Showing posts with label HBO. Show all posts
Showing posts with label HBO. Show all posts
Q and A: Week of Feb. 2
A: Season one of this wonderful FX drama/suspense series — starring Billy Bob Thornton, Colin Hanks, Allison Tolman and Martin Freeman — is now available on DVD. And Hulu recently announced that it has acquired the streaming rights for the series. No exact date has been announced, only that we should be on the lookout for it ahead of the series’ season two premiere this fall on FX.
Q: Can you tell me when “Game of Thrones” will be back for a new season? — Bobby T., via email
A: The phenomenal drama/historical-fantasy series will be back for its fifth season on April 12 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. HBO also revealed that “Silicon Valley” would be begin its second season at 10 p.m., following the “GoT” premiere, and season four of “Veep” will follow that at 10:30 p.m. All three series will have 10-episode seasons.
In the meantime, you can relive some of season four on the big screen in IMAX format before that. In limited release (about 150 IMAX theaters), the last two episodes of season four’s “Game of Thrones” will be shown the way lots of fans think it should be aired all the time: in movie theaters. Those who do attend these limited showings will also be treated to an exclusive trailer for season five. Check your local listings to see if it is on the big screen in your town. According to “Entertainment Weekly,” there have also been reports of a season-five preview special to air on HBO, perhaps as soon as February. Fingers crossed for that too!
Q: My husband recently introduced me to the “Evil Dead” movies. He heard they are making it into a TV series. Is that true? — Nancy P. in Indiana
A: Your husband heard correctly. Starz is bringing the series to the small screen via an original series called “Ash vs. Evil Dead,” which takes place after the action of the movie series. The series’ star and the director of “Evil Dead” — Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi, respectively — are set to return to the production, which will consist of 10 half-hour episodes. The story begins three decades later, where Ash (Campbell) is forced to face his demons and fight the Evil Dead yet again when a Deadite plague threatens to destroy all mankind.
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| Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt in Jurassic World |
Q: I know the project is all hush-hush, but is there anything you can tell me about “Jurassic World”? — George F., Montgomery, Ala.
A: Recently I spoke with James DuMont, who just finished another wonderfully disturbing season of “American Horror Story,” and who also plays a role in the sure-to-be summer blockbuster, which opens June 12. However, things are so hush-hush that he can’t even tell me what role he plays. This is what he could tell me: “I can’t tell you anything about story, plot, my character. I’ve signed all these very heavy-duty nondisclosure agreements up and down the street. But the good news to tell you is that it’s amazing. The cast is amazing. There are so many cool things about this movie. They got it right. Steven Spielberg’s on board. The director, Colin Trevorrow, is amazing. I think it’s going to be a really, really good movie. I’m just excited to be a part of a big movie like this.” Stop by tomorrow to read my entire interview with James.
Q: All last year I read rumors about a “Wet Hot American Summer” sequel, even on your Twitter feed, but I’ve seen neither hide nor hair of it anywhere. Is this really going to happen? — Megan M., via Facebook
A: I have good news for you, and for lovers of this outrageous and brilliant comedy everywhere. There will indeed be a sequel, but not in feature-film form. Netflix, which is quickly becoming my favorite outlet for original programming, has picked it up for an eight-episode limited series. And pretty much all of the film’s original stars will return: Elizabeth Banks, H. Jon Benjamin, Michael Ian Black, Bradley Cooper, Judah Friedlander, Janeane Garofalo, Nina Hellman, Ken Marino, Zak Orth, David Hyde Pierce, Joe LoTruglio, Christopher Meloni, A.D. Miles, Marguerite Moreau, Amy Poehler, Paul Rudd, Marisa Ryan, Molly Shannon, Michael Showalter and Kevin Sussman. To say that I am excited about this doesn’t nearly cover the emotions I am feeling about this series. I’m thinking you’re feeling the same way right about now.
Q: I loved your interview with CCH Pounder about “NCIS: New Orleans” a few months back, and I love the show. Will it be back for another season? — Janice T., via email
A: “NCIS: New Orleans,” which is the No. 1 new TV series on broadcast television, has indeed received a second season pickup from CBS. “Madam Secretary,” which is the No. 2 most watched new series, and “Scorpion,” which is No. 3, have both also received a second season.
Q and A: Week of Oct. 1
A: As we saw in the season-two finale, Gillian Anderson’s character, Dr. Bedelia du Maurier, was more than just Hannibal Lector’s psychologist — she’s his getaway buddy (possibly lover?). Executive producer Bryan Fuller confirmed that Gillian has been bumped up from a recurring character to series regular. He also teased that when the show returns in 2015, it will be one year after Hannibal and Bedelia jetted off to Europe (after the bloodbath that he caused at his house), and that the show will feel like “a pilot for a new series starring Mads Mikkelsen and Gillian Anderson.”
Bryan Fuller told TVLine.com: “The cast and crew of ‘Hannibal’ are positively giddy to be welcoming Gillian to season three as a series regular. A striking presence on stage and screen, she brings wit, grace and intelligence to every role she embodies. Screenwriting is so much easier when you’re inspired by a great actor, and Gillian has filled the ‘Hannibal’ writers room with wonderful inspiration. I can’t wait for audiences to see her make a bigger meal out of ‘the Cannibal’ than ever before.”
Q: “Banshee” is my all-time favorite TV series that airs on Cinemax. I’ve watched seasons one and two several times, and have bought the DVDs for both seasons. Can you please tell me when season three will return? — John F., Palm Springs, Calif.
A: “Banshee” will return for a new season in early 2015. The series — which is executive-produced by one of my favorite authors, Jonathan Tropper, and one of my favorite screenwriters, Alan Ball — centers on Lucas Hood, an ex-con and master thief who tracks down Carrie Hopewell, his former lover and partner in crime, who is now the wife of the Banshee, Pa., prosecutor. Lucas becomes Banshee’s sheriff and continues his criminal activities, even though he’s being hunted by the criminals he betrayed years earlier.
A bit of a spoiler for you: Jonathan Tropper revealed that while Proctor still will be an important nemesis for Lucas, Chayton will be back in a big way. Also, Dennis O’Hare, whom I loved on “True Blood,” will guest-star on one episode.
Q: Will “Cougar Town” be back for another season? — Carly T., via email
A: The Cul-de-Sac Crew will return to TBS for its sixth and final season in early 2015. SPOILER ALERT: Brian Van Holt, who plays the hilariously dim-witted Bobby Cobb, will be leaving the series early, with his final appearance in the season-six opener.
Q: I was happy to read in your column that “Beauty and the Beast” would be returning, but I haven’t seen it on the CW’s fall schedule. — Tina R., via email
A: The cop drama/romance/fantasy series will return for a third season as a midseason show, which means sometime in early to spring 2015.
A: It has indeed been made into a movie, now retitled “The Wedding Planner Mystery,” and it will premiere on the Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Channel on Sunday, Oct. 19, at 9/8c. The show stars Erica Durance (“Smallville”), Brandon Beemer (“Days of Our Lives”) and Andrew Walker (“When Calls the Heart”). I spoke with Brandon recently, and he told me about working on the film and with Hallmark and with the lovely and talented Erica Durance.
“I’ve always heard that Hallmark was a great, great network to work for. They run a tight ship. They know exactly what they want, and they know exactly what they are doing. I read the script, and I thought it was pretty fun, and it was good. I also loved the fact that I’d be working in Vancouver. I’ve never been to Vancouver. I was very grateful. So I went to Vancouver and had one of the best times shooting a project that I’ve probably ever had. The people were so great. And Vancouver was so awesome.”
