BaconBitsNews

The world of entertainment, sports related and late breaking news... also follow me on twitter @baconbitsnews for late breaking up to the minute news







Friday, July 29

Lauryn Hill: Rohan Marley Is Not My Baby's Father

Lauryn Hill is speaking out about her new baby – and warning people not to make assumptions about his father. Hill, who welcomed her sixth child last weekend, responded to speculation that Rohan Marley, Bob Marley's son and the father of her other five children, is her new son's dad. And by mentioning the five children they have together, she seems to rule Marley out as the parent of her youngest child, who's reportedly named Baby Boy Marley. "Mr. Marley and I have a long and complex history about which MANY inaccuracies have been reported since the beginning," the soul singer, 36, writes on her official Web site. "To speculate without the facts can only cause people to form WRONG conclusions." Another rumor she'd like to clear up: Marley did not abandon her while she was pregnant with his child, she says, "contrary to the numerous reports." "We both value privacy and for that reason defend and preserve our right to it," she continues. While the status of her relationship with Marley is unclear, the Grammy winner says the couple's brood – Zion David, 13, Selah Louise, 12, Joshua Omaru, 9, John Nesta, 8, and Sarah, 3 – remain the priority. "We have had long periods of separation over the years, but our five children together remain a joy to both of us." She adds: "Thank you for your concern, and I appreciate all of the well wishes regarding the birth of my new son." For his part to debunk the paternity speculation, Marley Tweeted, "People would rather listen to gossip than hear from the actual individuals. Some people just don't want the truth." Earlier, he congratulated her on the birth of her new son.



Amy Winehouse Died from Alcohol Withdrawal, Says Family

Amy Winehouse's struggles to quit drugs were well documented. But her family fears that sudden abstinence from alcohol might have been what led to her death last Saturday at age 27, according to a report.Winehouse ignored doctors' advice to step back gradually from her heavy drinking and went cold turkey in the past month, an unnamed family friend tells Britain's Sun. Her family believes that was too much of a shock to her system, the source adds."Abstinence gave her body such a fright, they thought it was eventually the cause of her death," says the source. The cause of Winehouse's death won't be known for weeks, pending the completion of toxicology tests.



NBC Says There's No Bidding War For Casey Anthony Interview

NBC is now saying they haven't offered anything to Casey Anthony, or anyone affiliated with Casey Anthony, for an interview. A rep from NBC said: "NBC News has not and will not be in a bidding war for a Casey Anthony interview. No money has or will be offered, no licensing or other arrangements. If we were to conduct an interview it would be under our standards." It was previously reported that NBC was in a bidding war for an interview with Jose Baez, even paying for his Mandarin Oriental Hotel room in New York City. Sources connected with ABC, however, still insist there was a bidding war going on. But ABC is now saying they won't pay for photos and videos connected with interviews, either.



Soulja Boy Buys Himself $55 Million Dollar Jet

Soulja Boy just spent $55 million dollars on a private jet as a present for his 21st birthday. While most people are struggling to put gas in their hybrid cars, Soulja Boy has spent $35 million on the G5 jet and an additional $20 million on customizing it. So what does $20 mil of customization get you these days? 12 Italian leather seats, flat screen TVs, four liquor bars, a special travertine tiled floor, and Brazilian hardwood cabinets. He also took out the standard lavatory and replace it with a huge, luxurious bathroom and he is also giving the jet a custom paint job which will include his logo. The best part is according to Forbes; he only made $6 million dollars in 2010.



Kat Von D: I'm Keeping Jesse's Face Tattoo

Kat Von D gother a tattoo of Jesse James’ face on her body. She got the ink done before they split. Kat says she has “no regrets” about getting the tattoo and is refusing to remove it from her body. Because you know, everyone loves having a permanent reminder of the fiancĂ© that cheated on you on your rib cage. She says, "I love my tattoo. It's more than just a portrait, it has a lot of meaning." The portrait is of Jesse when he was in fifth grade. He apparently had no idea she was getting it tattooed on her body and seemed pretty shocked to see it. He almost didn’t even recognize himself when she first showed it to him. She took the image from his yearbook. Rumor has it that they called off their engagement because of other women.



TV NEWS


Multiple sources have confirmed that Rob Kardashian is officially signed up for the next season of the celebrity talent show, dancing with the stars. Rob is following in his sister's footsteps. Kim appeared on the show in 2008, but she was eliminated only three weeks into the competition.



HBO announced premiere dates, Boardwalk Empire will launch its second, 12-episode season on Sunday, Sept. 25, at 9/8c. On Sunday, Oct. 2, Hung whips out its third, 10-episode season (airing at 10/9c), followed by How to Make It in America‘s eight-episode sophomore run.
Oct. 10, Bored to Death will air at 9 pm, leading into Enlightened, a new series starring and exec-produced by Laura Dern.



Entourage is in its final season, and a large piece of the show's history has already been sold. The $4.2 million mansion that's featured on the show has been sold to an unnamed buyer who is rumored to be a television producer.

Wednesday, July 27

Maria Shriver: Son Christopher Back Home After Serious Accident

Maria Shriver said Tuesday that her son Christopher has been released from the hospital after suffering serious injuries in a body-boarding accident that put him in the ICU. "Blessed to be able to take Christopher out of the hospital last night. What a feeling of relief to know that he's going to be fine," Shriver tweeted. "Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers. The whole family, especially Christopher, felt your love," she added.  Christopher, the 13-year-old son of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver, was hospitalized and put in the ICU after suffering a collapsed lung and broken bones in the July 17 accident in Malibu.Shriver complimented the medical staff that helped with her son's recovery: "I will forever be grateful to the amazing doctors, nurses and hospital staff in the ICU who helped my son." She added, "We were very lucky. Many patients and families we met have been there so long and have no end in sight. I pray for their recovery." The former governor tweeted his own update: "I knew Christopher couldn't be stopped! Big thanks to all the doctors, nurses & staff at UCLA that helped him recover."



Jesse James and Kat Von D Split

Jesse James and Kat Von D have officially split. Jesse claims he split from Kat after the distance between them became “too much”. Kat is based in LA while Jesse is still living in Austin, Texas with his kids Chandler, 16, Jesse Jr., 17, and seven-year-old Sunny, in Austin, Texas. He followed Sandra to Texas after she bought a huge home there following their divorce in 2010. Jesse said: "I'm so sad because I really love her. The distance between us was just too much." They got engaged in January, just months after his divorce from Sandra became finalized, and were planning on getting married this summer. So much for that. Kat confirmed the split on her twitter page saying, "I am no longer w Jesse, and out of respect for him, his family and myself, that’s all the info I'd like to share. Thanks for respecting that. (sic)"



It's a Boy for Selma Blair

The actress, 39, and her fashion designer boyfriend, Jason Bleick, welcomed son Arthur Saint Bleick, her rep said. Arthur weighed in at 7 lbs., 12 oz. The couple, who met when collaborating on Bleick's line EVER, announced her pregnancy in January. Blair chose to keep the sex of her baby under wraps until the delivery. The actress was recently nominated for a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album for Children for the audio book Anne Frank: The Diary Of A Young Girl: The Definitive Edition.



Gene Simmons Proposed 'Months Ago'

You can't always believe what you see on reality TV. Case in point: KISS bassist Gene Simmons finally proposed to longtime girlfriend Shannon Tweed. Turns out, the proposal scene in Tuesday night's finale of A&E's reality show Gene Simmons Family Jewels was taped "several months ago," a source confirmed, and it's been a rocky road for the pair ever since.Simmons, 61, and Tweed, 54, were vacationing in Belize when he proclaimed, "you're the only friend I've got. You're the only one I love ... and you're the only one I ever will love," before getting down on one knee. It remains to be seen whether Tweed will be saying "I do" and sticking with it. She did, however, say in a recent interview that she had moved out of their home and that there was a "slim chance" of them getting back together. "You're seeing this happy family," Tweed said, "but in my heart, I am dying." The couple, who once described themselves as happily unmarried, have been together for 28 years and have two grown children Nick, 22, and Sophie, 18. This season of Family Jewels has documented their troubles and family therapy sessions stemming from Simmons's claim that he has slept with thousands of women. Last month, during a promotional tour, Tweed slammed Simmons for his infidelities and said their relationship had "pretty much unraveled." "I need some sort of commitment," Tweed said, reiterating that their relationship is over if Simmons's behavior continues. "Something has to give."



Jackson tribute concert planned in Wales in October

Michael Jackson's mom and four of his siblings announced plans Monday for a tribute concert later this year in Wales, but two of the late singer's brothers say they oppose the timing of the show. The pop singer's mother, Katherine Jackson, and siblings La Toya Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Jackie Jackson and Tito Jackson said the show is scheduled for Oct. 8 at Millennium Stadium but did not reveal any performers. Within hours of their announcement of "Michael Forever — The Tribute Concert" at a Beverly Hills hotel, brothers Jermaine Jackson and Randy Jackson released a statement that said they opposed the show because it will be held during the trial of a doctor charged in their brother's death."While we wholeheartedly support the spirit of a tribute that honors our brother, we find it impossible to support an event that is due to take place during the criminal trial surrounding Michael's death," the brothers wrote in a statement posted on each of their Twitter accounts. Jury selection in the involuntary manslaughter trial of Dr. Conrad Murray is scheduled to begin on Sept. 8, with opening statements later in the month. The case is expected to last four to six weeks."There will come a time and place for an amazing and deserving tribute to Michael," the brothers' statement read. "But we feel that the most important tribute we can give to our brother at this time is to seek justice in his name." Michael Jackson's mother and siblings had indicated they would attend all the proceedings, but Katherine Jackson said in a statement Monday that she would be at the tribute concert. She said the event would be a fitting tribute for her son, who died unexpectedly on June 25, 2009, at age 50. A previous tribute concert in Europe planned by Jermaine Jackson in the months after his brother's death was scuttled after promoters ran into problems and some of the singers listed as performers said they had scheduling conflicts.



