INTERVIEW: Jaclyn Smith Talks SVU
I caught up with Jaclyn Smith recently to discuss her new wig and hairpiece line (paulayoung.com/style-by-jaclyn-smith — more on that later this week!), and I asked her about her role in tonight's Law & Order: SVU.
What can you tell me about the episode and your part in it?
I sort of want my part in it to be a surprise, but it was good to get back into [doing some acting]. I had worked with Dick Wolf on Christine Cromwell many years ago, and I am a fan of the Law and Order shows. It was great to get back onto a show that I love watching. Mariska Hargitay and Chris Meloni were so wonderful to work with. They’ve been doing this for 11 years now, and they've got it down — boy, they know what they’re doing!
It was such a challenging role for me, because it’s different from my demeanor. But once you get through a challenge, you feel so much stronger and better, and you’re glad you got out there and did it. I’d been turning some things down, and I’d been out of town a lot, and I just couldn’t seem to work in things that had been offered to me. It was my first time in a while that I got out to do something that I am used to doing, but there had been some time [between acting jobs], so it was a little scary. But once I got there, I felt right at home. It was really fulfilling for me.
I think you’ll be surprised when you see it. It’s an unusual character for me. But it was fun, it was really fun.
Catch Jaclyn, along with Ann-Margret, Morgan Fairchild and Susan Anton on Law & Order: SVU on NBC tonight at 10/9c. Go here for a sneak preview: www.nbc.com/Law_and_Order_Special_Victims_Unit/video/sneak-peek-of-bedtime/1212109/
Stand and Deliver Teacher Dies of Cancer
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(from the Associated Press)Jaime Escalante transformed a tough East Los Angeles high school by motivating struggling inner-city students to master advanced math, became one of America's most famous teachers and inspired the movie "Stand and Deliver."
He died Tuesday at age 79 after battling cancer for several years, family friend Keith Miller said.
Escalante used his outsized personality to goad his working-class Mexican-American students to succeed, said Elsa Bolado, 45, one of his former pupils.
"Teaching is an art form. There's a lot of practicioners and very few artists. He was a master artist," she said.
An immigrant from Bolivia, he overhauled Garfield High School's math curriculum and pushed his students to do their best until the school had more advanced placement calculus students than all but four other public high schools in the country.
Edward James Olmos played Escalante in the 1988 film based on his story.
"Jaime exposed one of the most dangerous myths of our time — that inner city students can't be expected to perform at the highest levels," Olmos said. "Because of him, that destructive idea has been shattered forever."
Q and A: Week of March 31
Q: Jaclyn Smith (pictured) is one of my favorite actresses — she is the epitome of beauty and class. Can you tell me what she has been up to lately? — Georgia F., Chattanooga, Tenn.A: While I agree that Jaclyn, 66, is the epitome of beauty and class, she also is the epitome of BUSY! On the acting front, she recently completed a guest-starring stint on “Law and Order: SVU,” which airs tonight. She’s also very much involved with her Jaclyn Smith Collection of clothing and home goods for K-Mart. Most recently, she has teamed up with Jose Eber and Paula Young to develop a line of wigs, extensions and hairpieces called Style by Jaclyn Smith (paulayoung.com/style-by-jaclyn-smith).
Jaclyn also is involved with a film called “1 a Minute,” a docudrama that focuses on breast-cancer awareness. “Enlightening women everywhere is so important,” says Jaclyn, who successfully battled breast cancer in 2002. “You need a mammogram every year, and you can’t base it on price analysis. If I hadn’t had mine, my diagnosis and my prognosis could have been quite different.”
Q: I was just wondering what happened to one of my favorite TV shows, “Without a Trace”? Will it be coming back? — Addie H., via e-mail
A: CBS pulled the plug on the missing-persons crime drama back in May, citing declining ratings. Series regular Anthony LaPaglia has been keeping himself very busy with various film roles, his most recent being “A View From the Bridge,” an adaptation of the famous Arthur Miller play in which Anthony will take on the lead role of Eddie (and he is also a producer). Poppy Montgomery stars in the ABC pilot “True Blue,” about six former best friends who rose through the ranks at the San Francisco Police Department and reunite to solve the murder of one of their own.
Q: I love Ralph Fiennes and try to see every movie he’s in. Has he ever been married? — Deanna S. in Florida
A: Ralph, 47, has been married once, to actress Alex Kingston from 1993-97, whom he met while they were both attending the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Alex is best known for playing Dr. Elizabeth Corday on “ER.” Recently, she co-starred on ex-brother-in-law Joseph Fiennes’ new ABC series, “FlashForward,” as Fiona Banks. In 2006, Ralph and longtime love, Francesca Annis (who played Gertrude to his Hamlet on Broadway), separated after 11 years together. Ralph most recently appeared in a small but unforgettable role in the Oscar-winning film “The Hurt Locker,” and will appear this May in “Clash of the Titans” with old friend and “Schindler’s List” co-star Liam Neeson.
Q: I really enjoy “History Detectives” on PBS. Will it be back soon? — Mary S., via e-mail
A: Season 8 of “History Detectives” premieres this June on PBS with new host Dr. Eduardo Pagan. In the first episode, Elyse Luray goes on the road as she investigates a story about an unusual musical instrument — the theremin.
Jesse James Goes to Rehab
Jesse James is going the rehab route to try to save his marriage to Oscar-winning actress Sandra Bullock — and, it would appear, to save face — according to his representative."Jesse checked himself into a treatment facility to deal with personal issues," his rep said in a statement. "He realized that this time was crucial to help himself, help his family and help save his marriage."
For the full article, go to people.com.
V Returns Tonight!
Don't forget: V returns tonight on ABC in its new timeslot after Lost, which is 10 pm EST. This new episode is called “Welcome to the War.” SUMMARY: Erica suddenly has to battle for her life, Anna is upset with Chad, and Ryan is concerned about Val’s pregnancy — and the resistance continues to grow.
Stephenie Meyer to Release Eclipse-Related Novella
Attention Twilight fans: Stephenie Meyer has a new book coming out.
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers will release The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner on June 5.
The novella is told from the viewpoint of Bree, a newborn vampire featured in Eclipse. That's one of the books in Meyer's best-selling teen-vampire saga.
Meyer says in a statement Tuesday the novella had originally been planned for The Twilight Saga: The Official Guide. But she says it became too long to fit into the guide.
The publisher says one dollar for each book sold in the U.S. from the first printing of 1.5 million copies will be donated to the American Red Cross International Response Fund. It supports disaster relief efforts such as those in Haiti and Chile.
