Another Duggar Baby On The Way

Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar will double their number of grandchildren next summer. Josh Duggar, the eldest Duggar offspring in the reality-show family on TLC’s “19 Kids and Counting,” and his wife, Anna, will welcome their second child in June 2011. The couple already has a daughter, Mackynzie, who turned a year old on October 8th. Josh and Anna say their news was a welcome happiness after the couple suffered a miscarriage this summer. Anna and Josh’s news will be featured on “19 Kids and Counting: GrandDuggar First Birthday” on Sunday on TLC.

‘Biggest Loser’ Crew Goes On Strike

The production crew behind NBC’s hit reality series “The Biggest Loser” has gone on strike with the hope of gaining union representation. The crew reportedly walked off the set of the show on Monday after producers denied their request to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.

 

New ‘Call Of Duty’ Blasts Sales Record

“Call of Duty: Black Ops” sold 5.6 million copies in 24 hours, making it the biggest entertainment launch ever, Activision said yesterday. That breaks the previous record of 4.7 million, which Activision set last year with “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.” The game is also on track to outperform last year’s five-day global sales record, which was $550 million. Activision places the total one-day sales figure at $360 million.

 

Kardashian To Appear On ‘One Life To Live’

Kourtney Kardashian will make her acting debut on ABC’s “One Life to Live.” The guest spot will first be featured in a March episode of E!’s series, “Kourtney and Kim Take New York,” debuting this January. Kardashian will appear on “One Life to Live” in scenes with Cristian Vega, played by David Fumero, and Blair Cramer, played by Kassie DePaiva.

Vernon Kay To Host ‘Skating With The Stars’

British TV personality Vernon Kay has signed on as host of the upcoming U.S. reality competition series “Skating with the Stars,” ABC announced. U.S. Olympic ice dancer Tanith Belbin will be the color commentator on the show, set to premiere November 22nd. The network also announced the professional skaters the celebrities will be paired with: Bethenny Frankel and Ethan Burgess; Brandon Mychal Smith and Keauna McLaughlin; Jonny Moseley and Brooke Castile; Rebecca Budig and Fred Palascak; Sean Young and Denis Petukhov; and Vince Neil and Jennifer Wester.

Syfy To Help Promote ‘Spider-Man’ Musical

Syfy says it will be a lead media partner for the upcoming Broadway musical “Spider-Man Turn Off the Dark,” which features music by U2’s Bono and The Edge. Elements of the partnership between the musical and Syfy include sweepstakes and special promotions. “Turn Off the Dark” is to begin performances at Broadway’s Foxwoods Theatre November 28th, with opening night set for January 11th.

‘The Simpsons’ To Hit New Milestone

“The Simpsons” has been commissioned for a 23rd season that will start in autumn 2011, during which the show will celebrate its 500th episode next series. The landmark episode will be broadcast in 2012 and the next run will extend “The Simpsons” record as the longest running American primetime entertainment series.

The Hulk Getting Hitched

Hulk Hogan has applied for a marriage license in Florida. The 57-year-old wrestling icon proposed to Jennifer McDaniel, 35, last December, five months after finalizing his divorce from ex-wife Linda. According to TMZ, the marriage license expires on January 11, 2011.

 

Jane Fonda Opens Up About Breast Cancer Scare

Jane Fonda has revealed she recently underwent surgery to remove a lump from her breast. The actress said she was having a routine check-up earlier this year when her doctor discovered a small tumor. The growth turned out to be non-invasive and she was booked in for surgery a few weeks ago. Fonda, 72, says she is now cancer-free as she returns to work to promote her new “Primetime Fitness” DVDs, due for release later this month.

Eddie Munster In Rehab

The former child star who played boy werewolf Eddie Munster has entered a drug and alcohol treatment facility. Butch Patrick’s agent said the 57-year-old is in a private facility in New Jersey “to deal with a lifetime problem of substance abuse.” Patrick moved to the Philadelphia area earlier this year after being contacted by a West Chester woman who had a crush on “The Munsters” actor back in the 1960s. The two hit it off and got engaged in July. She recently announced that they had split up. Patrick’s family has reportedly been pushing the actor to seek professional help for roughly 30 years for his cocaine, marijuana and alcohol issues.

Della Reese To Appear On ‘Detroit 1-8-7’

Della Reese has signed up for a guest role on the new ABC police drama “Detroit 1-8-7.” Reese, 79, will appear in an episode set to air December 7th. She will portray “an urban, working-class mother in her 70s, whose son’s body is found in an abandoned fallout shelter,” ABC said.

Brittany Murphy’s Mom Penning Memoir

Brittany Murphy’s mother is writing a memoir about her daughter, who died last December. An autopsy revealed the 32-year-old actress died of a combination of pneumonia and the use of prescription drugs. Sharon Murphy said her book “will be my way of celebrating and honoring her extraordinary life and career.” She said a portion of the book’s proceeds will be donated to charity.

Syfy To Air Makeup Effects Reality Show

Syfy is working on a new reality-competition series focusing on film makeup artistry challenges. The cable network has signed famed special-effects wizards Ve Neill, Glenn Hetrick and Patrick Tatopoulos as judges, and actress McKenzie Westmore as host of the show called “Face Off.” Scheduled to premiere in January, the series will feature 12 aspiring special-effects makeup artists “competing for their shot at makeup-effects stardom and the chance to break out in the competitive field,” Syfy said.

Nail Salon Reality

The TV Guide Network has green-lit its first original reality docu-soap, “The Nail Files.” The show was created and produced by Sally Ann Salsano and 495 Productions, the team behind the hit series “Jersey Shore.” “The Nail Files” stars Katie Cazorla, a 32-year-old entrepreneur who owns and operates the celebrity-filled Hollywood nail salon, The Painted Nail, while juggling a relationship with 52-year-old Walter Afanasieff, a Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer who’s penned and produced hits for Mariah Carey, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion and Whitney Houston. The six-episode series will premiere in mid-2011.

Lopez To Host Eastwood Tribute

George Lopez will be the master of ceremonies at a Museum of Tolerance International Film Festival gala honoring Clint Eastwood. The event takes place Sunday at the Los Angeles museum. Slated to perform at the ceremony are “America’s Got Talent” winner Michael Grimm and “American Idol” winner Taylor Hicks.

 

Cage’s Bel-Air Mansion Sells For $10.5 Million

The Bel-Air, California, home Nicolas Cage lost in foreclosure this year has been sold for $10.5 million. The 1940 Tudor-style mansion – where Dean Martin and Tom Jones had also previously lived – was listed at one point for $35 million. The 11,817-square-foot house features six bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a swimming pool, a wine cellar and a 35-seat home theater. Cage has been battling financial and tax problems in recent years. He has lost several other homes to foreclosure as well. He is suing his former business manager for allegedly mishandling his money. The manager has filed a counter-suit, claiming the actor spends more than he makes.  

Producer Dino De Laurentiis Dies

Prolific Italian film producer Dino De Laurentiis has died at his Beverly Hills home. He was 91. Among the more than 500 film credits De Laurentiis amassed during his 70-year career are “La Strada,” “Battle of the Bulge,” “Barbarella,” “Serpico,” “Death Wish,” “War and Peace,” “Blue Velvet,” “Dune” and several “Halloween,” “Amityville Horror” and “Silence of the Lambs” sequels. He was nominated for 35 Oscars and won two – in 1956 “La Strada” won for foreign language film and in 2000 he was awarded the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award.

People’s Choice Nods

“The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” has a chance to eclipse the competition at the 2011 People’s Choice Awards. Nominations were announced yesterday and “Twilight” and its stars racked up a leading eight bids. “Glee” also picked up five nominations. Fans can vote for the winners online until December 7th. The People’s Choice Awards will be presented January 5, 2011, at the Nokia Theatre and air on CBS.

 

Favorite Movie:  “Alice in Wonderland,” “Inception,” “Iron Man 2,” “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” and “Toy Story 3.”

Favorite Movie Actor: Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert Downey Jr., Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner.

Favorite Movie Actress:  Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Aniston, Julia Roberts, Katherine Heigl and Kristen Stewart.

Favorite Action Movie: “Iron Man 2,” “Kick-Ass,” “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time,” “Robin Hood” and “Salt.”

Favorite Action Star: Angelina Jolie, Bradley Cooper, Jackie Chan, Jake Gyllenhaal and Robert Downey Jr.

Favorite Drama Movie: “Alice in Wonderland,” “Dear John,” “Inception,” “The Social Network” and “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse.”

Favorite Family Movie: “Despicable Me,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Shrek Forever After,” “The Karate Kid” and “Toy Story 3.”

Favorite Comedy Movie: “Date Night,” “Easy A,” “Grown Ups,” “Sex and the City 2” and “Valentine’s Day.”

Favorite Comedic Star: Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore, Steve Carell, Tina Fey and Will Ferrell.

