Entertainment
Val Chmerkovskiy Explains Challenges of Returning to ‘DWTS’ With Wife Jenna on September 16, 2023 at 2:00 pm Us Weekly
Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson found love in the Dancing With the Stars ballroom, but competing against each other has its challenges.
“We support each other, but we kind of vent to one another as well. So, it could be challenging,” Val, 37, exclusively told Us Weekly on Wednesday, September 13, of Jenna, 29. “It’s like you are living the stress of two couples because, obviously, we could have a great night and I’ll be very happy, but if she and [Tyson] have a bad night, it’s going to be a tough position to be celebrating in.”
The DWTS season 32 cast was announced on Wednesday. Val is paired up with Marvel actress Xochitl Gomez, while Jenna will perform with model Tyson Beckford.
Val is hoping for a repeat trip to the finale — he finished in second place with former Bachelorette Gabby Windey on season 31 last year — and Jenna is coming back to the show after maternity leave. She announced her pregnancy in July 2022, giving birth to the couple’s son, Rome, in January.
While Val previously teased to Us in May that Jenna was itching to return for season 32, they are trying to foster a work-life balance.
“[Parenting is] our common ground and we’ve talked about being better this season [with] leaving work at work and making sure that when we get home, we are focused on our boy and just our life,” Val said on Wednesday, gushing that Rome is hitting big milestones. “He’s sitting up. That’s a huge deal [because he’s able to] hold that big head up.”
Michael Tullberg/Getty Images
According to Val, Rome has already started to follow in his parents’ dancing footsteps. “We have this [bouncer] where he jumps in it, so we put on music [and] he loves to see us dance,” he told Us. “He glows when we’re moving around. These little things have been so fun, so precious.”
Val is also enthusiastic about teaching Xochitl, 17, how to dance. “I was excited that she does all these stunts,” he noted, referring to her role as America Chavez in Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness. “I was like, ‘OK, she is familiar with physicality,’ so I was excited about it.”
ABC/Andrew Eccles
The choreographer has already found that Xochitl “works hard” in the rehearsal studio, telling Us that his partner is “very disciplined” in her training.
“I’m having a blast!” Xochitl chimed in when asked what it is like learning from the two-time mirrorball champ. “[Rehearsals have] been really fun. I’ve really liked kind of doing the work and then earning something out of it.”
She continued: “I mean, I found him to be a good teacher, exactly what a teacher should be.”
DWTS premieres on ABC and Disney+ on Tuesday, September 26, at 8 p.m. ET.
With reporting by Christina Garibaldi
Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson found love in the Dancing With the Stars ballroom, but competing against each other has its challenges. “We support each other, but we kind of vent to one another as well. So, it could be challenging,” Val, 37, exclusively told Us Weekly on Wednesday, September 13, of Jenna, 29. “It’s
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Entertainment
Why Men Should Run To See “Love Brought Me Back
“Love Brought Me Back,” produced by Wisdom Productions, is more than just a theatrical production; it’s a powerful exploration of relationships that resonates deeply with men. Through the lens of humor and emotional depth, the play tackles themes of vulnerability and communication, making it essential viewing for any man looking to enhance his understanding of love and connection. Dalis Porter, a voice in the production, shares his personal journey through therapy, emphasizing the importance of being open and honest in romantic relationships. He reflects on the typical male attitudes portrayed in the play, where men often dismiss emotional responsibility. “I spent about a year, a little over a year, uh, let’s say a year and four months in therapy trying to figure out…the mistakes that I was making in relationships,” he reveals. This candid admission sets the stage for a deeper discussion about the necessity of vulnerability.
Dalis highlights that many men struggle with expressing their feelings due to societal pressures that equate vulnerability with weakness. He asserts, “As a man, if you can be vulnerable with a woman and let her know what bothers you…that’s one of the feelings that’s non-negotiable for me.” This message is crucial as it encourages men to break free from traditional stereotypes and embrace emotional honesty. The characters in “Love Brought Me Back” embody various aspects of this struggle, showcasing how vulnerability can lead to stronger relationships. Dalis notes that the play features characters who represent “the typical man” who might say, “I got this woman over here. I ain’t worried about this,” highlighting a common mindset that can hinder genuine connection.
