ASPiRE, the new television network from Magic Johnson Enterprises that promised, at the time of its launch, an “entertaining and inspiring mix of original and groundbreaking programming,” with the likes of Laurence Fishburne, Omari Hardwick, Esperanza Spalding and Jonathan Slocumb set to host prime-time series blocks focused on movies, comedy, original series, and music, has greenlit it first talk show, according to Variety.
Titled Exhale, the new network’s entry into the talkshow space is said to be similar to The View, and will be hosted by five African-American women in media: journalist Angela Burt-Murray, actress and comedian Erin Jackson, Issa Rae (“The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl”), author and TV anchor Rene Syler, and actress Malinda Williams.
Content will include conversation on the usual topics – family, relationships, career, money and faith. Exhale, which is ASPiRE’s 3rd original series, will be produced by Lynne Robinson and Black Robin Media. Shooting has already begun for what will be an 8-episode first run set to debut in June.
“We are thrilled to add ‘Exhale’ to our lineup of original programming,” said the ASPiRE GM Paul Butler. “This fresh, hip and candid new series will enlighten audiences with its broad range of topics relevant to the community.”
ASPiRE, launched in June 2012, was selected by Comcast from among over 100 candidates as one of four new minority-owned independent networks, and expectations are that the new network will be available in 20 to 30 million homes by the end of this year.
article by Tambay A. Obenon via indiewire.com
Issa Rae, Malinda Williams to Co-Host New ASPiRE Talkshow Modeled After 'The View'
Published in Entertainment and TV
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