“I’m simply amazed at my whole life, I had more fun being Eartha Kitt than I think anybody has–being themselves, with whomever they become…” – Eartha Kitt, 2001
Eartha Kitt knew she was Eartha Kitt, a character that was free to speak freely with a body that carried a rebellious movement. Known as “the most interesting woman in the world,” she fully committed herself to living life. Acting, singing, dancing, Miss. Kitt could do it all and then some.. However, at her core, she was a mother, and adopted daughter of “the people” and being herself was her true calling.
Eartha Kitt as Catwoman in ‘Batman’ TV series
Born in South Carolina, she had no sense of foundation as she moved around frequently as an orphan. Kitt tapped into her animal instincts of survival, and the motivation to never being a burden drove her to do whatever she had to do to tap into a larger than life personality. Kitt became popular in the speakeasy scenes in France ( I can see her serenading the crowd). She returned to America and had a unique sparkle that caught the eyes of director and actor Orson Welles, putting Kitt on the map.
Distinct characters that Kitt is permanently known for include Cat Woman on 1960s television show Batman. Audiences were enchanted by tongue rolls and commitment to her feline feature role, make the purrfect* catcall on queue. Kitt is also known for singing the holiday anthem, Santa Baby. She took anything she was given and made it her own, with unmatched sophistication and gusto.
Kitt lived in a mental state of freedom, creating a small riff in her career when she was invited to the White House in the 1960s. She did the impossible, she spoke with no filter to the first lady of the United States and it made “lady bird” clutch her pearls. Before this prestigious luncheon on Capitol Hill, Kitt frequently checked the pulse of the youth around her, violence was up and intense energy surrounded the Vietnam War.
Kitt said exactly what the young men from all different neighborhoods were telling her; why try to be a good samaritan, if the result is being forced into war? It would be easier to commit a crime and be overlooked, than stare at a fate that awaited them on the front lines. It was no coincidence that she couldn’t find work after she exercised her right to freedom of speech. Kitt’s domestic popularity was eventually recharged and she found herself back on stage.
Above all else, Eartha Kitt freed herself, to be her full self. She knew who she was, and who she was not. Kitt lived her life how she wanted, centered and in confidence. Her daughter Kitt Mcdonald explained her mother had a sense of self-awareness that made her the center of attention. Although her life started off orphaned, she made life and the people who encouraged her growth her eternal parents that raised and nourished her talent.
Netflix has unveiled the first-look images of its highly anticipated thriller, ‘Rebel Ridge,’ starring Aaron Pierre. The film is helmed by Jeremy Saulnier, best known for his work on ‘Green Room’ and ‘Hold the Dark.’
Photo: Allyson Riggs/ Netflix
In ‘Rebel Ridge,’ Aaron Pierre takes on the role of Terry Richmond, an ex-Marine who finds himself embroiled in a web of small-town corruption. The film follows Terry as he attempts to post bail for his cousin, only to find himself in a violent standoff with the local police chief. The film promises to be a thrilling and action-packed ride, with a plot that explores themes of corruption, morality, and the lengths one man will go to protect his family.
Photo: Allyson Riggs/ Netflix
The supporting cast of ‘Rebel Ridge’ includes a talented ensemble of actors, including Don Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, David Denman, Emory Cohen, Steve Zissis, Zsané Jhé, Dana Lee, and James Cromwell.
Photo: Allyson Riggs/ Netflix
The production of ‘Rebel Ridge’ was not without its challenges. The film was initially set to star John Boyega, but he left the project mid-shoot due to family reasons. Aaron Pierre was then cast to replace Boyega, and the production resumed with Pierre taking on the lead role. “The very first moment I met with Aaron, the very first moment I read the script, which I read within minutes of it being sent to me, and I finished it in maybe 90 minutes, it was undeniable for me,” Saulnier shared in a statement.
‘Rebel Ridge’ is set to premiere on Netflix on September 6, 2024.
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Joseph Marcell, known for his iconic portrayal of Geoffrey, the butler, is set to join the cast of the hit series Bel-Air in its highly anticipated third season.
The series, which premiered in 2022, offers a dramatic take on the original premise. It follows a young man’s journey from West Philadelphia as he navigates life with his wealthy relatives in the affluent neighborhood of Bel-Air.
The new trailer opens with Will (Jabari Banks) and Carlton (Olly Sholotan) working as waiters at Uncle Phil’s (Adrian Holmes) country club, hinting at a summer job that may lead to more than just serving drinks. Meanwhile, Hilary (Coco Jones) and Jazz (Jordan L. Jones) try to sort through their differences, and Geoffrey (Jimmy Akingbola) deals with some of his old demons from his past in London.
The trailer also teases a mysterious member of the Banks family’s past, played by Marcell.
Joseph Marcell in “Bel-Air” Season 3 (Peacock)
Showrunner Carla Banks-Waddles has shared her enthusiasm for Marcell joining the cast. “Joseph Marcell is a phenomenal actor, and we are thrilled to have him join the Bel-Air family,” she said in a statement. “His presence will add a new layer of depth to the show, and we can’t wait for fans to see what we have in store.”
“It’s an honor to be a part of this new chapter in the Bel-Air story,” In an exclusive interview with Teen Vogue, Marcell shared his thoughts on joining the show, “I’m excited to explore Geoffrey’s character in a different light and to work with such a talented cast and crew.”
Hulu’s ‘UnPrisoned’ returns with a compelling and emotionally charged second season.
Starring Kerry Washington and Delroy Lindo, the show follows the story of Paige (Washington), a successful therapist who reunites with her father, Edwin (Lindo), after his release from a 17-year prison sentence. As they navigate the challenges of rebuilding their relationship, Paige also deals with her struggles, including her career, relationships, and the impact of her father’s incarceration on her own life.
Season 2 of ‘UnPrisoned’ picks up where the first season left off, delving deeper into the emotional journey of the Alexander family. The show continues to explore the complexities of family, forgiveness, second chances, and the lingering impact of past traumas.
Photo: Kelsey McNeal/Disney
In the new episodes, we see Paige and Edwin commit to family therapy sessions led by a quirky and unconventional therapist, played by John Stamos. The meetings are instrumental in helping the characters confront their issues head-on.
It’s important to highlight the show’s ability to balance comedy and drama. Although ‘UnPrisoned’ tackles serious issues, such as the impact of mass incarceration on families and the challenges of reintegration into society, it does so with plenty of humor. For Edwin, while the first season focused on the external challenges of reintegration, season 2 explores his internal struggles and takes us through his and Paige’s arduous but rewarding journey.
Other characters who play a pivotal role in the Alexanders’ path to reconciliation are Mal (Marque Richardson), Paige’s love interest, and Paige’s son, Finn, played by Faly Rakotohavana, and, of course, little Paige, played by the young and talented Jordyn McIntosh.