Hollywood Still Whitewashing

There are new questions being raised about the level of diversity in Hollywood. Paramount Pictures is releasing “The Last Airbender” this summer. The film is based on the Nickelodeon cartoon series “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” The original character is Asian but the lead actor in the movie is white, as are most of the major characters. Fans of the original TV series are upset over what is known in the movie and TV business as “whitewashing,” picking white actors to fill main roles instead of people of color. Critics point to examples like the 2008 movie “21,” based on a book inspired by the true-life story of a mostly Asian group of card players. In the film, mostly white actors played the main role. The recent release of “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time” stars Jake Gyllenhaal in the title role instead of an actor with a Middle Eastern background. Veteran film watchers remember Elizabeth Taylor being cast as “Cleopatra.” When Lena Horne died earlier this month, it was pointed out in her obituary that her parts in movie were routinely cut out when those films were shown in the South.

Drugstore Cowboy’ Author Arrested For Robbery

Police in Washington State say the man who wrote “Drugstore Cowboy” has been arrested in another pharmacy robbery. James Fogle was arrested with another man Tuesday night after they allegedly tied up employees at a pharmacy in Redmond, east of Seattle. Fogle will be arraigned today on a charge of first-degree armed robbery. Fogle has spent much of his adult life in prison, which is where he wrote “Drugstore Cowboy.” Filmmaker Gus Van Sant turned the novel into a 1989 film starring Matt Dillon. The work was loosely based on Fogle’s life of robbing pharmacies to feed his addictions. A police spokesman said robbing pharmacies “is probably the only thing he knows.”

Travolta Twin Rumors ‘Totally False’

Don’t believe everything you hear. According to a report by Star Magazine, John Travolta and Kelly Preston – who announced last week that they were expecting a “new addition” to their family – would be welcoming not one, but two, new babies to the family. Not so, a rep for the couple says. “Totally false,” the rep told “Access Hollywood.” “It’s not true. They are not having twins.”

Oprah Winfrey’s Angel Network Charity To Dissolve

As Oprah Winfrey’s talk show comes to an end, her charity, The Angel Network, will also be closing its doors. Oprah’s charity began in 1998 using donations from her viewers. But with the impeding end of the show in 2011, it was decided to shut down the charity too, Angel Network spokeswoman Angela DePaul said. The charity ceased taking donations this week and its Web site said it plans to dissolve as soon as the remaining funds are distributed.

Locklear’s Hit-And-Run Case Rejected

Heather Locklear has been cleared over an alleged hit-and-run incident after officials rejected the case due to a lack of evidence. Locklear was arrested and cited after failing to alert police about a collision with a road sign in Westlake Village, California, last month. Ventura County Sheriff’s Department officials responded to calls of a one-vehicle crash and discovered a car had mounted a curb and knocked over a no parking sign. The investigation led deputies to Locklear’s home nearby and they linked damage to her BMW to the collision. But her lawyer was adamant her client was not behind the wheel at the time of the crash. Locklear is currently serving a three-year probation term after she pleaded no contest to reckless driving following a DUI arrest in 2008.

Sandra Bullock To Attend MTV Movie Awards

Sandra Bullock is set to make her first public appearance since husband Jesse James’ infidelity scandal made headlines. While she has remained under the radar, raising her newly-adopted son, Louis, she plans to hit the red carpet on June 6th for the MTV Movie Awards. Bullock has been named the recipient of the MTV Generation Award “for her riveting and diverse contributions to the film industry.”

Jesse James Says Being An Abused Child Caused Cheating

Jesse James claimed in his “Nightline” interview that his dad, Larry, abused him when he was a child, and the abuse turned him into a womanizer and cheater. “I was a terrorized kid,” Jesse said. “I was petrified of my father.” However Larry claims Jesse’s story is a lie. “None of it is true,” Larry said. “My kids were my whole life. I would never ever hurt any one of them. I would have died before I would have hurt them.” Larry claims his son fabricated stories of a tragic childhood in order to boost his tough guy image.

Art Linkletter Dies

Art Linkletter, the Emmy Award-winning TV host, has died. He was 97. “Art Linkletter’s House Party,” one of television’s longest-running variety shows, debuted on radio in 1944 and was seen on CBS from 1952 to 1969. Though it had many features, the best known was the daily interviews with schoolchildren. The show ran from 1952 to 1970. Linkletter’s primetime show “People Are Funny” began on radio in 1942 and ran on TV from 1954 to 1961.

Ellen DeGeneres Starts Record Label

After a season of judging singers on “American Idol,” Ellen DeGeneres is delving deeper into the music business with her own record label. Ellen announced on her show yesterday that she is starting a label called eleveneleven. Her first act will be 12-year-old Greyson Chance, who recently became a sensation on YouTube with his version of Lady Gaga’s “Paparazzi.”

Lee DeWyze New ‘American Idol’

Lee DeWyze is the 2010 “American Idol,” edging out Crystal Bowersox in Season Nine of the show last night. While Bowersox drew all kinds of praise from the judges for her performance on Tuesday, viewers showed their independence and crowned DeWyze the new “American Idol.” Last night’s show also marked the departure of Simon Cowell, a parody by Dane Clark and the return of Paula Abdul.

