Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com Thu, 17 May 2012 14:08:17 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2 Faces To Watch at the Spring 2012 Upfronts, Part 2 http://octagonfirstcall.com/faces-to-watch-at-the-spring-2012-upfronts-part-2/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/faces-to-watch-at-the-spring-2012-upfronts-part-2/#comments Thu, 17 May 2012 14:04:05 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7403 » Read More]]> Yesterday we spoke about a few promising personalities that have potential to seamlessly crossover, or continue, work in the brand world. Here are a few more interesting picks to look out for.
 
 Lucy Liu
The Asian-American actress best known for her roles on the television drama Ally McBeal and the film franchises Charlie’s Angels, Kill Bill (Vol. 1 and 2), and Kung Fu Panda returns to the small screen this fall after successful stint in Southland.  This time around, she will appear in new CBS drama Elementary, a modern American take on Sherlock Holmes, in which Liu will jump over gender expectations to play Watson.
Liu’s most recent brand work includes serving as spokesperson for the Heinz Micronutrient Campaign in 2010. Additionally, she has done work for UNICEF and Nestea. 
 
 
Hayden Panettiere
The fresh-faced blond actress most recently appeared in 2011’s Scream 4 and is best known for portraying the character Claire Bennett on NBC’s hit series Heroes for 4 seasons. Hayden will test her vocal abilities in ABC’s new ABC musical drama series Nashville, part of the Disney network’s push to opt for nighttime dramas. She portrays lead character Juliette Barnes, a rising teen country sensation that rivals the career of fading country star Rayna James, played by Connie Britton. A veteran of partnerships, Panettiere has done extensive commercial brand work including Neutrogena (2006), Got Milk (2007) and Candie’s (2008).
 
Kristen Kruek
Kruek is best known for portraying Lana Lang, primary love interest for Superman-to-be Clark Kent in the WB/CW series Smallville for 8 seasons.
This fall, she returns to the CW as star of the new drama Beauty and the Beast, a the 1988 CBS drama of the same name.  Kruek will portray Beauty and the series lead Catherine Chandler, a New York City homicide detective. She served as the longest-running spokesperson for Neutrogena.
 
Stephen Amell
Actor Stephen Amell is known for his guest appearances on series such as New Girl, Private Practice, and Queer as Folk will play the lead role in the comic-inspired drama Arrow, based on the DC superhero Green Arrow/Oliver Queen. With no previous brand work, should the series hit with viewers, there is potential for Amell to achieve action star/leading man status and open up opportunities similar to Tom Welling’s experience with Smallville, a series ahead of the now ubiquitous superhero zeitgeist. 
]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/faces-to-watch-at-the-spring-2012-upfronts-part-2/feed/ 0 Faces To Watch at the Spring 2012 Upfronts, Part 1 http://octagonfirstcall.com/faces-to-watch-at-the-spring-2012-upfronts/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/faces-to-watch-at-the-spring-2012-upfronts/#comments Wed, 16 May 2012 14:30:03 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7398 » Read More]]> As Upfronts continue and TV networks reveal their 2012 plans, we say hello to new faces and goodbye to others. With each new series comes opportunity for new or familiar names to break through and place themselves firmly on brand's short lists. 
 
Upfronts season began with a  shockwave that Twitter collectively determined could only be a rumor: 30 Rock and Community will enter their last season next year, putting to end the platforms that have irreversibly transformed Tina Fey (Garnier, American Express) and Joel McHale (Nintendo) into comedy powerhouses, and rejuvenated the careers of Alec Baldwin (Capital One, Wegman's), Tracy Morgan ( Wheat Thins), and Chevy Chase  - as well as breathing life into a slew of new talent like Donald Glover (aka rapper Childish Gambino), Jack McBrayer, Danny Pudi (T-Mobile), Judah Friedlander (MiO Energy).  The grim 30 Rock rumors are indeed true. Community’s fate is uncertain as no formal declaration has been made, but the show has been moved to a Friday night time slot, often seen as a last ditch effort for shows. 
 
FOX enlisted New Girl's Zooey Deschanel (Apple, Cotton) to introduce Office writer/actress Mindy Kaling (Healthy Choice)  and her new series The Mindy Project, which paints the Indian-American and real-life gynecologist’s daughter as a ditzy doctor.  Reactions to the TV show has been lukewarm from ad buyers, but between a best-selling book and her many hats on The Office, Mindy is painting herself to be a Tina-Fey spawn – a designation with which Kaling hates to associate.
 
