Who Is The Collective?

The Collective is more than just a production label; it is a movement and a global statement. We are a decentralized family of over 100 creators—filmmakers, actors, and professionals—who found each other during a period of unprecedented separation. Conceived in 2020 at the height of a global lockdown, we refused to let physical boundaries stop our drive to create, grow, and build community.

Our Culture: A Global Community

Comprised of individuals at every stage of their careers, The Collective was built as a “No-Ego Zone”. We believe that a creative democracy is the best foundation for innovation, where a production assistant’s insight is just as valuable as an executive’s decision. Our culture is intentionally anchored in:

• Authenticity: We prioritize lived experiences, ensuring every voice we represent is genuine and respected.
• Professionalism & Stability: We maintain high technical and creative standards, proving that remote collaboration can produce top-tier content.
• Experimentation: We treat limitations as stylistic choices, using cutting-edge virtual tools to turn home offices into global studios.

Our Vision: A Blueprint for the Future

While The Collective may not look like a traditional media company, our results speak for themselves. Our goal with YNTV Breaking News was not just to create a satirical series that encourages global communication, but to build a turnkey, replicable blueprint for the new evolution of entertainment. By bypassing industry gatekeepers, we have enabled more voices and provided a scalable model for borderless collaboration that can be successfully monetized and shared across the world.

A Sincere THANK YOU TO ALL!

YNTV Breaking News is a true labor of love from a global team that spanned from the UK to Australia, France to Kenya, Canada to Hungary, and the United States and more. We sincerely appreciate your interest in our journey. We hope our work inspires other creators to continue pushing forward, proving that even in chaos, the show must—and will—go on.

Cast

Main Cast

Rick McMann- Michael Richardson

J.C. Hoffman- Jennifer Cole

Ella Grace- Annie Thompson

Joel Kayima- Toben Sanders

Supporting Cast

Tom Helberg- John Hogman

Dawne Ellison- Dr. Portland

Yuki Nakazaki- Sakura Kawano

Gary Mortensen- Storm

Ebba Johansson- Kelly Williams

Bailey Chandra- DisGuy21

David D’Amico- Bill

Mary Koppel- The Mother

Richard Butch- Senator Buschwack

Zozo Chen-Wernik- Alina “Jackie” Kovacs

Chenoa Rae- Andrea Travers

Crew

Producers

Robert J. Brooks- Executive Producer

Neta Shlain- Producer

Aaron Majewski- Associate Producer
Viktor Balazs- Associate Producer

Suhaila Karim- Associate Producer

Len Charles- Tech Producer

Consultant

Samuel Crow

Writing Department

Neta Shlain- Lead Writer

Suhaila Karim- Lead Social Media Narrative Writer

Aaron Majewski- Writer

Robert J. Brooks- Writer

Viktor Balazs- Writer

Sunshine Vaught- Improv Transcriber

Directors

Viktor Balazs

Neta Shlain

Assistant Director

Eugenia Elhafi Garcia

Cinematographers

Samuel Crow- Director of Photography

Destiny Alexander- 1st Assistant Camera

Still Photography

Melissa Evans

Script Supervisor

Chris Toomath

Lighting

Samuel Crow

Editing Department

Owen D. Young- Lead Editor

Len Charles- 1st Draft Lead Editor

KJ Rogers- Assistant Editor; Lead Editor for Promos and Commercials; Team Lead for Social Media Video Editors

AJ Wilcox- Editor

Jennie Weiss- Assistant Editor; Editor for Promos and Commercials

Destiny Alexander- Assistant Editor

Job Kimani- Assistant Editor

Calvin C- Social Media Video Editor

Sr Pablington- Social Media Video Editor

Animation / Graphics

Rob Ross

Audio Department

Dominic Ross- Lead Audio / Sound Engineer

Pedro Ka’awaloa- Music/Audio Supervisor (Pre-Production)