Q: I just got caught up on season one of HBO’s “True Detective,” and I wondered if you could give me any scoop about season two. — Kyle L., via email
A: I can tell you that Colin Farrell and Vince Vaughn have signed on to star in next season’s hit HBO series, which is rumored to be about the “bloody murder of a corrupt city businessman found dead the night before a major transportation deal.” It will involve three police officers from different cities working together. There is no casting news yet on who will play the third police officer, who is said to be a female character.
Q: Can you give me any info about the latest 007 movie? Is it still happening? — Paul T., via email
A: The 24th James Bond film is indeed happening, Paul, with actors Daniel Craig, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris returning, along with director Sam Mendes. They start shooting in December, with an anticipated fall 2015 release date. Sam confirmed that the latest film with be the second of a two-part project, meaning it will be a continuation of “Skyfall.”
READERS: I have some exciting book-to-series news for you. Hulu announced that it has ordered a nine-hour series adaptation of Stephen King’s 2011 bestseller “11/22/63,” a thriller in which high-school English teacher Jake Epping travels back in time to prevent the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The series is being developed by J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions. Of this latest project, Stephen King said: “If I ever wrote a book that cries out for long-form, event-TV programming, ’11/22/63’ is it. I’m excited that it’s going to happen, and am looking forward to working with J.J. Abrams and the whole Bad Robot team.”
Interview: Amelia Rose Blaire on the "Epic" Final Season of True Blood
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| Amelia Rose Blaire, photo by Bobby Quillard |
Celebrity Extra: First off, can you give me a little background on yourself? How did you get your start in acting?
Amelia Rose Blaire: My younger sister was a huge catalyst in that. She started taking acting classes, and she was always much more outgoing, more social and braver than I was. I was a very shy kid. One day I decided to tag along with her and got bit by the bug. I knew that if I was going to be an actor, I wanted to be the best possible actor I could be. So I started studying at The Sanford Meisner Center in North Hollywood and did their two-year program. It was immersive and intensive, and I learned a lot about myself. Then I started studying with the actress Lindsay Crouse, who is a wonderful teacher of mine to this day. She directed me toward the Atlantic Theatre Company Conservatory in New York City, where I went after I graduated high school.
CE: Your first big part was on “90210”; tell me about that experience.
ARB: That was the first time I’ve ever had a recurring role on any show. That was very exciting. It was one of my earlier roles, so I just felt like I had my jaw open the entire time because I was experiencing something so different. But it was a lot of fun. It was kind of like being in high school, because I was playing a high-school character, and she was a little weird. She was very strangely possessive and kind of quirky and entitled. It was fun to bring out those different characteristics, because that’s not something I usually play with. Getting to play such a strange character who was really different from me was very special.
CE: Your next big role is your current role, as Willa Burrell in the phenomenally popular “True Blood.” Tell me about your audition and how you got the part.
ARB: I had been in that casting office many times before, but that was the first time I had auditioned for “True Blood.” But I have been a fan of the show since season one, so when I got the audition, I knew where I would be and how to fit into the show. The day I got the audition, my sister was in town, and her cat got hit by a car. I went over to my mom’s house, which is where the cat was, and I went in the backyard, and my sister was holding him. We didn’t know if he was alive or dead. He wasn’t moving. And she was wailing at the top of her lungs, just crying: “Is he gone? Is he dead? Is he dead?” And I had never seen my sister like that. It was a very grounding and sobering and sad moment. There was nothing I could do for her. And the next day, I had to go in to audition for “True Blood.” In the audition, the character was begging not to die, not to be turned into a vampire, which she kind of thought was the same thing as dying. In any other circumstance, I would have made it about not wanting to die, but because of witnessing the whole experience with my sister the day before, I made it about wanting to live. And at the time, it was this gift of getting to see a different perspective. Instead of making it about dying, it was about living. So, for me that was a huge shift.
After I left the audition, I felt out of my body, which is something that is really special when you are able to do that, especially in an audition room, which can be very difficult to let go. But because of that situation, I was able to do it. I got a call later that day that they wanted to see me again. And I went in one more time and kind of kissed it goodbye, assumed it was gone. And then a couple of days later I found out I had booked it, which was unreal.
CE: Is it as much fun to work on “True Blood” as I would imagine it to be?
ARB: It’s a total blast! I mean, where else in life do you get to play with fangs and special effects and blood? You get to live in this whole other world, where the realities of this world don’t exist or can be pushed. It’s so much fun. And everybody is so sweet and so welcoming and warm, and they’re down to play and down to get dirty. It’s really a special set.
CE: This is your second year on the show, but I know most of the cast have been there since day one. That set must be like a well-oiled machine, where everyone really knows his stuff — actors, writers, directors and crew.
ARB: They really do. They know their characters very well, and it’s really cool to see where they take everybody, because a lot of the time, you don’t even see it coming, and then all of a sudden you’re like: “Oh my gosh, yes! That makes total sense! I love it.”
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| Eric (Alexander Skarsgard) and Willa |
ARB: Oh, yes. He’s very funny. He’s very sweet and very goofy. He and Kristin (Bauer van Straten, who plays Pam) are such a team; they’re so much fun to work with. He’s very tall and very nice.
CE: One of my favorite scenes of yours was after Willa was turned, and she came home to confront her father, Gov. Burrell (played by Arliss Howard). Tell me about filming that.
ARB: When I first went into that scene, I was expecting that he would be completely appalled by me and would be terrified. But when we started filming, all he wanted to do was hug me. It was such an incredible learning experience as an actor, because you go in with all of the expectations of how you think the scene is going play out, and then your partner brings something completely different, and you just have to drop everything and just be there with them. He gave me something completely different from what I was expecting, and I think also different from what Willa was expecting. It was a wonderful moment.
CE: What can you tell me about this final season of “True Blood”?
ARB: I think the fans are going to be really happy. The writers and everyone are doing a wonderful job. Everyone wants to make this the best ending that they can possibly make. Everyone is putting in 110 percent — it is going to be epic.
CE: Are you and the rest of the cast starting to feel the end approaching? What is the mood like on the set?
ARB: As the end gets closer, it’s going to affect everyone, because most of the cast and crew have been here since season one. They’ve been working together for seven years, which is an incredible amount of time in this industry. Sadness hasn’t quite taken over the set just yet, but ask me again on my final day of filming!
Q and A: Week of Sept. 9
If you read my review of “Eleanor and Park,” then you know that I love the book, and why. I spoke with Rainbow about her feelings while writing it, and she told me: “With this book, I do remember saying that I wanted people to feel in their stomach that feeling of being in love for the first time. When you’re at that age where even if you’re not actually in love, you feel those feelings so deeply. I honestly think you have the capacity to feel love and infatuation and all of those feelings to a much greater capacity when you’re that age — that intense first love, like every cell in your body is part of it.”
And if you want to explore more of Rainbow’s writings, her third book, “Fangirl,” was just released yesterday (check back here soon for my review, as well as my entire interview with Rainbow). And while I don’t like to play favorites, I think I might like “Fangirl” even more than “Eleanor and Park.”
Q: I think I’ve read this question in your column before, but I can’t remember your answer. Will “China Beach” ever be released on DVD? I loved that series, and I wish I could watch it again. — Beverly W., via e-mail
A: I’ve gotten scores of letters asking that same question, and I finally have a definitive answer for you: On Oct. 1, fans can finally own the critically acclaimed, Dana Delany-starring hit series. For the show’s 25th anniversary, the complete series will be available in a 21-disc collector’s set in stores and online. You can also buy them one season at a time, if you prefer, but the collector’s set is way cool.
