VENU Appoints Former ASM Global CEO Ron Bension as Strategic Advisor to Chief Executive Officer
Photo: Ron Bension • Photo Courtesy of VENU
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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., July 13, 2026, (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Live entertainment venue owner, operator and developer Venu Holding Corporation has appointed former ASM Global President and Chief Executive Officer Ron Bension as Strategic Advisor to Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer J.W. Roth.
In his advisory role, Bension will work directly with Roth to evaluate strategic growth opportunities for the company. He has also been nominated for election to VENU's Board of Directors at the company's 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, subject to shareholder approval.
Bension brings more than 50 years of experience in the live entertainment and venue management industry. Most recently, he led ASM Global through its $2.3 billion acquisition by Legends, completed in August 2024. His career also includes serving as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Universal Studios Recreation Group, where he oversaw theme park expansions in Japan, Orlando and Hollywood, and leadership roles at Live Nation Entertainment, Tickets.com, TicketsNow.com and GameWorks.
“I took this role because I love what J.W. is building. I think it's game-changing for the live entertainment industry and I believe I can help him maximize shareholder value. I've spent my career operating and transacting at the highest levels of this industry and I've never seen a model quite like VENU's. The combination of premium offerings, an ownership-driven capital structure, and the speed at which this team executes creates strategic opportunities that simply don't exist anywhere else in the industry,” said Ron Bension.
“Ron is one of our industry's most respected executives, guiding corporations through transitions, M&As, and expansive growth. When someone who's run the biggest venue portfolio on the planet looks at what we're building and wants in, that tells you everything about where VENU is headed. Ron sees what I see and now he's going to help us, and our shareholders, get there faster,” said J.W. Roth, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of VENU.
VENU owns, develops and operates premium entertainment destinations across Colorado, Georgia, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas, with additional expansion underway nationwide.
For more information, visit www.venu.live.
Source: Venu Holding Corporation
Lisa Vanderpump Hosts Seventh Annual Vanderpump Dog Foundation Gala in Beverly Hills
Photo Credit: The Vanderpump Dog Foundation
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., December 12, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Television personality and philanthropist Lisa Vanderpump hosted the Vanderpump Dog Foundation’s seventh annual gala on Thursday at The Maybourne Hotel in Beverly Hills, bringing together supporters, celebrities, and partners to raise funds for the organization’s animal rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
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The sold-out event began with red carpet arrivals, followed by a cocktail reception and silent auction featuring donated items including hotel stays, pet services, and beauty packages. Guests later moved into a decorated ballroom for a formal dinner program that included live music, performances, and a live auction of experiential offerings.
The gala focused on raising awareness and financial support for its ongoing rescue operations in the United States and abroad. The organization reported that its Emergency Medical Fund has provided treatment to hundreds of dogs and that more than 3,000 dogs have been adopted since the opening of the Vanderpump Dog Rescue Center on West 3rd Street in Los Angeles in 2017. The foundation also outlined recent initiatives, including spay-and-neuter programs in Baja Mexico, efforts in China, and planned international expansion.
Mario Lopez served as host for the evening. Additional presenters and performers included Lance Bass, Trixie Mattel, Emma Hunton, and C.J. Emmons. Entertainment during the dinner program was provided by the band VERSE. The Los Angeles Fire Department was recognized with the Dog Heroes Award of the Year for its service to the community and animals.
Learn more at: www.VanderpumpDogs.org
Source: The Vanderpump Dog Foundation
UTA Signs Director Emma Tammi Following Success of Five Nights at Freddy’s
Emma Tammi • Photo Credit: Ryan Green/Blumhouse
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., July 21, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Talent representation agency UTA has signed filmmaker Emma Tammi for representation in all areas.
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Tammi directed and co-wrote Five Nights at Freddy’s, the Universal and Blumhouse feature that became Blumhouse’s highest-grossing film to date. The movie, based on the popular video game franchise, debuted to $80 million domestically despite a day-and-date streaming release and ultimately earned nearly $300 million globally.
