Hector Camacho shot in Puerto Rico

Former world boxing champion Hector ''Macho'' Camacho was shot in the face as he sat in a car outside the Puerto Rican capital Tuesday, and doctors said he was in serious condition but expected to survive. Another man in the car, whose relationship to the 50-year-old Camacho wasn't immediately known, died in the attack in which at least one gunman opened fire on their vehicle in the city of Bayamon, according to a statement from police. Camacho was rushed to Centro Medico, the trauma center in San Juan, where he was in critical but stable condition, Dr. Ernesto Torres, the hospital director. The bullet apparently struck him in the jaw but exited his head and lodged in his right shoulder and fractured two vertebrae, Torres said. The doctor said the boxer, who was trailed by drug and alcohol problems during a career that included some high-profile bouts, could be paralyzed from the shooting. According to outlet Primera Hora, Torres said that while doctors first suspected a bullet had lodged in Camacho’s brain, his brain in fact had not been impacted by any bullet. No arrests have been made in the shooting, police said. Camacho representative Steve Tannenbaum said he was told by friends at the hospital that the boxer would make it. ''This guy is a cat with nine lives. He's been through so much,'' he said. ''If anybody can pull through it will be him.'' The fighter's last title bout came against then-welterweight champion Oscar De La Hoya in 1997, a loss by unanimous decision. Tannenbaum said he was going to fight two years ago in Denmark until his opponent pulled out and that they were looking at a possible bout in 2013.  Camacho has a career record of 79-5-3, with his most recent fight coming in 2009. Drug, alcohol and other problems have trailed Camacho since the prime of his boxing career. He was sentenced in 2007 to seven years in prison for the burglary of a computer store in Mississippi. While arresting him on the burglary charge in January 2005, police also found the drug ecstasy. A judge eventually suspended all but one year of the sentence and gave Camacho probation. He wound up serving two weeks in jail, though, after violating that probation. Twice his wife filed domestic abuse complaints against him, and she filed for divorce several years ago.

Sesame Workshop says Elmo actor Kevin Clash resigned, calling sex allegations 'distraction'

Elmo puppeteer Kevin Clash has resigned from "Sesame Street" in the wake of an allegation that he had sex with an underage youth. In its statement Tuesday, Sesame Workshop said "the controversy surrounding Kevin's personal life has become a distraction that none of us want," leading Clash to conclude "that he can no longer be effective in his job." "This is a sad day for Sesame Street," the company said. In a statement of his own, Clash said "personal matters have diverted attention away from the important work Sesame Street is doing and I cannot allow it to go on any longer. I am deeply sorry to be leaving and am looking forward to resolving these personal matters privately." As the announcement was made, a lawsuit was being filed in federal court in New York charging Clash with sexual abuse of a second youth. The lawsuit alleges that Cecil Singleton, then 15 and now an adult, was persuaded by Clash to meet for sexual encounters.  Singleton claims ... although the sex occurred nearly 20 years ago, he didn't take action until now because ... he "did not become aware that he had suffered adverse psychological and emotional effects from Kevin Clash's sexual acts and conduct until 2012." The lawsuit seeks damages in excess of $5 million. Clash, who had been on "Sesame Street" for 28 years, created the high-pitched voice and child-like persona for Elmo, a furry, red Muppet that became one of the most popular characters on the show and one of the company's most lucrative properties. Sesame Workshop produces "Sesame Street" in New York. Clash's exit followed a tumultuous week that began on Nov. 12 with a statement from the company that Clash had requested a leave of absence following the charge by a man in his early 20s that he had had a relationship with Clash when he was 16. Clash denied the charge from that man, who has not been publicly identified, calling it "false and defamatory." Clash, the 52-year-old divorced father of a grown daughter, acknowledged that he is gay in that statement. Sesame Workshop, which said it was first contacted by the accuser in June, said it had launched an investigation that included meeting with the accuser twice and meeting with Clash. Its investigation found the charge of underage conduct to be unsubstantiated.  The next day Clash's accuser recanted his charge, describing his sexual relationship with Clash as adult and consensual. Clash responded that he was "relieved that this painful allegation has been put to rest." In addition to his marquee role as Elmo, Clash had served as the show's senior Muppet coordinator and Muppet captain. He won 23 daytime Emmy awards and one prime-time Emmy. In 2006, he published an autobiography, "My Life as a Furry Red Monster," and was the subject of the 2011 documentary "Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey." Though it remained unclear who might take over for Clash performing as Elmo, other "Sesame Street" puppeteers have been trained to serve as his stand-in, Sesame Workshop said. "Elmo is bigger than any one person," the company said last week.

Guardianship extended for 'Modern Family' star

Ariel Winter, 14, will remain in the care of her adult sister, Shanelle Gray, for now, a judge ruled Tuesday in the family's bitter fight over the Modern Family actress. A Department of Children and Family Services report to the court found evidence of emotional abuse by Ariel's mother, Chrisoula Workman, but that Ariel's allegations of physical abuse were "unsubstantiated." The report also recommended that Gray be awarded permanent guardianship. A trial date will be set to settle that question. Anita Gumm, an attorney for Chrisoula, had argued that Gray, 34, was an unfit guardian because she's "too young" and "has her own family to deal with," and raised speculation that Gray and her husband were only interested in caring for Ariel for their own personal gain. "We implore the court to send the kid to her dad," Gumm stated. "Being a controlling mother doesn't mean [my client] is unfit." But Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Levanas stated that Gray had said "eloquent things" at a prior hearing about the family needing to heal. "I don't think she has ulterior motives," he said. Earlier in the hearing, an attorney for Ariel's father, Glenn Workman, suggested that the father could move into the family home and have Ariel's mother move out. But the judge ruled against it: "I have questions about the nature and strength of the relationship with her father," Levanas said. (Ariel's parents have been separated for some time, with the father living elsewhere, according to his attorney.) Asked for comment following the hearing, Chrisoula said, "I love my daughter and I just want our family to be back together."

 Jamie Anne Allman is good at keeping secrets — but she’s ready to let this one out of the bag. The Killing star and husband Marshall Allman are expecting their first children — a set of twins! — this spring. Jamie Anne and Marshall is best known for his roles as Tommy on True Blood and L.J. on Prison Break. The Allmans were married in Austin, Texas in June 2006.


Jesse James reportedly engaged to heiress race car driver
Hope, they say, springs eternal, even when that hope is pinned on a guy whose infidelities are legion. Jesse James, a man so indiscriminate in his choice of nookie partners that he cheated on Sandra Bullock with a woman who posed for a Nazi-themed photo shoot, is engaged for the fifth time. Alexis DeJoria, 35, a race car driver whose billionaire dad co-founded the Paul Mitchell hair care empire and Patrón Tequila. James, 43, rebounded from getting ditched by America's sweetheart by proposing to Kat Von D early last year. But after a series of breakups and makeups, the tattoo artist finally stuck a fork in the relationship, claiming in a "once a cheater, always a cheater" Facebook post that the father of three had two-timed her with 19 different women. James hooked up with fellow ink stain enthusiast Alexis in September after they met on the racing circuit. "Jesse has been helping her compete," says a source. "He's been hanging out in her pit area during races, passing on his expertise to the team of mechanics, and was even spotted helping Alexis pack up her parachute after a race." The insider also points out that DeJoria, who is mom to a 9-year-old daughter, "has lived a good life so far, and one day, when her inheritance comes through, she will be a very wealthy lady."

