Sorry everyone my blog was posted late today bc I am on vaca in sunny Miami the rest of the week won't be late today

Bob Dylan's muse Suze Rotolo dies at 67. Suze Rotolo, Bob Dylan's girlfriend in the early-Sixties, who walked arm-in-arm with the songwriter on the iconic cover of "The Freehweelin' Bob Dylan," died Feb. 24 after a long illness. She was 67. Rotolo was the muse behind many of Dylan's early love songs, including "Don't Think Twice, It's All Right," "Boots of Spanish Leather" and "Tomorrow Is a Long Time." She was just 17 when they began dating in 1961, shortly after Dylan arrived in New York City. "I once loved a woman, a child I'm told," he wrote in "Don't Think Twice, It's All Right." "I gave her my heart, but she wanted my soul." In early 1962, Dylan and Rotolo were living together in a tiny apartment on West Fourth Street. Suze came from a staunchly left-wing New York family, and played a huge role in Dylan's political awakening. When they began dating Dylan was largely apolitical and his set consisted mostly of decades-old folk songs. Rotolo took him to CORE (The Congress of Racial Equality) meetings and taught him much about the civil rights movement. Rotolo told Dylan about the brutal 1955 murder of Emmett Till, inspiring Dylan to write his early protest classic "The Death of Emmett Till." "I think it's the best thing I've ever written," Dylan said at the time.


2011 Oscar Winners

Best Picture: "The King’s Speech"

Best Actor: Colin Firth, "The King's Speech"

Best Actress: Natalie Portman, "Black Swan"

Best Supporting Actor: Christian Bale, "The Fighter"

Best Supporting Actress: Melissa Leo, "The Fighter"

Best Director: Tom Hooper, "The King's Speech"

Best Animated Movie: "Toy Story 3"

Best Make-up: The Wolfman

Best Costume Design: Alice in Wonderland

Best Song: “We Belong Together” from Toy Story 3 – Music and Lyric by Randy Newman



Last night's Oscar losers went home with a $270,000 swag bag. It included:
- a $200,000 orbital space flight on Virgin Galactic

- a $16,000, four-night stay at a luxury resort in the Maldives

- $200 Black caviar eye and neck cream from J. Holly International

- $20 “Shimmer” toilet paper rolls from KimzHollywood List

- use of a private island for five days



At The Box Office

1. "Gnomeo & Juliet," $14.2 million.

2. "Hall Pass," $13.4 million. Sound Bite-Hall Pass-Fred (Jason Sudeikis) gets a hall pass. (Courtesy of New Line Cinema) (NEW)

3. "Unknown," $12.4 million.

4. "Just Go With It," $11.1 million.

5. "I Am Number Four," $11 million.

6. "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never," $9.2 million.

7. "The King's Speech," $7.6 million.

8. "Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son," $7.6 million.

9. "Drive Angry," $5.1 million.

10. "True Grit," $1.9 million.


Designer John Galliano Pulls a Mel Gibson

John Galliano is in a lot of trouble with the House of Dior. The designer has been placed on suspension pending investigation that he verbally assaulted a couple with racial and religious slurs. "The House of Dior declares with the greatest firmness its policy of zero tolerance with regard to any anti-Semitic or racist statement or attitude," Dior boss Sidney Toledano said in a statement. "Pending the outcome of the [police] enquiry, Christian Dior has suspended John Galliano from all duties." Cops detained Galliano on Thursday night for a brief while as they questioned him for the alleged attack at the bar.


James Franco Ditches His Own Oscar Party After Bombing as Host

Was James Franco stoned during last night's Oscars? The 127 hours actor gave us hours of bad jokes, bad hosting etiquette and straight up boredom. James ended up ditching his own Oscar after party after he bombed on stage last night. Luckily his co-host Anne Hathaway was there to help save the show, but it was obvious she was over compensating for him. Immediately after the show he boarded a plane to NYC and left a twitter message that read, "Goodbye L.A. It was fun! Time to head back to class." So who showed up to his bash at The Supper Club? Seth Rogen, Kevin Spacey and a couple of stars from CW's 90210 but that was pretty much it. When the host doesn't bother showing up, you can guarantee it'll be a bust.


Charlie Will Do Another Season of Men--at $3 Mil an Episode

Charlie Sheen spent an entire week bad mouthing his 'Two and a Half Men' boss Chuck Lorre on national television and just about every radio show, but now he's singing a different tune. Last week he pretty much said the show is dead and he'll never work with Lorre again, but is now saying he'll gladly return to work because he's a man of his word. He said he's even on board to do season 10, but only if he gets paid $3 mil an episode plus a $20 mil signing bonus. Charlie's interview with Good Morning America is set to air on Tuesday and here's what we can expect from our favorite trainwreck, "I am on a drug. It's called Charlie Sheen. It's not available because if you try it once, you will die. Your face will melt off and your children will weep over your exploded body," the embattled "Two and a Half Men" star said in an interview with ABC News. "I woke up and decided, you know, I've been kicked around. I've been criticized. I've been like the, 'Ah, shucks' guy with like this bitchin' rockstar life. And I'm just finally going to completely embrace it, wrap both arms around it, and love it violently. And defend it violently through violent hatred."


Rihanna and Ciara Get Into Nasty Catfight

Rihanna and Ciara got into a nasty catfight--on twitter. The feud started when Ciara went on E!'s fashion police and bashed Rihanna. "I ran into her recently at a party. She wasn't the nicest," Ciara sniped on TV. "It's crazy, because I've always loved and respected what she's done in fashion. It wasn't the nicest run in. Rihanna found out about Ciara's comments and tweeted, "My bad Ci, did I forget to tip you? How rude of me....You gangsta huh? Ha."

Ciara retaliated, "Trust me Rihanna you don't want to see me on or off the stage."

But Rihanna an amazing comeback, "Good luck with bookin that stage you speak of."

"Pure comedy," Ciara replied.

Rihanna ended up taking the high road and put the feud to rest before it could get any uglier. "Ciara baby, I love you girl!" she Tweeted. "You hurt my feelings real bad on TV! I'm heartbroken! That's why I retaliated this way! So sorry! Let's make up."

Ciara replied, "Rhi, u know its always been love since day 1! Doing shows and everything. You threw me off in that party! Apology accepted. Let's chat in person."


Kathy Griffin Dating the Old Spice Guy

Griffin tweeted a photo of herself with Mustafa in September, calling him “super hot.” This reeks of publicity stunt, but at an event this Tuesday, Mustafa was seen whispering in Griffin’s ear and kissing her hand. The next day, he visited her on the set of Glee.



Kelsey Grammer Got Married By Drag Queen

"Kelsey Grammer and Kayte Walsh were married at a private ceremony for family and friends," his rep said in a statement. Kelsey and Kayte said "I do" in front of 150 guests in New York and the ceremony was officiated by a drag queen. They got married at Longacre Theatre on Broadway by his ‘La Cage aux Folles’ co-star Terry Lavell. A source told the NY Post newspaper: “They’ll be married by Terry Lavell, who plays Mercedes. He has the license to officiate weddings. The congregation will sit in the audience seats. “Kelsey wanted to get married at the Longacre because he enjoyed being on the stage. Also, it’s where he fell in love with Kayte; she was always backstage.”



David Beckham Thinks He's Jesus

Becks spent over 8 hours in a chair for the massive tattoo that's located on the left side of his chest. David said: "It is Jesus being carried by three cherubs and obviously the cherubs are my boys and so my thought of it is that at some point my boys are going to need to look after me and that’s what they’re doing in the picture. It means a lot." He said: "I don't plan on having a tattoo, just sometimes I wake up and I have an idea of an image I'd like on me. It's just something that I've found kind of expresses how I feel or thoughts I have or memories. There's not one tattoo I've got on me that doesn't mean something."

