David Tennant, Billie Piper, Elizabeth Henstridge, Robin Yount Among Top Celebrities Scheduled To Attend Wizard Madison, April 8-10, 2016
Brett Dalton, Billy Boyd, Charles Martinet Also Headline Roster To Date; Talented Comics Creators, Variety of Exhibitors, Cosplayers, Robust Programming At America’s Center
MADISON, Wis. - Wizard World, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD) continues its 2016 schedule with its second trip to the Alliant Energy Center at Wizard World Madison, April 8-10, 2016. “Doctor Who” stars David Tennant and Billie Piper, Brett Dalton and Elizabeth Henstridge (“Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.”) and Baseball Hall of Famer Robin Yount headline the roster of celebrity guests scheduled to attend the pop culture extravaganza, the sixth event on Wizard World's calendar of comic con events in 2016.
Tennant and Yount will attend on Saturday, April 9, 2016, only. Piper, Dalton and Henstridge are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.
Other well-known Wizard World Madison confirmed guests include Billy Boyd (The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World) and Charles Martinet (“Super Mario”). Additional celebrities will be announced in the coming weeks.
Wizard World is also the home of the most creative comics artists and writers on the planet. Artist Alley in Madison will feature Gerhard (“Cerebus”), Phil Ortiz ("The Simpsons," “Muppet Babies”), Tom Cook ("He-Man," "She-Ra"), Clinton Hobart (Disney fine art), Angel Unzueta (“Titans,” “The Flash”), Salvador Larroca (“Avengers vs. X-Men,” “Iron Man”), James O’Barr (“The Crow”), Guy GIlchrist (writer/cartoonist, “Nancy,” “Muppet Babies”), Michael Golden (“Batman,” “Spider-Man”), Mike Baron (“Nexus,” “The Punisher”) and many others.
Wizard World comic and gaming con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, cosplay, comics, television, sci-fi, toys, video gaming, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more. Wizard World Madison show hours are Friday, April 8, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday, April 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Wizard World is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event. Fans dressed as every imaginable character – and some never before dreamed – will roam the convention floor. The famed Wizard World Madison Costume Contest will take place on Saturday night.
For more on the 2016 Wizard World Madison, visit http://wizd.me/MadisonPR .
About Wizard World (OTCBB: WIZD)
Wizard World, Inc. (www.wizardworld.com ) produces comic, gaming and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, television, cosplay, comics, graphic novels, toys, video gaming, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more. A first-class lineup of topical programming takes place at each event, with celebrity Q&A's, comics-themed sessions, costume contests, movie screenings, evening parties and more. Wizard World has also launched Wizard World Store ( www.shopwizardworld.com), CONtv, a digital media channel in partnership with leading independent content distributor Cinedigm™ (NASDAQ: CIDM), and ComicConBox™ ( www.comicconbox.com), a premium subscription-based monthly box service. Fans can interact with Wizard World on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and other social media services.
The Wizard World 2016 schedule is available at: http://wizardworld.com/searchby/city/ .
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Sunday, April 3, 2016
Saturday, April 2, 2016
Moonstone and Radio Archives Announce New Audio Books
MOONSTONE PARTNERS WITH RADIO ARCHIVES TO PRODUCE MOONSTONE AUDIOBOOKS
Moonstone, one of the longest lasting alternative publishers on the comics and new pulp scene, has been producing quality books meant to be read, for almost 20 years. What started out as an avenue for some projects to get published that had a home with a publisher that never got off the ground, the once reluctant little company that could, continues to find new ways to get under-served characters and readers back into the fold.
Moonstone has been the home of many familiar properties like Kolchak the Night stalker, The Avenger, Buckaroo Banzai, Zorro, The Green Hornet, The Phantom, and so many more. It has been the home for many a wayward hero who had not seen the public spotlight as much as they deserved. From comics, to novels, to prose anthologies…everything “from the dark side…to the light”, Moonstone has had the distinct honor to work with some of the top creators in comics and prose, over 1000 storytellers worldwide. We thank them all, as their interest in what we do really fuels the engine.
The relationship between Radio Archives and Moonstone goes back many years, as the two companies have worked together on small projects before. This will be the first all out effort between them. The time is right for audio. It’s a field of specific knowledge and experience, something that only Radio Archives can bring to the table. With all of the niche characters that Moonstone has produced: from TV, to pulps, to radio, there is only one logical home for its audio side of the moon.
“I have been a fan of OTR for many years,” says Moonstone Publisher Joe Gentile, “and the idea of –theater of the mind- has always been an intriguing one. Plus, you toss in a long road trip, where you listen to an audio book…entertaining all, and helping the time go by, and I certainly appreciate what a good audio book can do. It’s another unique way of bringing well told stories to the people.”
“I’m thrilled to be working with Joe Gentile,” says Tom Brown, owner of Radio Archives, LLC. “There are not of lot of Pulp Companies that has been around longer than Radio Archives. Moonstone is one of the few. I became aware of Moonstone about 15 years ago when I saw all these Old Time Radio books that Moonstone was publishing and wondered who Moonstone was”
Tom further said “Audiobooks have been around for 40 years and are just becoming discovered in the last few years. With over a billion Smart Phones that can play audiobooks along with Amazon heavily promoting audiobooks combined with an average 53 minute commute per day is causing the audiobook field to explode. Five years ago only 10% of books had an audiobook version and I believe that number will increase to 90% in the future. Customers now expect a successful publisher to offer an eBook and audiobook version along side their print books.”
“Radio Archives has the reputation for being the leader in high quality restorations of Old Time Radio shows for the last 16 years and we are very proud of the 300 radio sets we have released at www.RadioArchives.com. In 2011, Radio Archives expanded into audiobooks and currently we are releasing 365 audiobooks a year.”
