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from the
editor’s desk Hello Readers, we hope that our letter finds you well. Let’s catch up. We want to hear from you. Feel free to email us at info@bsmandmedia.com. In the meantime, we’re sure you will enjoy our latest issue. It’s a fun one dedicated to all things Emmys. We’re feeling especially grateful for the chance to be a sponsor at the Primetime Emmys gifting lounge in Los Angeles this month. It also coincided with the soft launch of our new tea brand in Hollywood. We have put in a lot of effort to bring this project to fruition, and what better time to debut it than during Emmys week. We can’t wait to share it all with you! We’re giving flowers to Angela Bassett, who won her first Emmy, sharing BTS from the Primetime Emmys Gifting Lounge, and film, television, and theater actress and cabaret singer Dionne Lea, wife of actor Keith David (Greenleaf) shows us fashion and good times at the awards show. We’re also checking on previous Emmynominated actors and What Are They Doing Now. You’ll have to peek inside to see which star we’re talking about. And we’re featuring a pheromonal entrepreneur whose business, created during the pandemic, 4 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM
made it to the Emmys. We are giving a special thank you to Phyllis Bailey, Nicole MerrittLester, Karen Jones, LaRosha Paul, Khayla Biscoe, Takisha Anderson, and E&E Tea Co. Stay tuned for our official tea launch! And much more from BSM Magazine. Hello, fall! Best regards, La Trisha McIntosh
and La Tasha Taylor
BEAUTIFULLY SAID MAGAZINE Vol. 2 Issue 18 PUBLISHER BSM MEDIA GROUP GROUP EDITORS-IN-CHIEF LA TRISHA MCINTOSH LA TASHA TAYLOR GROUP EDITOR BSM TEAM SENIOR WRITERS LA TRISHA MCINTOSH LA TASHA TAYLOR STAFF WRITERS BSM TEAM CONTRIBUTING WRITERS BSM TEAM ADMINISTRATION BSM TEAM CREATIVE DESIGNERS BSM Media Group LLC Khayla Biscoe PHOTOGRAPHERS Various (Credit inside the issue) MARKETING EXECUTIVES BSM MARKETING TEAM CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION BSMANDMEDIA.COM SPONSERS B U Candles Two Chicks Sweet Treats
Special thanks to: Nicole Merritt-Lester CEO, Empyrean PR & Media Group. LLC. VP, Leneer Data Assurance Solutions, Inc. Phyllis Bailey phyllis@prconsultingfirm.com
Photo features actor Richard Lawson(L) and comedian Michael Colyar(C). Photo Credit: ColdeaProductions-CMA-Ent-Group)
THE ‘ORIGINAL’ TWINS OF MEDIA DIGITAL, PRINT, AND BSM NETWORK. CULTURE: CELEBRITY NEWS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND LIFESTYLE TRENDS
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BTS EMMYS
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76TH EMMY AWARD WINNERS
table of contents
18 EMMYS BEST DRESSED LIST 20 EMMYS RED CARPET BEAUTY 22 JELLY ROLL
Photo Credit: Getty Images
24 SANAA LATHAN 26 CELEBRITY COUPLES AT THE EMMYS 28 COVER STORY: ANGELA BASSETT
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32 SURGE EVENT RECAP 34 NEW SEASON 42 PRIMETIME EMMYS GIFTING LOUNGE 44 MITCHELL MARCHAND 48 MEET NICOLE MERITT-LESTER
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22 28 COVER STORY
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EMMYS BTS
F
ilm, television and theater actress, Dionne Lea described her time at this year’s Emmys as “Exhilarating!” The cabaret singer added, I’ve been to the Emmy Awards with my husband, actor Keith David (Greenleaf), but this year was a gamechanger; I took our eldest daughter, MaeLea as my date! It was her very first Emmys experience and let’s say she was living her best life, taking in all the glitz and glamour like a pro. 6 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM
DIONNE LEA: @IAM_ADRIANAGOWN @MNMCOUTURE_JEWELRY @XIVKARATSSHOES @JIMMYCHOOHAIR @VERI_U_NIQUELY_STYLED MAKEUP @MERCGLOW MAELEA:DRESS @HOUSEOFCB SHOES @AMINAHJILLILMAKEUP @MERCGLOWHAIR @VERI_U_NIQUELY_STYLED STYLIST @JONETTEJORDAN Photo Courtesy The J 2 Group BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 7
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76TH
EMMY AWARD WINNERS
The Emmy winners in 2024 include "Hacks" for best comedy series and "Shogun" for best drama series. "Baby Reindeer" won best limited or anthology series, while "The BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 9 Bear" secured multiple awards.