Two and a Half Men Halted for the rest of the Season

CBS and Warner Bros. have had enough. The companies are pulling the plug on top-rated Two and a Half Men after Charlie Sheen’s shocking Thursday interviews. “Based on the totality of Charlie Sheen’s statements, conduct and condition, CBS and Warner Bros. Television have decided to discontinue production of Two and a Half Men for the remainder of the season,” the companies said in a statement. Charlie Sheen verbally attacked Two and a Half Men co-creator Chuck Lorre, calling him a “clown,” a “stupid, stupid little man” and said he “violently hates” the producer. Sheen also seemingly made an antisemitic remark when he twice referred to Lorre with a name that sounds like “Chaim Levine” (Lorre was born Charles Michael Levine).

Charlie Sheen Rips His Show's Creator in Bizarre Rants

In a pair of interviews Thursday, the actor went on profane, rambling rampages against Alcoholic's Anonymous, party girls, his ex-wife, founding father Thomas Jefferson and, with particular vitriol, the man who created his hit show Two and a Half Men. Summing up his reaction to those people – including his father Martin Sheen – who have suggested he has a disease of addiction, Sheen replies with an expletive. "Bull----," he says on syndicated radio's The Alex Jones Show. "I cured it … with my mind … It's all good guys. Quit panicking. No panic, no judgment. You can kill me, but you do not have the right to judge me." Scheduled to return to the show Tuesday, Sheen says he's completely sober, but makes it clear it wasn't with the help of A.A., which he calls a "bootleg cult" with a 5 percent success rate. "I'm so tired of pretending like my life isn't perfect and bitchin' and just winning every second," he tells Jones. "I'm not perfect, and bitching and just delivering the goods at every [expletive] turn. Because look what I'm dealing with, man – I'm dealing with fools and trolls. I'm dealing with soft targets.” The actor gave the radio interview while vacationing in the Bahamas, bringing his estranged wife Brooke Mueller and two other women. Sheen says Mueller no longer was there, leaving him with the other women. "Goodbye Brooke," he says. "Good luck in your travels, you're going to need it – badly." "There's no reason to then bring them back into the fold because I have real fame – they have nothing," he says. "They have zero. They have that night. And I will forget about them as the last image of them exits my beautiful home. And they will get out there and they will sell me and they will lose." At one bizarre point, Jones suggests Sheen sounded Jeffersonian, to which he quips, "I'm not Thomas Jefferson. He was a p----y!" But Sheen saves his strongest words for Two and a Half Men creator Chuck Lorre, who recently joked about Sheen. Lorre professed to having a healthy lifestyle and said he'd be mad if Sheen outlived him. Sheen says he didn't find that funny, calling Lorre a "clown" whose real name is "Chaim Levine." (His name is actually Charles Michael Levine). "I embarrassed him in front of his children and the world by healing at a pace that this un-evolved mind cannot process," says Sheen. "I've spent, I think, close to the last decade, I don't know, effortlessly and magically converted your tin cans into pure gold. And the gratitude I get is this charlatan chose not to do his job, which is to write." In the radio interview, Sheen explains why he decided to be so outspoken. "I've got magic, I've got poetry at my fingerprints," he says. "Why give an interview when you can leave a warning. I'm not fair game. I'm not a soft target. It's over. There's a new sheriff in town. And he has an army of assassins."  i was not going to post this long crazy obviously cracked out rant, but it is hilarious... and sad... and hilarious, lol.

 

Hunt for 'Bourne Legacy' Leads Heats Up

Writer-director Tony Gilroy has been in town this week meeting with several actors to play the new lead character in “The Bourne Legacy,” which is not Jason Bourne but a new assassin with a similar background. The list of thesps includes Jake Gyllenhaal, Tobey Maguire, Garrett Hedlund, Taylor Kitsch, and Kellan Lutz, sources close to the process say. Universal would not comment or confirm on these actors or these meetings. Insiders add Gilroy has an idea of what kind of actor he wants for the role but that Universal have also brought their picks to the table as well. Insiders stress that no front-runner has emerged. Lesser-known actors could become a factor because Gilroy wants to screen-test all candidates — which may be a stumbling block for some established thesps. No other casting decisions are likely to be made until the lead is set, giving the search for the lead some urgency if production is to begin in the spring as planned. The focus on a new character will allow some flexibility for the possibility of Damon returning in some fashion.

 

Randy Quaid wins extended stay in Canada

Randy Quaid, wanted in the United States for several outstanding warrants, can stay in Canada for the time being now that his wife, Evi, is officially a Canadian citizen, according to the Toronto Globe and Mail. “On Feb. 16, the inadmissibility proceedings against Randy Quaid were formally withdrawn by [Canada Border Service Agency]. Randy no longer faces any impediments to his presence in Canada,” said the couple’s lawyer, Catherine Sas, at a press conference in Vancouver. “Evi’s Canadian citizenship was formally recognized and we received her citizenship card on Feb. 10. Evi has formally applied to sponsor her husband and it is anticipated that Randy will be granted his permanent resident status in due course and before the refugee claim is scheduled.” In October, the couple had been arrested in Vancouver for immigration violation charges after they’d fled felony burglary charges in California. They applied for refugee status, claiming they were being persecuted by U.S. authorities and threatened by “star whackers.” Quaid, who was nominated for an Oscar for 1973′s The Last Detail, is best known for playing Chevy Chase’s rube cousin in the Vacation films.

Kanye West's 'All of the Lights' video could trigger seizures in photosensitive epileptics

Kanye West's flashy new music video for "All of the Lights" is taking heat from Epilepsy Action -- a U.K. based charity group that provides information about epilepsy and seizures. The video, which features Rihanna and Kid Cudi, was supposedly removed from YouTube after concerns were voiced about viewers with photosensitive epilepsy. Epilepsy Action reached out to West's agent and YouTube, as well as other sites that were carrying the video. They worry that the video would trigger seizures in people suffering from the disorder. The organization issued a statement about the video's removal, saying "For now we are delighted that our fears have been listened to and people with photosensitive epilepsy are no longer at risk." The removal was not permanent however, as the video is still available on West's VEVO page with the following disclaimer: "WARNING: This video has been identified by Epilepsy Action to potentially trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised."

'South Park' jihadist sentenced to 25 years

Zachary Adam Chesser, the 21-year-old American-born Islamic man who posted online threats encouraging jihadists attacks against South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker — for an episode that depicted the Prophet Mohammed in a bear suit — was sentenced to 25 years in prison today. “His actions caused people throughout the country to fear speaking out — even in jest — to avoid being labeled as enemies who deserve to be killed,” U.S. Attorney Neil MacBride is quoted in a report. “The fact that a young man from Northern Virginia could support such violence and terror is a sobering reminder of the serious threat that homegrown jihadist pose to this country.” Chesser also admitted that he had attempted to join an Islamic group in Somalia, Al-Shabaab, that the U.S. government considers a terrorist organization.

Nets acquire All-Star Deron Williams

The New Jersey Nets finally landed a big-name All-Star in a blockbuster trade that gives them point guard Deron Williams and sends rookie Derrick Favors and point guard Devin Harris to the Utah Jazz.
The Jazz also will receive the Nets' first-round pick in 2011, which could be a lottery pick, cash, and Golden State's 2012 first-round draft pick. ''I feel Deron Williams is the best point guard in the NBA,'' Nets general manager Billy King said in officially announcing the blockbuster deal Wednesday afternoon. ''I spoke with Deron and he's excited about it. He understands where we are and where we want to go. In this league, you win with point guards. Jason Kidd turned this franchise around when he came and we feel Deron can do the same thing.''

Seal retaliates after Twitter attack

Seal launched a war of words on a Twitter.com user who branded him "ugly," accusing his detractor of "cowardice." The singer was infuriated after reading a message on the social networking site declaring, "Seal is ugly. Sorry." The Brit was adamant he wasn't bothered by the remark, insisting he only lashed out to protect the innocence of the children he shares with supermodel Heidi Klum. In a series of posts on Twitter, Seal ranted, "Let me see, the most beautiful wife on the planet, four equally beautiful kids, an outstanding career lasting 20yrs, a Grammy this yr now totaling 5. You, on the other hand, sit behind your vail [sic] of anonymity with no life other than twitter and you think I'm ugly? Do the math prick."


