Sherman Hemsley dispute continues to delay burial for actor

Actor Sherman Hemsley of "The Jeffersons" and "Amen" died at his Texas home three months ago. But he has still not been laid to rest. It is because both the beneficiaries of his will and his cause of death have been called into question. An employee from the San Jose Funeral Home in El Paso says that Hemsley's body is still at their facility and that they await a court order telling them what to do with it. The legal dispute at the heart of the problem is between Hemsley's former manager and live-in companion Flora Enchinton, who was named the sole beneficiary in his will, and Richard Thornton, a man from Philadelphia who claims to be Hemsley's brother. Thornton has filed a civil lawsuit disputing the validity of the will. The value of the estate is estimated at $50,000. Now a third party has come forward -- Reverend Michael George Wells, a minister at the Arch Street United Methodist Church in Philadelphia, who claims to be a cousin of Hemsley's on his mother's side. Wells says that he doesn't believe Enchinton was close to Hemsley, nor that Thornton is related to the actor. "We are family, and we are not looking for money. But if we are entitled to something, we don't want anyone else to have it," he tells the El Paso Times. Wells also tells Fox that he questions the claims Hemsley died of cancer and that the estate is only worth $50,000. But Wells does not have the money to get into the legal battle. Judge Patricia Chew ordered Thornton to take a DNA test. The trial over the estate and remains will resume Wednesday, Oct. 31.

Ian Ziering's wife Erin expecting the couple's second child

Former "Beverly Hills 90210" star Ian Ziering is going to be a second-time dad come the spring of 2013. The actor says that he and wife Erin, who is a nurse, are expecting. "I feel blessed, having a family is something that I've always wanted," says Ziering. "Having a second child is the realization of a dream come true." This is Ziering's second marriage; he was previously married for 4.5 years to Nikki Schieler, a former Playboy playmate. They divorced in 2002. Ziering and Erin married in May 2010 and have a daughter together -- Mia Loren is 18 months old and has apparently learned to point to her mommy's belly and say, "Baby." Awww. The baby is due in May.

Police seeking help in traffic death of R&B artist Natina Reed

Authorities are trying to figure out why R&B artist Natina Reed was in the street when she was struck by a car and killed, two days shy of her 33rd birthday. Gwinnett County police say they'd like to talk to anyone with information that could help them determine what happened to Reed late Friday near Lilburn in metro Atlanta. Reed was the rapping member of the 1990s female singing group Blaque, known for the hits "808" and "Bring It All to Me." She was also an actress, appearing in the hit 2000 movie "Bring It On," which also featured Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union. Police say Reed was struck and killed while in the roadway at an intersection on U.S. 29. Police say the driver wasn't at fault and no charges are being filed. They say the only witnesses were the driver and a passenger. Investigators want to determine why Reed was in the road. She is survived by a son, Tren, from a relationship with fellow rapper Kurupt. In a statement on Twitter, Kurupt said, "This is a tremendous loss to our family."

Toni Braxton bankrupt, accused of fraudulent money transfer

According to new legal documents filed in singer Toni Braxton's bankruptcy case, Braxton transferred over $50,000 to her estranged husband Keri Lewis in order to avoid paying back creditors. The bankruptcy trustee in the case is now suing Lewis to get the money back. A rep for Braxton says, "All of the payments made to Lewis prior to Toni's bankruptcy filing were appropriate transfers for reasonable and necessary personal and business expenses in the ordinary course of her business." Braxton first filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2010, claiming her debt was as high as tens of millions of dollars. Her creditors included the Four Seasons Hotels, DirecTV, Neiman Marcus, Tiffany and Co., American Express and the Flamingo Las Vegas.
 Deryck Whibley — Avril's ex-husband — and his girlfriend Ari Cooper dressed up as Avril Lavigne and Chad Kroeger for Halloween. The Nickelback singer slammed him on Twitter. “Hey Deryck loved the costumes! we were going to dress up as you guys this year but all the parties had celebrity themes haha! –CK,” he wrote.

Hulk Hogan Settles Sex Tape Lawsuit With Bubba The Love Sponge Clem

Former pro wrestler Hulk Hogan has settled a lawsuit with a disc jockey over a sex tape involving Hogan and the DJ’s wife. A statement by Hogan’s publicist Monday says the terms of the settlement are confidential. Hogan said in a lawsuit earlier this month that he had consensual sex with his best friend’s wife, Heather Clem, six years ago in the Clems’ home, but he didn’t know he was being videotaped. The disc jockey, Bubba the Love Sponge Clem, apologized to Hogan on Monday. Clem also said that he’s convinced Hogan was unaware he was being filmed. A lawsuit is still pending against the gossip website Gawker, which put excerpts of the video on its site.
  It’s a boy for Heather Tom! The Bold and the Beautiful star, 36, and husband James Achor welcomed their first child, son Zane Alexander Achor.  Baby boy weighed in at 8 lbs., 1 oz. The couple, who married in September 2011 and announced their pregnancy in May, have another joint production in the works as well. Their new design series, Renovation Unscripted, is set to air on HGTV.

RZA set to direct 'Gengis Khan' biopic, also action thriller 'No Man's Land'

Now that rapper RZA’s directorial debut The Man With the Iron Fists is out in theaters this Friday, he’s a man in demand. the Wu-Tang Clan leader is set to direct not just one, but two, upcoming films: Genghis Khan, a biopic about the famed Mongol warrior, from a script by John Milius, who is also executive producing with Andre Morgan and Peter Lam as co-producers, and action thriller No Man’s Land, from a script by Trey Ellis and David Klass, with Pandemonium’s Bill Mechanic and Reginald Hudlin (Django Unchained) producing. Gengis Khan will shoot next year in China, where RZA – born Robert Fitzgerald Diggs – filmed martial arts action film The Man With the Iron Fists. The story will be told from the viewpoint of Khan’s son and grandson. No Man’s Land revolves around  a man who steals a diamond belonging to a powerful criminal to pay off his debts, and then pairs up with a girl he was mistakenly told to murder. They try to stay alive, and cash in on the huge sparkler. No actors have been cast yet.  The Man With the Iron Fists, starring Lucy Liu, Russell Crowe, and RZA himself, mark’s RZA first foray into directing. He co-wrote the film with Eli Roth, which is being presented by Quentin Tarantino.

Green Day cancels 2012 dates, postpones '13 start

Green Day is canceling the rest of its 2012 club schedule and is postponing the start of the 2013 arena tour. Bass player Mike Dirnt says Billie Joe Armstrong's "well-being is our main concern" in the band's decision to clear the schedule through Feb 8. He says in a statement Monday that Armstrong is doing well in his attempt to shake substance abuse problems that emerged publicly in September when the singer-guitarist had a profane meltdown on the stage of the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas. The Grammy-winning punks also moved up the release date of "Tre," the third installment in a trilogy of albums released over a period of months. The album will be released Dec. 11, more than a month ahead of schedule.
 Steve Jobs' yacht was unveiled in a Dutch shipyard on Sunday, where the unusual boat designed by Jobs and famed minimalist designer Philippe Starck was christened "Venus," after the Roman goddess of love, beauty, sex, fertility, prosperity and victory. The finished ship was launched at shipbuilder Koninklijke De Vries in Aalsmeer, The Netherlands. Jobs' widow Laurene and three of their children, Reed, Erin and Eve, were at the ceremony. The Jobs family gave each of the members of the shipbuilding staff an elegant thank-you note, along with a token gift of their appreciation — an iPod Shuffle with the name of the ship inscribed on the back.

The yacht appears to be as it was described in the Steve Jobs biography by Walter Isaacson. In the book, Isaacson wrote about Jobs showing him models and architectural drawings of the yacht, which Isaacson described as "sleek and minimalist." According to the report, the enormous yacht is between 230 and 260 feet long, and appears to be as it was described in the Jobs biography — it's an extraordinary vessel with teak decks and large panes of ceiling-to-floor glass throughout. The boat is said to have seven 27-inch iMacs on board, and a photo showed six of them lined up on a single counter

 

Evelyn Lozada, the divorcee of former NFL player Chad Ochocinco Johnson, said she plans to let the no-contact order against Johnson-who head-butted her allegedly-expire. Upon the completion of Johnson’s program, Lozada would have to request a civil restraining order, which she plans not to do, despite the head-butting incident. Johnson evaded having to serve jail time in lieu of 12-month’s probation time and enrollment in the  batterers intervention program.