Q: With Halloween approaching, it got me to wondering if Catherine Bell will be in another “Good Witch” movie on the Hallmark Channel? Those are my favorite. — Betty S., Tulsa, Okla.
A: Catherine and company will return to the Hallmark Channel on Oct. 26 with “The Good Witch’s Destiny.” In this sixth installment of the series, all Cassie Nightingale (Catherine) wants for her birthday is for her family and friends to be together. As her special day approaches, Lori discovers signs of a curse looming over Cassie. Check back in October for my exclusive interview with Catherine where I'll get all the details!
Q: You mentioned a show set in the 1940s about the mafia that was supposed to air on TNT called “Lost Angels,” but I can’t find mention of it anywhere. Can you help? — Douglas B. in Ohio
A: The latest TNT drama has been renamed “Mob City” and is set to premiere Dec. 4. The show centers on the epic battle between a determined police chief and a dangerous mobster that inflames 1940s Los Angeles, and stars Jon Bernthal, Neal McDonough and Ed Burns.
Q: Can you tell me what to look forward to in the next season of “The Mindy Project”? Will she still be with Casey? — Deanna W., via e-mail
A: Well, it looks as if Mindy and Casey might be kaput after returning from their yearlong good-will trip to Haiti. “Justified” star Timothy Olyphant has signed on to guest star as a love interest of Mindy. Viewers will note that this isn’t Timothy’s first foray into sitcoms — he guest-starred on two episodes of “The Office” back in 2010.
Head over to Hulu to get a sneak peek at the entire first episode of the season, which returns to Fox on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 9:30/8:30c.
Q: You mentioned a while back that “Eastbound and Down” had been resurrected for a fourth season. Can you tell me when it’ll premiere? — Donnie R., via e-mail
A: Danny McBride and his glorious mullet will be back for eight new raucous episodes beginning Sept. 29 on HBO for its “epic final season.” Lindsay Lohan is set to make a cameo (as who, I won’t say, so as not to spoil it for you).
Q and A: Week of July 29
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| Jamie Gray Hyder |
A: HBO just announced that the vampire/werewolf/shapeshifter/fairy/witch drama will be back for a seventh season, which will premiere summer 2014. I recently spoke with a member of the Shreveport wolf pack — Jamie Gray Hyder, who plays Alcide’s other girlfriend, Danielle — and she too is excited about what the rest of the season has to offer.
“There are some pretty big things that are going to go on that I don’t even know that much about,” Jamie told me. “If it’s a scene I’m not in, I don’t know what happens; I’m watching along with everyone else. But tensions are going to be heightened, and the stakes are going to continue to be raised. We’ve got the vampires versus the government, and now we have this ‘Billith’ creature, and the potential for things to completely implode is very real.
“With the vampires being attacked, we don’t know who’s going to be next … who’s going to be the next target. We’re scrambling just to keep our pack as tight as possible, and look out for our people. I think all of the supes are sort of banding together. It’s very important for all of our survival.”
There are a handful of episodes left of season six of “True Blood,” which airs Sunday nights at 9 ET/PT. And as we discovered last week, I’m sure we’ll all be surprised by who survives to see a seventh season — and who does not. And check back tomorrow for my full interview with this lovely and talented actress, where she also tells me all about starring in the new PS4 videogame "Killzone: Shadow Fall."
Q: With Joy Behar leaving “The View,” who will they get to replace her? — Tina F., Phoenix, Ariz.
A: Barbara Walters, who is the only original panelist left on the show and who plans to retire in 2014, announced that Jenny McCarthy will take over Joy’s empty chair when the show begins its 17th season on Sept. 9. Of Jenny’s hiring, Barbara said: “Jenny brings us intelligence as well as warmth and humor. She can be serious and outrageous. She has connected with our audience and offers a fresh point of view. Jenny will be a great addition to the show.” Sherri Shepherd and Whoopi Goldberg also are expected to return.
Q: Can you tell me what Mira Sorvino has been up to lately? She is one of my favorite actresses. — Heidi R., via e-mail
A: The USA Network just revealed that the Oscar winner has signed on to a multi-episode arc of “Psych,” beginning with the seventh episode of the eighth season (which is rumored to be the show’s final season). She will play the Santa Barbara PD’s newest head detective, Betsy Brannigan, who is being described by USA as “incredibly sweet, adorably reserved and yet certified badass.”
Q and A: Week of April 2
Q: I was a little apprehensive at first about how “Two and a Half Men” would be with Charlie Sheen gone, but I have to say it is still must-watch TV for me. I especially like the recurring character of Lyndsey, who plays Alan’s sometimes girlfriend. Will they stay together? — Kelly T., via e-mailA: If Courtney Thorne-Smith has any say, they will stay together, but not for any big romantic reasons. As Courtney told me: “I love their relationship so much because of their honesty. They are two people who looked at each other and said, ’Seriously, we’re just not going to do any better.’ They’re settling; there’s none of the fantasy. It works for them. I think they are really authentic with each other, and it just makes me laugh so hard.”
Go here to read my entire interview with Courtney, where she talks about the joy of watching Jon Cryer “do his magic,” the transition from Charlie Sheen to Ashton Kutcher, and Lyndsey and Alan’s future.
Q: I am wondering what has happened to “CSI: New York,” which aired at 9 p.m. on Friday nights. Also wondering when/if “Covert Affairs” will back on the USA network for its next season? I really like all the things Annie gets into on this program. — Mary Lee C., Port Charlotte, Fla.
A: As you might have already noticed, “CSI: NY” has returned to its Friday night home (since March 30) on CBS, with five more first-run episodes left to broadcast of its eighth season. Also, the USA network has renewed “Covert Affairs” for a 16-episode third season, which is scheduled to air this summer. While an exact premiere date has not been released, I can tell you that cast and crew are back at work on the new season. Christopher Gorham, who plays Auggie, tweeted to his fans that he’s read two episodes so far of the third season, and that we need to “Get ready!”
Q: Is “Steel Magnolias” being remade? — Charlene F., via e-mail
A: Lifetime Television has snagged Queen Latifah to star in and executive produce the television adaptation of “Steel Magnolias.” While Latifah takes on the role of M’Lynn, Alfre Woodard joins her as Ouiser, with Phylicia Rashad as Clairee, Jill Scott as Truvy, Adepero Oduye as Annelle and Condola Rashad as Shelby. Production begins this month, with the premiere scheduled for later this year.
Q: Is it true that the HBO series “Luck” has been canceled because three horses died? — Rosalind R., Fort Worth, Texas
A: Unfortunately, that is true. While a second season had been ordered, producers David Milch and Michael Mann decided to pull the plug on the Dustin Hoffman-starring series, stating: “Safety is always of paramount concern. … While we maintained the highest safety standards possible, accidents unfortunately happen, and it is impossible to guarantee they won’t in the future. Accordingly, we have reached this difficult decision.”
Q and A: Week of March 19
Q: The addition of James Spader to “The Office” as Robert California has really helped with Steve Carell’s leaving. Now I hear that James is leaving the show. Is it true? — Donald D. in MinnesotaA: James Spader will not be back next season. Executive producer Paul Lieberstein (who also plays Toby) says that it was always James’ intent to stay only one season. In fact, he was scheduled to be in only last year’s finale but, as Paul stated, James’ scenes were so compelling, “those two scenes became a season.”