 
Also a new announcement from FOX was The Following, a serial-killer drama that execs have already hailed as “the next 24.” Created by Vampire Diaries, Dawson’s Creek, and Scream mastermind Kevin Williamson, the thriller tracks a death row inmate who escapes in order to architect a network of serial killers – a LinkedIn for the sociopathic.  Appropriately, Kevin Bacon – someone familiar with degrees of personal relationships – will play the hero, a former FBI agent pulled out of retirement to solve the grim mess. Bacon, who hasn’t dabbled much in TV with the exception of HBO movie Taking Chances and various guest appearances, will mark a new direction for his career with The Following, and depending on the success of the show, could find a second wind.  Dually, this gives Bacon new brand-potential to his already noticeable presence: Hanes, VISA,  Logitech Revue .
 
Scripted TV aside, the biggest Upfronts announcement in the last twenty-four hours came from two pop princesses, one old and one new.  With the days of shaved heads and inexplicable British accents behind her, Britney Spears has cleaned up, broken tour records, and proved that comebacks can be lucrative, solidified by Simon Cowell’s choice to bring her on a judge next season of The X Factor.  Joining Spears, and  replacing the female seats formerly held by Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger, is tween idol Demi Lovato, 19, whose merit has been questioned on basis of experience, but may just be the power move needed to give The X Factor the younger demographic, capitalizing on her successful acting resume, three-album singing career, and especially her social media presence with 6.8MM Twitter followers.
 
Third-place ABC plans to follow in the direct of Revenge and Scandal by adding two more nighttime soaps: 666 Park Avenue and Nashville.  666, a drama centered around a possibly haunted New York apartment building, will star Australian Rachel Taylor, whose schedule recently cleared up after the failure of the Charlie’s Angels reboot.   Young, pretty, and given a second chance at TV, the performance of 666 could launch the Aussie’s brand potential if the odds are in her favor this time around.
]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/faces-to-watch-at-the-spring-2012-upfronts/feed/ 0 ESPN 980: In The Locker Room http://octagonfirstcall.com/espn-980-in-the-lockerroom/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/espn-980-in-the-lockerroom/#comments Mon, 14 May 2012 15:17:48 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7393 Big thanks to ESPN 980 for having us on last Friday to talk all things NFL and marketing. From RGIII and Andrew Luck to the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Redskins - we shared insight on what factors make players and teams marketable to brands.

You can listen to the full conversation HERE.

]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/espn-980-in-the-lockerroom/feed/ 0 This Week on Talk Shows: May 13-19 http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-talk-shows-may-13-19/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-talk-shows-may-13-19/#comments Mon, 14 May 2012 04:24:44 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7386 » Read More]]> Chances are, your favorite shows’ season finales are this week (see: Gossip Girl, How I Met Your Mother, Make It or Break It, Two and a Half Men, Hart of Dixie, Mike & Molly, Hawaii Five-O, Smash, 90210, NCIS: LA, Fashion Star, Private Practice, Suburgatory, Interior Therapy, Criminal Minds, Missing, Rules of Engagement, Grey’s Anatomy, Person of Interest, The Mentalist, Scandal, Shark Tank, Nikita, Supernatural, Grimm, and Whale Wars) freeing up a little space on the DVR for a new flavor of must-see-TV. So this week we recommend catching the season premiere of America’s Got Talent at 8pm on NBC. With series newcomer Howard Stern headlining the marketing efforts and amicable judges Sharron Osbourne and Howie Mandel holding the audience regulars, the show is expected to draw big crowds and interest in Sern’s highly-anticipated primetime gig.