TV NEWS

Laura Prepon, who's been cast to play Chelsea Handler in an NBC pilot based on the comedian's autobiography, says that Chelsea will be playing her own older sister on the show.

You already know that True Blood‘s upcoming fourth season will feature witches, werewolves and more Nan Flannigan. But here’s what I’m fairly certain you don’t know: It’ll also mark the return of vampire legend Godric! Allan Hyde will reprise his role as Eric’s late, forever young-looking maker when the HBO drama resumes this summer. The duration and exact timing of his stint are unknown.

"Glory Daze" is one and done.  TBS' college-set comedy has been canceled after its first season. Skein about a group of friends in 1980s Wisconsin was created by Walt Becker and Michael LeSieur. Show, which debuted Nov. 16 and starred Kelly Blatz, Matt Bush and Andrew Seeley, ran for 10 episodes.

Most members of the key demographic that advertisers crave have never known an Oscar telecast on any network other than ABC, a tradition that will continue through at least the year 2020. ABC and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Thursday (February 24) that they've reached a six-year extension of their current contract. Everybody involved had lots to say, press release-wise. "This contract ensures that the Oscar show will be an ABC tradition for 45 consecutive years," states Academy President Tom Sherak. "ABC is absolutely the very best place for the Academy Awards, a television event that is beloved and watched by millions of movie lovers all over the world."

CBS’ Criminal Minds spin-off lost viewers in its second week, dropping 23 percent of its premiere audience and plunging 26 percent to a 2.5 rating with the 18-49 crowd. That said, Suspect Behavior still led the 10 o’clock hour in viewers and tied SVU in the demo.

'Deadliest Catch' crew member Justin Tennison dies at 33

Justin Tennison, a crew member on the "Deadliest Catch" boat F/V Time Bandit, has died. Tennison, 33, was found dead in a motel room in Homer, Alaska, on Tuesday afternoon, the Anchorage Daily News reports. Police say they found alcohol and about a quarter-ounce of marijuana in the room, but it's not known if they played any part in Tennison's death. An autopsy was scheduled. Time Bandit Capt. Andy Hillstrand posted a remembrance on his Facebook page, saying Tennison was "tough as a bull and was an all-around good hand." "Justin fished commercially for many years, living in Alaska for 28 years," Hillstrand writes. "He worked on the Time Bandit, alongside his second cousin, Eddie Uwekoolani Jr., serving as Engineer during the tendering seasons, and joined the Time Bandit crew as a deckhand fishing the Red King 2010 and Opilio 2011 seasons." Discovery Channel also released a statement on Tennison's death: "Discovery Channel is saddened by the passing of Time Bandit crew member Justin Tennison. We send our sympathies to his entire family and fellow crew members during this most difficult time." Tennison, who had a son and a daughter, would have turned 34 next month.

In a photo shoot taken for L'Officiel Parismagazine, Beyonce returns “to her African roots”, voluntarily painting her face dark brown. You know, the way actors did in Minstrel shows during the 1800s and it was incredibly offensive? The shoot was an homage to Nigerian musician and humanitarian Fela Kuti. Beyonce’s husband, Jay-Z is currently producing the Broadway musical Fela!. The photos are obviously causing controversy, with Jezebel.com making this statement: “When you paint your face darker in order to look more 'African,' aren't you reducing an entire continent, full of different nations, tribes, cultures and histories, into one brown color?" well they explained the point they were making and she didn't don the white gloves, so don't be mad lol i'm not offended b/c the torquoise eye make-up totally changes the image, lol


Hugh Hefner's Wedding Date Revealed
Hef and his 24 year-old fiancé Crystal Harris are getting married this summer, just two months after his 85th birthday. “The date of the wedding. It is June 18th. This year, Saturday. We’re excited,” Crystal said. "A June bride. It will be at the Mansion but it will be a little more intimate,” Hefner added. Hef married his first wife Kimberley Conrad on the front lawn of the Playboy mansion, so Crystal wants to make sure his second wedding is like totally different. " I mean he got married once in the front yard so I asked if we could do it in the backyard,” Crystal said.  i interviewed the couple and she said anyone can be w/ someone old enough to be their dad but how many can stomach being w/ someone old enough to be their grandfather. i am awesome and plus he is about to die and leave me some money. i am the new anna nicole, how awesome is that. he said i am looking for some companionship and i had to lie and say she would get some money to do it, but who cares if she gets pissed, i will be dead and the joke will be on her, lol.


Rapper Tru Life pleads guilty in fatal NY stabbing
A rapper once signed to a Jay-Z-run label, Roc-A-Fella Records, admitted Wednesday to playing a role in a deadly stabbing in an apartment building lobby. Tru Life, born Robert Rosado, pleaded guilty to gang assault in a June 2009 attack that killed Christopher Guerrero and wounded another man, Jason Gray. The rapper's brother Marcus Rosado pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the attack, which police said spiraled out of an argument at a nightclub. The 34-year-old rapper's plea deal calls for eight years in prison. His 39-year-old brother is expected to get 10 years at their sentencing, set for March 15. Through their lawyers, the brothers expressed sorrow for what they called a tragic incident. "They wish to express their deepest sympathies to the Guerrero family, and it is their hope that by accepting responsibility, they can bring some measure of closure to the family," said the attorneys, Alan M. Abramson and Joel S. Cohen. The Rosados chased Guerrero and Gray into the lobby, where Guerrero was stabbed in the abdomen and Gray suffered a cut that sliced an artery, according to court documents. They got outside and collapsed on the ground, court documents said.


Lindsay Pleads Not Guilty; Asks to Go to Trial
Lindsay showed up to court today with her lawyer Shawn Holley. The Judge gave Lindsay until March 10 to accept a plea deal in a grand larceny case, in which she is accused of stealing a $2,500 necklace from a local jewelry store. "This case does involve jail time period," Schwartz told Lindsay Wednesday morning.  The Judge wants her to do six months behind bars. "If you plead in front of me, you are going to jail. Period. There may be an issue with amount of time, and that is why a judge has discretion you will be going to jail." The Judge even asked for psychological evaluation. "I don’t want you to be a repeat offender, I want you to get on with your life, reach your potential and quit causing yourself additional stress," he said. "I want additional psychological information as to what other probation might be appropriate." whatever judge, u not going to lock her up and she knows it. but i do agree w/ the psych test, lol.

Billy Ray Cyrus working on ‘healthy’ family

Singer Billy Ray Cyrus recently admitted his relationship with the teenage star has become strained and confessed fame had “destroyed” his family. Billy is currently in the process of getting a divorce from Miley’s mother Tish and says he is doing his best to try to pull his loved ones closer together. “It is very important to me to work on mending my family right now," he said.  During a magazine interview released earlier this month, Billy revealed he was worried about 18-year-old Miley and claimed she is surrounded by negative influences. He also said he is scared she will go off the rails after she was seen out partying in recent months and hit out at critics who blame him for her outrageous behaviour. The singer now admits he regrets speaking so candidly and just wants to repair his relationship with Miley. "[My comments were] explosive, and unintentionally so," Billy added, "My family is the most important thing I have, and we are working together to make sure our future is stronger and healthier."  Billy spent time in Tennessee after filing for divorce from Tish last year. However, he is now making more of an effort to be in Los Angeles so he can see Tish and their 11-year-old daughter Noah. "It is all a learning process,” he explained. “And we thank everyone for their support and respect of our privacy as we sort through very important family issues." please save miley i don't feel like talking about her like i do lindsay in 3 yrs, lol

Madonna definitely made the right decision picking Kelly Osbourne for the spring 2011 campaign. She fits the brands image more than Taylor Momsen, who looked like she was advertising clothes you buy on Hollywood Blvd. The ads will debut in fashion and lifestyle magazines in April. kelly looks good



TV NEWS
Winner: Mark Zuckerberg. "Dancing With The Stars," you better start working on the press release. FOX, Simon Cowell and the producers of "The X Factor" are in talks with social networking site Facebook to bring online voting to the show. Coincidentally, "American Idol" is also looking to add online voting via Facebook. Sounds like a classic case of sibling rivalry, no? Sources say "Idol" will soon make the announcement that users will be able to use their Facebook accounts to reach a voting page featuring all the current contestants. Fans will be able to vote 50 times and still be able to vote via text messaging and toll-free phone calls. The online voting would go into effect on Tuesday, March 1.