Bruce and Demi: Blast From the Past
Back in 2002, former couple but still good friends, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, brought daughters Rumer and Scout (I think Tallulah was too young for the ride) to Disney's MGM (now Hollywood) Studios for some good, old-fashioned family fun. One of the rides they went on was the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror ride. Ya know how a camera takes your picture during the scary part of rides, so you can buy said picture and remember how much fun you had? Well, a friend of mine worked at MGM at the time, and brought home this picture of Bruce, Demi, et al, and now that my friend no longer works there and doesn't have a fear of getting fired for scanning this pic, I can now feel free to post here. I hope Demi and Bruce like it.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Grand Opening June 18
(all photos © 2010 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.)
SPOILER ALERT!!!
If you don't want to know anything about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride at Universal Studios Orlando, then read no further.
ORLANDO, Fla. (March 25, 2010) – One of the most widely anticipated theme park entertainment experiences ever created – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort – is set for a public grand opening on June 18.
Today, Universal Orlando Resort also revealed details about what is expected to be one the most exciting theme park experiences ever created: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. It will be one of three themed attractions within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including Flight of the Hippogriff and Dragon Challenge.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is the heart of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This all new adventure combines a powerful storyline with spectacular new technology so effectively that guests will be completely immersed in the experience.
And as they live their adventure, guests will feel things no one has ever felt inside a theme park attraction, move in ways no one has ever moved, experience film like no one else ever has, explore vast sets punctuated by amazing special effects – and have an adventure only possible in Harry Potter’s world.
The new attraction lies deep within Hogwarts castle, a majestic structure that towers over The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - the only place in the world where the wonder, excitement and adventure of the Harry Potter books and films comes to life.
The Adventure
Imagine…
…meeting Harry, Ron and Hermione as if they were in person
…soaring over Hogwarts castle with Harry
…being swept into a Quidditch match
…feeling the chilling effect of a Dementor
…exploring your favorite places inside Hogwarts castle
…living adventures you’ve only been able to imagine – until now.
The Story
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey draws you into the excitement and chaos of Harry's life. As you venture through Hogwarts castle, you meet Harry, Ron and Hermione who convince you to skip a planned lecture and follow them. Upon taking their advice, you travel by Floo powder, and begin the adventure as you soar over Hogwarts, narrowly escape a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, get pulled into a Quidditch match and more.
“Guests will experience firsthand a completely new adventure featuring the iconic characters, amazing creatures and recognizable locations they’ve only read in the books or seen in the films,” said Thierry Coup, creative director for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The Location
The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey experience starts as soon as you walk through the gates of Hogwarts. Within the towering Hogwarts castle, you explore a truly magical place. You journey through iconic locations taken from the films and take in the extraordinary detail of each scene. They include:
· Dumbledore’s office: Here, you meet the Headmaster as he welcomes you to Hogwarts
· Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom: Where you first meet Harry, Ron and Hermione
· Gryffindor common room: You meet three additional characters who prepare you for your journey
· Room of Requirement: Here, with hundreds of floating candles above, you take your seat on an enchanted bench and begin the Forbidden Journey
· Other locations: In addition, guests will pass through the Dungeon passageway and hallways of Hogwarts where they will have the chance to see hundreds of wizard portraits from the films, including several magical talking portraits created exclusively for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including the four founders of Hogwarts. Guests will even get a glimpse of the Sorting Hat.
The Innovation
This is more than just an attraction and it is unlike any theme park experience ever created. It’s a revolutionary, 360-degree theme park experience and first-ever combination of live-action, advanced robotic technology and innovative filmmaking – specially designed and developed for this brand-new adventure.
“We have created an entirely new way to place our guests into the heart of one of the most compelling stories of our time,” said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. “What we have done will forever change the theme park attraction experience.”
The attraction’s newly created ride system envelops guests in filmed action scenes and moves those scenes with them as they travel through the ride, allowing more time in the center of the adventure and with their favorite characters. This fusion of robotic technology and filmed scenes has never been achieved until now. In some cases, technology had to be invented to achieve the highest level of guest experience. The combination of pioneering, state-of-the-art technology, innovative filmmaking and surprises around every corner make this attraction the embodiment of the Harry Potter book and film series—and the future of theme park entertainment.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Quick Facts
* Storyline: As you venture through Hogwarts, you meet Harry, Ron and Hermione, who convince you to skip a planned lecture and follow them. Upon taking their advice you travel by Floo powder, and begin your adventure as you soar over Hogwarts, narrowly escape a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, get pulled into a Quidditch match and more.
* First-ever combination of advanced robotic ride system technology with innovative, immersive filmmaking
* Award-winning composer John Williams oversaw the creation of the attraction’s score
* The queue includes the following Harry Potter book and film elements: Headmaster Dumbledore’s office, Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, Gryffindor common room, Room of Requirement, and the greenhouse; talking portraits including the Fat Lady and the never-before-seen four founders: Godric Gryffindor, Salazar Slytherin, Helga Hufflepuff and Rowena Ravenclaw; the Sorting Hat, the One-Eyed Witch statue and the Mirror of Erised
* Duration of ride: The full attraction experience, including the queue, takes about an hour
* Number of scenes in the attraction: 12
* Characters (featuring Harry Potter film talent): Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Albus Dumbledore, Rubeus Hagrid and Draco Malfoy
* You may also catch a glimpse of Fred and George Weasley, Ginny Weasley and Neville Longbottom
For the latest news about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.
Chris Evans Is the New Captain America
(from Yahoo entertainment news)Chris Evans will play Steve Rogers, also known as Captain America.
Sources said that not only has the actor accepted Marvel's offer for the big-screen role, but that the deal-making moved so fast it's now all about dotting the i's and crossing the t's.
Marvel would not comment on the development, and Creative Artists Agency, which represents the actor, declined comment.
Evans was offered the role in Marvel Studios' production late last week, but there was some question of whether he would accept. Factoring in to the choice was the fact that Evans played Johnny Storm, the flame-covered superhero known as the Human Torch in 20th Century Fox's Fantastic Four movies. Was he ready to play another superhero and take on the trappings that come with such a high-profile part?
Evans took a few days to think it over, and once he decided he was willing to wield the shield, negotiations moved quickly over the weekend.
Q and A: Week of March 22
Q: I would like to know if Sean Astin, who narrated “Meerkat Manor,” is Sally Field’s son. — Edith P., Warner Robins, Ga.A: Sean Astin, also of “Goonies” and “Lord of the Rings” fame, is the son of a famous actress; however, it is not Sally Field. Patty Duke is Sean’s mom, and his father is Michael Tell, to whom Patty was married for less than a month before getting the marriage annulled. His stepfather, actor John Astin (Gomez of “The Addams Family”) adopted Sean and brought him up as his own.