Production Designer

Angela Chesser

Costume Designer

Angela Chesser

Hair Stylist / Makeup

Emma Smith

Production Coordinator

Demetri Landell

Hair Stylist / Makeup

Emma Smith

Production Assistants

Gwenllian Brown

Ziga Poromon

Ana Caroline Moreno

Casting

Robert J. Brooks

Neta Shlain

Aaron Majewski

Viktor Balazs

Samuel Crow

Katie Klein

Business

Graphics

Suhaila Karim- Team Lead

Jaz Wilson- Lead Graphic Designer

James Sullenberger- Lead Graphic Designer

Jane Liu

Amanda Siow

Dylan Ateba

Kayleigh Britton

Polina Pekurovsky

Samantha Stell

Troyonna Adams

Reagan G. Bagwell

Jordan Gan

Distribution

RJ Fiore

Alexa Marchione

J. Harrison Dubroff

Rick McMann

Marketing

Alexander Soule

RJ Fiore

Garrett Canipe

Hema Stewart

Nicola Burellini

Kumba Jallow

Public Relations

Tara Ruff- Lead

Karen Hasu- Assistant

Veronica Adams

Social Media

Bailey Seif

Soleil Roberts

Michael Andrews

Erica Sperber

Jasmine WIlks

Uchenna Egbuna

Jeleesa Bailey

IMDB Set Up

Aaron Majewski

Erica Sperber

Website Development

Patricio Pereria

Crew Correspondent

Rick McMann

Merchandising

Aaron Majewski

Bios- Casts

Links and Contact Information

Rick McMann (Michael Richardson)

Originally from Los Angeles CA, Rick has appeared in independent movies, television, commercials and stage plays.  While theatre provided an adrenaline rush stepping on stage in such plays as Robin Hood, Reservoir Dogs, There Goes the Bride and Dr. Doolittle, Rick most enjoys the creative work in film and television.  He loves the challenge of bringing different characters to life while watching how every element of a production works together for one successful, creative work of art.  Rick is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the talented cast and crew that has been assembled to bring to life the quirky and off the wall characters of the YNTV Breaking News Team!

J.C.  Hoffman (Jennifer Cole)

J.C. is ecstatic to be a part of the Breaking News team. During her life, pressure found her long before the camera did.

J.C. performed under pressure as a college athlete and learned empathy, precision, and human connection as a physical
therapist— skills that now anchor her work as an actor and model. She turns life’s challenges into grit-fueled, authentic performances—most recently starring in Riding on Faith (The CW, Roku, Tubi). But her work isn’t defined by a single role. It’s shaped by a life spent embracing what makes everyone different.

J.C. grew up in a military family, moving seven times in eighteen years, and living in Europe during the Cold War taught her resilience, adaptability, and a global perspective. J.C.’s performances are shaped by movement, diversity, and a relentless drive to turn life’s challenges into art. J.C. doesn’t just play roles—she lives them.

Link info: J.C. HOFFMAN

Ella Grace (Annie Thompson)

Ella has been working on her career as an actor since the age of 13. Her training includes East 15 and The University for the Creative Arts. This is one of her first roles and she has loved the experience of playing Annie and working with such a talented and dedicated cast and crew.

Joel Kayima (Toben Sanders)

My name is Joel Kayima, native to Uganda, son of Rose and Jack Kamara. I emigrated to England from the tender age of 3 to 16. During those times of exploration I practiced piano, football, and painting. Then in 2004 I emigrated to Boston Massachusetts where I grew up in small town outside Boston.  Shortly after my 29th birthday I decided for a career change and flew to San Luis Obispo where I started my theatre carrier. I performed in over 350 shows that toured around California. During 2020 I switched to film acting. I’ve been blessed to be  starred as the lead in a sci-fi thriller called Glasses, directed and written by Ian Wittenber and  supporting actor for YNTV Breaking News. Excited for what is coming up next.

Yuki Nakazaki (Sakura Kawano)

Yuki Nakazaki is an actor based in San Francisco. She has been acting professionally for several years both on stage and in front of the camera. While she works on projects, she continues to learn about her craft through the Howard Fine Acting Studio. Her passion for acting continues to grow as she seeks out roles that span from drama to comedy and everything in between. 

Richard Butch (Senator Buschwack)

I have always been a performer from a very early age – weather it be performing for my family as a child on the holidays, High School Drama Club, University Summer Stock or as a professional model and commercial actor. Originally, from the east coast but I have found a new home here among my west coast brothers and sisters. I am looking forward to bringing my unique energy and skills to your very important endeavor.

More Info Link: RICHARD SCOTT BUTCH – Resume | Actors Access

Mary Koppel (The Mother)

Mary E. Koppel is thrilled to be The Mother on Breaking News! Mary has performed in plays, worked as an extra in commercials and movies, takes classes online with The Groundlings and makes silly YouTube videos. She is also a mother, a cozy mystery writer and she has a day job!

