Paramount+’s documentary series Pillowcase Murders dives into the heartbreaking deaths of senior citizens at the hands of serial killer Billy Chemirmir. Many of Chemirmir helpless elderly victims were assumed to have died of heart attacks or strokes. Instead, Chemirmir ended their lives by smothering them with pillows.
Family members were told their relatives died of natural causes, yet items were missing from each of the dead bodies. “She had died naturally and someone just happened to come by and rob the jewelry off of her cold dead body,” says the daughter of one of Chemirmir’s victims. Others recall how none of the explanations made sense, until finally the police caught on to the possibility a serial killer was stalking elderly women.
A scene from ‘Pillowcase Murders’ episode 3 (Photo Credit: CBS / Paramount+)
“When dozens of women enjoying their golden years unexpectedly died at Senior Living Communities across the Dallas area, authorities classified the deaths as natural causes. No one suspected that a cold-blooded, serial killer, posing as a maintenance man, was targeting one of the most vulnerable populations: elderly women. Pillowcase Murders unravels how Chemirmir operated undetected for nearly two years, exploiting a demographic that’s often forgotten,” reads Paramount+’s synopsis.
“Over the three episodes, the series uncovers the shocking oversights and security failures that allowed the killer to pursue his reign of terror unimpeded. The victims’ families felt doubly tormented – at the hands of the killer and by the people they entrusted to protect their loved ones. Only a few individuals, including the victims’ daughters, security guards, and a dedicated, observant group of Plano police officers, were able to pull the fractured pieces together that eventually uncovered the monster among them – one who stalked and violently smothered dozens of victims with their own pillows. Once the horrific truth came to light – that these women didn’t die of natural causes – outraged family members demanded justice and accountability from those who stood by and did nothing as the body count rose.”
The three-part docuseries premieres on Paramount+ on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Randy Ferrell (Justice, USA) directed and executive produced. Additional executive producers include David Karabinas, Brad Bernstein, James Macnab, and Loni Coombs. For See It Now Studios’ Susan Zirinsky and Terence Wrong also executive produce.
Stereophonic and Hell’s Kitchen top the list of the 77th Annual Tony Awards nominees, each scoring 13 nominations. The Outsiders was close behind with 13, while Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club earned nine and Appropriate picked up eight nominations.
This year’s multiple nominees also include Merrily We Roll Along and Water for Elephants with seven. Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch and Suffs received six nominations each.
Tony and Oscar winner Ariana DeBose (West Side Story) is set to make her third appearance as the show’s host. The 77th Annual Tony Awards will air live on CBS on Sunday, June 16, 2024 at 5pm PT/8pm ET.
2024 Tony Awards Nominees
Best Book of a Musical
Hell’s Kitchen – Kristoffer Diaz
The Notebook – Bekah Brunstetter
The Outsiders – Adam Rapp and Justin Levine
Suffs – Shaina Taub
Water for Elephants – Rick Elice
Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
Days of Wine and Roses – Music & Lyrics: Adam Guettel
Here Lies Love – Music: David Byrne and Fatboy Slim, Lyrics: David Byrne
The Outsiders – Music & Lyrics: Jamestown Revival (Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance) and Justin Levine
Stereophonic – Music & Lyrics: Will Butler
Suffs – Music & Lyrics: Shaina Taub
Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
William Jackson Harper, Uncle Vanya
Leslie Odom, Jr., Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch
Liev Schreiber, Doubt: A Parable
Jeremy Strong, An Enemy of the People
Michael Stuhlbarg, Patriots
Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play
Betsy Aidem, Prayer for the French Republic
Jessica Lange, Mother Play
Rachel McAdams, Mary Jane
Sarah Paulson, Appropriate
Amy Ryan, Doubt: A Parable
Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical
Brody Grant, The Outsiders
Jonathan Groff, Merrily We Roll Along
Dorian Harewood, The Notebook
Brian d’Arcy James, Days of Wine and Roses
Eddie Redmayne, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
Eden Espinosa, Lempicka
Maleah Joi Moon, Hell’s Kitchen
Kelli O’Hara, Days of Wine and Roses
Maryann Plunkett, The Notebook
Gayle Rankin, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play
Will Brill, Stereophonic
Eli Gelb, Stereophonic
Jim Parsons, Mother Play
Tom Pecinka, Stereophonic
Corey Stoll, Appropriate
Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play
Quincy Tyler Bernstine, Doubt: A Parable
Juliana Canfield, Stereophonic
Celia Keenan-Bolger, Mother Play
Sarah Pidgeon, Stereophonic
Kara Young, Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch
Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical
Roger Bart, Back to the Future: The Musical
Joshua Boone, The Outsiders
Brandon Victor Dixon, Hell’s Kitchen
Sky Lakota-Lynch, The Outsiders