Tammi recently completed production on the sequel to Five Nights at Freddy’s, which is scheduled for release on December 5, 2025.
Tammi’s feature directorial debut, The Wind, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was released by IFC Midnight.
Tammi continues to be represented by John Burnham at Atlas Artists and attorney Andrew Howard at Jackoway Austen.
For more information, visit www.unitedtalent.com.
Source: UTA
Katie Pandolfo Named General Manager of Crypto.com Arena
Katie Pandolfo, General Manager, Crypto.com Arena | Effective June 1, 2025 • Photo Credit: AEG
LOS ANGELES, May 9, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Sports and live entertainment company AEG has announced the appointment of Katie Pandolfo as General Manager of Crypto.com Arena, effective June 1, 2025. Pandolfo succeeds Lee Zeidman, who will remain as an advisor through his planned retirement in 2025.
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Pandolfo brings more than 25 years of experience in venue management. Most recently, she served as General Manager of Dignity Health Sports Park, overseeing the delivery of thousands of events including MLS Cup Championship matches, National Football League games, Olympic and World Cup qualifying events, and major boxing matches. During her tenure, the Carson, California-based venue hosted more than 25 million guests.
In her new role, Pandolfo will oversee the day-to-day operations of Crypto.com Arena, home to the Los Angeles Lakers (NBA), LA Kings (NHL), and Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA), and the host of over 200 events annually, including the GRAMMY® Awards, concerts, sporting events, and family shows. She will report directly to Dan Beckerman, President and CEO of AEG.
"Katie brings a wealth of experience to this role having guided the operations and management of Dignity Health Sports Park for over two decades. She is a talented leader with a proven track record of success in delivering world class events and an incredible reputation for guiding and motivating her team. Her dedication and passion will be invaluable assets in leading Crypto.com Arena into the future, especially as the arena continues to build its legacy as a premier sports and entertainment destination with high-profile global events on the horizon, including the 2026 GRAMMY® Awards, the 2027 NCAA Regional Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic games," said Dan Beckerman, President and CEO of AEG.
"Crypto.com Arena is more than just a venue, it is a renowned destination and the home of championship teams and iconic performers and events that has been at the forefront in driving live sports and entertainment, delivering innovative guest services and building community. I am excited to join the talented team at Crypto.com Arena and look forward to collaborating with the arena’s management team and partners to continue delivering exceptional experiences that shape the future of culture and entertainment," said Katie Pandolfo, incoming General Manager of Crypto.com Arena.
"Lee has made an indelible and lasting impact on AEG, Crypto.com Arena and the city of Los Angeles and his retirement later this year will mark the end of a remarkable chapter in his career. I am grateful for Lee’s friendship and support over these many years and wholeheartedly thank him for his years of leadership and numerous contributions," said Dan Beckerman, President and CEO of AEG.
Pandolfo is a founding member of AEG’s Women’s Leadership Council and serves on the LA Sports and Entertainment Commission and the City of Carson’s Economic Development Commission.
For more information, visit www.aegworldwide.com.
Source: AEG
Demi Moore to Be Honored on SWAN Day 2025 for Career Achievements
Demi Moore • Photo Credit: FF2 Media
BROOKLYN, N.Y., March 4, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — International SWAN Day 2025 will recognize actress Demi Moore for her recent career resurgence and long-standing contributions to the film industry. The event, held annually on the last Saturday of March, will take place on March 29, 2025.
SWAN Day, which stands for Support Women Artists Now, highlights the work of women across various creative fields. This year’s celebration will feature screenings of Ghost in Manhattan and Metro Chicago in recognition of Moore’s role in the 1990 film.
Moore’s recent performance in The Substance, directed by Coralie Fargeat, has earned her Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice, and SAG awards in the Best Actress category, as well as her first Oscar nomination.
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“Thirty years ago, I had a producer tell me that I was a 'popcorn actress.' And at that time, I made that mean that this wasn't something I was allowed to have. That I could do movies that were successful, that made a lot of money, but that I couldn't be acknowledged, and I bought in and I believed that. And that corroded me over time, to the point where I thought, a few years ago, that maybe this was it... And as I was at kind of a low point, I had this magical, bold, courageous, out-of-the-box, absolutely bonkers script come across my desk called The Substance. And the universe told me that you’re not done,” said Moore in her 2025 Golden Globes acceptance speech.