Favorite On-Screen Team: “Date Night” – Tina Fey and Steve Carell, “Inception” – Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ellen Page, Tom Hardy and Dileep Rao, “Iron Man 2” – Robert Downey Jr. and Don Cheadle, “The Karate Kid” – Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith, “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” – Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner.

Favorite Movie Star Under 25: Emma Watson, Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Vanessa Hudgens and Zac Efron.

Favorite Horror Movie: “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” “Let Me In,” “Resident Evil: Afterlife,” “The Crazies” and “The Last Exorcism.”

Favorite TV Drama: “Gossip Girl,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “House,” “The Good Wife” and “The Vampire Diaries.”

Favorite TV Drama Actor: Chace Crawford, Hugh Laurie, Ian Somerhalder, Patrick Dempsey and Taye Diggs.

Favorite TV Drama Actress:  Blake Lively, Julianna Margulies, Kate Walsh, Lisa Edelstein and Sandra Oh.

Favorite TV Comedy: “Glee,” “How I Met Your Mother,” “Modern Family,” “The Big Bang Theory” and “Two and a Half Men.”

Favorite TV Comedy Actor: Alec Baldwin, Jim Parsons, Matthew Morrison, Neil Patrick Harris and Steve Carell.

Favorite TV Comedy Actress: Alyson Hannigan, Courteney Cox, Eva Longoria Parker, Jane Lynch and Tina Fey.

Favorite Competition Show: “American Idol,” “America’s Got Talent,” “Dancing With the Stars,” “Hell’s Kitchen” and “So You Think You Can Dance.”

Favorite TV Crime Drama: “Bones,” “Criminal Minds,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Lie To Me” “NCIS.”

Favorite TV Crime Fighter: Emily Deschanel – “Bones,” Mariska Hargitay – “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” Mark Harmon – “NCIS,” Simon Baker – “The Mentalist” and Tim Roth – “Lie To Me.”

Favorite Sci-Fi/Fantasy Show: “Fringe,” “Smallville,” “Supernatural,” “The Vampire Diaries” and “True Blood.”

Favorite Talk Show Host: Chelsea Handler, Conan O’Brien, Ellen DeGeneres, George Lopez and Oprah Winfrey.

Favorite TV Obsession: “Burn Notice,” “Dexter,” “Pretty Little Liars,” “True Blood” and “White Collar.”

Favorite TV Guilty Pleasure: “Jersey Shore,” “Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List,” “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” and “Tosh.O.”

Favorite TV Guest Star: Betty White – “Community,” Britney Spears – “Glee,” Carrie Underwood – “How I Met Your Mother,” Demi Lovato – “Grey’s Anatomy” and Neil Patrick Harris – “Glee.”

Favorite TV Doctor: Cristina Yang – Sandra Oh (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Derek Shepherd – Patrick Dempsey (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Meredith Grey – Ellen Pompeo (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Gregory House – Hugh Laurie (“House”), James Wilson – Robert Sean Leonard (“House”).

Favorite TV Family: The Griffins – “Family Guy,” The Harpers – “Two and a Half Men,” The Pritchetts-Dunphys – “Modern Family,” The Scavos – “Desperate Housewives” and The Simpsons – “The Simpsons.”

Favorite Family TV Movie: “Beauty & the Briefcase,” “Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam,” “iCarly: iPsycho,” “Revenge of the Bridesmaids” and “Starstruck.”

Favorite TV Chef: Bobby Flay, Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver, Paula Deen and Rachael Ray.

Favorite New TV Comedy: “$#*! My Dad Says,” “Better With You,” “Mike & Molly,” “No Ordinary Family,” “Outsourced,” “Raising Hope” and “Running Wilde.”

Favorite New TV Drama: “Blue Bloods,” “Chase,” “Detroit 1-8-7,” “Hawaii Five-0,” “Hellcats,” “Law & Order: Los Angeles,” “Nikita,” “The Defenders” and “The Event.”

Favorite Male Artist: Eminem, Enrique Iglesias, Michael Bublé, Tim McGraw and Usher.

Favorite Female Artist: Carrie Underwood, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, P!nk and Taylor Swift.

Favorite Country Artist: Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts and Taylor Swift.

Favorite Web Celeb: Alicia Keys, Betty White, Jimmy Fallon, Katy Perry and Teri Hatcher.

Favorite Viral Video Star: “Giant Double Rainbow,” “Greyson Chance Paparazzi,” “Madison Square Park Proposal,” “Single Ladies Devastation” and “Tarp Surfing.”

Rachel Weisz And Partner Split

Oscar-winning British actress Rachel Weisz and her director-partner Darren Aronofsky have split after nine years together. Weisz has been romantically linked to James Bond star Daniel Craig recently, according to TMZ.

Robert De Niro Wins Lifetime Achievement Award

Robert De Niro will be given a lifetime achievement award at the Golden Globes. The veteran actor will be given the Cecile B. DeMille award in recognition of his career, which has spanned almost 50 years and more than 70 films. The January 16th ceremony will mark his first Golden Globe, although he has received eight nominations. De Niro’s next film, “Little Fockers,” comes out December 22nd.

 

Johnny Depp To Star In Burton’s ‘Dark Shadows’

Johnny Depp is reuniting with director Tim Burton for a big-screen remake of the gothic vampire TV soap opera “Dark Shadows.” Depp was reportedly obsessed with the show when he was a child. Depp will portray vampire Barnabas Collins, who lives in a Maine manor and is searching for his lost love. The role of Collins was originally played by Jonathan Frid. Seth Grahame-Smith, who wrote the best-selling novels “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” and “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,” has been hired to work on the screenplay. Filming is expected to begin in April.

 

TV Crew Gets Miner Certifications To Shoot ‘Coal’

Ten videographers with Spike TV are now certified apprentice coal miners, ready to head underground and start filming a West Virginia reality show called “Coal.” They completed the same 80-hour training required of all new miners in West Virginia and passed their certification tests Monday. State safety inspector Bill Tucker says they won’t be doing any mining work, but legally they could. Spike said filming at Cobalt Coal’s McDowell County mine could begin in a week or so.

 

Ohio Student Gets Prison For Hacking O’Reilly Site

An Ohio college student who pleaded guilty to hacking into Bill O’Reilly’s website has been sentenced to 30 months in prison. He must also pay the site $40,000. Mitchell Frost pleaded guilty to causing damage to a protected computer system and possessing unauthorized access devices. Authorities say Frost used the University of Akron’s computer network to hack into other networks in 2006 and 2007. Frost also admitted shutting down an Ann Coulter site and a Rudy Giuliani presidential campaign site. Frost also was sentenced to three years of supervised release and must pay $10,000 to the university.

 

Betty White Made Honorary Forest Ranger

Betty White was made an honorary Forest Ranger yesterday by the U.S. Forest Service. White, 88, said that as a young girl she wanted to be a forest ranger, but women weren’t allowed to have the job. The Forest Service presented her with a badge and a ranger’s Stetson hat, which she donned during a ceremony at the Kennedy Center. When Smokey Bear arrived mid-ceremony, White gave him a big hug and later asked to take the Forest Service mascot with her, but she settled for a toy Smokey instead.

 

‘Sexiest Man Alive’ Special

Kim Kardashian will serve as host of a 1-hour ABC special called “25 Years of Sexy: People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive!” The program airs November 17th and features an exclusive on-camera interview with People magazine’s as-yet-unnamed 2010 Sexiest Man Alive. The special goes behind the scenes to reveal for the first time People magazine’s selection process, and features highlights from the iconic issue since its debut in 1985. Past honorees include Johnny Depp, Hugh Jackman, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Brad Pitt and George Clooney.  

 

O’Dell To Take Over For Hart On ‘ET’

Nancy O’Dell says she is “honored” that she was hired to take over the anchor position on “Entertainment Tonight” from Mary Hart. Hart announced last summer that she plans to leave the program in 2011, after 30 years. O’Dell, a longtime co-anchor of “Access Hollywood,” will serve as co-host with Mark Steines after Hart wraps up her tenure on “ET.”

Gene Shalit Leaving ‘Today’

Gene Shalit has critiqued his last movie for the “Today” show. The critic known for his bushy hair and mustache said yesterday that he’s leaving the show after 40 years. The last time his “Critic’s Corner” appeared was in May, when he reviewed “Shrek Forever After.” Shalit is 84.

Travolta And Stewart Among NJ Hall Of Fame Class

John Travolta, Martha Stewart and Tony Bennett are among 30 nominees to the New Jersey Hall of Fame Class of 2011. Rounding out the entertainment category are Michael Douglas, Bruce Willis, Queen Latifah and jazz guitarist John “Bucky” Pizzarelli. New Jersey residents have until January 3rd to vote online at www.NJHallofFame.org for their favorites. The top vote-getters will be inducted next spring.