THE LIST OF EMMY WINNERS IN 2024
2. LEAD ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES •Jennifer Aniston, “The Morning Show” •Carrie Coon, “The Gilded Age” •Maya Erskine, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” •Anna Sawai, “Shogun” (Winner) •Imelda Staunton, “The Crown” •Reese Witherspoon, “The Morning Show”
4. SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA
•Christine Baranski, “The Gilded Age” •Nicole Beharie, “The Morning Show” •Elizabeth Debicki, “The Crown” (Winne •Greta Lee, “The Morning Show” •Lesley Manville, “The Crown” •Karen Pittman, “The Morning Show” •Holland Taylor, “The Morning Show”
3. LEAD ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES •Idris Elba, “Hijack” •Donald Glover, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” •Walton Goggins, “Fallout” •Gary Oldman, “Slow Horses” •Hiroyuki Sanada, “Shogun” (Winner) •Dominic West, “The Crown”
1. DRAMA SERIES •“The Crown” •“Fallout” •“The Gilded Age” •“The Morning Show” •“Mr. & Mrs. Smith” •“Shogun” (Winner) •“Slow Horses” •“3 Body Problem” 13. LEAD ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOVIE •Matt Bomer, “Fellow Travelers” •Richard Gadd, “Baby Reindeer” (Winner) •Jon Hamm, “Fargo” •Tom Hollander, “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans” •Andrew Scott, “Ripley” 12. LEAD ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOVIE •Jodie Foster, “True Detective: Night Country” (Winner) •Brie Larson, “Lessons in Chemistry” •Juno Temple, “Fargo” •Sofia Vergara, “Griselda” •Naomi Watts, “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans”
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11. LIMITED SERIES •“Baby Reindeer” (Winner) •“Fargo” •“Lessons in Chemistry” •“Ripley” •“True Detective: Night Country”
8. LEAD ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
A SERIES
er)
6. COMEDY SERIES •“Abbott Elementary” •“The Bear” •“Curb Your Enthusiasm” •“Hacks” (Winner) •“Only Murders in the Building” •“Palm Royale” •“Reservation Dogs” •“What We Do in the Shadows”
•Matt Berry, “What We Do in the Shadows” •Larry David, “Curb Your Enthusiasm” •Steve Martin, “Only Murders in the Building” •Martin Short, “Only Murders in the Building” •Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear” (Winner) •D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, “Reservation Dogs”
7. LEAD ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES
5. SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A DRAMA •Tadanobu Asano, “Shogun” •Billy Crudup, “The Morning Show” (Winner) •Mark Duplass, “The Morning Show” •Jon Hamm, “The Morning Show” •Takehiro Hira, “Shogun” •Jack Lowden, “Slow Horses” •Jonathan Pryce, “The Crown”
•Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary” •Ayo Edebiri, “The Bear” •Selena Gomez, “Only Murders in the Building” •Maya Rudolph, “Loot” •Jean Smart, “Hacks” (Winner) •Kristen Wiig, “Palm Royale”
9. SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES •Lionel Boyce, “The Bear” •Paul W. Downs, “Hacks” •Ebon Moss-Bachrach, “The Bear” (Winner) •Paul Rudd, “Only Murders in the Building” •Tyler James Williams, “Abbott Elementary” •Bowen Yang, “Saturday Night Live”
10. SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY •Carol Burnett, “Palm Royale” •Liza Colón-Zayas, “The Bear” (Winner) •Hannah Einbinder, “Hacks” •Janelle James, “Abbott Elementary” •Sheryl Lee Ralph, “Abbott Elementary” •Meryl Streep, “Only Murders in the Building”
BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 11
THE LIST OF EMMY WINNERS IN 2024
15. SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE •Jonathan Bailey, “Fellow Travelers” •Robert Downey Jr., “The Sympathizer” •Tom Goodman-Hill, “Baby Reindeer” •John Hawkes, “True Detective: Night Country” •Lamorne Morris, “Fargo” (Winner) •Lewis Pullman, “Lessons in Chemistry” •Treat Williams, “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans”
17. RE •“The •“RuP •“Top •“The •“The