Production on Moonstone's extensive back catalog of books and new books will begin immediately. Moonstone Audiobooks will be available as audio downloads primarily via Amazon, Audible and iTunes.
For more information on Moonstone, visit the website at www.moonstonebooks.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MoonstoneBooks
Discover Radio Archives at www.radioarchives.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/RadioArchivescom/109049645833898
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Dark Horse Announces Its Plans for Emerald City Comicon
Dark Horse Comics Emerald City Comicon 2016 Schedule
MILWAUKIE, OR— Dark Horse Comics is headed to the Pacific Northwest’s foremost and near sold out pop culture convention – Emerald City Comicon.
Visit Dark Horse Comics at ECCC booth #802 for free swag such as comics, buttons, posters, and more. Check out our signings and panels, too.
All attendees are invited to stop by for a free picture in the HappyMatic Photo Booth. We’ll also have a variety of Dark Horse comics, graphic novels, art books, and collectibles for sale in our booth.
SIGNING SCHEDULE
All creators signing in our booth offer their autographs for FREE. FREE prints, comics, or posters are provided for signings (while supplies last). You may purchase or bring items to be signed; however, we may restrict the type or number of items to be signed as necessary. Please note that some of the titles listed below have not been released for sale yet—in those cases, special prints will be available.
Lines may also be closed for some signings due to crowding or time restrictions.
All events are subject to change. Some restrictions apply. Please ask the Dark Horse Comics staff if you have questions.
THURSDAY, APRIL 7
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. SEMIAUTOMAGIC, ARCHIE VS. PREDATOR, GRINDHOUSE, SMOKE/ASHES: Alex de Campi
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. POWER CUBED: Aaron Lopresti
6:00 p.m.–6:45 p.m. DEAR CREATURE, THE NEW DEAL, GREEN RIVER KILLER: Jonathan Case
FRIDAY, APRIL 8
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. THIS DAMNED BAND: Tony Parker
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. THE ROOK: Steven Grant
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. EMPOWERED: Adam Warren
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. SPACE-MULLET!, ALABASTER, THE GHOST FLEET: Daniel Warren Johnson
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m.
NEW SERIES TO BE ANNOUNCED: Chris Mooneyham
PREDATOR: LIFE AND DEATH: Brian Thies
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. JOE GOLEM, ALIENS: FIRE AND STONE: Patric Reynolds
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m.
BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS, MISFITS OF AVALON: Kel McDonald
BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS, THE ADVENTURES OF SUPERHERO GIRL, THE LAST OF US: Faith Erin Hicks
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. HELLBOY AND THE B.P.R.D., ALIENS: FIRE AND STONE: Chris Roberson
6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. TOMB RAIDER: Phillip Sevy
SATURDAY, APRIL 9
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. LARA CROFT AND THE FROZEN OMEN, DEEP GRAVITY: Corinna Bechko
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. FIGHT CLUB 2, B.P.R.D. HELL ON EARTH, SIN TITULO: Cameron Stewart
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. WONDERFALL, LEAVING MEGALOPOLIS, TOMB RAIDER, CONAN RED SONJA: Gail Simone
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. PLANTS VS. ZOMBIES: Jeremy Vanhoozer
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. NEW SERIES TO BE ANNOUNCED: Kurtis Wiebe
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. NEW SERIES TO BE ANNOUNCED: David Walker
6:00 p.m.–6:45 p.m. HALO: THE FALL OF REACH: Isaac Hannaford
SUNDAY, APRIL 10
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. THE ADVENTURES OF SUPERHERO GIRL, BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS: Faith Erin Hicks
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m.
EMILY AND THE STRANGERS: Cat Farris
PLANTS VS. ZOMBIES: Ron Chan
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. APOCALYPTIGIRL: Andrew MacLean
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. RAINBOW CHILDREN: THE ART OF CAMILLA D’ERRICO: Camilla d’Errico
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. THE MASSIVE: Garry Brown
Panel Schedule
Please join us at the panels below, brought to you by Dark Horse Comics and friends! Please visit http://emeraldcitycomicon.com/ for more panels featuring Dark Horse creators, as well as guidelines for attending panels.
THURSDAY, APRIL 7
Artists Who Write: On the Craft and Creation of Comics
5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. T305
Whether it’s a crime-fighting costumed heroine or a space adventure, there’s a lot of thought put into the sequential art that drives stories told in comics. Join some of the industry’s best artists—Adam Warren (Empowered), Patric Reynolds (Joe Golem), Daniel Warren Johnson (Alabaster, Space-Mullet!), Faith Erin Hicks (Buffy: The High School Years), and Kel McDonald (Misfits of Avalon)—as they discuss turning an idea into a full-fledged story and how they continue to keep their writing fresh.
FRIDAY, APRIL 8
Dark Horse Comics and Twentieth Century Fox: A Relationship Spanning Universes
12:15 p.m.–1:15 p.m. T305
Dark Horse achieved one of its earliest successes with the 1988 publication of Aliens, followed that with Predator (1989) and Aliens vs. Predator (1990), won over fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer with comics starting in 1998, and is now developing comics for the beautiful blue world of James Cameron’s Avatar. Join Joshua Izzo (Director of Licensing, Twentieth Century Fox), Randy Stradley (Vice President of Publishing, Dark Horse Comics), Brian Thies (Predator: Life and Death), Faith Erin Hicks (Buffy: The High School Years), and others involved in creating the worlds of the Xenoverse, the Whedonverse, and the Pandoran biosphere.