Abrams, the 19 year old guy who played the stand up bass got sick during a rehearsal and was taken to a local hospital where he stayed the night. He made the top 24 BUT if he can't make the taping on Friday, he'll be eliminated.



Comedian Kevin Hart was tapped for new Fox show “Little in Common.” Kevin will play Ty Burleson, a former Division 2 athlete and sports writer-turned-house husband who now satisfies his competitive urges by coaching youth baseball. Kevin is now on tour with his standup show Laugh at My Pain. It just wrapped up a 2-day performance at the Nokia Theatre L.A. Live that set a record with $1.1 million in ticket sales. No Black comedian since Eddie Murphy has surpassed 1 million dollars in two-day live show ticket sales.




YouTube is in talks with the National Basketball Association and the National Hockey League to show live games. YouTube aims to show more live sports in the second half of the year. Adding live sports broadcasts may help YouTube expand revenue by keeping viewers on its site longer to woo more advertisers. Michael Bass, senior vice president for marketing communications at the NBA, said, that they are pleased that YouTube recognizes the value of live sports. Google, which runs the world's most used Internet search engine, paid $1.65 billion to buy YouTube in 2006. YouTube competes with premium-content site Hulu LLC and rental service Netflix.



Father’s Day has come early for Fox’s American Dad. Seth MacFarlane’s animated Sunday staple has been picked up for a seventh season. The 22-episode order — which is expected to be spread out over the next two seasons — ensures that Stan and Co. will be around through May 2013.



Former Dharma & Greg star Jenna Elfman is in negotiations for the lead in ABC’s single-camera comedy pilot Bad Mom. The project centers on Julia (Elfman), a single mother whose two kids had been raised largely by their grandmother. When Nana decides she wants to reclaim her life, Julia is forced to step up and be a parent. Elfman’s last small-screen gig was the short-lived CBS sitcom Accidentally on Purpose.



Kim Kardashian is up for the role of playing John Gotti's daughter-in-law in the new movie about the mob boss' life. Playing Gotti? John Travolta. Kim recently met with executive producers on the film to discuss the opportunity.

 Prince William: Bachelor Party at Sea
Prince William is reportedly going to have his bachelor party at sea so they can keep the party as private as possible. No paps allowed! His best man, younger brother Prince Harry, and 20 of his closest pals will help him celebrate his last days as a single man. A royal source told The Sun newspaper: “The watersports weekend is a perfect option. They can let their hair down without worrying about who is around.” So far they plan to end the day with a barbeque and a trip up a nearby estuary to visit a number of pubs and restaurants only accessible by boat. great now dudes are going to try to immulate the prince and start drowning tricks or one of them will be drunk and fall over and that will be the end of bachelor parties at sea, lol.

NYC sale of Lena Horne's belongings nets $316,000

An auction of 200 items that once filled the home of jazz singer and actress Lena Horne sold Wednesday for $316,000, more than double the highest pre-sale estimate. The late star's belongings from her Manhattan apartment were auctioned at Doyle New York. They epitomized her sophisticated taste: French-style furnishing, elegant costumes, jewelry and fine art.  The collection also includes books and photographs, among them a group of books autographed by Langston Hughes (sold for $5,000) and a selection of contact sheets by Richard Avedon taken during a photo shoot with Horne (sold for $8,750). Horne, who was also a dancer and civil rights activist, died last May at the age of 92. She appeared on screen, stage, on records and in nightclubs and concert halls. Her signature song was "Stormy Weather," but her vocal range extended from blues and jazz and to such Rodgers and Hart classics as "The Lady Is a Tramp" and "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered."
 Pregnant Kim Zolciak of Atlanta Housewives poses for whoever wants to look at her.

Alyssa Milano Is Pregnant
The actress, 38, and her husband Dave Bugliari, 32, are expecting their first child, Milano's rep confirmed. Milano and Bugliari – an agent at the Creative Artists Agency – wed in August 2009 in New Jersey after meeting three years prior.

Nuggets trade Anthony to Knicks

The New York Knicks completed a three-team, 13-player trade with the Denver Nuggets for Carmelo Anthony. The Minnesota Timberwolves also were involved in the trade, which was agreed to Monday but couldn't be finalized until Anthony signed his three-year, $65 million contract extension with the Nuggets. Anthony will join fellow All-Star Amare Stoudemire in the frontcourt, giving the Knicks the potent duo they hoped they could assemble last summer in free agency. Instead, they had to give up much of their core, but in return they get one of the NBA's top scorers. "We liked the way our team played this year and I looked at it and I thought we had one piece that was at the high level of the league. We always wanted two pieces at least," team president Donnie Walsh said.  The Knicks also got guards Chauncey Billups and Anthony Carter, and forwards Renaldo Balkman and Shelden Williams from Denver. New York dealt forwards Wilson Chandler and Danilo Gallinari, guard Raymond Felton and center Timofey Mozgov to the Nuggets. New York also shipped centers Eddy Curry and Anthony Randolph to Minnesota for forward Corey Brewer. Denver acquired center Kosta Koufos from Minnesota, plus New York's first-round draft pick in 2014, second-round picks in 2012 and 2013 and cash. good now maybe he can stop whining about how he wants to be back in NY

Reggae star Buju Banton convicted in drug case

Jamaican reggae star and Grammy winner Buju Banton was found guilty on federal drug charges on Tuesday and could face 15 years to life in prison. A 12-member jury in Tampa found Banton, 37, guilty of conspiring with two other men to possess 11 pounds (5 kg) or more of cocaine in Sarasota, Florida, in December 2009. The verdict came after a four-day trial. Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, won a Grammy for the best reggae album of 2010 for "Before the Dawn" on February 13. He was unable to attend the ceremony in Los Angeles because he was preparing for the start of his trial the next day in Tampa. Banton testified at the trial that he was entrapped by federal informant Alexander Johnson and never wanted to buy drugs. Banton said he met Johnson on a transatlantic flight and talked about drugs to impress him because he thought Johnson had connections in the music industry. A sentencing date has not been scheduled. wow



Rihanna Responds To Trump’s Dig Over Charity Event

Donald Trump might not be happy that Rihanna couldn’t perform at his fundraiser last Saturday evening, but a rep for Rihanna says that the pop superstar was under strict doctor’s orders. “Rihanna was recovering [from] bronchitis and her doctor advised her not to get on a plane as she would risk losing her voice and damaging her vocal chords,” the rep said, regarding why Rihanna canceled her scheduled gig in Florida with The Donald. The “S&M” songstress had been slated to perform at Trump’s charity event in Palm Beach, Fla., however, was forced to pull out due to illness – something that didn’t sit well with Trump when he saw Rihanna sing the next day during the NBA All-Star game in Los Angeles. “I thought that (Rihanna bailing) was insulting to everyone,” Trump said. “But for Rihanna to go to the (NBA) All-Star game and perform after she told us she was sick, that is just a lack of respect.” As a result, Jennifer Hudson stepped in last minute for Rihanna and performed at the event, which benefited the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “She feels terribly she couldn’t attend but was so grateful Jennifer Hudson graciously stepped in,” the singer’s rep’s statement continued. j-hud probably gave a better show b/c rihanna's nba all star performance, booo, but ri-ri did have bronchitis

