Inglourious Basterds Commences Principal Photography [ComingSoon]

Source: Vulture | 14 Oct 2008 | 9:15 pm

Charlotte Ronson Lands Hair Campaign

Charlotte Ronson
Photo: Getty Images

Charlotte Ronson sure is diversifying. Sebastian hair care just cast her as its new face. And only last week we learned that she signed on to do a collection for JCPenney. With a diffusion line and ad campaign under her belt, now all she needs is a $1,500 teddy bear made in her likeness. [Nylon]

Source: The Cut | 14 Oct 2008 | 9:13 pm

John Adams' `Doctor Atomic' opens at Met Opera (AP)

AP - A-bomb is a hit at the Metropolitan Opera.

Source: Yahoo! News: Entertainment Reviews | 14 Oct 2008 | 9:02 pm

Cannavale, Wiig, Schwimmer, Falco and Crudup Will Be Part of LAB's "Celebrity Charades" (Playbill)

Playbill - Bobby Cannavale, Kristen Wiig, David Schwimmer, Edie Falco and Billy Crudup have joined the roster of artists who will take part in the LAByrinth Theater Company's "Celebrity Charades: We Will Rock You" benefit on Oct. 20.
Source: Yahoo! News: Entertainment News | 14 Oct 2008 | 9:02 pm

One Reason Why the Third Debate Won’t Suck

Photo: Getty/AP

For those who watch the presidential debates hoping not so much for more tired discussions on the fate of our economy, but for FIREWORKS, tomorrow's final installment at Hofstra University should be a treat. We know, we know. Every debate so far has been preceded by expectations that John McCain would deliver some kind of game-changing moment to catapult him back into contention as time ticks off the clock. But this time, McCain and Barack Obama are heightening the suspense themselves. After Obama and Biden both practically taunted McCain for not having the balls to bring up former domestic terrorist William Ayers in person at the town-hall debate, McCain told a St. Louis radio station today that "he's probably ensured that it will come up this time." Ooohh snap. It's on now.

One has to wonder, though, whether McCain is walking right into a trap. After all, the Obama campaign had to know that mocking McCain's guts would almost certainly result in the honor-obsessed veteran accepting the Ayers challenge. What kind of mind-blowing comeback Obama may have in store, we don't know, but then again, maybe he doesn't need one. If those annoying dial read-outs from undecided voters watching the debates have taught us anything, it's that candidates lose when they go negative, and nothing screams negativity like accusing the potential future president of befriending terrorists.

Source: Daily Intel | 14 Oct 2008 | 9:00 pm

Beach Bunny Swimwear: Ready for the Yacht (Fashion Wire Daily)

Fashion Wire Daily - Let's face it, when it comes to actually swimming, Beach Bunny Swimwear and designer Angela Chittenden really don't expect women to get into the water and get wet while wearing their bathing suits. But that said, the 60 looks that came down the runway at the Mercedes-Benz Los Angeles Fashion Week show on Monday were cute and sexy, and perfect for lounging on the yacht or slinking around the pool in Las Vegas.

Source: Yahoo! News: Entertainment News | 14 Oct 2008 | 8:48 pm

Beach Bunny Swimwear: Ready for the Yacht (Fashion Wire Daily)

Fashion Wire Daily - Let's face it, when it comes to actually swimming, Beach Bunny Swimwear and designer Angela Chittenden really don't expect women to get into the water and get wet while wearing their bathing suits. But that said, the 60 looks that came down the runway at the Mercedes-Benz Los Angeles Fashion Week show on Monday were cute and sexy, and perfect for lounging on the yacht or slinking around the pool in Las Vegas.

Source: Yahoo! News: Fashion News | 14 Oct 2008 | 8:48 pm

Music Review: Nikka Costa's CD is refreshing (AP)

AP - Nikka Costa, "Pebble to a Pearl" (Stax Records)

Source: Yahoo! News: Entertainment Reviews | 14 Oct 2008 | 8:46 pm

Penn Badgley’s Beauty Regimen; Waterproof Mascara Advice

Penn Badgley: the face of age defiance.
Photo: Getty Images

SKIN
• Gossip Girl star Penn Badgley reportedly likes Pevonia Botanica's Ligne Homme line, especially the Age-Defying Caviar Balm. He is maintaining that high-school look rather well. [ElleGirl via Teenage.Me]