16. TALK SERIES •“The Daily Show” (Winner) •“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” •“Late Night With Seth Meyers” •“The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” 14. SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR •Dakota Fanning, “Ripley” •Lily Gladstone, “Under the Bridge” •Jessica Gunning, “Baby Reindeer” (Winner) •Aja Naomi King, “Lessons in Chemistry” •Diane Lane, “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans” •Nava Mau, “Baby Reindeer” •Kali Reis, “True Detective: Night Country” 25. WRITING FOR A DRAMA SERIES •Peter Morgan and Meriel Sheibani-Clare, “The Crown” •Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner, “Fallout” •Francesca Sloane and Donald Glover, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” •Rachel Kondo and Caillin Puente, “Shōgun” •Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks, “Shōgun” •Will Smith, “Slow Horses” (Winner) 26. WRITING FOR A COMEDY SERIES •Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary” •Meredith Scardino and Sam Means, “Girls5eva” •Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky for “Hacks” (Winner) •Christopher Storer and Joanna Calo, 'The Bear" •Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider, “The Other Two” •Jake Bender and Zach Dunn, “What We Do in the Shadows”
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24. DIRECTING F •Weronika Tofils •Noah Hawley, “F •Gus Van Sant, “F •Millicent Shelto •Steven Zaillian, •Issa López, “True
19. WRITING FOR A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY •Richard Gadd, “Baby Reindeer” (Winner) •Charlie Brooker, “Black Mirror” •Noah Hawley, “Fargo” •Ron Nyswaner, “Fellow Travelers” •Steven Zaillian, “Ripley” •Issa López, “True Detective: Night Country”
EALITY-COMPETITION SHOW e Amazing Race” Paul’s Drag Race” p Chef” e Traitors” (Winner) e Voice” 18. LIVE VARIETY SPECIAL •“66th Grammy Awards” •“76th Annual Tony Awards” •“The Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show Starring Usher” •“The Greatest Roast of All Time: Tom Brady” •“The Oscars” (Winner)
FOR A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES ka, “Baby Reindeer” Fargo” Feud: Capote vs. the Swans” on, “Lessons in Chemistry” “Ripley” (Winner) e Detective: Night Country”
20. GAME SHOW •“Celebrity Family Feud” •“Jeopardy!” (Winner) •“Password” •“The Price Is Right at Night” •“Wheel of Fortune”
21. SCRIPTED VARIETY SERIES •“Last Week Tonight With John Oliver” (Winner) •“Saturday Night Live” •The Daily Show”
23. DIRECTING FOR A COMEDY SERIES •Randall Einhorn, “Abbott Elementary” •Christopher Storer, “The Bear” (Winner) •Ramy Youssef, “The Bear” •Guy Ritchie, “The Gentlemen” •Lucia Aniello, “Hacks” •Mary Lou Belli, “The Ms. Pat Show”
22. DIRECTING FOR A DRAMA SERIES •Stephen Daldry, “The Crown” •Mimi Leder, “The Morning Show” •Hiro Murai, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” •Frederick E.O. Toye, “Shogun” (Winner) •Saul Metzstein, “Slow Horses” •Salli Richardson-Whitfield, “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty”
BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 13
76TH
14 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM PHOTO CREDIT: WWW.PEACOCKTHEATER.COM
EMMY AWARDS
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THE 76TH EMMYS
best Dressed List
Red is the color for fall 2024. Actresses Sophia Vergara, Anna Sawai, and Janelle James certainly got the fashion memo when they showed up on the red carpet in rouge hues. Photo Credit: Gilbert Flores/ Michael Buckner
Anna Sawai Emmy-winner Sawai, who won Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Shōgun, wore a strapless scarlet gown by Vera Wang. She accessorized the sweetheart neckline and tiered skirt with Diamond-encrusted Cartier jewelry and Jimmy Choo heels.
Janelle James Emmy-nominated actress James (Principal Ava Coleman) on the hit ABC “Abbott Elementary” dazzled in a ruffled one-shoulder gown by Marchesa and finished the look in a pair of black Jimmy Choo sandals.
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Sofia Vergara “Griselda” star Vergara arrived in a sultry strapless gown by Dolce & Gabbana—her earrings and rings by Lorraine Schwartz.
Quinta Brunson
Multi-hyphenate Brunson, whose show Abbott Elementary received nine nominations, arrived at the awards ceremony wearing a liquidy iridescent mermaid gown by Georges Chakra.
Mindy Kaling Khaling was seen wearing a Gaurav Gupta black glacierembroidered sculpted gown.