Tom R. Helberg (John Hogmann)

Tom originally hails from Ohio, but now makes his home in Scottsdale, Arizona. He has been active in commercials, print, voiceover, UGC, live performance, web and film. He has had training in voicework, acting, improvisation, miming and as a clown. He is represented by Dani’s Agency in Phoenix, Az. In addition, he has had a long career as an attorney, commercial real estate developer and a licensed real estate agent. He enjoys outdoor activities like pickleball, hiking, mountain biking and fishing. He is a big sports fan, especially following his alma mater the USC Trojans. He would like to thank the cast and crew of Breaking News and appreciates being part of this truly global

Zozo Chen-Wernik (Alina)

Zozo Chen-Wernik, of Taiwanese and Polish descent, holds a Musical Theatre BFA from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in LA. Originating from Taipei, she engaged in modeling and TV hosting before moving to the US. Since being in LA, she’s starred in both theatrical and on -camera roles, and worked as a script supervisor on 25+ films, series, and commercials. Apart from her entertainment career, Zozo managed her ski school in Japan, Noyuki Academy, and also enjoys figure skating, skateboarding, cross-stitching, and keychain collecting.

Bailey A Chandra (DisGuy21)

Bios- Crew

Links and contact information

Robert J. Brooks

Robert J. Brooks is a media executive, producer, and growth strategist with over 15 years of experience across video, digital media, and platform-driven content. As the creator and executive producer of YNTV: Breaking News, he combines storytelling with strategic execution to develop IP designed for scale, audience growth, and cross-platform distribution.

His work reflects a broader focus on the intersection of content, technology, and commercialization—positioning media properties for long-term value in today’s evolving entertainment landscape.

Link – https://linkedin.com/in/robertjbrooks

Neta Shlain

Neta Shlain is from West Midlands, UK. She is a writer-director with a background in medicine,

dance, and art. Besides creating films, Neta writes poetry and prose, having recently completed her

YA novel. She holds an MA in feature film development. Amongst Neta’s many hobbies are skydiving, motorbikes, carpentry, and horse-riding.

Link – https://www.netashlainwritefilm.co.uk/

Aaron Majewski

A Canadian based author/screenwriter and all around awesome guy who is probably best known for his young adult fiction and the collaborative series A Billion To One. And for being awesome, did I say that yet?

Link: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7057202/

Viktor Balázs

Viktor is an active part in the video industry since 2016 where he had the chance the climb the ’’filmmaking ladder’’. He started with university student films, after graduation he had the chance to direct festival videos, music videos, charity-commercials, short-films, documentaries and he finally he became the director and co-writer of an international web series which has been always his childhood dream. His workflow includes out-of-the-box mindset, having meaningful relationship with the crew members, and using his creativity to solve problems. Even if he’s Hungary-based he is open to work all around the world.

Suhaila Karim

Suhaila Karim is a short story and script Writer, having been published in multiple mediums, both fiction and non-fiction – such as, ‘Man of the House and Other Short Stories from Kenya’ and Lost in Cult’s: ‘The Console Chronicles’. Honing her craft through various genres and short story competitions, to find unique and dynamic ways to explore the human experience, while also adapting her stories into scripts.

Owen Young

Owen has a passion for art and technology, and loves sharing his knowledge and abilities to create engaging television and film productions. He enjoys the collaborative process of video production as well as leading creative teams through the technical processes involved in creating video content.

His past collaborations include scripted and unscripted television, feature films, lifelong learning content and media displayed in museums and presidential libraries. He received his bachelor’s degree in film and television production from University of North Carolina, a graduate degree in instructional design from George Mason University and Business of Entertainment certificate from NYU|Tisch School of the Arts.

With a foundation in broadcasting and film production coupled with advanced degrees in educational technology and business of entertainment, Owen brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to every project.

Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/showcase/5070503

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/owendyoungjr

IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3140493/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk

Dominic Ross

Dom is a London based Theatre and Film university graduate dedicated to the world of sound – a professional Sound Recordist, Sound Mixer and Designer, Foley Artist, and Composer working across the arts for over 10 years.

With an unwavering belief that quality sound is vital to bring the moving image to life, Dom has worked on several award nominated projects across the world, utilising industry standard equipment and techniques to deliver a professional final production. Dom also writes and records music under the moniker “Beep Beep, Richie!”