Danica divorcing husband after 7 years

One day after Danica Patrick was named the NASCAR Nationwide Series Most Popular Driver, she posted on Facebook that her marriage with Paul Hospenthal has ended. "I am sad to inform my fans that after 7 years, Paul and I have decided to amicably end our marriage," Patrick said via her Facebook account. "This isn't easy for exither of us, but mutually it has come to this. He has been an important person and friend in my life and that's how we will remain moving forward." The pair married in November 2005. Patrick, 30, is 16 years younger than Hospenthal. Patrick finished 10th in the 2012 Nationwide Series points standings driving for JR Motorsports, the best finish ever by a woman in any NASCAR series. Her best finish this season was eighth at Texas Motor Speedway. Her career-high finish in Nationwide came last year with her fourth-place finish at Las Vegas, also a NASCAR best for a female. In 10 starts with Stewart-Haas Racing in the Sprint Cup Series, her best effort was posted at Phoenix where she finished 17th. She moves to Sprint Cup full time in 2013.


Deion Sanders Jr. Makes College Choice
Atlanta Sports Academy (GA) 2013 wide receiver Deion Sanders Jr. received an offer from SMU early Tuesday and committed to the Mustangs on the spot. "It feels great knowing my hard work paid off and I am a part of this great program," Sanders Jr. said. "Coach Jones and Coach Phillips are very close with the NFL, so their coaching ability is very good and I saw what Coach Phillips did with Houston and know his expertise can help me get to the next level." The 5-foot-7, 170-pound athlete had interest from Central Florida, South Florida and Rutgers, but he knew SMU was the place for him.  "Growing up in Dallas, it's nice to know I will be able to play in front of my dad and my mother. SMU, academically, is a great school, but I think I can help take this program to the top and turn everybody's world upside down and hopefully get a chance to play in the NFL like my father." A big reason Sanders Jr. knows SMU is the place for him is the fact that his dad has experience with head coach June Jones, who coached the elder Sanders with Atlanta Falcons in the NFL. "My dad didn't have to tell me much," Sanders Jr. said. "If you just look at the numbers and what he did at Hawaii, it's easy to tell that Coach Jones is a good coach. My dad mostly just told me that he was a good guy who will look out for you and care about you as a person."

'Blue Bloods' star Donnie Wahlberg hopes Jennifer Esposito is 'doing good'

Donnie Wahlberg hopes his "Blue Bloods" co-star Jennifer Esposito is OK, but has no idea when, or if, she's returning to the show. CBS suspended the actress from the Tom Selleck-starring police drama, claiming she can't fulfill the full-time demands of the show. Esposito fired back on Twitter, accusing the network of "absolutely shameful behavior." Esposito tweeted that she's been diagnosed with celiac disease and requires a reduced work schedule. Celiac disease is a digestive disorder caused by foods that contain gluten, a protein found in wheat. The network has said it hopes Esposito will be able to return.  For the time being, her role as Wahlberg's partner is being rotated by new characters played by Megan Ketch and Megan Goode. When asked about the change, the actor deflected the question. "Danny Reagan gets around. He likes girls a lot." Wahlberg made the comments on the red carpet of the International Emmy Awards. He said of Esposito: "She's a friend and I hope she's doing good. I love working with her, so we'll see what happens."


TV NEWS
Buoyed by Sunday Night Football, The Voice and freshman hit Revolution, NBC is poised to notch its first November sweeps victory in nine years. With 25 of 28 nights factored in, the Peacock is averaging a 2.8 rating, up 17 percent versus November 2011.


The CSIs are crossing over during February sweeps. CSI is slated to launch the event on Feb. 6, when CSI: NY‘s Mac Taylor (Gary Sinise) heads to Vegas and finds that his girlfriend has gone missing. The case will conclude in CSI: NY‘s Feb. 8 installment, when Ted Danson’s D.B. Russell visits New York to continue the investigation.


Acting vet Brian Dennehy has been tapped to appear in an episode of The Big C: hereafter, the Showtime drama’s upcoming four-part finale event (bowing in spring 2013). He’ll play Cathy and Sean’s father.


Michael Beach (Sons of Anarchy) has landed a recurring role on The Client List. He joins the Lifetime series as Loretta Devine’s character’s boyfriend.


Jane Kaczmarek will guest-star in an upcoming episode of Law & Order: SVU, playing a district attorney going up against Raul Esparza’s DA Barba.


Ben and Kate has cast Brittany Snow as a love interest for Tommy (Echo Kellum). She’ll appear in at least two episodes of the Fox comedy.


A little midseason tinkering is underway at The Mindy Project. Amanda Setton, who plays office sexpot Shauna on Fox’s rookie comedy, is departing the series. Additionally, Anna Camp, aka Gwen, the longtime BFF of Mindy Kaling’s titular OB/GYN, has been bumped from series regular to recurring. I’m told Setton is exiting for creative reasons, while Camp asked to be taken off contract — a move that will allow the in-demand actress to pursue other opportunities while continuing to appear on Mindy Project.

Tonight's Premieres:Food Network: Restaurant: Impossible at 9p
Showtime: Jim Rome on Showtime at 10p
Tonight's Finales:Bravo: Life After Top Chef at 9p
More Premieres, Finales and Specials happening over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
November 22 Special:CBS: The Thanksgiving Day Parade at 9a
November 22 Premieres:DIY Network: Cool Tools at 6p
Once TV Mexico: Bebidas de Mexico at 1130p
November 23 Premieres:Investigation Discovery: Facing Evil with Candace DeLong at 8p; Wives with Knives at 10p
IFC: Trapped in the Closet at 9p; Whisker Wars at 10p
truTV: Killer Karaoke at 9p
November 24 Premiere:DIY Network: Renovation Realities at 9p
November 24 Finale:OWN: Iyanla: Fix My Life at 10p
November 25 Premiere:Food Network: Sugar Dome at 8p
November 25 Finale:Investigation Discovery: Sins & Secrets at 9p

1960s, '70s hit R&B singer Billy Scott dies
Rhythm and blues singer Billy Scott has died in North Carolina at age 70. Bill Kopald with the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame said Scott died from pancreatic and liver cancer at his home in Charlotte. Born Peter Pendleton in Huntington, W.Va., he sang with various groups while in the Army. After he was discharged in 1964, he changed his name and, in 1966, with his wife, Barbara, began recording as the Prophets. Their first gold record was 1968's "I Got the Fever." Other hits included "California" and "Seaside Love," recorded as the Georgia Prophets.

Mediation Could Save Twinkies
Twinkie the Kid’s ride into the sunset hit a hurdle Monday when Hostess Brands, unions and lenders agreed to mediation to try to save the company, and its spongy, yellow cake, from liquidation. The decision staves off, for a couple of days at least, Hostess’ plans to shut down its 33 factories and lay off 18,500 workers after an acrimonious labor dispute that could lead to the end of the 82-year-old company and its well-known brands such as Twinkies, Ho-Hos, Sno-Balls and Wonder bread. During the hearing, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Robert Drain urged the parties to come to an agreement through mediation rather than through a public, and costly, hearing. The court called a short recess while the lawyer for the baker's union phoned his client to see if the union would agree to a mediation process tomorrow. After the recess, the sides agreed to a mediation session Tuesday at 1 p.m. ET to try to work things out. If they can't resolve it, and come to an understanding of the underlying motives behind the worker strike that the company said crippled its business, the bankruptcy hearing will resume Wednesday at 11 a.m ET. The sides will probably come to an agreement  on Tuesday, John Pottow, a bankruptcy law professor at the University of Michigan, said. The biggest sign, he said, is that the Teamsters were on board.  "The bakery union probably thought management was bluffing," Pottow said. After Hostess filed for permission to liquidate Friday, it became clear they weren't.  Court filings show that the company is asking for permission to pay $1.75 million in retention bonuses to 19 different managers as an incentive for sticking around during the liquidation process. Hostess Brands CEO Gregory Rayburn has publicly blamed the unions for the company's demise. The U.S. trustee, Hope Davis, an official appointed by the Justice Department to protect the interest of creditors, objected to this idea, filing a motion this morning which argued that Hostess officials "have failed to demonstrate that the proposed bonuses are true incentive bonuses and not disguised retention payments."  While today's results are likely to be minimal, in the coming months several different scenarios could play out, depending on who the buyer is, or if there is a buyer at all. "There's a lot of Goodwill that comes with the brand name," said Pottow, "A lot of companies could buy the name and recipe for Twinkies and make them." They wouldn't have to make them at the Twinkies factories either. They could make them in new facilities not burdened under old worker agreements that, for instance, required employing separate drivers for two different kinds of Hostess products rather than trucking them together.

