A week of premiere events kept EBONY in the streets, but every screening was worth it to see some of the major TV shows and films about to fill our screens.
Animals Premiere in Los Angeles
Kerry Washington stars in Netflix’s newest psychological thriller, Animals, which questions how far people will go to save their child from a ransom demand. Washington joined her co-stars for its world premiere at Directors Village in Westwood, followed by a post-reception at Baltaire. She stars opposite Steven Yeun and Ben Affleck, who directed the film.
The evening began with a pre-reception celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, bringing iconic vendors from the streets of Los Angeles — including Villas Tacos, Speedy Dog, Borreguitas Tacos, Vchos Pupusas, The Churro Man, Xeladas El Xolo, Alredo’s Fruit Cart, and Mario’s Nieves — to the red carpet.
Animals premieres on October 9 on Netflix.
NCIS: NY In the Big Apple
Don’t call it a comeback, but LL Cool J has returned to the Big Apple. After 14 seasons on NCIS: LA and guest spots on its original and spin-offs, the Bay Shore, New York-born, Queens-raised artist and actor has brought Special Agent Sam Hanna to the latest iteration of the series, NCIS: NY.
LL Cool J and his new cast celebrated the series premiere in one of New York City’s most iconic destinations, the Intrepid in Manhattan. The World War II aircraft carrier, commissioned in 1943, now serves as a maritime, military, and aerospace history museum. The theater was filled with active military in full regalia.
After the screening, cast and VIP guests ascended to the museum’s rooftop for an outdoor celebration on a perfect New York fall night. Katz Deli and Junior’s Cheesecake kiosks served up pastrami, corned beef and delectable desserts, while a steady stream of eighties and early nineties hits filled the sound speakers, including LL Cool J’s own chart-topping beats. The star closed down the party, smiling, chatting and taking photos with fans and family alike.
NICS: NY premieres October 6 on CBS.
Forever, This Ring In Hollywood
Taye Diggs hung out with Erica Mena, along with Loretta Devine, La’Myia Good, Marques Houston, Malik Whitfield and more at the premiere of Forever, This Ring at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. The psychological thriller, directed by filmmaker and former record executive Chris Stokes, follows a wealthy couple whose picture-perfect marriage quickly turns into a nightmare when the husband discovers his new wife is not who he thought she was. The film, which premieres October 2, is available on Turnstr+.