Tag: fan events

2018 BET Experience: Fan Fest lineup of performers, celebrity appearances announced

May 1, 2018

BET Experience

The following is a press release from BET:

BET NETWORKS and AEG announced the highly anticipated free BET Fan Fest lineup as part of the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® June 21 – 24, 2018. The annual festival will include the return of Genius Talks, Acoustically Speaking, BETX Celebrity Basketball Game, BETX Main Stage, Coca-Cola® Music Studio, BETX House of Fashion and Beauty, BETX Live and the Kicksperience, along with a newly added activation, Celebrity Dodgeball.

FRIDAY, JUNE 22 AND SATURDAY, JUNE 23

BETX MAIN STAGE

Performers include Leikeli47, Tee Grizzley, Duckwrth, Jessie Reyez, YBN Nahmir, Molly Brazy, Lil Skies, Lil Baby, Derez Deshon, Bryant Myers, A. CHAL, M. Mereba and other special guests.

COCA-COLA® MUSIC STUDIO

The Coca-Cola Music Studio will debut some of today’s newly discovered R&B and hip-hop acts including DaniLeigh, DJ Mal-Ski, Lauren Sanderson, Trinidad Cardona, Domani Harris,LouGotCash and Peso Da Mafia.

FRIDAY, JUNE 22

ACOUSTICALLY SPEAKING

Jussie Smollett (Photo by Chris Fragapane/FOX)

Acoustically Speaking sponsored by M&M features special musical guests who share their insight on the scope of the music industry from their unique perspectives. Exclusive performances cap the candid conversations. Jussie Smollett, Lecrae and Gallant will each grace the stage for intimate Acoustically Speaking performances, hosted by Big Tigger.

BETX CELEBRITY DODGEBALL GAME

This year, four teams of celebrity challengers will face off in the all-new Celebrity Dodgeball Game taking place on Friday, June 22 at 8:30 p.m. PST. Christian Crosby and Gia Peppersprovide the play-by-play commentary alongside DJ Brittany Sky. Participants include members of the “Love and Hip Hop” casts: Ray J., Safaree, Stevie J., Yung Joc, K. Michelle, Nikki Mudarris, Rasheeda, Momma Dee,Karlie Redd; Nick Cannon and surprise guests from “Wild N Out”as well as the hit boy band, PRETTYMUCH.

SATURDAY, JUNE 23

GENIUS TALKS

Yara Shahidi (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for Turner Image)

The always inspirational Genius Talks sponsored by AT&T returns with prominent personalities across various industries joining fans for uplifting conversation and gems of guidance based on their experiences. Past guests have included illustrious stars such as Snoop Dogg, DJ Khaled, Floyd “Money” Mayweather, Kobe Bryant, Tracee Ellis Ross and Ava DuVernay. This year, Yara Shahidi, Tip “T.I” Harris and Yvonne Orji join the series alongside moderator, Jemele Hill,to share their knowledge and keys to success with fans.  All Genius Talks will be streamed live at BETExperience.com/live.

BETX CELEBRITY BASKETBALL GAME

Two star-studded teams will go head-to-head for bragging rights at the BETX Celebrity Basketball Game sponsored by Sprite®. This year’s celebrity line-up will include Nick Cannon, Caleb McLaughlin, Miles Brown, Nipsey Hussle, Tank, Rapsody, Rich Homie Quan, Lil Rel, Trevor Jackson, Casanova, Lecrae, Rotimi, Lil Dicky, Kap G, Erica Ash, Christian Keyes, Travis Greene and Bambi. Additionally, members of the Compton Sounders Drummers, Syncopated Ladies and World of Dance willjoin the lineup.NBA veteran, Doug Christie; professional dunker, Chris Staples andstreetball star, Larry “Bone Collector” Williams round off the all-star teams. Fat Joe and Big Boy join this year’s matchup as team coaches, alongside guest commentators Jemele Hill, Big Tigger, Gia Peppers and Christian Crosby. The BETX Celebrity Basketball teams tip off at 12:00 p.m. PST on Saturday, June 23, 2018 and will be streamed live at BETExperience.com/live.  Tickets for the Celebrity Basketball Game sponsored by Sprite® are now available for purchase at http://www.axs.com/betexperience.

As previously announced, BET Networks will make its return to Los Angeles for the four-day music and entertainment festival, the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola®, June 21 – 24, 2018. Teaming up with AEG, one of the world’s leading entertainment companies and developer/operator of L.A. LIVE and the STAPLES Center, the star-studded concert series will span across three nights, capped by the 2018 BET Awards on June 24.  The BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® will feature some of today’s hottest artists including Chris Brown, SZA, Rae Sremmurd, Ferg, Nipsey Hussle, Playboi Carti, LL Cool J ft. DJ Z-Trip, Nas, Ludacris, Ne-Yo, Kamaiyah, Ella Mai and Wondagurl.