TV NEWS
Fear not, "Jeopardy" and "Wheel of Fortune" fans; there are at least four more years of answers in the form of questions and letter-turning thrills to come. Both "Jeopardy" and "Wheel of Fortune" have been renewed through 2016 on the ABC Owned Television Stations Group, CBS Television Distribution said Monday. The re-up will bring "Wheel of Fortune" into its 33rd season and "Jeopardy" into its 32nd season. Though "Jeopardy" host Alex Trebek had hinted recently that he's been mulling retirement, both he and "Wheel of Fortune" co-hosts Pat Sajak and Vanna White recently renewed their contracts through the 2015-2016 season.


It’s full steam ahead for Hell on Wheels. The Anson Mount-starring period drama has received a 10-episode third season from AMC.


NBC has passed on Rainn Wilson’s Office spinoff project The Farm, the actor tweeted Monday. The series followed Wilson’s Office character Dwight Schrute as he managed his beet farm and bed and breakfast. “NBC has passed on moving forward with The Farm TV show,” Wilson tweeted. “Had a blast making the pilot — onwards & upwards!” Sources confirm that the show isn’t moving forward, but its backdoor pilot will still air as a stand-alone episode during the regular Office season as originally planned. NBC rejecting the show isn’t much of a surprise, the concept always sounded more like a wacky parody of a spinoff more than an actual spinoff. The Office, which was once NBC’s top-rated scripted show, will now end its nine-year run this season without any offspring surviving into next fall.


ABC is giving full-season pickups to freshman comedy The Neighbors and returning drama Scandal. Nope, Scandal didn’t already have one. Second-season shows often get full season orders, but ABC has been cautious with the Shonda Rhimes political soap. But in the wake of its reasonably steady performance on Thursdays this fall, Scandal is now getting an extra nine episodes and its first full season. As for Neighbors, it’s been the weakest link in ABC’s Wednesday night comedy block, but hasn’t been nearly the disaster that critics had predicted/hoped.

Still no word on ABC’s freshman dramas. We’re told the network will likely decide on Last Resort and 666 Park Avenue this week or early next week.


After two seasons, Anderson Cooper’s daytime talk show will come to an end. Syndicator Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution confirmed Monday morning that Anderson will fold its tent after the current season and not seek a renewal from stations. “We are extremely proud of Anderson and the show that he and the entire production team have produced,” said WB and producer Telepictures in a statement. “While we made significant changes to the format, set and produced it live in its second season, the series will not be coming back for a third season in a marketplace that has become increasingly difficult to break through.”
 Ringer‘s Mike Colter has a new alias.
The actor is joining Fox’s midseason serial killer thriller The Following in the recurring role of FBI bureaucrat Nick Donovan.  The series — from Vampire Diaries EP Kevin Williamson —revolves around a deranged serial killer by the name of Joe Carroll (James Purefoy) who creates his own cult of murderers via the wonders of technology, and the retired FBI profiler Ryan Hardy (Kevin Bacon) who is hunting him down.  In addition to his one-season run on The CW’s Ringer, Colter’s TV credits include a recurring role as drug kingpin Lemond Bishop on CBS’ The Good Wife. The Following debuts on Monday, Jan. 21 at 9/8c.


Kim Cattrall is returning to series TV for the first time since "Sex and the City" ended in 2004. Cattrall will star in and executive produce an adaptation of the 2005 British comedy series "Sensitive Skin," about a woman's mid-life crisis.The six-episode series will premiere on Canada's The Movie Network and will also be executive produced by the "Slings & Arrow" team of writer Bob Martin and director Don McKellar.

Taylor Swift will co-host The Grammy Nominations Concert Live!: Countdown to Music’s Biggest Night with NCIS: Los Angeles‘ LL Cool J. The live broadcast from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena is scheduled to air on December 5 (CBS, 10/9c).


Anna Devane’s love life is going to become even more complicated this November when Tristan Rogers‘ Robert Scorpio makes his way back to General Hospital. Rogers’ first appearance will take place on Thursday, November 15.


Tonight's Premieres:Investigation Discovery: Motives & Murders: Cracking the Case at 10p
Logo: The Baby Wait at 10p
Syfy: Total Blackout at 10p; Viral Video Showdown at 1030p
Tonight's Finale:TLC: 19 Kids and Counting at 9p; Extreme Cheapskates at 10p & 1030p
DIY Network: I Hate My Bath at 10p














 

 Natina Reed of the late 1990s girl band Blaque has passed away. The "Bring It On" star, 32, died on Friday, Oct. 26 after she was struck by a car while crossing the street in Georgia. According to the Gwinnett Police Department, the driver of the vehicle was "was determined to be not at fault and there are no charges pending." The driver also phoned 911 after the accident, at 10:30 P.M. Reed was pronounced dead at 10:59 P.M. at Gwinnett Medical Center. She would have been 33 Sunday. Reed was known as one-third of the Atlanta-based group Blaque, who had hits like "808," "Can't Get It Back" and "Bring It All To Me," which featured 'N Sync's J.C. Chasez. She starred in 2000's "Bring It On" with band mates Brandi Williams and Shamari Fears-DeVoe. The rapper was a protégé of the late Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, who was a member of TLC until 2002. Fellow Blaque members Williams and Fears-DeVoe issued a joint statment: We are devastated by the loss of our group member, sister and friend Natina Reed. Because of the enormous support of Blaque fans and our love for each another, Blaque officially reunited this fall and we were in the process of working on a new album and a reality show. Natina continuously embodied the pioneering spirit of Blaque and her undeniable creativity touched the hearts of fans everywhere. Natina was a mother, sister, accomplished songwriter, artist and friend. We ask for your prayers at this time for Natina's family. She will forever be missed and her global influence eternally felt. We thank God for the experiences we shared. Reed, a New York City native, is survived by her son, Tren Brown, 10. His father is the rapper Kurupt, who said in a statement: "Myself and Tren, Natina's son, would like to thank everyone for their love and support during this tragic time. This is a tremendous loss to our family. Natina was a great person, and I wish everyone had the opportunity to meet her and know her as I did."

Lil Wayne tells fans he's 'good' after hospitalizations

Lil Wayne is doing well after multiple in-flight medical emergencies grounded two planes he was flying on. The rapper tweeted fans to thank them for their support after experiencing seizure-like symptoms and being hospitalized two days in a row. "Thanx for all the prayers! I am good," writes the rapper. Although Wayne's people have denied that he experienced seizures, instead saying he was suffering from migraines and dehydration, the pilot on one of the planes described his ailment as seizure-like when he radioed in the emergency before re-routing the plane so Wayne could go to the hospital. His hospitalization could disrupt the court case he's currently embroiled in because he might not be able to testify against the documentarian whom he accuses of portraying him in a scandalous light and using his music without his permission.


Alan Kirschenbaum, co-creator of 'Yes, Dear,' dead at 51
Comedy writer Alan Kirschenbaum, whose vast TV credits include the co-creation of CBS’ long-running sitcom Yes, Dear as well as writing for the laughers My Name is Earl and Raising Hope, has died. He was 51. Pending examination, the Los Angeles County Coroner on Sunday called it an apparent suicide.  “We are stunned and devastated to hear the news this morning of Alan’s passing,” according to a CBS statement. ”We have lost a long-time colleague, a valued friend and truly one of the most well liked individuals in our midst.  We will remember a gifted and successful comedy writer/producer who shared generously of his time beyond his show duties to help the network and studio in a variety of ways; a kind and gentle man; and a warm and witty conversationalist who could always be seen chatting up many on our lot ranging from assistants to senior executives.  Everyone at CBS truly loved Alan and he will be deeply missed.  Our hearts grieve for his wife Vicki, daughter Molly, sister Judi, mother Ethel and his father, comedian Freddie Roman, and all of Alan’s family and friends.”