Sean — a husband and father of three — is busy directing, acting and doing voice-over work. He is currently working on the animated feature “Cat Tale,” starring as a cat named Rover, along with the vocal talents of Stanley Tucci, Elisha Cuthbert, Catherine O’Hara, David Cross, Fred Willard and a whole slew of other A-listers.
Q: I really like “The Deep End” on ABC. The redheaded legal secretary looks a lot like Victoria, the vampire from “Twilight.” Is it the same person? And will the show be back? — Crystal G. in Michigan
A: That is indeed Rachelle Lefevre playing Katie Campbell. She also plays Victoria in “Twilight” and “New Moon.” Due to misunderstandings and scheduling conflicts, Rachelle was replaced by Bryce Dallas Howard in “Eclipse,” the third installment of “The Twilight Saga.” ABC has not yet made a decision on whether “The Deep End” will be renewed. For now, all five episodes can be found on ABC.com.
Q: I was a faithful viewer of “Deadwood,” and I wonder what its star, Ian McShane (pictured), is doing now. — Henry F., via e-mail
A: Ian McShane is all set to play Blackbeard in “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.” He joins Johnny Depp, who returns for the fourth time as the lovable pirate, Jack Sparrow, as they face off against each other in their quest to locate the Fountain of Youth. Penelope Cruz also is ready to set sail. Shooting will begin this summer, and the film is scheduled for release in May 2011. Do I smell summer blockbuster?
Q: I have been a fan of Jan-Michael Vincent for many years. Can you give me a little history on him? — Sandy L., Oatman, Ariz.
A: In the 1970s and ’80s, Jan-Michael Vincent, now 65, was the go-to man for good-looking, square-jawed protagonists. His career reached its pinnacle during the 1980s with his starring role on TV’s “Airwolf.” In 1996, he was involved in a very serious car accident in which his neck was broken and his vocal cords damaged. He was in another car accident in 2008. Jan-Michael has battled alcoholism most of his adult life with numerous arrests involving DUIs and public drunkenness. Since his 2002 appearance in “White Boy,” Jan-Michael has stayed out of the public spotlight.
Edie Falco Is Back for a New Season of Nurse Jackie
Nurse Jackie Peyton was passed out from a hit of morphine when we last saw her, an attempt at a momentary escape from life's troubles.
Now it's time to wake up and face real life again.
The second season of Showtime's Nurse Jackie premieres tonight at 10 p.m. ET.
Edie Falco's title character has, shall we say, a few flaws: She is addicted to drugs, cheats on her husband with her supplier and is willing to bend hospital rules if they suit her way of doing her job.
Despite these blemishes, Jackie is a sympathetic and popular character, even with real nurses concerned about the portrayal of their professional before the series even started. As it turned out, "Nurse Jackie" was the most-watched new series in Showtime's history when it debuted in June 2009.
(photo courtesy Showtime)
Did Jesse Cheat on Sandra?
UPDATE: Jesse James says he's sorry for the pain and embarrassment he's caused his wife Sandra Bullock and his three children from previous relationships. He told People magazine in a statement Thursday that he exhibited "poor judgment" and "I deserve everything bad that is coming my way."(from nydailynews.com)
Ten days after her tearful, triumphant Best Actress Oscar win, Sandra Bullock was blindsided by news that her bad-boy husband, Jesse James, cheated on her with a tattoo model.
Michelle (Bombshell) McGee admitted to steamy romps with Bullock's motorcycle man husband, but insists James told her his marriage to America's sweetheart is over.
"I would never have hooked up with him if I thought he was a married man," McGee told In Touch Weekly. "He gave me the impression they were separated."
News of the affair broke as Bullock abruptly canceled her plans to walk the red carpet at next week's London premiere of The Blind Side, for which she won the Best Actress Oscar on March 7.
"Due to unforeseen personal reasons, a trip abroad to support The Blind Side has been deemed impossible at this time," Warner Brothers said.
Bullock also moved out of the Los Angeles home she shared with James, people.com reported.
Read more here.
The Apprentice Will Return, Minus Celebs
Donald Trump isn't firing The Celebrity Apprentice, but he's bringing back the regular edition of the show with 14 ordinary job-hunters plagued by the economic crisis.NBC and Trump said Wednesday they want to put America back to work with the show, which is expected to air this fall. The original civilian version of The Apprentice premiered in 2004, then two years ago was replaced by The Celebrity Apprentice format.
"But since the economy went down the tubes, people have been saying, 'Would it be possible to bring back the original?" Trump said. "In a way, it's more important now than when we first did it."
Trump's revived Apprentice will recruit candidates who have lost their jobs, are stuck with jobs they don't like just to get by or have finished college with no offers in sight. The only common denominator: "Everybody has to be smart," Trump said. "They all have to have brain power."
Taping begins this summer.
Jennifer Love Hewitt and Jamie Kennedy Split
Jennifer Love Hewitt, 31, and her Ghost Whisperer co-star Jamie Kennedy, 39, have quietly split after a year together.It was "a mutual decision, and we've parted as friends," said Jennifer. "There's no anger, there's no upset, there's no enemies." She added that the pair's pre-existing friendship has made it easy to transition to working together as exes: "It's been totally fine. It's really a testament to who he is and to who I am. We're both grownups."
Q and A: Week of March 15
Q: I really loved “Avatar” and have been hearing talk of sequel(s). Please tell me this is true! — David G., via e-mailA: Director James Cameron has hinted that the rumors are true. I spoke recently with CCH Pounder (pictured left; photo credit Geneva Morgan) — who plays Mo’at, the mother of Neytiri and the spiritual leader of Omaticaya clan of Pandora — and she also verified that the idea of further adventures on Pandora is definitely a great possibility. CCH explains: “I know that he (James Cameron) did semi-announce that he is going to make a sequel — that he is going to take a break, but he did have a story idea. I think perhaps it was always that this would be some sort of a trilogy story.
“I don’t think it would take as long, because we already have the world of Pandora created, and it all exists in the digital world. All you have to do is put the story and characters in it. I think, Suzy, his wife, would greatly appreciate a break, and his children would love to see him hang about a bit. He’s kind of a workaholic guy. It might be four years, and it might be next year (that he starts working on it).”
Q: I was really starting to get into the new Fox show “Past Life,” but I suddenly can’t find it on the schedule anymore. Has it been canceled, or is it merely on hiatus? — Charity E., via e-mail
A: After airing only three episodes, Fox has decided to pull the plugged on the struggling and poorly received supernatural crime thriller. It has been replaced by original episodes of “Kitchen Nightmares.”
A: The Season Five winner of “American Idol” is currently touring the country in “Grease,” playing the role of Teen Angel. He also recently released his first concert DVD called “Whomp at the Warfield,” which is sure to delight members of his “Soul Patrol.” When I caught up with Taylor recently, he told me how much he is enjoying trying his hand at acting: “(Being in “Grease”) has been great. It’s allowed me to get into acting and understand role-playing, and it’s just a great starting point for me in the acting field.”