HOW TO ATTEND:

The BET Fan Fest wristbands return to the fan experience this year. All attendees will be required to wear their wristband upon arrival in order to enter the free BET Fan Fest. Beginning May 1, attendees will be able to register for the BET Fan Fest wristbands by downloading the BETX ’18 app or going to www.betexperience.com. The BET Fan Fest wristband grants attendees access to some of the hottest events happening during the BET Experience weekend; including the BETX Main Stage music performances, Acoustically Speaking sponsored by M&M, Genius Talks sponsored by AT&T, Celebrity Dodgeball Game, BETX Live Shows, BETX House of Fashion & Beauty, Coca-Cola® Music Studio, Kicksperience and year two of the BET Casting Call.  Additionally, tickets to the BETX Celebrity Basketball game will be available for purchase starting today.

VIP Packages for the 6th year of the BET Experience weekend are better than ever and now on-sale. In addition to VIP amenities throughout the weekend and incredible seats for STAPLES Center shows, all levels of BETX VIP Packages offer guests the only opportunity to purchase tickets to the highly-anticipated BET Awards, broadcast live from Microsoft Theater. Full package amenities and pricing for the Diamond, Platinum, Gold Plus and Gold VIP Packages can be found by visiting BETExperience.com or by calling (877) 234-8425.

General tickets for the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola® are on sale now at http://www.axs.com/betexperience.

Download the BETX ’18 App powered by AT&T, your personal pocket guide to all things #BETX. Get real-time event updates, complete schedules, BET Fan Fest wristbands, daily prizes, ticket giveaways, maps, access to live streams & much more. Available on iOS & Android.  Download at BETExperience.com/app.

Follow BET Experience on all social media @betexperience for the latest news and be sure to join the conversation by using #BETX.

ABOUT BET NETWORKS

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B sted NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel is in nearly 85 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER (formerly CENTRIC), a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American woman; BET Music Networks – BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET Networks around the globe.

BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA®

BET Networks, an entertainment powerhouse, and AEG, the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company and developer/operator of L.A. LIVE, have teamed up once again to create the BET EXPERIENCE AT L.A. LIVE (BETX), June 21 – 24, 2018 presented by Coca-Cola®. This four-day festival will be filled with music concerts taking place at The Novo by Microsoft and STAPLES Center; the BET Fan Fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center including seminars, celebrity basketball games, celebrity meet & greets; and other special interactive events. The weekend will be capped off with the “BET Awards” on Sunday, June 24, 2018 at Microsoft Theater.

 

ABOUT AEG

Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world’s leading sports and live entertainment company. With offices on five continents, AEG operates in the following business segments: AEG Facilities, which is affiliated with or owns, manages or consults with more than 120 preeminent arenas, stadiums, theaters, clubs and convention centers around the world including The O2 Arena, the Sprint Center and the Mercedes-Benz Arenas; AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and world-renowned festivals; AEG Real Estate, which develops world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE; AEG Sports, which is the world’s largest operator of sports franchises and high-profile sporting events; and AEG Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 100 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at www.aegworldwide.com.

2018 CrimeCon: panels and speakers announced

April 30, 2018

by Carla Hay

The second annual CrimeCon for fans of true-crime stories is set to take place at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville from May 4 to May 6, 2018.

The guest speakers include:

  • Nancy Grace: Oxygen host; founder of Crime Online; former prosecutor; author; former HLN and Court TV host
  • Erin Moriarty: correspondent for “48 Hours”
  • Kelly Siegler: former prosecutor; host of “Cold Justice”
  • Josh Mankiewicz: correspondent for “Dateline NBC”
  • Keith Morrison: correspondent for “Dateline NBC”
  • Andrea Canning: correspondent for “Dateline NBC”
  • Dennis Murphy: correspondent for “Dateline NBC”
  • Beth Karas: attorney; former Court TV correspondent
  • Jim Clemente: former prosecutor; former FBI profiler; podcaster; TV host; “Criminal Minds” writer/producer
  • Dr. Laura Pettler: forensic criminologist
  • Darren Kavinoky: defense attorney; former Investigation Discovery host
  • Ryan Ferguson: author; former prison inmate who was wrongfully convicted of murder
  • Juan Martinez: prosecutor; author
  • Dianne Lake: author; former member of the Manson Family
  • Callahan Walsh: child advocate at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children; former supervising producer at “America’s Most Wanted”

Several of the guest speakers will be doing meet-and-greet sessions with CrimeCon attendees.

True-crime network Oxygen (which is owned by NBCUniversal) has signed as the event’s presenting sponsor, which explains the prominent presence of Oxygen stars Grace and Siegler, as well as several correspondents from NBCUniversal’s “Dateline NBC.” There will also be a screening of the Oxygen special “Unspeakable Crime: The Killing of Jessica Chambers.”

In addition to panels about famous crime cases (such as the Golden State Killer, Jodi Arias, the West Memphis Three, Israel Keyes, Sister Cathy Cesnick, Maura Murray), CrimeCon will be a highly interactive event, with a private-investigator experience with attendee participation, a screening of an episode from WGN America’s drama series “Pure,” about a Mennonite pastor who goes undercover in the drug trade; and Oxygen’s augmented-reality experience “Forensic Detective: Inside the Crime Scene.”

Click here for a complete schedule of events.

CrimeCon, produced by Red Seat Ventures, is a rival to IDCon, an annual one-day convention in New York City for fans of Investigation Discovery (ID), the true-crime network that debuted in 2008 from Discovery Networks.