Kurt Warner Voted Off ‘Dancing With The Stars’

Kurt Warner’s dancing days are over. The “Dancing With The Stars” contestant and Super Bowl champ was eliminated from the show last night. Kurt and his professional partner, Anna Trebunskaya, went into last night’s show one point away from last place. The couple only collected 24 points out of 30 for each dance and when the judges’ scores were combined with viewer votes they didn’t have enough to remain in the competition. Competing in Monday’s semifinal round will be Jennifer Grey, Kyle Massey, Brandy and Bristol Palin.

Kim Basinger Narrating Hope Diamond Special

Kim Basinger will narrate a Smithsonian Channel documentary on the rare blue Hope Diamond, thought to be the world’s most valuable gem. The special marks the 50th anniversary of the diamond’s donation to the National Museum of Natural History by Harry Winston, its last private owner. “Mystery of the Hope Diamond” premieres November 21st. The diamond was discovered in India in the 17th century. Its owners have included King Louis XIV of France and King George IV of England. For many years, the 45-carat diamond was considered cursed, and it glows a fiery red when placed under an ultraviolet light.

Gibson’s Ex Shut Down In Court

Oksana Grigorieva has lost her motion to keep the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department away from her computer in connection with the extortion investigation. The Sheriff’s Department wants full access to Grigorieva’s computer to determine if there’s evidence she tried to extort Mel Gibson. The Sheriff’s Department told the judge they haven’t even begun looking at the material in the computer. Investigators are trying to convert the stuff into a viewable format.

‘PSYCH’ Goes Back To College

USA Network’s hit series “PSYCH” will embark on a 10-city college campus tour starting Monday at The University of Florida in Gainesville. The campuses will be overloaded with “PSYCH”-themed activities, including an advanced sneak peek of the show’s fall season premiere, “Extradition II: The Actual Extradition Part,” which premieres November 10th. “PSYCH” stars James Roday and Dule Hill will be making special appearances at select campuses throughout the tour, and each event will be hosted by a member of the “PSYCH” writing team, as well as creator, writer and executive producer Steve Franks.

MTV Sued By ‘Smelly Old Man’

A man referred to as a “smelly old man” on MTV’s “Rob Dyrdek’s Fantasy Factory” is suing the network over skateboarder Rob Dyrdek’s comments. The man was mocked as Dyrdek and crew members were trying to find out the source of a nasty odor. The man says he never gave permission for MTV to use his image on TV and claims that since the episode aired “friends and relatives began teasing or mocking [him], buying him air freshener.” He’s also upset Dyrdek and his buddies mocked the way he walks, claiming he suffers from “spinal stenosis.” He’s suing for $25,000.

‘The Simpsons’ Are Presbylutherans

“The Simpsons” and their spiritual beliefs are back in the news. The Vatican newspaper had said Bart and Homer had converted to Catholicism, based on an episode from 2005. But the show’s producer, Al Jean, says they’ve “always shown them as a Protestants” going to what the writers call a Presbylutheran church. Jean admits, “Bart and Homer were very interested in Catholicism. They liked the spaghetti dinners, and they liked the confession, where you could just absolve yourself of all your sins.” But, Jean adds, “Homer would have difficulty not eating meat on Friday, not even for an hour.”

New Opening Scene For ‘Avatar’

James Cameron is giving “Avatar” a different opening on the DVD and Blu-ray release of the film. The sequence offers a glimpse of life on crowded, polluted 22nd century Earth, where city dwellers are bombarded with digital ads and wear masks for protection from the foul air. The scene, which had been cut from the movie, shows Jake Sully, played by Sam Worthington, before he’s invited to join the Avatar program on the distant moon Pandora. The DVD and Blu-ray disc will be available beginning November 16th.

U.S. Version Of ‘Top Gear’ On Its Way

Production has started on the U.S. version of the hit British show “Top Gear,” according to the History channel. Comedian and car buff Adam Ferrara, champion rally and drift racer Tanner Foust and racing analyst Rutledge Wood will be the hosts of the American spin-off, which premieres next month. Among the guests lined up for the show, which showcases “an offbeat celebration of automobiles and driving,” are astronaut Buzz Aldrin, actors Tim Allen, Ty Burrell and Dominic Monaghan, skateboarder Tony Hawk, musicians Bret Michaels and Kid Rock, and actress Michelle Rodriguez. The new series will feature a “Stig,” a mystery masked stunt driver that will take each one of the featured cars for a test drive that will set the benchmark time by which each car will be judged.

Stars Line Up For ‘Conan’

Seth Rogen, Tom Hanks, Jon Hamm and Michael Cera are among the celebs booked to appear during the first week of “Conan,” TBS said. Conan O’Brien’s new series debuts November 8th, when Rogen will be interviewed and musician Jack White will perform. Hanks and Jack McBrayer are also set to appear on the following night’s episode, which will feature musical guest Soundgarden. On November 10th, Hamm and Charlyne Yi will be the guests, and Fistful of Mercy will be the musical act. Cera, Julie Bowen and comedian Jon Dore are lined up for the November 11th episode.

Longoria Unhurt In Minor Car Crash

Eva Longoria Parker escaped uninjured from a minor car accident in Hollywood. Wednesday’s collision occurred when another motorist turned left in front of Parker, police said. The accident remains under investigation. The second motorist also was unhurt in the crash, “Access Hollywood” said.

 

Gibson’s Appearance In ‘Hangover 2’ Officially Canned

It’s official, Mel Gibson’s planned cameo in “The Hangover Part II” has been canceled. Warner Bros. and director Todd Phillips say the actor won’t be appearing in the film as a tattoo artist because of his current legal battles with his ex. Filmmakers are worried too much attention will be put on Gibson and not enough on the film.

Tarzan’s Son Dies

Johnny Sheffield, who played the character “Boy” in the “Tarzan” movies of the 1930s and ‘40s, has died. He was 79. Sheffield died Friday of a heart attack at his home in the San Diego suburb of Chula Vista. His wife said he fell off a ladder while pruning a palm tree. Johnny Sheffield beat out more than 300 other youngsters for the role of “Boy” in the 1939 movie “Tarzan Finds a Son!” and went on to co-star with Johnny Wiessmuller in seven more Tarzan films. He later played another jungle boy, Bomba, in a dozen movies, but quit acting after the last one in 1955.

‘Tiger Eyes’ Movie In The Works

Author Judy Blume has written a screenplay with her son Lawrence based on her popular 1981 novel, “Tiger Eyes.” The younger Blume will direct the picture about a teen-age girl trying to start a new life with her mother and brother in New Mexico after her father’s murder in New Jersey. “Gossip Girl” actress Willa Holland will play the female lead, Davey.

Vivino To Lead ‘Conan’ House Band

Jimmy Vivino and the Basic Cable Band have been named the house band for the new “Conan.” The late-night show debuts November 8th on TBS. The Basic Cable Band consists of Scott Healy, Mike Merritt, Mark Pender, Richie “LaBamba” Rosenberg, Jerry Vivino and James Wormworth.” Meanwhile, TBS will switch on a “Live Coco Cam” today at noon. The live view into the Team Coco offices will be up 24 hours a day. Check it out at http://teamcoco.com/live.

VH1, Latifah Team For New Series

VH1 has teamed up with Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit Entertainment on “Single Ladies,” a dramedy film and series about relationships. Co-starring Stacey Dash, LisaRaye McCoy, Charity Shea and DB Woodside, the series will mark VH1’s first foray into the hour-long scripted genre. A “Single Ladies” movie, featuring guest appearances by Lauren London, Eve, Common, Chili and Kim Porter, was shot last summer. The series is set to begin production later this year with executive producer Latifah to make a guest appearance. The movie and series will both premiere in July 2011.

 

Novak Treated For Breast Cancer

Kim Novak’s manager says the actress is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Novak, 77, is best known for her work in the classic films “Pal Joey,” “Bell, Book and Candle” and “Vertigo,” as well as the TV’s “Falcon Crest.” She is now retired from acting and lives in Oregon.

Tom Bosley Dies

Tom Bosley, best known as Mr. C on the long-running television series “Happy Days,” has died. He was 83. Bosley died of heart failure early yesterday at a hospital near his Palm Springs home. Bosley’s agent said he was also battling lung cancer. TV Guide ranked Bosley’s Happy Days character No. 9 on its list of the “50 Greatest TV Dads of All Time” in 2004. The show debuted in 1974 and ran for 11 seasons.

Adrien Brody Sues Over Release Of Thriller Film

Adrien Brody has sued the makers of a thriller film for more than $2 million, claiming he hasn’t been fully paid for the project and the movie is being released in the United States without his permission. The actor sued the makers of “Giallo” in federal court in Los Angeles last Thursday, but an emergency petition to stop the film’s DVD release was denied. Sales of the thriller set in Turin, Italy, began yesterday. “Giallo” was shot in 2008. The judge ruled Brody can still seek an injunction against the film’s sale, but must first notify the filmmakers. Brody claims he is owed $640,000 for starring in the film and that its release is likely to cost him at least $2 million in damages.