Quinta Brunson, Selena Gomez, Mindy Kaling, and Sheryl Lee Ralph prove you can never go wrong in black. Photo Credit: Frazer Harrison / Amy Sussman / Getty Images
Selena Gomez Gomez's halter dress look by Ralph Lauren featured a train on the back and a crystal-decked neckline
Sheryl Lee Ralph Ralph looked elegant in a black, custom halter neckline Versace gown that she accessorized with Cartier jewelry.
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THE 76TH EMMYS
RED CARPET BEAUTY
PHOTO CREDIT: FRAZER HARRISON/GETTY
PHOTO CREDIT: FRAZER HARRISON/GETTY
The Emmys 2024 red carpet showcased a variety of beauty inspirations. Greta Lee's ethereal glow was created by Nina Park using Guerlain products, while Quinta Brunson's smoky eye and glossy nude lip were crafted by Alexander Armand with Maui Moisture. Selena Gomez opted for a winged smoky eye, styled by Marissa Marino, and Laverne Cox stunned with a cherry mocha lip paired with red eyeshadow. Ayo Edebiri's modern take on '70s waves and cool makeup was the work of Ernesto Casillas using Charlotte Tilbury products. At the Emmy Awards, Quinta Brunson stole the spotlight with her hairdo, a chic, shortcut reminiscent of Betty Boop's iconic style. Selena Gomez opted for a polished, straight hairstyle that perfectly complemented her ensemble. Explore additional beauty inspiration through BSM Magazine. @bsm_mag
20 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM
PHOTO CREDIT: GILBERT FLORES/GETTY IMAGES; MICHAEL BUCKNER/GETTY IMAGES
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Get the Look Celebrity hairstylist Alexander Armand used prdoucts from Maui moisture such as the Maui moisture Flexible Hold Coconut Milk Curl Foam Mousse ($11) and styling tools from Olivia Garden's line including the SuperHP High Performance Professional Hair Dryer ($300) to create Actress Quinta Brunson's "Old hollywood" inspired glam for the Emmys red carpet.
BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 21 PHOTO CREDIT: GILBERT FLORES/GETTY IMAGES; MICHAEL BUCKNER/GETTY IMAGES
22 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMGES
Jelly Roll An award show would be incomplete without the touching music that compels us to pause and pay tribute to the actors, writers, directors, executives, and other luminaries we have lost in the preceding year. Jelly Roll delivered a poignant performance during the Emmys 2024 In Memoriam segment, providing a moving soundtrack with his rendition of “I Am Not Okay”. “I believe that music is therapeutic. I believe that music can heal. I also believe that storytelling is just as cathartic,” Jelly Roll stated before his performance. “I hope that this song can act as a healing moment for those mourning the storytellers we have lost this year. If you are feeling lost or alone tonight, I want you to know that it’s OK to not always be OK.”” Watch Jelly Roll's Full performance here
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PHOTO COURTESY: HULU
SANAA LATHAN
By La Tasha T.
R
emember the 90s television family sitcom In the House that starred LL Cool J? It’s where, in 1996 in an episode, Lathan landed her first credited role as an actress. From there, she would “secure guest spots on hit shows like Moesha and Family Matters before landing her first big studio film Blade, acting opposite Wesley Snipes.” PHOTO CREDIT: JOHN NACION/FILMMAGIC
24 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM
Lathan’s
career
took
off from there with memorable roles in The Best Man franchise, Brown Sugar, Out of Time, Alien vs. Predator (a big box office success and lead role for Lathan), and Nappily Ever After, which she also served as producer. Of course, there’s a slew of other small and big screen credits, voiceover work (The Cleveland Show), and Broadway runs (Raisin in the Sun). Still, no one can argue that the New York City-born-native is
best known for her role as Monica Wright in the 2000 film Love & Basketball opposite Omar Epps. Twenty-six years after Lathan’s first small screen debut, she was nominated for her first Emmy for her guest role on HBO’s Succession in the category of Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series in 2022. Though she didn’t take home the win, Lathan’s career has remained steady, including
HBO’s Succession Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series 2022
Previously Nominated Actresses and what Are they Doing Now
PHOTO CREDIT: DANA HAWLEY/DANA HAWLEY - © BIGEARL’S PRODUCTION, LLC
her latest work in the 2024 Hulu Original film The Supremes at Earl’s All-YouCan-Eat that stars Lathan, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor and Uzo Aduba along with male powerhouse supporting actors, Mekhi Phifer, Vondie CurtisHall and Russel Hornsby. Her character, Barbara Jean, the young version played by Tati Gabrielle, and as an adult, Lathan, is the story of “Three best friends who call themselves ‘The Supremes’ have
experienced life together through the good and bad and are now finding their friendship tested.” Lathan, much like her character, dealt with addiction to band-aid trauma, whether it be generational or because life be lifing. The actress has spoken on the subject of addiction in recent talk show interviews and podcasts. “There was a period in my life where I was using alcohol as a self-
medication,” says the star citing multiple reasons she turned to alcohol, as well as the multiple reasons she decided to stop drinking in 2018, revealing it was “dimming” her energy.