Q: I’m going through some serious “True Blood” withdrawal. Do you know when it’ll be back for its fifth season? — Kristen B., via e-mail
A: Eric, Bill and company want to do bad things with you for 12 episodes this summer. If you hunger for a new Sookie adventure, then head to your local bookstore on May 1 for the release of “Deadlocked,” the latest installment in the Southern Vampire Mysteries on which the HBO series is based. You also can reacquaint yourself with season four on May 29, when the series will be released on DVD and Blu-ray.
Q: I am thrilled to hear that “Titanic” is being rereleased soon in 3-D. Can you tell me when it will hit theaters? — Jeanette F., Gary, Ind.
A: Look for the big boat on the big screen starting Friday, April 6, and be prepared for even more thrills than the original release. Because of the new 3-D effects, it can only make the sinking scenes even more intense. And believe me, they were scary enough to begin with — even for the actors involved.
I spoke with “Titanic” co-star Eric Braeden, who portrayed John Jacob Astor, and he told me about filming his drowning scene. Eric, who also has played billionaire businessman Victor Newman on “The Young and The Restless” since 1980, revealed to me: “That was one of the scariest moments in this business for me, because you had all that water coming from the sides, and 150 tons of water coming from the top. Once the water reaches a certain level, then everything that is not bolted to the bottom just crashes through the room. With the water rising and rising, and then suddenly 150 tons comes on top — it was one of the scariest moments I’ve spent in this business.”
Q: My husband and I love “A Gifted Man,” and wonder if it’ll be back this fall. — The Crouses, Virginia Beach, Va.
A: Things are not looking good for the CBS medical drama, which stars Patrick Wilson. Its ratings have been pretty low, and two of the series’ stars have been cast in other fall shows as backup. You can sign a petition for CBS to keep the show at tvseriesfinale.com/tv-show/a-gifted-man-petition-22315, or via snail mail: Ms. Nina Tassler, CBS, 7800 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90039, RE: A Gifted Man.
Q and A: Week of Feb. 6
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| Julianne Moore as Sarah Palin |
A: Julianne does indeed star as the 2008 vice-presidential hopeful in the HBO movie “Game Change,” which is based on the 2010 book of the same name. The movie premieres on Saturday, March 10, and also stars Ed Harris as Sen. John McCain and Woody Harrelson as campaign chair Steve Schmidt, along with Peter MacNicol, Sarah Paulson and Ron Livingston. The movie will mainly track the actions of the Republican Party during the 2008 elections, while the book devotes equal time to both Republicans and Democrats.
Q: I got completely hooked on HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” and I can’t wait until it returns for its second season. Would you know when that might be? — Brad F., via e-mail
A: Well, Brad, I just happen to have that little nugget of info — and I am willing to share. The next season of the medieval-fantasy series begins (no fooling) April 1 at 9 p.m., and like the first season, the second season will be 10 episodes long. And Lena Headey (who plays Ceresei) tells us that season two will bring even more drama (Is that possible?). The show also stars Peter Dinklage as Tyrion, Emilia Clarke as Daenerys, Nikolai Coster-Waldau as Jaime, Kit Harington as Jon and Michelle Fairley as Catelyn.
Q: I’m confused: First I heard Marg Helgenberger is leaving “CSI” for good, then I heard she’s not, and now I hear she is again. Can you clear this up for me? — Constance D., Newport, Conn.
A: I’ll try. Marg, who left the top-rated CBS crime drama at the end of January, is pretty much gone — as a regular castmember. However, her character’s future has been left open so Marg can return for a guest appearance, if she wishes. Marg assures her fans that they haven’t seen the last of Catherine Willows: “That was one of the reasons why it was a little easier for me to leave the show, because the producers said to me practically every day that the door is wide open. If I’m available and I’m up for it, you betcha.”
Q: I am dying to find out who killed Rosie Larson! When will “The Killing” return? — Darla A., Portland, Ore.
A: Hang in there just a few more months, Darla! Sunday, April 1 marks the return of the suspense drama to AMC with a two-hour premiere starting at 8/7c. The following week, the series returns to its normal timeslot of 9/8c. If you need to catch up or want to refresh your memory, you can see the entire 13-episode first season On Demand starting Monday, March 5.
Q and A: Week of Jan. 9
Q: I know how much you love Fox’s “New Girl,” so do you have any scoop on what will happen in the new year? Jennifer S., in CaliforniaA: I recently spoke with Kali Hawk who’s co-starred in such movies as “Couples Retreat,” “Get Him to the Greek” and “Bridesmaids” and she will be appearing in a multi-episode arc in January and February. Kali told me: “It was one of those things where everything lined up. I’m good friends with one of the series regulars, Jake Johnson, who plays Nick on that show. For my episodes, I play a love interest for Winston, played by Lamorne Morris. I’m someone from his past who resurfaces. It’s very interesting to see how that goes because as we all know, sometimes when you reach back, it’s not exactly the same as it once was.”
You can read the rest of the interview here later this week to learn about her experiences on all of her different movies, including the upcoming Tyler Perry movie “We the Peeples.”
Q: I read in your column that Ricky Gervais is hosting the Golden Globes this year, which I am excited for. Is he currently in a TV series or movie that I can catch him in? Delilah F., via e-mail
A: Ricky’s hit BBC Two show, “Life’s Too Short,” will debut Sunday, Feb. 19, on HBO. It also stars Stephen Merchant and Warwick Davis, and centers on Warwick, who plays a fictionalized version of himself, and his day-to-day life. The series boasts A-list guest stars such as Johnny Depp, Liam Neeson, Steve Carell, Sting and many more.
Q: Will Luke Perry be making a sequel to last year’s “Goodnight for Justice” for the Hallmark Channel? I really enjoyed it. Jonathan P., via e-mailA: It just so happens that Luke will indeed star in another “Goodnight” movie, this one called “Goodnight for Justice: The Measure of a Man,” which premieres Saturday, Jan. 28, at 8/7c. Luke returns as traveling circuit-court judge John Goodnight.
I asked Luke how he felt when he learned the original movie became the highest-rated film in the history of the Hallmark Movie Channel. He told me: “I was just hoping to get the chance to do another one. I don’t go into it with any expectation other than I try to make the best movie every time. I feel the pressure to do all I can to promote the film, but I’ve been doing this long enough to know that audiences are fickle and different things happen, so you make the film and control what you can, which is your part of the process.” Check back next week to read our entire interview.
Q: I love Laura Dern’s new show, “Enlightened,” on HBO. Will it return for another season? Sally T., Jacksonville, Fla.
A: HBO just announced that “Enlightened” will be back for a second season. However, it has decided to cancel “Hung” and “Bored to Death,” both of which completed their third seasons.
Q and A: Week of Sept. 26
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| Michael C. Hall |
A: Wait no longer, Stacie. ‘Dexter’ returns to Showtime on Sunday, Oct. 2 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. This 12-episode season will see some major changes for our favorite serial killer/blood-spatter analyst (played by Michael C. Hall). According to Showtime’s president David Nevins: ‘There’s going to be some things that happen over this season of ‘Dexter’ that can change some of the DNA in the show.
“As a programmer, I believe in change,” he said. “I’m not scared of change. I know where they’re going this season and have some sense of where they could go in subsequent seasons.’ As of now there is no official word on a season seven, however, all parties are in serious negotiations to make that happen.