Check out the full talk show listings after the jump—

Monday, May 14
David Letterman: Kelly Ripa, Adam Scott, Tenacious D
Jay Leno: Kourtney, Kim & Khloe Kardashian, Donny Deutsch, Karmin
Jimmy Kimmel: Johnny Depp, Casey Wilson, Silversun Pickups (R 5/8/12)
Craig Ferguson: Craig visits Scotland with Mila Kunis, Michael Clarke Duncan, Rashida Jones, David Sedaris,Ariel Tweto, the Imagineers
Jimmy Fallon: Gordon Ramsay, Willie Nelson, Jeff Musial
Carson Daly: Artie Lange, Chely Wright, We Are Augustines
Tavis Smiley: Will Allen, Dev Patel
Daily Show: Peter Bergen (R 5/3/12)
Colbert Report: Lena Dunham (R 5/3/12)
Chelsea Lately: Craig Ferguson, Brody Stevens, Sarah Colonna, Josh Wolf
Conan O'Brien: Chelsea Handler, Billy Eichner, Doyle & Debbie (R 1/10/12)
The View: Jenna Ushkowitz, Marc Cherry
The Talk: Martha Stewart, the winner of "Survivor: One World", Jennifer Jolly
Live with Kelly: Chris Colfer, the latest "American Idol" castoff, guest co-host Jimmy Kimmel
Ellen DeGeneres: Kate Beckinsale, Taylor Kitsch, "The Voice" winner Jermaine Paul
Tuesday, May 15
David Letterman: Brian Williams, El-P
Jay Leno: Wanda Sykes, David Hasselhoff, Santana
Jimmy Kimmel: Emily Blunt, Dave Salmoni, Adam Lambert (R 4/26/12)
Craig Ferguson: Craig visits Arbroath with Scotland First Minister Alex Salmond, Rashida Jones, the Imagineers
Jimmy Fallon: Mariska Hargitay, Nick DiPaolo, Tenacious D
Carson Daly: Jake Johnson, the Glitch Mob, the Ting Tings
Tavis Smiley: Carole King
Daily Show: Admiral General Aladeen (R 5/7/12)
Colbert Report: Anna Wintour (R 5/9/12)
Chelsea Lately: Cameron Diaz, Moshe Kasher, Arden Myrin, Brad Wollack
Conan O'Brien: Bill Maher, Gregg Allman, Hannibal Buress
The View: President Barack Obama
The Talk: Michael Weatherly, Liza Minnelli
Live with Kelly: LL Cool J, James Morrison, guest co-host Sam Champion
Ellen DeGeneres: Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, John Mayer, Victoria Justice
Wednesday, May 16
David Letterman: Betty White, Best Coast
Jay Leno: Joel McHale, Jarod Miller, Bobby Brown
Jimmy Kimmel: Rita Wilson
Craig Ferguson: Craig visits Cumbernauld with Michael Clarke Duncan, the Imagineers
Jimmy Fallon: Taylor Kitsch, Tony Hale, Pat Martino
Carson Daly: Judah Friedlander, "The Imposter", Dr. Dog
Tavis Smiley: Michael Emerson
Daily Show: Amb. Ivo Daalder (R 5/8/12)
Colbert Report: Andy Cohen (R 5/7/12)
Chelsea Lately: Brooklyn Decker, Dan Levy, Fortune Feimster, T.J. Miller
Conan O'Brien: Liam Neeson, Marc Maron, Brody Stevens
The View: Arsenio Hall, Capt. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger
The Talk: Rachael Ray, Gayle King, Justin Silver
Live with Kelly: Billy Bob Thornton, Eli Manning, guest co-host Chris Harrison
Ellen DeGeneres: Steve Carell, Brooklyn Decker, Bobby Brown
Thursday, May 17
David Letterman: Conan O'Brien, Regina Spektor, John Mayer
Jay Leno: Hugh Laurie, Robert Griffin III
Jimmy Kimmel: Matthew Morrison, Beth Ostrosky Stern, Delta Spirit
Craig Ferguson: Craig visits Glasgow & Edinburgh with Mila Kunis, the Imagineers
Jimmy Fallon: Arsenio Hall, Paul Weller
Carson Daly: Peter Berg, "Ballplayer: Pelotero", Young the Giant
Tavis Smiley: David Talbot, Bonnie St. John
Daily Show: Dr. John R. Hall (R 5/9/12)
Colbert Report: Michelle Alexander (R 5/8/12)
Chelsea Lately: Giada De Laurentiis, Natasha Leggero, April Richardson, Ross Mathews
Conan O'Brien: Brooklyn Decker, Rufus Wainwright
The View: Betty White, Susan Lucci, a performance from the Broadway musical "Once"
The Talk: Howard Stern, Beth Ostrosky Stern, Mary Alice Stephenson
Live with Kelly: Guest co-host Chris Harrison
Ellen DeGeneres: Russell Brand
Friday, May 18
David Letterman: Julie Chen, Beach House
Jay Leno: Sherri Shepherd, Julianne Hough, Tenacious D
Jimmy Kimmel: Jason Mantzoukas, the Cult
Craig Ferguson: Craig visits Glamis Castle with David Sedaris, Ariel Tweto, the Imagineers
Jimmy Fallon: Tom Selleck, Krysten Ritter, Garbage
Carson Daly: Thom Beers, Joel Sartore, Jay Rock (R 4/3/12)
Tavis Smiley: Garry Marshall
Chelsea Lately: Adam Lambert, Chris Franjola, Loni Love, Greg Fitzsimmons (R 5/10/12)
The View: Judy Sheindlin, Robin & Lucimarian Roberts, Dina & Francesca Eastwood, Michael Corbett, guest co-host Jaleel White
The Talk: Tom Selleck, Sara Leibowitz
Live with Kelly: Tom Selleck, Krysten Ritter, guest co-host Reggie Bush
Ellen DeGeneres: Kristen Bell, Dax Shepard
]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-talk-shows-may-13-19/feed/ 0 2012 James Beard Food Awards Re-Cap http://octagonfirstcall.com/2012-james-beard-food-awards-re-cap/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/2012-james-beard-food-awards-re-cap/#comments Tue, 08 May 2012 15:34:20 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7379 » Read More]]> The James Beard Food Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of the Food World,” are held the first week of May and honor the finest chefs, restaurants, wine professionals, journalists, cookbook authors and food professionals. Votes are cast by more than 600 culinary professionals and recipients receive a coveted bronze medallion etched with an image of the late James Beard. The medal is one of the few recognized – and desired - accolades granted to chefs and other food professionals across America. Here are last night's winners:
 
