It appears that BET and TV ONE are turning up the heat when it comes to bringing in not only Black television audiences but general audiences as well. Viewers will be able to look forward to a variety of celebrity- and reality-based programming gracing both stations in the fall. Hollywood by Choice will bring you updates on these new and returning popular shows.
TV ONE announces the return of the critically acclaimed investigative docu-series “Celebrity Crime Files” for its second season.
Probing into some of the most notorious crimes of our generation, “Celebrity Crime Files” excavates infamous scandals surrounding prominent figures in entertainment, sports, and politics, including Michael Jackson, The Notorious B.I.G., Bumpy Johnson and Kwame Kilpatrick.
“With the return of our popular investigative docu-series, we dig even deeper into the world of celebrity crimes—examining the stories of both the accused and the victims,” said Maureen Guthman, senior vice president of program strategy and acquisitions for TV One. “Viewers who turn to TV One for compelling storytelling are sure to be captivated by the subjects of this season.”
Of course, it remains to be seen what new information this program will unearth, especially with A-list celebrities such as the legendary Michael Jackson.
There are, however, other people of interest, and viewers will be able to probe what crimes were committed against them and, in some cases, what brought on their violent deaths.
For example, “Celebrity Crime Files,” will explore the real story behind crimes involving such celebrities as Bumpy Johnson, once deemed “the most dangerous man in New York.” Johnson’s money, power and charisma made him a bona-fide celebrity, and his story inspired many critically acclaimed films such as “American Gangster” and “Hoodlum.”
John Whitehead, the other half of the hit-making duo McFadden and Whitehead, best remembered for their hit song, “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now,” was ambushed in his backyard and killed by an unidentified gunman. Nearly a decade later, the unexplained crime remains a burden to Whitehead’s friends and family.
Scott LaRock, the late ‘80s Hip Hop pioneer and co-founder of the famous Boogie Down Productions, was murdered on the brink of international stardom. Whether LaRock was targeted or simply an unfortunate casualty remains a mystery to this day.
On July 18, 2009, veteran NBA player Lorenzen Wright reportedly made a distress call to Memphis 911, but a scream and rapid gunfire was all that was heard. His body was discovered in a field 10 days later, riddled with bullets. The crime remains a mystery and family, friends, and fans of the basketball player demand answers.
The so-called undisputed “Queen of New Orleans bounce music” and beloved member of the community, Magnolia Shorty, was ruthlessly murdered in a rental car near her New Orleans home by several mysterious gunmen. Gun violence statistics show that post-Katrina New Orleans was a violent place, but the motive behind Shorty’s murder remains a mystery.
Lyman Bostock was an outfielder for the California Angels with a sweet swing and an even sweeter personality. Bostock’s promising career was taken from him by a careless shotgun blast that was meant for another. However, his death would help change Indiana state law after the man who pulled the trigger was found not guilty of murder by reason of insanity and released after 21 months.
Music producer and Grammy nominee Michael Winans comes from a prestigious family of talented Gospel performers. However, the disgraced artist, who has worked with Diddy and Chris Brown among several other artists, is facing a 14-year prison sentence after being convicted of financial fraud for collecting millions of dollars primarily from church members in Michigan. To this day, he insists that he is not guilty of such a heartless crime.
From innocent victims to criminals without a heart, “Celebrity Crime Files” promises to keep its audience on the edge of their seats.
“Celebrity Crime Files” returns Monday, Aug. 5 on TV ONE.