Painting in Comics: Behind the Scenes with Top Artists
4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. T305
Learn how four artists who have created and contributed to some of the most original artwork in the comics industry create their works of art. Camilla d’Errico (Tanpopo, Pop Manga, Helmetgirls), Jim Mahfood, a.k.a. Food One (Grrl Scouts, Stupid Comics, Clerks), Ben Templesmith (Gotham by Midnight, Fell, 30 Days of Night), and Bobby Chiu (Imaginism Studios) have broken new ground by using painting to create original artwork for Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, Image, and creator-owned comics.
SATURDAY, APRIL 9
Dark Horse Manga
1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m. T305
Dark Horse’s history with Japanese creators can be traced back to the company’s earliest years, with a publishing line that includes classics and contemporary titles alike, such as Lone Wolf & Cub, Unofficial Hatsune Mix, Blood Blockade Battlefront, Fire Emblem, Astro Boy, Oreimo: Kuroneko, Vampire Hunter D, The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Danganronpa, Appleseed, Berserk, I Am a Hero, Cardcaptor Sakura, Fate/Zero, Satoshi Kon’s OPUS, and Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt. Join Carl Horn and Zack Davisson for a look at the past, present, and future of Dark Horse Manga!
CAMILLA D’ERRICO LIVE PAINTING
4:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. LIVE Stage, Level 4/Skybridge Lobby
Watch at ECCC on the LIVE Stage, Level 4/Skybridge Lobby
Watch from home at http://www.emeraldcitycomicon.com/livestream.
Video Game Comics Level Up!
5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. Sheraton Metropolitan Ballroom A, Level 3
Dark Horse established itself in its early years as the premier publisher of licensed comics by continuing story lines from the big screen to the page. Now, this tradition is carried on through the most exciting video game tie-ins in the comics medium. Join Dark Horse publicist Aub Driver for a discussion with editor Ian Tucker on what it takes to bringing these titles from console to printed page.
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MILWAUKIE, OR— Dark Horse Comics is headed to the Pacific Northwest’s foremost and near sold out pop culture convention – Emerald City Comicon.
Visit Dark Horse Comics at ECCC booth #802 for free swag such as comics, buttons, posters, and more. Check out our signings and panels, too.
All attendees are invited to stop by for a free picture in the HappyMatic Photo Booth. We’ll also have a variety of Dark Horse comics, graphic novels, art books, and collectibles for sale in our booth.
SIGNING SCHEDULE
All creators signing in our booth offer their autographs for FREE. FREE prints, comics, or posters are provided for signings (while supplies last). You may purchase or bring items to be signed; however, we may restrict the type or number of items to be signed as necessary. Please note that some of the titles listed below have not been released for sale yet—in those cases, special prints will be available.
Lines may also be closed for some signings due to crowding or time restrictions.
All events are subject to change. Some restrictions apply. Please ask the Dark Horse Comics staff if you have questions.
THURSDAY, APRIL 7
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. SEMIAUTOMAGIC, ARCHIE VS. PREDATOR, GRINDHOUSE, SMOKE/ASHES: Alex de Campi
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. POWER CUBED: Aaron Lopresti
6:00 p.m.–6:45 p.m. DEAR CREATURE, THE NEW DEAL, GREEN RIVER KILLER: Jonathan Case
FRIDAY, APRIL 8
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. THIS DAMNED BAND: Tony Parker
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. THE ROOK: Steven Grant
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. EMPOWERED: Adam Warren
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. SPACE-MULLET!, ALABASTER, THE GHOST FLEET: Daniel Warren Johnson
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m.
NEW SERIES TO BE ANNOUNCED: Chris Mooneyham
PREDATOR: LIFE AND DEATH: Brian Thies
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. JOE GOLEM, ALIENS: FIRE AND STONE: Patric Reynolds
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m.
BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS, MISFITS OF AVALON: Kel McDonald
BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS, THE ADVENTURES OF SUPERHERO GIRL, THE LAST OF US: Faith Erin Hicks
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. HELLBOY AND THE B.P.R.D., ALIENS: FIRE AND STONE: Chris Roberson
6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. TOMB RAIDER: Phillip Sevy
SATURDAY, APRIL 9
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. LARA CROFT AND THE FROZEN OMEN, DEEP GRAVITY: Corinna Bechko
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. FIGHT CLUB 2, B.P.R.D. HELL ON EARTH, SIN TITULO: Cameron Stewart
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. WONDERFALL, LEAVING MEGALOPOLIS, TOMB RAIDER, CONAN RED SONJA: Gail Simone
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. PLANTS VS. ZOMBIES: Jeremy Vanhoozer
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. NEW SERIES TO BE ANNOUNCED: Kurtis Wiebe
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. NEW SERIES TO BE ANNOUNCED: David Walker
6:00 p.m.–6:45 p.m. HALO: THE FALL OF REACH: Isaac Hannaford
SUNDAY, APRIL 10
10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. THE ADVENTURES OF SUPERHERO GIRL, BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS: Faith Erin Hicks
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m.
EMILY AND THE STRANGERS: Cat Farris
PLANTS VS. ZOMBIES: Ron Chan
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. APOCALYPTIGIRL: Andrew MacLean
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. RAINBOW CHILDREN: THE ART OF CAMILLA D’ERRICO: Camilla d’Errico
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. THE MASSIVE: Garry Brown
Panel Schedule
Please join us at the panels below, brought to you by Dark Horse Comics and friends! Please visit http://emeraldcitycomicon.com/ for more panels featuring Dark Horse creators, as well as guidelines for attending panels.