Oregon Congressman Resigns in a Sex Scandal

Just weeks after Anthony Weiner resigned from Congress following a sex scandal, Oregon Rep. David Wu is stepping down amid allegations involving a teenager. A distraught 18-year-old woman called Wu's Portland, Ore., office, accusing the politician of aggressive and unwanted sexual behavior. The woman is the daughter of a longtime friend of Wu, according to The Oregonian. "This is very serious, and I have absolutely no desire to bring unwanted publicity, attention, or stress to a young woman and her family," Wu, 56, says in a statement to the newspaper. Following a House ethics investigation after initial reports of the allegation, Wu announced that he is resigning.



TV NEWS

CBS’ A Gifted Man is adding another TV vet to its rotation. Mike Doyle, best known as Law & Order SVU‘s late forensics tech Ryan O’Halloran, is joining the new medical drama in the potentially recurring role of Dr. Victor Lantz. Doyle’s recent credits include a recurring gig on FX’s acclaimed boxing drama Lights Out (where he also played a medicine man) and a supporting role in Green Lantern.



Court will remain in session for Franklin & Bash. TNT on Tuesday ordered a 10-episode second season of the legal dramedy, which stars Mark-Paul Gosselaar and Breckin Meyer.



Zoey Deutch (The Suite Life on Deck) has joined the cast of The CW’s Ringer, replacing Caitlin Custer as the rebellious stepdaughter of one of Sarah Michelle Gellar’s twin characters, Siobhan.



John Rhys-Davies (Raiders of the Lost Ark) will guest star on USA Network’s Psych. The actor will play a kooky art museum curator sometime during Season 6, which premieres in October.

Tuesday, July 26

Amy Winehouse Autopsy results deemed inconclusive

According to police officials in London, the autopsy performed on late singer Amy Winehouse (who passed away Saturday at the age of 27) returned inconclusive results, and no cause of death has yet been established. They are now awaiting the results of toxicology tests, the results of which should be back in two to four weeks. Since police have determined there was no foul play involved in Winehouse’s death, her body was released to her family shortly after the conclusion of the autopsy. Her parents are reportedly planning on a private family memorial for her as soon as possible, perhaps as early as tomorrow. Fans continue to gather at the makeshift memorial set up for Winehouse across the street from the home where the Grammy-winning singer lived. Her father, Mitch Winehouse, addressed the crowd and thanked them for their outpouring of support. “Amy was about one thing and that was love,” he told the group. “Her whole life was devoted to her family and her friends and to you guys as well. I can’t tell you what this means to us. It really is making this a lot easier for us.”



Leighton Meester Sues Her Mom over Misused Money

Leighton has been sending her mother $7500 a month to care for her brother Alex who recently underwent brain surgery but apparently her mother has been using that money to spend on her own cosmetic surgeries. Leighton’s mother, Constance Meester, first sued Leighton saying they had an oral contract that demanded that Leighton send her mother $10,000 a month. When Leighton only sent $7,500 Constance threatened Leighton with a $3 million lawsuit. Leighton is suing her mom because she says that “oral contract” is false and the money she sends for her brother is being spent on Botox by her mother. So sad, her mother is so greedy. A source says of Leighton, “This whole thing’s been really tough on Leighton. Her only concern has always been taking care of her brother.” Now the actress’s mother is counter-suing and "claiming" she sacrificed everything for Leighton’s acting career. She also said Leighton attacked her with a bottle. The countersuit claims that since Leighton’s mother cannot work, she needs all that money from Leighton. Leighton has had a troubled relationship with her mother from the beginning. Literally. Leighton was born in a halfway house when her mother was serving time for conspiring with a drug ring and smuggling drugs.



NFL Reporting Back to Work

“It’s a long time coming,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said after he shook hands with NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith. “Football is back, and that’s great news for everybody.” The agreement — which won’t become fully ratified until a few more steps are taken — jump starts a harried pace over the next several days that usually consumes an entire month.
• Tuesday: Teams open their facilities at 10 a.m. ET; trades can begin to take place; teams will be allowed sign rookies and begin to negotiate with their own free agents.
• Wednesday: The first 10 teams will be allowed to open training camp (camps are allowed to open 15 days before preseason game).
• Thursday: Clubs are able to waive or terminate player contracts starting at 4:01 p.m. ET.
• Friday: Clubs can begin to renegotiate contracts; clubs can sign players, but free agents are restricted from activity until the CBA is ratified.



Lauryn Hill Welcomes Sixth Child

Former Fugees singer Lauryn Hill gave birth to her sixth child, a son. Hill has five children with Rohan Marley, the son of reggae legend Bob Marley. It isn't clear whether or not Marley is the father of her sixth child. In a May Twitter exchange, Marley indicated that he was no longer with Hill and had not fathered this child. "2 things," he tweeted. "I'm not married and I don't have anyone expecting anything."



Cutler defends Cavallari after breakup

Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler defended ex-fiancee Kristin Cavallari Monday, after the weekend revelation the pair had called off their engagement."Thank you all for the support, but if you talk bad about Kristin I will delete and block you. It's unnecessary and heartless," he wrote on his Facebook page. The Vanderbilt University grad also changed his relationship status on the social networking website to "Single" and replaced his profile pic, from a photo with his former love to a picture of him with his sister. "Also, don't say now I can play football, I could play football when I had her compared to when I don't. Football is the least of my worries, so have some respect," he added in his message. Cutler, 28, and Cavallari, 24, called off their four-month betrothal this weekend just days after they had partied away at their engagement celebration, People magazine reported Sunday. The pair began dating last fall and Cutler popped the question in April. The couple were reportedly planning a spring wedding and the former "Hills" star was preparing to move from Los Angeles to Chicago for the upcoming NFL season. After the shocking news of their split, the internet was ablaze with rumors Cavallari was dumped by the football star while other reports blamed Cutler for being too controlling of the blond beauty. "Thanks for the support. Love u guys," Cavallari tweeted late Sunday, without directly referencing the news.



It's Always Sunny's Glenn Howerton, Wife Expecting a Baby

There's another It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia baby on the way! Glen Howerton, 35, who plays Dennis, and wife Jill Latiano are expecting their first child later this year. The latest addition will be joined on-set by Charlie Day and Mary Elizabeth Ellis' new arrival, due in December, and Kaitlin Olson and Rob McElhenney's son Axel Lee, 10 months. David Hornsby, a.k.a. Rickety Cricket, and wife Emily Deschanel are also expecting their first child, due in the fall. The seventh season of It's Always Sunny premieres Sept. 15 on FX.



Mourning cited for leaving crash scene

Former NBA star Alonzo Mourning is being cited by police for leaving the scene of a traffic crash in Miami Beach last week. The Florida Highway Patrol issued a report Monday saying Mourning is being issued a notice to appear in court for the second-degree misdemeanor of leaving the scene of an accident with property damage. Mourning was also issued a citation for failure to leave information at the scene. Mourning and his wife were heading home early July 17 when they came upon a wreck that had just occurred. Police say Mourning was unable to avoid hitting one of the cars. Mourning then left the scene but returned about 40 minutes later. The driver of one of the cars last week filed a lawsuit seeking unspecified damages from Mourning.



Big Ben Marries

Ashley Harlan and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, tied the knot on Saturday.  Besides family and friends, several teammates, Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, members of Steelers ownership, front office and coaching staff were also there. Tomlin and Roethlisberger had to gain special permission from the NFL to have Tomlin attend, since due to the NFL lockout, team personnel are barred from having contact with the players until the lockout is over.



Chris Says He Was Set Up

Chris Brown claims he's being set up and blamed for carving his initials into
the elevator at his Hollywood condo building.  An accusation he says is not
true. He says a neighbor did it to make him look like a "reckless punk." Brown's neighbors do not like him at all and have complained to the building manager about noise, parking violations and the defacing  of the elevator since the singer moved in a few months ago. Brown took to his twitter account to deny the allegations. As for the photos showing Brown parking in
handicapped spaces, Brown explained, "My parking spaces in my building that were assigned to me when I [bought] this crib are painted over with handicap and no
Parking signs." He added, "A person should be able to live in his or her own
company of their house! I'm barely home so these stories and accusations are so
childish!"



Kali Pen's Robber Sentenced

The guy who pulled a gun on actor, Kal Penn and stole his wallet and government
issued cell phone has been sentenced to 3 years in prison.  Marcellus Chambers
plead guilty to felony counts of robbery and assault with a deadly weapon after
pulling a gun on Penn in April 2010.  Penn was working for President Obama at
the time as the Associate Director of the White House Office of Public
Engagement when Chambers took the phone...because of that, the Secret Service
launched its own investigation. 



TV NEWS

Port Charles is the only burg in the ABC daytime-verse not heading to the sprawling void of the Internet -- probably thanks in some small part to the love of one Oscar-nominated actor. James Franco will return to "General Hospital" for his fourth stint as a guest since first heading to the series in fall 2009. Franco, who plays artist and serial killer Robert "Franco" Frank, returns to the series on Sept. 20 for what is being described as a "long-term" arc.