Details Set For 2010 Miss Universe Pageant

The 2010 Miss Universe Pageant will air live on NBC and Telemundo from Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, organizers said. NBC, producer Donald Trump and Paula M. Shugart, president of the Miss Universe Organization, announced the event has been scheduled for August 23rd. Miss Universe 2009, Venezuela’s Stefania Fernandez, will crown her successor at the conclusion of the 2-hour telecast. 

Dodgers Sue Jon Lovitz

Funnyman Jon Lovitz was sued by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday for allegedly failing to pay the hefty ticket price for three premium seats at Dodger Stadium. According to the lawsuit, Lovitz owes the ball club $95,400 for the seats, which are located in the VIP-friendly “Dugout Club” near home plate. He is accused of breaking a 2008 contract to reserve the seats for all games during the 2008-2010 seasons.

Swayze’s Widow Signs On As TV Patient Advocate

Patrick Swayze’s widow has signed up to help the seriously and terminally-ill as part of a regular TV spot. Lisa Niemi, who nursed her husband through his final days as he battled pancreatic cancer, has been added to the Lifechangers team on “Extra.” Her first assignment was to help a young woman fighting the blood disease MDS, advising her of the questions to ask doctors to make sure she received the best care available. Niemi urges the sick to prepare their questions in advance, take notes during doctor visits and be vocal about any changes.

Tina Fey To Get Mark Twain Prize

“30 Rock” and “Saturday Night Live” funnywoman Tina Fey will receive the annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor – one of nation’s highest honors in the world of comedy, the Kennedy Center said yesterday. Fey, whose popularity soared in 2008 with her impersonations of Republican vice-presidential hopeful Sarah Palin, will be presented the award on November 13th. Fey is only the third woman to have won the honor in 13 years; Lily Tomlin and Whoopi Goldberg have also won. Fey will also be the youngest honoree, having just turned 40. Previous winners include Bill Cosby, George Carlin, Steve Martin and Neil Simon, among others.

Bret Michaels Wants To Return To Stage

Bret Michaels is taking baby steps toward getting back on stage. Michaels tells NBC’s “Today” show he’ll do a concert this weekend in Biloxi, Mississippi, and see how it goes, even though he’s “not 100 percent.” Michaels’ medical problems in the last month have included an emergency appendectomy, brain hemorrhage, mini-stroke and the discovery of a hole in his heart. His doctor said it wasn’t a great idea to go to the finale of “Celebrity Apprentice,” but Bret did and won.

Dennis Quaid Sues Drug Company

Dennis Quaid has sued Baxter Healthcare, the drug company that makes the blood thinner heparin, over the overdoses that nearly killed his newborn twins three years ago. Quaid says the drug mix-up at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles happened because of the packaging. His lawsuit says heparin and a lower-dose version called Hep-Lock are both packaged in similar blue vials with small print on the labels, making it difficult to tell the doses apart. Quaid says the drug maker should have recalled the heparin vials because the company knew infants had died because of similar errors. Quaid and his wife settled with the hospital for $500,000 in June 2009.

Gloria Stuart Of ‘Titanic’ To Be Honored

Gloria Stuart, who played Old Rose in “Titanic,” is about to turn 100. She’ll be honored by the Screen Actors Guild for her years of service to the union. She was one of the first actors to join in 1933. She served for several years on SAG’s national board of directors. She’s the only surviving board member from the 1930s. Stuart is being honored on June 19th. She’ll turn 100 on the Fourth of July.

James Still Loves Bullock

Jesse James says he still loves his estranged wife, Sandra Bullock, who filed for divorce from him last month after nearly five years of marriage. James made the comment on “Nightline” about two months after Bullock left him after learning he was unfaithful to her. “I still really love her and care about her,” he said. “I knew I would get caught eventually and I think I wanted to get caught.” James also confessed he knows Bullock will go through with the divorce. The actress has been keeping a low profile since allegations became public in March that James cheated on her with several different women. The couple quietly adopted an infant named Louis in January. Bullock discussed the adoption for the first time last month when she confirmed she had filed for divorce.  

‘Amityville Horror’ House For Sale

The New York house that inspired “The Amityville Horror” is back on the market for $1.15 million. The home, where Ronald DeFeo Jr. killed six family members in 1974, was supposedly haunted when George and Kathleen Lutz lived there for 28 days. It was listed Monday in Amityville by Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty. The events at the home inspired Jay Anson’s 1977 book, “The Amityville Horror: A True Story,” which in turn became the basis for several films.

No More Reality TV For Detroit Police

Detroit Mayor Dave Bing has canceled a reality show deal made by the city’s police chief and banned reality TV camera crews from police raids. The issue became public when a crew from “The First 48” accompanied police on a raid that led to a 7-year-old girl being shot and killed. A spokeswoman for the mayor said the presence of cameras for reality TV “gives the wrong appearance” because the public might think officers are behaving more aggressively. She said crews from local news outlets would still be allowed to accompany police. Police Chief Warren Evans, brought in by Bing to crack down on violent crime in the city, signed a renewal of the city’s contract with “The First 48” before the raid. The original contract dates back six years.

