News
Deborah Joy Winans’ Key Role on Greenleaf Is Starting Needed Conversations
If you’re new to Greenleaf, it is a new TV series on Oprah’s OWN Network. The series comes from writer-producer Craig Wright, and is produced by by Lionsgate in association with Harpo Films and Pine City. The series stars Merle Dandridge, Lynn Whitfield and Keith David and revolves around the twists and turns of the Greenleaf family and their sprawling Memphis megachurch. It has become a fan favorite for it’s relatability, transparency, and boldness to touch on real topics that effect everyday people both in and outside of the church.
This new TV series is real and relevant. The writers are never afraid to take the story down a path that brings hard truths to light. This is seen through the story lines of each character featured on the show, including Deborah Joy Winans’ role as Charity who is the Pastor’s daughter and a worship leader in the church. Her character’s story line has made waves touching on necessary topics such as mental health, addiction, divorce and more. Her role shows the complex nature that would be seen in any person when given a lens that shows a close up view of their life on and off of the stage. These are the type of stories that draw fans back in to watching week to week.
Deborah is a singer/songwriter first. So, acting wasn’t exactly on her agenda. She is apart of the iconic Winans family where just about every family member is musically inclined in some way. But, Debrah has been winning with her choice to go a new route through acting. She had her doubts; as prior to Greenleaf, she had only held one role as “Aunt CeCe” in a Lifetime Whitney Houston biopic. But, Oprah Winfrey saw her potential after seeing her in a stage musical. Oprah submitted her for the Greenleaf series shortly after.
“… everyone else was saying, “She doesn’t have a name! We need somebody else!” But Ms. Winfrey stuck with me. When I went to my audition she said, “I believe they will see what I see.” [Laughs] And they did! Still, the experience was totally surreal. I was like, “Really, God, is this some kind of joke?” – Debrah Joy Winans
Deborah Speaks On Choosing Acting Over Singing:
Despite Deborah’s initial doubts, choosing to act in this season of her life has been game changer as the series has gone on to bring in millions of viewers and was recently renewed for a fourth season! The relatability of her character “Charity” along with the others on this show are keeping fans hooked and coming back week by week just to see where the story line goes. Tune in every Wednesday at 10pm ET/PT on the OWN Network or catch up on previous seasons on Netflix.
Follow Deborah Winans and the Greenleaf series on Twitter. Don’t forget to join the Greenleaf twitter chats every Wednesday by following #GreenleafOWN on twitter.
@GreenleafOwn
@DeborahJWinans
Hashtag #GreenleafOwn
Chicago was the backdrop for a moment you couldn’t script any better: GRAMMY®, Dove, and Stellar Award-winning powerhouse Jonathan McReynolds linking arms with American Idol Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts to deliver a live ballad that hits straight to the soul. Their new single, “Still,” isn’t just another worship record—it’s a reminder that God’s love is the one thing that doesn’t shift when life does.
Recorded live in McReynolds’ hometown, the song is lifted from his forthcoming project Closer—an album already carrying heavy anticipation. What unfolds in “Still” is classic Jonathan: heartfelt storytelling, layered with rich theology, now elevated by Roberts’ fresh, unshaken voice.
👉 Watch the live performance here.
Legacy Meets New Fire 🔥
Jonathan McReynolds has carved out a lane few can touch—an artist who makes Gospel feel as real as your group chat confessions. His catalog has always balanced honesty and worship, bringing Sunday morning depth into everyday playlists.
Enter Jamal Roberts: the new voice America fell in love with on American Idol. His win wasn’t just about vocal ability—it was about heart, authenticity, and the kind of presence that feels rare. Pairing him with McReynolds doesn’t just make sense; it feels prophetic. It’s the kind of intergenerational link-up that keeps Gospel fresh while honoring its roots.
The Vibe
With “Still,” Jonathan McReynolds and Jamal Roberts don’t just give us another Gospel single—they give us a soundtrack for resilience. It’s raw, it’s soulful, and it’s proof that the future of faith-based music is in good hands. Expect this one to be on repeat long after the Stellars.
Culture
ArtSoul Radio & Actor Empowerment Summit Host Sneak Peek of BET+ Series Churchy with KevOnStage at XL Film Fest
Chicago, IL — August 17, 2025 – ArtSoul Radio is teaming up with the XL Film Festival, The Actor Empowerment Summit, and BET+ to bring fans an exclusive sneak peek of KevOnStage’s hit comedy series Churchy. This one-night event will feature a special panel conversation with KevOnStage and the full cast, moderated by Chicago’s own Christal Luster, along with an advance screening of highlights from Season 2.
