SNL Premiere: Tina Fey Scores as Sarah Palin!

Here is a clip of last night's SNL opening skit featuring Tina Fey as Sarah Palin and Amy Poehler as Hilary Clinton on NBC:



This was a smart, funny piece - really timely and VERY on point with capturing perceptions of both women. Clearly EMMY-worthy work.

MORE ladies (though from the look of things, Amy's about to drop her baby any day now!).

Had to Kick Up My Cha Cha Heels!

I had to kick my feet up and take a bit of a mini-vacation around the middle of August.


So so sorry for the lack of new blogs posts but I'm sure you understand. I figured the timing was just right with the Olympics and the Conventions for me to go chill out.


Now I'm back and there is SO much going on. I'm going to try and do a few posts a day this week in order to catch up.


Wish me luck!

Laurence Fishburne Locked and Loaded for CSI

CBS has confirmed that Laurence Fishburne will join the cast of "CSI" according to the Hollywood Reporter.com.

Fishburne will join the cast in the 9th episode and will interact with William Peterson's character until Peterson is written out of the show. Producers are mum on how Peterson will sign off but I'm sure it will not be an easy exit.

Congrats to Larry for the the new gig - CSI is going into its ninth season this year so the addition might bring new life to the series.

I'll certainly check it out now!

Christina Takes Radical Step to Beat Cancer

On "Good Morning America" this morning Christina Applegate announced that she had double mastectomy as part of her treatment for breast cancer.

Applegate, star of ABC's "Samantha Who?," was interviewed by "Good Morning America" co-host Robin Roberts, herself a recent survivor of breast cancer. In the interview, Applegate confirmed that the procedure was performed three weeks ago shortly after her breast cancer diagnosis was confirmed.

Calling the decision "tough," Applegate said she wanted to live life without going through the grueling treatment processes her mother endured for over 2 years. Applegate plans on going through reconstructive breast surgery over the coming months - she went so far to say that she'd have the "perkiest" breasts at 90.

It was an INCREDIBLY moving piece to watch - I was at home and I could not do anything but watch in stunned silence.

I am awed by her courage and candor. It is unthinkable that an actress who is so well known for being a sex symbol would choose life over vanity and have her breasts removed.

Most actresses would have just gotten the C cups AND THEN told the world while they were hawking a book about their expediences (not that there is anything wrong with that). I can only applaud Ms. Applegate's brave decision and hope it provides help and support for all the women living with breast cancer.

Who knew the actress who played dumb Kelly Bundy on "Married with Children" would grow up to be so kick ass?

SIMPLY AMAZING!!

You Didn't Hear It From Me: Follow Up To Page Six Item

It appears that Kenneth in the 212 received word from one of his readers regarding the identity of the closeted male star who allegedly raped his boyfriend and then paid him off to keep quiet.

I won't reveal the name of the star allegedly named by this anonymous reader - you can read that for yourself and thus save me the potential lawsuit. Kenneth names names so you can find out for yourself there.

I WILL say the alleged star was one of two super heroes this summer and he didn't wear a suit of armor (hint hint).

Also, I WILL say that the reader clarified a few things: it wasn't rape just rough sex gone too far resulting in some minor tearing (hey fellas get the safe word right before you start knocking boots).

There was a police report but the half a million dollar payoff was to ensure that the injured guy would not press charges (which he did not).

Rumors of the nature, especially rumors about this actor and his wife, have been floating around for years. I've heard they have a clear understanding and they handle their private business accordingly.

Could this story be true? Maybe.

Is it sad that someone might have to lead a potentially closeted life like this? Definitely

Does it matter in the grand scheme of things? Not really.

It is just another interesting tale from Hollywood. Let me know what you think!

Interesting Daily Post Blind Item - Do Ask but Don't Tell

The "Daily News" printed a Page Six Blind Item this morning that is both titilating and shocking at the same time. In case you can't read the image, here is the blind item about closeted homosexual star:

"WHICH hunk in a summer movie is a violent, closeted homosexual? The heartthrob snuck into his ex's apartment a few months ago and raped him so violently, the ex ended up in the hospital - and the actor paid him $500,000 to keep his mouth shut . . . "

One blogger swears he's heard "Dominic Cooper, Vin Diesel, Christian Bale and Brendan Fraser's names bandied about ..."

I don't know about this one - Page Six can sometimes be on the money and sometimes they can be very off.

I HOPE this is a big fat lie - who needs to hear that a big time start would rape his man and then pay him off? No one.

Worse, WHY would his man accept the payoff? Half a million or not, the injuried party should cut first and cash that check later.

I'm just saying!

Ellen and Portia Get Hitched!

Ellen DeGeneres has made Portia de Rossi an honest woman and married her!

According to People.com, Ellen and Portia did the do at their home in Beverly Hills surrounded by a small group of folks including moms.

The following link will take you to the Daily Mail which got their hands on real pics from the wedding and I've included a pic below.