‘American Idol’ Winner Picked Tonight

Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze did their final performance last night. The winner, based on viewer votes, will be announced tonight in a two-hour finale. (Who do you think will win?)

Scherzinger Wins ‘Dancing With The Stars’

Nicole Scherzinger and dance partner Derek Hough won the 10th season of ABC’s “Dancing With The Stars” last night, beating Olympic gold medalist Evan Lysacek. Scherzinger did a jive as her final dance that earned a perfect score of 30. Lysacek scored 28 points in his final dance. ESPN sportscaster Erin Andrews came in third and was eliminated halfway through the two-hour season closer.

13.5 Million Watched ‘Lost’ Finale

Sunday night’s series finale of “Lost” was watched by 13.5 million viewers, ABC said yesterday. The show ended its six-season run with a 2 1/2-hour installment that resolved many of its mind-boggling storylines and reunited numerous long-lost loves. ABC estimates 20.5 million unique viewers watched the series finale of “Lost” during its broadcast. “Jimmy Kimmel Live: Aloha to Lost,” which ran after the finale and local newscasts, was seen by 4.88 million people, the network said.

Jesse James Auctioning Off Personal Items

Jesse James is auctioning off some of his personal things on eBay. James is selling vintage bicycles, including two rare, pre-World War rides. He is also selling motorcycle parts and West Coast Choppers items. Tune in to ABC’s “Nightline” tonight as James gives his first interview since splitting with Sandra Bullock.

‘Glee’ Signs On For Third Season

Fox’s hit show “Glee” has been picked up for a third season, according to Entertainment Weekly. The show has had an incredibly successful first season, averaging over 13 million viewers each week, and had already earned a second season. “Glee” has also spawned a live tour and four albums. The season finale of “Glee” airs June 8th.

Michaels To Undergo Heart Surgery Later This Year

Bret Michaels will undergo surgery later this year to repair his heart. The Poison rocker and “Celebrity Apprentice” winner was diagnosed with a hole in his heart after suffering a mild stroke last week. In the past month, Bret has had an emergency appendectomy and brain hemorrhage – on top of last week’s stroke.

Rip Torn Cleared Of DUI Charge

A Connecticut judge has dismissed a drunken-driving charge against Rip Torn after the actor completed a court-ordered alcohol education program. Torn was arrested in December 2008 near his home in Salisbury. He was stopped while driving in the breakdown lane with a Christmas tree tied atop his Subaru. Another case is pending against the 79-year-old: charges that he broke into a bank in January while intoxicated and armed. He returns to court today in that case.

Lohan Ordered To Wear Alcohol Monitoring Bracelet

A Los Angeles judge has ordered Lindsay Lohan to wear an alcohol-monitoring bracelet yesterday. Lohan, 23, was also ordered to submit to random drug testing once a week and to attend the remainder of her alcohol-education classes at a rate of one per week. Lohan’s attorney told Superior Court Judge Marsha Revel that Lohan was planning to travel to Texas to film a movie, but the judge suggested the actress may have to delay the project. Lindsay’s lawyer, Shawn Chapman Holley, began to object to the conditions, but when the judge said she would state out loud all the reasons why the conditions were appropriate he backed off.

‘Twilight’ Convention

All three of the main stars from the “Twilight” saga will attend a “Twilight” fan convention for the first time. Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner will be at the Los Angeles “Eclipse” event running June 11-13. While other stars will be there, those three, who play Edward, Bella and Jacob, will only appear early Saturday evening at a panel discussion. The third movie in the saga, “Eclipse,” will be in theaters on June 30th. Details about the convention can be found at www.CreationEnt.com.

Brittany Murphy’s Husband Found Dead

Brittany Murphy’s husband was found dead by his mother-in-law late Sunday at the Los Angeles home he shared with the late actress. Simon Monjack’s death was reported as a possible heart attack and appeared to be from natural causes, Los Angeles County Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter said. Monjack was 39. There were no signs of foul play or physical injury to his body. Prescription medications belonging to Monjack were found in his bedroom, but there was no immediate indication that he overdosed. An autopsy was planned for today, but a final cause of death would await results of planned toxicology tests. Brittany Murphy died December 20th.

Bill Clinton’s Motorcade In Minor Car Accident

A motorcade that included Bill Clinton was involved in a minor car accident as the former president was on his way to deliver a speech at Yale University yesterday afternoon, according to Connecticut State Police. Three cars from Clinton’s motorcade and two other vehicles were involved in the accident. One person was taken to a nearby hospital with a minor injury. Initial reports said Clinton’s van was rear-ended, but police said that the former president’s vehicle was not struck. Clinton was still able to give his speech to Yale seniors.

‘Survivor’ Producer Wanted For Questioning Returns To U.S.