Here are the main difference between the two events:

  • CrimeCon takes place over three days and has programming from various media outlets, whereas IDCon is one day only and focuses only on programming from one network: Investigation Discovery.
  • CrimeCon takes place in a different city every year, while IDCon is in New York City.
  • The cost of CrimeCon is much higher per day and is a much larger event. CrimeCon’s 2018 admission prices range from $229-$1,199, not including the cost of on-site meals. IDCon has one admission price, which includes on-site lunch. IDCon’s admission price for 2018 was $50. IDCon has about 300 attendees. CrimeCon has not yet released its attendance figures.

2018 IDCon: talent lineup and ticket information announced

April 6, 2018

by Carla Hay

Tony Harris at IDCon at the Altman Building in New York City on May 20, 2017
Tony Harris at IDCon at the Altman Building in New York City on May 20, 2017 (Photo courtesy of Investigation Discovery)

Investigation Discovery (ID) has announced that its third annual IDCon, an event for ID fans, will take place May 19, 2018, at the Altman Building in New York City. The theme of the event is “Cold Case Confidential.” Tickets, which are $50 each, are now sale at EventBrite. According to ID, all proceeds for IDCon will be donated to New York’s Silver Shield Foundation, an organization which provides educational support to families of firefighters and police officers killed in the line of duty.

ID’s “Scene of the Crime” host Tony Harris will emcee the event for the second year in a row. ID show hosts Joe Kenda (“Homicide Hunter”) and Candice DeLong (“Deadly Women”) will also be in attendance for panel discussions meet-and-greet opportunities. More talent appearances are expected to be announced.

In a statement, Investigation Discovery, American Heroes Channel and Destination America group president Henry Schleiff commented: “IDCon is our annual gift to our self-proclaimed ID Addicts, those superfans who have helped ID become the #1 network for women, and we’re excited to return to last year’s ‘scene of the crime’ to another sold-out crowd with thousands on the waitlist!”

The event, which is expected to sell out quickly to the approximate maximum of 300 people, will once again feature panel discussions, immersive experiences and meet-and-greet opportunities with ID stars.

David Duchovny speaks his truth about the latest chapter of ‘The X-Files’ revival

January 2, 2018

by Carla Hay

David Duchovny at 2017 New York Comic Con in New York City
David Duchovny at 2017 New York Comic Con in New York City (Photo by Carla Hay)

The next mind-bending chapter of “The X-Files” is a thrilling, 10-episode event series from creator/executive producer Chris Carter, with stars David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson re-inhabiting their roles as iconic FBI Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully. Mitch Pileggi also returns as FBI assistant director Walter Skinner, Mulder and Scully’s boss, who walks a fine line between loyalty to these investigators and accountability to his superiors.

This marks the momentous return of the Emmy-winning pop-culture phenomenon, which remains one of the longest-running sci-fi series in network television history. In the U.S., “The X-Files” revival (the show’s 11th season) premieres on Fox on January 3, 2018. The upcoming event series will encompass a mixture of stand-alone episodes and those that further the original show’s seminal mythology. Picking up after the last event series’ cliffhanger, Mulder and Scully learn that they aren’t the only ones desperately searching for their long-lost son, William. The very fate of the world may depend on it.

“The X-Files” originally premiered in September 1993. Over the course of its original nine-season run, the influential series went from breakout sci-fi favorite to massive global hit, and became one of the most successful television dramas of all time. The show—which earned 16 Emmy Awards, five Golden Globes and a Peabody Award—follows FBI special agents Scully and Mulder as they investigate unexplained cases—“X-Files —for which the only answers involve paranormal phenomena. The show was revived for a 10th season, which aired in 2016. The all-new episodes for 2018 will feature appearances by guest stars, including Joel McHale, Lauren Ambrose, Haley Joel Osment and Robbie Amell. This what Duchovny said in a roundtable interview that he did with me and other journalists at 2017 New York Comic Con.

What can you say about the relationship between Mulder and Scully in this new season of “The X-Files”?

I don’t know what I’m allowed to tell. It’s as it was. Chris [Carter] was smart from the very beginning. When you have a serialized television show that’s had well over 200 episodes, you’ve got to parcel the goodness little by little. As much as fans think they want this or that, once you cross the line, it’s hard to go back over to the other side.

I think what’s interesting about the relationship is their working partnership. They’re quite reliant on one another. They [the viewers] may want a sex scene, but they really don’t, especially at the age we are at right now.

Does all this fan expectation of a Mulder/Scully romance inform how you play your role?

Absolutely not. I don’t mean to be disrespectful to the fans, but that’s not the way I approach my job. If I was to write [an “X-Files” episode], I might think of the relationship. In fact, the ones that I’ve written, I’m kind of comfortable loosening them up outside of the work. But as an actor, if I start thinking about that kind of crap, then I’m lost. When you see your [significant other], do you think, “How is this being perceived by others?”

As an actor, you’re constantly guarding against any kind of self-consciousness. That’s the death of acting: somebody watching themselves. If you start thinking about people watching you, it’s a back door to your own self-consciousness. [He says jokingly] I have to forget this conversation by the time I get back on set.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from Chris Carter that’s helped you understand the Mulder character over the years?