Radio station in Canada stops playing Carrie Underwood after husband traded

Carrie Underwood's hockey-playing husband, Mike Fisher, has spoken out against a radio station in Canada after it stopped playing her music and blamed the country singer for prompting his move to Tennessee. Fisher was traded by the Ottawa Senators to the Nashville Predators earlier this month, but the exchange did not sit well with DJs at one local station in Fisher's native Canada, who called his move "a betrayal to our community" and vowed not to play Underwood's music on the station.  It's unclear whether the DJs were serious, but Fisher says his country star wife was left disappointed by the news.  He tells the Vancouver Sun, "I heard about it right away, and Carrie heard about it, and she was extremely disappointed and frustrated. I think they meant it as a joke that really wasn't funny. They're not a country music station, and I don't know if it was for attention or not, but obviously Carrie had nothing to do with the move or the trade or anything, so to imply something like that was just wrong." not cool

 

Jeter shrugs off Steinbrenner comments

Derek Jeter laughed off Hank Steinbrenner's assertion that some New York Yankees were ''too busy building mansions'' after winning the 2009 World Series. The Yankees captain was building a large multimillion dollar home in Tampa last year when New York lost to Texas in the AL championship series after fading in the second half of the season and winding up with the AL wild card. Steinbrenner, the Yankees co-chairman, made the remark Monday in saying his team lacked hunger last year. ''I understand most of it,'' Jeter said before Tuesday's spring training workout. ''The house, I didn't understand. That's a first. That's funny, I think. I'm not moving, so we won't be talking about this again.'' Jeter often smiled and laughed during an 11-minute session with reporters. He pointed out, with a smile, that Steinbrenner used the plural ''mansions'' and that his name was not speciallly mentioned. The shortstop said no further explanation was needed from the oldest son of George Steinbrenner, the Yankees owner who died last July. ''Hopefully this is the last time we have to discuss last season,'' Jeter said. he was talking about u, and a couple others, don't fool yourself jeter, lol.




TV NEWS
Billy Ray Cyrus was scheduled to appear on this Wednesday’s episode of The View, but daughter Miley Cyrus convinced him to cancel.


"Glee" star, Matthew Morrison and actress, Olivia Munn were spotted holding hands and kissing at a Philadelphia Flyers/New York Rangers hockey game over the weekend. new couple alert


For the first time ever, "Glee" will premiere two new and original songs on "Glee: The Music, Volume 5" which will be available March 8th. "Loser Like Me," is a ballad sung by Lea Michele. The two new songs will air on the March 15th episode of Glee. Last week marks the biggest sales week for Glee music since the show's inception with an astounding 880,000 songs downloaded. To date almost 24 million Glee songs have been digitally downloaded, with nearly 9 million albums sold worldwide.  umm i don't watch it for original songs b/c i like to sing along, lol



Kiefer Sutherland is headed back to TV. The former "24" star has signed on to join the cast of a new Fox drama called, "Touch". He will play a man who discovers that his autistic son can predict the future. Fox and producer, 20th Century Fox TV, have agreed to figure out how to accommodate Sutherland's Broadway schedule should "Touch" be picked up as a new series. what will this do to my 24 movie?



It’s a good day for Nick Lachey. NBC has announced the renewal of three of their most successful reality shows, including the Lachey hosted Sing-Off, the Lisa Kudrow produced Who Do You Think You Are? and network staple The Biggest Loser.

Charlie Sheen is calling for Corbin Bernsen to be included in an upcoming "Major League" sequel after reports emerged suggesting his co-star has been left out of plans for a fourth installment. Movie executives are revamping Sheen's hit baseball film franchise, but Bernsen, who played Roger Dorn in the first three movies, has not yet been invited to rejoin the original cast. Bernsen's publicist says, "Corbin would LOVE to do another 'Major League,' but it doesn't look like he's been written into the movie at this point. We're hopeful he gets written in by the time it's finalized, though."

Following its cult-followed — but short-lived — run on Fox from 2008-09, Syfy has picked up all 31 episodes of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and plans to launch them Thursday, April 7 at 9/8c.



Syfy also announced their spring premiere lineup, with a Top Chef alum’s new series leading the pack: Marcel’s Quantum Kitchen makes its debut Tuesday March 22, at 10/9c; Fact or Faked: Paranormal Files returns Wednesday, March 23 at 10/9c; Sanctuary is back Friday, April 15 at 10/9c; and Stargate Universe‘s final 10 episodes begin Monday March 7, at 10/9c.

Ted Williams has landed a deal for a reality series based on his inspirational life story, his rep confirmed. The series, which will be titled "Second Chances at Life," will track Williams' life path from destitution to YouTube fame and will begin filming in "about three weeks," the rep says. The formerly homeless man became a media sensation thanks to his "golden voice." "Second Chances at Life" will be filmed in Williams' hometown of NYC. As well there will be filming in Columbus, Ohio, where Williams lived without a home for many years, and in Los Angeles, his current location. really? i am so tired of reality tv

 

 

 

ABC Family has officially picked up The Lying Game, a one-hour drama based on the novels by Sara Shepard — yep, the Pretty Little Liars author. Lying is sort of a much darker Parent Trap, and stars Alexandra Chando (As the World Turns), Blair Redford (90210) and Kirsten Prout (Kyle XY).

 

 

 

The former talk show host, who retired last year after 25 years at CNN, will be taking the stage in seven communities to dish about his storied career. The Emmy winner, 77, will offer theatergoers an inside look at his life and the ability to ask him questions when "Larry King: Stand Up" kicks off April 14 in Torrington, Conn.



Veronica Mars and Party Down alum Ryan Hansen has landed the male lead in the NBC comedy pilot Lovelives. Lovelives, from 20th TV, Chernin Entertainment and writer Chris Sheridan, is described as a sophisticated, adult multi-camera comedy about a couple, Tim and Holly, and their challenges of love and infidelity.



Saturday night’s NBA All-Star Game delivered its highest ratings since 2003, which featured Michael Jordan’s final appearance. The TNT televised game delivered 9.1 million total viewers.



American Idol's" executive producer, Nigel Lythgoe says that online voting is going to be added this season. He was unsure about the details and whether there'd be any limits on the voting online. He did say that there are no plans to limit texts or voice calls. By the way, Lythgoe, who also is a producer and judge in "So You Think You Can Dance" says that Mary Murphy has returned after a year off and is recovering from thyroid cancer. She can't scream the way she used to, which may be a blessing for everyone involved!


The March 16th episode of "Mr. Sunshine" will have Allison Janney's character, Crystal, singing a duet with five-time Grammy winner, James Taylor. The singer guest stars on the comedy as Billy, Crystal's ex-husband. It took the two about 15 takes on a smokey nightclub set in front of co-star Matthew Perry. Janney, who missed some of the high notes, rates her performance as "okay" saying she literally lost her voice and couldn't talk.


SNL alum and talk show host, Jimmy Fallon will be on the Dr. Oz Show today and will have a questionable mole removed. Dr. Oz said that Fallon was a big crybaby and that he just might send him a big bill after all.

Judge in LA eases Chris Brown restraining order

Chris Brown doesn't have to stay away from Rihanna anymore after a judge downgraded a restraining order in the singer's felony assault case. Superior Court Judge Patricia Schnegg's ruling came after an attorney for Rihanna said she didn't object to removing the stay-away provisions of an order issued after Brown pleaded guilty to beating her in February 2009. The old order required Brown to stay 50 yards away from Rihanna, but the restriction was reduced to 10 yards if they were at a music-industry event. The judge said she never would have considered relaxing the order without Rihanna's consent and until Brown completed domestic violence counseling. Prosecutors did not object to the change. He and Rihanna, 23, can now see and speak to each other. But if Brown harasses, threatens, assaults, or tracks his ex-girlfriend's movements, he could be found to be in violation of his probation. Rihanna, whose real name is Robyn Fenty, can record any threatening conversations with Brown and present them as evidence to authorities. Her attorney, Donald Etra, said he thought the new order was adequate protection. The new order remains in effect until August 2014 when Brown's probation is scheduled to end.