A former “Survivor” producer wanted for questioning in Mexico about his wife’s death has returned to the United States. Bruce Beresford-Redman returned to L.A. “to be with his children and attend to family and personal matters,” according to attorney Richard Hirsch. Hirsch said Beresford-Redman, who has been charged with a crime, had no legal obligation to remain in Mexico while authorities investigate the death of his wife, Monica, whose body was found in a sewer at the Moon Palace Resort in Cancun in April. Beresford-Redman’s passport had been confiscated and police in Mexico had described him as a suspect. Mexican officials previously said he was barred from leaving the country. However, a Mexican attorney general said yesterday there was no court order barring Beresford-Redman from leaving Mexico, although prosecutors had taken his passport.

Lindsay Lohan Back In U.S., Faces Hearing

Lindsay Lohan has returned to the United States following a trip to Cannes, France, and now she’s in all kinds of trouble. The 23-year-old actress missed a scheduled probation progress report hearing last Thursday, claiming her passport had been stolen. The result was a warrant being issued for her arrest. After Lohan arrived in Los Angeles on Saturday, she posted $100,000 bail and Beverly Hills Judge Marsha Revel lifted the warrant. A new hearing was scheduled for today. It is likely she will be ordered to wear an alcohol-monitoring bracelet.  

Jesse James Says Everyone Hates Him

Jesse James says he feels like the most hated man in the world since news broke that he cheated on his wife, Sandra Bullock. Bullock filed for divorce last month after nearly five years of marriage. James gave his first interview since he and Bullock split to ABC’s “Nightline” program. The interview airs tomorrow. Asked if he thinks he’s the most hated man in the United States, James told “Nightline,” “I think the most hated man in the world now.” He added, “I took a pretty amazing life and marriage and threw it away.”

Paula May Return For ‘Idol’ Finale

Paula Abdul will return for the season finale of “American Idol,” sources tell People Magazine. The Season Nine finale is set to air Wednesday and will include the last appearance by Simon Cowell before he leaves for “X Factor” in 2011. Christina Aguilera is also expected to perform on the show, which will feature competition between Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze. Abdul was replaced as a judge by Ellen DeGeneres this season.  

Fallon To Watch His Show With Fans Online

Jimmy Fallon plans to watch previously taped episodes of his own late-night chat show and interact with fans live online this week. Fallon is scheduled to kick off “Watch Jimmy with Jimmy Week” tonight. Fallon is the first late-night talk-show host to participate in a shared viewing experience on Ustream. Fans can go to www.latenightwithjimmyfallon.com to interact with Fallon via a live chat and video stream, where he will answer questions and give a unique, behind-the-scenes glimpse of “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.”

Miss America Back On Network TV

The Miss America Pageant is returning to network television in time for its 90th birthday. The beauty pageant has signed a three-year deal with ABC, with plans to air next year’s competition live on January 15th. Miss America has not aired on network TV since 2004, when ABC dropped the pageant after record-low ratings. Since then, it has aired on cable, twice on CMT and three times on TLC. This year’s pageant, won by Miss Virginia Caressa Cameron, topped cable TV excluding movies with 4.5 million viewers the night it aired. That was about 1 million more viewers for the pageant than in 2009.

Bret Michaels Wins ‘Celebrity Apprentice’

Bret Michaels made it to the finish line last night on the finale of “Celebrity Apprentice,” despite a life-threatening illness, and was rewarded with the win and $250,000 for charity. Donald Trump told Michaels, “You’ve done an amazing job in every single way” before announcing his choice on the live show. The other finalist, Holly Robinson Peete, has been “amazing” Trump said before announcing his decision: “Holly, I have to tell you, we all love you. And Brett, I have to tell you – ‘You’re hired!’”

‘Lost’ Is Gone

The premiere of “Lost” ended memorably with Charlie’s plaintive question to his fellow island castaways. “Guys, where ARE we?” Six seasons and 120 episodes later, many viewers might be wondering the same thing as the “Lost” finale brought the series to a close last night. The Internet was buzzing with questions, comments, commendation and complaints even before the show ended last night. Led by a two-hour retrospective, the show was capped by a two-and-one-half-hour-long finale. But were all of the questions answered on last night’s show? That depends on who you ask.

Picasso, Matisse Works Stolen From Museum

Five early 20th century paintings collectively valued at more than $600 million were stolen from the Paris Museum of Modern Art early Thursday. The works were Picasso’s “Dove with Green Peas,” Henri Matisse’s “Pastoral,” Georges Braque’s “Olive Tree Near Estaque,” Amedeo Modigliani’s “Lady with Fan” and Fernand Leger’s “Still Life with Chandelier.” The museum was closed to visitors as police investigated the heist, which was described as the biggest in Paris in recent years.

CBS Catches $#*! For New Series Title

The Parents Television Council is at it again. The group is threatening CBS affiliates with challenges to their broadcast licenses if they air the network’s new comedy with a title that alludes to an obscenity. The PTC criticized CBS for picking up a comedy series called “$#*! My Dad Says” that is based on a popular Twitter feed. Instead of the word, the CBS title uses a series of symbols, but pronounces it “bleep.” The group says it will challenge the broadcast license of any CBS affiliate that airs the series or promotions for it before 10 p.m. CBS has scheduled the comedy for Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. It stars William Shatner as the father whose politically incorrect musings are put out on Twitter by his son.