Buju Banton asks judge to reconsider drug sentence

Buju Banton's new attorney has asked a federal judge in Tampa to reconsider the 10-year prison sentence the Jamaican reggae singer is serving on two drug charges. Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, is set to appear Tuesday in Tampa federal court for a re-sentencing on a gun possession charge. That charge carries an additional five-year prison sentence. The motion filed last week includes a letter to U.S. District Judge James Moody from Banton's former attorney, David O. Markus. Markus represented Banton in the singer's two trials in Tampa in 2010 and 2011. He says Banton is eligible for a reduced sentence of five years and a day because he's a first-time, non-violent offender with "the support of his entire country" and a history of charitable works.


'Argo' claims No. 1 with $12.4 million
Ben Affleck’s C.I.A. thriller Argo is having quite the box office run. After debuting at number two with $19.5 million, Warner Bros.’ Oscar contender dropped by just 16 percent last weekend to $16.4 million. This weekend, the film notched yet another impressive achievement: it climbed to number one with an estimated $12.4 million in its third frame, becoming the first film since True Grit to hop to first place in its third weekend. The pricey novel adaptation Cloud Atlas finished in third place with a weak $9.4 million. Remarkably, that was the best start of any of this weekend’s newcomers, which is a testament to the weakness of the frame.
1. Argo – $12.4 million
2. Hotel Transylvania – $9.5 million
3. Cloud Atlas – $9.4 million
4. Paranormal Activity 4 – $8.7 million
5. Taken 2 – $8.0 million

Whitney Houston inheritance going to Bobbi Kristina as planned

Although the two executors of Whitney Houston's will, Cissy and Pat Houston, had tried to adjust the way the late singer's daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, will receive her mother's inheritance, she'll now get the money as her mother intended. The co-executors filed legal papers to change the way 19-year-old Bobbi Kristina would inherit her mother's $20 million fortune so it wasn't "too much, too soon," but the case was dismissed after the parties came to an agreement. Apparently, the new deal is almost identical to the way Whitney had planned it. Bobbi Krisitina will get 10 percent when she turns 21, around $2 million, then a little less than 20 percent when she turns 25, or around $4 million, and the rest, around $16 million, when she turns 30.

Addicted
Boris Kodjoe ("Resident Evil: Retribution") has joined the cast of Billie Woodruff's "Addicted" at Lionsgate. The story follows a woman in a perfectly quaint marriage who begins having affairs to satisfying her addiction to sex.

A Many Splintered Thing
Luke Wilson ("Old School") will join the likes of Chris Evans, Michelle Monaghan and Anthony Mackie in "A Many Splintered Thing". The story follows a disillusioned young man pretending to be a philanthropist who falls for a woman at a charity dinner. He feigns a platonic relationship to keep seeing her.
 Actor Orlando Brown is facing arrest after allegedly failing to show up for a court hearing. The former "That's So Raven" star was due to appear before a judge earlier this month to give an update on his court-ordered alcohol education classes stemming from a plea deal over a 2011 DUI conviction. However, Brown failed to appear and a judge issued a warrant for his arrest on Tuesday. The alleged no-show marks the third time Brown has failed to turn up for a scheduled court date -- he was arrested in May over a similar issue and a previous bench warrant was issued for him in July over another missed hearing.

Levi Johnston marries Sunny Oglesby in Alaska

Levi Johnston has tied the knot with girlfriend Sunny Oglesby in Alaska on Sunday, Oct. 28. The couple welcomed daughter Breeze Beretta Johnston last month, Johnston's second child. He has a son, Tripp, with ex-girlfriend Bristol Palin. The couple were married in front of more than 100 friends and family, but Tripp was not present.

TV NEWS
At least there’s plenty of material for monologues. Jimmy Kimmel Live will still film this week’s shows at the Brooklyn Academy of Music starting Monday, as scheduled, despite Hurricane Sandy. “We are bringing in back-up generators and will be able to do our show in the event of a power failure,” a rep for the show says in a statement. “We are also flying staff and crew out earlier to beat the storm. We have had no audience drop-outs so far despite news of the storm.” Earlier today, New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo ordered the suspension of all subway, bus and commuter railroad service starting at 7 p.m. ET Sunday. Scheduled guests include Chris Rock, Kelly Ripa, and Alicia Keys on Oct. 29; Howard Stern, Tracy Morgan, and Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings on Oct. 30; David Letterman and Vampire Weekend on Oct. 31; and Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, and the Avett Brothers featuring the Brooklyn Philharmonic on Nov. 1. Guests for Nov. 2 are still to be announced.


G4 has opted to end two of its long-running series, Attack of the Show and X-Play. Both series will continue production through the end of the year, airing their respective final installments in December.


West Wing alum Bradley Whitford is getting hitched to the ABC comedy pilot Trophy Wife. The Emmy-winning actor will star opposite Malin Akerman in the single-camera project, which centers on a reformed party girl (Akerman) who finds herself in an insta-family when she falls in love with a man (Whitford) with three manipulative kids and two judgmental ex-wives.


A badass and a baby bro are once again Good Wife-bound. Anika Noni Rose and Dallas Roberts are slated to return to the CBS drama during its current fourth season. The soon-to-be Walking Dead actor will resurface as Alicia’s younger brother during Stockard Channing‘s debut outing as their mother, while Rose — who now recurs on Private Practice — will reprise her role as a ruthless prosecutor rejoining the fold for a case. Though Rose is currently only signed on for one Wife installment, EP Robert King says that “it could extend to three.”


Louis CK has postponed his Oct. 28 standup show in New York City because of the threat of Hurricane Sandy. “I thought about this very carefully and I really started to worry about making 4300 people come into midtown manhattan on Sunday night, which is just when the stormatron 5000 is supposed to crush our empire.  new york state has ordered the sutdown of all mass transit (subways, buses and commuter trains) as of 7pm Sunday night. The comedian added that the show will be rescheduled for March 2, and tickets for tonight will be honored at that time.


Showing faith in yet another of his long-time Office actors, Greg Daniels has tapped Brian Baumgartner to star in his untitled ABC comedy pilot. The Dunder Mifflin vet will headline the single-camera project, which centers on a mid-level airline executive desperate to win again — at anything.

Ryan Cartwright is headed to the CBS sitcom this fall as Penny’s new pal. Turns out, the aspiring actress will go back to school this season (Thursdays, 8/7c) and will befriend a few of her classmates — including Cartwright’s character — along the way. Leonard, however, won’t be too fond of his girlfriend’s new guy friend. In addition to his current role on Alphas, Cartwright has enjoyed lengthy arcs on both Bones and Mad Men.

Lil Wayne rushed to hospital after private jet's emergency landing

Lil Wayne was rushed to the hospital after suffering a medical emergency while flying on a private jet. The plane made an emergency landing in Texas, where Wayne was taken to the hospital for treatment. The rapper was suffering "seizure-like symptoms" before the emergency landing. Although it's not clear whether he is still in the Lonestar State, sources say that he's "doing better." Wayne recently performed the classic "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the seventh inning stretch of the Oct. 21 playoff baseball game between the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals. The Giants won the game, and are currently battling the Detroit Tigers for the World Series title.
 Another 'NSync-er is off the market! On a pre-planned birthday trip to Italy, Chris Kirkpatrick surprised his girlfriend of two and a half years, marketing rep Karly Skladany. Though Kirkpatrick, 41, hadn't planned to pop the question, he says he got caught up in the moment. "We had a hotel room at the Isle of Capri, overlooking the Mediterranean," he says. "It was one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. And it hit me: I wanted to propose to Karly. So I ran to a jewelry store, found the perfect ring and bought it." Although there has been speculation that Kirkpatrick and his 'NSync bandmates were snubbed by not being invited to Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel's fabulous Italian wedding, Kirkpatrick says the rumors are overblown and there are no hard feelings.