Both women wore Zac Posen - smart viewers will note Posen provided the different hued dresses Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda wore in the "Sex and the City" movie.

Congrats to the gals - it is a beautiful thing that their union can be marked officially!

Newsflash: Potter Movie Release Change - Vampires Kick Wizard Ass!

According to Variety.com, the vampire love story "Twilight" is taking over the November 21 release date original held by "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince." Apparently the new "Harry Potter" flick will makes its debut next summer in July 2009.

"Twilight," based on the saga of love at first near bite written by Stephanie Meyer, was a hot property at this year's Comic-Con and the buzz has been high for the film starring Kristen Stewart as heroine Bella and Robert Pattinson as her immortal love Edward. Many will remember that Pattinson also played Cedric Diggory from the "Harry Potter" films.

No word yet on why the "Potter" push - Meyer's even goes so far to say on her blog that she had nothing to do with the schedule change. As if! (Note to Stephanie - I hate to be the one to tell you but you AIN'T J. K. Rowling baby doll - you ain't got that much juice!)

I just started reading the "Twilight" series so I was looking forward to the movie but I have to say I'm a bit bummed that "Harry P" has been delayed. I loved the books and all of the movies so I was really looking forward to the new film this year.

I hope this doesn't mean that the final two films based on "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows", the final book of the series, originally slated for 2010 and 2011 releases dates, won't be delayed.

I need my magic fix! I suppose in the mean time I'll have to settle for the Vamps.

Here is a clip of the "Twilight" trailer just in case you missed it:

Happy B-Day Material Matron!

OK kids - another sign we are all getting older. Madonna made 50 today kids.

I know - scary stuff. When the Material Girl is now officially a Material Matron, it is time to grab the Geritol and pray. I hope she keeps her clothes on from now on - I don't think she'll look that cure running around naked.

Do you?

I am going to start working out and lying about my age starting tomorrow. Well maybe I'll just do lying about my age thing AND then consider the working out thing.

I would make a crack about going to China for a fake passport ala the Chinese gymnastics team BUT I'm not that crass.

Right Now.

Botox for everyone and happy birthday to Madonna!

Hook Up at Dr. Phil's!

According to TMZ, some guy has put the call out on Craigslist that choice lady love can be found in the Dr Phil audience.

No joke - apparently it is "BABEcentral at that show" according to the guy's Craigslist post.

Here is a link to the post.

Now ain't that just wrong - how would you like some guy hitting on your momma after she just saw Phil talking about some drug addicted housewife.

So not cool.

Hollywood Vet's Secret to Long Life: Master Your Domain - A LOT

OK - lord knows we should really listen to our elders but SOMETIMES our elders need to keep their anti-aging secrets a SECRET!

Oscar winner (1956 - Best Actor for "Marty") Ernest Borgnine told the shocked host of "Fox & Friends" that his secret to staying young is that he "masturbates a lot".

Take a look and a listen:


My reply to Ernest: We love ya but we don't nobody need all that info Ernest! The visual picture just ain't pretty.

Oh my god, my eyes! They are burning!

R.I.P. Isaac Hayes

Sad news - Oscar and Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Isaac Hayes died today. He was 65.

According to People.com, Hayes was found unconscious in his Memphis home and pronounced dead shortly thereafter in a local hospital.

Hayes was well known for his outstanding funk-fueled music of the 70s especially his Oscar-winning "Theme from Shaft." In recent years, he has found a new audience based on his work as the bawdy Chef on Comedy Central's "South Park" and his affiliation with the Scientology cult/religion.

I can't even say how freakin bummed out I am right now - first Bernie Mac and now Isaac Hayes. What is going on Black Hollywood - ya'll need to get it together!?!

They say these things come in threes - somebody had better check on Sidney Poitier and James Earl Jones. I can't take another passing of a giant.

Here is a video of Hayes performing his signature hit "Theme from Shaft" - check out how cool he was:

Bernie Mac Has Passed On

Sad news - actor Bernie Mac, 50, has passed away according to E! Online. Mac died on Friday in a Chicago hospital from complications due to pneumonia .

Mac, star of his own Fox TV show "the Bernie Mac Show," has been seeking treatment for his illness since August and as of early this week, had been on the mend.

Mac will as lo be remembered for his role in the "Ocean" films co-staring George Clooney and Brad Pitt.

I was a major fan of Bernie - he was smart, funny with an impeccable sense of style.

We've really lost a great talent much too soon.

Prayers and love to his family

Morpheus Might Do CSI

According to the Hollywood Reporter, actor Laurence Fishburne is in talks to star in CBS's "CSI" when William Peterson decides to hang up his black light and rubber gloves.

Talks aren't final so who knows if he will sign up but can you imagine Larry F. working CSI cases each week!?! He would be so INTENSE - I would actually DVR "CSI" (I would never watch it outright because I could never give up on "Grey's Anatomy." They gave the world 'vajayjay for Heaven's sake."

I think CBS should pay Larry whatever he wants so we can see him chew up the TV screen week after week.