Kimora Lee Simmons and Djimon Hounsou To Split

 Kimora Lee Simmons and husband Djimon Hounsou are heading to splitzville. As of now, it’s unsure what the marital status of these two is. They were married in West Africa in summer of 2008 because Kimora’s divorce from Russell Simmons wasn’t finalized yet and they reportedly never got a marriage license in the U.S. But an overseas marriage is still recognized as legit even if you don’t reside in the country where you actually got hitched.  Earlier this year, it was reported that their marriage was on the rocks because Kimora was spending too much money. However, Djimon himself personally shot down the rumors at the time saying “To that extent any and all claims are totally fabricated, and for the press to be spreading these lies is irresponsible on their part.”
 Funnyman Rob Schneider has a new little lady to keep laughing. The Deuce Bigalow actor and his wife, television producer Patricia, welcomed daughter Miranda Scarlett Schneider at 8:59 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 16, his manager confirmed.  She weighed in at 5 lbs., 13 oz. and is 18 inches long. “Mommy and Baby [are] happy and healthy!” Schneider, 49, Tweeted. Miranda is the first child together for the couple, who wed in April 2011. Schneider is also father to daughter Elle, 23, from his prior marriage to London King.


Late start to Madonna concert angers Miami fans
later-than-usual start for a Madonna concert in Miami angered fans in attendance. The Miami Herald reports that Madonna didn't take the stage until just after 11:30 p.m. Monday night. She typically begins performing at 10 p.m. Fans took to Twitter to voice their anger over the Material Girl's tardiness. Madonna has another concert scheduled for Tuesday night in Miami. Her website says the show is sold out.

Ariel Winter’s Dad Opposes Actress’s Guardianship

The father of “Modern Family” star Ariel Winter said Monday he is willing to care for his daughter and does not believe she should be placed in a guardianship after allegations that her mother has been physically and emotionally abusive. One day before a hearing in the case was scheduled to convene, Glenn Workman filed an objection to a petition that would strip his estranged wife, Chrisoula, of custody of the 14-year-old. Winter has been living with her adult sister, Shanelle Gray, since Oct. 3 when a judge created a temporary guardianship for the actress. Court filings described Chrisoula Workman as abusive to her daughter, including slapping her and calling her derogatory names. The judge ordered her to stay away and not contact the actress until at least Tuesday, when the guardianship will be re-evaluated. Glenn Workman’s objects to the contention in Gray’s initial court filing that he is not in a position to care for the teen actress. His filing does not address the abuse allegations against his wife, although he previously signed a handwritten declaration stating that the allegations were false and his daughter hadn’t been beaten. Glenn Workman acknowledges in the filing that problems with his wife have stymied his relationship with Winter at times, but he said he has been a caring father who is willing to care for her. He states that he does not need Winter’s money to care for her. “I want to provide for her a calm loving home environment that is a retreat from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood; a place where she can think and relax without any distractions,” Workman’s filing says.  Glenn Workman wrote that he objects to Winter remaining in the care of Gray, who he claims has alienated the actress from her parents. “This whole situation has turned into a circus and places Ariel in a position she should not have to be in,” he wrote. “I ask this court to allow me the chance to function as a healthy parent and help Ariel through this ordeal,” he wrote. Winter has been acting since age 7, appearing in several TV series, including “ER” and “Phineas and Ferb,” and movies such as “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,” '‘Ice Age: The Meltdown” and “ParaNorman.” She plays middle child Alex Dunphy on ABC’s “Modern Family.”

Rock band AC/DC releases entire catalog on iTunes

AC/DC is finally releasing its music digitally on iTunes. Columbia Records and Apple announced Monday that the classic rock band's music will be available at the iTunes Store worldwide. Sixteen studio albums will be released, including "High Voltage" and "Back in Black," which is already in the Top 30 on iTunes' top albums chart. Two of the group's albums are also in the Top 100 and several of the Australian band's songs are in the Top 200. AC/DC was one of the few acts that would not release music through the digital outlet. Two years ago Apple struck a deal with The Beatles' record label, EMI Group, and management company, and began selling the group's music. Kid Rock, who had also been against selling his music through the digital retailer, is releasing a new album, "Rebel Soul," on Monday and it's available on iTunes.  Silvio Pietroluongo, Billboard's director of charts, said AC/DC's decision isn't shocking. "It's something that I think artists realize they need to do in order to get their music into the hands of their fans and to make more money," he said. "Right now with CD sales being what they are, touring is the main source of income and not every band is equipped to be out on tour 200 days a year to make the kind of money the need to make, or want to make." Garth Brooks, however, has yet to release his music on iTunes. Pietroluongo said he believes the country star will come around, but he's not sure when that will be. Four of AC/DC's live albums and three compilation records are also available. The statement said the songs have been mastered for iTunes "with increased audio fidelity." The group's first live album in 20 years, "Live at River Plate," is out Tuesday.
 Looks like Jennie Garth isn’t the only one dipping her toes back into the dating pool — her estranged husband, Peter Facinelli, stepped out with a new lady on his arm on Thursday. The 38-year-old “Breaking Dawn – Part 2” star, who split from Jennie in March, was photographed having dinner and later holding hands with actress Jaimie Alexander, 28, in New York City on Thursday, ahead of Peter’s “Twilight Saga” film screening. Peter and Jaimie have known each other for a few years – she appeared in his film “Loosies,” and they have also starred in multiple episodes of “Nurse Jackie” together. Jaimie will next be seen on the big screen in “The Last Stand” with Arnold Schwarzenegger (January 18) and will reprise her role as Sif in “Thor: The Dark World” (slated to hit theaters in November 2013). Peter is currently filming “Gallows Hill,” a horror mystery film set for release next year.

David Beckham Leaving LA Galaxy

The midfielder will end his six-year playing career with the Southern California franchise on December 1 of this year. “I’ve had an incredibly special time playing for the LA Galaxy, however, I wanted to experience one last challenge before the end of my playing career,” Beckham said in a statement, posted on the LA Galaxy’s website on Monday night. “I don’t see this as the end of my relationship with the league as my ambition is to be part of the ownership structure in the future.” David, who moved stateside with his family in the hopes of helping the game grow its U.S. audience, said he is thankful for the experience he has had in LA, which included a championship in 2011. “In my time here I have seen the popularity of the game grow every year. I’ve been fortunate to win trophies, but more important to me has been the fantastic reception I’ve had from fans in LA and across the States,” his statement continued. “Soccer’s potential has no limits in this wonderful country and I want to always be part of growing it.” No details were available on Beckham’s next move. The LA Galaxy was encouraging fans to celebrate David’s last few weeks as a Galaxy player, by tagging their Tweets #FarewellBeckham.

'Trapped' on Broadway? R. Kelly is working on it

Is Broadway ready for Twan, Sylvester, Pimp Lucius and "the package"? R. Kelly thinks so -- and says he's working to bring the wacky characters and plotlines in his even wackier "Trapped in the Closet" series to the Great White Way. The superstar announced on Monday night that he's had an offer to bring the cult classic to the stage, and he may even be in some performances. "To transform it into a Broadway version, that's what I'm working on," he told a packed house at the Sunshine Theater, where he unveiled the latest chapters in "Trapped in the Closet," which will debut on the IFC on Friday.  Kelly gave no other details about a possible Broadway adaptation of the wildly popular video opera. It got its start from a stirring series of songs Kelly debuted in 2005, which ended with a cliff-hanger. The songs captured so much attention, Kelly made an over-the-top video series about it that just got crazier and crazier as he added more chapters.