NATIONAL AWARD WINNERS
Best new restaurant:
Next – Chicago, IL
 
Outstanding chef:
Daniel Humm of Eleven Madison Park – New York, NY
 
Outstanding pastry chef:
Mindy Segal (@MindySegal) of Mindy’s Hot Chocolate – Chicago, IL
 
Outstanding restaurant:
Boulevard – San Francisco, CA
 
Outstanding restaurateur:
Tom Douglas (@TomDouglasCo) of Tom Douglas Restaurants – Seattle, WA
 
Outstanding service:
Le Grenouille – New York, NY
 
Outstanding wine and spirits professional:
Paul Grieco (@Spitpaul) of Terroir (@terroirNY) – New York, NY
 
Outstanding wine program:
No 9. Park – Boston, MA
 
Outstanding bar program:
PDT – New York, NY
 
Rising star chef of the year:
Christina Tosi of Momofuku Milk Bar (@momomilkbar) – New York, NY
 
Additional winners and analysis after the jump!
 
 REGIONAL AWARD WINNERS
Great Lakes:
Bruce Sherman (@northpondbruce) of North Pond – Chicago, IL

 

Mid-Atlantic:
Maricel Presilla (@MaricelPresilla) of Cucharamama – Hoboken, NJ
 
Midwest:
Tony Miller of L’Etoile – Madison, WI
 
New York City:
Michael Anthony (@chefmikeanthony) of Gramercy Tavern (@GramercyTavern) – New York, NY
 
Northeast:
Tim Cushman of O Ya – Boston, MA
 
Northwest:
Matt Dillon of Sitka & Spruce – Seattle, WA
 
Pacific:
Matt Molina of Osteria Mozza (@OsteriaMozza) – Los Angeles, CA
 
South:
Chris Hastings (@chrishastings00) of Hot and Hot Fish Club – Birmingham, AL
 
Southeast:
Hugh Acheson (@HughAcheson) of Five and Ten – Athens, GA
and
Linton Hopkins (@chefhopkins) of Restaurant Eugene – Atlanta, GA
 
Southwest:
Paul Qui (@pqui) of Uchiko – Austin, TX
 
LIFETIME & WHO'S WHO AWARD WINNERS
 
James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award:  Wolfgang Puck (@WolfgangBuzz)
 
James Beard Foundation Humanitarian of the Year:  Charlie Trotter (@CTrotters)
 
James Beard Foundation Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America Inductees:
Grant Achatz (@Gachatz), chef and author – Chicago, IL
Mark Bittman (@bittman), journalist and author – New York, NY
Dana Cowin (@fwscout), editor-in-chief at Food & Wine magazine (@fandw) – New York, NY
Emily Luchetti (@EmilyLuchetti), pastry chef and author – San Francisco, CA
Marvin Shanken, publisher – New York, NY
  
Familiar Faces Win Big…..
 The 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award went to famed chef Wolfgang Puck. Puck, the celebrity chef, restaurateur and occasional actor also has catering services, cookbooks and a slew of licensed products. In 2011 – Puck appeared on a number of shows including Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Hell’s Kitchen, and The Next Food Network Star. Puck has won multiple honors from the foundation over the years and is the only chef to have twice received its Most Outstanding Chef award.
 
The 2012 Humanitarian of the Year Award went to veteran chef Charlie Trotter for his youth-focused philanthropic work. The Charlie Trotter Culinary Education Foundation provides scholarships to underprivileged students entering culinary programs. The Excellence Program invites groups of Chicago public high school students to enjoy a meal and learn about how the food was prepared and where it came from. Trotter announced earlier this year that he will close his acclaimed Chicago restaurant after it celebrates its 25th anniversary in August. Trotter plans to return to school to earn a master's degree in philosophy.
 