Daniel Radcliffe, Merrily We Roll Along
Steven Skybell, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical
Shoshana Bean, Hell’s Kitchen
Amber Iman, Lempicka
Nikki M. James, Suffs
Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer, Monty Python’s Spamalot
Kecia Lewis, Hell’s Kitchen
Lindsay Mendez, Merrily We Roll Along
Bebe Neuwirth, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Best Scenic Design of a Play
dots, Appropriate
dots, An Enemy of the People
Derek McLane, Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch
David Zinn, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
David Zinn, Stereophonic
Best Scenic Design of a Musical
AMP featuring Tatiana Kahvegian, The Outsiders
Robert Brill and Peter Nigrini, Hell’s Kitchen
Takeshi Kata, Water for Elephants
David Korins, Here Lies Love
Riccardo Hernández and Peter Nigrini, Lempicka
Tim Hatley and Finn Ross, Back to the Future: The Musical
Tom Scutt, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Best Costume Design of a Play
Dede Ayite, Appropriate
Dede Ayite, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
Enver Chakartash, Stereophonic
Emilio Sosa, Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch
David Zinn, An Enemy of the People
Best Costume Design of a Musical
Dede Ayite, Hell’s Kitchen
Linda Cho, The Great Gatsby
David Israel Reynoso, Water for Elephants
Tom Scutt, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Paul Tazewell, Suffs
Best Lighting Design of a Play
Isabella Byrd, An Enemy of the People
Amith Chandrashaker, Prayer for the French Republic
Jiyoun Chang, Stereophonic
Jane Cox, Appropriate
Natasha Katz, Grey House
Best Lighting Design of a Musical
Brandon Stirling Baker, Illinoise
Isabella Byrd, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Natasha Katz, Hell’s Kitchen
Bradley King and David Bengali, Water for Elephants
Brian MacDevitt and Hana S. Kim, The Outsiders
Best Sound Design of a Play
Justin Ellington and Stefania Bulbarella, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
Leah Gelpe, Mary Jane
Tom Gibbons, Grey House
Bray Poor and Will Pickens, Appropriate
Ryan Rumery, Stereophonic
Best Sound Design of a Musical
M.L. Dogg and Cody Spencer, Here Lies Love
Kai Harada, Merrily We Roll Along
Nick Lidster for Autograph, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Gareth Owen, Hell’s Kitchen
Cody Spencer, The Outsiders
Best Direction of a Play
Daniel Aukin, Stereophonic
Anne Kauffman, Mary Jane
Kenny Leon, Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch
Lila Neugebauer, Appropriate
Whitney White, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
Best Direction of a Musical
Maria Friedman, Merrily We Roll Along
Michael Greif, Hell’s Kitchen
Leigh Silverman, Suffs
Jessica Stone, Water for Elephants
Danya Taymor, The Outsiders
Best Choreography
Annie-B Parson, Here Lies Love
Camille A. Brown, Hell’s Kitchen
Rick Kuperman and Jeff Kuperman, The Outsiders
Justin Peck, Illinoise
Jesse Robb and Shana Carroll, Water for Elephants
Best Orchestrations
Timo Andres, Illinoise
Will Butler and Justin Craig, Stereophonic
Justin Levine, Matt Hinkley and Jamestown Revival (Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance), The Outsiders
Tom Kitt and Adam Blackstone, Hell’s Kitchen
Jonathan Tunick, Merrily We Roll Along
Best Play
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
Author: Jocelyn Bioh
Producers: Manhattan Theatre Club, Lynne Meadow, Chris Jennings, Madison Wells Live, LaChanze, Taraji P. Henson
Mary Jane
Author: Amy Herzog
Producers: Manhattan Theatre Club, Lynne Meadow, Chris Jennings
Mother Play
Author: Paula Vogel
Producers: Second Stage Theater, Carole Rothman, Lisa Lawer Post, Salman and Vienn Al-Rashid, Courtney Lederer and Mark Thierfelder, Jerry and Roz Meyer, Alix L.L. Ritchie, Jayne Baron Sherman
Prayer for the French Republic
Author: Joshua Harmon
Producers: Manhattan Theatre Club, Lynne Meadow, Chris Jennings
Stereophonic
Author: David Adjmi
Producers: Sue Wagner, John Johnson, Seaview, Sonia Friedman Productions, Linden Productions, Ashley Melone, Nick Mills, Jillian Robbins, Stella La Rue, Alex Levy & David Aron, Dori Berinstein, James Bolosh, Burnt Umber Productions, The Cohn Sisters, Cathy Dantchik, Alexander R. Donnelly, Emerald Drive, Federman Koenigsberg, Dann Fink, Ruth Hendel, Larry Hirschhorn, Jenen Rubin, John Gore Organization, Willette & Manny Klausner, LAMF Protozoa, Katrina McCann, Stephanie P. McClelland, No Guarantees, Marissa Palley & Daniel Aron, Anna Schafer, Soto Namoff Productions, Sean Walsh, Bruce & Peggy Wanta, Hillary Wyatt, deRoy Howard, Winkler & Smalberg, 42nd.club, Craig Balsam, Concord Theatricals, Creative Partners Productions, Jonathan Demar, Douglas Denoff, DJD Productions, Echo Lake Entertainment, Faliro House, FilmNation Entertainment, Roy Gabay, GFour Productions, Candy Kosow Gold, Wes Grantom, Rachel Bendit & Mark Bernstein, Playwrights Horizons, Adam Greenfield, Leslie Marcus, Carol Fishman
‘Hell’s Kitchen’ earns 13 Tony Awards nominations (Poster Courtesy of the Production)
Best Musical
Hell’s Kitchen