Harding gives birth to baby boy
Controversial former figure skating champion Tonya Harding has given birth to her first child -- a baby boy. According to Harding's friend, Don Horn, the 40-year-old gave birth on Saturday in a Southwest Washington hospital. Harding's attorney, Linda Lewis, confirmed last week that she and husband Joseph Price, 42, were expecting. Harding, who won the US Figure Skating Championships in 1991 and placed fourth in the 1992 Winter Olympics, initially denied any knowledge of Gillooly's plot, but later pleaded guilty to hindering the prosecution in the case. She was fined, given three years' probation and barred from competing in the 1994 World Figure Skating Championships.



Phish announces 2011 tour dates
The band announced dates for the first leg of its American tour, and East Coasters should mark March 12 in their calendars. That's the day tickets go on sale. Live Nation starts the sale at 12 p.m. ET, and spots are going for $60 in the pavilion level and $45 for lawn. Fans especially eager can register on the Phish website for a ticket request system between now and March 4. yah! all u phish heads get those knapsacks ready :-)

Here are the first 18 dates:

5/27/11 - Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel, N.Y.
5/28/11 - Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel, N.Y.
5/29/11 - Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel, N.Y.
5/31/11 - PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, N.J.
6/1/11 - PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, N.J.
6/3/11 - DTE Energy Center, Detroit, MI
6/4/11 - Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Falls, OH
6/5/11 - Riverbend Music Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
6/7/11 - Comcast Center, Mansfield, MA
6/8/11 -Darien Lake Amphitheatre, Darien, NY
6/10/11 - Susquehanna Bank Center, Camden, NJ
6/11/11 - Merriweather Post Pavilion, Columbia, MD
6/12/11 - Merriweather Post Pavilion, Columbia, MD
6/14/11 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, Alpharetta, GA
6/15/11 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, Alpharetta, GA
6/17/11 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Charlotte, NC
6/18/11 - Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion, Raleigh, NC
6/19/11 - Ntelos Pavilion at Harbor Center, Portsmouth, VA

Liam Neeson shows he still has box-office pull

Liam Neeson thriller "Unknown" won the four-day Presidents Day weekend box office, grossing $25.6 million. Disney's "I Am Number Four," a youth-targeted sci-fi drama that's the first film released under the studio's distribution agreement with DreamWorks, grossed $22.6 million over the four-day weekend. Fox's "Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son" -- part three of the Martin Lawrence comedy franchise, which featured up-and-comer Brandon T. Jackson dawning his own latex fat suit -- grossed just $19 million.

1. "Unknown," $25.1 million
2. "Gnomeo & Juliet," $24.8 million
3. "I Am Number Four," $22.6 million
4. "Just Go With It," $21.7 million
5. "Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son," $19 million
6.  "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never," $16.5 million
7.  "The King's Speech," $7.9 million
8.  "The Roommate," $4.5 million
9.  "The Eagle," $4 million
10. "No Strings Attached," $3.7 million

Steinbrenner rips Jeter over mansion

Yankees owner Hank Steinbrenner took a shot at shortstop Derek Jeter, blaming the team's ALCS loss to Texas on players "concentrating on building mansions."  "Sometimes you celebrate too much, players concentrating on building mansions and not concentrating on winning,'' Steinbrenner said in the hallway of George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Fla. Insisting he was not singling out the Yankee captain -- who built a 30,875-square-foot, seven-bedroom, nine-bathroom waterfront home on the nearby Davis Islands -- Steinbrenner said the team was "maybe riding the wave" of the 2009 World Series victory too much. The mansion, which was dubbed "St. Jetersburg," by the St. Petersburg, Fla.-area locals, reportedly includes two three-car garages, an entertainment room, a billiard room, and a memorabilia room.  Neighbors reportedly objected to the 11-time All-Star building a six-foot fence around the property. The 36-year-old Jeter, who has won five World Series titles with the Yankees, heads into this season after tough, and at times contentious, negotiations with the team which ended with him signing a three-year, $51 million deal. Jeter batted a career-low .270 in 2010, but needs just 74 hits to reach the milestone number of 3,000 career hits.

Aretha Franklin will discuss illness on 'Wendy Williams'

Aretha Franklin is set to open up in an exclusive interview with talk show host Wendy Williams about the health troubles that led to her hospitalization last year.  The Queen of Soul, who underwent surgery in December to treat the undisclosed ailment, dismissed reports she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and she said in January that the condition had been resolved. She has granted her first big post-surgery interview to Williams, inviting the TV host to her Detroit home for tea. The chat will take place later this week and air on "The Wendy Williams Show" shortly afterward. Meanwhile, Franklin will make her live comeback at the Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel in Buffalo, N.Y., on May 28, before performing a three-night stand June 3-5 at the Fox Theatre in Detroit.

TV NEWS

Rapper Ja Rule has invited cameras into his home to document his life before he begins a prison sentence. The rapper whose real name is Jeffrey Atkins is set to serve two years behind bars after pleading guilty to a gun charge relating to a 2007 arrest in New York. The hip-hop star has been making the most of his free time before his sentencing hearing next month by filming an as-yet-untitled reality series with his family. He explains, "My reality show, I like it because it's showing a strong black family going through a tough time. And how we band together as a family and how my wife and kids... bond together during this tough time when I have to go in.

Jon Gosselin has gotten a job working for Green Pointe Energy, a Pennsylvania-based company that specializes in renewable energy.


LeBron James is going to star in “Ballers,” a new comedy about a group of men who go to an adult basketball camp.


The Sun claims Glenn Close will play Susan Boyle in a new movie about the singer's rise to stardom.

Oprah Winfrey's school rocked over dead baby

Despite her efforts, even Oprah Winfrey's school in South Africa can't keep the reality of life for girls in that region from entering its gates. Currently, an investigation continues over the body of a dead baby discovered on Wednesday (Feb. 16) in a student's backpack. Local police say a dead newborn was discovered in a 17-year-old student's backpack while the student was being treated for excessive bleeding at a hospital. It is believed that she gave birth to the baby on school grounds and handed the backpack to hospital workers herself. The school has declined to comment, since a minor is involved. The student is currently undergoing questioning by local authorities and an autopsy is underway on the body to determine cause of death. Oprah Winfrey opened up her school for girls in South Africa in 2007 to offer those students not only an education, but also a sanctuary from the daily challenges of abuse, rape, and prejudice girls experience in that part of the country.

 

 

Daytona 500: Trevor Bayne pulls surprise victory

250:1. Those were rookie part-time NASCAR driver Trevor Bayne's odds going into the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 20. Clearly, the odds didn't have any part in Sunday's race. Bayne won the 53rd running thanks to two caution flags late in the race. Bayne, who turned 20 on Saturday, used a push from Carl Edwards and Bobby Labonte and withstood a late charge from Tony Stewart to win. Edwards came in second and David Gilliland in third, which helped Ford sweep the top three spots. Labonte came in fourth and Kurt Busch finished in fifth. Bayne is the race's youngest winner ever and it was only his second career Cup start. The race featured a record 74 lead changes among 23 drivers. It also set a record for the most cautions: 16

 

 

 

'Unknown' bests 'I Am Number Four' at Friday box office

 

 

Tyler Perry's "For Colored Girls" tops DVD chart

Tyler Perry's "For Colored Girls" opened at No. 1 on the latest national DVD sales chart, beat a pair of other new releases that did better at the box office.