Rising Stars…
 Last night’s winner of the Rising Star Award was Momofuku Milk Bar’s Christina Tosi. The Rising Star Award has been a marker for future success; Tosi’s manager and mentor, Momofuku’s David Chang was 2007’s Rising Star Award winner. Chang went onto win subsequent James Beard Awards in 2008 and 2009 for Best New York Restaurant and Best New Restaurant. In the past five years, Rising Star Award winners have made their way onto the small screen to compete, star or judge on some of the hottest culinary shows. Past winners include Marcus Samuelson (Food Network’s Next Iron Chef, judge on Chopped), Traci Des Jardins (Bravo’s Top Chef: Masters, Food Network’s Next Iron Chef), Nate Appleton (Food Network’s Next Iron Chef, guest judge on Chopped) and Gavin Kaysen (Food Network’s Next Iron Chef, Bravo’s Top Chef).

]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/2012-james-beard-food-awards-re-cap/feed/ 0 LA Times: Celebs Muffle the Voice of Experience http://octagonfirstcall.com/la-times-celebs-muffle-the-voice-of-experience/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/la-times-celebs-muffle-the-voice-of-experience/#comments Mon, 07 May 2012 13:56:38 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7390 Last week, we were able to be part of a conversation with LA Times' Joe Flint on the increasing prevalence of celebrity commercial voice overs.  While some argue that the voices aren't worth it and "don't increase sales," we shared insight as to why that might not matter. You can read the full article HERE.

 

]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/la-times-celebs-muffle-the-voice-of-experience/feed/ 0 This Week on TV: May 6- May 12 http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-tv-may-6-may-12/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-tv-may-6-may-12/#comments Sun, 06 May 2012 21:57:21 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7376 » Read More]]> Another full week of quality TV is upon is, but if you only have time for one show this week, we recommend the series premier of the new USA Network comedy/drama Common Law on Friday, May 11. The series stars Michael Ealy, fresh off a starring role in the hit movie Think Like a Man, and Warren Cole, who previously appeared in 24 and The Chicago Code, as two LAPD cops. Unlike other shows in the cop genre, however, these partners can’t stand one another and are forced by their captain (played by Jack McGee) to attend couple’s therapy. A unique twist on the cop show formula, Common Law promises to be a different kind of show for the USA Network. Keep on the look for another batch of rising and re-introduced personalities.

The full talk show listing after the jump--

Monday, May 7
Today: Cameron Diaz, Sacha Baron Cohen, Glenn Frey
David Letterman: Dr. Phil McGraw, Ariel Tweto, Spiritualized
Jay Leno: Michelle Pfeiffer, Bear Grylls, Snow Patrol
Jimmy Kimmel: Kristen Stewart, Chloe Grace Moretz, B.o.B.
Craig Ferguson: Poppy Montgomery, Steve Guttenberg
Jimmy Fallon: Jennifer Connelly, Brian Wilson, Mike Love, the Beach Boys
Tavis Smiley: Jonathan Haidt, Anthony Salcito
Daily Show: Admiral General Aladeen
Colbert Report: Andy Cohen
Chelsea Lately: James Van Der Beek, Jen Kirkman, Mo Mandel, Brad Wollack
Conan O'Brien: Metta World Peace, Matt Walsh, the Lumineers
The View: Dr. Phil McGraw, Norah Jones
The Talk: Aaron McCargo Jr., guest co-host Carnie Wilson
Live with Kelly: Cameron Diaz, the latest "American Idol" castoff, guest co-host Michael Strahan
Ellen DeGeneres: Eva Mendes, Beth Stern
Watch What Happens Live: Kelly Ripa, Anderson Cooper

 

Tuesday, May 8
Today: Martin Sheen, Emilio Estevez, Suzanne Somers
David Letterman: Jim Parsons, Macy Gray
Jay Leno: Rick Santorum, Taylor Kitsch, B.o.B., O.A.R.
Jimmy Kimmel: Johnny Depp, Casey Wilson, Silversun Pickups
Craig Ferguson: Steven Tyler
Jimmy Fallon: Cameron Diaz, Michael Phelps, Of Monsters and Men
Tavis Smiley: Sheryl WuDunn
Daily Show: Amb. Ivo Daalder
Colbert Report: Michelle Alexander
Chelsea Lately: Morgan Spurlock, Ross Mathews, Heather McDonald, Jo Koy
Conan O'Brien: Piers Morgan, Ben Falcone, Ed Sheeran
The View: Ricky Martin, Giada De Laurentiis, a performance by the Broadway cast of "Evita"
The Talk: Courtney Love, Linda Perry, Sabrina Soto, guest co-host Carnie Wilson
Live with Kelly: Stephen Colbert, Miss USA contestants, guest co-host Michael Strahan
Ellen DeGeneres: Johnny Depp, Chloe Grace Moretz, Michelle Pfeiffer, Alison Sweeney, Flo Rida
Watch What Happens Live: Cat Cora, Alexis Bellino

 