Producers: AK Worldwide Media, Inc., Roc Nation, DML Productions, Mandy Hackett, The Sunshine Group, Julie Yorn, The Jacobs Family, No Guarantees Productions, Front Row Productions, Sharpton Swindal Productions, Grove Entertainment, The Jaime Family, John Gore Organization, Terria Joseph, Andy Nahas, James L. Nederlander, Candy Spelling, Clara Wu Tsai, Universal Music Publishing, Independent Presenters Network, Della Pietra Spark Theatricals, Today Tix ARGU, Score 3 Partners, Aaron Lustbader, The Public Theater, Oskar Eustis, Patrick Willingham
Illinoise
Producers: Orin Wolf, Seaview, John Styles, David Binder, Emily Blavatnik, Susan Rose, ArKtype/Thomas O. Kriegsmann, David F. Schwartz, Patrick Catullo, Jon B. Platt, Diamond & Melvin, Nelson & Tao, Ruth Hendel, Elysabeth Kleinhans, Ted & Mary Jo Shen, Putnam & Thau, Chase & F.K.R., GJJJM Productions, Steve & Leticia Trauber, Tim Forbes, John Gore Organization, James L. Nederlander, Park Avenue Armory, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Nate Koch, TT Partners, Fisher Center at Bard
The Outsiders
Producers: The Araca Group, American Zoetrope, Olympus Theatricals, Sue Gilad & Larry Rogowsky, Angelina Jolie, Betsy Dollinger, Jonathan & Michelle Clay, Cristina Marie Vivenzio, The Shubert Organization, LaChanze & Marylee Fairbanks, Debra Martin Chase, Sony Music Masterworks, Jamestown Revival Theater, Jennifer & Jonathan Allan Soros, Tanninger Entertainment, Tamlyn Brooke Shusterman, Geffen Playhouse/Howard Tenenbaum/Linda B. Rubin, Kevin Ryan, Mistry Theatrical Ventures, Galt & Irvin Productions, Tulsa Clarks, Paul & Margaret Liljenquist, Bob & Claire Patterson, Voltron Global Media, James L. Nederlander, Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, The John Gore Organization, Independent Presenters Network, Stephen Lindsay & Brett Sirota, Jeffrey Finn, Playhouse Square, Sue Marks, Indelible InK, Lionheart Productions, The Broadway Investor’s Club, Starhawk Productions, Distant Rumble, Green Leaf Partnership, Michael & Elizabeth Venuti, Leslie Kavanaugh, Deborah & Dave Smith, Belle Productions, Chas & Jen Grossman, Miranda & Sahra Esmonde-White, Rungnapa & Jim Teague, Michael & Molly Schroeder, Casey & Chelsea Baugh, James L. Flautt, Jon L. Morris, Becky Winkler, William Moran Hickey, Jr. & William Horan Hickey, III, Oddly Specific Productions, Melissa Chamberlain & Michael McCartney, Rachel Weinstein, Wavelength Productions, Rob O’Neill & Shane Snow, Eric Stine, Cornice Productions, La Jolla Playhouse
Suffs
Producers: Jill Furman, Rachel Sussman, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Malala Yousafzai, Roy Furman, Allison Rubler, Cue to Cue Productions, Sandy Robertson, Kevin Ryan & Diane Scott Carter, Renee Ring & Paul Zofnass, Walport Productions, Judith Teel Davis & Joe Carroll, Tom D’Angora & Michael D’Angora, Louise Gund, Erica Lynn Schwartz, Stone Arch Theatricals/Mayer Productions, Xan Weiser/Matters of the Art, Nothing Ventured Productions, Christin Brecher, Chutzpah Productions, Morgan Steward, 16 Sunset Productions, The Broadway Investor’s Club, Ari Conte, Rose Maxi, Jennifer Friedland, David Carroll, Julie E. Cohen, The Garelicks, Ruth Ann Harnisch, Meena Harris, John Gore Organization, Laura Lonergan, Sally Martin, Peter May, The Mehiels, Nederlander Presentations, Brian Spector, Candy Spelling, Ed Walson, Zuckerberg/Segal, Needle Productions/Oddly Specific Productions, Alissandra Aronow/Wandi Productions, Craig Balsam/Jennifer Kroman, Burkhardt Jones Productions/Adam Cohen, Vibecke Dahle Dellapolla/Samantha Squeri, Funroe Productions/Kim Khoury, Sheri Clark Henriksen/Robert Tichio, Michelle Noh/Todd B. Rubin, Nick Padgett/Vasi Laurence
Water for Elephants
Producers: Peter Schneider, Jennifer Costello, Grove Entertainment, Frank Marshall, Isaac Robert Hurwitz, Seth A. Goldstein, Jane Bergère, Elizabeth Armstrong, Jason M. Brady, Carl & Jennifer Pasbjerg, Erica Rotstein & Crista Marie Jackson, Jana Bezdek & Jen Hoguet, John H. Tyson, Rich Entertainment Group, Jeremiah J. Harris, John Gore Organization, Jeff & Shannon Fallick, Patti & Mike Sullivan, Rodney Rigby, Larry Lelli, Bonnie Feld, Yonge Street Theatricals, Larry J. Kroll, The Shubert Organization, Nederlander Presentations, Nancy Gibbs, Jack Lane, Amy & PJ Lampi, Gwen Arment & Vasi Laurence, Mark Parkman Fairview Productions, Nothing Ventured Productions, Pam Hurst-Della Pietra & Stephen Pietra, Steven Spielberg & Kate Capshaw, The Glasshouse USA, Willette & Manny Klausner, John Paterakis, Hope Tschopik Schneider, Patty Baker, The Burcaws & Q’d Up Productions, Crescent Road, Cynthia Stroum, Sally Jacobs & Warren Baker, Tawnia Knox & Stuart Snyder, Madison Wells Live & Takonkiet Viravan, Terry H. Morgenthaler, Pamela Moschetti, Gabrielle Palitz & Fahs Productions, The Roehl Family & Chema Verduzco, Shapiro Jensen Schroeder, Tre Amici Productions, We Eat Dreams Productions, Rachel Weinstein, Maik Klokow, Margot Astrachan, Mehr-BB Entertainment
Best Revival of a Play
Appropriate
Author: Branden Jacobs-Jenkins
Producers: Second Stage Theater, Carole Rothman, Lisa Lawer Post, Ambassador Theatre Group, Amanda Dubois, Annapurna Theatre, Bad Robot Live
An Enemy of the People
New Version: Amy Herzog
Producers: Seaview, Patrick Catullo, Plan B, Roth-Manella Productions, Eric & Marsi Gardiner, John Gore Organization, James L. Nederlander, Jon B. Platt, Atekwana Hutton, Bob Boyett, Chris & Ashlee Clarke, Cohen-Demar Productions, Andrew Diamond, GI6 Productions, Sony Music Masterworks, Triptyk Studios, Trunfio Ryan, Kate Cannova, DJL Productions
Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch
Producers: Jeffrey Richards, Hunter Arnold, Leslie Odom, Jr., Louise Gund, Bob Boyett, Curt Cronin, John Joseph, Willette and Manny Klausner, Brenda Boone, Salman Moudhy Al-Rashid, Creative Partners Productions, Irene Gandy, Kayla Greenspan, Mark and David Golub Productions, Kenny Leon, John Gore Organization, W3 Productions, Morwin Schmookler, Van Kaplan, Ken Greiner, Patrick W. Jones, Nicolette Robinson, National Black Theatre, Alan Alda, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Samuel L. Jackson, Phylicia Rashad, Nnamdi Asomugha, Kerry Washington, The Shubert Organization
Best Revival of a Musical
Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
Producers: ATG Productions, Underbelly, Gavin Kalin Productions, Hunter Arnold, Smith & Brant Theatricals, Wessex Grove, Julie Boardman, Tom Smedes, Peter Stern, Heather Shields, Caiola Productions, Kate Cannova, Adam Blanshay Productions & Nicolas Talar, Aleri Entertainment, Alex Levy Productions, Bunny Rabbit Productions, D’Angora Padgett Productions, Cyrene Esposito, David Treatman, Eddie Redmayne, The Array IV, Bad Robot Live, BlueJay Productions, Grace Street Creative Group, Iocane Productions, Jim Kierstead, Marco Santarelli, Tokyo Broadcasting System Television, George Waud, Yonge Street Theatricals, Federman Koenigsberg Productions/Sara Beth Zivitz, Tina Marie Casamento/Jennifer Johns, M. Kilburg Reedy/Tilman Kemmler, Greenspan Proffer/Kat Kit 4, Patty Baker/Matthew Christopher Pietras, Broadway Strategic Return Fund/Red Mountain Theatre Company, Evan Coles/The Cohn Sisters, Nolan Doran/Fakston Productions, Epic Theatricals/Jeffrey Grove, Jessica Goldman Foung/Andrew Paradis, William Frisbie Tilted Marguerite Steed Hoffman/Willette & Manny Klausner, Vasi Laurence/Stephen C Byrd, Brian & Dayna Lee/City Cowboy Productions, Maybe This Time/3D Productions, Nothing Ventured Productions/Theatre Producers of Color, Perfectly Marvelous/Catherine Schreiber & Co, Second Act/Freedom Theatricals, SSP Holdings/Todd & Bronwyn Bradley, Two Ladies/Nicole Eisenberg, Ilana Waldenberg/W Stage Productions, The Wolf Pack/Burnt Umber Productions, The Shubert Organization
Gutenberg! The Musical!
Producers: Ambassador Theatre Group, Patrick Catullo, Bad Robot Live, Seth A. Goldstein, Isaac Robert Hurwitz, Runyonland Productions, Elizabeth Armstrong, Timothy Bloom, Larry Lelli, Alchemation, The Council, Crescent Road, Wendy Federman, Marcia Goldberg, Hariton deRoy, LD Entertainment, James L. Nederlander, Al Nocciolino, Spencer Ross, Independent Presenters Network, Medley Houlihan/Score 3 Partners, Tryptyk Studios/Iris Smith, Jonathan Demar/Griffin Dohr, Andrew Diamond/Alexander Donnelly, Futurehome Productions/Koenigsberg Subhedar, Roy Gabay/Nicole Eisenberg, Jessica R. Jenen/Linda B. Rubin, Daniel Powell/Amplify Pictures, Jeremy Wein/Walport Productions, Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Bee Carrozzini
Merrily We Roll Along
Producers: Sonia Friedman Productions, David Babani, Patrick Catullo, Jeff Romley, Debbie Bisno, Lang Entertainment Group, OHenry Productions, Winkler & Smalberg, Stephanie P. McClelland, Timothy Bloom, Creative Partners Productions, Eastern Standard Time, Fakston Productions, Marc David Levine, No Guarantees, Ted & Mary Jo Shen, Gilad Rogowsky, Playing Field, Key to the City Productions, Richard Batchelder/Trunfio Ryan, FineWomen Productions/Henry R. Muñoz, III, Thomas Swayne/Lamar Richardson, Abrams Corr/Mary Maggio, Osh Ashruf/Brenner-Ivey, Craig Balsam/PBL Productions, deRoy DiMauro Productions/Medley Houlihan, Andrew Diamond/Katler-Solomon Productions, Dodge Hall Productions/Carl Moellenberg, Friedman Simpson/Vernon Stuckelman, William Frisbie/J.J. Powell, Robert Greenblatt/Jonathan Littman, Cleveland O’Neal, III/Tom Tuft, Roth-Manella Productions/Seaview, New York Theatre Workshop
The Who’s Tommy
Producers: Stephen Gabriel, Ira Pittelman, Sue Gilad & Larry Rogowsky, Mary Maggio & Scott Abrams, Tom Tuft and Glenn Fuhrman, Batman Harris/Elliott Cornelious, Laura Matalon/Spencer Waller, Richard Winkler, Sheldon Stone, Firemused Productions/Stone Arch Theatricals, LeonoffFedermanWolosky Productions/Koenigsberg Batchelder, Roy Putrino/Narang Moran, Rich Martino, Aged in Wood/Lee Sachs, Paul and Margaret Liljenquist, R & R Productions, Marla McNally Phillips, Merrie Robin, O’Neill Snow, Work Light Productions, Nederlander Presentations, Independent Presenters Network, John Gore Organization, Palomino Performing Arts, Wavelength Productions, Robert Nederlander, Jr., Botwin Ignal Dawson, Jamie deRoy, Betsy Dollinger, Stacey Woolf Feinberg, Gold Weinstein, Tyce Green, Jenen Rubin, Jim Kierstead, Marco Santarelli, Nancy Timmers, Thomas B. McGrath, Olympus Theatricals, Goodman Theatre
Steve Carell. Emily Blunt. Matt Damon. George Clooney. Director John Krasinski’s IF is absolutely loaded with big-name actors bringing the film’s titular characters to life. Paramount Pictures’ minute-and-a-half “Meet the Cast” featurette introduces the family-friendly film’s “imaginary friends,” with snippets of the actors voicing their characters.