decades-plus career.
Perhaps it’s primetime that a brightly, more energetic Sanaa Lathan, who also celebrates a birthday this month, is recognized for another Emmy nomination next year. Nonetheless, we’ll continue to watch her work and celebrate her
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CELEBRITY COUPLES SHINE AT THE 2024 EMMY AWARDS The 2024 Emmy Awards were not just a celebration of television's finest but also a showcase of love and partnership. From the sweet PDA between Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco to the affectionate exchanges between Naomi Watts and Billy Crudup, the event was brimming with heartwarming moments. These couples, along with others like Idris Elba and Sabrina Elba, Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey, Viola Davis, and Julius Tennon illuminated the evening with their love, proving that the Emmys are the perfect date night for Hollywood's beloved duos.
01
02
Rita Ora and Taika Waititi
03
Billy Crudup and Naomi Watts
Viola Davis and Julius Tennon
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04
Idris Elba and Sabrina Elba
07
Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey
05
Jimmy Kimmel and Molly McNearney
06
Jazmyn Simon and Dulé Hill
08
Don Johnson and Kelley Phleger
09
Carson Daly and Siri Pinter
10
Liza Colón-Zayas and David Zayas BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 27 PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
COVER STORY
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PHOTO CREDIT: : @DANDREMICHAEL
A Angela
EMMY NOMINATION NUMBER NINE. ONE (WIN) RIGHT ON TIME. ANGELA BASSETT IS A JEWEL OF AN ACTRESS, AND THIS AWARD IS LONG OVERDUE, BUT IF YOU ARE LIKE HER, THE STANDOUT PERFORMER, THEN YOU KNOW TO THINE SELF BE TRUE.
By Twins of Media
BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 29
“Wow. My First Emmy!” These are the first words Angela Basset said when accepting her award. Let’s back up a moment—an honorary Oscar in January and now an Emmy in the same year. Who’s yelling so the people in the back can hear? “Long overdue!” Come on, we’re talking about Angela Evelyn Bassett, who was born in New York City. The body of work she has brilliantly amassed since she first came onto the scene in the 1980s is too much to pour onto this page without it spilling over. If every award were a person, then it would be Angela. The Yale University alum studied acting at the Yale School of Drama, receiving a Master of Fine Arts a couple of years before her first New York theater performance in 1985. To us, Bassett is acting royalty. For this crafted performer, she is the young child, raised by her mother in St. Petersburg, Florida, after her parents divorced and after having lived with her father’s sister a little before she was a year old up until she was four─ who says standing on stage to receive a well-deserved accolade, ‘I’m Just a Girl Who Wanted to Act.’ Her win for outstanding narration on National Geographic’s nature documentary “Queens” is meritable. However, let’s not be derelict in thought that nine nominations gathered and Bassett holding that stature should have been captured many noms ago. Her voice is always striking, her eyes dynamic in the many ways resonant with the memorable characters she’s played throughout the years─ Earlier roles in Boyz in the Hood and as Betty Shabazz in Malcolm X. Her unforgettable performance as Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do With It that earned her an Oscar nomination (She won a Golden Globe for the role), and her woman scorned portrayal as Bernadine Harris in Terry 30 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM
ANGELA BASSETT WINS HER FIRST EMMY IN 2024. PHOTO CREDIT: AMY SUSSMAN/GETTY
I'm just a girl who wanted to act! McMillan’s novel to film adaptation “Waiting to Exhale” is just the iceberg to a glacier of decades-long big and small screen achievements. Bassett took a hiatus from FX’s “9-1-1” when she agreed to the “Queens” project. Later work includes the Golden Globe win for her Queenly performance as Ramonda in Black Panther in 2018. She would reprise the role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever four years
later and win a Golden Globe award as Best Supporting Actress. And in and between those roles is a plethora of others valuable of any earned media so long as to give Bassett her flowers. For now, we celebrate a polished jewel in the film and television industry with Bassett's Emmy win. She says of her work in the documentary (Queens), "We don't work for these,
but we receive them for all the hard work that we do." She continued, "Of course, it's not work that you do alone, even though it's for narration. There's a whole team that pursued me and believed in me, fought for me, and worked with me to tell this amazing story of females in the wild kingdom, led by an all-female production team, a first in wildlife documentary filmmaking. So that was pretty inspiring to me in and of itself." Angela, your life on and off camera is inspiring, too. Congratulations on your first-ever Emmy win! Emmy Winner Angela Basset Creative Arts Emmys Outstanding narration on National Geographic’s nature documentary “Queens”
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PRODUCTION TEAM
SURGE EVENT
•@Empyreanpr_LA •@12Dash •@ColdeaProductions •@Cristian.Coldea •@Officialkeithlcraig •@Djlx2000 •@savvydesignservices •@thethankfulrevolution
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34 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM PHOTO CREDIT: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS
New
SEASON WHAT TO EXPECT FROM ABBOTT ELEMENTARY, 9-1-1, FRASIER, AND MANY OTHER FALL SHOWS.