Wednesday, May 9
Today: Brooklyn Decker, Mark Bittman
David Letterman: Eva Longoria, Tom Dreesen, Florence and the Machine
Jay Leno: Alison Brie, the winner of "The Voice"
Jimmy Kimmel: Steve Harvey, Dev Patel, Glenn Frey
Craig Ferguson: Jenna Fischer, Danny Huston
Jimmy Fallon: Howard Stern, Brooklyn Decker, Giada De Laurentiis, Mick Taylor
Tavis Smiley: Michael Sandel
Daily Show: Dr. John R. Hall
Colbert Report: Anna Wintour
Chelsea Lately: Ian Somerhalder, John Caparulo, Rachel Feinstein, Josh Wolf
Conan O'Brien: Joel McHale, Nina Dobrev, Reggie Watts
The View: Christina Ricci, John Stossel
The Talk: Craig Ferguson, Eric Buterbaugh
Live with Kelly: Chace Crawford, Karmin, guest co-host Michael Strahan
Ellen DeGeneres: Nicki Minaj
Watch What Happens Live: Rita Wilson, Curtis Stone
Thursday, May 10
Today: Howard Stern, Dave Zinczenko, Rosie Pope
David Letterman: Kid Scientists, Elizabeth Banks, Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
Jay Leno: Howie Mandel, Vinny Guadagnino, Sara Watkins
Jimmy Kimmel: Dr. Phil McGraw, Carrie Underwood
Craig Ferguson: Christiane Amanpour, Anna Kendrick
Jimmy Fallon: Will Ferrell, Ellie Kemper, Awolnation
Tavis Smiley: Warren Littlefield
Daily Show: Robert Caro
Colbert Report: Dr. Francis Collins
Chelsea Lately: Adam Lambert, Chris Franjola, Loni Love, Greg Fitzsimmons
Conan O'Brien: Tom Selleck, Zosia Mamet, the Wombats
The View: Howard Stern
The Talk: Daniel Dae Kim, David Tutera
Live with Kelly: Ginnifer Goodwin, guest co-host Nick Lachey
Ellen DeGeneres: TBA

 

Friday, May 11
Today: Jane Pauly, Mike Lupica, winner of The Voice
Jay Leno: Jenna Fischer
Craig Ferguson: Larry King
Jimmy Fallon: Stephen Colbert, Nick Cannon, Big K.R.I.T.
Tavis Smiley: Ryan O'Neal
Chelsea Lately: Jennifer Love Hewitt, Jeff Wild, Kerri Kenney-Silver, Ross Mathews (R 5/3/12)
The View: Eva Longoria, E.L. James, Carmen Wong Ulrich, Robin & Lucimarian Roberts, guest co-host Bob Saget
The Talk: Eva Mendes, Cierra Ramirez
Live with Kelly: Felicity Huffman, guest co-host Nick Lachey
Ellen DeGeneres: Hilary Duff, Nick Cannon

 

]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-tv-may-6-may-12/feed/ 0 Summer Blockbusters 2012: Men in Black 3 http://octagonfirstcall.com/summer-blockbusters-2012-men-in-black-3/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/summer-blockbusters-2012-men-in-black-3/#comments Tue, 01 May 2012 13:58:34 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7365 » Read More]]> Today marks the start of May and with the long awaited release of The Avengers this Friday, summer movie season has commenced. The next major comic book release, Men in Black 3, will hit theaters May 25 after a decade-long hiatus. Following in the footsteps of The Avengers, the film is sure to see a strong performance in its opening weekend and will continue the trend of summer superhero movies that will culminate in July with The Dark Night Rises, the last installment of Batman. Here's the second breakdown in our Summer Blockbusters series:
 

 
 
 
 
Men in Black 3
Release Date: May 25, 2012
Facebook: 1,500+ likes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Starring:
Will Smith (Twitter: 812,200+ followers, Facebook: 28,600,000+ likes)
Tommy Lee Jones (Twitter: 560+ followers, Facebook: 38,700+ likes)
Josh Brolin (Twitter: 700+ followers, Facebook: 7,500+ likes)
Emma Thompson (Twitter: n/a, Facebook: 11,600+ likes)
Nicole Scherzinger  (Twitter: 1,400,000+ followers, Facebook: 2,600,000+ likes)
 
Promotional Partners
Activision - The company is contracted to produce a video game based on the film.
Pitbull - Pitbull penned and recorded the film’s theme song Back in Time, and has done several press/promotional appearances in support of the single and film.
Sony 3D TV - A launch party for the line of televisions premiered a teaser for the film featuring Will Smith talking about 3D and teasing at the upcoming film.
Baskin Robbins - Starting TODAY, Baskin Robins will feature frozen treats inspired by the film.
Nickelodeon Kid's Choice Awards -  Smith hosted the Awards last month in an effort to resonate with a younger demographic and promote the film
#MIB3 hash tag - the hashtag has taken off on Twitter, and will continue to build up as the release date approaches 
 