Lindsay Lohan's probation will be revoked for lying to police
Lindsay Lohan is getting her probation revoked once criminal charges are filed against the actress for lying to a police officer. After her car accident in June, Lohan told Santa Monica police that she was not driving her Porsche when it crashed into an 18-wheeler on Pacific Coast Highway. But she actually was the one behind the wheel. Once the Santa Monica city attorney files the criminal case against the actress, it will head to Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Jane Godfrey for arraignment. Judge Godfrey will reportedly revoke Lohan's probation and set a hearing on the grounds that the actress violated her probation from her jewelry theft a year and a half ago

AMA Awards Fashion... more news below:


'Breaking Dawn -- Part 2' just misses 'Twilight' record with $141.3M
The popular vampire franchise’s final installment, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2, scored the eighth biggest opening weekend of all time with a $141.3 million debut. Impressively, Breaking Dawn – Part 2 also earned $199.6 million in its international debut this weekend, giving it an early global total of $340.9 million.
1. The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2 – $141.3 million
2. Skyfall – $41.5 million
3. Lincoln – $21.0 million
4. Wreck-It Ralph – $18.3 million
5. Flight – $8.6 million

Newt Gingrich calls Mitt Romney 'gifts' comment 'nuts'

The GOP has tried to distance itself from a comment made by Mitt Romney claiming he lost the presidential election because Barack Obama promised costly gifts to young and minority voters. Now Newt Gingrich has come forward to slam the remarks. Gingrich tells ABC, "I just think it's nuts. I mean, first of all, it's insulting." Gingrich continues, "The job of a political leader in part is to understand the people. If [Republicans] can't offer a better future that is believable to more people, we're not going to win." Louisiana's governor, Bobby Jindal, was one of the first in the party to speak out against the comments by Romney, telling Fox, "I'm proud to have campaigned for him across the country, but I absolutely reject what he said."

Jessica Simpson's father changes plea in DUI case

Jessica Simpson's father has avoided a potential prison sentence by pleading no contest to a drunk driving charge.  Former minister Joe Simpson, 54, was arrested in August on suspicion of driving under the influence after his car was stopped by police at a checkpoint in Sherman Oaks, Calif.  He initially entered a not guilty plea to the DUI charge, which left him facing up to a year behind bars if convicted, but he has now backtracked after striking a deal with prosecutors. Under the terms of the deal, Simpson will be sentenced to three years probation and a fine, and he will also be ordered to attend an alcohol education class.

TV NEWS
It’s a sad day for fans of two ambitious ABC dramas that came up short in the ratings this fall: Last Resort and 666 Park Avenue will soon end their runs. ABC will finish airing the original 13-episode orders for both shows, but neither will receive a full-season pickup.


Discovery Channel has made the decision to ‘chop’ the heart of the network’s reality programming. After a ten-year run, American Chopper, a family-based reality program, will be ending on the network. The final episode of the series will air as part of a two-episode special on December 11.


More bummer news for former Desperate Housewives star Nicollette Sheridan: The actress’ appeal to the California Supreme Court regarding to her wrongful termination lawsuit against ABC was denied. The response on Friday by the judge was brief Three months ago, Sheridan’s petition for a new hearing was given a thumbs-down by the California 2nd District Court of Appeal. Sheridan first filed a lawsuit in April 2010 that claimed she was fired after complaining that series creator Marc Cherry hit her during an on-set argument. It ended in a mistrial last March.


Oscar winner Jamie Foxx is set to host the Dec. 8 edition of Saturday Night Live, NBC announced during this week’s show. Foxx, star of the upcoming Quentin Tarantino western Django Unchained, will be joined by musical guest Ne-Yo.


Here is a full list of the winners for the American Music Awards: 
Artist of the year: Justin Bieber
New artist of the year: Carly Rae Jepsen
Pop/rock female artist: Katy Perry
Pop/rock male artist: Justin Bieber
Pop/rock band, duo or group: Maroon 5
Pop/rock album: Justin Bieber, Believe
Country female artist: Taylor Swift
Country male artist: Luke Bryan
Country band, duo or group: Lady Antebellum
Country album: Carrie Underwood, Blown Away
Rap/hip-hop artist: Nicki Minaj
Rap/hip-hop album: Nicki Minaj, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded
Soul/R&B female artist: Beyonce
Soul/R&B male artist: Usher
Soul/R&B album: Rihanna, Talk That Talk
Alternative rock artist: Linkin Park
Adult contemporary artist: Adele
Latin artist: Shakira
Contemporary inspirational artist: tobyMac
Electronic dance music artist: David Guetta

 Lucille Bliss' name might not be immediately familiar, but she helped bring some of our favorite cartoon characters to life. Bliss, who died last week at the age of 96, was the voice of Cinderella's nastiest stepsister, Crusader Rabbit, Elroy Jetson and blue-skinned seductress Smurfette. Bliss' 60-year career started when she borrowed $50 to travel to Los Angeles to audition for the role of Anastasia in Walt Disney's "Cinderella." "Six months later I got a phone call [offering me the job]," she said.

Sherman Hemsley to receive military funeral

Actor Sherman Hemsley will be laid to rest at a military funeral more than three months after his death in July. Hemsley, best known for his role on the TV show "The Jeffersons," died in Texas after a battle with lung cancer, but his memorial service was delayed and his body was held at a funeral home while the courts ruled on a dispute over his will.  A judge in El Paso, Texas, decided on Friday that the star's will is valid and gave permission for Hemsley's benefactor, his longtime friend and manager, Flora Enchinton Bernal, to finally go ahead with funeral plans. Bernal's attorney, Alexander Neill, says Hemsley will be given a military funeral and laid to rest at Fort Bliss National Cemetery in El Paso in tribute to his years served in the United States Air Force before he took up acting.
 Meet Aden John Tanner Housley!
Adam and Tamera Mowry-Housley introduce their new son in a photo shared on both of their Twitter pages.

Christian Bale bails - Ridley Scott's "Child 44" without a star

Ridley Scott will have to go back to the drawing board to find his lead for the 1940's Soviet military murder suspense film, "Child 44." The script -- based on a book by Tom Rob Smith -- is being penned by Richard Price. The plot, based on a true story, centers around a Ukranian child serial killer.

The man who accused "Sesame Street's" Elmo puppeteer Kevin Clash of having an illegal sexual relationship with him when he was only 16 years old might have recanted his story, but that doesn't mean the public was any less interested in knowing who he is. So it's time to meet Sheldon Stephens, an aspiring 24-year-old model and actor currently living in Pennsylvania. Stephens was reportedly arrested for robbing a music manager that he interned for at knifepoint for $250,000 worth of jewelry. The source who revealed that Stephens was the other person involved in this scandal says he "attracts these high-powered men" but is a "God-fearing guy" and "not just a pretty boy." On Nov. 13, the law firm who was representing Stephens, Andreozzi & Associates, revealed that their client had recanted his claim that he and Clash had been in a sexual relationship seven years prior, when Stephens was only 16. "He wants it to be known that his sexual relationship with Mr. Clash was an adult, consensual relationship," the statement reads. For his part, Clash said via a spokesperson, "I am relieved that this painful allegation has been put to rest. I will not discuss it further."


TV NEWS
Billy Dee Williams (Star Wars) is set to make a cameo in Modern Family‘s Season 4 holiday installment. Additionally, Nathan Lane will reprise his role as Cam and Mitch’s friend, Pepper Saltzman, in an upcoming ep.

NBC has ordered more Guys With Kids. The network is moving forward with four new episodes of the Jimmy Fallon-produced comedy, bringing the season count to 17.