• Skin-care brand L’Occitane en Provence was honored by the American Foundation for the Blind because they've been imprinting their packaging with Braille since 1997. Now you know. [WWD]

HAIR
• Vitamin Shampoo came out with posters knocking off VitaminWater. And now there's a vitamin showdown in the works! Rest easy: Lawyers are on the case. [Fashionista]

MAKEUP
• Leslie Blodgett, founder of Bare Escentuals, suggests you only wear waterproof mascara if you're "extremely greasy." And you should always take off your mascara; otherwise your eyelashes might crunch up and fall out while you sleep. [BellaSugar]

FRAGRANCE
• Takashimaya has its own fragrance now, as perfumer Neil Morris developed a custom scent that combines "the serenity of Japanese culture … with the stylish sophistication of Fifth Avenue." A two-ounce bottle is $125. Yes, very Fifth Avenue. [WWD]

Source: The Cut | 14 Oct 2008 | 8:32 pm

'Hot Wheels' spins new series for '09

Front Page: Nelvana, Mattel team on cartoon show -- Cartoon Network has picked up an animated series based on Mattel’s "Hot Wheels" property, slated to begin airing Saturday mornings next year.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 14 Oct 2008 | 8:23 pm

Photographer Florian Bohm’s Work Is Totally Pedestrian

Florian Bohm's Broadway/34th Street (2005)
Photo: Courtesy of Cohen Amador Gallery

Florian Bohm, German photographer that he is, imposes order on hectic city life. His window-size photos of New Yorkers waiting for the light to turn green are on view at Cohen Amador through October 18. Have you ever seen so many New Yorkers staring into space? One more question: Where are all the iPods? Was 2005 really so long ago?

Source: Vulture | 14 Oct 2008 | 8:15 pm

Alexis Glick Goes to Bed at 8:30

Name: Alexis Glick
Age: 36
Occupation: Vice-president of business news and anchor for Fox Business Network. Darling, chipper host of Money for Breakfast and Opening Bell on Fox Business Network.
Neighborhood: Gramercy Park/Flatiron

Who's your favorite New Yorker, living or dead, real or fictional?
My three sons: Logan, Kyle, and Slate.

What's the best meal you've eaten in New York?
Il Cantinori on 10th Street in the Village. They make the best pasta and the most outrageous veal bolognese. It's intimate, quiet, and elegant. Great memories. Say hi to Frank. He runs the show.

In one sentence, what do you actually do all day in your job?
Anchor two shows, report the news on the economy and politics, make calls to executives and sources, meet business contacts, and write a blog.

Would you still live here on a $35,000 salary?
Yes. This is my hometown.

What's the last thing you saw on Broadway?
Jersey Boys, I think. It's hard to remember. I'm in bed by the time the curtain goes up on Broadway.

Do you give money to panhandlers?
Sometimes.

What's your drink?
A great glass of wine. In the summer a Chardonnay. In the winter a GREAT Cabernet. If the moment looks right, a Tanqueray and tonic with lime.

How often do you prepare your own meals?
Never. My husband is the cook when we have time. I am great at memorizing the phone numbers to the local diners. My boys know when the buzzer rings that food is on the way. It's not how I would like it to be, but it's better than burnt toast.

What's your favorite medication?
See Tanqueray and tonic above.

What's hanging above your sofa?
Greg Miller paintings of old Hollywood scenes or scenes from the Vegas strip in the fifties and sixties. They're sexy, bold, and take us back to an era when things were much simpler.

How much is too much to spend on a haircut?
$150 to $200 for mom. For the rest of the family, $15 at the barbershop. It pays to be the only woman in the house!

When's bedtime?
During the week, bedtime is anywhere from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. because I go to work at 4 a.m. On the weekends, more like 11ish, but it's hard because my boys wake up at 6:30 a.m. every day.

Which do you prefer, the old Times Square or the new Times Square?
The new Times Square.

What do you think of Donald Trump?
He's an entrepreneur who loves this city. He lives large, loves large, and isn't afraid to wear his passion on his sleeves.

What do you hate most about living in New York?
The hustle and bustle. You are always rushing from one place to another. There is not enough time to stop and enjoy what is around you.

Who is your mortal enemy?
It's not who but what. My daily cravings for chocolate. I cannot let a day pass without Raisinettes, Milk Duds, or nonpareils, especially at the movies.