Another ‘Real Housewives’ Divorce

There isn’t a lot of love on Bravo’s “Real Housewives of Orange County” lately. Cast member Vicki Gunvalson filed for divorce from her husband Donn Gunvalson on Monday. The two have been married for 16 years and renewed their vows in front of the cameras in 2009. Donn is the insurance agent’s second husband. This marks the second “RHOOC” cast member to file for a divorce this year. Cast member Tamra Barney’s husband Simon filed for divorce in early January.

‘Dragon’ Sequel In The Works

DreamWorks Animation is working on a 3D sequel to “How to Train Your Dragon.” Set for release in 2013, the second chapter in the franchise will again feature the voice talents of Jay Baruchel, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, TJ Miller and Kristen Wiig.

 

Matron At Oprah School Not Guilty Of Abuse

The ex-matron at Oprah Winfrey’s Leadership Academy near Johannesburg, South Africa, was found not guilty yesterday of abusing girls at the school. About 150 South African girls from poor families attend the boarding school, which cost $40 million to build and opened in 2007. Virginia Mokgobo was acquitted of 14 charges related to the alleged sexual and physical abuse of six girls.

‘The Simpson’s’ Opening Sequence Directed By Banksy

Guerilla artist Banksy directed a very alternative version of the famous opening sequence from “The Simpson’s” for Sunday night’s episode, dubbed “MoneyBart.” The themed opening sequence featured Banksy’s name written on some of the famous Springfield landmarks and was inspired by reports the show outsources the bulk of their animation to a company in South Korea. Banksy is an international artist known for his protesting and graffiti work around the world. He has tagged in war zones and other outlandish places. His real identity still remains a secret.

Rhys Ifans Cast As Villain In New ‘Spider-Man’ Flick

Rhys Ifans is playing a bad guy – but just which bad guy remains to be seen. Sony Pictures said Ifans will play the villain in the next “Spider-Man” movie, due out July 3, 2012. Andrew Garfield stars as Peter Parker. Emma Stone will co-star as Gwen Stacy, Spidey’s original love interest.

‘Harry Potter’ Finale Won’t Be In 3D

The first half of the final chapter of the “Harry Potter” saga will not be coming to theaters in 3D after all. Warner Bros. has decided to forgo the 3D treatment for the first part of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” in order to keep the film’s release date on schedule. It is due out November 19th. The final chapter has two parts, however, and it is expected that the second part, due out July 15th, will get the 3D treatment.

Julianne Hough Denies Engagement Rumors

Julianne Hough is denying rumors that she and Ryan Seacrest may get engaged in the near future. In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Hough said, “Well, that’s news to me, and I think it’s news to him.” Although the couple has yet to reveal their status officially, they were spotted vacationing together in Italy this summer.

Minka Kelly Named Esquire’s Sexiest Woman Alive

Esquire has named former “Friday Night Lights” actress Minka Kelly the Sexiest Woman Alive in its November issue. Derek Jeter’s girlfriend turned 30 in June. “I think it’s the most exciting birthday I think I’ve ever had,” Kelly tells the mag. “I’m so excited to be a woman. Done with the twenties.”

‘Jeopardy’ Winner Burglarized

A Massachusetts man who won a tidy sum on “Jeopardy” says his apartment was cleaned out by thieves. Mike Hodel, a 33-year-old waiter from Somerville, told the Boston Herald before his third round that aired yesterday that he and his girlfriend were at Boston’s Fenway Park watching the Red Sox play the Yankees on October 2nd when they learned their apartment had been robbed. Hodel’s “Jeopardy” appearances were taped in August. The shows aired so far reveal he has won more than $20,000.

Courteney Cox, David Arquette Separate

Courteney Cox and David Arquette say they have been separated for some time but still remain committed parents and “best friends.” The actors issued a joint statement yesterday announcing what they call a trial separation. The statement comes after In Touch Weekly reported the pair had split. The couple met on the set of “Scream” in 1996 and married in 1999. They have a 6-year-old daughter. Cox and Arquette are co-starring in the fourth installment of the “Scream” series, due out next year.

‘Napoleon Dynamite’ Headed To TV

“Napoleon Dynamite” is headed for TV. Fox is giving a series order to a project based on the movie, one of two new teen-friendly animated projects by the network. Fox has picked up six episodes of the show, with the original cast from the film on board as voice talent – including John Heder as the title character.

Marisa Miller Joins NFL

Sports Illustrated model Marisa Miller is teaming up with the NFL. Miller has signed on as the spokesperson for the NFL’s 2010-2011 season. Miller will promote the league’s special events, including the October 31st International Series game between the 49ers and Broncos in London, which will air on CBS in the United States. In case you’re wondering, Miller’s favorite team is San Francisco.

Laura Ling To Investigate For E!

Entertainment channel E! has hired Laura Ling, who was detained with a Current TV colleague in North Korea last year, to host the series “E! Investigates” starting December 9th. The show, which takes a look at the hard-news side of pop culture, will feature Ling exploring such topics as teen suicide and the lives of military wives.

O’Donnell Says ‘SNL’ Spoof ‘Really Funny’

A recent ad for Delaware Senate candidate Christine O’Donnell was fun fodder for “Saturday Night Live.” In “SNL’s” spoof of O’Donnell, who was played by Kristen Wiig, the parody was an over the top mocking of O’Donnell’s previous claims that she dabbled in witchcraft, as well as touching on the year of the Salem witch trials. Wiig joked that the state “deserves” a candidate who is not a witch saying, “That’s the kind of candidate Delaware hasn’t had since 1692.” O’Donnell responded with a Twitter posting saying the skit was funny. “I have to admit, her hair looked better than mine,” O’Donnell tweeted.

‘Sesame Street’ Spoofs Old Spice Commercial

The Old Spice commercial that made Isaiah Mustafa a household name has made its way to “Sesame Street.” In a new parody of the viral hit, “Sesame Street’s” Grover urges viewers to “Smell Like a Monster,” in an effort to teach kids the word “on.” The clip features Grover on a boat and, similar to the original commercial, it ends with Grover on a horse – make that a cow.

Stamos Extorters Sentenced

Michigan residents Allison Coss and Scott Sippola were sentenced to four years in prison Friday for attempting to extort money from John Stamos. Coss, who met the actor in Florida in 2004 when she was 17, and Sippola demanded almost $700,000 from Stamos in exchange for embarrassing photos they claimed to have. According to the FBI, the pictures do not exist. The judge refused Stamos’ request for $15,000 to cover attorney fees

Kelsey Grammer’s Girlfriend Suffers Miscarriage

Kelsey Grammer’s girlfriend, Kayte Walsh, 29, had a miscarriage six weeks ago. The couple said they “needed a little time to heal, time to find some solace before we publicly acknowledged our loss.” Grammer was first spotted with Kayte just weeks after his soon-to-be-ex-wife, Camille, filed for divorce in July. This would have been Kelsey’s fifth child. The couple announced the pregnancy in August.

 

Leno Drops By Palin Hometown To Visit Troops

Jay Leno dropped by Sarah Palin’s hometown to help open an Air Force Reserve recruiting office. The host of “The Tonight Show” was in Alaska to perform a show Saturday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. He also helped cut a ribbon for the opening of an Air Force Reserve recruiting office in Wasilla, the home of Palin.

Stan Lee Joins With MTV To Create New Comic Series

MTV is joining forces with Stan Lee’s POW Entertainment to create a new digital comic series called “The Seekers.” “It involves superheroes, it involves a very high-concept plot, it’s a story such as you never have seen before, and it spans the centuries,” Lee said. MTV will hold a contest to find an undiscovered writer and artist to work on the new comic series. The winners will work with Lee and POW to develop the concept and create the series. “The Seekers” will be available for free on the new website www.mtv.com/geek. The site offers comics, horror, sci-fi and gaming news, as well as coverage of comic-book conventions and previews of new comic books, games and movies.

Kardashian ‘OK’ After Bar Fight

Kim Kardashian said she’s “totally fine” after a bar brawl in New York City. The reality TV star was celebrating her sister Khloe’s birthday last night in New York at Juliet Supper Club when a drunken male fan asked if Kim would take a picture with him. But the fan’s girlfriend, who was also drunk, became upset and threw her drink in Kim’s face. Sister Kourtney and her boyfriend, Scott Disick, were also at the bar. Disick was eventually kicked out of the bar after he jumped in to help Kim out. Kim said none of her crew was drinking and they just wanted to have a “fun family night out.”

‘America’s Got Talent’ Auditions Begin

Auditions for the summer 2011 season of “America’s Got Talent” kicked off over weekend in Denver. Future auditions will be held in Los Angeles on October 23rd and 24th, Chicago on November 6th and 7th, and New York on November 14th and 15th. Auditions are also set for Atlanta, Seattle and Houston. Find out more online at www.NBC.com.