Dean Winters is slated to return as Liz’s icky ex Dennis Duffy in 30 Rock‘s final season.

Playing a little game of catch-up, ABC has scheduled a double helping of Private Practice for next week, airing the Addison POV episode in the regular Tuesday time slot, then adding in the Jake-centric outing on Wednesday at 10/9c (bumping a Nashville repeat).


TV Land has renewed The Soul Man for a second season, Cedric the Entertainer announced via Twitter. And the cabler has added 10 additional episodes to The Exes‘ sophomore run.


Nip/Tuck alumna Roma Maffia has booked a multi-ep arc on Grey’s Anatomy. The actress joins as a member of the hospital’s board.

A&M player found safe
Texas A&M freshman wide receiver Thomas Johnson has been found safe in Dallas after he disappeared from campus three days ago. Johnson's mother, Linda Hanks, says Texas A&M University police told her Thursday the 18-year-old is unharmed. University police said they traveled to Dallas to look for Johnson on Wednesday. Johnson was found safe about 2:30 a.m. Thursday with the help of the Dallas police and the Texas Rangers state police. Police said Wednesday that Johnson was last seen leaving his College Station residence around 5 p.m. Monday. Hanks told WFAA-TV she traveled from Dallas to College Station while authorities searched for her son. He turned up 180 miles away in Dallas. Hanks says Johnson didn't contact her and that she has no other information. Campus police said that they are not releasing further details. Coach Kevin Sumlin says he's relieved Johnson has been found and is concerned for Johnson's health and well-being. Johnson played in 10 games this season, with 30 catches for 339 yards and a touchdown.

Turlock Woman Loses Job over Facebook Post
Denise Helms of Turlock, Calif., is mystified as to why the racist comment about Obama she posted on Facebook — you know, that community with more than 1 billion users — has attracted so much attention. Since posting, "And another 4 years of the (N-word) maybe he will get assassinated this term..!!" Tuesday night, Helms has been fired and is now being investigated by the Secret Service. Cold Stone Creamery spent much of Thursday responding to angry tweets about the woman’s post. “This employee is no longer w/the (sic) company & her disgraceful and completely unacceptable comments do not reflect our views,” one such tweet read. Denise Helms had already removed her post and has since deactivated her Facebook account. In an interview, she said that what she posted was wrong. She also maintained that she is not a racist. “I think I was just really upset, and (the post) just kind of came out,” Helms said.



Jon Bon Jovi's Teen Daughter, Stephanie Bongiovi, Arrested After Possible Heroin Overdose

The 19-year-old daughter of rocker Jon Bon Jovi was arrested on drug possession charges after she may have overdosed on heroin in her college dorm room in Upstate New York. Stephanie Rose Bongiovi, a student a Hamilton College in Clinton, N.Y., was expected to be released from the hospital Wednesday, according to police. Officers and a volunteer ambulance squad were called to the dorm at about 1:51 a.m. Wednesday to assist a woman who had possibly overdosed on heroin and was not responsive, police say. After finding a small amount of heroin, police arrested a student, Ian S. Grant, 21, who, like Bongiovi, is from Red Bank, N.J. A later search of the dorm also turned up additional heroin, marijuana and drug paraphernalia, say police. Bongiovi, one of the rocker's four children with wife Dorothea Hurley, was then also arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. She was released and ordered to return to court. All of the charges are misdemeanors. "In addition to violating state law, the actions alleged to have been committed by the students violate Hamilton College policy," the college says in a statement. "The college is cooperating with the police investigation. Our first concern is always for the safety of our students. Out of respect for the privacy of our students and in accordance with federal regulations we do not discuss individual health or disciplinary matters."

 She has been plotting and scheming her way through Survivor: Philippines, but now Lisa Whelchel is facing another challenge: She is fighting the West Nile virus. On Tuesday, the newly single former Facts of Life star, 49, tweeted her diagnosis. "Dr. just called with blood test results...I have West Nile. Ugh. I'm fine, just tired. Takes a year to recover," she wrote. There is no indication that her diagnosis is related to her stint on Survivor, which wrapped up filming in April. Although the disease is spread by mosquitoes, there have been nearly 4,000 cases in the U.S. this year. The symptoms include fatigue and body aches. Although battling West Nile isn't the type of challenge Whelchel wants, she said September that she looks at life as one big adventure. Whelchel later Tweeted her thanks to well-wishers, adding that she's "expecting a full recovery."

Elizabeth Banks Welcomes Son Magnus Mitchell

The actress, 38, and husband Max Handelman recently welcomed their second son, Magnus Mitchell Handelman, Banks announced on her website Wednesday. He joins big brother Felix, 20 months, at home. “Like Felix, Magnus was born via gestational surrogate. This experience has exceeded all expectations, taught us a great deal about generosity and gratitude, and established a relationship that will last a lifetime,” adds Banks. “I am also so very thankful to our family and friends for their support throughout this process, as well as the Center for Surrogate Parenting for helping make all this possible.” The actress, who also had a recurring role on 30 Rock, has been open about her fertility struggle. “It was a womb issue for me. Embryos wouldn’t implant,” she explained earlier this year.
  One day after former Seattle Seahawks tight end Jerramy Stevens was arrested on suspicion of assaulting his fiancée, U.S. women's soccer team goalkeeper Hope Solo, the pair tied the knot. "Confirmed," Sportsradio 950 AM and 102.9 FM radio host Dave Mahler Tweeted on Tuesday. "Jerramy Stevens and Hope Solo were married tonight. Events of yesterday morning didn't change plans." The pair, who had only been dating for about two months, applied for a marriage license last Thursday. According to court documents, the athletes were arguing over whether to wed in Florida or Washington State. Stevens, 33, was reportedly released from custody by a Kirkland, Wash., Municipal Court judge on Tuesday after determining there wasn't enough evidence to hold the former football star. All of the former Dancing with the Stars contestant's social media pages have gone silent since Nov. 6., and calls to her rep have not been returned.

Billy Joel and Rihanna fight Pandora for fair compensation

Billy Joel, Rihanna, and Missy Elliott have joined a list of 125 musicians in signing an open letter to Pandora Media in an effort to protect their compensation. The artists say the "internet Fairness Act," which is before congress and is being lobbied for by Pandora, would slash their profits from internet radio play by 85%. In the letter, which is set to be published in Billboard magazine, the question is posed, "Why is the company asking Congress once again to step in and gut the royalties that thousands of musicians rely upon?"With the current royalties structure, Pandora must pay more per song as their listenership grows. The company's current rate is set until 2015, but Pandora complains providers in other mediums -- such as satellite and cable -- pay different royalty rates."The current law penalizes new media and is astonishingly unfair to Internet radio," says a statement on Pandora's website. The company seeks to add some perspective by explaining, "For over two thousand artists Pandora will pay over $10,000 dollars each over the next 12 months ... and for more than 800 we'll pay over $50,000, more than the income of the average American household."
George Lucas shocked the entertainment world with the announcement of a $4.05 billion deal that would give Lucasfilm –including Luke Skywalker’s home galaxy– to the Walt Disney Company. The news flash represented far more than the latest checkbook chapter in this Disney empire-building era (Pixar, Marvel and the Muppets are already part of the corporate universe) or a colossal moment in the philanthropic world (Lucas will donate most of the money to charity); the Star Wars saga will strike back in 2015 with the opening   installment of a new live-action trilogy as the new team–with Jurassic Park and Lincoln producer Kathleen Kennedy Lucasfilm’s president– tries to make magic for Disney shareholders.
 Plus-size model Anansa Sims welcomed a baby boy named David Bernard Patterson III with husband David Patterson on Nov. 6. The daughter of former supermodel Beverly Johnson and her former NFL-er husband are already parents to 16-month-old daughter Ava Brielle. Baby David was born at San Antonio Community Hospital in Upland, Calif. He weighed in at 8lbs, 13 oz and is 22 inches long.