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The fall television lineup is filled with anticipation, especially for shows like "Abbott Elementary," "91-1," and "Frasier." Fans of "Abbott Elementary" can look forward to a season filled with holiday episodes and a mysterious crossover event that could change television as we know
it. Meanwhile, "9-1-1" is set to return with its eighth season, promising an early fall release and a teaser hinting at the emergency that will open the season. The "Frasier" reboot is also making a comeback with its second season, featuring a special call-in appearance by legendary
comedian Carol Burnett, as Frasier returns to his radio roots in Seattle for an episode. These shows, among others, are sure to bring a mix of humor, drama, and excitement to viewers this fall.
Abbott Elementary is set to return for its fourth season on October 9 on ABC, followed by the eighth season of 9-1-1 premiering on September 26, also on ABC. Additionally, the second season 2 reboot of Frasier is scheduled for release. Other fan favorites making a comeback include "Chicago Med" on September 25 (NBC), "Chicago Fire" on September 25 (NBC), "Grey's Anatomy" on September 26 (ABC), "Law & Order" on October 3 (NBC), and "NCIS: Origins" on October 14 (CBS). PHOTO CREDIT: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS
PHOTO CREDIT: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS
The fall lineup is buzzing with the new show "Poppa's House" (Oct. 21, CBS), featuring the father-son duo of Damon Wayans Sr. and Jr. Their past collaborations have set the stage for what promises to be compelling television. Damon Wayans Sr., a seasoned veteran of network TV, gained fame with the iconic '90s variety show "In Living Color" and later, "My Wife and Kids," which aired in the early 2000s. "Poppa's House" also stars Essence Atkins, Tetona Jackson, and Geoffrey Owens.
36 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM PHOTO CREDIT: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS
PHOTO CREDIT: MICHAEL YARISH / CBS
PHOTO CREDIT: MICHAEL YARISH / CBS
PHOTO CREDIT: SONJA FLEMMING/CBS
PHOTO CREDIT: MICHAEL YARISH / CBS
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PHOTO CREDIT: HBO
19 EMMY NOMINATIONS
INCLUDING LEAD ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR A MOVIE
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PHOTO CREDIT: NETFLIX
11 EMMY NOMINATIONS
INCLUDING WRITING FOR A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOVIE
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PHOTO CREDIT: FX
23 EMMY NOMINATIONS INCLUDING LEAD ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
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PRIMETIME EMMYS
GIFTING LOUNGE
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LUXE SUNSET BOULEVARD HOTEL
PRODUCTION TEAM
4
•@Empyreanpr_LA •@12Dash •@ColdeaProductions •@Cristian.Coldea •@Officialkeithlcraig •@Djlx2000 •@savvydesignservices •@thethankfulrevolution
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Mitchell Marchand Mitchell (Mitch) Marchand is a two-time Emmynominated writer, with his latest nomination coming in 2024. He is also an actor, comedian, and producer, boasting a career that spans several decades in Hollywood. Marchand’s career can be traced back to the iconic 90s film "Juice," which also marked the acting debut of the late Tupac Shakur. It was in this film that Marchand delivered the memorable line, "You got the Juice now, man," to Omar Epps character, Q. A lesser-known fact is that Marchand, Epps, and comedian Marlon Wayans attended the same high school and have remained best friends in real life.