Who's with me?

Paris Does Politics

If you haven't seen it, Paris Hilton has released a rebuttal to the McCain camp's TV spot comparing Obama to Hilton and Britney.

Check out Hilton's kind of funny spot from funnyordie.com.

While not a gut buster, it is amusing:

See more Paris Hilton videos at Funny or Die

Morgan Freeman in Serious Condition

Lord – Morgan Freeman is in the hospital ya’ll.

According to People.com, he was driving along a Mississippi highway when his car veered off the road and flipped over serveral times. Rescue crews had to use the jaws of life to free the Oscar winner who is serious condition.

Ok – now most folks know that I love and admire Morgan Freeman TREMENDOUSLY. If he does not recover, I will have a Florida Evans moment from “Good Times” when she accepted that her husband James was dead.

Here’s a clip:



Imagine me running through Crate and Barrel breaking glass screaming “Dammn DAAMN, DAAAAMN”! So not cute.

Godspeed to Mr. Freeman and his family. I will be on Freeman alert until we know he is doing ok.

Weekend Reviews

I saw more movies than usual this weekend – 4 in total – so I wanted to share my thoughts on them. They cover the full range of my tastes – silly comedy (“Step Brothers”), big Hollywood action movie (“The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor”), English period film (“Brideshead Revisited”) and foreign language thiller (“Tell No On/ Ne le dis à personne”).

Movie Review: Tell No One – One of the 2008’s Best

Summer just ain’t the time for foreign films especially with the “Dark Knight” currently still ruling the known universe.

I would however, encourage everyone to strike out of the multiplex, find a Landmark theater and catch “Tell No One” the fantastic French thriller currently in most major markets.

Directed by Guillaume Canet, “Tell” is an exciting thriller about a man who receives signs that the wife he’s been mourning for 8 years may or may not be dead. He must find the truth before the police and/or a shadow group gets to him first.

When it was released in France in 2006, “Tell” won 4 “Cesar” awards (the French equivalent of the Oscars) including best Director and Actor for star François Cluzet thrilling performance. If you liked movies like “The Fugitive” or the “Bourne Identity” you will definitely enjoy this movie.

Check out the trailer:



The acting was very real and thus superb because it wasn’t showy or over the top. The scripts was outstanding, chock full of twists and turns while never leaving character development by the wayside. I was on the edge of my seat and gripping the seat in front of me while I watched the movie because it was really that suspenseful.

The only ding I can give the film is for the way the mystery was resolved. It felt like an old school Agatha Christie novel where the wrap up is a bit drawn out and not properly set up by everything before it. This is not to say that you can’t connect the dots based on what the film showed, you most certainly can but there was a lot of back-story and I found myself wondering when it might end.

That being said the final moments of the movie made up for everything because it is that heart breaking. For that scene alone I would recommend “Tell No One.” Luckily you have more than 2 hours of wonderful film to appreciate and enjoy before the movies delivers its own killing shot.

Run out now and buy your ticket. Waiting for the DVD is an option but why wait when you still have time to check out one of the best films of the year.

Movie Review: “Brideshead Revisited” – Not So Masterpiece Theater

The makers of “Brideshead Revisited” set out to make a staggering epic with their version of Evelyn Waugh’s epic saga of a comman man’s tragic relationship to an aristocratic family in the years between the great world wars.

I’m convinced they wanted to make a Merchant-Ivory calibur film and it is extremely unfortunate that they fell well short of their mark this time around. For all its granduer and opulence, “Brideshead” loses itself and its audience among the ins and outs of its immense storyline.

Led by the amazing 2x Oscar-winning actress Emma Thompson who portrays the smotheringly manipulative Lady Marchmain, the cast of “Brideshead” works very hard to give their characters depth and nuance over the course of the story’s 20+ years.

It is a shame the movies isn't better because I really wanted to love this film; I have been eagerly awaiting its arrival based on the movie trailer below:



Since this is a tale of manners, the other actors do a great job of conveying their emotions with glances, gestures and intonation. I particularly enjoyed Michael Gambon (Dumbledore in the “Harry Potter” series) as Thompson’s estranged husband, an almost unrecognizable Greta Saatchi as Gambon’s italian lover and the very promosing Matthew Goode (who was fantastic in 2007’s “The Lookout”) as the lead.

In the end, “Brideshead” is much too big to be contained in just over 2 hours. The origianal 1981 miniseries which starred Jeremy Irons clocked in at 11 hours so there was plenty of time to mine each corner and crevice of this mammoth tale. I had the same reaction to director Julian Jarrod 2007 “Becoming Jane” staring Anne Hathaway and James McAvoy – he trys very hard to cover all the beats of the story but in his rush to the finish line, the audience is left dazed and confused in his wake.

If you still want to see “Brideshead,” go for the beautiful settings and the great acting. Just know ahead of time that your visit might not be that memorable and you probably won’t want to visit again anytime soon.

Movie Review: The Mummy - Dead and Should be Buried

“It is a shame when mediocre movies happen to good actors.”