Buzz
After a ten-year hiatus, the popular Men in Black franchise returns with its third installment. Officially confirmed by Sony in 2009,  the film generated extensive buzz following the release of a teaser featuring Will Smith in summer 2010. The low-budget teaser featured Smith addressing the audience, wearing 3D glasses and putting a spin on his well-known quip: “I’m about to make 3D look good." Though little is known about the film’s plot, viewers can expect cameos from pop culture icons Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Tim Burton and Adam West. Additionally, Nicole Scherzinger debuts in her first major feature film role. Since the last Men in Black, Smith has become the epitome of "action star," including films such as   I Robot (2004), I am Legend (2007) and Hancock (2008). Men in Black 3 will be Smith’s first action role (and acting role) since 2008. 

 

]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/summer-blockbusters-2012-men-in-black-3/feed/ 0 This Week on Talk Shows: April 29-May 5 http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-talk-shows-april-29-may-5/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-talk-shows-april-29-may-5/#comments Sun, 29 Apr 2012 22:58:37 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7362 » Read More]]> If you only have time for one show this week, we recommend the cinco de mayo episode of Saturday Night Live hosted by New York Giants quarterback and Super Bowl champion Eli Manning with musical guest Rihanna. Eli follows in the footsteps of his older brother Peyton, who hosted the show back in 2007 in the wake of his own Super Bowl championship. Peyton’s episode earned the show its highest ratings of that season. Eli, while known as the quiet one, has an excellent opportunity to step out of his normally subdued persona. Be sure to tune in to check out Eli’s comedy chops- as good as Peyton? As usual, he has a lot to live up to!

Check out the full Talk Show listing after the jump---

Monday, April 30
Today: Ryan O’Neal, Bobby Flay
David Letterman: Don Rickles, Carrie Underwood
Jay Leno: Steve Martin, Rashida Jones, Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers
Jimmy Kimmel: Vanessa Williams, Jonny Lee Miller, Andrew Bird
Craig Ferguson: Jim Gaffigan, Cat Cora
Jimmy Fallon: Chris Evans, Allison Williams, Tom Morello featuring Ben Harper
Carson Daly: Dave Giuntoli, Meg Myers, Bomba Estereo
Tavis Smiley: Bill Bennett
Daily Show: Zach Wahls
Colbert Report: Diane Keaton
Conan O'Brien: Alec Baldwin, Damon Wayans Jr., Yelawolf (R 12/5/11)
The View: Lady Colin Campbell, B.o.B.
The Talk: Michael Ealy, guest co-host Trisha Yearwood
Live with Kelly: Donald Trump, the latest "American Idol" castoff, guest co-host Pat Kiernan
Ellen DeGeneres: Diane Keaton, Donald Driver & Peta Murgatroyd
Watch What Happens Live: Kathleen Turner, Jennifer Tilly

 

Tuesday, May 1
Today: Bethenny Frankel
David Letterman: Seth Meyers, Father John Misty
Jay Leno: Cameron Diaz, William Shatner, Lee Brice
Jimmy Kimmel: The latest "Dancing with the Stars" castoff, Civil Twilight
Craig Ferguson: Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Lennon Parham
Jimmy Fallon: Mark Ruffalo, Mario Batali, Steve & JoAnn Ward, Santigold
Carson Daly: Jim Gaffigan, LP, Ed Sheeran
Tavis Smiley: Anna Quindlen
Daily Show: David Barton
Colbert Report: Carne Ross
Conan O'Brien: Sofia Vergara, Paul F. Tompkins, Tig Notaro (R 12/6/11)
The View: Ryan O'Neal, Lady Antebellum
The Talk: Poppy Montgomery, Louisa Graves
Live with Kelly: Daniel Dae Kim, Samantha Ronson, guest co-host Pat Kiernan
Ellen DeGeneres: Jessica Alba, Paul "DJ Pauly D" DelVecchio
Watch What Happens Live: Tamra Barney, Heather McDonald

 