I don’t know. I’m kind of headstrong about it. At some point, I do the lines as they’re written. But at some point, I decided I knew who this guy was, and this was my character. I was playing it, and I owned it. And that could to be to the detriment of my work. I don’t know.

In retrospect, the characters I’m attracted to playing seem to be people who speak the truth, no matter what the consequences. The first time I did that was probably with Mulder. So I think that I learned something about what I’m drawn to as a performer.

To me, that was the inherent basis of the character: He was a guy who didn’t mind being a fool. I could trace that back to Chris, for sure.

What can you share about Season 11 of “The X-Files”?

The last time we did [a season of “The X-Files”] it was six episodes, and the last time we did an “X-Files” movie was in 2008. We had a lot of exposition to cover. That took two episodes. And then in the end, we had to wrap it up. That took an episode. So that left us with three episodes, which is not enough.

So now, we have 10 episodes. We do have some [things] that get us out of the mess we got ourselves into at the end [of Season 10, but that’s dispensed with rather quickly, so that we can do the show we always did, which was less self-consciously about the show itself, which is unfortunately what those episodes tend to be.

Even if they’re interesting mythology, they’re about the show. It was tough getting everyone on the same page in the same city. This time around [the season’s film took] four months. It’s tough, but we pulled it off, and here we are.

How do you think Mulder has evolved over the years?

I don’t know. He might be a little “anti-scientist.” He might be a little bit like a guy who says, “Fake news,” which is unsettling to me. I think it’s interesting to think about the show in this political climate.

In terms of how a character has evolved over the years, it’s an interesting question for an actor to approach. I did it slightly with “Twin Peaks.”

If you could give any advice to Mulder from the first season of “The X-Files,” what would it be?

“Wear comfortable shoes. It’s hard to run in dress shoes.” Maybe Mulder has changed. There’s a certain kind of fearlessness to the guy. We have more than 200 episodes that we’ve done, and he’s solved zero cases, so he’s the worst FBI agent of all time. If he was on “Law & Order,” there’d be no order.

I feel like his resilience is great. I feel like he can believe what he believes, even though he’s never gotten the truth. It’s kind of phenomenal, when you think about it.

Gillian Anderson reveals how changes have affected ‘The X-Files’

January 2, 2018

by Carla Hay

Gillian Anderson
Gillian Anderson at 2017 New York Comic Con in New York City (Photo by Carla Hay)

 

The next mind-bending chapter of “The X-Files” is a thrilling, 10-episode event series from creator/executive producer Chris Carter, with stars David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson re-inhabiting their roles as iconic FBI Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully. Mitch Pileggi also returns as FBI assistant director Walter Skinner, Mulder and Scully’s boss, who walks a fine line between loyalty to these investigators and accountability to his superiors.

This marks the momentous return of the Emmy-winning pop-culture phenomenon, which remains one of the longest-running sci-fi series in network television history. In the U.S., “The X-Files” revival (the show’s 11th season) premieres on Fox on January 3, 2018. The upcoming event series will encompass a mixture of stand-alone episodes and those that further the original show’s seminal mythology. Picking up after the last event series’ cliffhanger, Mulder and Scully learn that they aren’t the only ones desperately searching for their long-lost son, William. The very fate of the world may depend on it.

“The X-Files” originally premiered in September 1993. Over the course of its original nine-season run, the influential series went from breakout sci-fi favorite to massive global hit, and became one of the most successful television dramas of all time. The show—which earned 16 Emmy Awards, five Golden Globes and a Peabody Award—follows FBI special agents Scully and Mulder as they investigate unexplained cases—“X-Files”—for which the only answers involve paranormal phenomena. The show was revived for a 10th season, which aired in 2016. The all-new episodes for 2018 will feature appearances by guest stars, including Joel McHale, Lauren Ambrose, Haley Joel Osment and Robbie Amell. This what Anderson said in a roundtable interview that he did with me and other journalists at 2017 New York Comic Con.

Scully has changed so much since the first season of “The X-Files.” If you could give Scully from that season any advice, what would it be?

“Relax! Nothing is that important to get your knickers in a twist about.”

Do you feel Scully has lightened up?

I think she’s more relaxed than she used to be, potentially. I think it’s something that happens with age, in general. I think maybe because they were off the X-Files for a whole, and she got some time off, she’s just relaxed her grip on things.

How is any humor in “The X-Files” different this time around?

Whenever you have a [screenwriter] Darin Morgan episode, there’s a pretty sharp left turn that happens. We’ve definitely got one of those, and it’s funny. I don’t think the humor is different. I think it fits in the realm of what’s expected of us and what we’ve always done. I don’t think it would get as far as the shooting script if it was completely uncharacteristic.

When is the Season 10 cliffhanger addressed in Season 11?

It’s approached immediately. The human race still exists. Mulder and Scully are still alive and still working on the X-Files. I’m still a mortal. How we get there is the question mark I can’t answer.

William reportedly plays a big role in Season 11. Can you talk about that?

I’m very excited. It was nice to meet our son. He does show up. It’s nice to have a face to the child that we always talk about.