When's the last time you drove a car?
This weekend at the beach. We have a beach house in Watermill that we go to every weekend.

Who should be the next president?
The person that is going to help steer this country out of a recession, bring back U.S. pride, and re-create the nostalgia that is America. A person who stands up, listens to the people, leads by example, and creates change.

Times, Post, or Daily News?
The Post.

Where do you go to be alone?
The movies.

What makes someone a New Yorker?
New Yorkers are color-blind. They embrace and take great pride in New York City's diverse culture, ethnicity, and religious backgrounds. New Yorkers are passionate — passionate about politics, about education, about health, about great food, great wine, about pursuing the American Dream. New Yorkers live every day as though it were their last. They leave nothing on the table. No regrets. No second-guessing.

Source: Daily Intel | 14 Oct 2008 | 8:15 pm

Now Open: Den’s Shipley & Halmos Pop-up Shop

Photo: Courtesy of Den

The Shipley & Halmos pop-up shop opens at Den in the East Village today. The label doesn't have a stand-alone store so consider this your one-stop shop for all your Shipley & Halmos needs for ladies and gents this winter. And you'll want a piece — their shift dresses and skinny pants are divine. The minimalist décor is inspired by the 1920 German Expressionist silent film The Cabinet of D. Caligari, which is also reflective of their fall 2008 collection. The installation even includes a video of Shipley & Halmos' animated short and runs through the end of November. See more of the new pop-up in the slideshow.

Den, 330 E. 11th St., nr. Second Ave.; 212-475-0079

Source: The Cut | 14 Oct 2008 | 7:52 pm

Eddy Curry’s Season Starts Off With a Bang

Photo: Getty Images

Eddy Curry can't seem to catch a break. After showing up to training camp overweight — for Curry, an annual event as dependable as the autumnal equinox — the Knicks center was hospitalized for a week by a bacterial infection, his disposition surely brightened by new coach Mike D'Antoni's quip that "throwing up is a good way to lose weight." Things didn't get any better when Curry finally arrived at practice yesterday: as he sat down on one of those giant, high-strength blue exercise balls, it promptly exploded. And as if his scraped elbow and bruised ego weren't enough, D'Antoni has apparently settled on his starting lineup, and Curry isn't in it. Instead, he'll be battling Malik Rose for the ninth spot in the rotation, and until he summons a faster, svelter version of himself, that's likely where he'll stay in D'Antoni's up-tempo offense. Like that rubber exercise ball, any hopes of Curry improving on last year's dismal season may have already burst.

D'ANTONI AT HOME IN GARDEN [NYP]
Little Room for Sentiment, or Legacies, on Knicks [NYT]

Source: Daily Intel | 14 Oct 2008 | 7:45 pm

Notoriously Hard-to-Please Mafia Wants Italian Author Dead by Christmas

Photo: Getty Images

Roberto Saviano, the Italian author of Gomorrah, a hit book exposing the behind-the-scenes machinations of the Camorra (the mob), has been under 24-hour police watch for the past two years. But with the movie version of Gomorrah now also a hit, Saviano is facing more heat than ever — Naples' anti-Mafia squad is investigating a claim that the Camorra plan to have the author and his bodyguards killed by Christmas. It's pretty much as ridiculously cinematic as it sounds: The information came from an informant close to Francesco Schiavone, the imprisoned Camorra godfather known as Sandokan; apparently, the Casalesi sub-clan has moved its assassination plans into the "operative" phase.

Saviano, a journalist, has received extensive media coverage since the publication of Gomorrah, his first book, in 2006, both because of its massive success — it's a bestseller throughout Europe, has been translated into 42 languages, and, along with the film version by the same name (which is Italy's submission for the Oscars this year), has been adapted for the stage — and the constant Mafia threats. Saviano is in semi-hiding and sounds bored to tears: He told a radio show yesterday that "many days are terrible," and that he whiles away time boxing with his bodyguards who sometimes call him "captain." Meanwhile, the author's safety is a national concern in Italy — former Cabinet minister Giovanna Melandri has publicly declared, "Nobody must touch Saviano!" Especially those Casalesi assassins — no touching!

If all of this weren't crazy enough, the actor Bernardino Terracciano, who has a part in the Gomorrah movie, was among seven suspected Mafia affiliates arrested over the weekend. Terracciano, who allegedly has ties to the Casalesi clan, plays mob boss Zi Bernardino in the film; he was turned in by fellow gangster Oreste Spagnuolo. Yikes!