 

 

 

Co-producer of 'Narnia' films dies at 39 in NYC

Perry Moore, a co-producer of "The Chronicles of Narnia" film series and the author of an award-winning novel about a gay teenager with superpowers, was found unconscious in his bathroom and died later at a hospital, police said. He was 39.  Moore was found unconscious in the bathroom of his Manhattan home Thursday, and doctors couldn't save his life, police said. The cause of death will be determined by the city's medical examiner, but no foul play was suspected. Moore had a varied career in television and in film, as producer, screenwriter and director. His 2007 novel, "Hero," won the Lambda Literary Award for best novel for young gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender children or adults. Moore was an executive producer on all three hugely successful "Narnia" films, and authored a best-selling illustrated book for the first film, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." He directed a 2008 drama with Sissy Spacek called "Lake City" and co-directed a documentary about children's book author Maurice Sendak with Hunter Hill and Spike Jonze.

Elizabeth Taylor improving but still hospitalized

Elizabeth Taylor's health is improving, but the Oscar winner is still hospitalized in Los Angeles. A spokeswoman for the 78-year-old actress says Taylor "has continued to show great improvement, and her family and friends are very pleased with her progress." Publicist Jamie Cadwell said that Taylor will remain under observation at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center "for the time being." She was admitted more than a week ago. Taylor is being treated for symptoms of congestive heart failure, a condition she disclosed in November 2004.

Cee-Lo added to Rihanna's 'Loud' tour

The "F**k You" hitmaker and the "Rude Boy" singer will hit the road for 14 arena shows in North America as part of Rihanna's "Loud" tour. The trek begins at the MTS Centre in Winnipeg, Canada, June 18, and ends in New Jersey one month later.  "I'm a huge fan of Cee Lo since his days with Goodie Mob and with Gnarls Barkley.  He's a musical genius, continually reinventing himself and I'm thrilled to have him join me on tour," Rihanna said on her website.

TV NEWS

"Glee" has recruited "My Life on the D-List's" Kathy Griffin and "Grey's Anatomy's" Loretta Devine to guest star as two of the judges for the regional competition, TV Line reports. The third judge has yet to be announced. Griffin will play home-schooling Tea Party candidate Tammy Jean, while Devine is playing former stripper Sister Mary Constance. Griffin is obviously excited about her new guest-starring gig -- she tweeted "So excited!! It's true!!"

"The Oprah Winfrey Show" takes a Vickin' and keeps on tickin'. On the heels of losing Michael Vick, then replacing the quarterback with David Arquette, Oprah Winfrey recovers nicely by scoring another huge booking. Diana Ross will be appearing on the Feb. 25 episode and she's bringing her family along with her It's quite the score for the 25-year talk show vet. Ross is bringing along all her kids, including "Girlfriends" actress Tracee Ellis Ross and Evan Ross, who's currently on The CW's "90210." Plus, she's bringing along her first grandson who was born in 2009. But, that's not all Ross is bringing to Oprah's stage. The singer will be performing on the show for the first time on TV in four years.

In what would mark her first full-time series gig, Ashley Judd is nearing a deal to headline the ABC action-drama Missing. Originally slated to air over the summer but now eyed for a fall launch, Missing centers on a former CIA agent (Judd) who travels overseas in search of her MIA son.

Players And N.F.L. Accept Mediation
In an attempt to jump-start negotiations that stalled a week ago, representatives for N.F.L. owners and the league’s players planned to engage in seven consecutive days of talks with a federal mediator beginning Friday. The collective bargaining agreement expires in less than two weeks, and the decision to attempt to intensify negotiations with the help of a neutral party is the first significant move at making progress since owners abruptly canceled a negotiating session last week. But the developments do not guarantee a new deal will be finished before the current one expires after March 3. The two sides had agreed during a session the day before the Super Bowl to meet twice a week until March 3, but those sessions did not proceed after owners and the union could not agree on whether a document the league received from the union constituted a proposal on how to split revenue or was merely an illustration. Consultation with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service is voluntary and is not binding, meaning the mediator, George H. Cohen, the agency’s director, merely hopes to help the sides find common ground. The sessions are scheduled to take place in Washington.

Closing arguments finished in Buju Banton trial

Closing arguments in the federal drug trial of Grammy-winning reggae singer Buju Banton have ended, setting the stage for jurors to deliberate on his fate. The 37-year-old Banton is accused of conspiring with two other men in setting up a drug deal in December of 2009. His album "Before the Dawn" won a Grammy for best reggae album this week, and he remains wildly popular in his native Jamaica. This is Banton's second trial; a jury deadlocked in his first trial last year. If convicted of all the charges, he faces up to life in prison. Every seat in the federal courtroom in Tampa was filled as the lawyers gave their closing arguments; many of the seats were taken by Banton's friends and fans.
 Singer Celine Dion and husband Renee Angelil debut their 4-month old twins on the Vegas Strip.

Gaga lands the 1,000th number one single on Billboard

Lady Gaga has scored the 1,000th number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart after crashing in at the top with her new song "Born This Way." The track, which was released to much fanfare on Friday, has also entered high on the influential Radio Songs countdown, breaking Janet Jackson's 10-year-old record for the most-played debut. The new tune also breaks Britney Spears' record as the highest debuting female artist -- fans downloaded 448,000 copies of "Born This Way," which is now the third largest debut among all digital tracks behind Flo Rida's "Right Round" and the Black Eyed Peas' "Boom Boom Pow."

Lance Armstrong Re-Retiring
Cyclist, Lance Armstrong, is re-retiring after he came out of retirement two years ago. Armstrong came back from testicular cancer to win the Tour de France a record seven times and channeled that into raising millions of dollars for cancer research. Armstrong says he's retiring from professional cycling in order to devote his time to his family, to the fight against cancer and to leading the Livestrong foundation he established. So far, his foundation has raised over $400 million dollars.


TV NEWS
Actor David Arquette will now be featured on the Feb. 24th episode of "The Oprah Winfrey Show" instead of NFL star Michael Vick. "I can now confirm that next Thursday's episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show will now feature an exclusive sitdown with David Arquette in his first interview post-rehab," Oprah's rep says.


Billboard is reviving its annual music awards show with the first broadcast scheduled for May 22. The Billboard Music Awards, telecast live from Las Vegas on ABC, will honor artists with the most sales in various musical genres. That contrasts with the just-concluded Grammy Awards, a more subjective honor based on the votes of industry professionals.

Orlando Jones is venturing past his comedic background in favor of grittier fare. Jones’ agent confirmed that the comedian/actor -- a former “MADtv” cast member and 7 Up pitchman -- has landed a starring role in ABC’s procedural pilot “Identity.” Jones will play Agent Wareing, a member of an elite police unit dedicated to battling the growing scourge of identity-related crime. Jones, who had recurring roles in the CBS comedy “Rules of Engagement” and ABC’s comedy/drama “Men In Trees,” will also play civil-rights activist Bobby Seale in the film “The Chicago 8,” based on the infamous trial following the tumultuous 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

"Family Guy" creator, Seth MacFarlane will be the host when Comedy Central roasts Donald Trump. His previous reign as Roast Master for the COMEDY CENTRAL Roast Of David Hassellhoff scored big with viewers. The special was the number one show in all of television with men 18-34.



"Easy Rider" Peter Fonda will be making a guest star appearance on CSI:NY. He will play an ex-partner of Det. Mac Taylor (Gary Sinise) for two episodes that will air in late April. Fonda, who will play William Hunt, will reconnect with Mac after a bad guy they once put away is released from prison. This "reformed" criminal has a vendetta against Fonda's character.

In a sit-down Sarah Jessica Parker reveals that a third "Sex and the City" movie could happen, despite the second's underwhelming response from audiences and critics alike (not to mention those Razzie nominations). "I would go back," says Parker. "I think there's one more story to tell. I know there is. I'd definitely tell that [third] story, and I know [writer-director] Michael [Patrick King] would do it right. But maybe not now. Maybe in five years, you know?" As for rumors of a "Sex" prequel starring Blake Lively as a young Carrie Bradshaw during her early days in New York, SJP says no way.