By Twins of Media Marchand has developed a successful career as an accomplished writer/producer credited with a myriad of popular shows, including, The Wayans Bros, BET Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, Comic View, Hell Date and Coming To The Stage, NAACP Image Awards, Lip Sync Battle/Lip Sync Battle Shorties, MTV's Safe Word and NBC's Marlon Show, competition shows NBC's I Can Do That and TBS' The Funniest Wins, and Kids Say the Darndest Things starring Tiffany Haddish.
Marchand is recognized for his writing contributions to shows such as Marlon, The Upshaws, and, most recently, the 76th Primetime Emmys in Los Angeles. Despite not securing a win at the Emmys, Marchand's determination to persevere in the industry is commendable. He shared this sentiment in a recent Instagram post. "Always an honor to serve on the Emmys writing staff. Each one I’ve done is special for different reasons.This one I was also nominated for one. Didn’t win and full transparency, it kinda sucked for about a half hour but there was no time to suck cause… I still had a job to do. Reflecting on it, this experience was so special because genuinely all the comedy and tv legends made it extra dope. Spending time in rehearsal talking comedy with Steve Martin. 44 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM
PHOTO FACEBOOK PHOTO:CREDIT: FACEBOOK
PHOTO CREDIT: (GROUP PHOTO) PINTEREST
Hanging with Ron Howard and Henry Winkler. Getting to shake the great Martin Sheen’s hand and tell him he’s my favorite TV President and him responding “You’re about to get a new favorite and SHE’s gonna be great.” What can top that?! …just countless moments that I’ll never forget. Plus getting to share it all with @itssonyamarchand The 76th Emmys owes me nothing. Thanks @jessecollinsent @dionnenicoleharmon @jeannaerouclay & @brittanybrazil for having me. Great working with #JohnMacks @rashidasheedz @nefetaris @carolleifer & #JeffStillson. A time was had! #Blessed"
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SURGE By Twins of Media
S
URGE! Electrifies Hollywood Via Luxury Gifting Lounge Experience Celebrating the Emmy Awards Season
Hollywood, CA – Ushering in one of the most monumental nights in television, the Emmys, and at the behest of Hollywood royalty, The CMA Entertainment Group, celebrities, and media were allured into the intriguing event themed Surge! An Electrifying Luxury Gifting Lounge Experience in West Hollywood. The event was hosted during the Emmy award celebration season by esteemed producers Keith L. Craig, Nicole Merritt, and David Ash as they debuted their signature, themed event production—just in time for this season of celebration. Hosted at the luxurious Luxe Hotel on Sunset Blvd., Surge! boasted an overwhelming guest list of local and national media sources, celebrities, influencers, investors, and industry professionals. It was an atmosphere of high-level networking, Latininfluenced fusion food, exotic drink pairings, and sweet treats by The Bayou Chefs. The free-flowing signature drinks, mixed and mastered by Empress Gin, set the vibe,
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which was further curated and enhanced by their resident DJ: DJLX2000. Surge! highlighted rising television stars and producers, many of whom were 2024 Emmy nominated. The red carpets were graced by Richard Lawson, Actor (Beauty in Black on Netflix, premiering October 24th), Newton Mayenge, Actor (Winning Time HBO), Ray Murphy, Jr., Film Producer, Chris Beal, Producer (BelAir), Chico Benymon, Actor/Director, Michael Colyar, Actor/Comedian, Kimberly Stuart, Actress (Churchy BET), Rhonda Morman, Actress (Wicked City on AllBlk), Malika Perkins (Wicked City on AllBlk), Kiki Haynes, Actress (All the Queen’s Men on BET Plus), Shaquite Smith, Actress (Wicked City AllBlk), Desiry Hall, Actress (Marrying Millions), Alonzo Easter, Actor/Model, and Darone Okoile, Actor (CW’s All American). The 7-hour event featured standing-roomonly excitement, a live red carpet by the visual genius of Coldea Productions, and an extensive media row including local and national outlets like Upscale, and BSM Magazine. Surge! was expertly appointed with experiential LED light shows, energizing gifts, and luxurious experiences, featuring: •Opulent skincare by Yves Botanicals
•Custom crystal jewelry and silk affirmation pajamas/loungewear by Faith 2 Felicy •Aura photography by Faith 2 Felicy •Custom florals by Contained Stems •Sound therapy by Free and Flow •Visual artistry by renowned painter Suzanne Pickett The CMA Entertainment Group attributes the success of Surge! to their incredible sponsors: •Title Sponsor: Comprehensive Financial Design Group •Presenting Sponsors: Porter + Craig Film and Media Distribution •Empyrean PR •Worldwide Media •Savvy Designs •Supporting Sponsors: Brilliant Films •The Thankful Revolution •Mortuary Media •Chef Evi •The Nelson Manor •Twinn Teas •Brooklyn Noel •E3 •Queen Momma’s Kitchen •Charitable Partner: Empower Series Recently dubbed the Hollywood Trinity, Craig, Merritt, and Ash announced their next venture: Pulse: A Passionate + Power + Play Experience, set to take place during the Oscar award season at the Luxe Hotel from 5 PM-12 AM on Thursday, March 6, 2025. This event will pay homage to Hollywood’s indie talent and promises to deliver the same energy and innovation as Surge!