MTV Picks Up ‘Teen Wolf’ Series

MTV is capitalizing on the love for all things vampire and werewolf thanks to “Twilight” by picking up the new series “Teen Wolf,” based on the 1980’s comedies which starred Michael J. Fox and Jason Bateman. The lead character is set to be played by Tyler Posey.

Bret Michaels Hospitalized Again

Bret Michaels has suffered a serious setback in his recovery from a brain hemorrhage, experiencing a small “warning stroke” that sent him to the hospital, where tests then revealed he also has a hole in his heart. Both conditions are treatable and are not believed to be connected to his subarachnoid hemorrhage. But his doctor questioned whether Michaels can return as hoped for Sunday’s finale of “Celebrity Apprentice” or to a concert on May 28th. Michaels was readmitted to the hospital this week after experiencing numbness on the left side of his body.

New ‘Hawaii Five-O’

The new version of “Hawaii Five-O” stars Australian Alex O’Loughlin as Detective Steve McGarrett. O’Loughlin says “it’s massive” to be given a shot to fill the late Jack Lord’s shoes. Scott Caan will play Danno Williams. Daniel Dae Kim will move from “Lost” to playing Detective Chin Ho Kelly. The series premieres on CBS in the fall. CBS also announced the new show, “The Defenders,” a comedic drama starring Jim Belushi and Jerry O’Connell as colorful Las Vegas defense attorneys, as well as the drama “Blue Bloods” about a family of New York cops starring Tom Selleck and Donnie Wahlberg.

New Loony Tunes Coming

Warner Bros. is bringing Looney Tunes characters back for today’s kids. New CG-versions of Road Runner and Wile. E. Coyote are destined for theaters in a series of 3D animated shorts. The first, “Coyote Falls,” will play before the upcoming 3D sequel “Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore,” in theaters July 30th. And a new, 26-episode series starring some of the most beloved characters is headed for Cartoon Network for the fall season.” The Looney Tunes Show” has Daffy Duck and Bugs Bunny as roommates living next door to Porky Pig, Marvin the Martian, Sylvester, Tweety Bird and Yosemite Sam.

Jessie James Doesn’t Want To Be Called ‘Nazi’

Jesse James has asked a judge to disqualify any references to his personal life in an upcoming court case. James is embroiled in a legal battle with a fashion firm that has accused him of pulling out of a contract to produce a line of garments inspired by his work wear. The case is about to go to trial and James wants the matter to be resolved without any mention of his sexual behavior, his soon-to-be ex-wife Sandra Bullock, or one of his alleged mistress, Michelle “Bombshell” McGee. He is also seeking to ban the word “Nazi” and the phrase “most hated man in America,” as well as the terms monster, skinhead, racist, homophobe, prostitute, cheating and cheater.

Jesse James To Be On ‘Nightline’

ABC says Jesse James will explain himself on “Nightline” on Tuesday. James was interviewed by Vicki Mabrey a couple of days ago about why he threw away his marriage to Sandra Bullock. ABC says Mabrey also asked James what he was in rehab for and what role he’ll play in the life of the baby Bullock adopted. It looks like the interview was done on James’ home turf, possibly at his motorcycle shop. A photo released by ABC shows James and Mabrey facing each other on chairs with a motorcycle in the room.

Bertinelli Engaged

Valerie Bertinelli is engaged to businessman Tom Vitale, her boyfriend of six years. “I’ve never felt more beautiful at any weight than when Tom looks at me. He loved me no matter what. In his way, he’s teaching me to love myself just as I am,” Bertinelli told AARP The Magazine for its July/August issue. The 50-year-old former star of “One Day at a Time” and recent Jenny Craig spokeswoman will soon be seen on the new sitcom “Hot in Cleveland.”

Whitaker To Star In ‘Criminal Minds’ Spin-Off

Forest Whitaker has signed on to star in an as-yet-untitled spin-off of “Criminal Minds,” CBS said. The actor previously had a recurring role on the TV police drama “The Shield.” The new show will debut in the middle of the 2010-11 season and will co-star Matt Ryan, Michael Kelly and Beau Garrett.

Bench Warrant Issued, Withdrawn For Lindsay Lohan

A Los Angeles judge issued a bench warrant for Lindsay Lohan yesterday after the actress failed to attend a mandatory court hearing. Lohan’s lawyer said Wednesday the actress would be unable to make the court date because she had lost her U.S. passport while attending France’s Cannes Film Festival. The hearing was set up to see if Lohan has been complying with the terms of her probation for a 2007 drunken driving conviction. The judge said she believed Lohan’s excuse was part of her substance-abuse problem, adding it was no justification for missing court. According to TMZ, Lohan won’t be arrested when she returns to the U.S. because she has already posted bail, which was set at $100,000, and the arrest warrant was recalled. Lohan will reportedly be back in court on Monday.

