John Boyega and Danielle Deadwyler Tapped as Leads in Upcoming Otis Redding Biopic
John Boyega and Danielle Deadwyler are the stars of Otis and Zelma, a biopic about the life, career and love story of Otis Redding. We discuss it here!
John Boyega attends the GQ Men Of The Year Awards 2022 at The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London, England November 16, 2022.
Danielle Deadwyler arrives for the BAFTA Tea Party on January 14, 2023 in Beverly Hills, CA.
Photo Credit: Fred Duval/DFree
By: Joshua Martin
The Star Wars actor is channeling a new kind of star power as Otis Redding alongside Till actress, Deadwyler, in the upcoming biopic. Written and directed by acclaimed playwright, screenwriter and actor Donnetta Lavinia, this on-screen portrayal of the legendary musician’s career and the intricacies of he and his wife’s relationship has the full support of Zelma Redding and the Otis Redding estate. “Otis and Zelma” is the title of the film and will be directed by Channing Godfrey People and produced by Fifth Season, Homegrown Pictures and Kinfolk Management + Media.
All of this news comes ahead of Redding’s posthumous induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame this Friday (Oct. 4th). Redding’s daughter, Karla Redding, will accept the star on behalf of her late father and Killer Mike will deliver a speech at the event. Ana Martinez, Producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies, shared her thoughts on Redding’s star dedication.
“The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is honored to dedicate a star to the legendary Otis Redding, whose music continues to inspire generations.”
According to reports, an early synopsis of the film “celebrates the 10 short years Otis and Zelma had together, and their eternal love story after his passing. Zelma’s resilience and determination to preserve his musical legacy for the last 56 years fuels her, just as much as Otis’ love for Zelma fueled him.”
At just the age of 26 years old, Otis Redding died tragically in a 1967 plane crash. Leaving behind his wife and three young children. The Georgia legend’s solo career earned him two Grammy awards, the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Black Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
“He left so much special music for everybody. But I really have to commend my family and myself to continue this legacy because you cannot have a legacy if you don’t work it. We have everything we need for Otis Redding and that’s why we work so hard to preserve and protect his legacy. We wouldn’t know any way to do it without it.”
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Courtney B. Vance, Nia Long, Prince, And More Lead 2025 Hollywood Walk of Fame Class
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce revealed the top tier 2025 Class of Hollywood Walk of Fame inductees, featuring icons like Courtney B. Vance, Sherri Shepherd, Nia Long, Prince, and more! We discuss it here!
Courtney B. Vance, Nia Long, Prince, And More Lead 2025 Hollywood Walk of Fame Class
By: Joshua Martin
On June 24th, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce unveiled the 2025 Class of Hollywood Walk of Fame inductees. The star studded list includes Courtney B. Vance, Sherri Shepherd, Busta Rhymes, Fantasia, The Isley Brothers, Prince, Misty Copeland, Bill Duke, Glynn Turman, Nia Long, Toni Vaz and WAR.
Fantasia shared her excitement via an Instagram post. The news came shortly after a street was renamed after her in her hometown.
“Little girl from High Point, North Carolina, made it to the [Hollywood Walk of Fame]. Wow!!!! I’m lost for words. God Kept every Promise.” - Fantasia via Instagram
Nia Long took to social media as well to express her adulation, going on to honor her mother who manifested this special moment.
“My mother used to tell me when I was a little girl I would have a star on the HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME one day. I never really believed it was possible. Life was hard back then. Today a dream came true for both of us. I’m so grateful to be included with this amazing group of artists. Thank you Jesus!!! Thank you to all of you who continue to support my artistry. Thank you @WalkofFameStar for this incredible honor. I love you Mommy.” - Nia Long via X/Twitter
Shepherd’s announcement was made by her best friend, Niecy Nash-Betts, who rapped Kendrick Lamar’s “They Not Like Us” as she urged the crowd to to “clap for her friend.”
Busta Rhymes also took to social media to express his excitement for the honor.
“I WILL NEVER STOP TELLING YOU EVERY SINGLE DAY!! THE BLESSINGS DON’T STOP SO WE WON’T EVER STOP!! THE DRAGON IS OFFICIALLY APART OF THE CLASS OF 2025 HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME AND I WILL BE OFFICIALLY RECEIVING MY HOLLYWOOD STAR!! IT’S A CELEBRATION IN THE BIGGEST #BLOCKBUSTA WAY AND WE AIN’T NEVER STOPPING!!” - BUSTA RHYMES via Instagram
Honorees have up to two years after they are chosen to set a date for their ceremonies. Among the list of 2024 inductees, Chadwick Boseman, Angie Martinez, Brandy, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Kerry Washington, Toni Braxton and Otis Redding still have ceremonies to be scheduled.