Q: Is it true that someone is making a film about Facebook? How is it possible to turn that into a film? — Frank J., via e-mail
A: Production has begun on “The Social Network,” which stars Rashida Jones, Justin Timberlake and Jesse Eisenberg, and is directed by David Fincher (“Fight Club,” “Se7en,” “Panic Room” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”). Shelby Young (“Days of Our Lives” and “Wild Child”) recently finished shooting her supporting role in the film. While she couldn’t tell me much about the movie or her role in it (they have all signed confidentiality agreements so the story doesn’t leak out), what she could tell me is that the movie is about the founders of the social-networking site Facebook. Like many of the film’s stars, Shelby admits, “I am such a huge fan of ‘Fight Club,’ so the chance to work with David Fincher, I just couldn’t pass that up.” Look for “The Social Network” in theaters come October.
Q: At the end of last season it was stated that “Friday Night Lights” was coming back this year. Has that changed? I haven’t been able to find anything about it. — Phillis M., via e-mail
A: Season Four of “FNL” is slated to premiere Friday, April 30, on NBC. Per an agreement with DirecTV, the fourth season already aired on The 101 Network from October 2009 through this past February, with NBC re-airing the season coming next month. If you want to be surprised by what happens this season, beware of online spoilers from those who already saw the episodes on The 101!
A: Mark Pellegrino (pictured left; photo credit Eric Williams), 44, who has played Jacob on “Lost” since the end of the previous season, has been in a ton of movies, such as “The Big Lebowski,” “Mulholland Drive,” “Capote” and “National Treasure.” On the small screen, he is most known for playing the Devil on “Supernatural” and Paul Bennett on “Dexter.” I asked Mark when we chatted recently if it was intimidating for him to join such an established, phenomenon of a show so late in the series.
“Luckily I didn’t know it was such a huge phenomenon until I landed on the island and was told,” Pellegrino said. “When you audition, the character sides are not the character you are auditioning for, and the scenes are just made-up stuff to throw off all the people on the Internet who are so anxious to get the material. I had no idea what it meant until I got there and they told me I’m Jacob. And then it dawned on me what a big deal it was.”
Interview: Mark Pellegrino — Jesus or Lucifer?
Many know him as Jacob from Lost or Lucifer from Supernatural. I know him as a really nice guy who was a joy to interview. I caught up with Mark Pellegrino (photo left, credit: ABC) a few weeks ago to discuss being on such an iconic television show, life in Hawaii and his plans for the future. When you were cast as Jacob on Lost last year, had you been a fan of the show, or did you have to do some quick catching up?
I had to do some quick catching up, that’s for sure. I almost don’t own a TV. We have one here for watching movies and stuff, and my wife watches TV to relax, but I’m so busy I can’t usually watch unless I get cast in something and have to watch to do some research.
Because of the great secrecy, do you receive the entire script, or just the scenes you are in? How protective are they of that?
The scripts do come with a special tape on them – I don’t know what the tape means, it’s a kind of reflective tape – and it is delivered directly to the house. I do get the whole script for the episode, surprisingly enough, and I get it about a week in advance. And I’m surprised about that, because people are so hot after the material, you’d think they’d be even more cautious that somebody would steal it off the doorstep.
How is the cast to work with, and how do you like shooting in Hawaii?
Shooting in Hawaii is great. I don’t get to see the island too much unless I have some free time and I’ll bring my wife out there. Otherwise I am in my hotel room hunkered down, reading the script and working on that, and writing and catching up on movies and stuff. But it is really beautiful, and I’ve done a few of the touristy things.
The cast is just phenomenal – not only great actors, but they’re really good people. I’ve worked a lot with Jorge Garcia (giggles) and he’s a really funny guy, (giggles) and a really really good actor (giggles). I’m laughing at something, I don’t even know if I can say – just the way that we work with each other off-camera, he kind of laughs at me and has fun with me. And I’ve worked with Matt (Fox). He’s a really great guy, and so intense, as intense as his character onscreen. So is Nestor (Carbonell), who actually studied at the theater company that I teach at and studied there for a while. He’s a really great guy. It’s nice – it’s a nice group of people.
Luckily I didn’t know it was a huge phenomenon until I landed on the island and was told. There audition sides are not the character name, and the scenes are not the scenes you end up doing. It’s all made-up stuff to throw off all the bloggers and people on the Internet who are trying to get the material. Sounds crazy, but I had no idea what it meant until I got there.
That must be difficult for the casting team, because they have people auditioning for roles, but it’s not the material they’ll be doing, or even the character name.
You know, in a way I am glad they did it that way, because it’s such an iconic role, you don’t want to fall into traps. You could try to act the stature of the part, and it’s really so much more simple and down-to-earth. It’s a good thing to be Jesus the carpenter, as opposed to Jesus in the Gospel of John, the God-like figure. That’s hard to act – the carpenter’s better.
If you had Jacob’s God-like powers, how would you like to see the show end?
I hope it ends well, and I hope Jacob’s point of view about human nature is born out, that’s for sure, because I think it says something about us. I don’t know what that means, but I just hope it ends well, and that my point of view wins out. But I don’t know what that means in concrete fact; I don’t know what that means with respect to the characters.
Playing Jacob certainly is a change from playing your character on Supernatural, which happens to be Lucifer (photo left, credit: David Gray/The CW).It is fun. In fact I leave on Monday to do some more Supernatural stuff, and I’m looking forward to that because we’re in the middle of the apocalypse. But playing Lucifer is fun; he’s a fun bag of tricks.
How did you make your Lucifer different from other Lucifers in past movies and TV shows?
I guess it’s just to enjoy the different Lucifers I’ve seen in past films and know that this Lucifer is written very differently than the other ones. This Lucifer is written as a very down-to-Earth, honest person. I think I have justice on my side, and that’s a very strong place to come from. I don’t have to lie, pretend, fool anybody, charm anybody – I just tell the truth. That’s pretty unconventional. I can’t think of too many Lucifers who’ve had to deal with those circumstances. They are usually big, iconic, charming, interesting ... although Viggo Mortensen was kind of an interesting – he played Lucifer in Prophecy, didn’t he? He was an interesting, down-to-earth kind of devil, in a way.
You’ve been on a lot of top-notch television shows, like Burn Notice, Dexter, Grey’s Anatomy. What have been some of your favorite experiences and why?
I was coming out of the make-up trailer of Grey’s Anatomy, and Sandra Oh was like, “Oh my God!” and grabs me by the face, kisses me on the face and hugs me. She’s apparently a big Dexter fan. It was a totally shocking experience to have that happen. So that was a really nice, enjoyable experience.