Useful links:

IMDB – https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14674078/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr

Mandy – https://www.mandy.com/uk/c/dominicross4

Broken Pieces (Smiley Charity Film Awards Finalist 2024) – https://smileycharityfilmawards.com/films/broken-pieces

“Beep Beep, Richie!” – https://beepbeeprichie.bandcamp.com/album/farewell-my-balloon

Contact: domross50@gmail.com

KJ Rogers

KJ Rogers (Assistant Video Editor/Social Media Specialist) is a graduate of the Ravensbourne University London Master in Craft Editing and holds degrees in Journalism and Communication and Media.

Previous projects she has worked on include short documentaries as part of her studies, informational videos for the Port of Antwerp, and KJ was also a part of the editing of project pitches for the EU Development Education Awareness Raising (DEAR) Programme.

Work sample link: https://www.youtube.com/@KJRogers

Contact info link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kj-rogers/

Jennie Weiss

Jennie hails from Philadelphia and works as an assistant editor for multiple projects. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcasting and Mass Media from Temple University and is interested in scripted content. She can be reached at Jennierachelw@gmail.com.

Link: Vimeo.com/jenrweiss.

Destiny Alexander

My name is Destiny Alexander. I am an artist, wardrobe designer, and photographer based in Dallas, Texas. I believe I’m here to be a storyteller and I use fashion and photography/cinematography as mediums to do so. In my spare time, I like to garden, hike, and generally just enjoy nature. My work can be found at www.pearlmoonstudio.co (not “.com”) and attached is a sample of my photography.

Calvin C

With a background in video editing and post-production, Calvin brings over five years of experience crafting engaging visual stories across commercials, documentaries, music videos, and social platforms. As the Social Media Editor for Breaking News, when the cast is busy causing chaos, he is behind the scenes making sure the internet sees every hilarious second of it.

Chris Toomath

Australian graduate with an eye for art, excels in writing but passionate about every part of film production. Worked tirelessly long into the morning to bring my A game to this production.

Contact: christoomathfilm@gmail.com

RJ Fiore (They/Them)

I am a filmmaker and storyteller with a passion for sci-fi, comedy, and camp cinema. I particularly work as a Director and Producer on bombastic comedy adventures, while helping market and distribute other peoples projects to audiences who will benefit from them the most.

Link: rj-fiore.com

Contact: robert.j.fiore2001@gmail.com

Jaz Wilson
Jaz Wilson is a New York based graphic artist and designer in film and television. After receiving her BFA from the University of Michigan in 2023, she ventured into film and tv production to pursue a career in the art department. As of currently, she has worked on various projects with credited roles such as prop master, set dresser, and art director. Jaz also works as a freelance designer in which she hopes to bridge with her work in film and tv.

Dylan Ateba

My name is Dylan Ateba! I’m a 24 year old Editor, Graphic Designer and Illustrator. I received my BA in Film with Honours in 2022 and currently reside in Toronto, ON. Visit my website at v1deopuns.carrd.co for more and please send all business and personal inquiries to dylan.ateba908@gmail.com.

Reagan G. Bagwell

I’m Reagan G. Bagwell, film studies major at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. I have participated in film production ever since summer 2023 as a boom operator for multiple senior thesis films. I have experience in graphic design, having taken multiple graphic design classes in high school and university, with Breaking News being my first official project as a graphic designer. With a projected graduation date in May 2026, I am just beginning my career and can’t wait to see how it evolves!

Ziga Poromon

Ziga is an Irish-Nigerian-Canadian actor, poet, and writer. She has written for musical artists, blogs, digital platforms, and short films, and worked as an Assistant Producer. She has more than 5 years of experience performing in theatre, piano, film, TV, and commercials.Ziga has received a certificate in Performing Arts from NYU Tisch School of Arts. She is passionate about telling diverse stories and entertaining audiences. 

Contact information: ziga.business@gmail.com

Katie Klein

Meet Katie! Seven years old and she was running off the stage during her first-grade talent show gymnastics routine. Flash forward: Katie has been involved in countless theatre productions and has been pursuing her passion for performing arts since the age of 10. It’s safe to say the stage fright dissipated. A lover of literature and music, Katie often finds herself songwriting, crafting poems, or arranging melodies to her favorite songs. Katie is currently studying creative production and enjoys being around driven and artistic souls like herself.