Brothers & Sisters and Breaking In head-turner Odette Annable is joining House this fall as a series regular. Annable — the real-life wife of B&S alum Dave Annable — will play someone that House meets while behind bars as the season opens, and ultimately the newest member of Dr. Crankypants’ team, thus filling the void left by both Amber Tamblyn and Olivia Wilde (who’s returning this fall but only for a brief stint).



Give a big Greendale welcome to John Goodman: The Roseanne vet has enrolled in Community for a six-episode guest stint. Goodman will play Vice Dean Laybourne, a distinguished, confident administrator who runs the school of Air Conditioning Repair at Greendale Community College — and one who locks horns with Dean Pelton (Jim Rash). Both Goodman and Williams appear in the season 3 premiere, which airs Sept. 22.

Monday, July 25

Amy Winehouse's Mother On Her Death: "It Was Only A Matter Of Time"

Amy Winehouse’s family members have issued a statement a day after losing their very talented daughter/sister saying that the loss of Amy has left a hole in their lives. "Our family has been left bereft by the loss of Amy, a wonderful daughter, sister, niece. She leaves a gaping hole in our lives," the Winehouse family said in a statement. "We are coming together to remember her and we would appreciate some privacy and space at this terrible time." Amy’s dad whom she was very close with was in New York City for a jazz show as he heard the news. "I'm getting on the next plane back. I'm coming home. I have to be with Amy," he reportedly said. "I can't crack up for her sake. My family needs me. I'm devastated; it's such a shock." Unfortunately, her mother Janis knew that this day would come and it was "only a matter of time" She had seen Amy 24 hours before she passed and "she seemed out of it," Janis said. "But her passing so suddenly still hasn't hit me." "I love you, mum," Amy told her mom as they parted ways. "They are the words I will always treasure," Janis now says. "I'm glad I saw her when I did." Meanwhile, Amy’s ex mother in law is worried that her son Blake Fielder-Civil will “kill himself” once he finds out that Amy has passed away. “Blake will kill himself. He won’t make it without her. He will be devastated, totally and utterly devastated. He’ll go straight back to self-harming. I’ll have to ring the prison and he’ll have to be put on watch. “He was always ringing her and she was always ringing him. Blake always wanted her back. She couldn’t walk away from him and he couldn’t walk away from her. Her and Blake were both lost and we handled it badly.” Many blame Blake for getting Amy hooked on drugs. Amy Winehouse was found dead in her London apartment. She was only 27.



Veteran actor Tom Aldredge dies at 83

Veteran actor Tom Aldredge has lost his battle with cancer at the age of 83 in Tampa. Aldredge was a regular on stage and screen, appearing in films like "Cold Mountain" in 2003 and "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" in 2007. He appeared on hit TV series "The Sopranos" and "Boardwalk Empire" and co-starred with Glenn Close on two seasons of legal drama "Damages." A celebrated Broadway star, Aldredge also starred in more than 28 stage productions including "The Crucible," "Twelve Angry Men" and "Tom Sawyer." He landed a total of five Tony Award nominations throughout his stage career for performances in shows such as "Sticks and Bones" (1972), Stephen Sondheim musical "Passion" (1994), and "Twentieth Century" (2004). He also starred opposite the late Elizabeth Taylor in "The Little Foxes" in 1981.



Linda Christian, the first Bond girl, dies at 87

Linda Christian, the Hollywood starlet of the 1940s who married heartthrob Tyrone Power and went on to become the first Bond girl, has died. Her daughter, Romina Power, says Christian died in Palm Desert after battling colon cancer. She was 87. A year after appearing in 1948's "Tarzan and the Mermaids," Christian married Power, one of Hollywood's most popular leading men. They divorced in 1956. Christian's famous curves led Life magazine to nickname her the "anatomic bomb." In 1954 she starred as James Bond's love interest in the television adaptation of the novel "Casino Royale." She is survived by Romina Power, her sister Taryn Power and eight grandchildren.



Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver: Our Son Will Make A Full Recovery

Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver have been pretty mum lately, but they just released a joint statement about their son Christopher, who was involved in a surfing accident. "A few days ago our son Christopher suffered an accident at the beach. While it has been a very scary week, Christopher is surrounded by his family and friends. He is a brave boy and is expected to make a full recovery." The statement continues, "On behalf of our entire family, we want to sincerely thank the paramedics and lifeguards who responded so swiftly as well as the doctors, nurses, emergency room and hospital staff who have cared for our son. They have been extraordinary to him and to us. We thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers and ask for respect and privacy for Christopher and our family."



Kristin Cavallari and Jay Cutler Call Off Engagement

This is not the fairy-tale ending Kristin Cavallari was hoping for. After just 10 months together, Cavallari and Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler have called off their engagement, a source confirmed. "She got dumped," says another source. "She's absolutely devastated. She can't believe this is happening." The couple, who were planning a spring wedding, became engaged in April, when Cutler popped the question in Mexico. They had been spending much of their time recently in Chicago, and Cavallari had planned to move there during the upcoming football season. "She was planning her dream wedding, the date was set, the location – everything was set," the source says. "She's in shock that the dream wedding she was planning is going to end this way." Just a week ago, Cavallari Tweeted about her engagement party. "Thx to all my amazing friends for making my engagement party a blast last night!" she wrote. The couple had completed their wedding registry, and Cavallari was determined to be in great shape for the wedding. Saturday night Cavallari hit The Beverly, an L.A. lounge, and was spotted without her engagement ring.



Box office report: ‘Captain America’ stands proud with $65.8 million; ‘Harry Potter’ plummets, still huge

Chris Evans has capped off the superhero summer with "Captain America: The First Avenger" and the studio has to be happy with its opening weekend box office earnings of $65.8 million. "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2," though down considerably from its record-breaking opening weekend, still had a strong $48 million dollar sophomore weekend. "Friends With Benefits" had a decent opening at $18.5 million.

1. Captain America: The First Avenger — $65.8 mil
2. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 — $48.1 mil
3. Friends with Benefits — $18.5 mil
4. Transformers: Dark of the Moon — $12 mil
5. Horrible Bosses — $11.7 mil



Horrible Bosses Star Charlie Day, Wife Expecting a Baby

It's been a good year for comedian Charlie Day. His film Horrible Bosses is a hit at the box office, and he's going to be a dad "We've got a kid due in December," Day, 35, said "We're five months along, and she's feeling great. We're excited." Day and his wife Mary Elizabeth Ellis, 32, who stars alongside the actor as "The Waitress" on It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, consciously decided to expand their family, says the comedian."We decided now is the time, and we were fortunate that it happened," he says. The duo shares the small screen with another real life couple, Kaitlin Olson and Rob McElhenney, who themselves became first-time parents to son Axel Lee last September.



'Spider-Man' Villain Rhys Ifans Arrested at Comic-Con

"The Amazing Spider-Man" villain Rhys Ifans was arrested and cited for misdemeanor battery for shoving a female security guard before Friday night's Comic-Con panel for the film. Ifans, who smelled of alcohol, became irate when a member of his entourage was unable to enter the hall for lack of proper credentialing, police said. They said he shoved the guard in order to pass through, and was allowed to participate in the panel, but the guard subsequently made a citizen's arrest. A spokesman for Sony said that Ifans "deeply regrets the incident." "He was aggressive and belligerent," Lt. Andra Brown said of the Welsh actor. "He was ... berating everyone from the security staff to the United States of America." "He was cited and released, which is a non-custodial misdemeanor arrest," added Brown, who said that the San Diego City Attorney will now determine whether to pursue charges. Ifans could be required to pay a fine, or could contest the case before a judge. "But, according to him, the U.S. sucks and he doesn't want to come back," Brown said. Ifans also marked his 44th birthday Friday. Sony's "Spider-Man" reboot, due next summer, Ifans plays the villainous Lizard, a scientist who takes on reptilian features after looking for a way to grow back his missing arm. "Rhys Ifans was detained by Comic-Con security after a brief incident backstage prior to and immediately following the 'Amazing Spider-Man' panel,'" a spokesman for Sony said in a statement. "Police were notified and a citation was issued to Mr. Ifans, who deeply regrets this incident."



TV NEWS

"Glee" stars Lea Michele, Chris Colfer and Cory Monteith will appear in future seasons of the hit show. Co-creator and executive producer Brad Falchuk told thousands of so-called "Gleeks" gathered at Comic-Con on Sunday that Rachel, Kurt and Finn "are not done with the show after this season." Reports surfaced last month that the three stars would not return for season four of the musical Fox series. Their characters are high school seniors who are set to graduate at the end of the season three."They're seniors, they're graduating, but just because they're graduating doesn't mean they're leaving the show," Falchuk told fans, noting that the actors remain under contract.



Everybody’s favorite canceled animated Fox show is getting a couple more years of life: Comedy Central’s Futurama has been renewed for two more years, say sources close to the production. The network has picked up another two cycles of 13 episodes — and neither include the upcoming batch that launches this June. So that keeps Futurama on the air through 2013.



To say that The Boondocks isn’t your average cartoon would be a huge understatement. The adult-themed animated show – based on the comic strip of the same name by Aaron McGruder – has skillfully and raucously skewered everything from urban culture, politics, religion, and hip-hop, to racism, misogyny, social media, movies, and of course, celebrities. Over its three-season run on Cartoon Network, The Boondocks has earned a Peabody award and garnered smash ratings for the network (the season 3 premiere drew 2.5 million viewers despite a two-year hiatus between seasons 2 and 3). The Boondocks season 4 is officially headed into production.