In addition to her recent success, Moore is being recognized for her more than 45-year career. The planned screenings of Ghost, in which she starred alongside Whoopi Goldberg and Patrick Swayze, will commemorate one of her most well-known roles. The film received two Academy Awards in 1991, including Best Supporting Actress for Goldberg.
For more information, visit www.iSWANS.info/events.
Source: FF2 Media
Rap Snacks Names Hip-Hop Artist Sexyy Red as Brand Ambassador
Rapper Sexyy Red • Photo Credit: Gwendolyn Priestley PR
MIAMI, Fla., February 27, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Snack brand Rap Snacks has announced the addition of hip-hop artist Sexyy Red as its newest brand ambassador. The flavor associated with her brand partnership has not yet been determined, and the company will hold a contest to engage consumers in selecting the new snack.
James Lindsay, Founder and CEO Rap Snacks • Photo Credit: Gwendolyn Priestley PR
“Sexyy Red will be a great addition to our already amazing artist collective. She has a unique energy that we love and appreciate. Rap Snacks is unique, so it makes sense,” said James Lindsay, founder and CEO of Rap Snacks.
Sexyy Red, who gained recognition in 2023 with her single “Proud Town,” shared her enthusiasm for the partnership. “I am thrilled to be joining the Rap Snacks family. I love the snacks and the rawness of the brand. I grew up eating Rap Snacks,” said Sexyy Red.
Rap Snacks will incorporate social media engagement in determining the final flavor selection. “We have very loyal support, and our Rap Snacks community is always involved in our movement with the brand. We want to give the consumer what they want, so having a new artist, we like to get their input,” said Lindsay.
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The new Sexy Red-branded snacks are expected to launch in the spring and will be available nationally at retailers where Rap Snacks are sold.
For more information, visit www.rapsnacks.net.
Source: Gwendolyn Priestley PR
‘Lucky Dog’ Celebrates 300th Episode on CBS
Animal trainer Brandon McMillan hosts "Lucky Dog Reunions" on CBS • Photo Credit: Hearst Media Production Group
NEW YORK, February 26, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Television production company Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG) has announced that Lucky Dog, the CBS weekend series focused on dog rescue and training, will air its 300th episode on March 1, 2025. The Emmy-winning series, currently titled Lucky Dog: Reunions, is part of the "CBS WKND" educational and informational programming block.
Since its debut in 2013, Lucky Dog has featured the rescue, rehabilitation, training, and rehoming of more than 200 dogs. The show is hosted by animal trainer Brandon McMillan, who has been with the series since its inception. McMillan has received two Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Host in a Lifestyle/Travel/Children's or Family Viewing Program. The series has earned three Daytime Emmy Awards, 39 Telly Awards, seven Parents' Choice Awards, and five Cynopsis Kids Imagination Awards.
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"Lucky Dog has become a familiar brand audiences trust for pet care insights, presented in an engaging and entertaining way. We are thankful to our fans, our sponsors and the CBS Television Network for helping make this show a success," said Bryan Curb, executive vice president and general manager of education and information programming at HMPG.
HMPG produces over 30 original series annually across broadcast, streaming, and digital platforms. The company’s program portfolio includes Weekend Adventure on ABC, CBS WKND, The More You Know on NBC, and One Magnificent Morning on The CW.
For more information, visit the official show page here.
Source: Hearst Media Production Group
Pharrell Williams' Nonprofit Black Ambition Opens 2025 Prize Competition for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Photo Credit: Black Ambition
NEW YORK, February 24, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) – Nonprofit organization Black Ambition has announced that applications are now open for the 2025 Black Ambition Prize Competition. Founded by Pharrell Williams in 2020, Black Ambition provides funding, mentorship, and resources to underrepresented entrepreneurs. This year’s competition will award more than $1 million to up to 25 selected applicants.