The innovative structure of the play enhances its relatability for male audiences. With simultaneous bachelor and bachelorette parties unfolding on stage, Dalis describes it as “two scenes in one,” creating an engaging atmosphere filled with humor and unpredictability. He remarks, “I think that’s the funnest scene…it sounds fun and crazy all at the same time.” This lively setup allows for moments of levity while also providing space for deeper conversations about relationships and emotional health.
The ensemble cast adds further depth to this exploration of love and vulnerability. Layla Carey-Johnson shines as Destiny, bringing her character’s complexities to life with authenticity and grace. Deloris Hervey plays the First Lady, contributing her own insights into the dynamics between men and women during these pivotal moments. Her enthusiasm for the dual-party scenes reflects the excitement that permeates the production: “I like the back and forth…it’s like two scenes in one,” she notes, emphasizing how this structure enhances audience engagement.
Throughout the performance, audiences witness characters grappling with their vulnerabilities amidst the chaos of party scenes. Dalis emphasizes that being able to communicate what bothers you is essential: “You have to be vulnerable enough to tell a woman what’s bothering you…if she doesn’t respect it, you can hold your head up high and walk away.” This powerful insight encourages men to take ownership of their feelings and advocate for their emotional needs within relationships.
“Love Brought Me Back” offers not only entertainment but also valuable lessons about love, vulnerability, and personal growth. Men attending this production will find relatable themes that resonate with their own experiences in relationships. The blend of humor and heartfelt moments makes it an enriching experience that prompts reflection on how they communicate with their partners.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with these important themes on Saturday, January 11 at 5:00 PM. Tickets are available now, with a special offer of two for $40 using code Love2025. Witness Layla Carey-Johnson’s touching portrayal of Destiny alongside an ensemble cast that includes Deloris Hervey, Charles Viney Jr, Whitney Jefferson, and Ashley Hasker, who bring these vital conversations to life on stage. Join us for an evening filled with laughter, insight, and a deeper understanding of what it means to love authentically.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary production. Love Brought Me Back will be performed on Saturday, January 11 at 5:00 PM. Tickets are available now, with a special offer of two tickets for $35 using the code Love2025. This is your opportunity to witness Layla Carey-Johnson’s touching portrayal of Destiny and experience the magic of live theater at its finest. Join us for an evening of laughter, tears, and profound insights into the human heart.
Bolanle Media invites businesses and brands seeking to promote their brand and report news to reach out for innovative media solutions. We offer a range of services, including digital marketing, content creation, event coverage, and social media management, all designed to help brands connect with their target audience effectively. With a strong emphasis on storytelling and social impact, our expertise spans various fields, ensuring your brand’s message resonates. For partnership inquiries, contact us at Hello@bolanlemedia.com.
Entertainment
Layla Carey-Johnson: Returning to the Spotlight
Love Brought Me Back is a captivating stage play that weaves together the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth through an innovative narrative structure. The production features a unique setup with simultaneous bachelorette and bachelor parties, creating a dynamic interplay between scenes that keeps the audience engaged and entertained.
At the heart of this production is Layla Carey-Johnson, who brings depth and authenticity to her role as Destiny. In her own words, Layla shares her motivation for taking on this role:
“I chose to accept the role of Destiny in the stage play ‘Love Brought Me Back’ because I wanted to bring to life the character that I played as a 7-year-old in the movie ‘Beyond the Vows’ that the stage play is based on. I also love being on the stage, it challenges me because unlike movies we can’t stop and start over if we mess up. From my first movie with Wisdom Productions under the Direction of Joan Montreuil, I have always enjoyed working with her and her cast and crew, they are always so nice and talented. I look forward to any other products with them.”
Layla’s journey with this character, from childhood to the present, adds a unique layer of depth to the production. Her enthusiasm for live theater shines through as she embraces the challenges of stage acting, demonstrating her growth as an artist and her commitment to delivering authentic performances.
The play features a talented ensemble cast, each bringing their unique energy to the production. Deloris Hervey, who plays the First Lady, expresses excitement about the play’s structure, noting, “I like the back and forth. It’s like two scenes in one.” She adds, “The way it’s set up is pretty cool because it’s a bachelorette party and a bachelor party going on at the same time. And so I think that that’s, to me, I think that’s the most funnest scene.”
This innovative approach to storytelling creates a vibrant atmosphere that promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The interplay between the bachelor and bachelorette parties adds an element of excitement and unpredictability to the narrative. As Hervey mentions, “That sounds fun and crazy all at the same time.”