Barbara Walters to Donald Trump: 'You're making a fool of yourself'

Following Donald Trump's big "announcement" wherein he dangled $5 million in charitable donations in front of President Obama in exchange for the president releasing college applications/records and passport records, newswoman Barbara Walters has told the Donald to knock it off. She says on "The View" Thursday (Oct. 25): "Donald, you and I have known each other for many years. And you know I am your friend and I think you are a brilliant businessman. You are great on television, and you have a fascinating personality. But Donald, you're making a fool of yourself. You are not hurting Obama, you're hurting Donald, and that hurts me, because you're a decent man. Stop it. Get off it, Donald." Donald took to Twitter to respond to Babs:

• @BarbaraJWalters @theviewtv Barbara, unfortunately you've missed the entire point of my announcement--you just don't get it!
• @BarbaraJWalters @theviewtv will apologize to me just like she did when I was right about @Rosie. Besides, I get great ratings on The View.
• @BarbaraJWalters @theviewtv--Why did you choose me as one of the 10 Most Fascinating People of the Year last season (and more than once?)

He says that Barbara has "missed the entire point," but if she has, then so has most of the world. What, exactly, is the point?

Arnold to star as Conan the Barbarian again

Arnold Schwarzenegger will once again play Conan the Barbarian on the big screen. Yes, you heard that correctly. Thirty years after he made an impact as Robert E. Howard's mythic Cimmerian character, the 65-year-old star will return to his seminal film role in "The Legend of Conan." "I always loved the Conan character and I'm honored to be asked to step into the role once again," Arnold says  "I can't wait to work with Universal and the great team of Fredrik Malmberg and Chris Morgan to develop the next step of this truly epic story." Malmberg provides insight into the new movie, saying, "The original ended with Arnold on the throne as a seasoned warrior, and this is the take of the film we will make. It's that Nordic Viking mythic guy who has played the role of king, warrior, soldier and mercenary, and who has bedded more women than anyone, nearing the last cycle of his life. He knows he'll be going to Valhalla, and wants to go out with a good battle." Meanwhile, Morgan calls the new movie "Conan's Unforgiven," saying, "This movie picks up Conan where Arnold is now in his life, and we will be able to use the fact that he has aged in this story. I love the property of Conan so much that I wouldn't touch it unless we came up with something worthy. We think this is a worthy successor to the original film."

 Let the songwriting begin. After an intense couple months of dating, Taylor Swift and Conor Kennedy have broken up, a close friend of the country singer says. "They quietly parted ways a while ago," the friend explains of the "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" crooner, 22, and the high school senior, 18. "It was just a distance thing. No hard feelings. They're fine." First spotted with the six-time Grammy winner at the Kennedy family compound in Hyannisport, Mass., in July, Conor is the son of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the late Mary Kennedy. But despite Swift's speedy summertime bond with her new man and his brood, the romance had to take a backseat to Swift's work duties. (Her new album, "Red," was just released this week with record-breaking sales and widespread critical acclaim.) "It's been over a month since they've even seen each other," the friend explains. "With her promotion for 'Red,' she has no time off until the end of the year."

Shakira, Pique sex tape being shopped

Spanish and Latin American outlets are reporting that a sex tape involving singer Shakira and Barcelona star defender Gerard Pique is being shopped. Rumors about the tape have swirled for weeks — and representatives for Shakira have repeatedly denied its existence, but Spanish magazine Intervieu reports that a Barcelona talent agent was offered the tape for sale. According to the magazine, the talent agent claims: “The video lasts about 15 minutes….it’s filmed with a cell phone, which I guess, belonged to Shakira’s employee who was at the helm of the boat that night. The images are not steady and it’s out of focus.” Mexico’s TV Notas also reported that the tape was made by one of Shakira’s employees, who is using it to blackmail the singer. The woman who famously sang “Hips Don’t Lie” has been the subject of sex tape rumors before. Tapes of her and former beaus Antonia de la Rua and Alejando Sanz purportedly exist, though no images have ever come to light. Former employees recently sued the Colombian singer in the past, claiming she fired them for failing to prepare her food in the middle of the night. Shakira's lawyer Ezequiel A. Camerini refuted the claims to Colombia's newspaper El Espectador. "There is clear evidence of intentions to defame and cause harm to my client by taking advantage of her public persona and spotless personal reputation in exchange for money."

The Following
Fox have announced a Monday, January 21st 9pm premiere date for their anticipated new drama "The Following" starring Kevin Bacon and James Purefoy. The story follows an FBI agent who finds himself in the middle of a network of serial killers when a diabolical serial killer uses special technology to create them.

Star Trek Into Darkness
Original "A Nightmare on Elm Street" star Heather Langenkamp has confirmed she plays a small and undisclosed role in J.J. Abrams' upcoming sequel "Star Trek Into Darkness". Langenkamp also revealed that she and her husband worked on the film's makeup effects.

 Brandon T. Jackson ("Tropic Thunder," "Big Momma's House 3") is apparently in final negotiations to play the son of Axel Foley in the new "Beverly Hills Cop" television series at CBS. The series continuation of the popular film franchise revolves around blue-collar cop Aaron Foley who is trying to escape the shadow of his father (Eddie Murphy) who is now Chief Of Police in Detroit.


Rob the Mob
Former "Boardwalk Empire" star Michael Pitt has scored the lead role in Raymond De Felitta's crime thriller "Rob The Mob". Nina Arianda will also star. Based on a true story, the story follows a couple who target and rob some of New York’s biggest mobsters. Knocking over the underground clubs, the two stumble across something much bigger than they expected.


Palo Alto
Nat Wolff ("The Naked Brothers Band") has scored a leading role in the dark indie "Palo Alto" based on a collection of short stories by James Franco. The story follows a group of teenagers who have little to do except get into trouble. Wolff plays a gangly teen with a history of getting into car accidents after smoking pot with his pals. Francis Ford Coppola's granddaughter Gia Coppola adapted the script and is directing.

 TV journalist Lisa Ling announced that she and her husband, physician and biotech firm president Paul Song, are set to welcome their first child, a daughter. Ling, whose documentary series, Our America, airs on OWN, first revealed her baby news — and a sonogram — Wednesday on Anderson Cooper‘s daytime talk show, Anderson Live. It’s a happy moment for Ling, 39, who shared her heartbreak over a miscarriage in 2010. “I felt more like a failure than I’d felt in a very long time,” Ling, said at the time of losing her pregnancy at seven weeks. “When I heard the doctor say there was no heartbeat it was like bam, like a knife through the heart.”


Joe and Tina Simpson File for Divorce
Jessica Simpson's parents Tina and Joe Simpson have filed for divorce, a rep for the family says. But that is where the headline-worthy news about the Simpson clan ends, says the rep. "It is an amicable split and there is no third party involved," says the rep. "Any other related allegations are completely false. The family appreciates your respect for their privacy at this time." Tina, 52, and 54-year-old Joe – a manager and former minister who is often referred to as "Papa Joe" – are also parents to Ashlee Simpson and have two grandchildren between their daughters.
 Portman's new Dior's Diorshow New Look lash-multiplying mascara has reportedly been banned in the U.K. by the Advertising Standards Authority, a watchdog organization. the ad was nixed for allegedly "misleadingly exaggerating the effects of the product." The actress's individual lashes were reportedly retouched "for a more stylized, uniform and tidy effect." The ASA reportedly found no fault with the image in itself, but said that placed alongside the ad's verbal claims, the retouching could possibly have led to unrealistic expectations for potential customers. The ad cannot be published in the U.K. again until clarifications are made.

Sean Lowe in car accident during 'Bachelor' filming

New "Bachelor" Sean Lowe is safe after a car accident during production on Monday. The Texas native is currently in the middle of filming the ninth season of the dating show, where his romantic getaways with the single ladies have reportedly taken him to Colorado and Canada.  Lowe became a fan favorite during "Bachelorette" Emily Maynard's season when she sent him home as the third-place finisher, but he is hoping to find love again with the new batch of women.

