Latest news with #ITNProductions
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy' Sets Summer Airdate on ITV in the U.K. (Exclusive)
Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy will air on ITV1 and ITVX in August, The Hollywood Reporter can reveal. Blue Ant Studios, an international production studio and rights business, inked the deal with the U.K. channel to release the film at 9 p.m. London time on Aug. 18. More from The Hollywood Reporter ITV Sets New Cost Cuts, CEO Talks Disney Streaming Deal and Using AI for 'Love Island' Casting Box Office Grosses Won't Return to Pre-COVID Levels Even By 2029, New Report Forecasts Benedict Cumberbatch to Receive Zurich's Golden Eye Award The studio is overseeing global licensing and distribution of ITN Productions' one-hour film about Friends star Perry, who died at the age of 54 in October 2023. Commissioned by Peacock/NBC, the documentary first aired on the U.S. streamer in February this year. In its premiere week, Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy made Peacock's top 10 list of most-watched shows. ITN Productions has since updated the film to reflect the developments in the case of Dr. Salvador Plascencia, who pleaded guilty Wednesday to giving Perry ketamine in the month leading up to the Friends star's death. 'The story of Perry's rise to fame is interwoven with the harrowing tale of his final days,' a plot synopsis says, 'as he allegedly received ketamine from sources the U.S. Attorney claims 'should have known better.'' Friends co-star and Hollywood doyenne Morgan Fairchild — who fans will recall played Chandler's eccentric mother Nora Bing in the NBC series — talks candidly in the film about Perry's drug addiction and working with the actor. The doc also includes commentary from Hollywood insiders, U.S. Sun journalist Katy Forrester, medical professionals and Martin Estrada, the District Attorney at the Central District of California U.S. Attorney's office at the time of Perry's death, among other contributors. 'This latest sale to ITV in the U.K. is testament to the timeliness of the project in addition to ITN Production's thorough examination of the tragic end of Matthew Perry's life,' says Gerbrig Blanksma, senior vp international sales and partnerships at Blue Ant Studios. 'Sales have already been made in nearly 20 territories globally, and we expect interest in the documentary to continue.' Sasha Breslau, ITV head of content acquisitions, added: 'We're pleased to bring this in-depth and fascinating film to ITVX, documenting the life of one of television's best loved actors, Matthew Perry. The film hears first hand from those who knew Matthew, as well as telling the story of his untimely passing with updated developments not seen before.' ITN Productions' head of international programmes Ian Russell said: 'The film got a lot of attention when it was released on Peacock in the U.S. and I am delighted that Blue Ant Studios has found it a home on ITV, so U.K. audiences can appreciate the — now updated — intricacies of this tragic story.' Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy was executive produced by Ian Russell, head of international programs for ITN, as well as Mike Griffiths and Robert Palumbo. It was directed by Palumbo and the production manager was Nickie Hyde. It was commissioned by Cori Abraham, senior vp, NBCUniversal and is distributed worldwide by Blue Ant Studios. Post was in-house by ITN Post. Best of The Hollywood Reporter 'The Studio': 30 Famous Faces Who Play (a Version of) Themselves in the Hollywood-Based Series 22 of the Most Shocking Character Deaths in Television History A 'Star Wars' Timeline: All the Movies and TV Shows in the Franchise Solve the daily Crossword
Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Matthew Perry documentary featuring Friends co-star coming to ITV
A documentary about the life of Friends actor Matthew Perry, who tragically died in 2023, will be coming to ITV in August. A heart-wrenching documentary about the life and tragic death of Friends star Matthew Perry is set to air on ITV this August. Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy, which first premiered on Peacock in the US, will now be available for UK viewers. The film, produced by ITN Productions, has been updated since its initial release to include new developments in the trial of Dr Salvador Plascencia, who stands accused of supplying Matthew with ketamine. The documentary will delve into Matthew's life story, the circumstances surrounding his untimely death at his Los Angeles home in October 2023, and the profound impact he had on fans worldwide. Best known for his role as Chandler Bing in the iconic US sitcom Friends, Matthew shared the screen with stars such as Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer and Lisa Kudrow, reports the Express. Morgan Fairchild, who portrayed Matthew's on-screen mum in Friends, features in Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy, where she opens up about the actor's battle with drug addiction and her experiences working with him on the popular TV show. The documentary also includes interviews with Hollywood insiders and medical experts. US Sun journalist Katy Forrester and Martin Estrada, the District Attorney at the Central District of California US Attorney's office at the time of Matthew's death, make appearances. Sasha Breslau, ITV Head of Content Acquisitions, said: "We're delighted to bring this comprehensive and captivating film to ITVX, chronicling the life of one of television's most beloved actors, Matthew Perry. "The film hears first hand from those who knew Matthew, as well as telling the story of his untimely passing with updated developments not seen before." Meanwhile, Ian Russell, ITN Productions Head of International Programmes, said: "Matthew Perry's story is known the world over. In making this documentary, our US and UK-based production team wanted to look beneath the headlines to tell a detailed story of this Hollywood star. "Matthew Perry's story is truly a Hollywood tragedy. We set out to present the complexities around his life, the tragic circumstances around his death and his place in popular culture with sensitivity and insight."