That was my thought when I left the theater on Friday after seeing “The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor”. God bless Brendan Frasier and Maria Bello (replacing Rachel Weisz in the series) for trying though – with better material, I think they could actually be a good duo.

Sadly, they decided to sign up for the 3rd installment (technically 4th movie if you count Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s “Scorpion King”) and the end product is quite beneath their talent.

Jet Li plays the evil mummy this time around – he is an evil warlord resurrected in mid 20th century and hell bent on world domination. Enter Frasier, Bello, their son Alex, played by Luke Ford and Michelle Yeoh who leads the band of fighters across half of Asia trying to stop Li.


It’s funny – while I was watching the movie I was reasonably entertained watching the movie’s plot unfold but it was only after I went home and thought back on the movie that I felt how truly bad it was especially after a somewhat ok trailer:




So many elements of the movie were tired – bad CGI Yeti, horrifically wordy and unfunny script, bad accents (especially Ford’s natural Australian accent came annoyingly in and out). The action/fighting sequences were actually fairly good but there just weren’t enough of them to balance out the rest of the movie’s dead height.

The unevenness of the movie should be not be a surprised because the director Rob Cohen’s filmography is a see-saw of good movies (“XXX,” “Fast and the Furious”) and horrifically bad dreck (2005’s “Stealth” for which I saw AND paid full price – I’ve been mad at Cohen ever since!).

Here’s the bottom-line: people fight, there are guns and things go “boom” in this movie. If you don’t mind a swiss-cheese plot and a clunky plot, get out of the heat and go see “The Mummy.” You won’t necessarily hate yourself after seeing it but you might deserve a time out after wasting your own time.

Movie Review: “Step Brothers” - Dumb Ass Delight

I could try and rationalize why I really liked this movie. I could say that it is a part of a string of movies that elevate improvisational satire to new heights of hilarity. I could say that Oscar voters should prepare to anoint this movie with nominations as it did “Juno” last year.

Fortunately, I can say none of these things about “Step Brothers” and it is all the better for it. Will Farrell stars as a 39 year old manchild whose mother remarries which pairs him with an equally stunted new step brother played by John C. Reilly. Both men refuse to grow up comedy thus ensues as we watch them strut and fret through their Peter Pan-like existence.

The comedy is broad, childish and definitely on the farside of crude and lewd. The attached trailer shows the extent of how twisted the move is:







Directed by Adam McKay, a former “Saturday Night Live” writer, “Step Brothers” is a part of long line of absurd comedies some of which McKary directed like “Talladega Nights” (also starting Farrell and Reily), “Anchorman” and the online-sensation “Landlord”. Many critics have blasted “Step Brothers” for its juvenile antics but I see it as an extended SNL sketch with all the blue language not allowed by the NBC sensors. The supporting cast inclding “Six Feet Under’s”Richard Jenkins, “Tell Me You Love Me’s” Adam Scott and the excruciatingly funny “Crossing Jordan” alum Kathryn Hahn who is currently on Broadway in the awesome “Boeing Boeing.” The bathroom scene between her and Reilly had me on rolling in seat because it was so funny.

See “Step Brothers” if you just want to have a good time - it is worth every penny and earns every laugh.

Christina Applegate Facing Cancer

Former “Married with Children” actress Christina Applegate announced that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer over the weekend according to "US Weekly".

The Emmy-winning star of ABC’s “Samantha Who?” is currently seeking medical treatment.

Much love and support to Christina. Her mother is a breast cancer survivor so this must be very tough for her.

Our thoughts and prayers!

Rent On GMA

I was looking through my DVR entries and I found the Friday morning performance of the current cast of the “Rent”. The current cast performed along with two of the original cast members, Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal.

It was a great appearance so I wanted to post one of the performances for all to see.



The long-running Broadway hit created by the late Jonathan Larson will be closing on Sunday September 7 and then going on a world-wide tour starting in January 2009. If you haven’t seen “Rent” I would HIGHLY recommend it – it tells the tale of a group of struggling artists in NYC set during a time when poverty and HIV were robbing many people of their lives (it’s sad how little things have changed).

The song featured here is “Seasons of Love” which is one of the most amazing songs written for the musical which won 4 Tonys and the Pulitzer Prize in 1996.

I’m still on the fence if I’m going to try and catch one of the final performances in NYC. Seeing this clip makes me want to head out now.

Enjoy!

Jolie-Pitt Baby Pics Arrive for All to See

It's that time - pics of the newest additions to the Jolie-Pitt household are here!

Knox and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt and 19 pages of Clan JP will be available on Monday 8/4 for all the world to see in People magazine (look at cute little Shiloh holding one of the tots in the upper right hand corner of the cover pic- all together, ahhhhhhh!).

And it only cost $6MM dollars for People magazine!

Ok - i really do hate all the baby pic payouts - why would the magrags pay such sums for exclusive pics and why do we run to the newsstands to check them out? I'm really not a fan though I will probably check them out just because.