 Vivica A. Fox has mocked Stacey Dash after she endorsed presidential candidate Mitt Romney by donning a sexy swimsuit to promote his campaign. The "Clueless" star has received a barrage of criticism for backing Romney instead of Barack Obama ahead of next month's election, and she recently opened up about how she was "saddened and shocked" by the backlash over her political leanings. Now her "Getting Played" co-star Fox has also lambasted Dash for deciding to show her allegiance to the Republican nominee by posing in a red swimsuit for a political shoot. She tells news site TheGrio, "I didn't know she was a Republican. I will start there. Second, I don't know why she had to do a photo shoot in a Baywatch red swimsuit with the boobs and the whole flag behind her. And she doesn't have a job or something to promote right now. I just didn't get it. Most politicians when you support them, you try to support them with class. You don't need to do a swimsuit shoot."

TV NEWS
Garcelle Beauvais won’t be back for Franklin & Bash‘s Season 3. The actress tweeted the news Wednesday, saying, “Just found out that I’m not being asked back on @franklinandbash #stunned.” Beauvais joined the TNT legal dramedy in its first season. She played Hannah Linden, an Infield Daniels powerhouse and Karp’s ex. Beauvais will appear as a love interest for Psych‘s Dulé Hill in the USA comedy’s upcoming Season 7, which bows in February.


Nia Long (Third Watch) and Larenz Tate (Rescue Me) have booked recurring roles in the upcoming second season of House of Lies (bowing Jan. 13). Tate will play the younger brother of Don Cheadle’s Marty, while Long joins as a former classmate and new foe for the leading man.
 Freda Foh Shen (Everwood, Close to Home) will pay a visit to CBS’ Elementary as Joan Watson’s mother. Mary Watson appears in Episode 9, slated to air Dec. 13, and she’s not very happy about her daughter’s choice of profession. As established in the pilot, Lucy Liu‘s Joan “doesn’t feel a tremendous amount of support from [her parents] when it comes to her second career as a sober companion.”


Guys With Kids isn’t going anywhere just yet. NBC has ordered five additional scripts for the Jimmy Fallon-produced sitcom. Meanwhile, Ernie Hudson (Ghostbusters) has been cast as the father of Tempestt Bledsoe’s Marney.

The Vampire Diaries has cast erstwhile Supernatural baddie Rick Worthy as Bonnie’s estranged father. He’ll first appear in Episode 10 of the current fourth season.

TNT has a Halloween-season treat for Supernatural fans: a 24-hour marathon of the creepiest episodes from the first six seasons. The line-up kicks off Saturday, Oct. 27 at noon EST and includes the likes of “I Believe the Children Are Our Future,” “Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid” and “Monster Movie.”


Fox has released its midseason schedule, and it details the premiere dates and time slots for the new Kevin Bacon-fronted serial killer thriller The Following, Season 12 of American Idol and Season 2 of Kiefer Sutherland’s Touch. American Idol — featuring a retooled judging panel that now includes Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban (as well as, yawn, Randy Jackson) — will launch with with a two-night debut on Wednesday, Jan. 16 (8-10 pm) and Thursday, Jan. 17 (8-9 pm). Touch, which was originally slated to return this fall, will take over Fringe‘s Friday-at-9 perch on Feb. 1. (Fringe will wrap its 13-episode final season in January.) The Following — starring Bacon as an FBI agent hunting down a serial killer (played by James Purefoy) — launches on Monday, Jan. 21 at 9/8c, presumably replacing the struggling Mob Doctor.

 Judging by their wedding photo, Justin Timberlake was more than ready to jump into his new life with Jessica Biel, springing airborne with joy. When the couple of five years exchanged personal vows in a romantic Italian ceremony Oct. 19, "it was a really special evening," Timberlake, 31, tells PEOPLE in this week's cover story, in which the newlyweds open up for the first time about their special day and share exclusive photos. "It was a total fantasy experience," adds Biel, 30. One cause for emotion? The singer-actor played the guitar and serenaded his beautiful bride-to-be as she walked down the aisle in a custom, petal pink Giambattista Valli Haute Couture gown. "It was an original piece I wrote specifically for the evening and for her," says Timberlake, who wore a Tom Ford tux he helped design. The pair welcomed 100 guests, including close friends Jimmy Fallon, Andy Samberg, Timbaland and Biel's 7th Heaven costar Beverley Mitchell, to the Borgo Egnazia resort in southern Italy for a week-long wedding celebration. "It was a lot to ask of them to travel, so we figured we'd give our guests a good party!" says Timberlake. For Justin and Jessica's exclusive wedding album – from the bride's special "something borrowed" to the couple's dance moves – pick up this week's issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday

 

Autopsy fails to explain why Tony Scott jumped from bridge

An autopsy report on director Tony Scott shed no light on why the filmmaker took his own life this summer by jumping off a bridge. The L.A. County coroner's report said Scott appeared to have had no major health problems, and coroner's officials said interviews with family members and friends did not reveal a possible motive. The coroner's office determined that the 68-year-old died of multiple blunt-force injuries after leaping from the Vincent Thomas Bridge on Aug. 19. The director had therapeutic levels of the sleep aid Lunestra and the anti-depressant Mirtazipine, also known as Remeron, in his system, toxicology tests showed. Chief coroner's investigator Craig Harvey said there was no indication of pre-existing conditions in Scott, based on both the autopsy and medical records.  "There was no evidence of neoplasia — cancer — identified," Harvey said.  After Scott's death, some media reports quoted an anonymous source suggesting that Scott had a brain tumor. His family vehemently denied those reports. Several of Scott's associates told The Times that the director had mentioned back or hip problems in the months before his death, but many said they had no indication it was anything other than business as normal for the director-producer.


Arrested for DUI ... Again

Bobby Brown was just arrested for DUI for the second time this year. Brown was pulled over around 1AM when police observed the singer driving erratically on an L.A. street.According to law enforcement sources, officers approached Brown's vehicle and detected a strong odor of alcohol -- at which point they asked Brown to get out of his car. Brown performed a field sobriety test, but didn't do very well -- so he was arrested on suspicion of DUI. He's currently being booked. Brown was previously arrested for DUI in March and sought treatment for alcohol abuse issues over the summer. He also has a DUI conviction on his record from 1996.

 Prince Guillaume of Luxembourg wed Belgian Countess Stephanie de Lannoy in a lavish two-day celebration that had many familiar traditions over the weekend. Prince Guillaume, 30, is the last hereditary prince in Europe to tie the knot, and the royal family was out in full force – and fabulous fascinators – to wish the prince and his 28-year-old bride the best. Before their religious ceremony at Luxembourg's Notre Dame Cathedral, the couple exchanged vows during a civil ceremony at city hall. Following their grand ceremony, Prince Guillaume and his new princess pleased cheering crowds – much like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge – with a kiss on the balcony.


Danny DeVito Cheated On Wife With Extras
Danny DeVito's penchant for cheating on his wife Rhea Pearlman with extras led to the unraveling of the pair's marriage. A rep for the couple announced earlier this week that their 30-year marriage and 40-year relationship was coming to an end. According to several sources DeVito had a penchant for constantly cheating with young extras from his films and television shows with promises to make them stars. The report claims that Perlman was allegedly fed up with DeVito’s “flirty and inappropriate ways” and gave him the boot.
 Eva Longoria is single again. The former Desperate Housewives star, 37, and New York Jets quarterback, Mark Sanchez, 25, have ended their brief relationship, a source confirmed. "Eva and Mark split amicably and remain friends," the insider says of the pair, who were spotted frequently together over the summer. "There is no drama." A rep for Longoria is not commenting. Longoria previously dated Eduardo Cruz, and Sanchez was linked earlier this year to supermodel Kate Upton.


Jack Ryan
David Paymer has been cast as an American diplomat in Kenneth Branagh's "Jack Ryan" reboot at Paramount Pictures. Branagh, Chris Pine, Keira Knightley and Kevin Costner star in the film which is set in Ryan's pre-CIA days and has him serving as a stockbroker working for a Moscow billionaire.