THURSDAY, APRIL 7
Artists Who Write: On the Craft and Creation of Comics
5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. T305
Whether it’s a crime-fighting costumed heroine or a space adventure, there’s a lot of thought put into the sequential art that drives stories told in comics. Join some of the industry’s best artists—Adam Warren (Empowered), Patric Reynolds (Joe Golem), Daniel Warren Johnson (Alabaster, Space-Mullet!), Faith Erin Hicks (Buffy: The High School Years), and Kel McDonald (Misfits of Avalon)—as they discuss turning an idea into a full-fledged story and how they continue to keep their writing fresh.
FRIDAY, APRIL 8
Dark Horse Comics and Twentieth Century Fox: A Relationship Spanning Universes
12:15 p.m.–1:15 p.m. T305
Dark Horse achieved one of its earliest successes with the 1988 publication of Aliens, followed that with Predator (1989) and Aliens vs. Predator (1990), won over fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer with comics starting in 1998, and is now developing comics for the beautiful blue world of James Cameron’s Avatar. Join Joshua Izzo (Director of Licensing, Twentieth Century Fox), Randy Stradley (Vice President of Publishing, Dark Horse Comics), Brian Thies (Predator: Life and Death), Faith Erin Hicks (Buffy: The High School Years), and others involved in creating the worlds of the Xenoverse, the Whedonverse, and the Pandoran biosphere.
Painting in Comics: Behind the Scenes with Top Artists
4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. T305
Learn how four artists who have created and contributed to some of the most original artwork in the comics industry create their works of art. Camilla d’Errico (Tanpopo, Pop Manga, Helmetgirls), Jim Mahfood, a.k.a. Food One (Grrl Scouts, Stupid Comics, Clerks), Ben Templesmith (Gotham by Midnight, Fell, 30 Days of Night), and Bobby Chiu (Imaginism Studios) have broken new ground by using painting to create original artwork for Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, Image, and creator-owned comics.
SATURDAY, APRIL 9
Dark Horse Manga
1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m. T305
Dark Horse’s history with Japanese creators can be traced back to the company’s earliest years, with a publishing line that includes classics and contemporary titles alike, such as Lone Wolf & Cub, Unofficial Hatsune Mix, Blood Blockade Battlefront, Fire Emblem, Astro Boy, Oreimo: Kuroneko, Vampire Hunter D, The Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Danganronpa, Appleseed, Berserk, I Am a Hero, Cardcaptor Sakura, Fate/Zero, Satoshi Kon’s OPUS, and Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt. Join Carl Horn and Zack Davisson for a look at the past, present, and future of Dark Horse Manga!
CAMILLA D’ERRICO LIVE PAINTING
4:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. LIVE Stage, Level 4/Skybridge Lobby
Watch at ECCC on the LIVE Stage, Level 4/Skybridge Lobby
Watch from home at http://www.emeraldcitycomicon.com/livestream.
Video Game Comics Level Up!
5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. Sheraton Metropolitan Ballroom A, Level 3
Dark Horse established itself in its early years as the premier publisher of licensed comics by continuing story lines from the big screen to the page. Now, this tradition is carried on through the most exciting video game tie-ins in the comics medium. Join Dark Horse publicist Aub Driver for a discussion with editor Ian Tucker on what it takes to bringing these titles from console to printed page.
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Friday, April 1, 2016
EPIX Announces "Wanda Sykes" Comedy Special
World Television Premiere Friday, October 21 at 10PM ET/PT, 9C
The Emmy® Winning Comedian Returns to Premium Television with First Stand-Up Special in Seven Years
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Premium TV network EPIX® announced today that it will spotlight the straightforward and no-nonsense comedy of Emmy® Award winning comedian, writer and actress Wanda Sykes, in the one-hour Original Comedy Event What Happened…Ms. Sykes? Best known for her roles in “The New Adventures of Old Christine,” "Curb Your Enthusiasm," and "The Chris Rock Show," What Happened…Ms. Sykes? -- Sykes’ first stand-up performance for the network -- makes its World Television Premiere on EPIX on Friday, October 21, 2016 at 10pm ET/PT, 9pm C.
“The Improv: 50 Years Behind the Brick Wall”
What Happened…Ms. Sykes? will be filmed on May 21, 2016, at The Theatre at Ace Hotel in Los Angeles. The special will focus on Wanda’s life, family, race and politics as she questions, “How Did I Get Here?” Join the conversation about What Happened…Ms. Sykes? on Twitter with #WhatHappened.
Wanda Sykes said: “I’m excited to be partnering with EPIX for this show. It’s been too long since my last special, but just like a new Sade album, it takes time to deliver pure genius. You can thank me later.”
Mark S. Greenberg, President & CEO of EPIX, said: “Wanda delivers first-rate stand-up comedy that touches on culturally-relevant and sometimes controversial topics with her own brand of humor that has captivated audiences for nearly two decades. We look forward to celebrating that legacy as well as her funny, honest takes on parenting and family life in her first special for EPIX.”
Sykes has headlined numerous television projects including her own late night talk show “The Wanda Sykes Show.” She was also seen in “Wanda at Large,” which she wrote, produced and starred in; the CBS comedy “The New Adventures of Old Christine” and HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” She has done three stand up specials: “Wanda Sykes: Tongue Untied” for Comedy Central, and two HBO specials, “Wanda Sykes: Sick and Tired” and “Wanda Sykes: I’ma Be Me,” which were both were nominated for a Primetime Emmy® Award for “Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special,” while “I’ma Be Me” was also nominated for “Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Special.”