Mafia wants "Gomorra" author dead by Christmas [Reuters]
Actor in mob film Gomorrah arrested - for 'being part of the Mafia' [Daily Mail via Fark]

Source: Vulture | 14 Oct 2008 | 7:30 pm

Death of Rangers Pick Raises Questions

Cherepanov
Photo: Getty Images

The New York Rangers have had their Len Bias moment, and, as in the case of the deceased would-be Boston Celtics star, the death of Rangers first-round pick Alexei Cherepanov is shrouded in mystery — and perhaps involves some negligence.

It has been less than 24 hours since Cherepanov, a 19-year-old forward drafted last year and currently playing for Russian team Avangard Omsk of the Kontinental Hockey League, collapsed after a power-play goal. (Strangely, his linemate was Jaromir Jagr, who was a Ranger just last year and had been tutoring Cherpanov about the previous play when he collapsed.) Early reports were choppy and in Russian, which is why Jagr had been incorrectly reported to have had a “collision” with Cherepanov before the attack. Cherepanov was playing with Avangard Omsk for the summer before joining the NHL next season.

Cherepanov officially died of chronic ischemia, a condition for which he had shown no symptoms. The (disturbing) video of the incident seems to show Cherepanov being carried off the bench without a stretcher. And it’s not clear where he was being carried; the New York Post reports that an ambulance stationed at the rink had left before the game ended. Doctors were able to temporarily revive Cherepanov during the 45-minute wait for the ambulance to return, even though there was no defibrillator on the scene. Jagr said the doctors did their job and that there were no issues — other than the 45-minute wait, of course. A Russian Hockey Federation official, meanwhile, has said there was “negligence” on the part of the emergency responders.

You might be wondering why the Rangers were trusting the care of one of their most prized roster assets — Cherepanov would have been considered a Rookie of the Year candidate next year and was thought of as “special” talent — to a club team in Russia. The relationship between the Rangers and Avangard Omsk is actually a long-lasting one. The AP reports that assistant coach Mike Pelino spent a week in Russia recently and had dinner with the two players. Such arrangements between NHL teams and club teams are not unusual — at least for now.

Source: Daily Intel | 14 Oct 2008 | 7:30 pm

Ringo Starr: I've got to get fans out of my life

Former Beatle Ringo Starr has given his fans a ticket to ride. In a video posted on his Web site, Starr says he will no longer sign fan mail or memorabilia. "I'm warning you with peace and love I have too much to do. So no more fan mail, thank you, thank you, and no objects to be signed. Nothing."

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 7:20 pm

Audrina Heats Up ‘The Hills’

Photo: Courtesy of MTV

Was it naïve to expect that an episode focusing on Audrina’s turbulent love life would be awesome? Yes, yes, it was. Here’s what last night’s episode boiled down to: Talking about Justin Bobby is a lot less entertaining than actually being in his scruffy presence. Even though the entire half-hour was devoted to exploring Audrina’s complicated (and tragically unrequited) feelings for J.B., we only got to see the dude once. We’ll admit, though, that when he finally did appear, he certainly delivered.

The episode begins with Audrina in Lauren's room: “This is so cute, you have pictures everywhere,” says Audrina, who apparently has never seen Lauren’s room, even though they LIVE IN THE SAME HOUSE. Audrina tells her that she spent the weekend with an Australian guy named Cory, and the girls discuss how Audrina should not feel guilty about this, since Justin Bobby hasn’t asked her for a commitment. Audrina on J.B.: “I don’t know, he’s a weird one. I don’t get him.” Lauren: “But that’s why you like him!” No, Lauren, that’s why WE like him. Audrina likes him because she harbors an immature and perverse need to feel bad about herself.

In non-Audrina-related plot developments, Spencer calls a meeting with Stephanie at Karma Coffeehouse (his “home office” is currently occupied by one Holly Montag) to talk about how he wants to kick Holly out of their apartment. He immediately starts shit-talking: “I don’t know who I dislike more, Heidi’s sister or her mom. Her mom came into town and started lighting me up. I was like, settle down, stalker-mom.” Very nice. He somehow manages to throw Stephanie under the bus as well. “I can’t imagine disliking a sister more” — that should make you feel good, Stephanie. And then he just gets funny about Heidi’s letter to L.C. “I didn’t get to read it, or spell-check it.” Ha, good one, Spence! If only he’d use his evil powers for good, we’d be able to solve the financial crisis and achieve world peace, all in one properly spelled two-minute rant. Spencer then continues his trend of relating devastating historical events to the problems of his small, petty life, equating his “war” with the Montags to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Girls, if you’re watching with your grandma, fast-forward through this part! Shudder. Ultimately, Spencer asks Heidi to choose between him and Holly. The end of this predictable plotline is that Heidi does indeed kick her flesh-and-blood out. Holly and her pageant hair look very sad about this turn of events.

