Thursday, May 15, 2025

THE RETURN OF KING OF THE HILL


Life has changed since "King of the Hill" ended way back in 2009.

Hulu has released the first look of the animated comedy revival from creators Mike Judge and Greg Daniels, and the new poster shows a drone flying a case of Alamo beer into Arlen, Texas.

Hank Hill is back with his longtime pals – Bill, Dale, and Boomhauer – drinking beer in the alley behind Hank's house. Hank and company look slightly older, naturally. His pals are embracing change. Bill is enjoying food deliveries by Mega Lo Eats, while Dale is rocking a virtual reality headset with an Alamo in hand.

Judge reprises his voice roles as propane salesman Hank Hill and fast-talking pal Boomhauer. Kathy Najimy returns as Hank's wife Peggy. Pamela Adlon returns as son Bobby, who now works in a fusion restaurant (a career inspired by weekends spent grilling with his dad).

Stephen Root is back as Bill Dauterive. Johnny Hardwick, the voice of Dale Gribble, died in 2023.

Hulu retweeted the poster with the exclamation, "We are so back!" No official date has been given for the series, which is expected in the summer. Show creators will give more information on May 30 at the "King of the Hill" revival event at Austin's ATX TV Festival. Judge, Daniels and other cast members are expected to attend...

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

A TRIBUTE TO DORIS DAY - SIX YEARS LATER

It amazing that the velvet voice of Doris Day was silenced six years ago today...


Sunday, May 11, 2025

HOLLYWOOD MOM: DEDE BALL

DeDe Ball, born on September 21, 1892, was an unwavering supporter of her daughter, Lucille Ball, who became a television icon. DeDe's dedication to Lucy's career was evident in her constant presence at the live shows, where she proudly occupied her designated spot in the audience. In 1975, DeDe shared her experience with Photoplay Magazine, reminiscing, “Oh, I may have missed one or two if I was ill, or up at Lucille’s condominium in Colorado of late, but I don’t think I’ve missed many. I had my own spot where I sat in the audience, my own cheering section. I’d bring my friends with me, and if they didn’t cheer, they didn’t get home!”

This heartfelt support extended beyond live performances. Even during projects without a live audience, such as the film "Mame," DeDe was a cherished visitor on set, contributing to the warm and familial atmosphere that defined Lucy's work. Her presence provided not just moral support but also a sense of comfort in the demanding world of entertainment.

DeDe’s role in Lucy's life highlights the profound bond between mother and daughter, showcasing the importance of family in the face of fame and success. Lucy often credited her mother's encouragement as a driving force behind her relentless pursuit of her dreams.

The relationship between DeDe and Lucille is a poignant reminder of how foundational support can shape one's journey, particularly in the competitive landscape of Hollywood. Their story continues to resonate, illustrating the power of love and encouragement in achieving greatness. DeDe died in 1977...


Friday, May 9, 2025

HOLLYWOOD MOM: CATHERINE SCORSESE

Catherine Cappa was a native of Little Italy, Manhattan, New York City. Her father worked as a stage coordinator in theatre. By the 1930s, Catherine was working as a machinist in the Garment District. In 1933, she married the actor Luciano Charles "Charlie" Scorsese who was also working in the garment industry at the time. The bride was 21-years-old, while the groom was 20-years-old. The couple had three children, including film director Martin Scorsese.

Scorsese made her film debut in her son's short film "It's Not Just You, Murray!" (1964). She also played maternal roles in "Who's That Knocking at My Door" (1967), "The King of Comedy" (1983), "Easy Money" (1983), "Goodfellas" (1990), and "Casino" (1995). She had bit parts in several other films. She appeared as herself in the documentary "Italianamerican" (1974), about the experiences of Italian American immigrants.

While directing his mother in "Goodfellas" (below), Martin didn't tell her that her character's son had just killed someone, and the body was in the trunk of his car. He only told her that her son was home for dinner, and to cook for them. The dinner scene as Tommy's mother was almost completely improvised, including Joe Pesci as Tommy asking his mother if he could borrow her butcher's knife and Jimmy's "hoof" comment.


The painting that Catherine's character brings out was actually painted by "Wiseguy" author Nicholas Pileggi's mother and is based on a picture from the November 1978 National Geographic.
Catherine often she cooked meals for cast and crew members of her son's films. She was working at the time on her cookbook "Italianamerican: The Scorsese Family Cookbook." It was completed and published in 1996, months before her death. It was her only published work...