She’s lent her voice to animated feature films, including the upcoming Ice Ace: Collision Course, Ice Age: Continental Drift, and Rio, and appeared in Evan Almighty and Monster-In-Law. As a writer on “The Chris Rock Show,” she was nominated for three Primetime Emmy® Awards and in 1999 won for “Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Special.” In 2001, she won the American Comedy Award for “Funniest Female Stand-Up Comic” and three more Emmy®’s for her work on “Inside the NFL.” Her first book Yeah, I Said It, published by Simon & Schuster, is a hilarious collection of essays touching on life, family and current events.
What Happened…Ms. Sykes? is an EPIX Original Comedy Event produced by Push It Productions’ Page Hurwitz and Wanda Sykes, directed by Liz Patrick. Ross Bernard is the executive producer for EPIX, Valerie Bishop is the producer for EPIX and Rachèle “Rocky” Benloulou-Dubin is the consulting producer for EPIX.
EPIX is known for its all-star roster of stand-up specials. Previous featured headliners include: Russell Brand, Craig Ferguson, Michael Ian Black, Marc Maron, Lewis Black, Patton Oswalt, Louis C.K., Jenny McCarthy, Dennis Miller, Sherri Shepherd, Eddie Izzard, Jim Norton, Lisa Lampanelli, Jim Breuer, Tom Papa, and Jim Jefferies. EPIX’s commitment to the craft of comedy also includes the EPIX Original Documentary “The Improv: 50 Years Behind the Brick Wall,” a revealing special that brings together the biggest names in comedy to tell the inside story of America’s first comedy club.
About Push It Productions
Wanda Sykes and veteran producer Page Hurwitz joined forces to form Push It Productions, a production company dedicated to creating quality, comedy-based programming for network, cable, and Internet outlets. The company's diverse slate of projects includes sketch comedy, sitcom, game show, reality, talk/variety, and competition formats.
After successfully reviving NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” franchise, Season 9 debuted with its largest number of viewers since 2007. In addition to producing Last Comic, Push It has a first look production deal with NBC. The company also has new projects set up at BET, History, USA, and Telepictures. Push It's first series, “Wanda Sykes Presents Herlarious” (OWN), is the winner of a 2014 Gracie Award.
About EPIX
EPIX is a premium entertainment network delivering the latest movie releases and biggest classic film franchises, plus original programming including series, documentaries, comedy and music specials – all available on TV, on demand, online and across devices. Launched in October 2009, EPIX has pioneered the development and proliferation of “TV Everywhere.” It was the first premium network to provide multi-platform access to its content online at EPIX.com and to launch on Xbox, PlayStation®, Android phones and tablets, and Roku® players. EPIX is also available across Chromecast, Apple® iPhones® and iPads®, Android TV and more and is the only premium service providing all its programming on all platforms, delivering more movies than any other premium network, with thousands of titles available for streaming.
EPIX is a joint venture between Viacom Inc., its Paramount Pictures unit, Lionsgate and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM). Through relationships with cable, satellite and telco partners, EPIX is available to over 50 million homes nationwide. For more information about EPIX, go to www.EPIX.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHD (http://www.twitter.com/EpixHD) and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/EPIX), YouTube (http://youtube.com/EPIX), Instagram (http://instagram.com/EPIX), Google+ (http://plus.google.com/+EPIX), Pinterest (http://pinterest.com/EPIX) and Vine (https://vine.co/EPIX).
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"GRAMMYS on the Hill" Honors Zac Brown Band and Congressmen Crowley and Rooney
The Recording Academy® to Honor Three-Time GRAMMY Winners Zac Brown Band and Reps. Joseph Crowley, Thomas J. Rooney at GRAMMYS on the Hill® Awards on April 13
More Than 200 Music Creators to Lobby on Capitol Hill During Advocacy Day on April 14
WASHINGTON, D.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Representatives of the worlds of music and politics will come together at The Recording Academy®'s 2016 GRAMMYs on the Hill® Awards to honor three-time GRAMMY® winners Zac Brown Band, who will receive the Recording Artists' Coalition® Award for their musical achievements and commitment to philanthropic causes, including Zac Brown’s Camp Southern Ground, the Boot Campaign, City of Hope, MusiCares, and the USO. And the Recording Academy will honor Reps. Joseph Crowley (D-N.Y.), and Thomas J. Rooney (R-Fla.), co-sponsors of the Allocation For Music Producers Act (H.R. 1457), also known as the AMP Act, a bill that would streamline how producers receive performance royalties. Both legislators are being recognized for their support and understanding of vital issues impacting music creators.
“Washington's most interesting mix of music and politics”
Known as "Washington's most interesting mix of music and politics," the awards presentation takes place on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at the Hamilton Live in Washington D.C., and will feature unique live performances and musical surprises. The sold-out celebration will begin with a cocktail reception and dinner, followed by the awards presentation.
Attending is a who’s who of music luminaries, including GRAMMY-winning gospel artist Yolanda Adams, country singer/guitarist Josh Abbott, Robert "Kool" Bell of GRAMMY winners Kool & the Gang, songwriter/producer Evan Bogart, David Bromberg, GRAMMY winning songwriter/producer Bryan Michael Cox, R&B artist Raheem DeVaughn, GRAMMY winner Kendra Foster, Ginuwine, singer/songwriter/guitarist Warren Haynes of GRAMMY winners the Allman Brothers, songwriter/producer Rodney Jerkins, contemporary Christian artist Matt Maher, singer/songwriter and San Francisco Chapter Board Advisor Ledisi, GRAMMY winner Ramsey Lewis, songwriter/producer and The Academy's National Advocacy Committee co-chair Harvey Mason Jr., singer/songwriter Eddie Money, singer/songwriter Anna Nalick, GRAMMY winner Smokey Robinson, Ed Roland of Collective Soul, GRAMMY winner Jon Secada, Kathy Sledge of Sister Sledge, gospel artist Richard Smallwood, Dee Snider of Twisted Sister, hip-hop artist and Texas Chapter Trustee Paul Wall, and rapper Wale. The event will be hosted by country and bluegrass singer/songwriter and radio host Jim Lauderdale.