Good news for South Park fans. Despite the show’s creators, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, becoming the toast of Broadway, they will be continuing the show that has made them household names – for another two years, anyway. With the duo’s recent haul of 9 Tony Awards  (including Best Musical) for The Book of Mormon, it seemed like South Park would soon be in Parker and Stone’s rearview mirror. Nevertheless, news came earlier this week when Comedy Central announced the pair had committed to keeping South Park‘s run on the network through 2013 – which, for those who are counting, would be an astonishing 17 seasons.

Friday, July 22

Bond Girl Dies

A Bond girl actress who had suffered from bowel cancer ended her life by drinking a corrosive cleaning liquid. Angela Scoular, 65, who starred in "On Her Majesty's Secret Service", died in April. The actress, who lived in Maida Vale, west London, was battling alcoholism and depression and worried about debts. The actress died two hours after drinking the liquid, containing 91% sulfuric acid, and pouring it over her
body.



Webster charged with sex crimes

A former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker has been indicted on sex-related charges involving the teenage daughter of a former Bengals assistant coach. Prosecutors allege that Nathaniel Webster Jr. engaged in sexual conduct with the girl in 2009 when she was 15 and threatened to harm her and her family if she told anyone. Bond was set at $1 million. Hamilton County Prosecutor Joe Deters said Thursday the 33-year-old was indicted on single counts of gross sexual imposition and sexual battery and five counts of unlawful sex with a minor with gun specifications. Webster could get up to 36-1/2 years in prison if convicted. He played for Tampa Bay from 2000-2003 and for the Bengals from 2004-05. He finished his career with Denver from 2006-08.





Marc Anthony & Jennifer Lopez Split Because of Stewardess?

Back in 2009, the pair came close to splitting up after Anthony was rumored to have had an affair with a flight attendant. A source says, "Jennifer was going to leave him then, but Marc begged her to stay. They went to marriage counseling and she decided to give it another shot. He was someone she truly loved." But apparently it wasn't just the cheating that lead to the demise of their marriage. Anthony was also apparently insanely jealous of Lopez. Us Weekly reports that Anthony tried to control J.Lo's wardrobe and was constantly paranoid about her and other men.



Kim Kardashian Sues Old Navy

Kim Kardashian says she's going to sue Old Navy for using a woman, who looks
just like her, in their latest advertising campaign.  The actress, Melissa
Molinaro, really does bear a striking resemblance to Kardashian. Kim is upset that the company not only used a model that looked like her, but has supposedly mounted a Twitter campaign about the look-alike.



Arnold Schwarzenegger Fighting Maria Shriver Over Spousal Support

Arnold Schwarzenegger is apparently battling with Maria Shriver over their divorce settlement. The couple is reportedly at odds over whether or not Maria should get spousal support. Arnold doesn't seem to think she should have any right to his money. Maria asked for spousal support in her divorce petition, and Arnold's lawyer, Bob Kaufman, checked the box on the documents that asks the judge to terminate any right Maria has for support. Maria is also asking Arnold to pay for her attorney's fees. Arnold's response denies this as well. The couple never had a prenup, so under California law, they're entitled to a 50/50 split of their assets, including property. Between them, they're estimated to be worth nearly $400 million.



NFL Sued

Seventy-five former professional football players are suing the NFL, claiming it intentionally concealed the harmful effects of game-related concussions for over 90 years. According to the lawsuit filed in L.A. County Superior Court, the players and their wives claim, "The NFL knew as early as the 1920's of the harmful effects on a player's brain of concussions and concealed these facts from coaches, trainers, players and the public." All of the players claim they sufffered injuries as a result of multiple concussions such as dementia and memory loss. Riddell, the manufacturer of NFL helmets, is also a defendant. The suit seeks unspecified damages.



Zach Braff NOT Gay

Zach Braff says he's NOT gay. He says a hacker broke into his website and posted
the "coming out" statement. Wednesday's fake statement read, "I have been hiding
a secret inside me for too long.  The human mind can only bare so much before it
explodes in emotions, and well ... it is time to let the world know.  I am excited and proud to announce that I am an open member of the homosexual community."   Zach posted a statement on Facebook, saying, "My old website got hacked. Someone issued a 'coming out' statement on my behalf. I'm still straight and in love with my girlfriend. But not too straight; I still love musicals, brunch and Doogie Howser."



Hot New Couple Alert: Scarlett Johansson and Justin Bartha

Scarlett Johansson has officially moved on from Sean Penn and is now being linked to Justin Bartha. Bartha recently ended a two-year relationship with Ashley Olsen. Johansson was spotted canoodling with Bartha in NYC, She attended his off-Broadway show, “All New People” and then went with him to a cast dinner afterwards and sat next to Bartha all night.



DC Comics Releasing 52 #1's

In an unexpected announcement, DC Comics will release in December a colossal 1,216-page, $150 hardcover volume collecting each of the 52 #1 issues that make up the publisher's superhero relaunch.  "DC Comics: The New 52" breaks down to about $2.88 per comic and is actually a better value than buying each issue individually when they're released September.



Tiger Fires Steve

Tiger Woods and his longtime caddie, Steve Williams, have called it quits after
13 years together on tour.   Steve says he's shocked about his firing, because he stuck with Tiger throughout his mistress scandal. Tiger made the announcement on his website and wrote: "I want to express my deepest gratitude to Stevie for all his help, but I think it's time for a change ... I wish Steve great success in the future."  Steve responded ... ... I am very disappointed to end our very successful partnership at this time."



Weston Cage Arrested... Again

Nicholas's son, Weston Cage was arrested early Wednesday morning by LAPD for
felony domestic violence.  It's the second time this month he's been arrested for domestic violence. Cage was picked up to be treated for cuts that officers believe are self inflicted. According to the L.A. County Sheriff's website, Weston is still in custody on $50,000 bail.



Daniel Baldwin's Wife Sentenced

Daniel Baldwin's estranged wife, Joanne, has been sentenced to 10 days in jail
for drinking while on probation. Joanne is on probation for a DUI but last week,
Daniel called cops after Joanne allegedly made threats to kill him while extremely drunk.  He also claims during the relationship she has punched him and
even pulled a knife on him. The judge ordered her to wear a SCRAM bracelet
indefinitely -- until he orders otherwise.



Lindsay Lohan Faces New Lawsuit: Assault and Battery

Lindsay Lohan’s legal problems are far from over. Remember that Betty Ford employee she assaulted last year? The employee, Dawn Holland, wants to sue Lindsay for assault & battery claiming Lindsay was “combative and violent” when asked for a breathalyzer. In the lawsuit, Holland claims Lindsay grabbed her right wrist and began "twisting and pulling it for 8-10 seconds." Holland was eventually fired from Betty Ford for violating patient confidentiality by talking to the press. She claims she suffered "great mental, physical and nervous pain and suffering" from the incident. She’s hoping to sue Lindsay for at least $1 million dollars.



TV NEWS

The 30th anniversary of MTV going live will be celebrated on VH1 Classic.  The
network will air a three-day marathon of classic programming starting Saturday,
July 30th. At midnight July 31st, you can rewatch MTV's very first hour, which
kicked off with the Buggles' "Video Killed the Radio Star."



Sharon Osbourne is all "talked" out, at least for the time being. Osbourne says that when the second season of "The Talk" starts on CBS in the fall, she won't be there. But she also wants to return to the show eventually, after taking a break to spend more time with husband, Ozzy Osbourne.



TV Land has picked up a second season of its Fran Drescher sitcom "Happily Divorced" to air next spring.  The show is averaging 2.2 million viewers an episode.



It appears that Jorja Fox's on-again, off-again relationship with the long-running CBS hit "CSI" is on again. And this time it's permanent ... for now.  The actress who plays crime scene investigator Sara Sidle has signed on as a series regular after four seasons as a guest star.



The second half of the 15th season of South Park will be returning on Wednesday, October 5th at 10pm. This latter half of the 15th season will include seven new episodes.  Also South Park creators, Trey Parker and Matt Stone have signed on through 2013,



Glee star Darren Criss is in talks to succeed Daniel Radcliffe as the lead in the Broadway musical revival How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, according to Criss’ rep. If a deal is struck, Criss would replace the Harry Potter star — who plays the corporate ladder-climbing James Pierrepont Finch — during a three-week stint from Jan. 3 to Jan. 22. As a result, Criss would reportedly miss shooting an episode and a half of Glee.



WE will be producing an eight-part series that follows the life of Beverly Hills 90210 actress, Shannen Doherty. The show is tentatively titled, The Shannen Doherty Project and it will follow the star's relationship with photographer Kurt Iswarienko. The couple's wedding preparations will also be aired in the series.