The cast also includes Ryan Reynolds, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr., Alan Kim, and Liza Colón-Zayas. Chris Meloni, Amy Schumer, Sam Rockwell, Keegan-Michael Key, Sebastian Maniscalco, Richard Jenkins, Matthew Rhys, Bradley Cooper, Maya Rudolph, Sam Rockwell, Blake Lively, and Awkwafina pop in to voice the weird assortment of imaginary friends. Even Krasinski took on an imaginary friend role, voicing a toasted marshmallow.
“From writer and director John Krasinski, IF is about a girl who discovers that she can see everyone’s imaginary friends — and what she does with that superpower — as she embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids,” reads Paramount’s synopsis.
Allyson Seeger, John Krasinski, Andrew Form, and Ryan Reynolds served as producers. Executive producers include John J. Kelly, George Dewey, and Kimberly Nelson LoCascio.
The teaser for CBS’s The Equalizer season four episode eight shows Dante’s in serious trouble. Directed by Cheryl Dunye from a script by Joseph C. Wilson and Rob Hanning, episode eight – “Condemned” – airs on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at 8pm ET/PT.
Queen Latifah leads the cast as Robyn McCall, Tory Kittles stars as Detective Marcus Dante, Adam Goldberg is Harry Keshegian, Liza Lapira is Melody “Mel” Bayani, and Laya DeLeon Hayes plays Delilah. Lorraine Toussaint plays Viola “Vi” Marsette.
“Condemned” Plot: McCall races to help Dante and Big Ben (Danny Johnson) after they are ambushed by a group of suspicious attackers and a major family secret is revealed. Meanwhile, at a party celebrating 50 years of hip-hop, Aunt Vi tries to maintain her status as the reigning queen of the annual cobbler baking contest. And Dee suspects a mutual friend may have stolen prize money.
The Equalizer Series Description, Courtesy of CBS:
The Equalizer is a reimagining of the classic series starring Academy Award nominee and multi-hyphenate Queen Latifah as Robyn McCall, an enigmatic woman with a mysterious background who uses her extensive skills as a former CIA operative to help those with nowhere else to turn. McCall presents to most as an average single mom who is quietly raising her teenage daughter. But to a trusted few, she is The Equalizer – an anonymous guardian angel and defender of the downtrodden, who’s also dogged in her pursuit of personal redemption.
Robyn’s clandestine work and her personal life collide when her smart and observant daughter, Delilah, and her aunt Vi, who lives with Robyn to help her balance life as a working mother, discover her secret career as a vigilante. While Robyn contends with uncertainty at home, she is joined in her pursuit of justice by Melody “Mel” Bayani, an edgy bar owner and sniper from Robyn’s past; and Harry Keshegian, a paranoid and brilliant white-hat hacker.
As Robyn aids the oppressed and exploited, she sometimes works with Marcus Dante, an NYPD detective who once sought to uncover her identity, but now respects the need for Robyn’s type of justice even as he often questions her methods.
The early release of a serial killer has Baez on edge on CBS’s Blue Bloods season 14 episode eight. Directed by Ralph Hemecke from a script by Kevin Reilly, episode eight – “Wicked Games” – airs on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 10pm ET/PT.
Tom Selleck returns to lead the final season’s cast as Frank Reagan. Donnie Wahlberg stars as Danny Reagan, Bridget Moynahan plays Erin Reagan, Will Estes is Jamie Reagan, Len Cariou is Henry Reagan, Marisa Ramirez plays Maria Baez, and Vanessa Ray stars as Eddie Janko.
“Wicked Games” Plot: Danny and Baez are on edge when Sam Evans (David R. Nash), a serial killer who once targeted Baez and her daughter, is released early from prison. Also, Jamie and Anthony team up on an investigation involving one of Anthony’s criminal informants, his ex-wife’s brother. Eddie clashes with Captain McNichols over a sergeant who keeps downgrading her cases, and Frank is upset when Abigail goes behind his back regarding a professional favor for her husband.
Blue Bloods is a drama about a multi-generational family of cops dedicated to New York City law enforcement. Frank Reagan is the New York Police Commissioner, and heads both the police force and the Reagan brood. He runs his department as diplomatically as he runs his family, even when dealing with the politics that plagued his unapologetically bold father, Henry, during his stint as chief.
A source of pride and concern for Frank is his eldest son, Danny, a seasoned detective, family man, and Iraq War vet who on occasion uses dubious tactics to solve cases with his partner Detective Maria Baez. Erin, the middle daughter, is a New York assistant D.A. who serves as the legal compass for her siblings and father. Jamie is the youngest Reagan, a Harvard Law graduate, and the family’s golden boy. Unable to deny the family tradition, Jamie decided to give up a lucrative future in law and follow in the family footsteps as a cop. He’s found a friend and ally in his wife, Eddie, who keeps him on his toes and has very different reasons than the Reagans for joining the police force.
Gard Hollinger and Keanu Reeves set up ‘The Arch Project’ docuseries (Photo Credit: Roku)
ARCH Motorcycle co-founders/friends Keanu Reeves and Gard Hollinger have set up The Arch Project (working title) at Roku, with the streaming service greenlighting the docuseries. Roku’s announcement didn’t confirm when production will get underway or an anticipated premiere date.
“Our goal in creating this show is to explore the answers to the question, ‘Where does human creativity and ingenuity come from?’ We’ve sought out artists, innovators, and creators whose stories we hope will inspire viewers to find answers that help unlock their own creativity,” said Gard Hollinger and Keanu Reeves.
Venture 10 Studio Group is producing the documentary series. Keanu Reeves, Gard Hollinger, Sharon Trojan Hollinger, John Stevens, and Brian Skope serve as executive producers. Rick De Oliveira is a consulting executive producer.
“Through a genuine drive to better understand human creativity, Gard Hollinger and Keanu Reeves will bring audiences a series that inspire us all to dream bigger and bolder,” stated Sean Boyle, Roku Originals. “We’re proud to partner with Sharon, Gard, Keanu, and Venture 10 Studio Group on this one-of-a-kind docuseries for audiences to enjoy for free on The Roku Channel.”