"Zac Brown Band is an excellent example of creative artists making a difference not only in music, but in the world of philanthropy at large," said Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow. "It's our pleasure to recognize their dedication at our 2016 GRAMMYs on the Hill event."
"The Academy is pleased to honor Congressmen Crowley and Rooney, whose sponsorship of the AMP Act and the Fair Play Fair Pay Act demonstrates their understanding and support of crucial parity issues for music professionals at a pivotal time for music legislation in Washington," Portnow continued.
On April 14, the day after the awards ceremony, The Recording Academy will bring hundreds of music professionals from across the country to visit with lawmakers to advance policies for American music as part of The Academy's annual GRAMMYs on the Hill Advocacy Day. The program is the music community's largest annual advocacy day in Washington, D.C.
The GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards are sponsored by performance rights organization SESAC. Event proceeds benefit the GRAMMY Foundation®'s GRAMMY Signature Schools initiative, which provides support for underserved music programs throughout the country. A GRAMMY Signature Schools Enterprise Award recipient, the Charyl Stockwell Preparatory Academy in Brighton, Mich., will also be honored during the celebration.
For updates and breaking news, please visit The Recording Academy's Advocacy social networks on Twitter (@GRAMMYAdvocacy) and Facebook.
About Zac Brown Band
Three-time GRAMMY winners and multi-platinum artists Zac Brown Band have become one of music's most heralded acts. Their latest gold-certified album JEKYLL + HYDE, out now on Southern Ground Artists/John Varvatos Records/Big Machine Label Group/Republic Records, marks the band’s third consecutive #1 debut on the Billboard 200 chart. Together with their three platinum-selling albums, Uncaged, You Get What You Give, and The Foundation, and their 2013 project The Grohl Sessions Vol. 1, the band has sold over eight million albums to date. The band has earned a historic series of fifteen #1 hit radio singles and became only the second artist to top both the country and active rock formats. "Homegrown," the band's first single off of JEKYLL + HYDE, earned the title of the "No. 1 most-heard song of 2015" according to Mediabase.
Zac Brown Band is set to kick-off the "BLACK OUT THE SUN" tour this May 19th at Hartford’s XFINITY Theatre. The band's sixth headlining US concert tour follows on the heels of their largest North American Stadium Tour to date, which included two history making performances - a first ever sold-out, three-night run at Fenway Park, and the first-ever concert at Coors Field along with performances at Wrigley Field, Nationals Park, Citi Field, Comerica Park and Citizen's Bank Park. Zac Brown Band is managed by ROAR, a Beverly Hills-based artist and brand management company. The band is also represented by CAA, public relations firm Shore Fire Media and strategic digital marketing agency Girlilla Marketing.
In addition to their musical endeavors, members of Zac Brown Band have worked diligently to contribute time and money to philanthropic causes, particularly for children. The band has helped raise funds to benefit Brown's nonprofit Camp Southern Ground in Peachtree City, Ga., for kids with academic, social, and emotional difficulties.
About Rep. Joseph Crowley
Crowley served in the New York State Assembly before being elected to Congress in 1998 to represent the 14th congressional district of New York, encompassing parts of the Bronx and Queens. Currently he is vice chair of the Democratic Caucus, the fifth-highest ranking position in House Democratic Leadership. Called a "rising star" in the Democratic Caucus by National Journal, Crowley’s efforts in Congress are focused on building strong communities, expanding opportunities for hardworking American families, and leading on human rights and social justice issues.
In 2014, the congressman was a featured speaker at a first-of-its kind GRAMMY Week Town Hall, held Jan. 25 in Los Angeles, where Recording Academy leadership met with leadership from the U.S. House of Representatives to discuss the legislative outlook and music issues such as music royalties, online theft, performance rights, and visas for traveling artists. Congressman Crowley also plays guitar and served as featured instrumentalist during GRAMMYs on The Hill 2015 as part of a demonstration of the importance of musical sidemen to classic recordings.
A member of Recording Arts and Sciences Congressional Caucus, Crowley introduced the Allocation For Music Producers Act on March 19, 2015, and is a champion for music in education.
About Rep. Thomas J. Rooney
Rooney was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Florida's 17th district in 2008. A native of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Congressman Rooney sits on the House Appropriations Committee's Subcommittee's on Agriculture, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and State and Foreign Operations. He is a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and serves as Chairman of the Intelligence Subcommittee on Emerging Threats. He also serves as a Deputy Whip for the Majority.
Congressman Rooney is also a drummer and has supported his interest in music at previous Capitol Hill events. In 2011 he joined fellow 2016 GRAMMYs on the Hill honoree Crowley as well as Reps. Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.) and Ted Deutch (D-Fla.) to record a song at Washington, D.C.'s SiriusXM studios with producers who have worked with artists such as Guns N' Roses, LeAnn Rimes and Raheem DeVaughn. The resulting song debuted at the 2011 GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards. The previous year, Rooney joined Crowley on guitar and Deutch on keyboards to back the Monkees' Micky Dolenz at a Capitol Hill performance after Dolenz lobbied Congress in favor of performance rights for music creators.
Rooney is also a member of the Recording Arts and Sciences Congressional Caucus, and joined with Congressman Crowley to introduce the Allocation for Music Producers Act. The AMP Act has since become a key part of the Fair Play Fair Pay Act Of 2015, a comprehensive bill that addresses a number of pay equity issues for creators.