Wednesday, May 2
Today: Lisa Rinna, Ian Kerner, the winner of ‘The Biggest Loser’
David Letterman: Norah Jones
Jay Leno: Scarlett Johansson, Blake Shelton, K'Naan featuring Nelly Furtado
Jimmy Kimmel: Eva Green, Brad
Craig Ferguson: Anjelica Huston, Reno Wilson
Jimmy Fallon: Amy Poehler, Daniel Dae Kim, Lady Antebellum
Tavis Smiley: Robin Roberts, Jason Mraz
Daily Show: Sen. Tom Coburn
Colbert Report: Jonathan Haidt
Conan O'Brien: Seth Rogen, Kid Cudi, Daryl Hall (R 9/28/11)
The View: Bethenny Frankel, Gregg Allman, Eden Sher
The Talk: Annie Potts, Tony Horton, guest co-host Al Michaels
Live with Kelly: Mark Ruffalo, Lisa Rinna, the winner of "The Biggest Loser", guest co-host Josh Groban
Ellen DeGeneres: Julianna Margulies
Watch What Happens Live: Ryan Serhant, Michael Lorber, Fredrik Eklund
Thursday, May 3
Today: Giuliano Hazan
David Letterman: Stephen Colbert, Chloe Grace Moretz, a performance by the Broadway cast of "Nice Work If You Can Get It"
Jay Leno: Robert Downey Jr., Katharine McPhee
Jimmy Kimmel: Scarlett Johansson, Roger Daltrey
Craig Ferguson: Julie Andrews, Michael Emerson
Jimmy Fallon: Carson Daly
Tavis Smiley: Anthony Salcito
Daily Show: Peter Bergen
Colbert Report: Lena Dunham
Conan O'Brien: Zach Galifianakis, Aaron Paul, Switchfoot (R 10/25/11)
The View: Tracy Morgan
The Talk: Jim Caviezel, Mark Jackson & William "Bopper" Minton, Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, guest co-host Shannen Doherty
Live with Kelly: Sissy Spacek, Beth Behrs, guest co-host Josh Groban
Ellen DeGeneres: Bill Clinton, Beth Stern
Watch What Happens Live: Susan Lucci, Mark Ruffalo

 

Friday, May 4
Today: Cynthia Sass
David Letterman: Electric Guest
Jay Leno: Kristen Stewart, James Morrison
Craig Ferguson: Zooey Deschanel, Patrick Warburton
Jimmy Fallon: Nathan Fillion, Taran Killam, Kathleen Edwards
Tavis Smiley: Jonathan Haidt, Damian Lewis
The View: Guest co-host Bruce Jenner
The Talk: Jennifer Love Hewitt, Susan Feniger, guest co-host Carnie Wilson
Live with Kelly: Nathan Fillion, guest co-host Ben Mulroney
Ellen DeGeneres: Scarlett Johansson, Robert Downey Jr.
]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/this-week-on-talk-shows-april-29-may-5/feed/ 0 Marketing Potential for Madden ’13 Cover Player http://octagonfirstcall.com/marketing-potential-for-madden-13-cover-player/ http://octagonfirstcall.com/marketing-potential-for-madden-13-cover-player/#comments Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:32:51 +0000 Octagon First Call http://octagonfirstcall.com/?p=7357 » Read More]]> Today, ESPN’s SportsNation will unveil the cover athlete of EA Sports’ 2013 NFL Madden football video game.  Since EA Sports acquired the NFL licensing rights in 1993, the game has gained cult-like status:  over 85 million copies have been sold, generating over $3 billion in sales from more than 7 million dedicated users, according to Grantland.
 
Starting last year, EA put the cover athlete choice in the hands of the public.  Through a bracket-style tournament featuring 32 of the top NFL stars, fans vote on Facebook, at ESPN.com/MaddenVote as well as on Twitter using the hash tag #MyMaddenCoverVote. Each week the winners of each round are announced on ESPN’s SportsNation.  The participating athletes have also appeared on the show throughout the voting to sway fans. Last year’s contest yielded 12.7 million votes, while the year has already cast over 19 million. 
 
Past winners have seen their endorsement deals increase with the exposure of the Madden cover.  Peyton Hillis, a relative unknown, had a breakout year in 2010 and despite his team’s 5-10 record, managed to win the 2012 cover.  Since then, he has scored deals with RipFire and Shamrock Farms.  Fresh off his Super Bowl win, Drew Brees was the 2011 winner.  Brees has inked deals with Pepsi, Advocare, TRX, and Vicks.  This year’s finalists are Carolina Panthers Quarterback Cam Newton and Detroit Lions Wide Receiver Calvin Johnson.  The charismatic Newton has already landed deals with Under Armour and Gatorade.  Johnson has done work with Acura and Nike. The two only stand to benefit from a cover appearance – unless they fall victim to the “Madden Curse.”
 
Sidenote:  ESPN and the NFL are winners this week as the network, which broadcasts the NFL Draft, will feature previous top draft picks (Newton was #1 in 2011 and Johnson was #2 in 2007) the day before the NFL Draft kicks off. 

 

]]> http://octagonfirstcall.com/marketing-potential-for-madden-13-cover-player/feed/ 0