You’ve publicly said that you want female writers and directors involved in “The X-Files”? How do you think female writers and directors will affect how the stories are told?

The fact is that Scully was created by a man, and I would say that Chris [Carter] did right by women in creating Scully. I haven’t read one of the [female-written] scripts yet, so I don’t know how that will translate, in terms of Scully, but I am interested in other voices pitching in for the storyline.

How has today’s political climate and the proliferation of “fake news” conspiracy theories affected “The X-Files”?

I don’t know if it has. It’s hard to parody a parody. There’s not much we can do that hasn’t’ already been done. All bets are off. On the one hand, it’s exciting. On the other hand, it’s tedious.

An interesting challenge for the writers is to create something that is poignant and has something to say that doesn’t have to be derivative. It’s a challenge more for them than for me.

In the past, you’ve said there were times that you didn’t enjoy working on “The X-Files.” How do you feel about working on “The X-Files” now?

I think before, we were trying to do 24 episodes in a year. And for a show that’s predominantly led by two characters, that’s pretty intense. I certainly couldn’t do that today. This is nothing compared to that.

There have been a couple of production [crew member] deaths recently, and I think production is much more mindful of the hours that are being worked on by the crew, and that has an impact on everything and everyone, especially when you travel a lot and are on location. It feels like a kinder, gentler version of what we used to do. That in and of itself makes it more manageable. I think we’re appreciative and having fun and enjoying each other and not taking it too seriously, but hopefully taking it seriously enough that we’re doing good work. And hopefully, the fans will feel rewarded.

Is there an aspect of Scully’s personality that you really enjoy playing?

There is, but I don’t know exactly what to call it. It’s the “eyeroll” element of her.

Is there any element of Scully’s personality that you’ve discovered that isn’t written in the “X-Files” scripts?

I think one of the things that has been interesting to figure out is how a person ages. It’s one thing to do that in a condensed scenario, where you play a character in a biopic, and you go through hair and makeup, and you’re 20 years older.

But it feels different somehow … because I don’t look a lot like I did back then. My facial features are quite different. My face is much narrower, and obviously I’ve aged. So figuring out what elements of her personality are appropriate in a mature woman, it’s been an interesting question to answer.

2018 ACE Comic Con Arizona: ‘Captain America’ and ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ stars confirmed to attend

October 5, 2017

"Captain America" star Chris Evans and "Spider-Man: Homecoming" star Tom Holland
“Captain America” star Chris Evans and “Spider-Man: Homecoming” star Tom Holland (Image courtesy of ACE Universe)

The following is a press release from ACE Universe:

Chris Evans, star of the worldwide hit “Captain America” movie franchise, and Tom Holland, who portrays Spider-Man in the Marvel hits “Spider-Man: Homecoming” and “Captain America: Civil War” are headlining the new ACE Comic Con Arizona at Gila River Arena, Jan. 13-15, 2018.

ACE Comic Con Arizona is a division of ACE Universe, a newly launched experiential events company created by brothers Gareb and Stephen Shamus.  With 20 years of experience and 175 Comic Con shows under their belts, the brothers are creating a new immersive experience that looks to redefine the industry and break the mold of the linear Comic Con business.

Along with Evans and Holland, other confirmed guests include Sebastian Stan (The Winter Soldier – “Captain America”), Anthony Mackie (The Falcon – “Captain America”), Hayley Atwell (Agent Peggy Carter – “Captain America”), Laura Harrier (Liz – “Spider-Man: Homecoming”), and Jacob Batalon (Ned – “Spider-Man: Homecoming”).  More guests will be announced soon, including superstars from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).

VIP Admissions, Photo Ops and Autographs are on sale now at www.aceuniverse.com.  General Admission Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com) starting at 10 a.m. PST on Tuesday, Oct. 10. Additional ticketing information also can be found at www.aceuniverse.com.

“When we first went to Gila River Arena, we knew we had found the right home for our next big event,” said Gareb Shamus, ACE Universe Chairman and CEO.  “We believe the fans will fall in love with this new style of Comic Con and we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy everything the weekend will have to offer, which includes the opportunity to watch all of the can’t-miss programming on the arena Jumbotron.”  ACE Universe has secured an exclusive Marvel Comic variant cover to Captain America #495, drawn by Good Charlotte lead guitarist and illustrator Billy Martin.  This book is exclusive to box office buyers and VIPs.  Martin will be on hand all three days to sign the books, which feature Captain America and Spider-Man, in an homage piece of art to the great Todd McFarlane. 

ACE Universe also has partnerships across key sectors including technology, media, entertainment, gaming, publishers, manufacturers, licensors and retailers to help create a robust experience for fans.

Additionally, ACE Universe will be the first to provide FREE global live streaming to fans with wall-to-wall coverage of the entire Comic Con.  Now, all fans can enjoy access to top-tier talent, breaking news and on-site programming as every aspect of the show will be fully streamed, social media friendly, and available on mobile devices.