"American Idol" runner-up, Adam Lambert, is getting VH1's  "Behind the Music"
treatment.  The program, debuting August 7th,  will chronicle Lambert’s personal
and professional life over the years. Also featured in the one-hour docuseries is never-before seen home video footage and interviews with industry experts and musical bigwigs. Guests include Lambert’s parents, friend Scarlett Cherry, Island Def Jam exec. Barry Weiss and Idol’s Season 8 winner Kris Allen Behind the Music airs on on Vh1 Sunday, August 7 at 10 p.m. ET/PT.


full list of MTV music video awards nominations:

VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Adele “Rolling In The Deep”
Tyler, The Creator “Title: Yonkers”
Katy Perry “Firework”
Bruno Mars “Grenade”
Beastie Boys “:Make Some Noise”

BEST FEMALE VIDEO
Adele “Rolling In The Deep”
Katy Perry “Firework”
Beyonce “Run The World (Girls)”
Nicki Minaj “Super Bass”
Lady Gaga “Born This Way”

BEST MALE VIDEO
Cee Lo Green “F*** You”
Eminem feat. Rihanna “Love The Way You Lie”
Bruno Mars “Grenade”
Kanye West feat. Rihanna & Kid Cudi “All Of The Lights”
Justin Bieber “U Smile”

BEST HIP HOP VIDEO
Lil Wayne feat. Cory Gunz “6’7’”
Kanye West feat. Rihanna & Kid Cudi “All Of The Lights”
Chris Brown feat. Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes “Title: Look At Me Now”
Nicki Minaj “Super Bass”
Lupe Fiasco “The Show Goes On”

BEST NEW ARTIST
Foster The People “Pumped Up Kicks”
Wiz Khalifa “Title: Black and Yellow”
Tyler, The Creator “Yonkers”
Big Sean feat. Chris Brown “My Last”
Kreayshawn “Gucci Gucci”

BEST POP VIDEO
Adele “Rolling In The Deep”
Bruno Mars “Grenade”
Pitbull feat. NE-YO, Nayer & Afrojack “Give Me Everything”
Katy Perry “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)”
Britney Spears “Till The World Ends”

BEST ROCK VIDEO
The Black Keys “Howlin For You”
Foo Fighters “Walk”
Foster The People “Pumped Up Kicks”
Mumford & Sons “The Cave”
Cage The Elephant “Shake Me Down”

BEST COLLABORATION
Pitbull feat. NE-YO, Nayer & Afrojack “Give Me Everything”
Chris Brown feat. Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes “Look At Me Now”
Kanye West feat. Rihanna & Kid Cudi “All Of The Lights”
Katy Perry feat. Kanye West “E.T.”
Nicki Minaj feat. Drake “Moment 4 Life”

The VMA’s will be live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on August 28, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.


Wednesday, July 20

Boy involved in Lamar Odom’s car accident dies

Odom wasn't driving, but it was his hired truck that crashed into a motorcyclist, which then crashed into a 15-year old boy. It turns out that the boy, a pedestrian, has died from the injuries sustained in the crash. Odom, who was in N.Y. for the funeral of his cousin, is "devastated" by the news.
David Ngoombujarra David Ngoombujarra, an Aborigine who acted in "Australia," "Rabbit-Proof Fence" and other Australian films, has died. The 44-year-old actor was found in a park Sunday and died at a hospital in Fremantle, near Perth on Australia's west coast. Police have not determined the cause but said his death was not suspicious.  Ngoombujarra was one of Australia's best-known indigenous actors. "Australia" star Hugh Jackman said Tuesday on Twitter that he was saddened by Ngoombujarra's death. He tweeted that "his laugh, warmth and humanity" would live on. Ngoombujarra won Australian Film Institute awards for "Blackfellas" and "Black and White." His other films include "Ned Kelly," "Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles" and "Kangaroo Jack."


Maya Rudolph gives birth to new son Jack

Maya Rudolph and husband Paul Thomas Anderson welcomed a baby boy, a rep for the actress/comedian said. The couple's new son, Jack, joins sisters Pearl, 5, and Lucille, 20 months. Rudolph, who is set to appear on the new NBC comedy "Up All Night," will join fellow castmates Christina Applegate (who just gave birth to daughter Sadie) and Will Arnett (whose wife, Amy Poehler, gave birth to the couple's second child in August 2010.



Piers Morgan Denies Involvement in Phone Hacking Scandal
CNN talk show host and former News of the World editor Piers Morgan on Tuesday angrily denied claims by a British lawmaker that he had taken part in phone hacking during his years as a journalist in Britain. Morgan, who hosts the U.S. nightly talk and current affairs show "Piers Morgan Tonight," said he may have been a victim of hacking but that he had never hacked a phone himself. "That MP (member of parliament) just claimed I boasted in my book of using phone-hacking for a scoop," Morgan said on Twitter during Tuesday's hearing by a British parliamentary panel in London on the scandal engulfing newspapers in Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation empire. "Complete nonsense. Just read the book," Morgan tweeted. "I've never hacked a phone, told anyone to hack a phone, or published any stories based on the hacking of a phone." Morgan, who edited the now-defunct News of The World in 1994-1995, was responding to remarks by British MP Louise Mensch at Tuesday's televised grilling of Rupert and James Murdoch, which was seen around the world. Mensch stated that Morgan had boasted in his 2005 book "The Insider: The Private Diaries of a Scandalous Decade" of having won a scoop for his Daily Mirror tabloid newspaper by using a code to gain entry into another person's cell phone. Morgan said Mensch had got her facts mixed up. In the book, he wrote that he suspected he was a victim of phone hacking. "I wrote in my book that someone warned me phones could be hacked, so I changed my pin number."
Chris Bosh's Wedding Was 'Royal Wedding of Miami' Miami Heat star Chris Bosh and Adrienne Williams threw one of most lavish wedding celebrations ever hosted at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. The $300,000 extravaganza drew out 300 guests, including Serena Williams, actress Gabrielle Union, Burn Notice star Gabrielle Anwar, and Heat teammates Dwyane Wade and LeBron James. It kicked off a Friday night with Latin-themed casino party inspired by 1950s Cuba. After quietly tying the knot in April because of Bosh's busy NBA schedule, the Saturday nuptials and reception dinner were a slam dunk, with seating cards suspended by silk organza ribbons from crystal chandeliers, and strung orchids glowing in the backdrop of thousands of dollars worth of custom scented candles. Williams wore a strapless Oscar de la Renta gown accented with a belt and a Chantilly Lace veil with crystal accents on silk tulle. To fit the traditional "something blue," she wore $10,000 custom-created Christian Louboutin heels with the bottoms painted blue. A photo booth snapped shots of guests, who received printed pictures that were later projected onto a large screen in the main ballroom, while the reception dinner concluded with a multi-tiered wedding cake, drinks at a bar designed to look like a bejeweled ring and an elaborate fireworks display. During the weekend, a Sweetheart Pool was constructed near the ocean so wedding guests could keep cool in the sub-tropical heat. "To round out the weekend, Chris gave Adrienne a Cartier necklace and she gave him an Aston Martin," the source says. "Everything was over-the-top and special they will never forget it."


Effort to extradite Randy Quaid from Canada fails

A California prosecutor says U.S. officials have rejected a request to seek the extradition of actor Randy Quaid and his wife from Canada to face felony vandalism charges. Authorities in Santa Barbara have sought the couple's return for months. Senior Deputy District Attorney Lee Carter says the U.S. State Department notified him last week that it would not pursue extradition. The Quaids were arrested in September in the coastal city and accused of causing more than $5,000 in damage to a home they once owned. They were no-shows at several court hearings and were arrested in Vancouver, where the actor sought asylum from a group he dubbed "Hollywood star-whackers." Carter says the "Independence Day" actor and his wife can be arrested if they return to the United States.


Rapper DMX released from an Arizona prison

Rap star DMX has been released from an Arizona state prison after serving an extra week behind bars for failing a drug test while incarcerated. Arizona Department of Corrections spokesman Bill Lamoreaux says family members were at the facility in Yuma to pick up the multi-platinum selling recording artist. DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, was given a year in prison in December after his probation was revoked for failing to submit to drug testing and driving on a suspended license. He spent an extra week in jail for failing a drug test. The 40-year-old Simmons was credited with 117 days he had already served. Simmons had been earning 20 cents an hour as a porter.

Antonio "L.A." Reid officially head of Epic Records
Antonio "L.A." Reid was officially named head of Epic Records. Reid -- who will do double duty as a judge on Simon Cowell's singing competition show "The X Factor" in the fall -- will carry the title of chairman-CEO, a fitting role for the man who headed Island Def Jam from 2004 to 2011. The move has been seen as inevitable since March, when Reid fled his chairman position at IDJ. Epic Records, which has first dibs on "X Factor" performers, is a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment. The label is expected to merge with Jive Records, which Reid will also oversee.

Bette Midler Blasts Lady Gaga Over Mermaid Routine

Bette Midler was less than impressed when Lady Gaga rolled onto stage in a wheelchair and dressed as a mermaid in a show last week in Australia. "I've been doing singing mermaid in a wheelchair since 1980-You can keep the meat dress and the firecracker t--s," Midler tells Gaga in one of several Tweets. "Mermaid's mine." But soon Midler has a change of heart. In another Tweet, she writes, "Let's drink this over at the Emmys in September. Fabulous mermaids can coexist!"


Terrence J Added to ‘Think Like A Man’ Cast
Tim Story has tapped all of Black Hollywood to star in the adaption of Steve Harvey’s best selling book, “Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man.” The film version, which stars Kevin Hart, will reportedly center around “a self-professed relationship expert [Kevin Hart] who is quick to give advice to his crew of friends, even as his own marriage heads toward divorce.” “Think Like A Man,” which is set to be released April 2012, will also star Michael Ealey, Gabrielle Union, Taraji P. Henson, Lala Vazquez and Chris Brown.
 The Dark Knight Movie Poster

 

TV NEWS
The two newest residents of Westeros: Stephen Dillane and Carice Van Houten been cast in significant roles in Season 2 of "Game of Thrones." Dillane will play Stannis Baratheon, who thinks he's the rightful heir to the Iron Throne and Van Houten will play Melisandre, Stannis' mysterious counselor and a women with prophetic powers.



The ninth and final episode of Love Bites will air this Thursday, at 10/9c, thus completing the midseason series’ run… forever, an NBC spokesperson has said. That NBC is pulling the plug on the romantic-comedy anthology series comes as almost no surprise, given the relentless crucible it endured to even make it on air, to then only muster the slightest of ratings.


Jere Burns (Dear John, Good Morning Miami) has been tapped for a major recurring role on Burn Notice. In at least at least five episodes this season, Burns will play Anson Fullerton, a brilliant but understated clinical psychologist whose specialties in human behavior and experience working with covert agents proves useful in answering many of Michael’s still-looming questions.