Bret Michaels Increasing Rehab To Twice A Day

Bret Michaels says he’s increasing his rehabilitation to twice a day after suffering a brain hemorrhage last month. Michaels said on yesterday’s episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” that he’s still having trouble moving his lower extremities and has neck stiffness but that “each day gets better.” Michaels, 47, was recently released from a Phoenix hospital. He was admitted April 22nd complaining of a severe headache. The Poison frontman and “Celebrity Apprentice” finalist says he still has headaches but that they’re to be expected. Michaels told Winfrey that after the hemorrhage he asked God “to let me live through this.”

‘Heroes’ Hit With $60 Million Lawsuit

TV executives for “Heroes” are facing a $60 million lawsuit from a comic book artist who claims they copied one of his storylines. Jason Barnes has filed the multi-million dollar claim against NBC over the inclusion of a traveling carnival plot in the drama, which he claims was copied from his comic story “Jazan Wild’s Carnival Of Souls!” According to the lawsuit, “The settings and the storylines are virtually the same. The main character in both stories leads a carnival of lost souls and outcasts. This dark character seeks to make his carnival more powerful by recruiting new members with special abilities.”

Stolen Passport May Land Lindsay Lohan In Jail

Lindsay Lohan will be a no-show for her important probation hearing in Los Angeles this morning after losing her passport in Cannes, France. Lohan must appear before Judge Marsha Revel at the Beverly Hills Courthouse amid reports she has failed to complete court-ordered alcohol education classes stemming from a 2007 arrest. The judge confirmed she will issue a warrant for Lohan’s arrest if she fails to appear but Lohan is stranded in Europe after her papers were stolen at the Cannes Film Festival. Lohan has an appointment at the U.S. Embassy this morning to help her replace her passport but the meeting will come too late for her to make it back in time for her court hearing.

Megan Fox Dumped From ‘Transformers 3’

Megan Fox has reportedly been dropped from the third “Transformers” movie after publicly criticizing moviemaker Michael Bay. Fox will not be playing Shia LaBeouf’s love interest in the second sequel, according to Paramount Pictures insiders. The news comes after Fox slammed director Bay and said he was a “nightmare to work for” and “hopelessly awkward” in 2009 interviews. Fox claims it was her decision not to return for the third movie.

Terrence Howard’s Secret Wedding

Terrence Howard married commercial production worker Michelle Ghent-Howard in Los Angeles last January, according to Us Magazine. The couple kept the news to themselves for months but Howard went public with his marital status at the Cannes Film Festival in France earlier this week when he revealed he was at the event with “my wife.” The actor was previously married for 13 years to Lori McComma. The parents of three children broke up in 2005.

Murdered Woman’s Husband Gets TV Show

The CW network has just picked up a show partly owned by Bruce Beresford-Redman – the ex-”Survivor” producer whose wife was murdered in Mexico. Beresford-Redman and his partner, Rick Hurvitz, pitched a show to The CW called “Shedding for the Wedding,” a weight-loss reality show featuring couples who are competing to lose weight for their big day. According to TMZ, the casting director used to help sell the show was Joy Pierce – the woman Beresford-Redman allegedly had the affair with at the time his wife was murdered. Hurvitz reportedly ended his partnership with Beresford-Redman after the murder, but their company which sold the show – Mindcrime, Inc. – is still an active corporation.

Meyers Heading Back To Rehab

Jonathan Rhys Meyers’ publicist has confirmed the Irish actor is again seeking treatment for his addiction to alcohol. The actor first entered rehab in April 2007. “He just really wants to get better,” a source close to the actor told People magazine. “This has been an ongoing battle for him.”

Muhammad Ali’s Daughter Marries

Muhammad Ali’s daughter, Jamillah, has married a Chicago lawyer who promotes young boxers in his spare time. Jamillah Ali, 39, married Michael Joyce, 42, last weekend at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Naples, Florida. Muhammad Ali, who has Parkinson’s disease, walked his daughter down the aisle before 140 friends and dozens of onlookers in a ceremony performed by the Rev. George Clements. Jamillah, one of Ali’s nine children, works at the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office. Joyce, the son of former Illinois State Sen. Jeremiah Joyce, is a lawyer and a former prize fighter known as “Irish Mike Joyce” who promotes young boxers through a club at Chicago’s Leo Catholic High School.

‘Smallville’ Done

The CW has confirmed “Smallville’s” upcoming 10th season will be its last. The show stars Tom Welling as a young Clark Kent/Superman. Yesterday’s cancellation news follows months of speculation that the beloved series is set to wrap soon.

Ex-Miss Russia Arrested In New York

Miss Russia 1998 Anna Malova has been charged in New York with criminal possession of narcotics, forgery and criminal impersonation of a physician. A narcotics officer arrested the former Miss World as she left a Manhattan pharmacy. She is accused of stealing a prescription pad from her doctor and writing painkiller prescriptions for herself. Malova, 38, reportedly was a medical doctor in her native Russia, but isn’t licensed to practice medicine in the United States.