The competition is open to early-stage entrepreneurs in consumer products and services, healthcare, media and entertainment, technology, and artificial intelligence. Selected participants will enter a 12-week mentorship program, gaining access to business development support, industry leaders, and networking opportunities. The program will culminate in Black Ambition’s 5th Annual Demo Day in November, where finalists will compete for funding.
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"Black Ambition's fifth anniversary is more than a milestone—it's proof of what happens when vision, resilience, and community come together. It's a testament to what's possible when we invest in each other. What started as a mission to close the wealth and opportunity gap has grown into a global movement, proving that underrepresented founders don't just belong in the room—they are redefining the game," said Felecia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition.
Finalists will be selected through a multi-stage process, beginning with 150-200 semifinalists who will participate in a three-month mentorship program. The top 40 founders will move on to a public voting round and pitch training, with 20 finalists receiving funding and additional pitch coaching.
"Five years ago, Black Ambition was an idea. Today, it's a force. A catalyst for change. A platform where underrepresented entrepreneurs don't just get a seat at the table—they build new tables, positioning themselves for uninterrupted success. When we invest in diverse talent, we unlock limitless potential. But this is just the beginning. Let's keep building, keep breaking barriers, and keep rewriting the rules. I can't wait to see what we do in the next five years," said Pharrell Williams, Founder of Black Ambition.
Since its inception, Black Ambition has awarded approximately $13 million to 131 entrepreneurs, with its founder network collectively raising over $280 million and generating more than $265 million in revenue. At the 2024 Demo Day, the organization awarded $2.7 million to 30 founders.
Applications for the 2025 Black Ambition Prize Competition are now open. For more information and to apply, visit www.blackambitionprize.com.
Source: Black Ambition
Marriott Bonvoy and Courtyard by Marriott Host Jason Kelce Lookalike Challenge for Super Bowl Sleepover Suite
Courtyard Super Bowl Sleepover Suite inside Caesar's Superdome ᐧ Photo Credit: Marriott International, Inc.
BETHESDA, Md., February 5, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Marriott Bonvoy and Courtyard by Marriott organized a Jason Kelce lookalike challenge in New Orleans, awarding a stay in the Courtyard Super Bowl Sleepover Suite inside Caesars Superdome and tickets to Super Bowl LIX.
Five fan duos competed in a citywide search to "Find the Real Jason Kelce," with Maris and Donnovan from Texas winning the prize. The challenge featured 25 Kelce lookalikes across the French Quarter as part of a promotional event ahead of the game.
"The Marriott Bonvoy partnership with the NFL is all about creating incredible opportunities to bring football fans closer to the game they love, and teaming up with Jason Kelce this season helped us to fulfill this promise in new and fun ways for our members. Bringing dozens of Jason Kelce lookalikes down to New Orleans to help select our Courtyard by Marriott Super Bowl Sleepover Suite winner seemed to be the only fitting end to this incredible season, and if you're down in New Orleans, you might just spot one of them running around the French Quarter this weekend!" said Peggy Roe, executive vice president and chief customer officer of Marriott International.
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The Jason Kelce lookalikes will continue appearing around New Orleans throughout Super Bowl week, giving away Marriott Bonvoy and Courtyard by Marriott merchandise, gift cards, and other prizes to fans.
The Courtyard Super Bowl Sleepover Suite, an annual tradition now in its ninth year, transforms a stadium suite into a functioning hotel room. The contest allows one fan duo to stay overnight inside the stadium before the game, making them the first guests inside the venue on game day.
For more information about Marriott Bonvoy experiences, visit moments.marriottbonvoy.com.
Source: Marriott International, Inc.
October London and Tamar Braxton Announce "The October Nights: Calling All Lovers" Tour
Photo Credit: Black Promoters Collective
NEW YORK, January 29, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Music artists October London and Tamar Braxton have announced their 24-city "The October Nights: Calling All Lovers" tour, with special guest Ro James. The tour, produced by the The Black Promoters Collective (BPC), will begin on April 17, 2025, in Norfolk, Virginia, and conclude on May 31, 2025, in Oakland, California.
