her work on the HBO television movie “If These Walls Could Talk 2.”
The 90th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 4, 2018, at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. EDT/4 p.m. PDT. The Oscars also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.
Jennifer Lopez performs at a private concert held exclusively for NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises advertising clients at Manhattan Center’s Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on May 16, 2016. (Photo by: Virginia Sherwood/Telemundo)
Every year in May, the major TV networks present their shows for the upcoming season to advertisers and other major clients at the Upfronts—when the networks announce which shows have been cancelled and which shows are new to the schedule. Sneak previews, “sizzle reels” and TV stars are presented on stage, and there are numerous after-parties. Here’s a summary of what to expect from the networks that will have presentations from May 15 to May 18, 2017, during the most high-profile Upfronts week this year.
May 15, 2017
NBCUniversal
NBCUniversal will have its upfront presentation for its broadcast and cable networks at Radio City Music Hall, 10:30 a.m. NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises will hold a private concert at Hammerstein Ballroom at 6:30 p.m. NBCUniversal’s private after-party will be at Del Posto at 9 p.m.
ABC will have its upfront presentation at Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall at 4 p.m.
Already renewed:
American Housewife
The Bachelor
Black-ish
Dancing With the Stars
Grey’s Anatomy
Designated Survivor
Fresh Off the Boat
The Goldbergs
How to Get Away With Murder
Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
The Middle
Modern Family
Once Upon a Time
Scandal
Shark Tank
Speechless
Could be renewed or cancelled:
America’s Funniest Home Videos
Beyond the Tank
Quantico
The Toy Box
Already cancelled:
American Crime
The Catch
Conviction
Dr. Ken
Imaginary Mary
Last Man Standing
Notorious
The Real O’Neals
Secrets and Lies
Time After Time
Also on May 16:
ESPN’s upfront presentation will take place at Minskoff Theatre at 9:15 a.m. In early May, ESPN fired numerous on-air employees, so the network’s shows will look very different for the 2017-2018 season.
Univision’s upfront Presentation will take place at the Lyric Theatre at 11.a.m.
May 17, 2017
CBS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tas6hMcLmHs
CBS will hold a Press Breakfast at CBS headquarters’ Studio 19 at 8:30 a.m. The network’s upfront presentation will be at Carnegie Hall at 4 p.m., followed by the after-party at the Plaza Hotel.
Already renewed:
The Amazing Race
The Big Bang Theory
Blue Bloods
Bull
Criminal Minds
Elementary
Hawaii Five-O
Kevin Can Wait
Life in Pieces
MacGyver
Madam Secretary
Man With a Plan
Mom
NCIS
NCIS: Los Angeles
NCIS: New Orleans
Scorpion
Superior Donuts
Survivor
Zoo
Could be renewed or cancelled:
Code Black
Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders
The Great Indoors
Hunted
The Odd Couple
Undercover Boss
Already cancelled:
2 Broke Girls
Doubt
Pure Genius
Ransom
Training Day
Also on May 17:
Turner—which includes TNT, TBS, truTV, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, CNN, HLN, CNN International TCM, Boomerang and Turner Sports—will have its upfront presentation at the Theater at Madison Square Garden at 10:15 a.m. Adult Swim will have a party headlined by Drake at Terminal 5 at 9 p.m., while truTV will have a party at Stage 48 at 11:30 p.m.
May 18, 2017
The CW
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFUQX3SSCgg
The CW will have its upfront presentation at New York City Center at 11 a.m., while the network’s party will be held at a private location at 7 p.m.
ABC is reviving “American Idol,” which will return in the 2017-2018 season, according to an announcement made by the network. A press release states that ABC has “closed an agreement with producers FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group … A host and judges will be announced at a later time.”
The original incarnation of the singing contest “American Idol” was televised on Fox from 2002 to 2016. During 2003 to 2006, “American Idol” was the highest-rated TV show in the United States, garnering an average of 27 million viewers per episode when the show was at its peak. “American Idol” was responsible for making several of its participants world-famous, including original judge Simon Cowell, host Ryan Seacrest and former “American Idol” winners Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. Other former “Idol” contestants who went on to great success include Jennifer Hudson, Adam Lambert, Jordin Sparks, Chris Daughtry and Fantasia Barrino. Fox ended the show due to declining ratings and high production costs.
During “American Idol’s” original run, ABC tried and failed several times to have its own hit music-based talent contest by offering forgettable flops such as “Rising Star” (2014), “Duets” (2012) and “The Next Great American Band” (2007). Fox also attempted to duplicate the success of “Idol” with the U.S. version of “The X Factor,” which lasted from 2011 to 2013 before it was cancelled because of disappointing ratings.
In 2011, the singing contest “The Voice” premiered on NBC, and became an immediate hit with viewers and critics. While “Idol” faltered and “The X Factor” faded away, “The Voice” became the highest-rated singing talent contest in the United States, although “The Voice” could never have the blockbuster ratings that “American Idol” had in its heyday. There were some reports that NBC was in talks to bring “American Idol” to the network, but in the end, it looks like NBC didn’t want to make the same mistake that Fox did with “The X Factor,” by having two major singing contests on the same network.