Back to Audrina: She goes on a date with Cory, who's wearing his ill-fitting white hat backward and speaking in a slow, Australian drawl. And WOW, has Audrina brought out the cleavage. If it distracts Cory from the fact that she’s totally in love with Justin Bobby (whom she mentions … again!), we guess it’s doing its job. Audrina says that it’s a perfect night to go swimming: clearly code for “I’ll show you what it’s really like Down Under…” The next thing we know, it’s morning and Cory and Audrina are eating Special K. Cory looks relaxed in his cutoff T-shirt (barf) and numerous tattoos. What the heck is Audrina’s deal with guys with tattoos? Cory’s conversational skills rival Audrina’s, we’re sorry to say. Just 'cause you have a hot accent doesn’t mean you’re smart.

Over in Malibu, the gang is partying at Barbie’s Malibu Dream House, or so we’d like to imagine. Lauren is wearing an unfortunate Samantha Ronson–esque fedora (look, so is another guest! And another!), and Whitney’s sunglasses are so big we almost can’t tell that it’s her. Frankie tries to stir up trouble by inviting Justin Bobby to the party while Audrina is cuddling in the pool with Cory. Since when did J.B. become such good friends with these guys? Frankie confronts Audrina about the fact that Brody invited J.B. to Cabo, and Audrina invited Cory, and we can’t keep track because this whole thing is so immature and annoying. Audrina tells Frankie that in Cory, she “found someone who treats [her] good.” Awwwww! Seriously, Audrina’s entire mission in life is the simple task of finding people who “treat her good,” and she just can’t seem to accomplish it. Girl needs a therapist (and an English tutor), stat.

We end with Audrina and Justin Bobby, reunited at the pool at her house. What?? How did that happen? He must have finally returned her calls. He gestures effeminately as he sits down, then has a toothpick in his mouth, and then doesn’t. This scene is so weird — and grandmas, cover your eyes, because it gets increasingly PERVY. J.B. asks Audrina to go in the pool and he’ll watch (he obviously doesn’t want to get the leath-ah jacket wet), but then of course pushes her in before she can get in herself. Oh, Justin Bobby, you don’t disappoint. Then he tells her to take off her top, and of course she does. Big fake-boob alert! J.B. also strips down (to NOTHING) and gets in, and MTV kindly blurs out his butt. He tells her he’s going to get in trouble in Cabo and then laughs loudly and evilly. “It’s on, now. I’m just letting you know, I get to use my hall pass.” We guess he’s saying that since Audrina’s hooking up with the Aussie, he gets to hook up with whomever he wants when they’re all away together. That logic is skewed, of course, but Aud’s too dumb to know it. As a reward for this lovely behavior, Audrina starts to make out with him. And then our DVR cuts out! No! Did something interesting happen after that? Or in scenes from the next? Let us know.

And now, our Unequivocal Hills Reality Index:

As Real As Audrina Is Insecure
• Stephanie and Lauren’s aborted "friendship." Yeah, it’s over … and was never there in the first place.
• Audrina’s striptease. Even J.B. looked surprised that she’d do that on national TV. Audrina, we hope your mother’s not watching!
• Frankie’s weight gain. He looks fat in the face, right?

As Fake As Lauren’s Claim That She Only Wants Audrina to Be Happy
• The whole "Justin’s going to Cabo; no, Cory’s going to Cabo" debacle. Classic MTV-generated drama.
• Holly’s ‘surprise’ at getting kicked out of the apartment.
• Whitney’s interest in The Hills. You can tell she’s counting the minutes till she gets to ditch these losers for New York.