But I won't like it!

Check out the gallery of the best celeb baby photos that "E! Online" has gathered for review.

New Harry Potter Trailer Released!

The new trailer for "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince" has been released and I actually like it especially the every end. I think this might be a very good addition to the series.

Take a look:

SF Mayor Goes for #2

San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsome got married for the second time over the weekend to actress/heiress Jennifer Siebel according to "People" Magazine.

Of course the bride wore Vera Wang - it is her first wedding after all!

Africa is the honeymoon destination and then back to the City by the Bay!

Congrats!

Dancing with the Stars Lineup Announcement - August 25

Dancing with Stars Lovers rejoice! The new lineup for the ABC hit show will be announced on August 25.

I hope they have some interesting folks this season - maybe Bea Arthur or Dan Rather. The fun, sexy crowd.

YouTube Hot Mess: Tricia Walsh-Smith Whacks Back At Kathie Lee

If you want to see something funny-sad, check out Tricia Walsh-Smith's YouTube video lashing back at Kathie Lee Gifford who told reports that Tricia needs to be "whacked."

In case you haven't heard of Tricia, she's the New York solialite whose husband is divorcing her and threantening to leave her nothing. Not satisfied to just take him to court, Tricia has released a series of YouTube videos outlining her grievances.

Check out her recent video - this woman is CRAZY but oddly facinating to watch. Insanity can be entertaining in some instances:

"Last Lecture" Prof Final Farewell

Sad, sad News: Carnegie Mellon professor Randy Pausch died Friday after a tough battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 47.

Pausch made a huge impact on the world with his "Last Lecture" urging people to achieve their childhood dreams which was a YouTube sensation and a New York Times-best seller.

I have to say I was deeply saddened by his death. Even though he was given a terminal diagnosis, he never looked terminal. Pausch was very forthright about his illness and how close to death he was but I guess I just thought he would beat it somehow.

I encourage everyone to pick up Randy's book and take his lessons about living life to the fullest to heart. I have been trying to follow his example and I am so glad I "heard" him. He will be missed but certainly not forgotten.

Here is a clip of his "Last Lecture" and check out Primetime Live on Tuesday, 7/29 to see Diane Sawyer's tribute to Randy:

If you ever thought YOU looked bad...

I was having a bad Monday morning - tired, a bit overwhelmed with all the things I have to do, feeling a bit blah, yadda, yadda, yadda....

And then I saw this pic of Madonna which the "Daily News" shot out around to the world and let me tell you kids I’m feeling a 100x better!

If I was Madonna and I saw this pic out in the world, I would do the following things immediately:

Go home and beat the shit out of the person who told me I looked good enough to go out of the house without any makeup. They LIED to you M!

Fire my plastic surgeon because he did a bad job and I now look like a Jack O' Lantern and it ain't cute.

Run not walk to KFC and get a two piece with a biscuit because judging by those thin arms, I am HUNGRY and I need to eat. NOW!

I'm not feeling so bad now I have to say. I hope you are having a better day as well!

“Sarah Marshall” Star Russell Brand Hosting MTV VMAs

VERY interesting news coming from the MTV camp – they’ve chosen British comedian/quasi-freak of nature Russell Brand to host the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards.

If you saw him in “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” you know Russell Brand is kind of funny as a wacked out brit music superstar. When I think about it he was kind of one of the best things about the movie actually.

You don't realize though that his freakdom isn’t confined to the silver screen until you see him on a talk show. He isn't just in character; he is really wacked out ALL THE TIME. Look at the hair people and tell me there isn't something wrong here.

The VMAs will be broadcast live on Sunday September 7 at 9pm ET.

Hear me now MTV – this could either work really well or it will blow up in your face. Big time. And you know we will talk about you like a dog.

For S&Gs, here is a clip of Brand on Letterman talking about his immigration issues. I have to admit he is kind of funny.

Check it out:

Idol Judges Go from Bad to Worse

Ornery “American Idol” judge Simon Cowell was voted favorite reality TV villain by the American public in a poll conducted by AOL television. In a shock to NO one who watches AI, Simon’s co-host Paula Abdul was voted the worst reality TV judge. AI was named best reality show on US television.

Of course Randy Jackson and host Ryan Seacrest were ignored by America. Does this mean they will be voted off?

All this good news just in time for the start of season 8 auditions.

Lord help us all (but you know I WILL be watching!)

Advertising: “Iron Man” vs. “The Dark Knight”

Ad Age has done a great job breaking down and comparing the marketing strategies for "The Dark Knight" vs. "Iron Man."

Among the cool things the article’s author Antony Young calls out in his piece:

For Iron Man, Paramount’s marketing team did a great job creating early fan base buzz with a spectacular Comic-con appearance back in 2007. They also benefitted from revealing the first trailer for the film during the Super Bowl. They even went so far as the feature the movie tie-in on CMT’s “Trick My Truck”.