Q: I love the addition of Marc Anthony to TNT’s ‘HawthoRNe.’ What’s in store for his character and Jada Pinkett Smith’s for next season? — Sylvia R., Oakland, Calif.
A: There’s nothing in store for these characters next season, I’m afraid, as TNT decided not to renew the medical drama for a fourth season. A network rep said: ‘TNT has decided not to order a fourth season of ‘HawthoRNe.’ TNT truly appreciates the tremendous dedication of everyone involved in ‘HawthoRNe.’ The series gave TNT the opportunity to work with many outstanding people, including Jada Pinkett Smith and the rest of the show’s talented cast, crew, producers and writers. We wish everyone involved with ‘HawthoRNe’ nothing but the best.”
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| Andy Whitfield |
A: It makes me very sad to report that the handsome young actor recently lost his battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He passed away on Sept. 11 at the age of 39 with his wife, Vashti, at his side. She released this statement: ‘He passed peacefully surrounded by love. Thank you to all his fans whose love and support have helped carry him to this point. He will be remembered as the inspiring, courageous and gentle man, father and husband he was.’
Q: First of all, I still can’t believe that the original ‘Law and Order’ was canceled. And second, can you tell me what series star Sam Waterston has coming up? — Judith F., Altoona, Pa.
A: You’ll have to wait only a little while longer to see Mr. Waterston on television again, but you’ll need to order HBO if you don’t already have it. He is set to star in the new series by writer Aaron Sorkin (who wrote ‘The West Wing’ and ‘The Social Network’) about cable news. The as-yet-untitled drama will center on a cable-news anchor played by Jeff Daniels and a newsroom boss played by Sam Waterston.
Q and A: Week of April 25
Q: I am going through some serious “True Blood” withdrawal! Can you tell me when the show will return? I know it’s usually over the summer, but I haven’t heard a specific date yet. — Ginger F., via e-mailA: HBO just announced that season four of the vampire (and fairy and shifter and witch) drama will begin Sunday, June 26. However, if you need your vampire fix before then, Charlaine Harris will release book 11 of the Southern Vampire Mysteries, “Dead Reckoning” — on which the “True Blood” series is based — on May 3. Also, the “True Blood” season three DVD will be released on May 31.
And, since this is the summer of contests, you have a chance to win a copy of the season three “True Blood” DVD set. Write to me at letters@cindyelavsky.com, or at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, and tell me if you are on Team Bill, Team Eric or Team Alcide. I will randomly draw one lucky winner to receive the “True Blood” season three box set. Deadline is May 31.
Q: Do you know if “In Plain Sight” will be returning on USA? We thoroughly enjoy it and hope it’s not canceled. — Pete and Ann, Venice, Fla.
A: The USA network’s drama starring Mary McCormack will return for its fourth season on Sunday, May 1. The show already has been renewed for it’s fifth season, which is scheduled for a 2012 premiere. So, no worries for your favorite show — you’ll have at least 20-something more episodes on the way.
Q: The other day, my mom was watching “My Girl” on DVD and it got me to wondering what Anna Chlumsky, the actress who played Vada, is doing now. She was so good in the movie! — Paula F., Fresno, Calif.A: Anna’s most recent role is that of Jennifer Mills in the Hallmark Channel original movie “3 Weeks, 3 Kids,” premiering Saturday, May 7. Jennifer is a free spirit who is forced to grow up when her parents hatch a plan for their solo daughter to care for her sister’s rambunctious children. Of taking on this surrogate-mom role, Anna says: “My character has to face her fears of letting the kids down and letting herself down, and in confronting those fears, that’s really where you find your courage.”
Anna, now 30, has guest-starred on “30 Rock” and “Law and Order,” among many other shows. She also just finished shooting “Veep,” a pilot for HBO opposite Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and is in production on the feature film “Sam,” starring opposite Chris Klein.
Q: NCIS is my favorite show. I was told that Mark Harmon is leaving. Is that true? — Linda J., Nokomis, Fla.
A: With record-setting ratings and being picked up for a ninth season, you can bet Mark won’t be leaving “NCIS” anytime soon.
Q and A: Week of April 11
Q: I’ve had a crush on Justin Bruening since he was on “All My Children” in the mid-2000s. What is he up to lately? — Michelle T., via e-mailA: The former “AMC” and “Knight Rider” star was recently cast in the new “Wonder Woman” reboot, where he’ll serve as a love interest for the superhero herself, played by Adrianne Palicki. Justin, 31, joins one of my crushes, Cary Elwes — who I called dibs on back when he starred as Wesley in “The Princess Bride” — on the new series, which is scheduled to join NBC’s lineup this fall.
Q: I was wondering about actor Jameson Parker, who starred with Gerald McRaney on “Simon and Simon.” What has he been doing lately? I saw a recent picture of him, and he is still blond and gorgeous at 63. — Catherine H., Clinton Township, Mich.
A: Jameson, who played AJ Simon in the hit ’80s series, has been lying pretty low, acting-wise, for a few years. After “Simon and Simon,” Jameson starred in TV movies and guest-starred on many series, including McRaney’s hit sitcom “Major Dad.” He also has written a few books, including an autobiography called “An Accidental Cowboy” and another book titled “To Absent Friends,” which he describes as “a book about dogs we miss.” Back in 1992, Jameson was shot twice during a dispute with his neighbor over dog waste. He was released from the hospital the next day and made a full recovery. The neighbor was charged with attempted murder and sentenced to nine years in prison.
Q: I’ve always liked actress Tea Leoni. Can I see her in anything new soon? – Todd B., via e-mail
A: Tea is joining hubby David Duchovny’s rival network, HBO, for a new comedy called “Spring/Summer.” As I’m sure you know, David stars in the hit Showtime series “Californication,” which recently finished airing its fourth season. But back to Tea … her new show, which is scheduled to begin shooting in June, marks her return to network television. Her most recent TV appearance was as a guest star on David’s show, “The X-Files,” back in 2000.
READERS: Celebrity Extra’s summer of contests continues with your chance to win books: Three sets of “Dragonstone” and its soon-to-be-released sequel, “The Dragon’s Heart,” are up for grabs (Check back later this week for reviews to both books). Written by Michelle Young, these fantasy/historical/romance novels center on the enchanting world of Latharia, where magic rules, dragons fill the skies and everyone has a secret. If you think this kind of book is not your style (as I did before I read them), think again. Three lucky readers have a chance to win an autographed copy of BOTH books. Write to me at letters@cindyelavsky.com, or at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, and tell me why you’d like to be transported the magical world of Latharia this summer. Deadline is May 31.
Q and A: Week of Feb. 21
Q: I watched Season 1 of the HBO series “Boardwalk Empire” starring Steve Buscemi. It is the best new series since “The Sopranos.” Is there a second season in the works? — Lisa C., Port Charlotte, Fla.A: “Boardwalk Empire” was renewed for a second season by HBO just two days after the show’s record-setting premiere in September. Even if that hadn’t happened, the numerous accolades the freshman series has been given — including Golden Globes for Best Dramatic Series and Best Dramatic Actor for Steve Buscemi (pictured) — would have guaranteed its renewal. Look for it this fall.