Being on Dexter was funny too, because me and Michael C. Hall were rivals in the show for Julie Benz’s affection, and for the first episode or two, we didn’t really speak to each other. And I thought he didn’t like me, and he thought I didn’t like him. So we had this totally antagonistic type of relationship, and we never really dealt with it for the first couple of shows until one day by chance, we were at craft services eating something at the same time. And I forget who broke the ice, but one of us just started talking, and we realized that he thought I didn’t like him, I thought he didn’t like me, and we became friends. He’s a nice guy. And I hope he found out I’m nice too.
Is there a particular show you get recognized for more when fans approach you on the street?
Well lately it’s been Dexter, Lost and Supernatural, but I do get a lot of: “I think I know you from somewhere.” Like they think they met me at a party somewhere, but they really saw me maybe on Burn Notice or something. But I’ve been getting a lot of recognition for Lost now. I’ve been getting people walking up to me in the supermarket. Just the other day when they had the premiere, I was getting groceries for my family, and a girl asked, “Are you Jacob from Lost?” And I said, “Yes.” And she said, “We are having a dinner party for you tonight. What are you doing in Valencia?” And I told her I live here with my family, and she says: “Oh, OK, good. Well, all right. Bye!” It’s an interesting phenomenon, definitely.
You played lots of different and interesting characters in your career, but what would your dream role be?
A dream role would be Charlie in Flowers for Algernon, I’m kind of obsessed with it, but I think Will Smith is going to do it. But it’s been a project that I’ve loved for a long time. Actually there is a pilot that Frank Darabont is doing called Walking Dead that I am totally into, and I just went out for it. That would be kind of a dream role. I love the zombie/apocalypse thing and horror. This is from a series of graphic novels, and I like the main character a lot. It’s kind of like 28 Days Later. He wakes up in the hospital after being shot, and the apocalypse has happened and he has to find his way to safety. It’s kind of a cool scenario. And you can’t go wrong with Frank Darabont; I love his work.
Winslet and Mendes Split
London-based Schillings says the 34-year-old Oscar-winning actress separated from Mendes earlier this year.
The law firm says in a statement released Monday that the split was "entirely amicable and is by mutual agreement."
Winslet married the Oscar-winning film director of "American Beauty" in 2003. It was her second marriage.
Betty White to Host SNL
For months there has been speculation and rumors. As recent as a few days ago, there were very reliable rumors, but I didn't want to get my hopes up until we heard it from the Lorne's mouth, and now we have.NBC confirmed today that 88-year-old actress-extraordinaire Betty White will host Saturday Night Live's May 8th show. SNL executive producer Lorne Michaels says he can't think of a better way to spend Mother's Day weekend than with Betty White.
The announcement followed a campaign on Facebook urging the sketch show to make Betty a host. The group attracted nearly a half-million supporters (including Celebrity Extra!).
SGU Returns April 2
Stargate Universe returns with the second half of its first season to SyFy on April 2 at 9/8c. Check out the new trailer at sgu.mgm.com.
(Photo of actress Ming-Na by: Carole Segal © 2010 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc.)
Conan O'Brien Hits the Road
Conan O'Brien announced this morning, via his Twitter page, that he is taking his comedy on the road. For the past few weeks there have been rumors circulating that he would be doing just that, but there had been no confirmations until about an hour ago when he Tweeted: Hey Internet: I'm headed to your town on a half-assed comedy & music tour. Go to http://TeamCoco.com for tix. I repeat: It's half-assed.
The website crashed almost immediately because of the deluge of traffic, so he issued a follow-up Tweet letting fans know they can also get tickets from Ticketmaster. Check out the website and see if he'll be coming to an arena near you. Expect a night of "music, comedy, hugging and the occasional awkward silence."
Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom Returns April 4
One of television's longest running series is back for an eighth season! Animal Planet brings the awe and splendor of the natural world to viewers in the comfort of their own homes with the premiere of Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom on Sunday, April 4, at 7 PM (ET/PT).
The season premiere kicks off in our own backyard with the black bears of Northern Minnesota in BEARWALKER OF THE NORTHWOODS. We have always been told that to get between a mother bear and her cubs is to take your life in your hands, but Dr. Lynn Rogers illustrates that many of the perceptions people have of black bears are wrong as he gets incredibly close to these amazing creatures; from taking naps with them in the woods to being able to put radio collars on them without sedating them, Dr. Rogers is able to interact with them in unprecedented ways.
Little People, Big World Returns April 5
TLC’s hit series Little People, Big World continues its fifth season with 20 all-new episodes. From a family trip to Europe to the biggest pumpkin season ever, the Roloff family is back with new adventures starting with back-to-back premieres on Monday, April 5 at 8 and 8:30pm ET/PT. The spring season includes the series’ milestone 200th episode. The premiere episodes kick off with twins Zach and Jeremy, recently graduated from high school, taking off on their own for a European backpacking adventure. Soon, the rest of the Roloffs join for a full family vacation that includes visits to Italy and France.
Life continues when the family returns home, as Molly turns sweet sixteen and goes for her driver’s license, and the twins figure out what’s next post-graduation. Meanwhile, Zach and his all-star team of little people athletes competing at the World Dwarf Games in Northern Ireland (which will be the 200th episode) - but Matt and Amy butt heads over team management.
Amy also focuses on her non-profit foundation but gets in over her head organizing a benefit golf tournament, while and Matt conducts the first-ever "Fort-A-Thon" on Roloff Farms and gets ready for the farm’s biggest, best pumpkin season ever. Will a clash with county inspectors threaten to shut down Roloff Farms?
Corey Haim Dies at 38
(from the Associated Press)The Los Angeles coroner's office says "The Lost Boys" actor Corey Haim is dead at 38.
UPDATE: Corey's mother, Judy Haim, told Access Hollywood that she was informed by the coroner this morning that her son died of pulmonary congestion. She said that the autopsy determined that Corey's heart was enlarged and his lungs had filled with water.
Longtime friend and co-star, Corey Feldman, wrote on his blog: "This is a tragic loss of a wonderful, beautiful, tormented soul who will always be my brother, family and best friend. We must all take this as a lesson in how we treat the people we share this world with while they are still here to make a difference."
Haim, who gained attention for his roles in "Lucas" and "The Lost Boys," had flulike symptoms before he died and was getting over-the-counter and prescription medications, police Sgt. William Mann said.
Longtime friend and co-star, Corey Feldman, wrote on his blog: "This is a tragic loss of a wonderful, beautiful, tormented soul who will always be my brother, family and best friend. We must all take this as a lesson in how we treat the people we share this world with while they are still here to make a difference."
UPDATE: "As he got out of bed, he felt a little weak and went down to the floor on his knees," Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter said. His mother called paramedics.