Grace of Monaco
British acting legend Derek Jacobi has joined Olivier Dahan's currently shooting "Grace of Monaco" starring Nicole Kidman, Tim Roth, Frank Langella and Parker Posey. Jacobi will play Count Fernando D'Aillieres, a flamboyant aristocrat and expert on all-things-Monaco who helped transform Kelly from an American movie star to a refined princess.
 Not only is James Franco 12 years older than his reported new love, Ashley Benson, but the actor met her while she was still with her former boyfriend -- Justin Bieber's BFF Ryan Good. The "Pretty Little Liars" star, 22, was dating Good before getting together with Franco, 34, whom she met on the set of their upcoming movie, "Spring Breakers." And now their co-star and Bieber's girl, Selena Gomez, is apparently furious. "Selena feels used and kind of punched in the face seeing as though she got Ashley the role and Ashley just used the opportunity to break her friend's heart," an insider revealed.  "After Emma Roberts turned down the role because she didn't want to gain weight for it, Ashley practically begged Selena to get her in front of producers for the part. She did, because she thought they were all friends, but it was clear early on that Ashley had something going on with James," the source added. Good allegedly started to notice a shift in Benson's feelings for him once she started shooting the flick, but Bieber's bud didn't think she was considering ending their relationship ... until Benson became too busy to spend time with him.  "Once the shoot wrapped, Ashley told Ryan they needed to 'slow down' and then booked a flight to New York City to go see James' art gallery showing," the insider adds, saying Gomez and Bieber didn't know what to tell Good.  Rumors of Benson and Franco's romance sparked when the couple were spotted wandering around New York City earlier this month. Then, suspicions were confirmed when they were seen holding hands at the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride.


The Starving Games
Brant Daugherty ("Pretty Little Liars") has scored one of the lead roles in the spoof "The Starving Games" from "Date Movie" and "Epic Movie" writer/directors Jason Friedberg and Aaron Seltzer.Daughtery's character is a brooding teen heartthrob in the mold of Liam Hemsworth's character Gale in "The Hunger Games." Shooting kicks off early next month in New Orleans.
  Tamera Mowry-Housley is waiting the birth of her first child, due any day now. Best known for her roles on Sister, Sister and Strong Medicine, the actress currently stars on Tia & Tamera, airing Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on Style. She’s also working on a novel with twin sister Tia and recently wrapped filming on GMC’s Christmas Angel. Mowry-Housley, 34, wed FOX News correspondent Adam Housley in May 2011 in Napa Valley. Due Oct. 30 with their first child, the couple learned in June that they’re expecting a boy. You can find her on Twitter @TameraMowryTwo.

Jay-Z, Beyonce lose trademark battle for 'Blue Ivy' name 

Even Jay-Z and Beyonce can't have it all. The hip-hop hotshots may have President Barack Obama's friendship on their side, but the pair officially lost the trademark battle for name "Blue Ivy" this past weekend.  Jay and Bey initially tried to trademark the name in January, shortly after daughter Blue Ivy's birth. The power couple filed the petition because Beyonce hoped to one day start a line of children's clothing. Boston event planning firm Blue Ivy vs. Blue Ivy Events in turn defended its right to use the name, which they'd had since 2009. And ultimately, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office ruled in favor of the event company, siding with the company's owner, Veronica Alexandra. Not that the case left a bad taste in the event owner's mouth.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's Kids Pax and Zahara Cast in Maleficent

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's children are following in their famous footsteps and heading to the big screen! Two months after a rep for Walt Disney Studios confirmed 4-year-old Vivienne Jolie-Pitt will play the child version of Elle Fanning's Princess Aurora in the live-action movie Maleficent. Two of the A-list couple's other children, Pax, 8, and Zahara, 7, will also appear in the fantasy flick; a rep for Disney had no comment.

James Blunt Announces He is Retiring

The English singer-songwriter is best known for his 2005 debut album Back to Bedlam and singles “You’re Beautiful” and “Goodbye My Lover.” Despite his album selling 11 million copies, the 38-year-old said that he is leaving the music industry and has no plans to return, saying “I just want to take some time out for myself. I haven’t got any plans to do more songwriting. I have been chilling out since I finished my world tour and I’ve spent a lot of time in Ibiza, where I have a villa.” Blunt said that he decided to leave the music industry after taking his first summer off in seven years with model girlfriend Sofia Wellesley: “Sofia and I had a great time hanging out with friends on my yacht but we partied as well,” he added. “I do like a good night out and that is why it’s great fun to hang out at Barbarella. London needs more nightclubs like this.” Blunt was an officer in the Life Guards, a cavalry regiment of the British Army, and served under NATO in Kosovo during the 1999 conflict there. He has also been the subject of media interest, particularly in the tabloid press. His mother defended him recently against the criticism he receives in the press: “I was most interested to hear Pete Waterman’s thoughts on public school rock stars,” Jane Blount said in an email to Radio 4. “His attitude is reflected by most of the critics in the UK. My son James Blunt, who is hugely appreciated worldwide, receives harsh criticism here and we have, rather sadly, been aware that it is because of his background.” Blunt’s most recent album, Some Kind Of Trouble, was released in 2010.

 Less than two months after they got engaged on the finale of Bachelor Pad 3, Blakeley Jones and Tony Pieper have gone their separate ways. "This didn't end the way I wanted it to," Pieper says. "I thought Blakeley was the love of my life." Pieper, who competed for Emily Maynard's heart on The Bachelorette, met Jones, from Ben Flajnik's season of The Bachelor, on the third installment of Bachelor Pad. The pair became partners, cozied up on several romantic dates and by the finale, Pieper shocked fans and viewers by proposing with a Neil Lane engagement ring. Soon after, Jones moved to Pieper's native Portland where the trouble began. "It was like a fairy tale at first when we were on the show and afterward," he says. "It was like a vacation – we were in the honeymoon stage. Then when she moved here, it was really difficult for both of us. Blakeley had to start over a new life – there were so many stresses. The honeymoon stage drifted away. We were both going through the motions and we weren't as happy as we could have been. It was a mutual decision [to end our relationship]." "I really hope we'll stay friends," Pieper says. "Right now, it's really hard. But I'll always love her."


TV NEWS
CBS seems to like Vegas‘ odds. The period crime drama, as well as the modern Sherlock Holmes tale Elementary, received full-season pickups from the Eye network.

The CW has picked up Arrow for a full, 22-episode season


CBS’ The Good Wife is adding Grey’s Anatomy alum T.R. Knight to its impressive roster of guest stars. Knight will play a political operative in an episode to air later this season.  Since vacating his role as Grey’s Anatomy doc Dr. George O’Malley in 2009, at the end of Season 5, Knight has only tackled one TV series gig — an October 2011 installment of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit — while focusing on his stage work.


BBC America has renewed its breakout original series Copper for a 13-episode second season.


Mark-Paul Gosselaar has been cast as Max’s “new mysterious roommate” named Chase on ABC’s Happy Endings. Gosselaar, who also appears on TNT’s recently renewed Franklin & Bash, will guest in episode 10 of the new season, which returns for a new season tomorrow.


Simon Cowell’s shakeup of The X Factor is paying dividends. Fox has ordered a third season of the reality singing competition.

The terrorists continue to win: Showtime has picked up Homeland for a 12-episode third season.


ABC Family is kicking off 2013 with brand new episodes of Pretty Little Liars, The Lying Game, Bunheads and Switched at Birth. Switched will launch its second season on Monday, Jan. 7 at 8/7c, followed by the return of freshman drama Bunheads at 9/8c.  PLL, meanwhile, will continue its third season on Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 8/7c, leading into the Season 2 premiere of Lying Game at 9/8c.


Emily Thorne’s partner in Revenge is sticking around the Hamptons. The ABC drama has upped Barry Sloane, who plays fellow Takeda disciple Aiden, to series regular status.

"Chuck" and "Firefly" star Adam Baldwin will replace Titus Welliver in the Michael Bay-produced TNT drama pilot "The Last Ship". Welliver has been forced to leave because of a family health emergency.  The story centers on the crew of a naval destroyer who, after a global catastrophe decimates the Earth’s population, are forced to confront the reality of their new existence in a world where they are among the only survivors.