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The tour will include stops in major cities such as New York, Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Ro James, a Grammy-nominated and platinum-selling artist known for his song "Permission," will join London and Braxton as a special guest.
Presale tickets for venue and promoter partners will be available beginning January 30 at 10 a.m. local time. General public ticket sales will start on January 31 at 10 a.m. local time.
The Black Promoters Collective is an independent concert promotion and event production company. The organization specializes in producing culturally relevant live entertainment experiences and ranks #39 on the Global Pollstar Top 100 Promoters list.
For more information on "The October Nights: Calling All Lovers" tour, visit www.blackpromoterscollective.com.
Ye’s Net Worth Confirmed at $2.77 Billion by Eton Venture Services
Photo Credit: Michael Wyke/The Associated Press
TOKYO, January 23, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Eton Venture Services has confirmed that Ye’s (the rapper formerly known as Kanye west) net worth stands at $2.77 billion USD as of 2025. The valuation is based on his music portfolio and his sole ownership of the Yeezy trademark, according to the firm.
Photo Credit: Eton Venture Services/Yeezy
Ye is an artist and entrepreneur who has achieved success through his music career and the Yeezy brand, which is known for its influence in the fashion and footwear industry.
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For more information, visit www.yeezy.com.
Source: Yeezy
DJ Quik and Daughter Damyiah Mornaé Release Collaborative Single Through Crowdfunding Campaign
DJ QUIK & Daughter Damyiah Mornaé • Photo Credit: #8B8 Records
LOS ANGELES, December 17, 2024 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) – Music label #8B8 Records has announced a collaborative project between DJ Quik and his daughter, Damyiah Mornaé. The father-daughter duo has launched a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign for the release of their first single, "OUTTA MY WAY," which became available to backers on December 13, 2024.
The campaign provides fans with the opportunity to support the single and access exclusive rewards through various contribution tiers. The crowdfunding initiative is was created to involve supporters directly in the artists' creative process. The single also marks Mornaé’s debut in the music industry.
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“She has undeniable talent, and the world needs to feel it,” said DJ Quik, speaking on his daughter’s creative abilities.
The Kickstarter campaign features tiered rewards for backers, providing contributors with exclusive access to content and other perks. Fans are also encouraged to share posts on Instagram using the hashtag #DJQuikandDamyiah for a chance to be featured by the artists.
"OUTTA MY WAY" is part of a larger effort to showcase Mornaé’s R&B talent and expand her presence in the music industry.
According to the company, #8B8 Records, founded in Los Angeles in 2022, specializes in releasing genre-defying music that advances creativity and innovation.
For more information, visit www.8b8records.com or the Kickstarter page at www.kickstarter.com/projects/djquikdamyiah/dj-quik-new-single-outta-my-way-official-release.
Source: #8B8 Records
Broadway Licensing Acquires Anne of Green Gables: A New Musical
Juliette Redden with Michelle Veintimilla, Pierre Marais and the cast of Goodspeed's "Anne of Green Gables" • Photo by Diane Sobolewski.
NEW YORK, December 11, 2024 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Theatrical licensing and distribution company, Broadway Licensing, has announced its acquisition of Anne of Green Gables: A New Musical. Created by Matte O'Brien and Matt Vinson, the musical offers a contemporary adaptation of L.M. Montgomery’s classic novel, which has sold more than 50 million copies in over 50 languages.
The musical premiered at Goodspeed Musicals in 2022 and was previously developed by The Rev Theatre Company in 2018. A concept recording was released in 2020 by Broadway Records. The story follows Anne Shirley, a young girl navigating life after being sent to live with Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert at Green Gables.
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“Our entire team is captivated by this vibrant and new adaptation. Welcoming Anne of Green Gables: A New Musical into our catalogue allows us, alongside lead producers Eric Cornell and Jack Sennott of Cornice Productions, to introduce this exciting new piece to audiences worldwide”, said Ted Chapin, Chief Executive Officer of Broadway Licensing.