An autopsy will determine Haim's cause of death. There was no evidence of foul play, police Sgt. Michael Kammert said.
Haim, who gained attention for his roles in "Lucas" and "The Lost Boys," had flulike symptoms before he died and was getting over-the-counter and prescription medications, police Sgt. William Mann said.
"He could have succumbed to whatever (illness) he had or it could have been drugs," Mann said. "He has had a drug problem in the past."
Haim was taken by ambulance to the hospital from an apartment in Los Angeles near Burbank.
UPDATE: A spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Coroner confirmed that Haim, who battled substance addiction for several years, was found unresponsive in an Oakwood apartment and pronounced dead at Providence St. Joseph’s Medical Center at 2:15 a.m. of an accidental drug overdose.
Coroner's Lt. Cheryl MacWillie said Wednesday that Haim died at 2:15 a.m. at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Burbank. She said an autopsy will determine the cause of death and there are no other details.
Canadian-born Haim became a teen heartthrob with the 1986 film "Lucas" and 1987's "The Lost Boys."
His first role was in the 1984 hit "Firstborn," in which he played a young child caught up in a family war. He then appeared in the 1985 television movie "A Time to Live."
In recent years, he appeared in the A&E reality TV show "The Two Coreys" with his friend Corey Feldman. It was canceled in 2008 after two seasons.
Lindsay Lohan Thinks She's Madonna
(from popeater.com)Well, this takes the cake in arrogance.
Lindsay Lohan is reportedly suing the financial company E-Trade, insisting that the company's new commercial about a boyfriend-stealing, "milkaholic" baby — who happens to be named Lindsay — was modeled after her. Lohan reportedly wants $100 million, The NY Post reports.
This is the part that really gets me: Lohan's lawyer, Stephanie Ovadia, told the newspaper that the actress has the same single-name recognition as Oprah or Madonna. "Many celebrities are known by one name only, and E-Trade is using that knowledge to profit," Ovadia said.
Lindsay has made one good movie in her life (Mean Girls) and is known primarily for her boozing and pill-popping. To even put her in a league with Oprah and Madonna?!? Oprah and Madonna are the ones who should be suing!
Go E-Trade! I am on your side!!
(Sorry for the brief foray into op-ed territory, but this news really irked me.)
Brooke Burke to Co-Host DWTS
(from people.com) Brooke Burke is set to co-host Dancing With the Stars alongside Tom Bergeron, it was announced Monday on Good Morning America.
Burke, who partnered with Derek Hough (pictured) to win on Dancing's seventh season, will replace Samantha Harris, who announced in January that she was leaving the show.
"She'll be able to talk to the couples backstage with the perspective of having been there herself," said Bergeron, who made the announcement solo Monday morning, adding that Burke was still on vacation in Africa with her family.
Winners: 82nd Academy Awards
Nominees and Winners (in bold) for the 82nd Academy AwardsActor in a Leading Role
* Jeff Bridges in “Crazy Heart”
* George Clooney in “Up in the Air”
* Colin Firth in “A Single Man”
* Morgan Freeman in “Invictus”
* Jeremy Renner in “The Hurt Locker”
Actor in a Supporting Role
* Matt Damon in “Invictus”
* Woody Harrelson in “The Messenger”
* Christopher Plummer in “The Last Station”
* Stanley Tucci in “The Lovely Bones”
* Christoph Waltz in “Inglourious Basterds”
Actress in a Leading Role
* Sandra Bullock in “The Blind Side”
* Helen Mirren in “The Last Station”
* Carey Mulligan in “An Education”
* Gabourey Sidibe in “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire”
* Meryl Streep in “Julie & Julia”
Actress in a Supporting Role
* Penélope Cruz in “Nine”
* Vera Farmiga in “Up in the Air”
* Maggie Gyllenhaal in “Crazy Heart”
* Anna Kendrick in “Up in the Air”
* Mo’Nique in “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire”
Animated Feature Film
* “Coraline” Henry Selick
* “Fantastic Mr. Fox” Wes Anderson
* “The Princess and the Frog” John Musker and Ron Clements
* “The Secret of Kells” Tomm Moore
* “Up” Pete Docter
Art Direction
* “Avatar” Art Direction: Rick Carter and Robert Stromberg; Set Decoration: Kim Sinclair
* “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus” Art Direction: Dave Warren and Anastasia Masaro; Set Decoration: Caroline Smith
* “Nine” Art Direction: John Myhre; Set Decoration: Gordon Sim
* “Sherlock Holmes” Art Direction: Sarah Greenwood; Set Decoration: Katie Spencer
* “The Young Victoria” Art Direction: Patrice Vermette; Set Decoration: Maggie Gray
Cinematography
* “Avatar” Mauro Fiore
* “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” Bruno Delbonnel
* “The Hurt Locker” Barry Ackroyd
* “Inglourious Basterds” Robert Richardson
* “The White Ribbon” Christian Berger
Costume Design
* “Bright Star” Janet Patterson
* “Coco before Chanel” Catherine Leterrier
* “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus” Monique Prudhomme
* “Nine” Colleen Atwood
* “The Young Victoria” Sandy Powell
Directing
* “Avatar” James Cameron
* “The Hurt Locker” Kathryn Bigelow (pictured)
* “Inglourious Basterds” Quentin Tarantino
* “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire” Lee Daniels
* “Up in the Air” Jason Reitman
Best Picture
* “Avatar” James Cameron and Jon Landau, Producers
* “The Blind Side” Gil Netter, Andrew A. Kosove and Broderick Johnson, Producers
* “District 9” Peter Jackson and Carolynne Cunningham, Producers
* “An Education” Finola Dwyer and Amanda Posey, Producers
* “The Hurt Locker” Kathryn Bigelow, Mark Boal, Nicolas Chartier and Greg Shapiro, Producers
* “Inglourious Basterds” Lawrence Bender, Producer
* “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire” Lee Daniels, Sarah Siegel-Magness and Gary Magness, Producers
* “A Serious Man” Joel Coen and Ethan Coen, Producers
* “Up” Jonas Rivera, Producer
* “Up in the Air” Daniel Dubiecki, Ivan Reitman and Jason Reitman, Producers
Documentary (Feature)
* “Burma VJ” Anders Østergaard and Lise Lense-Møller
* “The Cove” Louie Psihoyos and Fisher Stevens
* “Food, Inc.” Robert Kenner and Elise Pearlstein