Oksana Grigorieva Extortion Case Going to District Attorney
Oksana Grigorieva extortion case is now in the hands of the L.A. County District Attorney". The investigation is about a $15 million deal Oksana signed and then rejected during child custody mediation in May, last year. The deal included child support, a house, and other assets ... plus the guarantee that Oksana would NOT release the audio tapes of Mel's now infamous rants. The D.A. will now determine if Oksana will be charged with a crime.

'Seinfeld' actor Len Lesser dies at 88

Len Lesser, the veteran character actor best known for his scene-stealing role as Uncle Leo on "Seinfeld," died Wednesday. He was 88. Lesser's family said in a statement that he died in Burbank, Calif., from cancer-related pneumonia. "Heaven got a great comedian and actor today," his daughter, Michele, said in the statement. "The outpouring of sympathy we've already received has been amazing and is so greatly appreciated. Thank you to all the people who helped make my father's last journey special and surrounded with love." Lesser's lengthy list of television credits included parts on "Get Smart," "That Girl," "The Munsters," "The Monkees," "The Rockford Files," "thirtysomething," "ER," and "Everybody Loves Raymond," which featured Lesser in a recurring role as the arm-shaking Garvin. His film credits included "Outlaw Josey Wales," "Kelly's Heroes," "Birdman of Alcatraz" and "Death Hunt." He most recently appeared on the TV drama "Castle." He is survived by his daughter, Michele; son, David; daughter-in-law, Julie; and grandchildren, Jonathan, Kayla, and Mayah.

Jessica Alba Is Pregnant

It's baby no. 2 for Jessica Alba and Cash Warren. The actress announced on her Facebook page and Twitter account Wednesday that she and her husband are expecting their second child. "I thought I'd drop by to let you all in on some exciting news – Honor is going to be a Big Sister!" Alba, 29, wrote. "Cash and I are thrilled and wanted to share the news directly with you so you didn't hear about it somewhere else.
 Little Robert Ford Wilson, 4 weeks, rests peacefully while his mom, Jade Duell, carries him in his car seat to a family dinner in the first photo of Owen Wilson‘s new baby.

Halle Berry Appears in Court for Custody Battle

Halle Berry made her first appearance Wednesday in Los Angeles Superior Court in her custody dispute with ex-boyfriend Gabriel Aubry. Berry, did not testify in the closed-door hearing. Aubry was not there, but was represented by his lawyers. The hearing centered on whether Berry could take their daughter Nahla, who turns 3 next month, to New York so the actress could film for a role for New Year's Eve, which Aubry was against. "We were very happy with the result today, but because this is a paternity case, I can't say anything about it," Berry's attorney Neal Raymond Hersh said. Berry is taking a smaller part than the one for which she was first cast, but isn't playing due to the custody fight. That larger role has since gone to Katherine Heigl.  In December, Aubry petitioned the court to formally recognize that he's Nahla's father and to secure his custody rights. Berry's rep then issued a statement saying the actress had "serious concerns" for Nahla when in the care of Aubry. Aubry has withdrawn the publicly filed petition and the case is now proceeding in private.

Wonder Woman is... 'Friday Night Lights' star Adrianne Palicki!

After much fan discussion on who should play NBC's Wonder Woman, the decision has been made. And we have a feeling that fans will soon organize a parade around this news. Who better to fill Lynda Carter's red boots than modern-day goddess, "Friday Night Lights" star Adrianne Palicki. Is this the kind of casting that can only be conceived in heaven or what? Palicki will assume the role of Diana Prince in NBC's reboot of the 1970s series. Executive produced by "Boston Legal" writer David E. Kelley, the NBC series will be a "serious and non-campy" take on the DC Comics creation.

Aretha Franklin talks return to stage, diet change

Franklin said in an interview that she's set to perform at the Seneca Niagara Casino in Buffalo, N.Y., on May 28. It's the same month that she said Wal-Mart Stores Inc. will release her long-awaited album "Aretha: A Woman Falling Out of Love." The Queen of Soul had surgery in December for an undisclosed ailment. Since then, the 68-year-old has revamped her diet, giving up her beloved chitterlings, pigs' feet and ham hocks in favor of a whole-foods-type diet. She's lost weight and hopes to get down to a size 14.

New York Times fires back at Whoopi for 'reading the story incorrectly'

Bosses at The New York Times have spoken out about an Oscars article Whoopi Goldberg branded "sloppy" for not including her on a list of previous black honorees. A spokesperson for the Times said "The error lies with those who are reading the story incorrectly. The point of the piece was not to name every black actor or actress who has been awarded an Oscar; it was to draw a comparison between the number who won prior to 2002 (the year Halle Berry and Denzel Washington won) and those who have won since. The story states very clearly that in 73 years, prior to 2002, only seven black actors/actresses won Oscars."

Whoopi Goldberg apologizes for blasting New York Times writers

Whoopi Goldberg has offered the editors of The New York Times a formal apology for branding a recent article about black Oscar honorees "sloppy," after publication bosses said the actress had read the story incorrectly. On Wednesday's episode of "The View," she admitted she had found the story confusing and conceded that she was wrong to blast the writers' credentials. She told viewers, "I personally found the article really confusing, and as I said, I was also quite hurt that Cuba Gooding Jr., Louis Gossett Jr. and myself were not included in this exposé about black Hollywood. But for saying it was shoddy reporting, I apologize, New York Times."

Michael Vick: Eagles QB Shocks The World, Cancels on Oprah

"Michael Vick was scheduled to be a guest on 'The Oprah Winfrey Show' for an episode airing next Thursday, February 24," a press release from Winfrey's Harpo Productions explained. "Mr. Vick's representatives called last night to cancel his appearance for personal reasons." In a statement Vick said: “After careful consideration, I will need to postpone the taping of the Oprah Winfrey interview scheduled for February 22. I admire and respect Oprah and hope to be able to participate in an interview in the future.” In August 2007, he pleaded guilty to federal felony charges and served 21 months in prison, followed by two months of in-home confinement. Vick returned to football in 2009 and was recently named NFL Comeback Player of the Year by The Associated Press.

TV NEWS
Van Der Beek will play "James Van Der Beek" in ABC's comedy pilot "Don't Trust the B***h in Apartment 23." Like Larry David in "Curb Your Enthusiasm" or Matt LeBlanc in "Episodes," he'll play a version of himself as written by the show's creator, Nahnatchka Khan ("American Dad"). The pilot centers on June (Dreama Walker of "The Good Wife"), a girl from the Midwest who moves into an apartment with a New York scenester (Krysten Ritter, "Breaking Bad") who proceeds to make June's life extremely complicated. The not-quite-real Van Der Beek is a friend of Ritter's character.

The cast of "Glee" has broken another record on the music charts, claiming the all-time lead for entries on Billboard's Hot 100 singles chart. With the latest chart -- which incidentally features the 1,000th different No. 1 song since the chart began in 1958 in Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" -- "Glee" has 113 entries on the list. That passes the previous mark of 108 held by the King of Rock 'n' Roll. (It's also more than James Brown's 91, Ray Charles' 74, Aretha Franklin's 73 and The Beatles' 71.) There is a bit of a caveat to the bigger-than-Elvis story, however: The Hot 100 was born in 1958, and Presley had more than 20 songs on the Billboard airplay and sales charts in the two years before the Hot 100 (or Pop 100, as it was called prior to 1984) made its debut.

Note to self: Never play "Jeopardy!" with a supercomputer. That's a useful lesson for me or any mortal who has followed the Man vs. Machine faceoff this week on the popular trivia game show, where on Wednesday the second of two exhibition matches sealed the deal: Watson, the IBM-created megabrain, officially buried his flesh-and-blood opponents, veteran "Jeopardy!" champs Ken Jennings and Brad Rutter.

Melissa Rycroft Strickland is a mom! The former Bachelor contestant and her husband, insurance agent Tye Strickland, welcomed a daughter on Wednesday afternoon, her rep confirmed. Ava Grace Strickland, born in Dallas and weighing 6 lbs., 13 oz., is the first child for the pair, who wed in December 2009 in Mexico. Mother and child are resting comfortably.