Q: When will the new season of “Nurse Jackie” start airing? I really miss getting my Edie Falco fix. — Grace R., via e-mail
A: It’s not long now, Grace. Edie and gang will be back when “Nurse Jackie” has its Season 3 premiere March 28 on Showtime. In other Showtime news, “Californication” has been renewed for a fifth season, “The Real L Word” will return in the summer, and Jeremy Irons (!) comes to Showtime in the new series “The Borgias,” beginning Sunday, April 3, at 9 p.m. Jeremy stars in this epic period drama as Rodrigo Borgia, the manipulative patriarch of the Borgia family who ascends to the highest circles of power in Renaissance-era Italy. By the looks of it, Showtime is really giving HBO a run for its money in the original-series department, wouldn’t you say?
Q: I keep hearing rumors that “Dallas” is going to be remade for television. Is that true, and if so, what can you tell me about it? — Kyra L., Tacoma, Wash.
A: This time, the rumor mill is correct. TNT has optioned a pilot for “Dallas,” which will center on the new generation — J.R. Ewing’s son, John Ross, and the adopted son of Bobby and Pam Ewing, Christopher — as they clash over the future of the family dynasty. Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray are all signed on to reprise their previous roles — J.R., Bobby and Sue Ellen, respectively. Jordana Brewster (“Fast and Furious”) and Josh Henderson (“Desperate Housewives”) also are set to star. As of this writing, it is not known exactly when the series will premiere, but I have my fingers crossed for fall 2011.
Q: I think “The Whole Truth” is a great program, but it has not been on the air for a few months. The banter between Rob Morrow and Maura Tierney is fast-paced with a hint of something electrical going on between them. Please tell me this show will be on the air again soon. — Louise G., via e-mail
A: I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but “The Whole Truth” was pulled from ABC’s schedule in December, with no plans to air the remaining seven episodes. Perhaps ABC will release Season 1 on DVD, with 13 episodes of the show included, but you never know these days.
Q and A: Week of Nov. 15
Q: I love watching “Family Feud” and think Steve Harvey is doing great, but what happened with John O’Hurley? Why did he leave? He was a terrific host! — Gina T. in TexasA: I spoke with John (pictured left, photo credit Virginia Sherwood/NBC) recently to talk about his other hosting duties, that of the ninth-annual National Dog Show presented by Purina (which airs on Thanksgiving Day after the Macy’s Parade), and he told me the reason behind his departure: “I had a wonderful time hosting ‘Family Feud.’ They wanted to move the show to Orlando, but with my child responsibilities here that just wasn’t going to happen. So, I just have to look at it as four phenomenal years. I miss the show dearly, but it frees me up to do so many other things. I’m back on Broadway, and will be heading back to Broadway again, and those are things that I just couldn’t do as freely when I was committed to ‘Family Feud.’” John is very grateful that you enjoyed him on the show, as well as the MANY other readers who wrote in to me to tell me that they missed him.
Q: I remember awhile back you reported that “Avatar” star CCH Pounder told you that there would be a sequel. Is that still in the works, or was it just wishful thinking? — Travis G., via e-mail
A: Would I, or CCH Pounder, ever steer you wrong? There are actually TWO “Avatar” sequels in the works. 20th Century Fox hopes to have the first of the as-of-now-untitled sequels in theaters by December 2014, with the third movie released the following December 2015. Director/visionary James Cameron released this statement: “In the second and third films, which will be self-contained stories that also fulfill a greater story arc, we will not back off the throttle of ‘Avatar’s’ visual and emotional horsepower, and will continue to explore its themes and characters, which touched the hearts of audiences in all cultures around the world.”
Q: When is HBO’s “Big Love” coming back for its fifth season? — Justine D., via e-mail
A: The hit drama series about a Salt Lake City businessman (played by Bill Paxton) and his three wives (Jeanne Tripplehorn, Chloe Sevigny and Ginnifer Goodwin) will return for its fifth and final season on Jan. 16.
Q: I read that they were making a sequel to “Napoleon Dynamite.” Is that true? — Flint M., Akron, Ohio
A: It’s not exactly a sequel. Fox has ordered six episodes of an animated version of the 2004 cult hit, which starred Jon Heder and Efren Ramirez (as Napoleon and his friend Pedro). Efren told me that one episode is already in the can and that everyone is thrilled with it. He told me that “it appeals to everybody, and it’s funny. It’s got all of the original cast and the original writers. And it’s Fox, and as you know, Fox does a great job with animated series.”
Q and A: Week of Nov. 1
Q: Is it true that a sequel to “Top Gun” is in the works? — Fred D., Akron, OhioA: All MiG-28s point to “yes.” While it is still in the early stages of development, “Top Gun 2” is in Paramount’s sights, although the production company will not confirm anything on the record at this time. Tom Cruise (pictured left in the original, with Kelly McGillis) was said to have been approached for a cameo in the sequel, but studio officials are quick to deny that claim. I think it’s still a possibility that Maverick will make an appearance; they just want it to be a surprise for us fans, so they are denying it. However, all of us nosy-pants on the Internet make surprises quite difficult to pull off, wouldn’t you agree?
Q: I am glad to see that “Conspiracy Theory With Jesse Ventura” is back for its second season. I was surprised truTV gave it the green light to go ahead in the first place, since most channels try to stay away from anything even the slightest bit controversial. — Lisa J., via e-mail
A: I know what you mean, and I’m happy that truTV is sticking by its most controversial show (its record-breaking ratings for its first season didn’t hurt, either). The governor himself told me how proud he is of the network for taking a chance on his show: “I give truTV a lot of credit. They’re showing a great deal of courage for putting this show on television. They came on board with both guns blazing. I have to tell you that I couldn’t be happier.” For more of my chat with Gov. Ventura, go here. Trust me, we cover some really good stuff!
Q: I finally had the chance to see “You Don’t Know Jack,” the HBO movie with Al Pacino starring as Jack Kevorkian. Al was great, as usual. Did he meet Dr. Kevorkian before portraying him? — Britney F., San Antonio
A: Al Pacino told The New York Times that he did not want to meet the doctor to prepare for his role, as he wanted to discover the character himself and didn’t feel that meeting him prior would be productive. He said he “prefers playing a real character, someone who exists, because it gives a kind of credibility to what you are doing.” Al has since signed on to another HBO biopic, this one being a David Mamet-written film about Phil Spector. I am thinking he won’t be meeting with Phil beforehand either.
Q: Can you tell me if Scott Caan of “Hawaii Five-O” is related to James Caan? — Joyce C., via e-mail
A: Scott, 34, is indeed the son of legendary actor James Caan. Scott, who plays Danno in the revamped version of the hit 1970s police drama, has been building quite a resume for himself. He has appeared in “Ocean’s Eleven,” “Ocean’s Twelve” and “Ocean’s Thirteen,” as well as “Varsity Blues” and “Into the Blue.”
Interview: Can Ana de la Reguera Tame Kenny Powers?
If you don't yet know who Ana de la Reguera is, you soon will. She has starred opposite some of the hottest A-listers in Hollywood, and she just finished work on one of the most talked about movies for 2011 (Cowboys & Aliens). Currently she co-stars in the funniest show on television today (it's a scientific fact), HBO's Eastbound & Down, which airs Sundays at 10:30 p.m. I got the chance to catch up with Ana a few weeks ago, and we discussed her new life in the Funny Lane.Celebrity Extra: The other night I rented Cop Out, and I thought it was hilarious. How was it to work with Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan?
Ana de la Reguera: It was great. It was a great experience just to watch them work together. They are so different. They come from different schools. They’d improvise a lot. I had a blast. I was a huge fan of Kevin Smith, so for me that was perfect for my career to be close to those people and to learn more about comedy. I worked in New York for one month last year in the summer, and I had the best time.