PHOTO CREDIT: KAUWUANE BURTON
Craig, Merritt, and Ash met at an awards show years ago and vowed to create a joint venture that would showcase their connection to the industry while giving back to the film community. With Surge! under their belts, they are off to an incredible start.
PHOTO: DAVID ASH, NICOLE MERRITT-LESTER AND KEITH L. CRAIG
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Meet
Nicole Merritt-Lester A true powerhouse in the world of public relations, communications, and beyond. As a lead producer, Nicole recently geared up for her 26th Hollywood production, Surge: An Electrifying Gifting Lounge Experience, for the Primetime Emmy Awards celebration season held in Hollywood, CA., during Emmys week. The multilayered Public Relations Consultant and New Media Strategist keeps her finger on the pulse of media strategy and business development and is like a conductor orchestrating success for established organizations. Whether crafting compelling marketing campaigns, orchestrating attentiongrabbing advertising, or fine-tuning promotional efforts, Nicole's mission is clear: to help organizations and corporations achieve their goals. Her productions create opportunities for unique brand owners, minority and small business owners. A force to be reckoned with, Nicole seamlessly navigates the worlds of national and local media to ensure her clients shine bright.
where she rubbed elbows with public figures, celebrities, and corporate bigwigs. This insider perspective gave her invaluable insights into the entertainment industry and forged strong relationships with key media players. She's a problem-solver extraordinaire, adept at managing the reputations of elected officials and corporate honchos alike, all while keeping the media and the public satisfied. But Nicole's not content with just one hat. As a female multi-business owner, she's diversified her portfolio with ventures in entertainment and investment. Since 2001, she's been wowing clients with her superior customer service and savvy business acumen. From Indigo Soul Promotions to Big Deal Records, Nicole's entrepreneurial spirit knows no bounds. And let's not forget her recent triumph with Ignite! A Fire Gifting Lounge in Santa Monica, California, where she masterfully showcased her gift of event production.
But Nicole's not content with just one hat. As a female multi-business owner, she's diversified her portfolio with ventures in entertainment and investment.
Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and a Masters in New Media Journalism from Full Sail University, Nicole brings over two decades of experience to the table. But her journey doesn't stop there. From her days serving in the Florida State Legislature to her roles in the Georgia General Assembly, Nicole has honed her skills in event production, writing, and analysis. She's been in the trenches as a Campaign manager, Commissioner appointed by the Mayor, and President of various community organizations, proving time and again that she's a powerhouse in the world of communications and public relations. So, what is Nicole’s earliest hallmark achievement? Establishing the Florida Film and Entertainment Office,
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Currently, Nicole is at the helm of strategy consulting for television programming and feature films, having been appointed as the Director of Acquisitions for Porter Craig Film and Media Distribution in Beverly Hills, California. But amidst her busy schedule, she always makes time for philanthropy, championing mental health programs for veterans through the Military Heroes, Meet Heroes Foundation, where she serves as President. What's up next for Nicole Merrit Lester? She’s looking forward to bringing the Surge Gifting Lounge Experience to next year’s Oscars. Stay tuned. @empyreanpr_la
PHOTO CREDIT: FACEBOOK
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September is National Self-Care Awareness Month
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PHOTO CREDIT: LESLY JUAREZ
25 EMMY NOMINATIONS INCLUDING LEAD ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
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24.09.12 - SURGE Event - CMA Entertainment Group DIRECTOR / PRODUCER CRISTIAN Coldeacoldeaphotos.com
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