The original stars of “American Idol,” pictured clockwise from left: judge Simon Cowell, host Ryan Seacrest, judge Randy Jackson and judge Paula Abdul, (Photo courtesy of Fox)
Seacrest has publicly stated that he wants to host “American Idol” again. He recently signed on to host the New York-based “Live” daytime weekday talk show with Kelly Ripa, so it’s unknown how he could work Los Angeles-based “American Idol” into his schedule. “Live” is distributed by ABC, and Seacrest has a long relationship with ABC; he also hosts ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.”
Cowell is unlikely to return to “Idol” since he’s under contract to be a judge and executive producer on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.” Other past “American Idol judges include Paula Adbul, Randy Jackson, Kara DioGuardi, Ellen DeGeneres, Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr.
“The Voice” has invested in getting major current hitmakers to sit on the judges’ panel, including Adam Levine (lead singer of Maroon 5), Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani, Pharrell Williams, Christina Aguilera, Shakira, Alicia Keys, Miley Cyrus and Cee-Lo Green. The right group of judges who are still relevant in the music industry has been the key to the success of “The Voice,” which has won multiple Emmys, so it will be interesting to see if the new “American Idol” will copy that same strategy.
“The Voice” has a winning formula so far, and it is unlikely to change that formula because “American Idol” is being revived. What will likely change are some familiar aspects of “American Idol” in order to distinguish it from the Fox version of the show. It remains to be seen if ABC’s “American Idol” will surpass the ratings of “Dancing With the Stars,” which is currently ABC’s highest-rated reality show.
May 16, 2017 UPDATE:
Katy Perry at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on February 12, 2017. (Photo by Phil McCarten/CBS)
ABC has officially announced that Katy Perry will be a judge on the rebooted “American Idol.” Perry issued this statement: “I am honored and thrilled to be the first judge bringing back the ‘American Idol’ tradition of making dreams come true for incredible talents with authentic personalities and real stories. I’m always listening to new music, and love discovering diamonds in the rough – from mentoring young artists on my label, or highlighting new artists on my tours, I want to bring it back to the music.”
As expected, ABC has announced that Ryan Seacrest will return to host “American Idol.”
Here is the press release:
A household name from his decades on radio and television as an award-winning host and producer, Ryan Seacrest is confirmed to host the beloved music competition series “American Idol” for its first season on ABC. Kelly Ripa announced it today on “Live with Kelly and Ryan.” Seacrest had a long run with “Idol,” having served as host for the franchise since its inception in 2002.
Since first stepping onto the iconic “Idol” stage, Seacrest has become a fixture in pop culture and media, most recently signing on as co-host and an executive producer of Disney|ABC’s top-rated, nationally syndicated “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” which he will continue to host from New York. Seacrest also hosts and executive produces ABC’s annual live show, “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
Seacrest will also continue hosting and executive producing “On Air with Ryan Seacrest,” his market-topping No. 1 nationally syndicated L.A. morning drive-time radio show for iHeartMedia’s 102.7 KIIS-FM, as well as a nationally syndicated Top 40 radio show from his iHeart studio at New York’s ABC7, home of “Live.”Now, with “American Idol” at its new home, Seacrest will help reinvigorate the series that pioneered a new genre of television, staying true to the heart of the show by sharing inspiring stories and turning dreams into reality.
“It’s genuinely hard to put into words what ‘American Idol’ means to me,” said Seacrest. “I’m so grateful for the show and all the career and life opportunities it’s allowed me to experience. It’s been an incredible journey from day one. To be asked to return this year, at my new home at Disney|ABC, is an honor, if not a bit surreal. I believe ABC is the perfect home for ‘Idol,’ and I’ve every confidence the show’s legions of fans will love it – especially ‘Idol’’s best traditions of showcasing heartwarming stories, remarkable talent discovery, and, best of all, making dreams come true.”
“We are thrilled to be ushering in this new era of ‘American Idol’ with Ryan at the helm,” said Channing Dungey, president, ABC Entertainment. “So much of ‘American Idol’’s overwhelming success can be attributed to Ryan, whose larger-than-life personality and laudable dedication to creating quality entertainment has made him a true master of his craft. His talent is limitless, and I can’t think of a more appropriate person to honor the ‘Idol’ legacy as it takes on new life than the man who has been there through it all.”
Trish Kinane, president of Entertainment Programming, FremantleMedia North America, executive producer and showrunner of American Idol, said, “American Idol is back and already on the road searching to find the next generation of superstars. Idol has always been about the contestants and the music, and we couldn’t be more excited to start this next chapter – first with the incredibly talented new judge, Katy Perry, and now our own series icon, Ryan Seacrest. We’re delighted that he’s joining us and ABC as we set out to uncover the amazing talent America has to offer.”
“‘Idol’ wouldn’t be ‘Idol’ without Ryan,” said Core Media Group CEO Peter Hurwitz. “He is a natural who has been there from the start, shines on live television and has dominated in every one of his professional endeavors. The show’s millions of devoted fans will be delighted to welcome him back to center stage on ABC.”