About The Recording Academy
Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, songwriters, producers, engineers, and recording professionals dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards® — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education, and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture.
The Academy’s Advocacy & Public Policy office in Washington, D.C., partners with Academy members from across the country to present a powerful lobbying corps for music creators' rights.
For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For more about The Academy's Advocacy & Public Policy initiatives, please visit www.grammy.com/Advocacy. For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @TheGRAMMYs and @GRAMMYAdvocacy on Twitter, "like" The GRAMMYs and GRAMMY Advocacy on Facebook, and join The GRAMMYs' social communities on, Google +, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, and YouTube.
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More Than 200 Music Creators to Lobby on Capitol Hill During Advocacy Day on April 14
WASHINGTON, D.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Representatives of the worlds of music and politics will come together at The Recording Academy®'s 2016 GRAMMYs on the Hill® Awards to honor three-time GRAMMY® winners Zac Brown Band, who will receive the Recording Artists' Coalition® Award for their musical achievements and commitment to philanthropic causes, including Zac Brown’s Camp Southern Ground, the Boot Campaign, City of Hope, MusiCares, and the USO. And the Recording Academy will honor Reps. Joseph Crowley (D-N.Y.), and Thomas J. Rooney (R-Fla.), co-sponsors of the Allocation For Music Producers Act (H.R. 1457), also known as the AMP Act, a bill that would streamline how producers receive performance royalties. Both legislators are being recognized for their support and understanding of vital issues impacting music creators.
“Washington's most interesting mix of music and politics”
Known as "Washington's most interesting mix of music and politics," the awards presentation takes place on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at the Hamilton Live in Washington D.C., and will feature unique live performances and musical surprises. The sold-out celebration will begin with a cocktail reception and dinner, followed by the awards presentation.
Attending is a who’s who of music luminaries, including GRAMMY-winning gospel artist Yolanda Adams, country singer/guitarist Josh Abbott, Robert "Kool" Bell of GRAMMY winners Kool & the Gang, songwriter/producer Evan Bogart, David Bromberg, GRAMMY winning songwriter/producer Bryan Michael Cox, R&B artist Raheem DeVaughn, GRAMMY winner Kendra Foster, Ginuwine, singer/songwriter/guitarist Warren Haynes of GRAMMY winners the Allman Brothers, songwriter/producer Rodney Jerkins, contemporary Christian artist Matt Maher, singer/songwriter and San Francisco Chapter Board Advisor Ledisi, GRAMMY winner Ramsey Lewis, songwriter/producer and The Academy's National Advocacy Committee co-chair Harvey Mason Jr., singer/songwriter Eddie Money, singer/songwriter Anna Nalick, GRAMMY winner Smokey Robinson, Ed Roland of Collective Soul, GRAMMY winner Jon Secada, Kathy Sledge of Sister Sledge, gospel artist Richard Smallwood, Dee Snider of Twisted Sister, hip-hop artist and Texas Chapter Trustee Paul Wall, and rapper Wale. The event will be hosted by country and bluegrass singer/songwriter and radio host Jim Lauderdale.
"Zac Brown Band is an excellent example of creative artists making a difference not only in music, but in the world of philanthropy at large," said Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow. "It's our pleasure to recognize their dedication at our 2016 GRAMMYs on the Hill event."
"The Academy is pleased to honor Congressmen Crowley and Rooney, whose sponsorship of the AMP Act and the Fair Play Fair Pay Act demonstrates their understanding and support of crucial parity issues for music professionals at a pivotal time for music legislation in Washington," Portnow continued.
On April 14, the day after the awards ceremony, The Recording Academy will bring hundreds of music professionals from across the country to visit with lawmakers to advance policies for American music as part of The Academy's annual GRAMMYs on the Hill Advocacy Day. The program is the music community's largest annual advocacy day in Washington, D.C.
The GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards are sponsored by performance rights organization SESAC. Event proceeds benefit the GRAMMY Foundation®'s GRAMMY Signature Schools initiative, which provides support for underserved music programs throughout the country. A GRAMMY Signature Schools Enterprise Award recipient, the Charyl Stockwell Preparatory Academy in Brighton, Mich., will also be honored during the celebration.
For updates and breaking news, please visit The Recording Academy's Advocacy social networks on Twitter (@GRAMMYAdvocacy) and Facebook.
About Zac Brown Band
Three-time GRAMMY winners and multi-platinum artists Zac Brown Band have become one of music's most heralded acts. Their latest gold-certified album JEKYLL + HYDE, out now on Southern Ground Artists/John Varvatos Records/Big Machine Label Group/Republic Records, marks the band’s third consecutive #1 debut on the Billboard 200 chart. Together with their three platinum-selling albums, Uncaged, You Get What You Give, and The Foundation, and their 2013 project The Grohl Sessions Vol. 1, the band has sold over eight million albums to date. The band has earned a historic series of fifteen #1 hit radio singles and became only the second artist to top both the country and active rock formats. "Homegrown," the band's first single off of JEKYLL + HYDE, earned the title of the "No. 1 most-heard song of 2015" according to Mediabase.
Zac Brown Band is set to kick-off the "BLACK OUT THE SUN" tour this May 19th at Hartford’s XFINITY Theatre. The band's sixth headlining US concert tour follows on the heels of their largest North American Stadium Tour to date, which included two history making performances - a first ever sold-out, three-night run at Fenway Park, and the first-ever concert at Coors Field along with performances at Wrigley Field, Nationals Park, Citi Field, Comerica Park and Citizen's Bank Park. Zac Brown Band is managed by ROAR, a Beverly Hills-based artist and brand management company. The band is also represented by CAA, public relations firm Shore Fire Media and strategic digital marketing agency Girlilla Marketing.