Kutcher, Moore Seek Peace In Mideast

Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher are seeking inspiration in the Holy Land to heal their marriage. “Sharing Love & Light while in Israel,” Kutcher tweeted Saturday night, hours after the couple flew out of Los Angeles. “Asking 4 the energy 2 forge bonds with our similarities & find compromise in our differences.” Kutcher took to his Twitter page last month to deny rumors of infidelity. Since then, they have put up a united front, appearing at the Clinton Global Initiative, spending time in Michigan on the set of Moore’s upcoming film, “The Reasonable Bunch,” and stepping out for a movie date in Los Angeles.  

Osmonds Sued By Vegas Show Producer

Donny and Marie Osmond have been sued by a Las Vegas show producer. Chip Lightman claims the siblings forced him to accept a 50% pay decrease or face a breach of contract lawsuit for their show at the Flamingo Hotel. According to the suit, the Osmonds threatened to walk out of their agreement to perform in “The Donnie and Marie Show” until 2012 unless Lightman took the pay cut. Lightman is suing the Osmonds for “unspecified damages for breach of contract, unjust enrichment, fraud and contractual interference.”

 

No More ‘Gay’ ‘Dilemma’

Universal has released a new trailer for Ron Howard’s big-screen comedy, “The Dilemma,” in response to backlash stemming from a joke in the original trailer about electric cars being “gay.” The studio said that the teaser trailer was “not intended to cause anyone discomfort.” The film, which stars Vince Vaughn and Kevin James, is slated to hit theaters on January 14th.

Harper, Dern Divorcing

Musician Ben Harper has filed for divorce from actress Laura Dern, his wife of five years. Citing irreconcilable differences in Friday’s filing, Harper asked the judge to deny Dern spousal support. The filing said the couple separated in January, but people connected with the couple said they were living and traveling together as recently as last week. Harper wants joint legal and physical custody of their two children.  

Jury Gets Case In Anna Nicole Trial

The trial of three people charged with keeping Anna Nicole Smith loaded up on drugs went to the jury on Friday after two months of testimony. Prosecutors ended final arguments, allowing the judge to hand the case to the 12-member jury that will decide the fate of Smith’s companion, Howard K. Stern, and her two doctors, Kristine Eroshevich and Sandeep Kapoor. Jury deliberation begins tomorrow. If convicted, they could be sentenced to more than five years in prison.

Miss USA Stripped Of Title Dies

Leona Gage, who in 1957 was named Miss USA but lost the title the next day when pageant officials found out she was married and a mother of two, has died. She was 71. Gage died Tuesday of heart failure after spending several weeks in the hospital, according to her son.

Hit Nick Show Spawns Hit Food

The creator of the Nickelodeon series “iCarly” said he was shocked at how one of the show’s jokes, spaghetti tacos, became a kids’ cuisine sensation. Dan Schneider said he didn’t foresee spaghetti tacos becoming a sensation, often featured on cooking blogs and parenting sites, when they were first prepared on the show by Spencer, the title character’s brother. “It was just a little joke I came up with for one episode,” Schneider said. “Then it turned into a running joke. And now it’s this thing people actually do.”

Hurt ‘Transformers’ Extra’s Family Sues

The family of an extra injured on the set of “Transformers 3” has filed a lawsuit in Chicago’s Cook County Circuit Court against Paramount Pictures. Gabriela Cedillo was hit in the head by a piece of flying metal during the shooting of the movie last month. She can now only mouth words and is unable to walk, according to her brother, Adolfo Romo. Romo said his sister is undergoing treatment at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, but her prognosis for recovery is unclear. The family is seeking unspecified damages in the lawsuit against the movie studio and Ryerson Inc., a Chicago-based metal distributor.

Lisa Rinna’s New Reality Show

Now that Lisa Rinna has fixed her upper lip, she’s showing off her new kisser in a reality series, “Harry Loves Lisa,” with husband Harry Hamlin. Rinna says her series is more of a family sitcom, done in reality-show style. It premiered last night on TV Land.

‘Glee’ Cast Beats Out Beatles For Billboard Record

The “Glee” cast has surpassed the Beatles for the most appearances on the Billboard Hot 100 chart by a non-solo act. The cast of the hit Fox series has six debuts on the chart this week, giving them a total of 75 songs on the chart to the Beatles’ 71. Elvis Presley still leads overall with 108 songs to chart on the Hot 100, followed by James Brown with 91, then “Glee.” The Beatles are sixth, behind Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin. Lil Wayne, Stevie Wonder and Jay-Z round out the Top 10. The “Glee” cast has sold 2.8 million albums and 11.5 million downloads.

Gordon-Levitt’s Brother Dies

Actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt announced via Twitter his older brother, Dan, died, but he didn’t disclose the cause of his death. The star’s brother was a 36-year-old fire-spinning artist and arts teacher at Flow Temple Arts School in Venice Beach, California. He went by the nickname Burning Dan. The cause of death was unknown at press time, however officials from the L.A. County Coroner’s office told RadarOnline.com that drugs are suspected to have played a role. Coroner’s spokesperson Ed Winter said Gordon-Levitt was pronounced dead on October 4th at 3:58 a.m. in Hollywood. Two friends were with him at the time.

Oksana Won’t Be Talking To Oprah

Mel Gibson’s ex-girlfriend won’t be talking to Oprah after all. Oksana Grigorieva and Gibson just hashed out a joint-custody deal for their daughter, Lucia, in which Gibson has been ordered to pay $20,000 a month in child support. Due to the nature of the proceedings in family court, a judge has put a gag order on the couple, which will keep Oksana off Oprah’s couch. “Neither party in the case should be speaking,” a source told E!

‘Dexter’ Star Sues Over Prop

“Dexter” star Brando Eaton is suing a prop company for an incident on the site while on the show “Miami Medical” last year. Eaton was playing a character who was shocked with a defibrillator, but the “prop” turned out to be the real deal and juiced him up real good. Eaton was rushed to the hospital and alleges he needed “treatment and counseling for the anxiety, flashbacks and apprehension from his incident.” He’s seeking some serious unspecified cash.

Michael Douglas Near End Of Cancer Treatment

Michael Douglas is nearly finished with his eight weeks of chemo and radiation to treat his throat cancer. The actor’s publicist, Allen Burry, said the 65-year-old star has one more treatment this week and “no further treatments are scheduled.” He is expected to be completely recovered within six weeks.

MDA Telethon Getting Shorter

The Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Labor Day Telethon is getting shorter. The group says it plans to shave more than 15 hours off its annual telecast. The 2011 MDA Labor Day Telethon will now be a six-hour, primetime program. Last month’s Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon raised $58.9 million to fund research to find a cure for muscular dystrophy and ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease.

‘Iron Man 2’ Sells More Than 1 Million DVDs In 1 Day

Everyone knew “Iron Man 2” would be the biggest home video seller and renter of the week, but nobody knew just how big. The flick sold more than 1.1 million DVDs in its first day in stores and ended the week just past the 5-million mark. “Iron Man 2” grossed $312 million at U.S. theaters.

Rick Sanchez Fired From CNN

Rick Sanchez was fired from CNN’s “Rick List” on Friday after making comments about Jon Stewart and Jews during a radio interview. Rick also blasted Stephen Colbert and Keith Olbermann. Sanchez said during the interview, “I think to some extent Jon Stewart and [Stephen] Colbert are the same way. I think Jon Stewart’s a bigot.” Sanchez also claimed that CNN is “run by Jews.” Stewart mocked Sanchez over the weekend during his role as host on Comedy Central’s “Night of Too Many Stars.” “If you went on radio and said the Jews control the media...you may want to hold on to your money,” Stewart said. “All he has to do is apologize to us, and we’ll hire him back,” he continued. Jokes about Sanchez continued throughout the show, most notably when David Letterman said he was late because he had been “helping Rick Sanchez clean out his office.”

Hilary Duff’s Hubby Behind On Car Payments

Hilary Duff’s husband, NHL star Mike Comrie, bought a 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 for $165,000 before he wed Duff. According to documents filed in L.A. County Superior Court, the Pittsburgh Penguins star has defaulted on the payments. The finance company claims they tried to repossess the car from Comrie, but he has “refused to allow Plaintiff possession.” The company is looking for him to pay the rest of his contract, which is $103,398.57, plus other costs.

‘Dog The Bounty Hunter’ Hospitalized

Duane “Dog” Chapman, star of “Dog the Bounty Hunter,” was injured while on a bounty hunt, but is believed to be in excellent condition, his wife Beth tweeted yesterday morning. Chapman was taken to the UCLA Medical Center in California Saturday night and treated and released for internal bleeding. “He was admitted for tests for a possible blood clot following an injury he suffered on a bounty hunt,” Beth posted on dogthebountyhunter.com.