The only thing the Arnold Schwarzenegger love-child scandal was missing was a crime. And now Law & Order: SVU is taking care of that. Sources confirm that the lone remaining L&O is plotting an episode this fall loosely inspired by the real-life drama involving the secret son Schwarzenegger fathered with a member of his household staff. The episode is slated to air early in the show’s upcoming 13th season, which kicks off Wednesday, Sept. 21 at 10/9c.


A nasty legal fued has broken out over the upcoming TV series based on characters in John Grisham’s seminal legal thriller The Firm. CBS today sued the writer-producer of the upcoming NBC series claiming the project was originally developed for CBS and was taken to the Peacock network without permission. According to the complaint, filed today in Los Angeles Superior Court, Lukas Reiter and Entertainment One developed The Firm,  which picks up where the Grisham novel leaves off, for CBS under an exclusive contract. CBS says it paid Reiter $250,000 and other compensation. The lawsuit says Reiter later asked if he could take the project elsewhere and CBS said no but “Entertainment One and Reiter have moved full speed ahead, in direct violation of CBS’s rights,” according to the suit.

Tuesday, July 19

Ja Rule gets more than two years in jail on tax charge

Jailed rapper Ja Rule was sentenced in federal court in New Jersey on Monday to 28 months in prison for failing to pay more than $1 million in taxes. The 35 year-old hip-hop singer and actor, whose real name is Jeffrey Atkins, is already serving a two-year jail sentence on a weapons conviction in New York. The two terms will run concurrently, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office in New Jersey. Ja Rule previously pleaded guilty in March to three counts of failing to file tax returns. According to prosecutors, Atkins did not pay taxes from 2004 to 2008, costing the U.S. government more than $1.1 million."Taxpayers do not have the luxury of deciding whether to comply with laws," U.S. Judge Patty Shwartz said in delivering the sentence. Ja Rule pleaded guilty to attempted criminal possession of a weapon last year and began his New York prison sentence in June. The charge stemmed from a July 2007 incident, when police pulled over the singer's car after a concert and discovered a semi-automatic handgun hidden away.



Cheap Trick escapes disaster after frightening stage collapse

The members of Cheap Trick escaped serious injury, but a member of their entourage was hospitalized after the stage at the Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest collapsed. Marc Messier, a spokesman for Ottawa Fire Services, said that a 49-year-old man was in serious condition with abdominal, pelvic and leg injuries. Another had a spinal injury and a third person experienced chest pains. At least eight other people were treated at the scene for minor issues including twisted ankles and anxiety. According to a statement on the band’s website: “Severe weather hit the stage as Cheap Trick was performing at the Ottawa Bluesfest tonight. The stage blew down and collapsed. Everyone is shaken up but band and crew are all fine. Cheap Trick hopes that everyone who attended the show is also ok. Robin says ‘Fortunately the band and crew are all lucky to be alive and we’ll see you down the road. And all the best to our truck driver Sandy.’



A moment of silence for Borders: The book retail giant is no more

Ask not for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for Borders. Hemingway is just one of many authors whose books you’ll no longer find lining the shelves of the popular — but not popular enough — book chain, after a financial white knight failed to materialize to save the company from insolvency. Borders Group, after months of trying to find a solution to its bankruptcy problems, has decided to liquidate, starting as early as this Friday. The company’s nearly 400 stores will be closed and its 10,700 employees laid off — a major blow, both literal and moral, to the continued existence of physical bookstores in an era of increasing e-book readership. The company released a statement announcing their intention to liquidate after 40 years of business. “Following the best efforts of all parties, we are saddened by this development,” Borders President Mike Edwards said in the statement. “We were all working hard towards a different outcome, but the headwinds we have been facing for quite some time including the rapidly changing book industry, eReader revolution and turbulent economy have brought us to where we are now.”



Demi Lovato and Ryan Phillippe Dating?!?!

Lovato, 18, and Phillippe, 36, have apparently been hooking up for the last few months. But ever since Phillippe’s ex-girlfriend and rumored baby mama, Alexis Knapp, gave birth two weeks ago, the couple has been taking a break. A source says their relationship “was really hot and heavy for a while,” but Demi didn’t know Ryan was going to be a father with Knapp’s baby “until it basically happened. It kind of threw her for a loop.” Ryan has also been having an on/off relationship with Amanda Seyfried, and those two were also said to have stopped dating once Knapp had her baby. Ryan has two children, Ava Elizabeth, 11, and Deacon Reese, 7, with Reese Witherspoon.



Dennis Quaid is the latest addition to ‘What To Expect When You’re Expecting’

Lionsgate has confirmed that Dennis Quaid will pair up with Brooklyn Decker in the ensemble comedy, for a May-December romance that hits a speed bump when Quaid’s character, Ramsey, learns that Decker is pregnant with twins. In a Duggar family style twist, Ramsey’s son Colin is also expecting his first child, and the competitive Ramsey is determined to one-up his son. Quaid’s is the latest name added to the film’s roster, but the big screen version of Heidi Murkoff’s pregnancy guide is certainly not hurting for stars. Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks, Anna Kendrick, Chace Crawford, Rebel Wilson (Bridesmaids), Glee‘s Matthew Morrison, and True Blood‘s dreamy Joe Manganiello have already signed on. Filming is set to begin this month for a scheduled May 11, 2012 release.



Charlie Sheen Set to Return to TV in Anger Management

The former Two and a Half Men star is set to make his way back to the small screen in a television adaptation of the 2003 movie Anger Management. Sheen, 45, who was famously fired from the sitcom during a battle with the show's creator Chuck Lorre over his behavior on and off the set, will play an ex-athlete balancing his own temper problems and those of the criminal defendants he counsels – the character Jack Nicholson originated in the Joe Roth-produced film.



TV NEWS

First Lady Michelle Obama is continuing her “Joining Forces” Initiative on ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition this fall, teaming with the do-gooder series on a house for otherwise homeless female military vets.



A 61 year old man was struck and killed in Vancouver by a taxi used in the Canadian version of the game show "Cash Cab."  A producer for the show was driving the vehicle after finishing production for the day when he struck the man. The victim was taken to a local hospital, where he died a short time later. No charges have been filed yet in the incident. All parties involved are cooperating with Vancouver police.



Even more Pine Valley faves are returning before All My Children‘s (televised) “fauxnale,” airing Friday, Sept. 23, on ABC. The new encores include David Canary (Adam Chandler), Julia Barr (Brooke English), Ray MacDonnell (Dr. Joe Martin), and Lee Meriwether (Ruth Martin).



Emmy winner Drea de Matteo will guest-star on "Californication" next season. She will appear in one episode as Holly, a foul-mouthed stripper who spends a wild day with Hank (David Duchovny).



VH1 has renewed the Queen Latifah-produced Single Ladies for a second season, to premiere in 2012. Season 1 is currently airing Mondays at 9/8c.



Syfy has ordered a fourth season of its fantasy series, Merlin, to air in 2012.



AMC’s critical darling Breaking Bad returned Sunday night with a tense episode that delivered its highest ratings ever. A total of 2.6 million viewers and 1.5 million adults 18-49 tuned into the premiere telecast, up a whopping 30 percent from its third season debut more than a year ago.



Entourage‘s Constance Zimmer has found a new male posse to hang with. The actress is headed to Royal Pains as a potentially recurring love interest for Mark Feuerstein’s Hank. Her character, Dr. Abby Burton, is a psychiatrist and an old friend of Hank’s who may be able to help an especially important HankMed patient.



Kristin Cavallari Sets a Date

Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler and his TV reality show fiancee, Kristin Cavallari have set a wedding date...July 7, 2012.  The date was chosen so Cutler can get married, go on his honeymoon and get settled before having to head to training camp in August.

Monday, July 18


Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner Welcome Daughter
The Trump empire has expanded again. Ivanka Trump and husband Jared Kushner welcomed their first child, a daughter, on Sunday in New York City. "This morning [Jared] and I welcomed a beautiful and healthy little baby girl into the world," Trump, 29, announced via Twitter. "We feel incredibly grateful and blessed. Thank you all for your support and well wishes!"  Trump married Kushner, owner of the New York Observer, in October 2009.


Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony Announce Split
After seven years of marriage, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony have decided to call it quits.“We have decided to end our marriage,” the couple says in a joint statement: “This was a very difficult decision. We have come to an amicable conclusion on all matters.” Sources say that trust issues have been a factor in the couple’s downfall. “It is a painful time for all involved,” the statement continues. “And we appreciate the respect of our privacy at this time.” Lopez and Anthony married in June 2004 and have two children together, three year-old twins Max and Emme.
Harper Seven Beckham: The First Photos Harper Seven Beckham has made her debut! Parents Victoria and David Beckham took turns posting photos of each other with their 1-week-old daughter Sunday morning on their Twitter and Facebook accounts. "Daddy's little girl!" Victoria, 37, captioned a picture of David rubbing noses with their baby girl, while David, 36, snapped a shot of his wife and daughter snoozing, writing, "I took this picture of my two girls sleeping." Harper Seven arrived July 10 in Los Angeles and joins big brothers Brooklyn Joseph, 12, Romeo James, 8½, and Cruz David, 6½.