“Chris Evans, Tom Holland and the casts of both films are global box office stars that provide fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet and greet with their favorite super heroes,” said Stephen Shamus, President of ACE Universe.  “When you listen to the fans, these are the stars that are most requested, so securing the main cast members from both Marvel franchises makes this a can’t miss weekend.  We also haven’t forgotten the WWE fans, some of the most excitable fans in the world.”

ACE Comic Con Arizona is the second of the new ACE Comic Cons, with the debut event set to take place at NYCB Live:  Home of the Veterans Memorial Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, NY, Dec. 8-10.  In addition to these two shows, ACE Universe will announce more 2018 dates, cities and ticket information at www.aceuniverse.com and on the ACE Comic Con social channels at Facebook.com/acecomicon or @acecomiccon on Instagram and Twitter.

ABOUT ACE UNIVERSE
ACE Universe (www.aceuniverse.com) is a New York-based media and experiential events company founded by Gareb and Stephen Shamus, who are the world’s most experienced producers of Comic Con conventions.  Stephen has personally produced over 175 Comic Con events, booked thousands of celebrity guests, and played host to millions of happy fans.  Gareb is a leading pop-culture expert, founder of the largest Comic Con tour in the world, an original producer of national Comic Cons, and publisher of multiple award-winning magazines published in 75 countries worldwide.  ACE Universe produces premium events in world-class venues that feature the best of Film, TV, Gaming, Virtual Reality, Collectibles, Comics, Original Art, Toys, Action Figures, Graphic Novels, Illustrators, Writers, Creators, and Entertainment Programming.  Fans can live stream all ACE Universe events at www.aceuniverse.com and engage with us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

November 3, 2017 UPDATE:

(“Captain America” star Chris Evans, Stan Lee and “Spider-Man: Homecoming” star Tom Holland Image courtesy of ACE Universe)

The following is a press release from ACE Universe:

Stan Lee, co-creator of Spider-Man, world-renowned comic book writer and former publisher of Marvel Comics, has been added to the star-studded lineup for ACE Comic Con Arizona, which will take place Jan. 13-15 at Gila River Arena in Glendale.

Lee is known as the creative force behind Marvel Comics and was a co-creator for numerous popular Marvel characters, including Spider-Man.  He also is credited with re-launching Marvel’s Captain America in the 1960s.

“We are committed to bringing fans the best of the best guests, and today’s announcement reinforces this commitment,” said Stephen Shamus, President of ACE Universe. “Stan Lee is an iconic figure, and having the opportunity to take a Photo Op with his superhero creations come to life – Captain America & Spider-Man (Chris Evans & Tom Holland), will create a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Taking a Photo Op with all three will be a truly historic moment.”

Lee will be available for dual photo opportunities with Captain America (Chris Evans) and Spider-Man (Tom Holland), as well as a triple photo opportunity with both characters together.  Additionally, Lee will be doing solo photo opportunities and autograph sessions, and take part in a panel discussion which will be live streamed to fans around the world.

Lee also will participate in “Comic Con” night at the Arizona Coyotes – Edmonton Oilers game on Friday, Jan. 12, the night before the kickoff of ACE Comic Con Arizona.  Lee will be on hand to drop the puck to start the game, and a variety of other ACE Comic Con Arizona artists and vendors will be available on the concourse for autographs signings and merchandise sales.

ACE Comic Con Arizona officials announced one additional change to the weekend lineup.  Hayley Atwell (Agent Peggy Carter – “Captain America”), who was scheduled to appear both Saturday and Sunday, will now only appear on Sunday as she booked a role in a play. All Saturday ticket holders with VIP packages, photo ops or autographs including Hayley will be notified via email with instructions on how to exchange tickets for Sunday, or to get a refund.

ACE Comic Con Arizona is a division of ACE Universe, a newly launched experiential events company created by brothers Gareb and Stephen Shamus.  With 20 years of experience and 175 Comic Con shows under their belts, the brothers are creating a new immersive experience that looks to redefine the industry and break the mold of the linear Comic Con business.

 

2017 New York Comic Con: What to expect at this year’s event

October 5, 2017

by Carla Hay

New York Comic Con

The 12th annual New York Comic Con takes place October 5 to October 8 in New York City. The event is expected to draw at least 180,000 people, according to ReedPOP, company that produces the event. New York Comic Con’s main hub is at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, but there are also numerous activities taking place at several other locations in the city, including Hammerstein Ballroom, Hudson Mercantile, the New York Public Library and the Theater at Madison Square Garden.

TV shows dominate the most high-profile panels and activities. There are some movies due to be released in theaters that will be showcased at the event. And, of course, there will be plenty of panels, exhibits and previews for comic books, video games, fantasy novels and other pop-culture attractions.

This year, New York Comic Con has joined forces with Keanu Reeves, Hollywood and Puerto Rico Filmmakers and CINE to raise money for he Puerto Rico Film Friends Relief Fund, which will help victims and survivors of Hurricane Maria. Click here to donate or for more information. Reeves will be at New York Comic Con on October 5 to promote his movie “Replicas.”