Walk of Fame - Class of 2025 Announcement
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Garrett Morris to Receive a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in His Honor
Veteran actor Garrett Morris is finally set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on his 87th birthday. We discuss it here!
Garrett Morris posing for a Netflix show.
Photo cred: Netflix | Strong Black Legends
By: Adonis Armstrong
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is set to honor the Black Hollywood treasure, Garrett Morris, with his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Morris, a Juilliard-trained artist, showcased his talents with the Harry Belafonte Singers for a decade before diversifying into acting. His credits include performances in Broadway and off-Broadway musicals such as Porgy and Bess, Show Boat, Ain’t Supposed To Die A Natural Death, and The Great White Hope.
He gained recognition for his roles in The Wayans Bros., Martin, The Jamie Foxx Show, The Jeffersons, Scandal, All Of Us, Grand Crew, Self-Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker, and, most recently, 2 Broke Girls. Before Morris began his career in the '70s, securing leading roles in films like Cooley High and Who’s Your Caddy?, he gained significant recognition nearly two decades into the industry, following his time on Saturday Night Live.
Beyond his artistry, the New Orleans native is recognized as an activist who played a crucial role in desegregating the Actor’s Equity. He also contributed to the Black Arts Theater movement alongside poet-playwright Amiri Baraka.
Having transitioned to owning and operating the Los Angeles Blues and Comedy Club, Morris received recognition in 2007 from the former mayor of L.A., Antonio Villaraigosa, for his impactful work and contributions to the Black community.
The ceremony will take place on Feb. 1 at 11:30 a.m. PT, which also happens to be his 87th birthday. Additionally, Tichina Arnold will be in attendance as a guest speaker.
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Chadwick Boseman Set to Receive a Hollywood Star
Chadwick Boseman to receive posthumous Hollywood Walk of Fame Star in 2024 alongside diverse group of entertainment icons. We discuss it here!
Chadwick Boseman poses with his Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for Black Panther at the 50th NAACP Image awards in Los Angeles on March 30, 2019. (Alamy)
By: Adonis Armstrong
Every year, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce recognizes exceptional entertainers who have made significant contributions to the industry, and this year, Chadwick Boseman has been announced as one of the latest actors to be honored with a prestigious gold star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
At the age of 43, Chadwick Boseman, who tragically passed away from colon cancer in August 2020, gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of T'Challa, also known as Black Panther, in the 2018 film that shared the same name. His exceptional performance contributed to the film's three Academy Awards and established a groundbreaking legacy as the first black superhero in the modern cinematic world, leaving an indelible impact on the Marvel franchise.
Congrats to @ChadwickBoseman and all of the 2024 inductees to the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame! ✨ pic.twitter.com/HbtMlVUsKF
— Chadwick Boseman Foundation for the Arts (@bosemanfdn) June 26, 2023
Yesterday June 26th, Ellen K, the Chair and Walk of Famer, expressed in a statement on the organization's official website. “The Selection Committee, which is made up of fellow Walk of Famers, carefully hand-picks a group of honorees each year that represent various genres of the entertainment world. The Committee did an amazing job choosing these very talented people. We can’t wait to see each honoree’s reaction as they realize that they are becoming a part of Hollywood’s history with the unveiling of their star on the world’s most famous walkway!”
In the Motion Pictures category, Chadwick Boseman will be posthumously honored with the acclaimed recognition in 2024, alongside other notable figures from the realms of Television, Live Theatre/Live Performance, Radio, Recording, and Sports Entertainment such as Toni Braxton, Andre "Dr. Dre" Young, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Kerry Washington, Brandy Norwood, and many others.
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and its Walk of Fame Selection Panel extend their congratulations to all the honorees, noting that the dates for the star ceremonies are yet to be determined. Recipients have a two-year window from the date of selection to schedule their star ceremonies before the opportunity expires. Announcements for upcoming star ceremonies are typically made on the official website www.walkoffame.com, roughly ten days prior to the dedication.
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Martin Lawrence to Receive Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Comedian and film star Martin Lawrence is set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing his long and successful career in entertainment. We discuss it here!