For TDK, online marketing, PR and over 15 different TV spots went a long way toward making Warner Bros' marketing plan sizzle. The TDK pr team received particularly high marks for the respectful handling of the tragic death of Heath Ledger. For my part, I love the viral marketing stuff. The Joker site WhySoSerious.com, the Harvey Dent site IBelieveInHarveyDent.com, the fictional Gotham Times, a Subway Map site and the main TDK website were all spectacular.

Very interesting stuff. Enjoy!

Honoring Estelle: “Golden Girls” Marathon set for Friday 7/25

Lifetime TV will air a 5 hour, 10 episode special tribute to Estelle Getty this coming Friday from 12 -5 ET. Ms. Getty won an Emmy award for her portrayal of feisty Sophia on the long running show. Ms Getty was 84 when she passed away this past Tuesday.

Fans have a chance to vote on final episode of the marathon.

Click here to cast your vote.

I wish I could stay home and watch the shows but alas I have to work!

Captain America/X-men Comic Writer Going Online for Sony

Popular comic book creator Ed Brubaker is leading the development of an online live-action series entitled “Angel of Death” for Sony Pictures Television Reuters reports.

Brubaker is famous for killing Marvel Comics icon Captain America in the pages of that character's monthly comic book series earlier this year. Brubaker is also the writer of two other flagship Marvel comic book titles, “Uncanny X-men” and “Daredevil.”

“Angel” will stream live on Sony’s video hub Crackle.com. A release date is still forthcoming but in the meantime, you should check Crackle out. I've been digging around in it and it has some really cool stuff.

Movies in the Works: Hairspray 2 and Rocky Horror Remake

Variety is reporting 2 interesting stories today.

First, New Line Cinema is asking John Waters to pen a treatment for a sequel to his smash stage and screen hit “Hairspray.” The studio is clamoring to get everyone one from the original film including star John Travolta back for the second time around though as of yet things are still in the planning stages. I can’t wait to see John T. back in that fat suit – maybe this time he will go all the way with co-star Christopher Walken?

Oh, not the best mental picture, huh?

Next, MTV is planning a remake of the cult hit “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” originally released in 1975. The remake of “Rocky H.” will use the original script by Jim Sharman and Richard O’Brien.

I wonder who they will get to wear the fishnet and panties costume of the character Dr. Frank-N-Furter, originally played by Tim Curry.

Brad Pitt, Matt Damon or Christian Bale – the mind boggles at the possibilities!

Britney Back? Not Quite Babydoll

Media outlets are raving that Britney Spears has returned to form based on her appearance at the Generation Rescue event hosted by Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey.

Somebody tell me how Britney is back? She wore little black dress, nice shoes and a good wig. That is not a comebackpeople - Britney is just acting like she has some damn sense.

I ain't mad at ya Brit - I'm just tired of you making news for doing nothing.

Week 2 Project Runway Update: Wesley has Got to Go!

Episode 2 of Bravo's "Project Runway" is a done deal and Wes was voted off the runway. He failed the green challenge miserably with that “unflattering and poorly designed” cocktail dress.

I thought he might stay along longer but I can understand why the judges gave him the boot. The dress was just a satin mess and he should have done a better job. I still can’t stand Stella so I’m hoping she will get kicked off next week.

Here is a clip of the last 3 minutes of so featuring Wes’ elimination:


Here is Wes’ exit interview (check it out: he may look preppy but his MA vernacular shines through when he says he's "wicked disappointed" about being sent home):


In case you didn’t know Wes - here is his intro/bio video – hold back the tears kids as you watch Wes discuss his design dreams which were utterly crushed tonight:

More Racy Gossip Girl Ads

Here are two more "Gossip Girl" ads for general consumption and adoration from "People" magazine.

I posted the first 2 ads in the campaign here.

So wrong but they look so good.

Enjoy!

Celebrity Baby News

Congrats to Ethan Hawke and new bride Ryan Shawhughes– they welcomed little Clementine Jane on Friday in New York City. This makes baby #3 for Mr. Hawke – he has a son and daughter with his former wife Uma Thurman

“Juno” and “Alias” star Jennifer Gardner confirmed yesterday that she is indeed 4 months pregnant with her 2nd child. She and husband Ben Affleck have a baby girl named Violet.

Mazel Tov to all the proud parents. I hope you get sleep sometime in the next decade or so!

Hump Day Hot Mess – DMX arrested again

I swore I wouldn’t do it. I mean I pinky swore, cross my heart and hoped to die SWORE I would not write about DMX and his string of arrests this week. If he acted an ass and got arrested next week, I would have no trouble. But this week – no DMX mentions.

And then news broke that brothaman was indicted for two felony counts of theft and false identity after trying to get out of getting paying his hospital bill after being treated for pneumonia in April. That makes 6 arrests in 3 months!

Note to all current, about-to-be and wanna-be rap and hip hop artists: try to save some of your money for INSURANCE! I tell you – I’m so tired of these trifling black men – as my momma would say “ya’ll need to go somewhere and sit your asses down.”