Reeves and Hollinger co-founded Arch Motorcycles in 2011. Based in Hawthorne, CA, the company produces high-end, bespoke motorcycles and is well-regarded for its reputation for performance, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
“This new series follows Hollinger and Reeves on a quest to find the answer to the question: ‘Where does human creativity and ingenuity come from?’ Fueled by their own curiosity and desire to learn, Hollinger and Reeves help find and explore the stories of those whose ideas and achievements they admire,” reads Roku’s synopsis. “We’ll join these mavericks to meet and learn how their unique views help fuel them to shape and change the world and hopefully find some answers to that never-ending question.”
‘ACM Awards’ 2024 Performers Poster (Photo Courtesy of Academy of Country Music)
Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, and Jelly Roll are confirmed to perform on the 2024 ACM Awards hosted by Reba McEntire. The first-round lineup of announced performers also includes Kane Brown, Cody Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Jason Aldean, and Thomas Rhett.
The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards will take place at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas on May 16th. This year’s awards show will air live on Prime Video and Amazon’s Music Channel on Twitch beginning at 5pm PT/8pm ET. Raj Kapoor is on board as showrunner and will executive produce alongside the Academy of Country Music’s Damon Whiteside and Dick Clark Productions’ Barry Adelman.
The 2024 show will mark 16-time ACM Award-winner Reba McEntire’s 17th time guiding the Country music celebration as host. McEntire’s also set to perform new music during the broadcast.
“I am tickled to pieces to get to host the ACM Awards for the 17th time!” said McEntire. “What an honor to have been part of the past, present and now the future of the Academy of Country Music with Amazon Prime Video. I can’t wait to get to Texas and see everybody May 16th!”
The ACM Awards was created in 1966 and holds the title of longest-running Country music awards show.
LeVar Burton directs the penultimate episode of CBS’s NCIS: Hawaii, “Spill the Tea.” The network decided not to renew the NCIS spinoff for a fourth season, so season three episode nine is one of just two new remaining episodes of the primetime drama. Episode nine, written by Ron McGee and Megan Bacharach, airs on Monday, April 29, 2024 at 10pm ET/PT.
Season three stars Vanessa Lachey as Special Agent in Charge Jane Tennant, Alex Tarrant as Kai Holman, Noah Mills as Jesse Boone, and Yasmine Al-Bustami as Lucy Tara. Jason Antoon plays Ernie Malik, Tori Anderson is Kate Whistler, and Kian Talan is Alex Tennant. LL Cool J recurs as Sam Hanna.
“Spill the Tea” Plot: When a high-value bioweapons expert is murdered in a secure facility on Hawai’i, NCIS and the NCIS Elite team join forces to track down the killer and discover an even deadlier threat, on part one of the third (and final) season finale.
The world’s most successful television series continues on the seductive shores of the Aloha State with NCIS: Hawai’i, where the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor, Jane Tennant, has thrived and risen through the ranks by equal parts confidence and strategy in a system that has pushed back on her every step of the way. Together with her unwavering team of specialists, they balance duty to family and country while investigating high-stakes crimes involving military personnel, national security, and the mysteries of the sun-drenched island paradise itself.
Disney’s minute and a half Mufasa: The Lion King teaser trailer opens with Rafiki announcing, “A lion was born without a drop of nobility in his blood. A lion who would change our lives forever – Mufasa.” After dozens of stunning clips of action scenes, the teaser ends with Rafiki telling Mufasa that destiny awaits him.
Three-time Tony winner and two-time Oscar nominee Lin Manuel Miranda (Hamilton, Moana, Encanto) is writing new songs for the film, produced by Miranda and Mark Mancina. Lebo M is providing additional music and performing.
“Elton John. Tim Rice. Hans Zimmer. Lebo M. Mark Mancina. Beyoncé, Labrinth, Ilya Salmanzadeh. Beau Black, Ford Riley, the incredible music team on The Lion Guard, and so many musical contributors over the years. The Lion King has an incredible musical legacy with music from some of the greatest songwriters around, and I’m humbled and proud to be a part of it,” said Manuel. “It’s been a joy working alongside Barry Jenkins to bring Mufasa’s story to life, and we can’t wait for audiences to experience this film in theaters.
The teaser arrived along with a gorgeous poster and new stills from the December 20, 2024 theatrical release. Disney also confirmed the cast and characters they’re voicing.
• Aaron Pierre as Mufasa
• Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka, a lion prince with a bright future who accepts Mufasa into his family as a brother
• Tiffany Boone as Sarabi
• Kagiso Lediga as Young Rafiki
• Preston Nyman as Zazu
• Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, a formidable lion with big plans for his pride
• Thandiwe Newton as Taka’s mother, Eshe
• Lennie James as Taka’s father, Obasi
• Anika Noni Rose as Mufasa’s mother, Afia
• Keith David as Mufasa’s father, Masego
• John Kani as Rafiki
• Seth Rogen as Pumbaa
• Billy Eichner as Timon
• Donald Glover as Simba
• Introducing Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, daughter of King Simba and Queen Nala
• And Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala
The film also features Braelyn Rankins, Theo Somolu, Folake Olowofoyeku, Joanna Jones, Thuso Mbedu, Sheila Atim, Abdul Salis, and Dominique Jennings.
Oscar winner Barry Jenkins (Moonlight) directs the new installment of The Lion King franchise which is brought to life by blending live-action filmmaking techniques with photoreal computer-generated imagery. Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak produce, and Peter Tobyansen serves as executive producer.
“Mufasa: The Lion King enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka—the heir to a royal bloodline,” reads Disney’s synopsis. “The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny—their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.”
After a two year break, Bridgerton finally returns to Netflix for a third season on May 16, 2024. Granted, fans will only be able to binge the first four episodes of the season in May. But it’s only a month-long wait until the final four season three episodes debut on June 13th.