ABC’s ‘My Generation’ Dumped After Second Telecast

After just two airings, “My Generation” has become the fall TV season’s second casualty. ABC pulled the plug on the new drama after Thursday’s little-watched episode drew fewer viewers than the premiere a week earlier. Staged in the form of a documentary, “My Generation” focused on a group of young people 10 years out of the high school. The axing followed word last week that Fox had dumped its new drama, “Lone Star,” after only two airings.

Steve Carell To Star In Remake Of ‘Of All The Things’

Steve Carell has signed on to appear in and produce a feature film remake of the 2008 documentary “Of All The Things,” which gives an inside look into the life of songwriter/producer Dennis Lambert. Lambert is best known for bringing songs such as “Rhinestone Cowboy,” “Nightshift” and “We Built This City” into existence.

‘A-Team’ Producer Dies

Stephen J. Cannell, writer-producer of dozens of series including “The Rockford Files,” “The A-Team” and “The Commish,” died at his home in Pasadena Thursday night from complications associated with melanoma. He was 69. During his TV heyday, Cannell was featured on the ID that followed each of his shows. He was seen typing on his Selectric before ripping a sheet of paper from the typewriter carriage, which then morphed into the C-shaped logo of Cannell Entertainment. He was also an occasional actor, most recently with a recurring role on ABC’s “Castle.” Cannell focused on writing in recent years. His 16th novel, “The Prostitute’s Ball,” will be released this month. He was also a producer of the feature film updating “The A-Team,” released earlier this year.

NASA Workers Appear At Casting Call

A NASA spokesman said about 600 people with security clearance at Florida’s Kennedy Space Center showed up at a casting call for “Transformers 3” extras. NASA spokesman Allard Beutel said space center workers received an e-mail recently seeking workers with “badged” security clearance to appear in scenes of the Michael Bay film being shot at the NASA facility. It was not known how many would be selected to appear in the third installment of the blockbuster franchise. The director wanted extras with security access to reduce the vetting process and said having experts as extras would reduce the amount of training required.  

Who Pays Don Johnson ‘Nash’ Money

Don Johnson’s reps say the actor will be paid $51.7 million in “Nash Bridges” money by billionaires Mark Cuban and Todd Wagner and their 2929 Entertainment business. A judge ruled late Thursday that it was Cuban and Wagner’s 2929, along with Rysher Entertainment and investment firm Qualia Capital that should pay the bill for money owed the actor stemming from his partial ownership of “Nash Bridges,” a TV series he co-created. Johnson starred with Cheech Marin in the cop show from 1996 to 2001.

 

Nicole Richie – Novelist

With her second novel in stores now, Nicole Richie is moving away from being famous just for being famous. In addition to her famous father, famous tabloid appearances and a clothing and accessories line, she’s now a novelist. “Priceless” is about a wealthy young woman in New York whose father is busted for embezzling millions of dollars. She moves to New Orleans and creates a new life for herself, making her own decisions for the first time. Richie says she’s been writing since she was a kid. With two kids and a wedding in her future, she says she writes in her downtime.

 

Tony Curtis Dies

As we reported yesterday, Tony Curtis died Wednesday evening at his Las Vegas area home of a cardiac arrest. He was 85. The father of Jamie Lee Curtis appeared in more than 140 movies and TV shows, co-starring with hundreds of famous actors including Marilyn Monroe and Jack Lemmon. Curtis continued acting up until 2008 when his chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ended his career. Curtis had been married six times and is survived by wife Jill and five children.

Anderson Cooper Plots New Daytime Show

CNN’s Anderson Cooper has announced plans to debut a daytime talk show next fall. The “AC 360” host says the as-yet-untitled project will cover popular topics like celebrities, pop culture and social issues in a journalistic style. Cooper will still do his “360” show.

Pratt, Montag Call Off Divorce

Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag are back together. “We are back together trying to make things work,” the pair told People magazine. “Costa Rica really put things in perspective. We do love each other and realized we do want to spend the rest of our lives together,” they added.

David Simon Awarded With Genius Grant

David Simon, creator of “The Wire” and “Treme,” has been awarded the prestigious MacArthur Foundation “genius grant.” The MacArthur grant awards each recipient with $500,000 in “no strings attached” support over the next five years. The purpose is to financially support great minds so that they can pursue projects that might lack financial backing.

Candice Bergen To Write Second Memoir

Candice Bergen will pen a second memoir as a follow-up to her 1984 book, “Knock Wood.” The as-yet-untitled book will cover Bergen’s time on the TV show “Murphy Brown” as well as the death of her husband, director Louis Malle. The book is due out in 2012.

Musical Chairs ‘American Idol’ Style

The new seating arrangement for the judges on “American Idol” is all mixed up. A photo tweeted by Nigel Lythgoe shows Randy Jackson sitting in Simon’s old spot; he was previously at the other end of the table. Jennifer Lopez is sitting in the middle, where Paula Abdul used to be, and Steven Tyler is at the end, where Jackson used to sit.

Auditions Set For Paula Abdul’s Dance Competition Show

Paula Abdul is ready to see what kind of dancing talent is out there. CBS is holding open casting calls for “Live to Dance,” formerly called “Got to Dance.” Auditions will be October 14th in New York and October 28th in Los Angeles. Abdul will serve as coach and mentor to the contestants. The winner gets $500,000. An air date for the show has not yet been announced.

Heidi Klum Leaves Victoria’s Secret

Heidi Klum says she’s done representing Victoria’s Secret after a 13-year association. “All good things have to come to an end,” she said. “I will always love Victoria’s Secret. It has been an absolutely amazing time.” Klum plans to focus on her many other ventures, including “Project Runway” and her multiple clothing lines. Meanwhile, Klum’s husband, singer Seal, debuted a new video this week. The video for “Secret” features Seal and his wife naked.

Paris Hilton’s Boyfriend Cited For Hit-And-Run

Paris Hilton’s boyfriend has been busted for hit-and-run. Paris and Cy Waits were dining at Boa, an upscale steakhouse in West Hollywood, Wednesday night. As they tried to leave in Wait’s Bentley, the paparazzi surrounded the car. Witnesses said Waits tried to escape by “gunning” the engine. He hit a photographer identified only as Carol, knocking her to the ground. Waits asked if Carol was okay. Another paparazzo said yes and told Waits to go. After leaving the scene, Waits took Hilton to her house; he was later given a field sobriety test. The photographer managed to get away with just a cut on her right shin. Waits was detained and then released with a citation and court date.

Michael Bolton Not Getting ‘DWTS’ Apology

Producers of ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” have announced that judge Bruno Tonioli will not be forced to apologize to Michael Bolton after the singer was booted from the show on Tuesday night. After Tonioli called Bolton’s jive the worst he had ever seen, Bolton called the judge “inappropriate and disrespectful.” On “Good Morning America” Wednesday Bolton said, “I think he should apologize publicly and be reprimanded for it.” Michael said he was “disappointed” in the critique – not only for himself, but because his 90-year-old mom was present to witness it. However, “DWTS” producers have stated that they “don’t feel Bruno should be expected to apologize for doing his job.”

Hulk Hogan Settles Lawsuit Over Cereal Ad

Hulk Hogan no longer has a beef with Cocoa Pebbles. The wrestler sued the cereal maker Post Foods in May, claiming his likeness was being used in an ad without his permission. Hulk had a problem with a “Cocoa Smashdown” TV ad featuring a blond-haired wrestler with a championship belt and mustache that resembled Hogan. Hogan’s attorney wouldn’t disclose the terms of the settlement, but says the commercial is no longer being aired and the lawsuit has been dismissed.

Jimmy Johnson Voted Off ‘Survivor’

Jimmy Johnson was voted off “Survivor: Nicaragua” last night. The 67-year-old former coach of the Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins was the third person voted off the 21st edition of the CBS reality show. Johnson, the oldest member of the Espada tribe, declared himself the weakest castaway at Tribal Council and was unanimously booted by his fellow tribemates. “I had fun, but I was miserable the whole time,” he said. “I still love the game, and it’s been a great adventure. This is the most stressful time I’ve ever gone through in my life, and I’m including Super Bowls and collegiate national championships.”

 

Judge Dismisses Some Charges In Anna Nicole Case

As expected, the judge in the Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case acquitted her boyfriend-lawyer Howard Stern yesterday of two charges of obtaining drugs for her by fraud and deceit, including use of false names. Also dismissed was part of a conspiracy count against Stern and Dr. Sandeep Kapoor, with the judge ruling there was insufficient proof that the two men conspired to obtain controlled drugs through fraud and deceit. The judge allowed the balance of that conspiracy charge to stand and ruled the bulk of the 11-count complaint would go to the jury for verdicts. Attorneys were scheduled for closing arguments on Monday.

Laila Ali Pregnant

Muhammad Ali’s daughter Laila is pregnant. The 32-year-old has been seen in recent years competing on “Dancing With the Stars” and hosting “American Gladiator.” Her child is due in April 2011. It’s baby number two for Ali and her husband since 2007, Curtis Conway. Their son Curtis Jr., who Laila calls CJ, is 2-years-old.

