Wanda Sykes Spearheads Logo Election Specials

Comedian/actress Wanda Sykes will host two election-themed specials for Logo beginning in September, the network announced Thursday.

The NewNowNext Vote with Wanda Sykes specials will focus on issues and topics relevant to the LGBT community, said network officials.

The two one-hour specials -- which will feature a rapid-fire, roundtable format with notable panelists from both sides of the political aisle -- will air on Logo four days after the Democratic National Convention on Sept. 10 and on election-eve, Nov. 5. Topics discussed during the specials will include gay marriage, Supreme Court appointments, the economy and healthcare, said the network.

"While there has been much progress in civil rights for LGBT Americans over the course of the past few years, this is a crucial time for our community and our quest for equality on all fronts," said Lisa Sherman,executive vice president and general manager for Logo in a statement. "Wanda will be the perfect host for the specials, providing her one-of-a-kind take on LGBT concerns and challenges. She's sure to entertain -- and generate some discussion along the way."

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.