A First Look at Churchy Season 2
Fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of Churchy ahead of its official August 21 premiere on BET+. Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks returns as Pastor Corey Carr Jr., navigating church leadership, unexpected debts, and laugh-out-loud moments with his eccentric team. The new season promises fresh surprises with appearances by Tabitha Brown, Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Keith Lee, Tony Baker, and many more.
Chicago Exclusive – Then Available for ArtSoul Radio Community Members
Chicago, IL — August 17, 2025 – ArtSoul Radio is teaming up with the XL Film Festival, The Actor Empowerment Summit, and BET+ to bring fans an exclusive sneak peek of KevOnStage’s hit comedy series Churchy. This one-night event will feature a special panel conversation with KevOnStage and the full cast, moderated by Chicago’s own Christal Luster, along with an advance screening of highlights from Season 2.
A First Look at Churchy Season 2
Fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of Churchy ahead of its official August 21 premiere on BET+. Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks returns as Pastor Corey Carr Jr., navigating church leadership, unexpected debts, and laugh-out-loud moments with his eccentric team. The new season promises fresh surprises with appearances by Tabitha Brown, Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Keith Lee, Tony Baker, and many more.
Chicago Exclusive – Then Available for ArtSoul Radio Community Members
For those in Chicago, the August 17th event offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to engage live with KevOnStage and his cast. Can’t make it in person? Join the ArtSoul Radio community to gain exclusive access to the full panel replay after the event.
Click here to sign up and stay connected. Community members will be the first to receive:
- A private link to the full panel replay
- Behind-the-scenes clips and highlights
- Special giveaways tied to Churchy Season 2
Why This Event Matters
Partnering with XL Film Fest and The Actor Empowerment Summit to bring this BET+ collaboration to Chicago is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural moment for faith-based media. It reflects the growth of Christian creatives in film, comedy, and storytelling while highlighting Chicago as a hub for innovative cultural conversations.
About Churchy
After debuting as one of the most-watched scripted comedies on BET+, Churchy quickly built a loyal fan base. Season 2 expands the storylines, bringing new characters, guest stars, and bigger laughs—all while spotlighting themes of faith, community, and resilience. Produced by KevOnStage Studios alongside industry leaders and executive producers like LeBron James and Maverick Carter (SpringHill), the show continues to elevate digital-first creators onto global platforms.
Culture
Holy Smoke! Festival 2025 Kicks Off This Week in Nashville — Full Guide, Lineup, Schedule, & How to Tap In
NEW MUSIC: Jonathan McReynolds & Jamal Roberts Deliver a Soulful Moment with “Still”
ArtSoul Radio & Actor Empowerment Summit Host Sneak Peek of BET+ Series Churchy with KevOnStage at XL Film Fest
Holy Smoke! Festival 2025 Kicks Off This Week in Nashville — Full Guide, Lineup, Schedule, & How to Tap In
Author Kenyatta Scott Is Doing More Than Selling Books. She’s Making A Difference!
K-Ci of R&B Group Jodeci Shares Near Death Experience & How His Faith Helped Him Recover
NEW MUSIC: Stream Derek Minor’s New Single, “Take Off” (Ft. KB, Canon & Ty Brasel)
Watch Jonathan McReynolds Perform “God Is Good” and Discuss His New Book “Before You Climb Any Higher” on Tamron Hall
Watch Pastor Mike Jr. Perform “Amen” & Discuss How to Thrive in 2025 on The Tamron Hall Show
One year later, Lee Vasi’s Single “Teach Me” is still making an impact!
-
ArtSoul Spotlight5 years agoAuthor Kenyatta Scott Is Doing More Than Selling Books. She’s Making A Difference!
-
New Music5 years agoK-Ci of R&B Group Jodeci Shares Near Death Experience & How His Faith Helped Him Recover
-
New Music8 years agoNEW MUSIC: Stream Derek Minor’s New Single, “Take Off” (Ft. KB, Canon & Ty Brasel)
-
Events7 years agoFormer “Forever Jones” Artist “DOE” Releases New Music
-
Events7 years ago
Joyful Noise: New Christmas music from your favorite artists
-
Entertainment4 years agoJonathan McReynolds Lands Lead Role in New BET+ Original Movie
-
Entertainment5 years agoChina McClain Quits the Black Lightning TV Series & Dedicates Her Career to God
-
Chicago Events9 years agoPropaganda & Murs Kick Off The Unlimited Up Tour in Chicago-July 15th!