The nationwide search for the next superstar kicks off on Thursday, August 17, as the Idol Bus tour jumps into gear across America, offering hopefuls the chance to audition for a shot at superstardom. Please visit www.americanidol.com for more details on specific audition locations, full eligibility requirements, submission forms, terms and conditions.
“American Idol” is produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment, a division of CORE Media Group. Executive producers include FremantleMedia North America’s Trish Kinane and Jennifer Mullin along with co-executive producer, Megan Wolflick. FremantleMedia International distributes the series worldwide.
Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest, co-hosts of “Live with Kelly and Ryan.”(Photo by Pawel Kaminski/Disney/ABC Home Entertainment and TV Distribution)
Ryan Seacrest has joined “Live” to co-host the talk show with Kelly Ripa. He replaces Michael Strahan, who exited the show in 2016 to co-host ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
The following is a press release from Disney/ABC Home Entertainment and TV Distribution:
A new era in daytime television began today when Kelly Ripa introduced the permanent co-host joining her on the top-rated, Emmy-winning “Live” franchise: veteran broadcaster Ryan Seacrest is the new co-host of the newly-rechristened “Live with Kelly and Ryan.”
Beginning with today’s inaugural broadcast, Seacrest joins Daytime Emmy Award-winner Ripa as co-host and a fellow executive producer on daytime’s longest-running, #1 entertainment talk show. A staple of modern American pop culture and media, and a household name from his decades on the radio, on television and as an Emmy-winning producer, Seacrest also has been a longtime friend of “Live,” with many guest appearances and multiple co-hosting stints.
“Ryan is a quintessential broadcaster and at the top of his game,” said Ripa. “I am thrilled to start my mornings with him every day, and we are so fortunate at ‘Live’ to have him join the family.” She added, “Ryan is a close friend and his star shines as brightly off camera as it does on. His tremendous success is only matched by his impeccable reputation. Plainly said, everyone loves him, and so will our daily viewers.”
“Not only is Kelly Ripa one of the most talented live hosts in broadcast TV; she’s also become a very dear friend to me over the years. It’s consistently been my privilege and pleasure to work alongside Kelly with all her incredible talents, charm and humor – whether hosting the Disney Christmas Day Parade special with her a decade ago or guest co-hosting alongside her on ‘Live,’ it’s always just been easy and fun to share a set with her, and we have a blast,” said Seacrest. “I’ve been so fortunate in my career to be a part of some incredible TV programs, and I’m excited to join daytime’s top entertainment talk show, and most important, I couldn’t think of anyone I’d rather share this new chapter with than Kelly Ripa – she’s a dream broadcast partner, and I can’t wait to start.”
He added: “I also want to genuinely thank Bob Iger, Ben Sherwood, Rebecca Campbell, Dave Davis, Janice Marinelli, and of course Michael Gelman, who all have been incredibly supportive in making this new chapter happen for me.”
Seacrest will make the move to New York immediately to begin his co-hosting duties, and will continue hosting and executive producing “On Air with Ryan Seacrest,” his market-topping #1 nationally syndicated LA morning drive-time radio show for iHeartMedia’s 102.7 KIIS-FM, as well as a nationally-syndicated Top 40 radio show. New York’s ABC7, home of “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” will house a brand-new iHeartRadio studio for Seacrest’s New York City location.
Seacrest will also continue as host and executive producer of two large live franchises, E!’s Live from the Red Carpet award shows, as well as ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
“With Ryan, ‘Live’ has a new co-host who is a master of live TV, as well as a terrific interviewer with tens of thousands of hours of live broadcasting experience,” said Michael Gelman, Executive Producer, “Live.” “When you combine those attributes with the talents and experience of the incomparable Kelly Ripa, you have two skilled and entertaining broadcasters, with great chemistry. Add in an experienced production team and a successful 30-year franchise and you have the perfect combination.”
“One of the secrets to ‘Live’s’ decades of success in daytime is the relatability of our hosts and their ability to deeply connect with the audience. Ryan has a charm and charisma that resonate with his devoted TV and radio audiences, and together, he and the remarkable Kelly Ripa will take ‘Live’ to a whole new level. We’re delighted to introduce this extraordinary new team of Kelly and Ryan to our family of ‘Live’ station partners and millions of viewers,” said Janice Marinelli, President, Disney/ABC Home Entertainment and TV Distribution.
“For four decades, WABC has been the proud home of ‘Live.’ With this announcement, the show begins another amazing era, and we couldn’t be more excited to have a true broadcaster like Ryan Seacrest join the legendary Kelly Ripa as co-host. Our viewers are in for a real treat,” said Rebecca Campbell, President, ABC Owned Stations & ABC Daytime.
“Live with Kelly and Ryan” is distributed in national syndication by Disney|ABC Home Entertainment and TV Distribution. The show is produced by WABC-TV in New York and executive produced by Michael Gelman, Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest. Visit “Live” on Facebook and Instagram (@LiveKellyandRyan), and Twitter and SnapChat (@LiveKellyRyan).