Netflix’s May lineup of new series and films includes David E. Kelley’s limited series A Man in Full starring Jeff Daniels. The two-time Emmy winner plays a real estate tycoon whose shady business dealings put his empire in jeopardy. Bodkin debuts on May 9th and stars Will Forte as a true crime podcaster who travels to small Irish town to investigate the disappearance of three strangers.
It’s up to Jennifer Lawrence to try and save the world in Atlas (May 24), and Jerry Seinfeld dives into the world of breakfast pastries with the comedy movie Unfrosted (May 3). Netflix’s May schedule also includes the debut of new comedy specials from John Mulvaney and Katt Williams.
Netflix May 2024 Highlights
May 1, 2024
Deaw Special: Super Soft Power – COMEDY
From an all-star soccer game to awkward dating problems, Thai comic Udom Taephanich shares candid stories from his chaotic life.
Down The Rabbit Hole – FILM
Raised in opulence and culture, 10-year-old Tochtli’s lavish life contrasts with the darkness that seeps in from his father’s criminal activities.
Frankly Speaking – SERIES
A well-respected announcer suddenly loses his ability to self-censor on air, catching the attention of a TV writer who invites him on her variety show.
Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar – SERIES
The scheming Mallikajaan rules over an elite house of courtesans — but a new rival threatens her reign as rebellion brews in British-ruled India.
Airport
Airport ’77
Airport 1975
The Best Man Holiday
Blended
Blue Mountain State Seasons 1-3
Blue Mountain State: The Rise of Thadland
Eat Pray Love
The Edge of Seventeen
The Equalizer
The Gentlemen
Hellboy (2019)
Hulk
Jumanji (1995)
Liar Liar
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
The Matrix Resurrections
Mortal Kombat (2021)
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
The Nutty Professor
The Nutty Professor II: The Klumps
Outlander: Season 6
Patriots Day
Public Enemies
Ride Along
Shrek
Shrek Forever After
Starship Troopers
Traffic
The Wedding Planner
White House Down
Woody Woodpecker
The Young Victoria
Poster for Netflix’s ‘A Man in Full’
May 2, 2024
A Man in Full – SERIES
Facing relentless foes and sudden bankruptcy, an Atlanta real estate tycoon must claw his way back to the top when his empire begins to crumble.
Beautiful Rebel – FILM
The origin story of one of Italy’s greatest rock stars, Gianna Nannini, who chased her dream despite obstacles from her family and the music industry.
Secrets of the Neanderthals – DOCUMENTARY SECRETS OF THE NEANDERTHALS take viewers on a journey from their preconceptions of Neanderthals as a dim-witted creature to a complex and creative people, through the lens of a unique, ongoing excavation and a landmark new discovery – the best preserved Neanderthal skeleton found in over a quarter century.
T・P BON – ANIME
After Bon accidentally intervenes in a Time Patrol case, he must join Agent Ream in saving innocent lives from the past — while watching history unfold.
May 3, 2024
John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s In L.A – NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIAL (LIVE EVENT)
In six live installments, John Mulaney explores Los Angeles during a week when pretty much every single funny person is in town.
Postcards – SERIES
When a Nigerian single mother travels to India for a medical checkup, her journey will end up touching the lives of everyone she meets.
Selling the OC: Season 3 – SERIES
The ambitious agents at The Oppenheim Group attempt to up their real estate game as more personal drama interferes with major professional endeavors.
The Unbroken Voice: Season 2 – SERIES
As her career takes off, Arelys struggles to balance her music and her family life as dangerous new foes threaten to destroy everything.
Unfrosted – FILM
In a time when milk and cereal ruled breakfast, a fierce corporate battle begins over a revolutionary new pastry. A Pop-Tart comedy from Jerry Seinfeld.
May 4, 2024
The Atypical Family – SERIES
Blessed with superpowers, a man and his family begin to lose their abilities under the weight of the world — until a mysterious woman changes everything.
Katt Williams: Woke Foke – NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIAL (LIVE EVENT)
Comedian Katt Williams lets loose in real time as he hits the stage on May 4 for Netflix’s second livestreamed stand-up event.
May 5, 2024
Roast of Tom Brady – NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIAL (LIVE EVENT)
Tom Brady will take the hits when sports and comedy stars team up to roast the greatest NFL quarterback of all time.
May 6, 2024
30 for 30: Broke 30 for 30: Deion’s Double Play 30 for 30: The Two Escobars
May 7, 2024
Super Rich in Korea – SERIES
Singaporean tycoons, Italian luxury brand heirs, and Pakistani nobles. Explore the lavish lives of multibillionaires living in Korea, and why they came.
May 8, 2024
The Final: Attack on Wembley – DOCUMENTARY
With England finally in contention for a major championship, 6,000 ticketless football fans storm Wembley Stadium, leaving destruction in their wake.
Bodkin – SERIES
In this darkly comedic thriller, a crew of podcasters sets out to investigate the mysterious disappearance of three strangers in an idyllic Irish town.
The Guardian of the Monarchs – NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
The forests of Michoacán are home to millions of monarch butterflies. Activist Homero Gómez was highly vocal about its preservation – and then he vanished.
Mother of The Bride – FILM
In this breezy rom-com, a tropical island wedding teeters on the brink of disaster after the mother of the bride discovers the groom’s father is her ex.
Thank You, Next – SERIES
After a painful breakup, a young lawyer sets out to find true love in the confusing world of modern dating with the support of her best friends.
May 10, 2024
Blood of Zeus: Season 2 – ANIME
To escape the Underworld forever, Hades crafts a plan to claim Zeus’s crown for himself and reunite with his beloved Persephone as ruler of Olympus.
Cooking Up Murder: Uncovering the Story of César Román – DOCUMENTARY
This docuseries analyzes a murder case implicating a Spanish chef, who built a career in the spotlight through a web of secrets and false identities.
Living with Leopards – NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
A film crew follows two leopard cubs as they make the fascinating journey from infancy into adulthood in this up-close-and-personal nature documentary.