‘Stand Up To Cancer’ TV Fundraiser Returns

“Stand Up To Cancer,” a 2008 multichannel TV fundraiser that helped deliver more than $100 million for research, is returning in September. Leading the charge again is film and TV producer Laura Ziskin, who is executive producer of the show and is undergoing treatment for the disease. The hour-long “Stand Up To Cancer,” to be simulcast commercial-free by ABC, CBS and NBC and cable networks and hosted by network news anchors Brian Williams, Katie Couric and Diane Sawyer, will air September 10th. As with the first simulcast, this year’s edition will feature movie, TV and sports stars and musical performers. Find out more at www.standup2cancer.org.

Two SeaWorld Killer Whales Pregnant

Two killer whales at SeaWorld Orlando in Florida are pregnant by the whale that drowned a trainer in February, officials said. Taima, 20, will give birth to her fourth calf late this month or in early June and Katina, 32, is expected to have her sixth calf in October. The father is Tilikum, the 12,000-pound male who grabbed trainer Dawn Brancheau by her hair, pulled her under water and drowned her February 24th. Tilikum, the largest killer whale in captivity, has been linked to three human deaths in 19 years. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has had 26 killer-whale births, beginning with Katina’s first calf in 1985. Tilikum has sired 13 of the calves since SeaWorld acquired him in 1992.  

Lindsay Lohan Gets Good Grades In DUI Class

Lindsay Lohan has never been rude, disrespectful or showed up drunk to her court-mandated alcohol education class, her progress report shows. A three-page document released yesterday by the Los Angeles court system shows that Lohan is in good standing with her DUI class, despite reports that she’s almost certainly facing jail time at a hearing tomorrow for alleged poor attendance. As of May 4th, Lohan’s attended 17 of 26 Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, 19 of 26 group sessions, 24 of 26 interview sessions, and completed all six alcohol education classes.

CBS Canceling ‘Cold Case,’ ‘Ghost Whisperer,’ More

CBS is shaking up its 2010-11 season, canceling “Cold Case,” “Ghost Whisperer” and five other series. According to an insider, other canceled shows include “Numb3rs,” “The New Adventures of Old Christine,” “Gary Unmarried,” “Miami Medical” and “Accidentally on Purpose.” The cancellations will clear shelf space for newcomers, including William Shatner’s first sitcom, a police drama with Tom Selleck, and other shows to be officially announced today by CBS.

Travolta, Preston Expecting!

The new cover of Star reports that John Travolta and Kelly Preston are expecting a child. “Kelly is about three months pregnant,” a source told the magazine. “Both she and John are absolutely over the moon.” The actor confirmed the happy news on his Web site: “It’s impossible to keep a secret...especially one as wonderful as this. We want to be the first to share this great news with everyone that we are expecting a new addition to our family. Love, John, Kelly and Ella.” Travolta and Preston wed in 1991.

Olsen Twins Mix-Up In Airplane Drama

Mary-Kate Olsen was surprised at reports she got caught up in a mid-air drama on Sunday, because it was her twin sister Ashley that was on the plane. Initial reports of the incident stated that Mary-Kate was traveling on a flight from New York to Los Angeles when a blaze broke out at the front of the aircraft, cracking the windshield and forcing the pilots to make an emergency landing in Virginia. However, the twins were a victim of mistaken identity by other passengers – it was actually Ashley Olsen on the plane with her boyfriend Justin Bartha. Ashley was unharmed in the incident.

Emma Caulfield Files For Divorce

Former “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” actress Emma Caulfield has filed for divorce after almost four years of marriage. Caulfield wed Cornelius Grobbelaar in August 2006 and the couple officially split on May 7th. Caulfield has since moved to make the separation official after citing irreconcilable differences in legal papers filed last week at Los Angeles Superior Court.

Bret Michaels’ Busy Schedule

Bret Michaels has many reasons to get well soon. He’ll face off against Holly Robinson Peete on “Celebrity Apprentice” on Sunday’s finale. The series taped months ago, but Sunday’s show will be live and he’s expected to be there. VH1 was planning a new series about Michaels called “Life As I Know It,” focusing on his home life with his two daughters and their mother, who is his on-again, off-again girlfriend, but they halted production while Michaels recovers from a brain hemorrhage. However, VH1 will run a half-hour sneak preview on May 31st. “Life As I Know It” is scheduled to premiere in the fall. Michaels also has a new album called “Custom Built” coming out June 8th.

Fox Tweaks ‘American Idol’ Format

Fans tired of having to sit through an entire hour before finding out who’s kicked off “American Idol” will be pleased to hear this. Starting next year, the results show will be only 30 minutes instead of an hour. Fox says viewers wanted to see more performances during the competition, so the Tuesday show will go from an hour to 90 minutes. Fox still doesn’t have anyone lined up to take over Simon Cowell’s chair, but a spokesman says it is a top priority this summer. He says they need someone with “both musical credibility and an incredible entertainment value.”