 

The Amazing Spider-Man 2
First up, Dane DeHaan ("Chronicle"), Brady Corbet ("Melancholia") and Alden Ehrenreich ("Beautiful Creatures") will all try out for the role of Harry Osborn in the upcoming "The Amazing Spider-Man" sequel which shoots in February. Originally created for an athletic and bulkier actor, the part is now being reshaped with a "dark and edgy thespian" in mind.


10 Things I Hate About Life
Evan Rachel Wood ("The Ides of March," "True Blood") has scored the female lead in Gil Junger's Los Angeles-set rom-com "10 Things I Hate About Life". The story follows a young man and woman who meet while each is attempting to commit suicide, and they find in each other some great reasons to keep on living.


TV NEWS
This latest piece of Once Upon a Time casting gives new meaning to the phrase “adding a limb to the family tree.” ABC drama has cast Chad Michael Collins as Gerhardt, a younger brother of David Anders’ Dr. Whale.


In an upcoming episode of CBS’ Hawaii Five-0, Willis has been cast as a potential love interest for the lovably dorky Dr. Max Bergman (Masi Oka). She’ll play Sabrina, a cute young bank teller interested in a date with Bergman, but then her bank is held up in a botched robbery. Bruce Willis’ daughter previous had an recurring role a couple years ago on The CW’s 90210 and had guest-star stints on CBS’ CSI: NY and ABC Family’s The Secret Life of the American Teenager.


Tonight's Special:Univision: The 13th Annual Latin Grammy Awards (Live) at 8p
Tonight's Premieres:Travel Channel: Mysteries at the Museum at 9p
Discovery Channel: Ghost Town Gold at 10p

 Tamera Mowry-Housley delivered a son, Aden John Tanner Housley, on Monday, Nov. 12 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. This is the first child for the Tia & Tamera star, 34, and her husband, FOX News correspondent correspondent Adam Housley. Arriving two weeks after his due date of Oct. 30, Aden was born at 9:45 p.m., weighing in at 9 lbs., 5 oz. and is 21.5 inches long. She and Housley, 40, wed in May 2011 in Napa Valley.

Man who accused Elmo puppeteer of teen sex recants

A man who accused Elmo puppeteer Kevin Clash of having sex with him when he was a teenage boy has recanted his story. In a quick turnabout, the man on Tuesday described his sexual relationship with Clash as adult and consensual. Clash responded with a statement of his own, saying he is "relieved that this painful allegation has been put to rest." He had no further comment.  The man, who has not identified himself, released his statement through the Harrisburg, Pa., law firm Andreozzi & Associates. Sesame Workshop, which produces "Sesame Street" in New York, soon followed by saying, "We are happy that Kevin can move on from this unfortunate episode." The whirlwind episode began Monday morning, when Sesame Workshop startled the world by announcing that Clash had taken a leave of absence from "Sesame Street" in the wake of allegations that he had had a relationship with a 16-year-old. Clash, a 52-year-old divorced father of a grown daughter, swiftly denied the charges of his accuser, who is in his early 20s. In that statement, Clash acknowledged that he is gay but said the relationship had been between two consenting adults. Though it remained unclear where the relationship took place, sex with a person under 17 is a felony in New York if the perpetrator is at least 21. Sesame Workshop, which said it was first contacted by the accuser in June, had launched an investigation that included meeting with the accuser twice and meeting with Clash. Its investigation found the charge of underage conduct to be unsubstantiated. Clash said on Monday he would take a break from Sesame Workshop "to deal with this false and defamatory allegation." Neither Clash nor Sesame Workshop indicated on Tuesday when he might return to the show, on which he has performed as Elmo since 1984. Elmo had previously been a marginal character, but Clash, supplying the fuzzy red puppet with a high-pitched voice and a carefree, child-like personality, launched the character into major stardom. Elmo soon rivaled Big Bird as the face of "Sesame Street." Though usually behind the scenes, Clash meanwhile achieved his own measure of fame. In 2006, he published an autobiography, "My Life as a Furry Red Monster," and he was the subject of the 2011 documentary "Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey." He has won 23 daytime Emmy awards and one prime-time Emmy.
 He may have bared (almost) all of that incredibly chiseled body in this year's Magic Mike but 2012's Sexiest Man Alive Channing Tatum was still modest when he heard the news. "My first thought was, 'Y'all are messing with me,'" says Tatum, who married actress Jenna Dewan-Tatum in 2009. "I told Jenna after we'd been in the bathtub washing our dogs because they'd gotten skunked." Says the actor: "She was like, 'What?'" "Yeah, she calls me [the Sexiest Man Alive] now," he adds. And who can blame her? Her Alabama-bred heartthrob of a husband is also a sculptor who quotes Edgar Allan Poe, loves to give her massages and can't wait to start their family. "I'm ready; I think she's ready," Tatum, 32, says. "The first number that pops into my head is three, but I just want one to be healthy and then we'll see where we go after that." "It’s really easy for us guys to say, 'I want like 15 kids,'" he continues. "Jenna will be like, 'Well you better get another wife!'" Currently training to play an Olympic athlete in next year's Foxcatcher, Tatum is all heart and muscle at 195 pounds. "I like to be lean. If I get too bulky I can't move well and I like to move," he says. "When I'm not training, I get really round and soft."

Stevens released in assault case

Former Seahawks tight end Jerramy Stevens was arrested on suspicion of assaulting U.S. women's soccer team goalkeeper Hope Solo a day before their planned wedding day, according to police and court records. A Kirkland Municipal Court judge released Stevens after a court appearance Tuesday, saying there was no evidence connecting Stevens to any assault, according to news reports. He was arrested early Monday for fourth-degree domestic violence assault but has not been charged. The judge determined there was not enough to hold Stevens, but the case is still under investigation, Kirkland Police Lt. Mike Murray said Tuesday. Charges could be brought later if prosecutors and police find other evidence, he said. Stevens, 33, and Solo, 31, applied for a marriage license Thursday. The two, who have been in a relationship for two months, were set to get married Tuesday and argued over whether to live in Washington or Florida after their marriage, according to court documents. Stevens was selected with the No. 28 pick of the 2002 draft by the Seahawks after a stellar career on the field at Washington. But he also was involved in incidents away from football that included reckless driving charges for crashing into a nursing home.

Konsa accused of cocaine dealing

An Estonian international footballer who plays at one of the top clubs in his country has been arrested on suspicion of cocaine dealing. Prosecutors say they have initiated criminal proceedings against 27-year-old Oliver Konsa, who plays for Estonian league champion JK Nomme Kalju and has made 20 appearances for the national team. Kristel Praun, a spokeswoman for the state prosecutor's office, says Konsa and several other individuals are suspected of distributing ''large amounts'' of cocaine. The Tallinn club said Tuesday that it has suspended Konsa pending an investigation. Konsa joined the club in 2010. Konsa's defense lawyer failed to immediately return calls seeking comment.


More of the Sexiest Men in this Week's People:

Janeane Garofalo: I didn't know I was married

Sometimes what happens in Vegas actually does stay in Vegas -- at least for two decades. Funny girl Janeane Garofalo is claiming she's been married for 20 years, and didn't even know it! The "Reality Bites" actress told the New York Post that she and "Big Bang Theory" producer Rob Cohen decided to wed at a Las Vegas drive-thru chapel but never thought it would stick. "Rob and I got married, for real, which we had to have a notary dissolve not 30 minutes before we got here tonight," Garofalo said at the New York Comedy Festival reunion for "The Ben Stiller Show." "We were married for 20 years until this evening." Garofalo, 48, further explained, "We got married drunk in Vegas. ... We dated for a year, and we got married at a drive-through chapel in a cab. [We thought], 'You have to go down to the courthouse and sign papers and stuff.' So, who knew? We were married, and apparently now that [Rob] is getting married for real, his lawyer dug up something." Cohen, 63, joked, "I'm gonna get all of that 'Reality Bites' money!"