Pokémon Horizons: The Series Part 2 – FAMILY
The Rising Volt Tacklers continue their daring quest to find the black Rayquaza, with Liko and Roy upping their skills at every twist and turn!
The Ultimatum: South Africa – SERIES
A six-way partner-swap sparks wild attractions and tearful betrayals. Participants choose whom to love and leave in this heart-pounding experiment.
May 11, 2024
Mark Twain Prize Award: Kevin Hart – NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIAL
Comedy’s biggest stars gather to honor — and roast — Kevin Hart as he accepts the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in a heartfelt, hilarious ceremony.
May 13, 2024
Princess Power: Season 3 – FAMILY
After their coronation, the princesses have a new challenge: getting accepted to the Princess Adventure Academy! But first they must complete six quests.
May 15, 2024
Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies & Scandal – DOCUMENTARY
When a dating site for people seeking adulterous affairs is hacked, millions of users’ intimate data is exposed, wrecking marriages and destroying lives.
May 16, 2024
Bridgerton: Season 3 Part 1 – SERIES
As a new crop of debutantes yearns to become the brightest of the ball, a wallflower with a double life finds her light amid secrets and surprises.
Maestro in Blue: Season 2 – SERIES
The consequences of a murder soon spread from the island of Paxos to Athens, forcing everyone to face their secrets and seek the truth — or hide it.
May 17, 2024
The 8 Show – SERIES
Eight individuals trapped in a mysterious 8-story building participate in an irresistible but brutal show where they earn money as time passes.
Power – DOCUMENTARY
Driven to contain threats to social order, American policing has exploded in scope and scale over hundreds of years. Now, it can be described by one word: power.
Thelma the Unicorn – FAMILY
A singing pony who dreams of stardom finds instant fame when she transforms into a sparkly unicorn — but becoming a celebrity is one wild ride.
May 19, 2024
Golden Kamuy – FILM
On the Hokkaido frontier, a war veteran and Ainu girl race against misfits and military renegades to find treasure mapped out on tattooed outlaws.
May 20, 2024
The Parisian Agency: Exclusive Properties: Season 4 – SERIES
In a globe-trotting season spanning four continents, the international success of the family business gives the Kretzes a taste for travel and adventure.
May 21, 2024
Rachel Feinstein: Big Guy – COMEDY
From her firefighter husband’s unflattering pet name to her mom’s aggressive accessorizing, Rachel Feinstein lets loose in this stand-up comedy special.
May 22, 2024
Toughest Forces on Earth – SERIES
This docu-series surveys military combat forces across the world to see how they train for dangerous missions using specialized equipment.
May 23, 2024
El vendedor de ilusiones: El caso Generación Zoe – DOCUMENTARY
This documentary follows the rise and fall of Generation Zoe, a spiritual coaching network hiding the most unusual scam in Argentina’s history.
Franco Escamilla: Ladies’ Man – COMEDY
Franco Escamilla takes the stage with tales of teenage romance gone wrong, featuring painfully long kisses and rockstar cameos with surprising outcomes.
Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf – ANIME
On the run from a past crime, Juzo Fujimaki is blackmailed into joining an illicit tournament and has to face top martial artists in deadly match-ups.
In Good Hands 2 – FILM
A newly reunited father and son grapple with new beginnings after tragedy, but can they manage to fill the void left by a beloved mother and wife?
Tires – SERIES
At his father’s auto shop, a hapless manager strives to improve customer service and drive profits while keeping his troublemaking cousin in line.
Atlas – FILM
A brilliant but misanthropic data analyst (Jennifer Lopez) with a deep distrust of AI finds it may be her only hope when a mission to capture a renegade robot goes awry.
Jurassic World: Chaos Theory – FAMILY
The Camp Cretaceous gang comes together to unravel a mystery when they discover a global conspiracy that brings danger to dinosaurs — and to themselves.
Mulligan: Part 2 – SERIES
Mulligan and his cabinet work together to keep what’s left of America afloat while battling cruise ships, power outages and their own incompetence.
My Oni Girl – FILM
A shy teenage boy’s inability to say no is tested when a headstrong girl drags him on a mystical journey amid summer snow to find her missing mom.
May 29, 2024
Bionic – FILM
In a dystopian future where robotic prosthetics redefine sports, two sisters compete in long jump — but their rivalry leads them down a sinister path.
Colors of Evil: Red – FILM
A chilling murder at a Tri-City beach exposes a criminal underworld, testing the courage of a prosecutor and a grieving mother seeking answers.
Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult – DOCUMENTARY
A group of prominent TikTok dancers are trapped in a cult masquerading as a management company called 7M. Among them is Miranda Wilking, whose family is desperately trying to get their daughter out. As other dancers and former members escape and work to rebuild their lives, it isn’t until they come together to try and put a stop to the cycle of their abuser that the real healing begins. This three part documentary series from director Derek Doneen, Dirty Robber and WV Alternative exposes the diabolical tactics used by cult-like organizations to exert control over people as well as the lengths families will go to keep their loved ones safe.
May 30, 2024
Eric – SERIES
A desperate father, alongside a tenacious cop, battles his own demons on the streets of 1980s New York as he searches for his missing nine-year-old son.
Geek Girl – SERIES
Awkward teen Harriet has always wanted to fit in. Until she gets scouted by a top London model agent and learns that some people are meant to stand out.
May 31, 2024
A Part of You – FILM
A teenager struggles to pick up the pieces of her shattered world in this emotional and bittersweet coming-of-age drama about those who are left behind.
How to Ruin Love: The Proposal – SERIES
Suspecting infidelity, love-cynic Zoleka follows her boyfriend to Cape Town, only to ruin her own surprise proposal. Now, she must win him back.
Raising Voices – SERIES
When a 17-year-old reports a sexual assault at her high school, an investigation upends her life and tests her relationships.
Tòkunbọ̀ – FILM
Tokunbo, an ex-car smuggler, is on a dangerous mission to save his family by delivering a government official’s daughter to her captors.
