Aspire To Debut ‘Changemakers’ Reality Series

Celebrities doing positive things within communities around the country will be the focus of a new Aspire reality series, Changemakers, the network announced Wednesday.

The series debus Sept. 24 and will spotlight African-American celebrities – such as Keshia Knight Pulliam and Chris “Ludacris” Bridges (pictured) – who are making a difference and reveal how and why they use their success to help others.  The six-episode series is executive produced by Swirl Films, according to network officials.

“Changemakers is a groundbreaking reality series that focuses on celebrities who are changing the game in their communities by doing extraordinary things,” said Aspire general manager Paul Butler in a statement. “We are committed to telling stories that otherwise go untold, and Changemakers features the exceptional work of many celebrities who are giving back to the community.  We are pleased to shine a spotlight on some of these generous acts."

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.