Ochocinco Kicked Off ‘Dancing’

Chad Ochocinco and professional partner Cheryl Burke were ousted from “Dancing with the Stars” last night, making them the 100th couple banished from the ballroom during the ABC show’s 10 seasons. Ochocinco came into Tuesday’s results show in last place, with 52 points out of 60 for his two dances. Judges’ scores are combined with viewer votes to determine which couple is eliminated each week. Nicole Scherzinger, Evan Lysacek and Erin Andrews will dance for the show’s mirror ball trophy on Monday. A new “Dancing” champ will be crowned the next day.

Sir Simon?

Simon Cowell is reportedly set to be knighted by Queen Elizabeth next month, joining celebrities including Bono and Paul McCartney. He will reportedly be recognized for his contribution to Britain’s entertainment industry and his humanitarian works, such as arranging the fundraising CD for the Haiti earthquake victims. Meanwhile, the “American Idol” host is scheduled to visit Oprah Winfrey on her show Thursday to say good-bye to the hit FOX reality show before heading to “The X-Factor.”

Miss USA 2010 Winner A Pole Dancer

The first Arab-American to be crowned Miss USA has had some racy photos leaked from an earlier contest where she was the winner of “Stripper 101.” Rima Fakih, also the first Muslim-American Miss USA and the first Miss Michigan, was a contestant in a stripping contest sponsored by a Detroit radio station in 2007. The beauty is shown in several photographs leaked online. A couple of the photographs show Fakih performing on a stripper pole in front of an audience of women in their underwear. The judges, who were strippers, awarded Fakih first prize, which included jewelry, gift cards, adult toys and a stripper pole. Fakih never removed her clothing at the event.

‘Law & Order’ Cancellation Costs New York City

With the cancellation of “Law & Order” now official, New York City’s bank account will be smaller. According to The New York Times, “Law & Order’s” departure is leaving a hole in the city’s economy that may be impossible to repair. The loss of the show, which in New York City entertainment circles was known as “the mother ship,” is expected to cost the city over $79 million annually. More than 4,000 people per year were employed by the series, which is estimated to have brought in more than $1 billion to New York City over its 20-year run.

NYPD Snags Tony Award

Two New York City police precincts will be joining the cast of shows like “American Idiot” and “Lend Me A Tenor” at this year’s Tony Awards. They’ll be awarded the Tony Honor for Excellence in the Theatre for their work in the city’s theater district. On May 1st, police dealt with a potential car bomb that had been parked outside the theater where “The Lion King” plays. In December, a plainclothes officer killed a suspected scam artist near a landmark Broadway hotel after a gunfight. The Tony Honors are given to people or organizations with extraordinary achievements in theater outside the regular categories. Past winners have included producers, restaurateurs and stylists. The Tony Awards are scheduled for June 13th.

‘Lost’ Producers Heading To ‘Letterman’

“Lost” producers Carlton Cuse and Damon Lindelof are set to present a Top 10 list on the “Late Show with David Letterman” tomorrow night. The sixth and final season of “Lost” wraps up Sunday.

Travolta’s Dogs Killed In Airport Mishap

A service vehicle at Maine’s Bangor International Airport struck and killed two dogs belonging to John Travolta. The city says the accident happened as the dogs were being walked on the tarmac after an airplane carrying members of Travolta’s family landed on May 13th. An airport spokeswoman said the pets were small dogs. Travolta and his wife, Kelly Preston, own a home on Islesboro, off the coast of Waldo County. The family was headed there from Bangor. It wasn’t clear how many people were traveling with Travolta, an experienced pilot, was flying the plane.

McGregor To Replace Depp In ‘Quixote’

Ewan McGregor has signed on to replace Johnny Depp in director Terry Gilliam’s long-delayed film “The Man Who Killed Don Quixote.” Gilliam first tried to shoot the movie a decade ago, but the production was sidelined by weather and budget woes, as well as an ailing leading man, Jean Rochefort. The setbacks were chronicled in a popular documentary called “Lost in La Mancha.” Depp had hoped to appear in the second attempt at “Quixote,” but his commitment to the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise poses a conflict with Gilliam’s planned September start date for “Quixote.” Robert Duvall is set to take over the role played by Rochefort in Gilliam’s original “Quixote” movie.

NBC Signs Conan’s Drama

Conan O’Brien is back in business with NBC. The network has bought a drama he and his company are producing called “Outlaw.” It stars Jimmy Smits as a former U.S. Supreme Court justice who quits to return to private practice. Meanwhile, NBC also has a new cop show called “The Cape,” a sitcom about the dating world called “Friends with Benefits,” and Kathy Bates stars in a new David E. Kelley legal show.

Demi Moore Working On Memoir

Demi Moore wants to tell her story. The actress is working on a memoir and is meeting with publishers in New York this week to ink a deal.

Sheen Sticking With ‘Two And A Half Men’

CBS and fans of “Two and a Half Men” don’t have to worry about Charlie Sheen leaving the sitcom. Sheen has inked a new deal that will keep him on the show for two more seasons. There was a lot of uncertainty about Sheen’s future with the show after he told friends he wanted to leave after seven years because he’s tired of production demands and wanted to focus on movies.