Fox’s The Mindy Project, meanwhile, already received a full-season order earlier this month– but that freshman run is now bigger. Fox has ordered two additional episodes, bringing the good doc’s first cycle to 24 episodes.


Former LA Complex resident Chelan Simmons has booked a two-episode guest spot on How I Met Your Mother. She will play Brandi, a new sports reporter at Robin’s workplace, World Wide News.


Not everybody loves Raymond — namely Betsy Brandt.The Breaking Bad actress has booked a guest spot on an upcoming episode of Parenthood playing the ex-wife of Ray Romano’s increasingly loveable Hank Rizzoli.


Old Spice Guy/Chuck alum Isaiah Mustafa will guest-star in USA Network’s Denis Leary-produced pilot Sirens, TVLine has learned exclusively. The paramedic comedy centers on three Chicago-based EMTs (Michael Mosley, Kevin Daniels and Kevin Bigley) who are brilliant at their jobs, but not-so-smart when it comes to life, love and everything that comes with it. Mustafa will play Danny, a gorgeous new partner for cop Theresa (Jessica McNamee).


Both Last Resort, which this Thursday inched up 6 percent after two weeks of slippage, and 666 Park Avenue, which has dipped each week since its debut, have received orders for two additional scripts. While that is well shy of receiving a full-season (or “back 9″) pick-up, it at the very least serves as an indicator that a network has faith enough to see where a new show might be headed.


Tonight's Premieres:Lifetime: The Houstons: On Our Own at 9p
Halogen TV: Drum Heads at 9p
Logo: DTLA at 11p
Tonight's Finale:Syfy: Paranormal Witness at 10p

Adele Welcomes a Son
Adele is officially rolling in the diapers! The British singing sensation, 24, is now Mum to a baby boy, a family source confirmed. In June, Adele posted a message on her web site announcing that she was expecting a baby with her boyfriend, Simon Konecki. “Obviously we’re over the moon and very excited but please respect our privacy at this precious time,” she wrote. Even as the Grammy winner thrilled fans with the recent release of new material, the James Bond theme song “Skyfall,” Adele was “totally laying low and nesting,” a source recently said “She is just thrilled [about becoming a mom].”
 Former Cuban leader Fidel Castro said he doesn't even suffer from a headache in an article he published in state-media Monday criticizing those who spread rumors he was on his death bed. The article is accompanied by photos taken by son Alex Castro that show the 86-year-old revolutionary icon standing outside near some trees wearing a checked shirt and cowboy hat, including one in which he is seen reading Friday's copy of the Communist Party newspaper Granma. "I don't even remember what a headache feels like," Castro claims, adding that he was releasing the photos to show "how dishonest" the rumor mongers have been. The article was published on the state-run Cubadebate Web site early Monday. It is the latest evidence the former Cuban president is alive and seemingly well after more than a week of intense speculation he was seriously ill. Twitter and other social media sites have been abuzz with claims of Castro's demise. On Sunday, a visiting former Venezuelan vice president released a photo of a meeting he said he had the previous day with Castro, and a hotel manager also present for part of the meeting claimed Castro's health was "magnificent." In the article Monday, Castro says he has been dealing with disinformation about Cuba since the Bay of Pigs invasion of 1961. He criticized Western media he said are in the pocket of the rich, and singled out Spain's ABC newspaper for publishing comments by a Venezuelan doctor who claimed to have information that Castro had suffered a stroke and had weeks to live. Castro has been out of the public eye since March, when he received visiting Pope Benedict XVI. He also stopped writing his once constant opinion pieces, called "Reflections," the last of which was published in June.

 Former Bachelor star Melissa Rycroft was rushed to a Los Angeles hospital Sunday afternoon after suffering a head and neck injury during rehearsals for Monday's Dancing with the Stars episode. "Melissa was taken by ambulance to a local hospital where she is currently being examined," Rycroft's rep says. "She was accompanied to the hospital by her husband, Tye Strickland, and her dance partner, Tony Dovolani. Everyone is taking all necessary precautions at this time." Rycroft fell while doing camera blocking for Monday's group number at CBS studios. She is one of eight remaining celebrities competing on the all-stars edition of the ballroom dance competition. There is no word on whether Rycroft will be able to compete on Monday, when the couples are expected to dance twice, performing an individual routine and a team freestyle routine.

Justin Timberlake Calls Wedding Day 'Magical'

There was no shortage of romance for Justin Timberlake and his beautiful bride Jessica Biel when they tied the knot Friday at the Borgo Egnazia resort in Puglia, Italy. "It was magical," Timberlake, 31, tells PEOPLE exclusively. "It was an unforgettable evening." Surrounded by close friends and family, the pair became husband and wife after days of pre-wedding celebrations leading up to the event. "It was a fantasy," Biel, 30, tells PEOPLE of the nuptials, which will be featured exclusively in this week's PEOPLE magazine, debuting online Wednesday. Italy – a special location for the couple partly because of their love for its food and wine – served as the perfect backdrop for the festivities, which began earlier in the week. On Thursday, the bride and groom hosted a party for guests who hung out around open fires and dined on fresh-made cheese, local olives and wine. The night before, the group celebrated at a beach where they watched fireworks and listened to live music.
  From "whatever" to wedded – Clueless star Elisa Donovan has tied the knot. The actress married Charlie Bigelow on Saturday in Carmel, Calif. Among their 150 guests: True Blood's Sam Trammell and his longtime love Missy Yager, Bruce Ferber, executive producer of Donovan's sitcom Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, and one very special little lady – the couple's infant daughter, Scarlett Avery.

Armstrong banned for life, stripped of seven Tour titles
Cycling's governing body agreed Monday to strip Lance Armstrong of his seven Tour de France titles and ban him for life, following a report from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency that accused him of leading a massive doping program on his teams. Speaking from Geneva, International Cycling Union President Pat McQuaid confirmed to a news conference that UCI had decided to uphold USADA'S decision to strip Armstrong of his Tour titles. "Lance Armstrong has no place in cycling," McQuaid said. Now it is the turn of Tour de France organizers to have their say as the race prepares to celebrate its 100th edition next year.Armstrong won consecutive Tours from 1999-2005. Tour de France director Christian Prudhomme said earlier the Tour will have no official winners for the seven races Armstrong won if he is stripped of his victories by the UCI.  USADA has said the Tour titles should not be given to other riders who finished on the podium. The agency said 20 of the 21 riders on the podium in the Tour from 1999 through 2005 have been "directly tied to likely doping through admissions, sanctions, public investigations" or other means. It added that of the 45 riders on the podium between 1996 and 2010, 36 were by cyclists "similarly tainted by doping." USADA has said Armstrong should be banned and stripped of his Tour de France his titles for what the agency called "the most sophisticated, professionalized and successful doping program that sport has ever seen" within his U.S. Postal Service and Discovery Channel teams.  The USADA report said Armstrong and his teams used steroids, the blood booster EPO and blood transfusions. The report included statements from 11 former teammates who testified against Armstrong. Armstrong denies doping, pointing to hundreds of passed drug tests. But he chose not to fight USADA in one of the agency's arbitration hearings, saying the process was biased against him. Former Armstrong team director Johan Bruyneel is also facing doping charges, but he is challenging the USADA case in arbitration.
 After fighting to save their marriage for the last six months, Dennis Quaid and Kimberly Buffington-Quaid are calling it quits once more, with Kimberly filing for legal separation. "Kimberly and Dennis Quaid have decided to legally separate after 8 years of marriage. They ask that their privacy and the privacy of their family be respected during this difficult time," a rep for the actor said Friday. The former real estate agent had filed for divorce in March, saying in papers that things between them had "become insupportable because of discord or conflict of personalities." In late April, however, she put the divorce on hold, pulling the papers so the couple could work on their marriage. This will be the second divorce for the Vegas star, 58, who was previously married to Meg Ryan. In papers, Kimberly says Quaid should get visitation with their 4-year-old twins.