Source: The Cut | 14 Oct 2008 | 7:05 pm

Eisner touts new media at Mipcom

Front Page: Former Disney chief talks up Vuguru in keynote -- Former Disney topper Michael Eisner managed to slip in a promo for skeins from his Internet shingle Vuguru, which produces and distributes content for new media and emerging platforms, during a keynote speech on managing creativity at Mipcom on Tuesday.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 14 Oct 2008 | 6:40 pm

NBC's 'Worst Enemy' off to slow start

Front Page: 'Samantha' slipping despite 'Dancing' lead-in -- NBC’s biggest new hope for fall, the Christian Slater drama "My Own Worst Enemy," opened to mediocre numbers Monday.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 14 Oct 2008 | 6:34 pm

TV on the Radio’s Last Album Born Out of Space Madness, Stimpy-Inspired Soap Fights

Photo: Getty Images

"I'm glad that record exists, but it was kind of like the Ren & Stimpy episode where they get space madness, and they're orbiting the planet, ready to kill each other for a bar of soap." —Tunde Adebimpe on Return to Cookie Mountain [A.V. Club]

"I hope with my records that we reach all different kinds of people. Senior citizens are welcome. Babies can come, too. I like babies, but not in the front row. I don't want to sing directly to a baby." —Jenny Lewis [A.V. Club]

"[Led Zeppelin are] saying: 'We're all rehearsed, we're ready to go, here's a gazillion dollars on the table. If you don't do it, we're going out with this kid. And he can sing the shit out of Zeppelin.'" —Dee Snider on the rumor that Led Zeppelin is considering going on tour without Robert Plant [Guardian]

"We called the song 'Gobbldigob,' which is an Icelandic word for the sound a horse's hooves make. I think you call it 'clippity-clop' in English." —Sigur Rós' Georg Holm on their new song, "Gobbledigook" [Pitchfork]

"We wanted to name it Marry Me, we thought it was hysterical, but then St. Vincent did it. Fuck!" —Marnie Stern, Arrested Development fan [Pitchfork]

Source: Vulture | 14 Oct 2008 | 6:30 pm

Rolling Stone shrinks format

Front Page: Magazine switches to standard size Oct. 30 -- Rolling Stone magazine is reducing its trim size to the industry standard 8 by 11 inches. The new format will debut with the Oct. 30 issue, which will be released this week.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 14 Oct 2008 | 6:21 pm

Colin Callender exits HBO

Front Page: HBO Films head departs after 20-year run -- Signifying another major change at HBO, longtime pay cabler exec Colin Callender is departing after a 21-year run.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 14 Oct 2008 | 6:00 pm

Richard Belzer on His Debut Novel, Hulk Hogan, and Not Being Related to the Fonz

Photo: Getty Images

Actor and comedian Richard Belzer has played Detective Munch — on Law & Order: Special Victim's Unit and Homicide, among other shows — for so many years that he has become nearly indistinguishable from the character. And lest you think the line between television and reality isn't blurry enough, Belzer's new novel, I Am Not a Cop!, is about an actor named Richard Belzer who plays a television cop named "Munch," embroiled in an urban murder mystery. It’s awesomely meta — and he’s already at work on his follow-up book, which involves Marilyn Monroe, Las Vegas, and the mob. Belzer spoke with Vulture about the book, reminisced about getting dropped (in real life) by Hulk Hogan, and gave a conspiracy theorist’s take on the coming election.

So why did you decide to write a novel and cast yourself as the narrator?
The inspiration partly comes from when I was filming Homicide years ago and we were doing a scene in an alleyway and a shoplifter ran around the corner into the middle of the set. He dropped the bag and raised his hands and then he recognized me and said, "Oh shit! It's Munch!" It was the convergence of reality and celebrity. I've always been fascinated by that.

What had he done?
He had stolen Q-tips and a can of film. It was like, how embarrassing? I said, "What's he going to do, photograph himself cleaning his ears?" What kind of crime is that?

In the book, you reference a lot of things that really happened. Like the Hulk Hogan incident.
Yeah. In 1985 I was the host of a talk show Hot Properties on Lifetime. Hulk Hogan was on the show. He put me in a headlock and rendered me unconscious and let me fall to the ground. I split my head open and got nine stitches — and this was on live TV. My wife and I sued and settled out of court a few years later. We then put a down payment on a house in France.

Well, that part's nice! Are you and Hogan on good terms now? Have you worked it out?
He split my head open. I haven't spoken to him in 23 years.

I read that your cousin is the Fonz?
I don't know how that got on the Internet! We look alike, but to my knowledge, we're not related. I should call Henry and do some DNA swabs.