Here is a list of the TV and movie panels that are expected to draw the largest crowds*:

TELEVISION

BBC America Presents: Peter Capaldi Spotlight

The Theater at Madison Square Garden

October 6, 2017, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Peter Capaldi, star of BBC America’s “Doctor Who,” will head the list of top talent set to attend NYCC. Capaldi, the 12th Doctor, is a Spotlight guest and will join fans for a panel on Friday, October 6. The fan Q&A marks his return to NYCC and is a very special moment leading up to the highly-anticipated Doctor Who Christmas Special, Twice Upon a Time, which is Peter Capaldi’s final episode in the iconic hit series. As previously revealed in the closing moments of the season finale, the special will feature Capaldi’s current Doctor team up with the First Doctor, played by David Bradley.

Rooster Teeth’s “RWBY”

The Theater at Madison Square Garden

October 6, 2017, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Rooster Teeth’s global hit western anime series “RWBY” returns to New York Comic Con, and the cast and crew are here with an exclusive sneak peek at Volume 5. Join Lindsay Jones (Ruby), Barbara Dunkelman (Yang), Miles Luna, Kerry Shawcross, and Gray G. Haddock for exciting “RWBY” news, hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, an audience Q&A and more!

Freeform’s Super Sci-Fi Q&A Panel with “Shadowhunters” and “Beyond”

The Theater at Madison Square Garden

October 7, 2017, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

Fans of Freeform’s hit series “Shadowhunters” and “Beyond” get a glimpse into the upcoming seasons from cast and executive producers. “Will it be smooth sailing for the reunited Malec?,” “Will Holden return to a normal life?,” plus much more will be revealed during this epic panel. Cast and EP participants to be announced at a later date.

Marvel Television Presents: “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D”

The Theater at Madison Square Garden

October 7, 2017, 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM

Join Jeph Loeb, Head of Marvel Television, in celebrating Season Five of “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” with the entire cast and executive producers as they come together at Madison Square Garden, for the very first time, with an action-packed panel, Q&A and never-before-seen footage. This is the one you’ve been waiting for!

“Star Trek: Discovery”

The Theater at Madison Square Garden

October 7, 2017, 3:45 PM – 4:45 PM

This fall on CBS All Access, Star Trek: Discovery follows the voyages of Starfleet on their missions to discover new worlds and new life forms, while learning that to truly understand all things alien, you must first understand yourself. The iconic television franchise, which first launched over 50 years ago, continues to remain true to its roots, and Starfleet’s steadfast ideals of adventure, an earnest pursuit for exploration, and the hope that we can all come together for a better tomorrow.  Join members of the cast, alongside the creative minds behind the new series for a panel conversation on Star Trek: Discovery.

AMC’s “The Walking Dead”

The Theater at Madison Square Garden

October 7, 2017, 7:45 PM – 8:45 PM

Join “The Walking Dead” cast and executive producers for a panel where they will discuss the season 7 finale and share a sneak peek into season 8, premiering October 22nd 9/8c.

In addition, these TV shows will be showcased with panels at New York Comic Con this year:

  • “American Gods”
  • “Archer: Danger Island”
  • “Ash vs. Evil Dead”
  • “Black Mirror”
  • “Blindspot”
  • “Castle Rock”
  • “Comic Book Men”
  • “Deception”
  • “The Defenders”
  • “Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency”
  • “Drunk History”
  • “Electric Dreams”
  • “The Exorcist”
  • “Explosion Jones”
  • “Family Guy”
  • “Final Space”
  • “Future Man”
  • “The Gifted”
  • “Gotham”
  • “Happy!”
  • “Hey Arnold!”
  • “Jack Ryan”
  • “Lore”
  • “The Magicians”
  • “The Man in the High Castle”
  • “Once Upon a Time”
  • “The Orville”
  • “Power Rangers Ninja Steel”
  • “Psych Reunion Movie”
  • “The President Show”
  • “Reverie”
  • “Robot Chicken”
  • “Runaways”
  • “The Shannara Chronicles”
  • “Shut Eye”
  • “Siren”
  • “Stan Against Evil”
  • “SuperMansion: Drag Me to Halloween”
  • “The Tick”
  • “Voltron: Legendary Defender”
  • “The X-Files”

MOVIES

“Pacific Rim Uprising”

The Theater at Madison Square Garden

October 6, 2017, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

“Pacific Rim Uprising” director Steven S. DeKnight will be joined by stars John Boyega, Scott Eastwood, Burn Gorman and Cailee Spaeny—as well as moderator Aaron Sagers, SYFY WIRE’s editor-at-large—to discuss the upcoming action-adventure from Legendary and introduce the world premiere of the new trailer.  The follow-up to 2013’s cinematic epic of monsters and mechs, the film will inspire a new generation to become the biggest heroes to ever walk the earth.  Also starring Jing Tian, Rinko Kikuchi, Adria Arjona and Charlie Day, “Pacific Rim Uprising” hits theaters March 2018.

“Professor Marston & the Wonder Women”

Hammerstein Ballroom

October 8, 2017, 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM

By now every fan knows the origin of Wonder Woman, but very few know about the real-life women who inspired the iconic super-heroine and their unique relationship with the man who created her. “Professor Marston & the Wonder Women” tells that fascinating and extraordinary story. Please join us for a preview panel about this acclaimed film with its stars Luke Evans, Rebecca Hall, and director Angela Robinson. Everyone attending will receive a “Professor Marston & the Wonder Women” poster and pencil. Moderated by Fandango’s Tiffany Smith.