'Harry Potter' Box Office Record: $168.6 Million Opening Weekend, 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2' Beats Batman 'The Dark Knight' 
The boy wizard has vanquished the dark knight with a record-setting magic act at the weekend box office. Warner Bros. estimates that "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" took in $168.6 million domestically from Friday to Sunday. That beats the previous best opening weekend of $158.4 million, also held by Warner Bros. for 2008's Batman blockbuster "The Dark Knight." The "Harry Potter" finale also set a record for best opening day domestically Friday with $92.1 million, nearly $20 million ahead of the previous high for "The Twilight Saga: New Moon" two years ago. Paramount's third "Transformers" blockbuster, which had been No. 1 the previous two weekends, slipped to second-place with $21.3 million domestically. It remains the year's top domestic hit with $302.8 million.


Vanessa Minnillo and Nick Lachey Are Married
Vanessa Minnillo and Nick Lachey were married Friday evening in a tropical island ceremony in front of just 35 friends and family, their reps confirmed. "For us, this is just a stepping stone to do what we ultimately want and that’s to start a family together," Minnillo said. The pair, who became engaged in November, flew their wedding guests to the secret location as a surprise.


Odom in accident, but uninjured

Los Angeles Lakers star Lamar Odom was "shaken up" after he was involved in a car accident in New York City.Odom, 31, was in the back seat of a car being driven through New York at the time of the accident on Thursday night, a rep for his wife, 27-year-old reality TV star Khloe Kardashian, said. The accident took place on Saturday. Odom's car struck a motorcyclist and a 15-year-old boy, with MediaTakeOut.com adding both were injured. Odom was "shaken up" after the crash but that by Friday he was back at work, tweeting that he was shooting a Nike commercial in New York.



Bengals' Benson is arrested

Running back Cedric Benson was released from jail following an arrest on an assault charge. Travis County sheriff's spokesman Roger Wade said Benson was arrested in downtown Austin on a misdemeanor count of assault with bodily injury with family violence. Benson attorney Sam Bassett said in a statement the arrest followed ''a conflict'' between Benson and a male former roommate. Wade said Benson posted a $10,000 bond and was released

Wife: 'I did not want them to arrest him'

The wife of Green Bay Packers cornerback Brandon Underwood said the charge of disorderly conduct against her husband has been blown out of proportion. Underwood, who was arrested following an altercation with his wife in which he allegedly ripped a Super Bowl necklace from her neck and dragged her out of his car, appeared in a Wisconsin courthouse Wednesday with his estranged wife by his side. "I told police I did not want them to arrest him," Brandie Underwood, 25, said upon leaving the courthouse. "He's never harmed me in any way, shape or form." "The last thing I wanted was for him to get in trouble," she said while fighting back tears. The 25-year-old defensive back allegedly ripped the necklace from his wife's neck while the two were still sitting inside the car in the driveway of their home. He then allegedly got out of the car, walked over to the passenger side and dragged the mother of his three children from the vehicle before driving off. Brandie Underwood then called police and her husband was arrested upon his return. Wisconsin state law requires officers to make an arrest in a domestic abuse report if reasonable grounds exist that the abuse occurred and if continued abuse is likely. Brandon Underwood, who was fined $379 earlier this year after pleading no contest to one count of prostitution-nonmarital sexual intercourse in connection with an incident last summer, refused to comment after he signed a $1,000 bond.



Three ex-TCU players, one a Colt, arrested

Three former Texas Christian University football players, including two with NFL ties, were arrested for public intoxication in Dallas early Sunday morning. Indianapolis Colts defensive lineman Jerry Hughes, former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Stephen Hodge and ex-TCU defensive tackle Cory Grant were arrested on suspicion of public intoxication and taken to the Dallas City Detention Center.



Jane Fonda: QVC axed my appearance over politics
Jane Fonda says she's been banished from QVC amid concerns about her political past. The network says it was a routine programming change. Fonda was set to appear on the home-shopping channel on Saturday to promote her new book on aging, "Prime Time." But the day before, she learned her segment had been cancelled. In a statement posted on her website, Fonda says QVC told her of receiving "a lot of calls" from viewers criticizing her opposition to the Vietnam War and threatening to boycott the show if she was allowed to appear. Fonda goes on to say she is "deeply disappointed that QVC caved to this kind of insane pressure" and declares, "I love my country." Paul Capelli, a spokesman for West Chester, Pa.-based QVC, confirmed Fonda's cancelled appearance, but specified no reason. "It's not unusual to have a schedule change with our shows and guests with little or no notice," he said in an e-mail. Fonda is not currently re-scheduled to appear, he said. Though she still defends her anti-war activism, Fonda has acknowledged that the photo incident was "a betrayal" of American forces. "That two-minute lapse of sanity will haunt me until the day I die," she wrote in her 2006 autobiography. The 73-year-old actress won Oscars for her films "Coming Home" and "Klute." Besides her books, she has also produced and starred in a number of bestselling exercise videos. "Prime Time" will be released next month.



TV NEWS

The midlife misadventures of Joe, Owen and Terry have come to an end.
TNT on Friday pulled the plug on Men of a Certain Age, which just aired its Season 2 finale on July 6.


Comedy Central has dubbed 2011 “The Year of the Fan,” plotting a yearlong celebration in honor of South Park‘s 15th season. The fun kicks off at San Diego Comic-Con (beginning Thursday, July 24) with a special 15,000-sq. foot fan experience, including a cafeteria that serves — wait for it — Cheesy Poofs! Lest you cannot make it to SDCC, know this: Cheesy Poofs will also be available in stores soon, courtesy of Kraft Foods.



Jayson Williams' estranged wife, Tanya Young Williams, has joined the cast of VH1's "Basketball Wives: L.A." Young Williams said she has shot three episodes of the reality series so far while navigating divorce proceedings. Former Nets star Williams is behind bars for assault in the death of a limo driver and is up for parole next month when the show premieres.


The fate of yet another actor facing the prospect of double duty this TV season has apparently been decided. B.D. Wong, who fills a major role on the NBC midseason drama Awake, announced on Twitter Sunday that Law & Order: SVU viewers likely have seen the last of forensic psychiatrist Dr. George Huang. “I actually do not return for Season 13,” Wong told one follower during his live tweeting of USA Network’s Sunday afternoon “What Would BD DO” SVU marathon. “I am jumping to Awake! It’s awesome!”


Tony Award winner Idina Menzel is in final negotiations to return to Fox’s musical dramedy Glee in the upcoming third season for a major arc that could span as many as 10 to 12 episodes. In what is described the most significant cast addition on the show next season, Menzel will reprise her role as Rachel Berry’s (Lea Michele) biological mother, Shelby Corcoran, which she originated in five episodes of Glee‘s first season.


Mike Vogel has boarded ABC’s Pan Am as the new pilot. The Miami Medical hottie will replace Generation Kill‘s Jonah Lotan, who played the newly promoted captain in the show’s pilot but was let go for creative reasons. Pan Am lifts off Sunday, Sept. 25 at 10/9c following the season premiere of Desperate Housewives.


Blue Bloods is tapping into the Great White Way for its Season 2 premiere, recruiting three-time Tony nominee Kelli O’Hara (South Pacific) to guest star in the fall opener as Lisa, a bestie of Erin’s (played by Bridget Moynahan).


Frequent Shark Tank guest Mark Cuban is set to join the ABC business-based reality series full-time. The Dallas Mavericks owner will appear in 10 of the third season’s 13 episodes, set to bow at midseason.

Friday, July 15

Kate Hudson, Matthew Bellamy Name Son Bingham Hawn

Kate Hudson and fiancĂ© Matthew Bellamy have chosen a name for their newborn son -- and it's Bingham Hawn Bellamy, nicknamed Bing. "So happy! Just had a baby boy, Bingham 'Bing' Hawn Bellamy. Born 7lb 12oz, on 9th July," Muse frontman Bellamy, 33, Tweeted Thursday. "Mum and baby are strong and healthy. Mum was a warrior, Bing popped out after 4.5 hours of intense pushing!" He adds, "For those wondering, Bingham is my mum's maiden name and Bing Russell was Kurt's dad. Family connections all round!" Baby Bing joins big brother Ryder Russell, 7½, from Hudson's marriage to rocker Chris Robinson.



New Couple Alert

90210 star AnnaLynne McCord, 23 and Prison Break's Dominic Purcell, 41 have been dating for the past couple of months, they met on the set of the movie Officer Down. She was recently tied to Twilight's Kellan Lutz. He has four children with ex-wife Rebecca Williamson, they divorced in 2007.



Daniel Baldwin's Wife Arrested

Joanne Baldwin turned herself in to the Lake Oswego Police Department in Oregon after admitting to consuming alcohol, which is in violation of her probation for a DUI charge. Daniel met Joanne in 2007 when she was a chef at a rehab facility he was staying at for treatment for his drug addiction. In Daniel’s petition for a restraining order from Joanne, amongst the claims that she threatened to kill him he also stated that Joanne had many problems stemming from drug and alcohol use. Joanne was booked and transferred to Clackamas County Jail where she will remain without bail until her court date on July 20.



Progress made, work to be done

Making significant progress on one of the major sticking points in NFL labor talks, owners and players neared agreement Thursday on how to rein in the soaring salaries of high first-round draft picks, people familiar with the negotiations said.
Another person with knowledge of the discussions said that Thursday's 12-hour-plus meeting at a Manhattan law firm was producing results but that other key issues remained to be resolved, such as what free agency will look like moving forward and new offseason workout rules. On rookie salaries, four people familiar with the talks said first-round draft picks will sign four-year contracts with a club option for a fifth year. That represents a compromise; owners were hoping for five-year contracts, while players wanted highly drafted rookies to be under a team's control for only four years. NFL owners have long sought to restrict the huge bonuses and salaries paid to unproven rookies, particularly those selected at the top of the draft. Quarterback Sam Bradford, taken No. 1 overall in 2010 by the St. Louis Rams, signed a six-year, $78 million contract that included a record $50 million in guaranteed money.