Were you really kicked out of every school you went to?
That is true. I had an uncontrollable wit. I was the guy that made everybody laugh, and I got caught one too many times. I went to several public schools. I went to religious school. I was thrown out of Hebrew school, which was the final straw. They said, "God doesn't like you anymore. Go eat pork."

You're also something of a conspiracy theorist.
Everything is a conspiracy. People kind of demonize the word. But a conspiracy is when two people get together and do something. So, if more than one person does something, it's a conspiracy. The revolution was a conspiracy, Iran Contra, Watergate.

Do you have any thoughts on politics today?
Why, is something going on?

A few minor things.
I'm a huge Obama supporter. I just feel that America has a chance to redeem itself in the eyes of the world and in our own souls. I think he'll be a great president. And I think he'll win. Big.

What's the feeling about the election in France, where I know you spend a lot of your time?
They're Obama crazy in France. They're writing songs about him; they've got him on T-shirts. The Europeans I know, they were worried that Bush kept talking to God. The fact that Obama is not shoving religion down everybody's throat is very comforting. Plus, a person of color would really send a message to the rest of the world that we're not all white, warmongering racists.

Source: Vulture | 14 Oct 2008 | 5:44 pm

Would you buy a car from this TV star?

Read full story for latest details.

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 5:40 pm

Ed Hardy Brightens Up for Spring 2009 (Fashion Wire Daily)

Fashion Wire Daily - Designer Christian Audigier brought his Ed Hardy label to the Main Stage at the Mercedes-Benz Spring 2009 Los Angeles Fashion Week on Monday, Oct. 13, showing his signature tattoo-inspired streetwear to an appreciative audience.

Source: Yahoo! News: Fashion News | 14 Oct 2008 | 5:15 pm

Did Milan Kundera Tattle on an Anti-Communist Spy?

Photo: Getty Images

Maybe! According to the Institute for the Study of Totalitarian Regimes, in 1950, The Unbearable Lightness of Being author, Milan Kundera, informed on a guest in a Czechoslovakian student dormitory where he lived when he was 21 years old. The guest, Miroslav Dvoracek, was apparently an American-backed anti-Communist spy; he was arrested and served fourteen years in prison, including a stint of hard labor in a uranium mine. Kundera was a member of the Communist party in his youth, but he's been a critic of totalitarianism since the Soviets invaded Czechoslovakia in 1968. In a statement, Kundera said, "I object in the strongest manner to these accusations, which are pure lies" and claims the media is attempting "the assassination of an author." Also, in Kundera's defense, Dvoracek doesn't sound like he was a very good spy.

Report Says Acclaimed Czech Writer Informed on a Supposed Spy [NYT]

Source: Vulture | 14 Oct 2008 | 5:03 pm

What Is Wrong With Janet Jackson?

Mystery illness forces Janet Jackson to cancel more concerts.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 4:50 pm

People take pictures of the Palais des Festivals during the 24th edition of the five-day MIPCOM in Cannes

People take pictures of the Palais des Festivals during the 24th edition of the five-day MIPCOM in Cannes, southern France. Faced with global doom and gloom, leaders of the world's audiovisual industry...
Source: Infocious RSS raw feed - channel BNImagesEnter | 14 Oct 2008 | 4:27 pm

‘Heroes’: Damned If We Know

Photo: Courtesy NBC

Last night, we officially threw up our hands and thought, We have no idea what's supposed to be happening here. Old characters are reappearing without explanation, new factions are breaking off for no apparent reason (Hiro is being asked to join some sort of vigilante spinoff group, but we couldn't for the likes of us figure out what it was alleged to be, let alone its purpose), and characters' motivations aren't just shifting wildly in the middle of a show, but the middle of a scene. And so for today's recap, we present you with a random list of things established this episode.

Mohinder Has Turned Into Brundle Bickle. Since injecting himself with superpowers, the reluctant and pointless narrator has turned from the Fly into a street avenger, taking spouse abusers and drug dealers into his den and putting them into a cocoon. He’s lost it now, though, and captured his “girlfriend” Maya, all because she tried to kill him. Women.

Adam Monroe Drinks Appletinis. When the long-buried former supervillain is dug up by Hiro and Andu, he saunters into a mean-looking watering hole and promptly orders an appletini. This might be why, despite his superpowers, he is later knocked out with one punch.