CE: What did you like most about working on that movie with them?
Ana: I like the freedom that Kevin gave me. The character was pretty much the girl who was really scared, and they save her and are taking care of her. I just thought it would be more interesting if more than being scared, she was mad and pissed about what was going on in her life, about what was happening to her. My whole part is in Spanish, and they couldn’t understand a word of what I was saying. So, Kevin just had to trust me, and I was like, “Oh my gosh, he doesn’t even know what I’m saying.” For me it was cool, but at the same time I was nervous, because I felt like everything depended on me — what I’m saying or that I’m doing the right thing, because they don’t know. I felt really good that they liked what I did and it worked out really well.
CE: Tell me about filming Nacho Libre with Jack Black where you played Sister Encarnacion. I have to tell you that this movie is one of my favorite comedies of the past 10 years — I laughed so hard in some scenes I was crying.
Ana: Oh, thank you! For me it was a blessing because I’m a nun. (Laughs) I’m kidding. We were in Mexico the whole time in a beautiful town called Oaxaca. So, the whole crew was Mexican. The only Americans were literally Jack, Jared (Hess, writer and director) and Mike White (writer). The rest of us were Mexican folks. It was really nice that they were adapting to us. I think Jared did a great job. He’s fluent in Spanish so he did a great job trying to get on the screen our culture and who were are, and he was very respectful about it. We had the best time. Oaxaca is one of the best places to eat, and so I gained a lot of weight because Jack is a good eater. He was eating the whole time.
For me, that movie was my big breakout. I was living in Mexico. I was an actress, of course. I already had a pretty good career there. From that moment I had almost 10 years acting, but I got the part without an agent or anything. I had a plan to go away to American to try to make it in Hollywood, but I couldn’t. I didn’t have the money. But then the movie came to Mexico and I got the part.
CE: That’s great that Hollywood came to you!
Ana: Yeah, but after that movie it’s been pretty hard. It’s really, really hard to keep working. There’s a lot of competition out there. There’s a lot of great Latina actresses out there competing for the same roles. Sometimes I have too much accent or I don’t look Mexican enough or sometimes I don’t have enough accent — it’s weird. I struggle a lot, but now I think I get it. After a couple of years, you learn how L.A. works.
CE: Now fans can catch you in HBO’s outrageous and HILARIOUS comedy, Eastbound & Down, which is hands-down one of my favorite shows out right now. What can you tell me about the part you play, Vida, as well as any plot points you can divulge?Ana: Well, you know that Kenny leaves April at the gas station. So, he basically disappears and wants to start over and wants to go to a new world, so he goes to Mexico. When he comes, I think it’s going to be really, really fun because his character is not that smart. I think he’s pretty ignorant. He’s in a completely new culture. His weaknesses are much bigger. He meets me there and I’m a singer. He thinks we have a connection because I sing Bob Segar songs, covers, but in Spanish the whole time. It was a lot of fun to record those songs. But I can’t tell you much; I don’t want to ruin the story.
CE: How on Earth do you keep a straight face playing opposite Danny McBride?
Ana: Oh my gosh. It is really, really hard. What helps me is I just block my mind, and I’m not listening to him. Because if not, there have been times when the crew couldn’t even work because they were laughing. The camera guy was laughing, and the camera moved because he was laughing. Those guys are really sweet and we improvised a lot. The way they work is we did the scene as it was written like two or three times, and then they just let us free. They let us do whatever we wanted and say whatever we wanted, and we just improvised over and over. I think that’s really a smart thing to do in a comedy show. Those were the hardest moments, because you didn’t expect what somebody was going to say or do. I had the best time. The people from HBO are the sweetest people. They were so nice to me. I couldn’t ask for more. Literally I had the best time of my life.
CE: All the comedic geniuses you’ve worked with, and you can keep a straight face. Directors should pay heed!
Ana: Yeah, I’m really good at it. You know why? Because what happened to me when I did Nacho Libre is — what I am used to is usually when you film in Mexico, the actual film is so expensive that you are not allowed to be laughing like we were doing (on Nacho Libre). How I am used to working is not being able to do very many takes because it’s so expensive, and we don’t have the budget to ruin the scene just because we were laughing. In Mexico, that would be so bad for the director that you are ruining the film, because we don’t have that much money to spend. For me, doing that is disrespectful to the crew. So, that’s why even though I know that I’m allowed to do it, I’m just trained that way not to laugh. I just try to keep a straight face all the time and then laugh after.
CE: I’ve read that although Danny plays a lot of asshole characters that he is really a nice person to work with.Ana: Yes he is. He and the directors, the writers and the producers were the nicest people, and they are all friends from college. The atmosphere on set was like you were just with friends all the time, and everything was really relaxed. He is the nicest most humble guy and so talented. Like really — he is really, really talented. I would love to work with him again. He’s pretty hot. He’s really smart and educated. He’s really different.
CE: What other projects do you have coming up?
Ana: I do a lot of dramas in Mexico. I have another HBO show; it’s for HBO Latin America that I did for a season two years ago. It’s going to be funny because I’m going to be on HBO in America and HBO in Latin America with different shows. It’s a show called Capadocia. It’s really dark. It’s a big drama.
And I just finished up a movie called Cowboys & Aliens with Jon Favreau directing, and starring Daniel Craig, Sam Rockwell and Harrison Ford. It’s an action adventure film that is really more unusual for me. I have this love story with Sam. It’s a very, very pretty role.
(pictures 2 and 3: Credit HBO/Fred Norris)
Interview: Lindsay Pulsipher Mingles With Vampires
True Blood, which airs Sunday nights at 9 on HBO, has had everyone talking since the show began in 2008. The Emmy-nominated show, based on the series of best-selling books by Charlaine Harris, is known for its solid pedigree of featured stars and guest stars. New to the show this season is Lindsay Pulsipher (pictured left, photo credit JSquared Photography), who previously co-starred in The Beast with the late Patrick Swayze. Lindsay plays new-girl-in-town Crystal, and she just happens to stir up some trouble.Celebrity Extra: When you came aboard True Blood, it was already a bona fide hit with a solid fan base. Was that intimidating for you, or did it get you excited to tackle this role?
Lindsay Pulsipher: I was over-the-moon excited. I was screaming at the top of my lungs when I got the news I’d been cast. Then once all that settled in, I realized the caliber of the show. I knew I was coming into a huge, huge show with a huge fan base and a big following. So there was a little bit of — panic sets in and then you think, “Oh man, can I pull this off and make people excited about this role?” So I hope that I’ve pulled through.
CE: Had you read any of the books before getting the part?
LP: You know when I got the part; I had not read the books. I made a conscious decision to hold off reading them, because I wanted to look at Crystal through the writers’ eyes on the show. And then once I kind of got a feeling for the character and I kind of knew where they were taking her and everything, I decided to start reading the books. I’m on the third book now, and it’s so good. I can see why people are so into it.
CE: What can you tell me about Crystal?
LP: Well, Crystal is just a really strong and spirited character. And I think that it’s every actor’s dream to kind of play a role that has a little meat to it. And there’s a lot for me to play with, with Crystal. She’s multilayered and she’s complex, and she’s got a lot of issues in her life right now. And she’s a little bit manic and it’s fun to be able to explore all those avenues and she’s definitely not one dimensional which is fun.
CE: What’s the overall atmosphere of the show; how is everyone to work with?