* “The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers” Judith Ehrlich and Rick Goldsmith
* “Which Way Home” Rebecca Cammisa
Documentary (Short Subject)
* “China’s Unnatural Disaster: The Tears of Sichuan Province” Jon Alpert and Matthew O’Neill
* “The Last Campaign of Governor Booth Gardner” Daniel Junge and Henry Ansbacher
* “The Last Truck: Closing of a GM Plant” Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert
* “Music by Prudence” Roger Ross Williams and Elinor Burkett
* “Rabbit à la Berlin” Bartek Konopka and Anna Wydra
Film Editing
* “Avatar” Stephen Rivkin, John Refoua and James Cameron
* “District 9” Julian Clarke
* “The Hurt Locker” Bob Murawski and Chris Innis
* “Inglourious Basterds” Sally Menke
* “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire” Joe Klotz
Foreign Language Film
* “Ajami” Israel
* “The Milk of Sorrow (La Teta Asustada)” Peru
* “A Prophet (Un Prophète)” France
* “The Secret in Their Eyes (El Secreto de Sus Ojos)” Argentina
* “The White Ribbon (Das Weisse Band)” Germany
Makeup
* “Il Divo” Aldo Signoretti and Vittorio Sodano
* “Star Trek” Barney Burman, Mindy Hall and Joel Harlow
* “The Young Victoria” Jon Henry Gordon and Jenny Shircore
Music (Original Score)
* “Avatar” James Horner
* “Fantastic Mr. Fox” Alexandre Desplat
* “The Hurt Locker” Marco Beltrami and Buck Sanders
* “Sherlock Holmes” Hans Zimmer
* “Up” Michael Giacchino
Music (Original Song)
* “Almost There” from “The Princess and the Frog” Music and Lyric by Randy Newman
* “Down in New Orleans” from “The Princess and the Frog” Music and Lyric by Randy Newman
* “Loin de Paname” from “Paris 36” Music by Reinhardt Wagner Lyric by Frank Thomas
* “Take It All” from “Nine” Music and Lyric by Maury Yeston
* “The Weary Kind (Theme from Crazy Heart)” from “Crazy Heart” Music and Lyric by Ryan Bingham and T Bone Burnett
Short Film (Animated)
* “French Roast” Fabrice O. Joubert
* “Granny O’Grimm’s Sleeping Beauty” Nicky Phelan and Darragh O’Connell
* “The Lady and the Reaper (La Dama y la Muerte)” Javier Recio Gracia
* “Logorama” Nicolas Schmerkin
* “A Matter of Loaf and Death” Nick Park
Short Film (Live Action)
* “The Door” Juanita Wilson and James Flynn
* “Instead of Abracadabra” Patrik Eklund and Mathias Fjellström
* “Kavi” Gregg Helvey
* “Miracle Fish” Luke Doolan and Drew Bailey
* “The New Tenants” Joachim Back and Tivi Magnusson
Sound Editing
* “Avatar” Christopher Boyes and Gwendolyn Yates Whittle
* “The Hurt Locker” Paul N.J. Ottosson
* “Inglourious Basterds” Wylie Stateman
* “Star Trek” Mark Stoeckinger and Alan Rankin
* “Up” Michael Silvers and Tom Myers
Sound Mixing
* “Avatar” Christopher Boyes, Gary Summers, Andy Nelson and Tony Johnson
* “The Hurt Locker” Paul N.J. Ottosson and Ray Beckett
* “Inglourious Basterds” Michael Minkler, Tony Lamberti and Mark Ulano
* “Star Trek” Anna Behlmer, Andy Nelson and Peter J. Devlin
* “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” Greg P. Russell, Gary Summers and Geoffrey Patterson
Visual Effects
* “Avatar” Joe Letteri, Stephen Rosenbaum, Richard Baneham and Andrew R. Jones
* “District 9” Dan Kaufman, Peter Muyzers, Robert Habros and Matt Aitken
* “Star Trek” Roger Guyett, Russell Earl, Paul Kavanagh and Burt Dalton
Writing (Adapted Screenplay)
* “District 9” Written by Neill Blomkamp and Terri Tatchell
* “An Education” Screenplay by Nick Hornby
* “In the Loop” Screenplay by Jesse Armstrong, Simon Blackwell, Armando Iannucci, Tony Roche
* “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire” Screenplay by Geoffrey Fletcher
* “Up in the Air” Screenplay by Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner
Writing (Original Screenplay)
* “The Hurt Locker” Written by Mark Boal
* “Inglourious Basterds” Written by Quentin Tarantino
* “The Messenger” Written by Alessandro Camon & Oren Moverman
* “A Serious Man” Written by Joel Coen & Ethan Coen
* “Up” Screenplay by Bob Peterson, Pete Docter, Story by Pete Docter, Bob Peterson, Tom McCarthy
Breakout Hit Drop Dead Dive Returns for Season 2
The highly anticipated second season of Lifetime Television’s hit series, Drop Dead Diva, will premiere Sunday, June 6, 2010, at 9pm ET/PT. Praised by critics as one of 2009’s top new series, the one-hour, comedic drama tells the story of a shallow wannabe model who dies in a sudden accident only to find her soul resurfacing in the body of a brilliant, plus-size and recently deceased attorney, Jane. Drop Dead Diva features breakout star Brooke Elliott (Wicked, Taboo), Margaret Cho (Ghost Whisperer, Notorious C.H.O.), Jackson Hurst (The Tree of Life), Kate Levering (Cashmere Mafia), April Bowlby (Two and a Half Men), Josh Stamberg (Lie to Me) and Ben Feldman (The Perfect Man). The second season of Drop Dead Diva will feature 13 new episodes.
Drop Dead Diva’s season two opener will feature entertainer Paula Abdul (American Idol) reprising her role as “Judge Paula Abdul,” a figment of Jane’s subconscious. Devon Gummersall (My So-Called Life) and David Denman (The Office) return as guest stars this season. The premiere episode will also feature a musical dream sequence, choreographed by So You Think You Can Dance’s Keith “Tyce” Diorio.
Season one of Drop Dead Diva will be encored beginning April 11, behind original episodes of Army Wives with back-to-back episodes at 11pm ET/PT and 12am ET/PT through May 23. Additionally, on Sunday, May 30, Lifetime will air an all-day marathon of the first season of Drop Dead Diva from 10am to 11pm ET/PT.
Interview: Taylor Hicks — A Renaissance Man
Taylor Hicks: It was really fate. I went to Las Vegas on a whim and my brother told me Idol tryouts were there. So about four hour later I was there auditioning. It wasn’t something that I said I needed to go do; it was something that just happened. Luckily, by the grace of God, I went in and won.
CE: How awesome was it for you when Simon had to admit he was wrong about his prediction that you’d never make it to the final round?
TH: You have to let your actions speak louder than your words, so to speak, that’s the key. And I just did that. And when you get toward the end of the competition, it’s not really about the judges. It’s about the fan base and about who does well that night.
CE: How did the term “Soul Patrol” start in referring to your fan base?