'Blue Bloods' Jennifer Esposito accuses CBS of 'shameful behavior' after report of departure

Jennifer Esposito, who plays Donnie Wahlberg’s partner on the CBS cop drama Blue Bloods, blasted the network on Twitter on Saturday for allegedly misrepresenting the circumstances that have prompted a leave of absence from the show. The tweets came quickly after it was reported that Esposito was no longer at work on Blue Bloods (now in its third season) and that her last appearance will be in the episode scheduled to air on November 2. The story initially made no mention of tensions between Esposito and CBS Studios, which produces Blue Bloods. In a statement, CBS Studios said: “Jennifer has informed us that she is only available to work on a very limited part-time schedule. As a result, she’s unable to perform the demands of her role and we regretfully had to put her character on a leave of absence.” In a series of Tweets that began Saturday evening, Esposito — who suffers from Celiac disease – accused CBS of sidelining her for more dubious reasons. After an initial Tweet that seemed to suggest “the article” was an attempt by CBS to “save face” Esposito then wrote six more Tweets (presented without correction): “CBS knows PUT me on unpaid leave an has blocked me from working anywhere else after my doc said u needed a reduced schedule due to celiac …CBS didn’t listen to my doc and I collapsed on set. Which everyone saw! After a week off my doc said I could return to work but CBS …  Implied that I was NOT truly ill and this was a scheme to get a raise! It’s been almost two months without brining me back to work + keeping… Me from working anywhere else! So no that article is not telling you the truth. Absolutely shameful behavior … If you feel this is unjust use your voice. That’s all we have sometimes … I love you all for the support need to rest now the whole situation brakes my heart. Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo” Esposito may have spurred CBS to issue a statement by hinting at the situation before the Deadline story broke. On Oct. 19, the actress began retweeting comments from followers who were aware that she was no longer working and who were accusing CBS of discrimination and calling on Esposito’s fans to protest. CBS declined to comment on Esposito’s Tweets.
 Actress Daya Vaidya introduces her identical twin sons in an adorable series of shots exclusive to PEOPLE. Born on July 25, the baby boys joined the former Unforgettable star and her husband Don Wallace‘s daughter Leela Grace, 3.



'Paranormal Activity 4' possesses top spot with $30.2 million despite scary underperformance
Paramount’s $5 million found footage horror sequel Paranormal Activity 4 easily led the box office with $30.2 million in its first three days.  Argo‘s sophomore frame seemed just the opposite. Warner Bros.’ $45 million Ben Affleck-directed spy thriller dropped only 15 percent in its second weekend to $16.6 million, thereby lifting its total to $43.2 million after 10 days. Third place went to Hotel Transylvania, which is demonstrating impressive staying power as Halloween approaches. In fourth, Taken 2 dropped by 39 percent (a better hold than last weekend’s 56 percent decline) to $13.4 million. After 17 days. Summit’s Alex Cross fared badly in fifth place. The thriller, which stars the oft-cross-dressing Madea-director Tyler Perry in the title role, grossed $11.8 million, the worst debut ever for a film starring Perry and the worst debut ever in the Alex Cross series.
1. Paranormal Activity 4 – $30.2 million
2. Argo – $16.6 million
3. Hotel Transylvania – $13.5 million
4. Taken 2 – $13.4 million
5. Alex Cross – $11.8 million

Madonna cancels show, citing laryngitis

Madonna was forced to cancel her concert in Texas on Saturday after falling ill with voice problems. Madonna was due to take the stage at the American Airlines Center in Dallas as part of her MDNA tour, but was forced to ax the show on doctors' orders after coming down with a bout of "severe laryngitis." A post on the singer's official website reads: "Under doctor's orders, the Material Girl has been put on 'complete vocal rest'... All tickets for the October 20th show to be refunded at the point of purchase. Tickets purchased online will [be] refunded directly. Madonna regrets any inconvenience to her fans."

 Renee Graziano is going away for a while. The star of the VH1's Mob Wives has entered a rehabilitation center in Miami, her publicist confirmed, adding that "it is not for any current drug or alcohol use of any kind." The rep says: "Her choice to enter rehab was made entirely on her own. She has made this decision for the betterment of her son AJ [Pagan]'s life, as well as to improve her physical, mental and spiritual health." Graziano, 41, is the daughter of Anthony "TG" Graziano, former consigliere of the Bonanno family. She is reportedly at Miami's Transitions rehab center. It has been a difficult year for Graziano, whose ex-husband, Hector "Junior" Pagan, gave information to authorities that helped put her father in prison.


TV NEWS
Creator Shonda Rhimes made the announcement today, saying that the decision to make the 13-episode sixth season the show’s last came after “a lot of discussion and debate.” Her full statement: “I’m sad to say that Private Practice‘s run will end after episode 613 this season. There was a lot of discussion and debate but, in the end, the guys at the network and the studio and I all decided that Private Practice was reaching its finish line. Creatively, we are all extremely proud of the show and especially proud of this season — which you will all soon discover is a creative renaissance. I can’t wait for you to see it. It’s heartbreaking to end. Truly. I feel so lucky to write for these characters and tell these stories and I truly feel this show has taught me so much as a writer. And there’s a family here, of crew and cast, people who have bonded over these past five and a half seasons. It’s rare for a show to go for more than 100 episodes and we are incredibly proud to have been such a show. And we’re grateful to all of you for spending time with us for an hour every week for the last 6 years. It’s meant the world. Thank you.”


Louis C.K. will host Saturday Night Live on Nov. 3, NBC announced during this weekend’s show. The Emmy-winning comedian and star of FX’s Louie will be joined by musical guest indie pop band Fun.


Another controversy is rocking Community. Multiple sources confirm that Chevy Chase dropped the N-word on the set of the NBC comedy Friday afternoon in the presence of his African-American co-stars Yvette Nicole Brown and Donald Glover. According to an insider, the acting vet was struggling with his character’s dialogue and, in a moment of frustration, uttered the racial epithet. The slur was not directed at Brown and Glover specifically, maintains another source close to the production, who adds that Chase has grown increasingly unhappy with the dark direction of his character, the bigoted Pierce Hawthorne. But it nonetheless caused enough of a stir to briefly interrupt production. Chase eventually summoned the cast and crew together to issue a formal apology.


AMC has settled its legal battle with Dish Networks, thus ensuring that Dish subscribers will once again be able to spend their Sunday nights watching the cast of The Walking Dead concoct exciting new ways to stab zombies in the face. The lawsuit — an arcane dispute rooted in the defunct Voom service — ended this weekend when AMC and Cablevision agreed to a settlement with Dish. According to a press release, Dish agreed to pay AMC and Cablevision $700 million, and also entered into a new multi-year agreement to air the channels comprising AMC Networks — which includes AMC, IFC, the Sundance Channel, and WE tv.


Fox’s The Mindy Project, already received a full-season order earlier this month– but that freshman run is now bigger. Fox has ordered two additional episodes, bringing the good doc’s first cycle to 24 episodes.


Two freshman ABC dramas received votes of confidence on Friday. Both Last Resort, which this Thursday inched up 6 percent after two weeks of slippage, and 666 Park Avenue, which has dipped each week since its debut, have received orders for two additional scripts. While that is well shy of receiving a full-season (or “back 9″) pick-up, it at the very least serves as an indicator that a network has faith enough to see where a new show might be headed.


Tonight's Special:3rd and final Presidential Debate:  Airing live on ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, PBS, CNBC, CNN, C SPAN, FOX News, MSNBC at 9p
Tonight's Premieres:
MTV: Totally Clueless at 7p
Bounce TV: Off the Chain at 9p
HGTV: Love It or List It at 9p
Logo: RuPaul's All Stars Drag Race at 9p
BBC America: Richard Hammond's Crash Course at 10p
truTV: Vegas Strip at 10p & 1030p
Tonight's Finales:ABC Family: Switched at Birth at 8p
Syfy: Alphas at 8p
DIY Network: House Crashers at 9p; Yard Crashers at 11p