“Replicas”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nio5Qf1l4cE

Javits Center, Room 1A06

October 5, 2017, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Join Keanu Reeves and the team behind “Replicas,” for an exclusive first look and conversation about the film. Reeves developed and produced the “Replicas” with his producing partner, Stephen Hamel, and Transformers-franchise producer, Lorenzo di Bonaventura.  The film is written by Chad St. John (“London Has Fallen:) from a story by Hamel, and directed by Jeffrey Nachmanoff (writer of “The Day After Tomorrow”). “Replicas” is the story of a scientist (Reeves) who loses his family in a horrific accident, but is determined save his wife and children by bringing them back to life with cutting-edge cloning technology.

*All panel descriptions are courtesy of New York Comic Con.

2017 Tribeca TV Festival: Event Photos and Videos

Tribeca_TV_Festival_Logo

The inaugural Tribeca TV Festival took place at Cinépolis Chelsea in New York City from September 22 to September 24, 2017. Here are photos and videos from the event:

2017 Tribeca TV Festival: Stars of ‘The Daily Show,’ ‘Ten Days in the Valley,’ ‘Designated Survivor’ and more gather for candid discussions

September 24, 2017

Tribeca_TV_Festival_Logo

The inaugural Tribeca TV Festival took place at Cinépolis Chelsea in New York City from September 22 to September 24, 2017. Here are highlights from September 24, 2017:

Trevor Noah & the writers of “The Daily Show”

Trevor Noah
Steve Bodow, Joseph Opio, Dulce Sloan, Trevor Noah and Zhubin Parang at the Tribeca TV Festival conversation with Trevor Noah and the writers of “The Daily Show” at Cinepolis Chelsea in New York City on September 24, 2017 (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for Tribeca TV Festival)

Trevor Noah offered a peek at what goes on behind the scenes at “The Daily Show” and talked about being the new kid on the late night block. He compared their work environment to “working in trauma,” noting that the “time from shock to laugh is the shortest amount of time possible.”  He went on to call Trump “the most dishonest, authentic person you will ever come across in your life,” and noted Hillary Clinton’s shortcomings in the election, remarking that she couldn’t “get to the emotion that was needed.”

View the livestream here

“Ten Days in the Valley”

Tassie Cameron, Kyra Sedgwick, Marcy Ross and Jill Littman at the Tribeca TV Festival series premiere of “Ten Days in the Valley” at Cinepolis Chelsea in New York City on September 24, 2017 (Photo by Carla Hay)

Kyra Sedgwick joined her all-female creative team from “Ten Days in The Valley” for an illuminating conversation about their smart take on the TV mystery-procedural. Kyra challenged the notion that a female character has to be likable, and noted the double standard, saying, “Did we ever ask if Walter White was a good father?….We really didn’t. I think [my character] is real. When I’m in people’s living rooms…I want to play a real character.”

View the livestream here

“Designated Survivor”

Kal Penn, Maggie Q, Italia Ricci and Paulo Costanzo at the Tribeca TV Festival season premiere of “Designated Survivor” at Cinepolis Chelsea in New York City on September 24, 2017 (Photo by Ben Gabbe/Getty Images for Tribeca TV Festival)

ABC’s “Designated Survivor” stars Maggie Q, Kal Penn, Italia Ricci and Paulo Costanzo discussed the striking similarities between their show’s storylines and what’s happening in Washington, noting that they had to adjust the ending of season one because it was “too close” to reality. The cast recollected about co-star Kiefer Sutherland’s intense chess skills and quipped about his dramatic delivery when he says “check.”

View the livestream here

“Red Oaks”

David Gordon Green, Alexandra Socha, Ennis Esmer, Alexandra Turshen, Freddie Roman, Paul Reiser, Joe Gangemi, Gregory Jacobs and Craig Roberts attend the Tribeca TV Festival season premiere of “Red Oaks” at Cinepolis Chelsea in New York City on September 24, 2017 (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for Tribeca TV Festival)

The ensemble cast and crew of “Red Oaks” reflected on what new and returning audiences can look forward to in their final season, and reminisced about their love of working together.  The cast chatted about their favorite things about the 80s, and executive producer Steven Soderbergh quipped that he didn’t remember the ’80s because he was born in 1989.

View the livestream here

“Queen Sugar”

Dawn-Lyen Gardner, Kofi Siriboe and Rutina Wesley at the Tribeca TV Festival mid-season premiere of “Queen Sugar” at Cinepolis Chelsea in New York City on September 24, 2017 (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for Tribeca TV Festival)

“Queen Sugar” stars Rutina Wesley, Dawn-Lyen Gardner and Kofi Siriboe discussed their mutual love and how they enjoy working with such “fierce” female directors. They called out Executive Producer Ava Duverney and said they wanted to direct an episode together. Diving into the more serious topics tackled within the series, the co-stars discussed the importance of accurately depicting race and culture.

View the livestream here

2017 Tribeca TV Festival: Stars of ‘Gotham,’ ‘Will & Grace,’ ‘Pillow Talk’ and more share show secrets

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