Written by | Ray Cornelius
I had the pleasure of attending a private media dinner Thursday night at STK Atlanta for NBC’s new comedy, Truth Be Told. The event was hosted by the star of the show comedian Tone Bell as well as the show’s executive producer Will Packer.
We had an opportunity to chat one-on-one with both Bell and Packer, who appeared to be super excited about the new series. We also got a chance to see the first episode prior to the event and I must admit it’s pretty funny.
Will Packer being interviewed by Ronda Racha Penrice
Truth Be Told centers around two diverse couples where no topic of discussion is off limits. From sex to race to politics and porn, this foursome has no problem being open and honest with each other and having those candid conversations that you only have with your real friends.
The show features Bell as the hilarious, wise-cracking Russell who is newly married to Angie, played by Bresha Webb. Their best friends and neighbors are ethics professor, Mitch and his attorney wife Tracy played by Mark-Paul Gosselaar and Vanessa Lachey.
Tone Bell chatting with press about his character ‘Russell’
For Bell, playing a comedian on the show is a lot like playing himself considering he began his career doing stand-up.
“My character Russell actually sounds a lot like me. I mean, other than the fact that I play married and own a house, I pretty much get to be myself,” said Bell. ” I was also very adamant to the producers that I didn’t want to change my own comedic sensibility to become someone else’s ‘voice’ and they agreed with me 100%.”
Truth Be Told premieres tonight beginning at 8:30 p.m. on NBC.
Check out the trailer below and as well as more photos from the dinner:
Sheri Riley and guest with Dianne Ashford
Will “Power” Packer
Will Packer taking a picture with blogger Courtney Luv
RC, Courtney Luv and noted photographer James Anthony
Tone Bell acting silly with Will Packer
Atlanta Exes star Monyetta Shaw was also in attendance
The Packers
Will Packer and Tone Bell with family and friends including Frank Ski
Photo Credits: RayCornelius.com