Yahoo
21-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Vanessa Feltz to interview actress Helen Flanagan as first guest on new 5 show
Vanessa Feltz is to interview actress Helen Flanagan as the first guest on her new 5 show after the presenter departed This Morning. The 63-year-old will launch Vanessa at 12.30pm on Monday March 24, after she left her presenting role on the ITV daytime magazine show after more than 30 years. Flanagan, 34, who is best known for playing Rosie Webster on ITV soap Coronation Street between 2000 and 2018, will chat to Feltz about co-parenting her three children with her ex-husband, footballer Scott Sinclair, as well as welcoming her new partner's children into the family. Speaking about the new show on The Jeremy Vine Show on Friday, Feltz said: 'Helen's also very candid about all sorts of issues that she's had in life. 'It hasn't necessarily gone straightforwardly in every way, she had a sad split from the father of her children, she's found love again. 'She's going to be a revelation. I think she's going to be fabulous.' Feltz had previously told the PA news agency her new show would welcome any subject of conversation with the exception of politics. She said: 'It's not going to be politics, and it's not going to be news stories of the day, it's not that. 'So that is great, because lots of people are completely overwhelmed by the news agenda – it's a bit worrying and unsettling … you keep hearing all these sad and worrying stories, and you're not sure what to do about them, because what the hell can you do? And you feel horrid. 'So I'm hoping that this will be a kind of oasis of refuge in the middle of the day, away from the news and into the things that we really like, like love, and friendship, and dating, and family relationships, and parenting. 'You know, all the stuff that really concerns us, that we think about and worry about.' From March 24, Vanessa will air from Monday to Friday at lunchtimes on 5, produced by ITN Productions.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
New Doc Exposes the Secret Drug Scene That May Have Led to Matthew Perry's Tragic Death
Peacock has unveiled the official trailer for Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy, a new one-hour documentary special that examines the life, struggles, and untimely death of beloved Friends actor Matthew Perry. Set to premiere on February 25, 2025, the documentary explores the legal case surrounding Perry's passing, including allegations of an underground Hollywood ketamine network that may have contributed to his demise. The special, produced by ITN Productions, features exclusive interviews with Hollywood insiders, law enforcement officials, and legal experts, including U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada, who has been leading the case against five individuals allegedly connected to Perry's death. Matthew Perry, best known for playing the quick-witted Chandler Bing on Friends, captivated audiences with his comedic timing and charismatic presence. However, behind the scenes, Perry struggled with substance abuse for decades. In his 2022 memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, he candidly detailed his battles with addiction, multiple rehab stays, and near-death experiences. On October 28, 2023, Perry was found unresponsive in his Los Angeles home. The news of his death at age 54 shocked fans and Hollywood alike. Initial reports suggested he drowned in his jacuzzi, but later toxicology results revealed high levels of ketamine in his system. This discovery raised significant questions about how he obtained the drug and whether medical professionals or enablers played a role in his death. A major focus of Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy is the alleged underground ketamine scene in Los Angeles, which has become increasingly scrutinized following Perry's death. Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic, has gained popularity in recent years for its off-label use in treating depression and chronic pain. However, its potential for misuse, particularly in high doses, has raised concerns among medical professionals and law enforcement. The documentary investigates how ketamine is procured and distributed within Hollywood's elite circles, shedding light on the risks of unchecked access to powerful substances. The involvement of Perry's personal assistant and alleged drug suppliers highlights how even those in recovery can become entangled in dangerous drug networks. The U.S. Attorney's Office has charged five individuals in relation to Perry's ketamine use, including two doctors, a woman known as the 'Ketamine Queen,' and Perry's personal assistant. Authorities allege that these