Halle's Stalker Charged

Halle Berry's stalker, Richard Franco, has been charged with felony stalking. He must stay at least 100 yards away from her, her home, her daughter, her vehicle and her workplace.
 


Jayceee Dugard's Memoir

Jaycee Dugard's memoir, A Stolen Life, set a new eBook record on Tuesday when 100,000 of the 175,000 copies sold were bought electronically by Kindle and Nook users.



Boob App

A new iPhone app, called Boob Job, allows users to give themselves instant breast implants. Users upload a photo of themselves before using the touch screen to enlarge their chest.



TV NEWS

Jenna Fischer has revealed a not-so-secret secret: Her real-life baby bump will be written into the NBC sitcom’s eighth season, premiering Sept. 22. “Pam will be pregnant when the season starts,” the actress tells New York Magazine’s Vulture blog. “Pam and Jim snuck away last season on Valentine’s Day, and they had sex. The story is that they conceived this baby at that time, and were keeping it a secret until we come back from the summer.”



NBC has announced that auditions for the 13th season of The Biggest Loser (set to bow in January 2012) will launch on Saturday, July 30 in Austin, Texas, Newark, N.J., and Detroit, Mich., before moving on to 10 additional cities. Details and applications can be found at TheBiggestLoserCasting.com



Since Nicole Scherzinger is officially in as judge on Fox’s The X Factor, she’s out over on NBC’s The Sing-Off (which returns Monday, Sept. 19). To fill the void, “Love Song” singer Sara Bareilles will join musician Ben Folds and Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman at the dais this fall.




Emmy Nominees 2011

OUTSTANDING DRAMA
Boardwalk Empire
Dexter
Friday Night Lights
Game of Thrones
The Good Wife
Mad Men

OUTSTANDING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA
Kathy Bates, Harry’s Law
Connie Britton, Friday Night Lights
Mireille Enos, The Killing
Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU
Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife
Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men

OUTSTANDING ACTOR IN A DRAMA
Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire
Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Jon Hamm, Mad Men
Hugh Laurie, House
Timothy Olyphant, Justified

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A DRAMA
Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones
Josh Charles, The Good Wife
Alan Cumming, The Good Wife
Walton Goggins, Justified
John Slattery, Mad Men
Andre Braugher, Men of a Certain Age

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA
Kelly Macdonald, Boardwalk Empire
Archie Panjabi, The Good Wife
Christine Baranski, The Good Wife
Margo Martindale, Justified
Michelle Forbes, The Killing
Christina Hendricks, Mad Men

OUTSTANDING GUEST ACTOR IN A DRAMA
Bruce Dern, Big Love
Beau Bridges, Brothers & Sisters
Michael J. Fox, The Good Wife
Paul McCrane, Harry’s Law
Jeremy Davies, Justified
Robert Morse, Mad Men

OUTSTANDING GUEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA
Mary McDonnell, The Closer
Julia Stiles, Dexter
Loretta Devine, Grey’s Anatomy
Randee Heller, Man Men
Cara Buono, Mad Men
Joan Cusack, Shameless
Alfre Woodard, True Blood

OUTSTANDING COMEDY
The Big Bang Theory
Glee
Modern Family
The Office
Parks and Recreation
30 Rock

OUTSTANDING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Laura Linney, The Big C
Melissa McCarthy, Mike & Molly
Martha Plimpton, Raising Hope
Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation

OUTSTANDING ACTOR IN A COMEDY
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Louis C.K., Louie
Steve Carell, The Office
Johnny Galecki, The Big Bang Theory
Matt LeBlanc, Episodes
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY
Chris Colfer, Glee
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family
Ed O’Neill, Modern Family
Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family
Ty Burrell, Modern Family
Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY
Jane Lynch, Glee
Betty White, Hot In Cleveland
Julie Bowen, Modern Family
Sofia Vergara, Modern Family
Kristen Wiig, Saturday Night Live
Jane Krakowski, 30 Rock

OUTSTANDING GUEST ACTOR IN A COMEDY
Idris Elba, The Big C
Nathan Lane, Modern Family
Zach Galifianakis, Saturday Night Live
Justin Timberlake, Saturday Night Live
Matt Damon, 30 Rock
Will Arnett, 30 Rock

OUTSTANDING GUEST ACTRESS IN A COMEDY
Kristin Chenoweth, Glee
Dot-Marie Jones, Glee
Gwyneth Paltrow, Glee
Cloris Leachman, Raising Hope
Tina Fey, Saturday Night Live
Elizabeth Banks, 30 Rock

OUTSTANDING REALITY SHOW HOST
Phil Keoghan, The Amazing Race
Ryan Seacrest, American Idol
Tom Bergeron, Dancing With the Stars
Cat Deeley, So You Think You Can Dance
Jeff Probst, Survivor

OUTSTANDING REALITY SHOW COMPETITION
The Amazing Race, CBS
American Idol, Fox
Dancing With the Stars, ABC
Project Runway, Lifetime
So You Think You Can Dance, Fox
Top Chef, Bravo

OUTSTANDING VARIETY, MUSIC, OR COMEDY SERIES
The Colbert Report, Comedy Central
Conan, TBS
The Daily Show With Jon Stewart, Comedy Central
Late Night With Jimmy Fallon, NBC
Real Time With Bill Maher, HBO
Saturday Night Live, NBC

OUTSTANDING TV MINISERIES OR MOVIE
Cinema Verite, HBO
Downton Abbey, PBS
The Kennedys, ReelzChannel
Mildred Pierce, HBO
The Pillars of the Earth, Starz
Too Big To Fail, HBO

Thursday, July 14

Daniel Baldwin Files for Divorce, Blames Wife's Addiction Issues

The actor filed for divorce from his wife, Joanne Smith, just two weeks shy of their fourth wedding anniversary. The news comes just one day after he filed a temporary restraining order against the former British fashion model turned chef."Due to recent events in our home and for the safety of my children and myself, I have made this decision," Baldwin, 50, says. "I have had my share of problems with drugs and alcohol many years ago and know firsthand how difficult a position she is in." Baldwin, who appeared in four episodes of "Celebrity Rehab With Dr. Drew," married Smith on July 28, 2007. They have two daughters together: Avis Ann, 3, and Finley Rae Martineau, nearly 2. The judge who issued the restraining order gave Baldwin temporary custody.



Bette Midler drops out of HBO's Phil Spector biopic due to injury

HBO's upcoming Phil Spector biopic has hit a major snag. Bette Midler has dropped out of the project, which is currently in production, after suffering a herniated disc. Midler had been cast to play Linda Kenney Baden, one of the record producer's defense attorneys during his trial for the murder of actress and club hostess Lana Clarkson. Midler's part will be recast. According to HBO, Midler filmed for three of the six days that the project has been in production while suffering from the condition and on medication, before bowing out on the advice of her doctor. "I am heartbroken to be forced to leave this terrific project, working with David Mamet & Al Pacino was a dream of mine; but the pain I am in has made my participation impossible. My heartfelt thanks to everyone for their kind understanding," Midler said in a statement.



Lea Michele, Chris Colfer and Cory Monteith leaving 'Glee'

It seems "Glee" will soon be looking for some fresh, new faces to take over the halls of William McKinley High School. In an interview, show co-creator Ryan Murphy divulged that Lea Michele, Chris Colfer and Cory Monteith will be graduating at the end of the show's third season, saying that they are "not going to be back at all for Season four." "We've never done anything by the book," said Ryan. "We made that decision and I involved Chris and Lea and they thought that was a good idea. They both trust the writing and trust me and felt that it would be great to have an open and closed experience for them to go out while they were on top." Although Cory wasn't involved in the decision-making process, Ryan seemed sure that the actor is aware of the upcoming changes, saying, "He knows he was a sophomore when the show started."



Kentucky Fried is Hiring

Kentucky Fried Chicken, where Miami Heat guard, Dwyane Wade worked as a
teen, is offering to donate $250,000 to a scholarship program if he returns
to work at a drive-through. John Cywinski, general manager of KFC restaurants,
said they will donate the money in Wade's name to its Colonel Scholars program
if Wade agrees to man a drive-through window at one of its locations. Cywinski
said the offer was inspired by Wade's Twitter post asking if anyone is hiring
after the announcement of the NBA lockout.



TV NEWS

Veteran actor Ted Danson will replace Laurence Fishburne on the twelfth season of C.S.I. HE will still be a series regular on HBOs Bored to Death.



The doctor is still in. Following weeks of ultimately down-to-the-wire negotiations, Jesse Spencer has closed a new deal to continue on as House‘s Dr. Robert Chase for the upcoming Season 8. House returns on Monday, October 3, at 9/8c (now leading out of Terra Nova).



It’s official, Teen Wolf fans: Scott McCall and Co. will be returning for more full moon fun. MTV announced the Season 2 pickup of its hit freshman series, based on the cult classic ’80s flick of the same name.



Kal Penn — who put the brakes on his acting career two years ago when he traded in his regular gig on House for a job in the Obama administration — is returning to TV with a major recurring role on How I Met Your Mother, sources confirmed. A Mother source says Penn will play a possible love interest for Cobie Smulders’ lovelorn Robin named Kevin. Penn is slated to vacate his White House post — where he served as associate director in the office of public liaison — later this month.



Starting July 31st, at 6am every Sunday, AMC will air three hours of "Mad Men"
episodes. The net will start with the very first episode, the Season 1 Pilot and
continuing with each consecutive episode.