TH: It was an organic thing, really. They are just a great fan base. I am very happy and blessed to have a fan base that is so supportive of me.
CE: Aside from winning American Idol, you really know you’ve made it when a cast member on Saturday Night Live imitates you. How did you feel about Jason Sudeikis’ impersonation of you a few years back?
TH: I thought it was spot-on. I wish he had done more — it was hilarious. It’s pretty flattering when that happens. With that being said, I am very fortunate to have these opportunities come my way.
CE: Now you are playing Teen Angel in Grease, which is currently touring in the U.S. How has the experience been so far? (Go to taylorhicks.ning.com/events/event/listUpcoming for tour info.)
TH: It’s been great. It’s allowed me to get into acting and understand role-playing. It’s just a great starting point for me in the acting field.
CE: How’s life on the road?
TH: I love the road. It’s nice to be able to be in one spot for an extended amount of time, as opposed to doing music shows where they are just one-night runs.
CE: Looks like you are up in D.C. now (at the time of the interview). How’s that blizzard treating ya?
TH: I don’t mind there being snow, because I never saw a lot of it before. It’s good to experience all kinds of different weather, and all different parts of the country too.
CE: Anything can happen during a live show — do you have any funny stories or audience encounters?
TH: My fly has been down during “Beauty School Dropout,” which is pretty hilarious. That’s a definite wardrobe malfunction.
CE: What can fans who are contemplating coming to see Grease expect? Why should they come out?
TH: For those who’ve seen the movie and not the play, it’s the best of both worlds. There’s “Hopelessly Devoted” and “Greased Lightning,” and they integrate some of the movie into the Broadway show, so it’s really the best of both worlds. It’s a lot like the movie.
TH: Yes, it’s my first concert DVD. I am just really pleased about it.
CE: Why did you decide now is the time to make a concert DVD?
TH: It shows me in a live setting, which is what I am good at. It’s where I thrive — that’s a good light for me to be in. I am really excited about it. I am really excited about the fact that people can see a really great live show in that setting.
CE: Who would you like to work with?
TH: Paul Simon would be a great collaboration for me. I really like his music. I would also like to a funk/R&B album with Lady Gaga. That’d be cool.
(Don't forget to enter Celebrity Extra's Whomp at the Warfield DVD contest. Details are here.)
Interview: JoBeth Williams Is "Uncorked"
As an actress with an already-busy schedule, what made JoBeth want to play the role of winery matriarch Sophia Browning? “It was really refreshing to read a script that I thought was really sweet, without being saccharin sweet. I loved the character. I loved the idea of this woman, as a sort of born-again hippie. She and her husband had been hippies in the old days, and they owned this vineyard. And I love Elliott (who plays her husband Paul) — Elliott happens to be a friend of mine — so the idea of us being a couple was fun.”
JoBeth was also reunited with Julie Benz, who plays Johnny. JoBeth tells me: “I’ve worked with Julie a couple of times. The first time was when I did a series with John Larroquette called ‘Payne’ some years ago for CBS, and Julie played our maid. And then I did four episodes of ‘Dexter,’ and I played her mom. So it was fun reuniting again. I adore her; she is a dear, terrific girl.”
While many things drew JoBeth to this film, the scenery was a big factor: “We filmed in the Santa Ynez in the Solvang area, which is a gorgeous area north of L.A., and shot in this wonderful vineyard. Everything seemed right about it, and it made me want to do it.”
Working with Elliott Gould was a big draw as well. “Elliott is just wonderful. He is very funny and has a very dry sense of humor. He just really has a great heart. He has a wonderful outlook on life; he’s very laid-back. He has a lot of wisdom. I love being around him and talking with him and spending time with him.”JoBeth could see a bit of herself in Sophia, telling me: “I could certainly relate to wanting the best for my child and to see him be happy. I’ve seen my own kids go through their own ups and downs, and as a mother, you want to make it better. For Sophia, I think that was her driving force, to help her son get over the loss of his wife.
“And I think I have a certain amount of the old hippie in me. I went to college in the late ’60s/early ’70s. We were against the war, and were of the ‘make love, not war’ school of thought. I like that this woman made the choice to live not in a big urban situation. She just felt very earthy to me. That’s a part of me that I hope I have. I was raised in cities, but I was raised in Texas, so there’s a certain amount of connection to the earth. I really liked her Earth Mother quality.”
While a big message of the movie is finding a balance between your work life and your personal life, JoBeth hopes audiences take away this message: “I hope people take away a really positive feeling that family can ground you. I think a lot of the time, we don’t give our family connections the kind of credit they deserve, like how important they are to us and how much they mean to us. I think family makes all the difference.”
Yet ANOTHER Reason to Watch Parks & Recreation
(from eonline.com)While NBC isn't commenting yet, Parks & Recreation boss Mike Schur just confirmed to Matt Mitovitch from Fancast that Rob Lowe is coming on the NBC show, saying, "It's a perfect fit."
No word yet on Rob's role, as it is still being finalized, but he will come on board in the second-to-last episode of the season and is slated for "a number of episodes stretching into season three."
After seeing he comedic chops in movies like Wayne's World, Thank You For Smoking and The Invention of Lying, I would agree with Mike Schur: Rob IS a perfect fit.
Teenaged me is high-pitched screaming right now.
Obama to Appear on America's Most Wanted
The president will discuss the show's impact in its 22 years as well as his administration's anti-crime initiatives, including those involving white-collar crime, Fox said Wednesday.
New John Hughes Movie to Be Produced?
One of John Hughes' lost movies is reportedly set for a posthumous release.Bosses at Paramount Pictures have purchased the rights to Hughes' unfilmed script, Grisby's Go Broke (although the editor in me wonders if it shouldn't be Grisbys, not Grisby's), about a dysfunctional Chicago family who loses all their money when the economy slumps.
Hughes quit Hollywood in 1994, but is said to have left behind boxes of notebooks and computer files containing film ideas and screenplays after his death last year.
Now The Breakfast Club filmmaker's lost script is set to go into production posthumously, with movie chiefs looking for a writer/director to update the screenplay and begin filming, according to Slashfilm.com.
(from imdb.com)
Julianne Moore Returns to As the World Turns
(from CBS Soaps In Depth) Big-screen superstar Julianne Moore is returning to As the World Turns and the role of Frannie Hughes — if only for an episode — this spring. CBS is at last confirming the hottest rumor of the last few weeks — that Moore will make a special return to the soap that helped launch her career! The Oscar-nominated star played the dual roles of half sisters Frannie and Sabrina Hughes from 1985-’88 and won the Outstanding Ingenue Daytime Emmy in 1988, the year she exited the soap. While details regarding her stint are being closely guarded, it's likely Frannie's arrival will coincide with Bob and Kim's anniversary.
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