Posted by chicagomedia.org on July 22, 2008 at 14:47:37:
In Reply to: Ebert & Roeper close the balcony posted by chicagomedia.org on July 21, 2008 at 18:35:11:
Disney names 'At the Movies' hosts
One day after Roger Ebert and Richard Roeper signed off as hosts of "At the Movies," Disney ABC Domestic Television announced their replacements along with a new format for the Chicago-based syndicated movie-review show.
Ben Lyons and Ben Mankiewicz were named Tuesday as co-hosts of show when its new season begins Sept. 6.
Lyons, the son of film critic Jeffrey Lyons and grandson of columnist Leonard Lyons, reported on movies for E! Entertainment.
Mankiewicz, the grandson of screenwriter Herman Mankiewicz and great-nephew of director Joseph L. Mankiewicz, was a host for Turner Classic Movies and Sirius Satellite Radio.
"I am incredibly excited to be involved with such a prestigious show," Ben Lyons said. "Reviewing films for a living is a thrill, and now that I will be a critic for 'At the Movies,' it is an honor and huge responsibility that I look forward to."
"I am thrilled and honored beyond words to be joining the series," Ben Mankiewicz said. "As a movie fanatic, this is my dream job.
Without question, I certainly have very big shoes to fill."
In addition to a new set, new music and new graphics, the show will add a "Critics Round-Up," featuring the co-hosts in discussions with other critics via satellite from across the country.
Brian Frons, president of daytime for Disney-ABC Television Group, said: "Over the years, 'At the Movies' has become synonymous with fun, compelling movie reviews. With the addition of Ben Lyons and Ben Mankiewicz as our talented, charismatic new co-hosts, and exciting new segments planned, we're confident that audiences will be enjoying 'At the Movies' for many years to come."
The show will continue to be produced at the 190 N. State Street studios of ABC-owned WLS-Channel 7.
(Feder)