In addition to their musical endeavors, members of Zac Brown Band have worked diligently to contribute time and money to philanthropic causes, particularly for children. The band has helped raise funds to benefit Brown's nonprofit Camp Southern Ground in Peachtree City, Ga., for kids with academic, social, and emotional difficulties.
About Rep. Joseph Crowley
Crowley served in the New York State Assembly before being elected to Congress in 1998 to represent the 14th congressional district of New York, encompassing parts of the Bronx and Queens. Currently he is vice chair of the Democratic Caucus, the fifth-highest ranking position in House Democratic Leadership. Called a "rising star" in the Democratic Caucus by National Journal, Crowley’s efforts in Congress are focused on building strong communities, expanding opportunities for hardworking American families, and leading on human rights and social justice issues.
In 2014, the congressman was a featured speaker at a first-of-its kind GRAMMY Week Town Hall, held Jan. 25 in Los Angeles, where Recording Academy leadership met with leadership from the U.S. House of Representatives to discuss the legislative outlook and music issues such as music royalties, online theft, performance rights, and visas for traveling artists. Congressman Crowley also plays guitar and served as featured instrumentalist during GRAMMYs on The Hill 2015 as part of a demonstration of the importance of musical sidemen to classic recordings.
A member of Recording Arts and Sciences Congressional Caucus, Crowley introduced the Allocation For Music Producers Act on March 19, 2015, and is a champion for music in education.
About Rep. Thomas J. Rooney
Rooney was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Florida's 17th district in 2008. A native of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Congressman Rooney sits on the House Appropriations Committee's Subcommittee's on Agriculture, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and State and Foreign Operations. He is a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and serves as Chairman of the Intelligence Subcommittee on Emerging Threats. He also serves as a Deputy Whip for the Majority.
Congressman Rooney is also a drummer and has supported his interest in music at previous Capitol Hill events. In 2011 he joined fellow 2016 GRAMMYs on the Hill honoree Crowley as well as Reps. Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.) and Ted Deutch (D-Fla.) to record a song at Washington, D.C.'s SiriusXM studios with producers who have worked with artists such as Guns N' Roses, LeAnn Rimes and Raheem DeVaughn. The resulting song debuted at the 2011 GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards. The previous year, Rooney joined Crowley on guitar and Deutch on keyboards to back the Monkees' Micky Dolenz at a Capitol Hill performance after Dolenz lobbied Congress in favor of performance rights for music creators.
Rooney is also a member of the Recording Arts and Sciences Congressional Caucus, and joined with Congressman Crowley to introduce the Allocation for Music Producers Act. The AMP Act has since become a key part of the Fair Play Fair Pay Act Of 2015, a comprehensive bill that addresses a number of pay equity issues for creators.
About The Recording Academy
Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, songwriters, producers, engineers, and recording professionals dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards® — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education, and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture.
The Academy’s Advocacy & Public Policy office in Washington, D.C., partners with Academy members from across the country to present a powerful lobbying corps for music creators' rights.
For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For more about The Academy's Advocacy & Public Policy initiatives, please visit www.grammy.com/Advocacy. For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @TheGRAMMYs and @GRAMMYAdvocacy on Twitter, "like" The GRAMMYs and GRAMMY Advocacy on Facebook, and join The GRAMMYs' social communities on, Google +, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, and YouTube.
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"Sailor Moon Crystal" Season III Premiere Gets U.S./Japan Digital Simulcast
VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES THE DIGITAL SIMULCAST PREMIERE OF LATEST SEASON OF SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL
First Episode Of The New Season Of Reimagined Fantasy Action Series Based On The Classic Anime Saga To Stream On Same Day As The Japanese Broadcast Premiere
VIZ Media delivers a special treat to U.S. anime fans as it announces the digital premiere of the latest season of SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL on April 4th, 2016 on both VIZ Media’s streaming platform and Hulu.
The first episode (subtitled) of the brand new season will launch on VIZ Media’s anime streaming platform and will stream on Hulu in a special digital simulcast that will take place on the same day as its broadcast premiere in Japan. VIZ Media and Hulu will premiere future new simulcast streamed episodes of SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL Season 3 on a weekly basis on Mondays.
Based on the legendary manga by Naoko Takuechi, SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL (rated ‘TV-PG’), retells the story of Sailor Moon and her fellow Sailor Guardians as they protect planet Earth from the dark forces of evil. Following their victory over the Death Phantom, Sailor Moon and her friends return to their regular lives. But peace is short-lived as a new enemy emerges from the shadows, as well as the appearance of two mysterious Sailor Guardians…
Earlier episodes of SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL are available on VIZ Media’s streaming platform at www.viz.com/anime/streaming/sailormooncrystal and on Hulu.
VIZ Media’s consolidated online destination for FREE streaming anime content in the U.S. currently offers more than 4,100 subtitled and English dubbed episodes and movies from more than 36 series! VIZ Media’s streaming content also reaches an expansive on-demand U.S.-based audience on Hulu, which enables viewers to watch shows anytime, anywhere across devices including Xbox One, PlayStation®4, Roku, Roku TV, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, and mobile devices. A full list of Hulu-enabled devices can be found at http://www.hulu.com/plus/devices.
For more information on SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL, or other award-winning anime titles from VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.
Additional information on VIZ Media’s streaming anime is available at: http://www.viz.com/anime/streaming/.
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April Fool's Negromancer
Here's April 2016! Welcome to Negromancer 2.0. This is the rebirth of Negromancer, the former movie review website as a new movie review and movie news site.
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Support me on Patreon.
All images and text appearing on this blog are © copyright and/or trademark their respective owners.
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