Rocky Aoki: Last News

Joe Otterson TV ReporterFX is developing a series based on the life of Hiroaki “Rocky” Aoki, best known as the founder of the Benihana restaurant chain, Variety has learned exclusively from sources.The series is currently titled “American Hiro” and is based in part on the book “Making It in America: The Life and Times of Rocky Aoki” by Jack McCallum.Representatives for FX and 20th Television declined to comment.The series will delve into Aoki’s colorful life as a mogul and businessman, from founding Benihana to being an Olympic wrestler, professional speed boat racer, hot air balloonist, and nightclub impresario. It will also examine his complicated relationship with his family and his attempts to reconcile his Japanese heritage with his American dreams. Jonathan Abrams created the series and will serve as an executive producer.

Yumi Nu didn’t know what to do with herself after she learned that she made the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. The model and recording artist made a splash this year alongside Kim Kardashian, Maye Musk and Ciara as the latest cover girls. "I could not speak," the 25-year-old told the New York Post on Monday following the announcement.

Sports Illustrated Swimsuit honcho MJ Day and other staffers from the bikini bible popped out with a camera crew as the cover of this year’s magazine, featuring Nu, filled a nearby monitor.“I was processing the surprise of it not being a real interview and that this was actually the SI cover reveal. I could not speak. I had full body chills.