LP: It’s a very light and friendly set. Everybody has an amazing time and you can tell everybody just loves their job. And everybody is so happy to be there, which makes for such a pleasant environment. And that being said though, everybody is very professional and takes their job very seriously. And all the actors on the show are really dedicated to their characters, and they know their characters very well.
CE: Can you give me a tease about what going to come up in the next few episodes?
LP: I can definitely tell you that Crystal causes rifts in BT [Bon Temps], but it’s not just for Jason. She causes some problems for some of the other characters and gets herself into some trouble.
CE: Now, can you tell me if your character will be back in Season 4, or might that give something away?
LP: It’s probably best if I don’t answer that. It could potentially give away some spoilers. So I should probably stay away from that question (laughs).
CE: FlashForward was one of my favorite new shows of last season, and I was surprised to see you pop up in the last moments of the final episode as Teenaged Charlie. Have you heard anything about any possible chance of it being brought back, even if it's to another network?
LP: You know, there hasn’t been any talk of that that I know of unfortunately. I know that a lot of people really loved that show, and I think that it had amazing potential to be really great next season. But unfortunately I have not heard anything. But, that would be really cool if it did because I would really love to work on that show again.
CE: Yeah, I want to start a campaign for TNT to bring it back, or AMC, or any of those cutting-edge cable networks.
LP: Yeah, I know. I have a lot of friends who feel that same way. It had a lot of potential, and it was really different and interesting. I’m kind of sad that it’s not going to come back. But you never know, and if another cable network wants to pick it up, that would be amazing!
CE: Prior to this, you co-starred in The Beast with Patrick Swayze. Can you tell me what he was like as a person, and how he was to work with?
LP: Patrick is — was — such an amazing person and I can’t say enough things about him. He was sweet, kind, generous and had an amazingly dirty sense of humor. He was such a jokester. You know, always joking and making things so pleasant and light. Oh, he was such an inspiration. I can’t say enough good things about him. [Going through cancer treatment while shooting the show] really put things into perspective for me. Like if I was kind of tired or my call time was at an ungodly hour, it made me think twice of even complaining inside my head because I knew what he was going through. Never once did he come to work unprepared. He was always in top-notch form. And it was so inspiring to see.
CE: Tell me about the feature film you star in, The Oregonian.
LP: The film is amazing. It’s kind of an art horror film, if you will. My character is this girl who’s leaving home and, without giving too much away, she’s gets into a car accident. And she kind of wakes up and doesn’t know if she’s alive or dead or in purgatory somewhere. And it’s her journey discovering that. And she encounters a lot crazy things along the way, and it’s really different. I’ve never done anything like it. It’s really different and bizarre, and I’m really excited about it.
Q and A: Week of August 9
Q: Can you tell me if Timothy Hutton (pictured left, photo credit Darren Michaels, TNT) is the son of Jim Hutton of the “Ellery Queen” TV mystery series of old? — Rae S., via e-mailA: Film and television star Jim Hutton is indeed the father of “Leverage” star Timothy Hutton. Jim gained fame on projects such as “The Green Berets,” “Hellfighters,” “Walk, Don’t Run” and “Bachelor in Paradise.” In 1975, Jim landed the role he is perhaps best-known for, that of the titular character in “Ellery Queen.” He passed away of liver cancer in 1979 at the age of 45.
Q: I just finished reading the book “One Day” by David Nicholls and absolutely loved it. Is it being made into a movie? — Darla E., via e-mail
A: I loved the book as well and am happy to report that the movie adaptation is currently filming in England. Anne Hathaway stars as Emma, and Jim Sturgess is Dexter. The film will follow the story of Dex and Em, two university classmates who meet on graduation night in 1988, and fall in and out of each other’s life over the next two decades. In a clever storytelling convention, each chapter lets the reader explore the protagonists’ lives on July 15 of each year, beginning on that fateful day after graduation.
Q: Dustin Hoffman has always been one of my favorite actors. What does he have coming up? — Julie F., Denver
A: HBO landed the award-winning actor for its new series, “Luck,” which is about the horse-racing world: the owners, jockeys and gamblers. Filming begins this fall, and the show co-stars Dennis Farina and Nick Nolte. The pilot episode will be directed by Michael Mann, of “Miami Vice,” “Heat” and “Public Enemies” fame.
Q: I have a question that I have been wondering about for two years. Why was “Boston Legal” canceled? I have heard it was due to low ratings, which I have a hard time believing since so many people watched and enjoyed it. I have to wonder if some of the storylines were too controversial and ruffled some feathers? – Monnie F., via e-mail
A: Writer and creator David E. Kelley told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette in December 2008: “ABC didn’t want us back. We had to fight to get back on with 13 [episodes]. It’s not a product they care to market. Five years into the show, if anyone has ever seen the show at ABC, they’ve yet to bring it to my attention,” he said.
David speculated the lack of promotion had to do with the fact that 20th Century Fox produced the show, not ABC itself, so ABC didn’t share in the profits. “Even though our numbers are solid, not huge, I think the conventional wisdom at ABC, and I don’t know this, but I’m guessing they continue to believe they can develop their own product and get that [rating] number, and then also share in the profits.”
Celebrity Q&A, March 2
Q: I heard that Kate Winslet (pictured left) is going to star in a television show. Is that true? I can’t imagine her leaving the big screen behind to be a TV star! – Delilah M., via e-mailA: Oscar-winning British actress Kate Winslet is indeed coming to a television set near you, but the move is definitely not permanent. Kate has signed on to star in the HBO miniseries “Mildred Pierce,” which begins shooting in April. But she is not leaving the big screen behind. She has one as-yet-untitled movie in the can (co-starring the likes of Gerard Butler, Naomi Watts, Hugh Jackman and Emma Stone) and another feature film in the works called “Contagion,” which stars Matt Damon, Jude Law and Marion Cotillard.
Q: What’s Kirstie Alley been up to lately? I’ve always been a fan of hers, but haven’t seen her in a while. — Kathy D. in Maryland
A: Aside from her occasional Twitter battles with Joy Behar, Kirstie has been keeping a pretty low profile as of late. However, all of that will change when her new A&E reality series, “Big Life,” premieres on Sunday, March 21. “Big Life” follows Kirstie as she tries to shed the 75 pounds she has put on (and lost, and put back on) in recent years, as well as raise her two teenage children, produce a feature film and care for eight ringtail lemurs (yes, I said lemurs).
Q: I am a big fan of “The Twilight Saga,” and I really need to know if “Breaking Dawn” is going to be one movie or split into two. I don’t see how all that’s in the book could ever fit into one movie. — Livy T., West Palm Beach, Fla.
A: It would be next to impossible to make “Breaking Dawn” as a single movie without losing a LOT in the translation. Author Stephenie Meyer is of the same belief, and she pretty much has the final say when it comes to the movies. Many sources within Summit Entertainment are confirming (although not officially yet) that “Breaking Dawn” will follow in the footsteps of the Harry Potter series and be broken up into two movies. This should make everyone happy: Fans of the book series won’t feel as if the conclusion is being rushed; fans of the movie series will get to see more Rob Pattinson; and the folks behind the scenes will get more cash in their pockets.
Q: I was shocked by the sudden death of actress Brittany Murphy. Before she passed, was she working on or had she completed any movies that we fans will get to see her in, one last time? — Heather G., via e-mail
A: Before her death in December, Brittany, 32, had completed work on a movie called “Abandon,” which co-stars Dean Cain and Mimi Rogers. Anchor Bay Entertainment plans to release the thriller this summer.
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