TV NEWS
 CBS has found its Axel Foley, Jr! Comedian Brandon T. Jackson — best known for his role in Tropic Thunder — will play Aaron Foley in Beverly Hills Cop, a sequel in development for fall 2013. The pilot, which will represent a new chapter from the 1984 blockbuster that starred Eddie Murphy. “A continuation of the iconic Beverly Hills Cop universe as Axel Foley’s blue-collar police officer son, Aaron, helps take down the criminal elements of the rich and famous, while simultaneously trying to escape the shadow of his larger than life father.” Murphy will appear in the pilot and may recur if the drama goes to series. He’ll also exec produce.


Kyle MacLachlan, who appeared in the short-lived CBS drama Made in Jersey this season, has been booked for several episodes of The Good Wife. Details on his role are a bit sketchy for now, but his character will interact with Eli Gold (Alan Cumming).


Dylan Walsh is coming to ABC’s Revenge. The handsome former star of FX’s long-running Nip/Tuck has landed a multi-episode arc on the devious fan favorite drama. Walsh will appear later this season as “Jason Prosser,” a rival hedge fund manager to Conrad Grayson (Henry Czerny). Prosser is said to match Grayson’s wealth and have twice his style.


So You Think You Can Dance Season 5 champ Jeanine Mason and newcomer Niko Pepaj have joined ABC Family’s Bunheads as a close-knit sister-brother duo.


Tonight's Premieres:NBC: Whitney at 8p
Travel Channel: Baggage Battles at 8p & 830p
National Geographic Channel: Border Wars at 9p; Hell on the Highway at 10p
Tonight's Finales:Investigation Discovery: Who the (Bleep) Did I Marry? at 9p
Military Channel: Black Ops at 10p
DIY Network: Run My Renovation at 1030p

Give this lady a read, I think you will enjoy it:

http://justlishadawn.blogspot.com/

John McAfee, Anti-Virus Software Creator, Wanted for Murder

John McAfee, the high-tech pioneer whose anti-virus security software is installed on countless computers around the world, is on the lam from police in Belize who are investigating the murder of his neighbor. The 67-year-old multimillionaire is a prime suspect in the Nov. 10 killing of Gregory Faull, says Vienne Robinson, assistant superintendent of the Belize's San Pedro police department. "We are looking for him in connection with the murder," says Robinson, who adds that another suspect is currently in custody – although no charges have been filed yet. Faull, who had recently filed a police complaint against McAfee for discharging firearms, was discovered by a housekeeper. McAfee, whose former company was purchased by Intel in 2010 for nearly $7.7 billion, moved to Belize in 2009, intending to launch a company that manufactured herbal antibiotics from jungle plants. He told The New York Times in 2008 that he had lost all but $4 million of his $100 million fortune in the U.S. financial crisis and that he was moving to Belize. Last April, Belize police raided McAfee's home looking for drugs and guns. McAfee said officers found guns, which he said were legal, and he was released without charge after being detained for a few hours. In recent years, however, his strange behavior had alienated him from neighbors and others in the American expat community in the Central American country. McAfee has spoken to Wired magazine to deny he had any involvement in the death. When asked whether he knows anything about the case, he replied, "Nothing - other than I heard he had been shot. I thought maybe they (whoever killed him) were coming for me. They mistook him for me. They got the wrong house. He's dead. They killed him. It spooked me out."


Jesse Jackson Jr hires lawyer, possible plea deal, resignation
Amid reports that he may have misused campaign funds, Illinois congressman Jesse Jackson Jr has hired a lawyer to handle negotiations with the federal government on possible plea deal in which he would resign from the House of Representatives and spend time in prison. Jackson hired Dan Webb, a former U.S. attorney in Chicago who represents defendants in high-profile corruption cases to represent the 47-year-old lawmaker. Last week, the Chicago Sun-Times reported that Jackson was under investigation for allegedly misusing campaign funds to decorate his home and to buy a $40,000 Rolex watch for a female friend. Jackson, the son of civil rights activist and former presidential candidate Jesse Jackson, was treated for at least six weeks at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, this summer for bipolar disorder, a psychological condition marked by extreme mood swings. He has been on medical leave from the House since June and has not been seen in public.In addition to his health issues, Jackson has been the subject of a House ethics committee probe over an alleged bribe offered by a Jackson supporter in 2008 to then Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.The bribe was said to be intended to entice Blagojevich to appoint Jackson to the Senate seat vacated by President Barack Obama. Jackson has admitted to lobbying for the seat, but denied knowing about any money offered to Blagojevich, who has since been convicted on corruption charges and imprisoned. Both reports said Jackson, who was easily re-elected to Congress on November 6, may have to resign his seat and serve time in prison under terms of the deal being negotiated. Webb and a spokesman for Jackson did not immediately respond to requests for comment.


Modern Family Wanted Ariel's Mom Banned from Set

Ariel Winter's mom was an abusive menace on the set of "Modern Family" ... so much so, producers wanted her BANNED from set. Chrystal Workman (Ariel's mom) was "hated" by the crew, producers, actors and other mothers ... because she made Ariel's life a living Hell. Chrystal would sit on set and watch Ariel like a hawk -- and then berate her for her for her physical appearance, saying her ears were too big and she looked ugly in her clothes. She also blocked Ariel from eating anything but egg whites and raw veggies. The mom's obsession with Ariel's diet was so extreme ... crew members contrived a plan to "sneak" the 14-year-old food (like grilled cheese sandwiches) when her mom wasn't looking. Chrystal was very vocal about Ariel's money -- claiming her daughter needed to rake in more cash to pay for their house, her agents, managers, and publicists. The source adds, "I'm so happy for Ariel that she went to the extreme and got out from under that miserable woman's care."

Clash Emailed About Sex with Accuser

Kevin Clash -- the man who voices Elmo -- had an email exchange with his accuser in 2010 in which he apologized for constantly talking about sex ... and promised to make all of his "dreams come true."  Clash was disciplined by Sesame for sending a personal email from his Sesame Street email account. The email was sent to a man who now claims he had a sexual relationship with Clash when he was 16 and Clash was 45. In the email -- sent well after the accuser turned 18 -- Clash writes, "I'm sorry that I keep talking about sex with you, its driving me insane." He adds, "I want you to know that I love you and I will never hurt you. I'm here to protect you and make sure your dreams come true." Clash continued, "I'll have my assistant book a ticket for you to come to NY and we can talk about this in person."

Clash has acknowledged having a sexual relationship with the accuser but insists it only took place AFTER the accuser was an adult. Clash has since taken a leave of absence from Sesame Street and says he will focus on fighting the allegations.

 

Gordon fined $100K, docked 25 points

Four-time NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon avoided suspension Monday when NASCAR instead fined him $100,000 and docked him 25 points for intentionally wrecking Clint Bowyer at Phoenix International Raceway. Gordon also was placed on probation through Dec. 31. But he'll be allowed to close out the season at Homestead-Miami Speedway despite his actions in Sunday's race, which triggered a fight in the garage area between the two drivers' crews.''I take responsibility for my actions on the racetrack,'' Gordon said in a statement. ''I accept NASCAR's decision and look forward to ending the season on a high note at Homestead.'' The penalty drops Gordon to 11th in the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship with one race remaining. He's now four points behind Martin Truex Jr. for 10th, and only the top-10 drivers have formal roles in the season-ending awards ceremony in Las Vegas. Rick Hendrick also was docked 25 car owner points, and crew chief Alan Gustafson was placed on probation through the end of the year. ''I've always respected Jeff for standing his ground,'' said Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. ''We also respect that NASCAR needs to police the sport and send a message when situations like this occur. It's been a great year, and we're going to put our focus on finishing in a positive way this weekend.'' Gordon intentionally slowed his car and waited for Bowyer on the track Sunday to wreck him on what was scheduled to be the final lap. There had been contact between the two a few laps earlier, and Gordon viewed it as the final straw in an apparently escalating on-track feud with Bowyer. He said after the incident he was ''fed up'' with Bowyer and had to take a stand Sunday, and would wait to see how NASCAR responded. ''It's the double standard that I spent a whole week being bashed by a half-dozen drivers about racing hard at Texas and how I'm out of control and have a death wish,'' he said. ''These guys just tried to kill each other ... they should be ashamed. It's embarrassing.''

 Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart are back together – as a couple and now on the red carpet. On Monday night, they attended their first public Hollywood event together since the cheating scandal that rocked their relationship in July. The occasion, of course, was the Los Angeles premiere of The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2. Stewart, 22, and Pattinson, 26 – who split after she had a tryst with her Snow White and the Huntsman director Rupert Sanders, but later reconciled – walked the carpet amid cheers from throngs of fans at the Nokia Theater L.A. LIVE.

JoAnna Garcia expecting first child with Nick Swisher

JoAnna Garcia and Nick Swisher are starting a family! "So happy to finally be able to share our news!" Garcia tweeted Nov. 12. "Nick and I are expecting our first baby in 2013! Feeling so blessed and beyond excited!"  The couple elaborated on their happy news via Swisher's Facebook page. "Words can't describe how blessed we feel to be expanding our family and are anxiously awaiting the arrival of our new addition," they wrote. "Your support and kindness has meant so much to us throughout the years and we wanted to personally share the news with you all."  Garcia, 33, and Swisher, 31, tied the knot in December 2010 after a seven-month engagement. The star-studded wedding party included Reba McEntire, Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Lance Bass.  Garcia's notable TV credits include "Reba," "Privileged," "Gossip Girl," "Better With You," "Are You Afraid of the Dark?" and "Freaks and Geeks." Until recently, Swisher was the right fielder and first baseman for the New York Yankees; he is currently a free agent after declining a $13.3 million one-year qualifying offer from the team.

Katt Williams Facing $5 Million Lawsuit For Allegedly Punching Female Assistant

Katt Williams is still getting it poppin.' We've heard about the Midwest comedian fighting, flipping the f-ck out on a crowd, and getting into it with Faizon Love, but his latest rift could cost him $5 million. Williams is accused of punching his female assistant, leaving her with lasting ailments. Melissa Ishage filed a suit with the L.A. County Superior Court alleging to have worked as the father of seven's personal assistant, before an altercation on Oct. 6, left her injured. According to the former employee's attorney, she was punched in the head, knocking her to the ground, and causing "serious and permanent injuries." After the run-in, Ishtage went to the hospital. While she does not explain what led to Williams flipping out, police were called to the location, but no one was taken into custody. Authorities are still investigating the incident.

 Former "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" star Gary Dourdan has filed for bankruptcy. The actor's financial issues first surfaced in 2010 when he was sued over a credit card debt, and he has continued to struggle with money woes ever since, most recently facing a court battle to stop the foreclosure of his Venice, Calif., home over the summer. He filed an injunction on 30 August (12) to prevent bank bosses at Wells Fargo from putting the property up for auction to help pay off his mortgage debts, accusing them of failing to offer him a relief plan, and it has now emerged that Dourdan also lodged papers declaring bankruptcy on the same day. Dourdan claims he has just over $1.8 million in assets, but owes various creditors a total of $1.73 million, with the majority of bills owed to banks. Among his possessions are a 2006 Dodge Charger worth $7,000, $4,000 in furniture, $1,500 in clothes, and $500 in watches. He also states that he earns an average of $14,883 a month, but his bills leave him with just $321 in disposable income. However, Dourdan, 45, is predicting a more promising future and "anticipates major acting roles", which he hopes will help settle his debts. The actor has not landed a significant film or TV job since his "CSI" analyst character Warrick Brown was killed off in the season nine premiere in 2008.

Barbara Walters has 'a few things to say' about Lindsay Lohan

Barbara Walters finally opened up about Lindsay Lohan on "The View" this morning, for the first time since the "Liz & Dick" star bailed on their arranged interview. "I have a few things to say about Lindsay Lohan," Walters began. "I like Lindsay Lohan very much. I've known her for years. She said whenever she did an interview, she'd do it with me." In fact, Walters revealed they'd even filmed part one of the interview, on the set of "Liz & Dick," earlier this year. Walters and Lohan were due to sit down for the second part of their interview last week, which is when the newswoman was informed by Lohan's new reps that the interview was canceled. "Lindsay doesn't feel up to it," was the reason Barbara says Lohan's new reps gave her for calling off the interview. "The punch line is," Walters continued, "Lindsay Lohan is sitting for an interview with Jay Leno." And that was an unforgivable offense in the panel's eyes. Whoopi Goldberg posited that Lindsay Lohan's new team decided she was not ready (or, perhaps, capable) of handling the kinds of in-depth questions Walters is celebrated for asking. "I couldn't agree with you more," Walters replied. "If they'd said to me, 'You know, Barbara, she's not ready for the kind of questions you might ask.' If they had told me that, I would not feel quite as disappointed as I do today. I wish I could have had a more honest explanation." Walters also believes the person who will be hurt the most by this is Lohan herself. "I think to go on Jay Leno and be adorable and amusing, there's still all the problems," Walters said. "It would have been a wonderful interview. She could have set a lot of things straight. I think [my interview] could have helped her." "Liz & Dick" is set to air on Lifetime Nov. 25, and Lohan is expected to sit down with Jay Leno on the Nov. 20 edition of "The Tonight Show."

TV NEWS
 Entertainment Tonight" has chosen former CNN reporter Rob Marciano as its new co-anchor. Marciano will take his place alongside co-host Nancy O'Dell in January. Marciano, who covered news and weather for CNN, called his new show "the gold standard in entertainment journalism" in a statement announcing the move. "I am honored to be joining the distinguished and talented team at 'Entertainment Tonight,' all of whom are the gold standard in entertainment journalism," he said. "For over 30 years, ET has been a powerhouse in the entertainment industry and to be part of that blue chip franchise is a dream come true." Marciano, who had been a news and weather anchor for CNN News Group since 2003, previously had stints as chief meteorologist at Portland, Oregon station KATU-TV and KPLC-TV in Lake Charles, Louisiana. His reports on Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill for CNN earned a Peabody Award.


Hawaii Five-0 has paid homage to the original series several times in its first few seasons, but the show is about to make what is arguably its biggest nod yet. The CBS drama will soon start production on an updated version of “Hookman,” an episode of the original series that was first aired almost four decades ago and won an Emmy in 1974 for Best Music Composition. Peter Weller (RoboCop) is set direct the episode and guest star as the title villain, taking over the role originally played by double amputee Jay J. Armes.


Nashville fans have a reason to cheer. ABC has just ordered a full season of the freshman country series. The Connie Britton and Hayden Panettiere drama has received a pickup for nine more hours. The Wednesday-night series joins ABC’s freshman aliens-next-door comedy The Neighbors in getting an extension into spring, and returning drama Scandal receiving a full ride. ABC also ordered three more scripts each for Friday comedies Malibu Country and Last Man Standing, which have performed solidly in their 8 p.m. block the past couple weeks.


Today's Premieres:Animal Planet: Frontier Earth at 8p
HISTORY: Mankind The Story of All of Us at 9p
National Geographic Channel: Doomsday Preppers at 9p & 10p
TLC: Little People Big World: Wedding Farm at 9p; Extreme Couponing at 10p & 1030p
truTV: Hardcore Pawn at 9p
Bravo: Million Dollar Decorators at 10p