Hiro Stabs Ando. Supposedly, he did this to join the vague group of superhero vigilantes hoping to save the world. He even looked slightly mean when he did it. But let’s just say we have a feeling Ando will return, still alive and still useless.

Sylar Is Very Safety Conscious. Despite possessing pretty much every superpower known to man, Sylar still wears his seat belt.

Ali Larter Is Never Leaving This Show. Now that it’s official that her Tracy Strauss character is indeed a triplet who was given superpowers by a mad scientist hired by “The Company,” we’re more convinced than ever that if something happens to Tracy, the writers will come up with a fourth sister, a clone, or a simple Face/Off-esque body swap.

Look, It’s Bubbles! Andre Royo, Bubbles from The Wire, shows up as Stephen Canfield, a supposed supervillain who just misses his family, creates “Vortex Holes” and dies within minutes of our meeting him. We still love him.

Max Cherry Has Arrived. As promised, Robert Forster joined the cast last night, as Arthur Petrelli, head of the ever-growing Petrelli family and some sort of manifestation of Super Evil. He instantly becomes the best actor on the show — by far — and we can only hope he kills every other character and opens up a bail-bond business with Tiny Lister.

Source: Vulture | 14 Oct 2008 | 4:16 pm

Ringo Starr to Fans: No More Fan Mail

After 45 years, Ringo Starr says no more to answering mail, sending autographs.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 3:51 pm

Barbara Walters Responds to Star Jones' 'Hateful' Comment

Barbara Walters appeared to take the high road as she responded to Star Jones' accusation that the women of "The View" were "hateful" toward her as she was leaving the show.
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 3:45 pm

Marsha Brady's TV Siblings React to Book

Maureen McCormick never shared her tell-all book with rest of "The Brady Bunch."
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 3:41 pm

Gossip Girl Writer Removes Breasts to Prevent Cancer

Jessica Queller, supervising producer and head writer of "Gossip Girl," choose to have her breasts removed - and she didn't have breast cancer
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 3:39 pm

Ailing Janet Jackson Postpones More Shows

The doctor has again ordered Janet Jackson to postpone a return to her "Rock Witchu" tour.
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 3:14 pm

Rolling Stone Ends Large Format After 4 Decades

After more than four decades of standing out with a larger format than other magazines, it will step back and look like everyone else starting with the Oct. 30 issue, due out this week.
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 3:11 pm

Reports: Beckham Employees Arrested

British newspapers are reporting that two people who worked for David Beckham and his wife were arrested after some of the couple's possessions were spotted on an Internet auction site.
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 3:11 pm

Ringo Starr Doesn't Want to Answer Mail, Sign Fan Photos

After 45 years of stardom, he doesn't want to spend any more time answering mail or sending signed photos back to fans.
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 3:06 pm

Maureen 'Marcia' McCormick Mum With 'Brady' Actors

Maureen McCormick never opened up to her "Brady Bunch" siblings about her new tell-all book.
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 2:58 pm

Steven Spielberg's DreamWorks Signs On With Universal

Steven Spielberg's DreamWorks studio has signed on with Universal Pictures to distribute its films as his company parts ways with Paramount.
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 2:42 pm

Beckham Housekeepers Arrested for Theft

London staffers arrested after David and Victoria Beckham's possessions on eBay.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 2:37 pm

Singer wanted to be Elton, happy to be himself

When he was growing up in the 1970s, Ron Sexsmith's dream was to play piano. Elton John and Little Richard, those frenzied masters of the keyboard, those were his heroes.

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 1:37 pm

Pop Tarts: Holly Madison Seems Miserable Without Hugh Hefner

Hugh Hefner's ex-girlfriend Holly Madison seemed to be making the most of her newfound freedom as she attended Sunday night's 5th Annual Hollywood Style Awards ... but she didn't look so happy to be hanging out with her potential replacement.
Source: FOXNews.com | 14 Oct 2008 | 1:17 pm

Applegate: Why I had a double mastectomy

For more than 20 years, actress Christina Applegate has kept audiences laughing.

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 12:36 pm

The orchestra playing for peace

The call doesn't come very often, but when it does the answer is invariably yes. This week, 91 of the world's finest musicians will clear their diaries and fly to Jerusalem for a rare performance of the World Orchestra for Peace.

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 14 Oct 2008 | 10:35 am