However, the production isn’t all about high energy and laughter. The cast and crew have worked hard to strike a balance between the lighthearted moments and the more profound themes of the play. As one cast member notes, “We do, we do, we tone it down a little bit,” indicating that there are moments of reflection and emotional depth amidst the celebrations.
The chemistry among the cast members is palpable, with each actor eagerly anticipating their scenes and supporting one another. This camaraderie translates into powerful on-stage performances, bringing the characters and their relationships to life in a way that resonates with audiences.
Layla’s return to the character of Destiny, now on stage, symbolizes the play’s themes of growth, reflection, and the cyclical nature of love and relationships. Her performance promises to be a highlight of the production, offering a unique perspective that bridges the gap between the original film and this new stage adaptation.
Love Brought Me Back is not just entertainment; it’s a heartfelt journey that invites the audience to reflect on their own experiences with love, friendship, and personal growth. Through the talented cast’s performances and the innovative storytelling approach, the play offers a unique and memorable theatrical experience that resonates long after the curtain falls.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary production. Love Brought Me Back will be performed on Saturday, January 11 at 5:00 PM. Tickets are available now, with a special offer of two tickets for $35 using the code Love2025. This is your opportunity to witness Layla Carey-Johnson’s touching portrayal of Destiny and experience the magic of live theater at its finest. Join us for an evening of laughter, tears, and profound insights into the human heart.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters, filmmakers and actors. Our services now include acting classes. Additionally, we are introducing film reviews by experienced critics and professional press article writing covering industry news and trends. Whether you’re looking to craft compelling stories, enhance your acting skills, or gain insights into the film industry, our resources will equip you to thrive in this competitive field. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and bring your artistic vision to life!
Entertainment
Deloris Hervey Shines in Love Brought Me Back
Love Brought Me Back is not just a play, it’s a vibrant exploration of love, friendship and the intricate dynamics that bind us together. With an innovative structure that features simultaneous bachelorette and bachelor parties the production captures the essence of celebration while delving into deeper themes of loyalty and personal growth. Deloris Hervey who plays the First Lady and serves as the assistant director shares her excitement about the unique setup. I like the back and forth. It’s like two scenes in one she explains. This clever arrangement allows for a lively mix of energy and humor creating an engaging experience for both the cast and the audience.
Hervey is particularly enthusiastic about the scenes featuring the bachelorette and bachelor parties. “To me, I think that’s the most fun scene,” she notes her eyes sparkling with anticipation. The combination of excitement and unpredictability promises to keep audiences on their toes fully immersed in the celebration. It sounds fun and crazy all at the same time she adds capturing the essence of the lively interactions that unfold during these pivotal moments.
Joining Hervey in this powerful ensemble are Whitney Jefferson as Dottie, an outspoken best friend who fiercely supports her friend Karen played by Ashley Hacker. Charley Viney portrays Don, a husband seeking redemption while other talented actors round out the cast each contributing to a rich narrative that explores love’s complexities. Together they create a dynamic atmosphere that reflects both the joyous and challenging aspects of relationships.
While these scenes are filled with fun and laughter Hervey emphasizes the importance of balancing energy with moments of reflection. We tone it down a little bit she mentions indicating that there are significant moments amidst the revelry that invite audiences to connect with deeper themes of love and understanding.
As families gather to enjoy this production by Wisdom Productions they are not just spectators but active participants in a dialogue about love forgiveness and growth. The themes explored in Love Brought Me Back provide an opportunity for families to bond over shared experiences and insights fostering deeper connections among loved ones.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this transformative play that highlights the importance of friendship and understanding within families. Join us on Saturday January 11 at 500 PM for an evening filled with powerful themes that will inspire and resonate with audiences. With a runtime of 2 hours including one intermission this play promises to be an unforgettable experience for families looking to celebrate love in all its forms. Get your tickets today two for 35 with code Love2025 and be part of this beautiful story that emphasizes the value of family connections. Your presence will contribute to an enriching experience that celebrates love in all its forms.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters, filmmakers and actors. Our services now include acting classes. Additionally, we are introducing film reviews by experienced critics and professional press article writing covering industry news and trends. Whether you’re looking to craft compelling stories, enhance your acting skills, or gain insights into the film industry, our resources will equip you to thrive in this competitive field. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and bring your artistic vision to life!
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