Martin Lawrence
Emma McIntyre
By: Joshua Martin
Cue the Martin theme song!!
Martin!! Martin!! Martin!! You So Crazy!!
Martin Lawrence has been an entertainment mainstay since bursting onto the scene in the early 90’s with his raunchy comedic style and his burgeoning film career. His breakthrough came as the star of his own self entitled sitcom, Martin, before joining forces with Will Smith to form the long running Bad Boys film franchise. He’s also starred in familiar favorites such as Boomerang, Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing, Life with Eddie Murphy and the late great Bernie Mac, House Party with Kid-N-Play, Big Momma’s House and many other major productions.
We’ve literally seen this man grow from a comedian to a Television and film superstar, and now after an illustrious career, Marty Mart, as he is affectionately called, will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of fame.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, April 11th, via Ana Martinez’s Twitter account, who acts as the Hollywood Walk of Fame Producer & and Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Media Relations.
Comedian Martin Lawrence to be honored with star on the Walk of Fame on April 20th! #walkoffame pic.twitter.com/k5dJHGRjKk
— Ana Martinez (@wofstargirl) April 12, 2023
Last summer, the former Def Comedy Jam host found out he would be a part of the 2023 class and expressed his excitement via instagram.
Though recently receiving some well deserved flowers with the Martin Reunion Show, the NAACP Image Award winner doesn't seem to be slowing down. Lawrence will star alongside Chloe Bailey and Anthony Mackie in the animated film Sneaks, which is set to be finished in 2024. The star studded cast also includes Roddy Ricch, Ella Mai, Swae Lee, Macy Gray, Quavo, Keith david and Laurence Fishburne.
We also will see our favorite buddy cops return to the big screen for Bad Boys 4!!
— Martin Lawrence (@realmartymar) February 18, 2023
Variety reported in January that the latest sequel is in early pre-production and will be directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah the duo who directed “Bad Boys for Life” which accumulated over $420 million at the worldwide box office.
Lawrence will take a short break from filming the highly anticipated sequel to Bad Boys, with long time friend Will Smith, to attend the event.
Being born in the late 1900’s, Martin Lawrence has definitely been a huge part of my coming of age. It's good to see the Comedic legend receive the accolades he righteously deserves. Congrats to the goat!!
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Michael B. Jordan Receives A Star on the Hollywood Half of Fame
With Creed III set to release in just two days, Michael B. Jordan is set to have an iconic month of March with it kicking off by receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. We discuss it here!
Michael B. Jordan kneels in front of his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
GETTY IMAGES
By: Omar Cook
With Creed III set to release in just two days, Michael B. Jordan is set to have an iconic month of March with it kicking off by receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame Wednesday. Jordan is making new strides with his directorial debut coming with Creed III. To star and direct in a major Hollywood film is a tall task, but Michael B. Jordan has shown that he can excel with the added weight on his shoulders.
Michael B. Jordan will reprise his role as Adonis Creed alongside Johnathan Majors, who plays Jordan’s rival in the movie. Majors was at the ceremony joined by Creed director Ryan Coogler as the both of them spoke on Jordan’s behalf.
"Michael, to me, represents a mythical character. I don't think it's an act of luck or an act of chance that so many people see him as Adonis [and] that he was cast as Adonis. He has taken this story and pushed it forward... I don't think that's a coincidence" Majors said.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 01: Michael B. Jordan (C) and family attend the Hollywood Walk Of Fame Star Ceremony honoring Michael B. Jordan on March 01, 2023 in Hollywood, California.
GETTY IMAGES
It’s been an amazing journey for Jordan, first making his acting debut in a 1999 episode of The Sopranos and his first principal movie role in 2001 sports drama, Hardball.
Jordan spoke about the advice he would give to his younger self stating, "stay optimistic, stay faithful, stay true to yourself [and] always keep a full, kind heart. The universe will make your wildest dreams come true."
Jordan also reflected on his late friend, Chadwick Boseman, mentioning that he was looking down on them. Ryan Coogler shared his admiration. “It's been a ride of a lifetime...watching him blossom” Coogler said. “From Newark, New Jersey, bro, to walking in front of driving cars to having your name on this street, bro, God d**n!'“
Ryan Coogler & Jonathan Majors Talk Creed lll, Black Panther And Why Michael B. Jordan Is The Man
Meet Joshua Martin, Senior Video Editor for 247 Live Culture!
Email: Joshua@247LCTV.com