individuals conspired to illegally supply Perry with the drug, despite knowing the potential dangers. Among those charged: Perry's personal assistant, who allegedly coordinated ketamine deliveries Two medical doctors, accused of improperly prescribing ketamine A Hollywood drug dealer, known for catering to elite clients The so-called 'Ketamine Queen', an alleged key figure in L.A.'s underground ketamine trade While three of the defendants have already pleaded guilty and are cooperating with investigators, two have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada, who is featured in the documentary, outlines the charges and the legal strategies being pursued to hold those responsible accountable. To provide a comprehensive look at Perry's final days, Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy features exclusive interviews with individuals closely connected to the case. Actress Morgan Fairchild, who played Perry's mother on Friends, shares her reflections on his life, career, and struggles. Additional perspectives come from: Law enforcement officials, who discuss the broader issue of drug accessibility in Hollywood Medical experts, who explain the effects of ketamine and its risks Hollywood insiders, who provide insight into Perry's personal and professional life By weaving together these interviews, the documentary aims to paint a full picture of Perry's final days, from his efforts to maintain sobriety to the circumstances that led to his tragic death. Beyond the legal case, Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy serves as a tribute to Perry's legacy. The documentary revisits his rise to fame, his philanthropic efforts—including the Perry House, a sober living facility he founded—and the lasting impact he had on audiences worldwide. Through archival footage, personal anecdotes, and expert analysis, the special balances the tragedy of Perry's passing with a celebration of his contributions to the entertainment industry. Title: Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy Premiere Date: February 25, 2025 Network: Peacock Director: Robert Palumbo Executive Producers: Ian Russell, Mike Griffiths, and Robert Palumbo Produced By: ITN Productions Format: 1 x 60-minute special As the legal case unfolds, Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy promises to provide an in-depth look at the investigation while honoring the life of one of television's most cherished stars. Fans and viewers can expect a compelling mix of investigative journalism, heartfelt tributes, and critical discussions about addiction and accountability in Hollywood. The post New Doc Exposes the Secret Drug Scene That May Have Led to Matthew Perry's Tragic Death appeared first on Where Is The Buzz | Breaking News, Entertainment, Exclusive Interviews & More.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Matthew Perry Doc Says He Was a Victim of LA's Drug Trade: ‘Preyed On Somebody Vulnerable'
Peacock is moving forward with a documentary about its late 'Friends' star, Matthew Perry. 'Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy' is set to premiere Feb. 25 on Peacock. 'I genuinely don't think a lot of people realize what fame really is … They really preyed on somebody vulnerable' one documentary subject says in the trailer for the film. 'All of your worst instincts are going to be catered to,' another subject says, echoing that sentiment. Watch the full trailer below: 'A Hollywood Tragedy' promises to explore Los Angeles' ketamine scene, the drug that was responsible for the late Perry's overdose. The film also includes interviews from Morgan Fairchild, who played Perry's mother on 'Friends' as well as insights from law enforcement experts and Hollywood insiders. Additionally, the documentary will dive into the court case that followed in the wake of Perry's death. The upcoming film is produced by ITN Productions. Its executive producers include Ian Russell, Mike Griffiths and Robert Palumbo from ITN Productions. In October 2023, Perry was found unresponsive in a hot tub in his Los Angeles home and pronounced dead at the age of 54. An autopsy later found ketamine was in the celebrity's system, which led to an investigation by the LAPD. Indictments and charges were filed against five people in total: Perry's personal assistant, two doctors and two drug dealers. Three of those charged for Perry's death have pled guilty. The Peacock documentary will feature an interview from U.S. attorney Martin Estrada, who is representing the two defendants who have pled not guilty and are awaiting trial. The post Matthew Perry Doc Says He Was a Victim of LA's Drug Trade: 'Preyed On Somebody Vulnerable' | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