Eric Ripert Slams Gordon Ramsay

After news that a second Gordon Ramsay reality TV chef committed suicide this week, “Top Chef” judge Eric Ripert slammed the Scottish chef via Twitter. “Nothing personal against Gordon Ramsay, he is a poor inspiration for professional chefs on his shows,” Ripert tweeted. “Who performs better scared, insulted?” Joseph Cerniglia, who appeared on Ramsay’s “Kitchen Nightmares,” was found floating in the Hudson River earlier this week after he jumped off the George Washington Bridge. There is no direct link between Cerniglia’s death and Ramsay; Cerniglia had serious debt issues, owing up to $80,000 through his restaurant in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. This wasn’t the first chef with ties to Ramsay to commit suicide. Rachel Brown, who appeared on “Hell’s Kitchen,” shot herself in her Dallas home in 2007.

Comedian Greg Giraldo Dies After Drug Overdose

“Last Comic Standing” judge Greg Giraldo died yesterday, four days after being hospitalized following an accidental overdose of prescription medication. He was 44. The news was first reported by fellow comic and longtime friend Jim Norton, who tweeted a photo of the two and the message, “RIP Buddy.” Giraldo, who recently helped roast David Hasselhoff on Comedy Central, was found unresponsive in his hotel room in East Brunswick, New Jersey.

Friars Club Postpones Tarantino Roast

The Friars Club has postponed tomorrow’s roast of Quentin Tarantino until next month so the director can mourn the death of his longtime film editor. Sally Menke, 56, died hiking in Los Angeles Monday. Although a cause of death has not been determined yet, officials said they are looking into whether heat was a factor. The temperature in Los Angeles reportedly reached 113 degrees Monday. Menke and Tarantino collaborated on “Reservoir Dogs,” “Pulp Fiction” and “Inglourious Basterds.”

Snooki Has A Book Deal

Gallery Books has announced that “Jersey Shore” reality star Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi has a novel called “Shore Thing” scheduled to come out in January. The publisher said the novel will tell of love on the boardwalk, complete with “big hair, dark tans, and fights galore.” Snooki said she has been working on the book for some time and has a collaborator.

‘Star Wars’ Films To Be Rereleased In 3D

Lucasfilm has announced that the “Star Wars” films will be converted into 3D and rereleased theatrically. All six films in the saga, beginning with episode one, “The Phantom Menace,” and concluding with episode six, “Return of the Jedi,” are expected to be released in 2012.

 

Tina Fey To Receive Mark Twain Prize

Tina Fey will be presented with the 13th annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, the Kennedy Center announced yesterday. The “30 Rock” star and former “Saturday Night Live” cast member will pick up the award at a ceremony in the center’s concert hall in Washington on November 9th. The ceremony will be broadcast on PBS November 14th. Fred Armisen, Steve Carell, Jimmy Fallon, Jon Hamm, Jennifer Hudson, Jane Krakowski, Steve Martin, Seth Meyers, Lorne Michaels and Betty White are scheduled to pay tribute to Fey at the event.  

Oprah To Interview Mel’s Ex

Oprah Winfrey’s show beat out “60 Minutes” to be the first U.S. program to interview Mel Gibson’s ex-girlfriend, a source told Us magazine. Russian singer Oksana Grigorieva dated Gibson for about a year and has an infant daughter with him. The couple broke up several months ago and audio clips purported to be of Gibson threatening Grigorieva and using racist language have been leaked on the Internet. Grigorieva also claimed Gibson was physically abusive to her, while Gibson alleges she tried to extort money from him. Winfrey is reportedly set to interview Grigorieva about her relationship with Gibson during the current final season of “Oprah.”

Michael Bolton Wants ‘Dancing’ Apology From Judge

Michael Bolton is demanding an apology from “Dancing With The Stars” judge Bruno Tonioli for harsh comments he made about the singer on Monday night’s show. Tonioli ripped into Bolton after his performance with dance partner Chelsie Hightower, insisting it was the “worst jive” he had seen in 11 seasons of the program. Bolton was visibly upset, and now he’s demanding an apology for him and Hightower.

Michael Caine Considering Retirement

Famous actor Michael Caine said yesterday he was booked solid with work for the next three years, but after that he may consider calling it quits. In an interview with the BBC, Caine said he’s looking at possible retirement when he turns 80. In the meantime, he’s promoting his upcoming autobiography, “The Elephant to Hollywood.”

Bristol Palin In Hot Water

Bristol Palin’s attorney is defending the 19-year-old’s appearance at an Anchorage bar where her “Dancing With The Stars” partner Mark Ballas performed. The state’s Alcohol and Control Board visited Rumrunners Old Town Bar and grill last week to get copies of raw video shot during the performance. Palin is 19 and could only legally be in the bar if accompanied by a parent, spouse or legal guardian over 21. State law also would allow her to be there if it’s been designated as a bona fide restaurant, and she was there only to eat. Attorney Thomas Van Flein says Palin was with two people over 21, ate food and did not consume any alcohol.

Whoopi Coping With Mother’s Death

Whoopi Goldberg says she channels her grief from her mother’s death last month by staying busy. “The View” co-host attended the New York launch party yesterday for purewow.com, a website with daily tips for women 35 and over. She is an investor. Asked how she’s handling her mother’s death, Goldberg said, “I’m here, but it’s not easy.”

David Bowie’s Son On Shortlist For New ‘Superman’

David Bowie's son Duncan Jones has reportedly been shortlisted to direct the new “Superman” movie. Jones's directorial debut came last year with the sci-fi flick “Moon,” which starred Sam Rockwell. “Inception” director Christopher Nolan is producing the next “Superman” movie and has reportedly included Jones on his shortlist for the role. Brandon Routh, who played the lead role in Superman Returns, is not expected to return for the sequel. Other directors being considered to take the helm include Matt Reeves, Zack Snyder and Tony Scott.

Fox Axes ‘Lone Star’

Fox network says its primetime soap “Lone Star” is being yanked off the air after just two airings. Replacing the little-watched new show is the psychological crime drama “Lie To Me,” which begins its third season next Monday. “Lone Star’s” audience Monday was even smaller than the 4.1 million viewers who had watched its premiere a week earlier. Praised by critics, the show featured newcomer James Wolk as a charismatic Texas con man living a double life with two beautiful women. “Lone Star” is the first casualty of the fall TV season, which is little more than a week old.

TLC Reality Show Under Investigation For Bigamy

A bigamy investigation has been launched into a polygamous family in Lehi, Utah, starring in a reality show that premiered Sunday on TLC. Police said the probe was triggered by the show “Sister Wives,” which features 41-year-old advertising salesman Kody Brown and his four wives, 13 children and three stepchildren. Brown is only legally married to Meri but also calls three other women his wives: Janelle, Christine and Robyn. Although it is rarely prosecuted, bigamy is a third-degree felony in Utah, punishable by a prison term of up to five years. Under the law, a person can be found guilty of bigamy through cohabitation, not just legal marriage contracts. The family said they were “disappointed” over the investigation, but they were aware of the risks.

Three ‘Deadliest Catch’ Captains Quit

Sig Hansen and brothers Johnathan and Andy Hillstrand are leaving the hit reality series “Deadliest Catch” after being sued for breach-of-contract by the Discovery Channel. The network is suing the two brothers for $3 million for failing to complete work for a spin-off show called “Hillstranded.” “We have been through a lot over the past year and unfortunately, given the current situation with Discovery, we are unable to continue participating in ‘Deadliest Catch,’” the three crab fishermen said in a statement. Production on season seven of “Deadliest Catch” is scheduled to start early next month, the beginning of crab season. The show’s sixth season was rocked by the death of Captain Phil Harris.

Lohan’s Legal Team Want Tanning Lawsuit Dismissed

Lindsay Lohan’s legal team has asked a Florida judge to dismiss charges alleging she stole information from a spray tan company. Lohan’s lawyers denied claims by White Wave International Labs that Lorit – a company for whom Lohan is a spokeswoman – had taken its “secret formula” for their product, Sevin Nyne. “Although I have been a spokesperson for Lorit, LLC, and its Sevin Nyne product, I had no involvement in where or how the Sevin Nyne product is marketed and sold or in the marketing strategy for the product,” Lohan said in a statement.

‘Kill Bill’ Editor Dies

The Los Angeles County coroner’s office is looking into whether heat had a role in the death of film editor Sally Menke, whose body was found early yesterday at the bottom of a ravine by searchers in Beachwood Canyon. Her Labrador retriever was found alive and sitting beside her. Friends had contacted authorities when Menke failed to return home Monday after a hiking trip. Menke, 56, worked on the Quentin Tarantino movies “Pulp Fiction,” “Kill Bill” and “Jackie Brown.”