Get it together DMX. It ain’t cute anymore.

HOT Honey Alert: New Eva Mendes Calvin Klein Ads

Head on over to "People" Magazine and read up on the new Eva Mendes Calvin Klein ads. They are hot stuff – just as hot as the Becks Armani ads currently in the market.

Because I'm an equal opportunity guy, here is one of the David Beckham Armani Ads:

Enjoy!

Hey Money – Top Tinseltown Earners

Will Smith and Cameron Diaz have much to celebrate this morning – “Forbes Magazine” has anointed them the top male and female earners in Hollywood.

In the year spanning June 1, 2007 through June 1, 2008, Mr. Smith took home an estimated $80MM while Cameron D. took home a staggering $50MM.

Now we all know that Big Willie works his off in movies like “Hancock” and “I am Legend” but damn, who knew the “Shrek” paid such so well? Ms. D. only did three things in the past year, “Shrek 3,” “Shrek the Halls” and “What Happens in Vegas.”

Now let me tell you – “Vegas” which co-starred Ashton Kutcher - tanked at the box office which doesn’t surprise me one bit: I saw it and I can tell you that it STANK to high heaven!

I ain’t made at your Cameron – go on with ya bad self! Independent woman have to get paid too! It must pay to be green!

Scary note: the top men and women collectively made over $731MM last year. All together now: DAAMMNN!

TV Watch Part 2: Project Runway

So my current favorite reality program is on tonight also.

Bravo's "Project Runway"

The 2nd episode of “Project Runway” airs tonight on Bravo. Hosted by supermodel Hedi Klum, tonight’s episode will feature guest host Academy-award nominated actress Natalie Portman. It will be fun to see how the designers “work” tonight’s challenge which according to my man Tim Gunn is a PR 1st.

Check out this PR preview of episode #2:

TV Watch Part 1: CNN's Black in America

As my peeps know, my deep affection for television is very well known. I love TV and I think it is one of the most amazing mediums ever created.

Tonight there are two great examples of how TV can inform and entertain. Here is the first show:

CNN's "Black in America"
First up, CNN premieres the first installment of a two part “Black in America” series hosted by CNN anchor Soledad O’Brien.

Based on over a year of reporting, the series will attempt to shed light on the complex issue of race in an America facing the prospect of an African-American president in 2009.

Tonight’s episode is entitled “Black in America: The Black Woman and Family;” part 2, airing tomorrow night is “Black in America: The Black Man”. Both episodes will air for 2 hours beginning at 9pm ET.

Here is a preview for the series and a segment featuring Whoopi Goldberg talking about the challenges of being black in America (especially the "you are so articulate" comment those of in the know get ALL THE TIME - thank you Whoopi for articulating our frustration with the "compliment"):

Series preview:


Whoopi Goldberg segment:


According to Broadcast Newsroom, supports of the series apparently were so moved they went out and started their own social networking site for socially-conscious African-Americans, BlackInAmerica.com. I should note, the site is not affiliated with CNN. I'm going to check out the site and report back and let ya'll know what I think!

I will definitely tune in and I encourage others to do so as well. Both the New York Times and the Washington Post had favorable things to say about the series.

Sneak Peek: Watch the Watchmen

The new trailer for the "Watchmen" has been released and it is HOT!!

Take a look:


Directed by "300" director, Zack Snyder, "Watchmen" tells the story of world where superheroes are either outlawed or controlled by the government. When a hero is murdered, the truth threatens to destroy everyone.

Based on the Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons graphic novel, "Watchmen" is one of the best graphic novels ever created. EW has a great first look - head over and check it out for yourselves!

March 6 2009 is the release date - be told!

Slow Leak of Steamy New Gossip Girl Ads

The CW is on the ball kids – hot new “Gossip Girl” ads have starting showing up online. July isn’t even over and we are already seeing ads for returning fall shows.

I should feel sad but what the hay – the marketing department at the CW has to eat so why not push out the new ads sooner rather than later.

I ain’t mad at ya CW and I’m not going to hate on you.

Instead, I’m going to share the two ads I’ve been able to find so far – the first features Blake Lively and the other Alex Westwick. New episodes of Gossip Girl begin airing on September 1 just in time for Back to School.

The ads are pretty scary with the soft lighting along and the looks of pretend ecstasy. Aren’t these kids supposed to be high school!?! I don’t see a zit anywhere – so NOT real.

Enjoy!

The Ben Show in the Balcony - New "At the Movies" Hosts

ABC-Disney Domestic Television announced that Ben Lyons and Ben Mankiewicz will be the new hosts for "At the Movies" starting September 6.

With both Richard Roeper and Roger Ebert moving on to new things, ABC decided to bring in fresh blood for the popular movie review show. Lyons, 26, is a Hollywood reporter and movie review for "E! News" while Mankiewicz has been a host on Turner Classic Movies.

While it is too early to pass judgment on the Ben Show yet, I hope the new direction for the show will be worth the time and effort otherwise I'm going to boycott.

Be warned!

RIP: Golden Girl Estelle Getty dead at 84

Sad news from Hollywood: Emmy-award winning actress Estelle Getty of the "Golden Girls" died today at the age of 84.

Ms. Getty suffered from advanced dementia which kept her out the off the limelight for years now.

Though she spent 40 years as a working actress in Hollywood, Ms Getty will be best remembered for her role as Sophia on NBC's "Golden Girls." She won a Best Supporting Actress Emmy Award in 1988 for her work.

I loved watching the "Golden Girls" and Ms. Getty's Sophia was always good for laugh. As soon as she said "Picture it, Sicily...." you knew you in for a great laugh from this incredible actress.

My thoughts and prayers are with family and friends.

Just for fun, here is a great clip of Ms. Getty in action:


And for even more fun, here is the "Estelle Getty Workout Video Remix" with Beyonce and Destiny's Child providing the soundtrack:

Wendy Williams Beats Montel Williams In NYC

In the ratings game at least!

Williams’ show “The Wendy Williams Show” was among the top shows in its time lot for women viewers during its first week in New York City. This represents a huge lift from its time-slot predecessor Montel Williams according to Broadcasting and Cable.com.

Hot mess note: Wendy and "Apprentice" cast-off Omarosa got into a politely bitchy cat fight last Friday. There is something sad about black women trying to cut each other by calling out about the various plastic surgery, wigs, implants and such.

Take a look and judge relentlessly for yourself:

Final note: I love how Alessandra Stanley of the New York Times covered the launch of the show by calling Ms. Wendy "startingly mean-spirited" (later in the article Ms. Stanley proceeds to remark that Wendy "favors RuPaul"- who is being mean-spirited NOW huh!?!

Batman Star Facing Family Assault Charges?

Say it isn’t so Batman! Sadly yes, actor Christian Bale is facing allegations that he assaulted his mother and one of older sisters in a posh west London hotel on Sunday just before the European premiere of "The Dark Knight".

Reports say authorities wanted to question the Welsh-born actor on Monday but the questioning was postponed. Apparently authorities did not want to interfere with the premiere of the new "Batman" film franchise installment.

Representatives for Mr. Bale were unreachable but I'm not surprised: what can they say to spin this story? You can't be accused of beating your Momma and Big Sis and look good in the public eye. I don’t care if you had a $155.8MM dollar weekend or not, you just can't do that.

I hope things are cleared up – we just don’t need any more drama like this. Besides we have “Terminator Salvation” coming in summer 2009 – we need John Connor free so he can finish the movie!

Increase the peace Batman!

UPDATE: Bale was arrested and released after turning himself in for questioning. He is due back for further questioning in September.

No Me Diga? No ALMA Nom for Longoria Parker!

The nominations for the 2008 NCLR ALMA Award, honoring Latino and Latina achievements in entertainment were announced today. Now you tell me – ain’t this some unmitigated mess - Eva Longoria Parker host and executive producer of this years ALMA’s was NOT nominated for her role on ‘Desperate Housewives.”

Now my Latin brothers and sisters – ya’ll have got to tell me you can snub Eva when each and everyone of you know she is one of the funniest things on TV let alone DH!?!

And don’t even get me started on ALMA’s snub of “Ugly Betty’s” America Ferrera because even Helen Keller could see how wrong it is to kick Betty S to the curb. I mean come on, how can you even have a “Best Lead Actress in a Comedy Series without Eva and America – aren’t they the only two who matter!?!

[And before anyone starts – I’ve seen the lead actress in a comedy list and I’m sorry but the rest of the nominated ladies cannot and do not roll like Eva and America.]

I’m mad now. Ya’ll can take a look at the rest of the nominees – I’m going go find my serenity now ya’ll! The ALMAs will be broadcast live on Friday, September 12 at 8pm on ABC.

Balcony Closed for Good? Apparently yes: Roeper leaves Movie Review Show

Apparently the movie theater balcony will be closed for some time to come: “At the Movies” lead host Richard Roeper has decided not to renew his contract with Disney-ABC Domestic Television at the end of the 2007-2008 season according to AP.

The final curtain call comes from the man himself Roger Ebert the surviving original host of “At the Movies”. In a statement on his website, Ebert confirms that he will not be involved in the new direction ABC has planned for the show. Ebert made his last appearance on the show in 2006 just before complications from cancer treatment robbed him of his voice and thus is ability to appear on air.

In a statement, Roeper says that he was unable to come to an agreement on a new contract with the studio and would be exiting the show. His final appearance on the show will air the weekend of August 16-17.

Ebert notes that the “thumbs will return” since the “Thumbs up/down” catch phrase is still owned by him and Marlene Iglitzen, his late screen partner Gene Siskel’s widow.

I’ll save my thoughts on the show until the final airing but I will say things have been going down downhill for some time so a refresh has been desperately needed. I just wish Ebert and Roeper were still along for the ride. For now, we’ll just get ready for the beginning of the end.