Lindsay Lohan Enters Rehab Again

Lindsay Lohan reportedly checked herself into an undisclosed, live-in drug treatment facility in Southern California yesterday. The 24-year-old actress has been battling an addiction to drugs and alcohol for several years. She has repeatedly gone to rehab, then suffered relapses, and has been in and out of jail for violating her probation in a 2007 DUI conviction. She is expected to remain in rehab until her next court hearing on October 22nd.

Rogen Engaged

Seth Rogen has reportedly proposed to his longtime girlfriend, writer/actress Lauren Miller. The couple began dating in 2004.

‘Bueller’ Actor Pleads Guilty In Sex Offender Case

The actor who played the principal in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” will serve three years of probation after pleading guilty to failing to update his sex offender registry info. A Los Angeles District Attorney’s spokeswoman said Jeffrey Jones entered the plea yesterday to a felony charge of failing to update his registry information in June. Jones’ registration was required because he pleaded no contest in 2003 to employing a 14-year-old boy to pose for sexually explicit photos. The 64-year-old actor is also required to perform 250 hours of community service.

‘DWTS’ Clears Up Boo-Gate Then Boots Bolton

Michael Bolton was voted off “Dancing With The Stars” last night after performing what Judge Bruno Tonioli described as the worst jive in the show’s history on Monday. Bolton was in last place, earning 12 points out of 30 for his “Hound Dog”-themed jive with professional partner Chelsie Hightower. Last night’s episode also set out to prove that it was the judges, not audience member Sarah Palin, who was targeted with boos during Monday’s show. Just before host Tom Bergeron sat down to do a brief on-air interview with Palin, loud boos were heard off-camera. Several media outlets reported that the disapproval was directed at Palin. But producers said they were in response to the score of three eights the judges had given to first-place couple Jennifer Grey and Derek Hough. Co-host Brooke Burke introduced a clip from Monday’s episode that showed the judges bantering with the audience and defending their scores as the crowd booed. Then Bergeron introduced Palin. Returning to dance Monday will be Grey, Kyle Massey, Florence Henderson, Brandy, Kurt Warner, Rick Fox, Margaret Cho, Audrina Patridge, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino and Bristol Palin.

Wells, Gray To Appear On Syfy Reality Show

Dawn Wells, Richard Hatch, Erin Gray and Stan Lee will appear in the new Syfy reality series “Hollywood Treasure.” The show premieres October 28th with two back-to-back, half-hour episodes. The weekly reality series “delves into the intricate world of show-biz and pop-culture memorabilia collecting, including science-fiction and fantasy props and costumes,” Syfy said. The series follows Joe Maddalena – owner of Profiles in History – as he and his team “travel the globe searching for the most compelling, rare, and sought-after Hollywood memorabilia.” Syfy added.

Mel Gibson Allocated Joint Custody

An agreement between Mel Gibson and Oksana Grigorieva on May 16th that grants Gibson joint custody of the couple’s daughter, Lucia, has been uncovered. The agreement, which Grigorieva signed and later claimed not to understand in its entirety, allows Gibson to have full joint legal and physical custody of their daughter, including unsupervised contact. The agreement also gives Gibson 50/50 custody of Lucia when she turns three. According to TMZ, Grigorieva disavowed the document shortly after signing it.

‘Raising Sextuplets’ Couple Separates

“Raising Sextuplets” stars Bryan and Jennifer Masche have filed for legal separation, according to court documents. Jennifer filed the petition at the Yavapi County Superior Court in Arizona on September 17th – about three weeks after Bryan was charged with resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and threatening domestic violence during a family gathering. The couple, who chronicle raising their 3-year-old sextuplets on the WE cable network, has admitted to having marital issues. “We have totally brutal fights,” Jenny once told People magazine. They wed in January 2004. Bryan proposed on television during an Arizona Diamondbacks baseball game in 2003.

Reality Star’s Body Found In Hudson River

The body of a man who was once featured on Gordon Ramsay’s “Kitchen Nightmares” reality show was found floating in New York City’s Hudson River on Friday. Joseph Cerniglia was pulled from the water around West 145th street at 3 p.m. Cerniglia owned Campania, a restaurant in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. The cause of death is still under investigation, but police have said they do not suspect foul play. Officials responded to a 911 call of a body floating in the water Friday, not long after another caller reported seeing a man jump from the George Washington Bridge.

Weinberg Won’t Be Moving To ‘Conan’

Conan O’Brien confirmed yesterday that his longtime bandleader, Max Weinberg, would not join him on his TBS show, “Conan,” this November. “Max has been a huge part of my life for the past 17 years and he is an incredible bandleader and musician. I hope he can find time to stop by the new show, sit in with the band, and pretend to find my monologue funny,” O’Brien said. A rep for O’Brien says it was a mutual decision for Weinberg to leave. Jerry Vivino, a longtime guitarist and keyboard player, will replace Weinberg. Vivino said Weinberg – who has been a member of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band since the 1970s – will focus on his other gigs.

‘Titanic’s’ Gloria Stuart Dies At 100

Gloria Stuart, the 1930’s actress who gained an Oscar nomination after 60 years in show business for her role as the spunky survivor in “Titanic,” has died. She was 100. Stuart died in her sleep Sunday night at her Los Angeles home. She was diagnosed with lung cancer several years ago, according to her daughter, Sylvia Thompson. Stuart became the oldest Oscar nominee in history when she received a nod at age 87 for her role as “Old Rose” in 1997’s “Titanic.” Stuart starred in more than 40 films in the 1930s – but was best known for her role in “Titanic.

J. K. Rowling Does Tell-All Interview With Oprah

“Harry Potter” author J. K. Rowling will sit down with Oprah Winfrey on Friday to talk about her remarkable life. In an interview that took place in Edinburgh, Scotland, Rowling talks to Winfrey about her journey to becoming one of the most recognizable writers of children’s literature today. Rowling, who rarely does interviews, also shares her thoughts on the possibility of writing another “Harry Potter” book in the future.

‘Sound Of Music’ Cast To Reunite On ‘Oprah’

The entire cast of the 1965 Academy Award-winning movie musical “The Sound of Music” will appear October 29th on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” including Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. Andrews had non-cancerous throat nodules removed in 1997, an operation that initially left her unable to sing, Plummer will talk about his relationship with the film over the decades. The show will include a performance from the singing group The von Trapp Children, which features members of the real von Trapp family. The musical’s score includes the classics “My Favorite Things” and “Do Re Mi.”

Demi Moore Settles Suit

A legal battle between Demi Moore and an Australian magazine has been settled out of court. Moore sued Pacific Magazines, the publisher of New Idea, over photos of her private post-Oscars party in 2008. Terms of the settlement haven’t been revealed.

Giraldo Hospitalized After Drug Overdose

Comedian Greg Giraldo is in critical but stable condition at a New Jersey hospital after suffering an accidental drug overdose. The 44-year-old “Last Comic Standing” judge was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick Saturday after collapsing in a hotel room, according to the New York Post. Unnamed insiders said Giraldo’s overdose of prescription pills was not a suicide attempt.  

George Lopez And Wife To Divorce

George Lopez and his wife Ann are divorcing. The couple has been married for 17 years and has a 15-year-old daughter, Mayan. The couple reportedly split earlier this year. They made headlines in 2005 when Ann saved her husband’s life by giving him one of her kidneys. In May of this year, the National Enquirer said a professional hooker claimed to have done business with George. Lopez never responded to the story.

Palin On Hand For Daughter’s ‘Dancing’ Appearance

Sarah Palin was in the ABC ballroom audience for last night’s “Dancing With The Stars” to cheer on her daughter, whom she called “Bristol the pistol.” Bristol was the night’s final performer, collecting 22 points out of 30 from the judges. Meanwhile, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino survived his first ballroom dance and he says he’s determined to shine on the show. His “Jersey Shore” friends were also in the audience to cheer him on. “The Situation” made his debut last week and landed in a three-way tie for last place with Margaret Cho and David Hasselhoff. But he escaped elimination when Hasselhoff was eliminated. This week, he faced fellow survivors Jennifer Grey, Florence Henderson, Kyle Massey, Rick Fox, Kurt Warner, Brandy, Michael Bolton, Audrina Patridge and Bristol Palin.

Prosecution And Defense Rests In Smith Trial

Prosecution and defense attorneys rested their cases yesterday in the seven-week drug conspiracy trial of Anna Nicole Smith’s lawyer-boyfriend and two physicians charged with providing her with excessive amounts of opiates and sedatives while knowing she was an addict. The judge planned to hear defense motions to dismiss the case before jurors returned for final arguments Thursday. Judge Robert Perry has indicated he plans to throw out some charges before the case goes to the jury. He suggested prosecutors had overreached the evidence when they filed the 11-count indictment. After jurors were dismissed for the day, Perry told lawyers his research showed most of the charges in the complaint actually amounted to low-level misdemeanors, some of which carry only a fine as a possible penalty. Perry said the only felonies charged were three conspiracy counts, two of which he said could be dismissed.