Mamma Mia!: Titanic's U.K. Record Run Aground

The unflagging cheerfulness of ABBA conquered the red-hot chemistry between Leo and Kate this week as Mamma Mia! nudged aside...

Source: E! Online - Top Stories | 17 Dec 2008 | 2:12 am

Dennis Quaid Gets $750K from Hospital

The actor and his wife settle with LA hospital that gave drug overdose to twins.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 17 Dec 2008 | 2:09 am

Sneak Peek: Pete & Ashlee Sniff Out Dog Whisperer

Prior to the birth of little baby Bronx, Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simpson-Wentz wanted to make sure their two English bulldogs were well-prepared for the arrival of the newest member of the...

Source: E! Online - Top Stories | 17 Dec 2008 | 2:00 am

Universal, Verbinski plan to role-play

Front Page: Steven Knight to base script on WSJ article -- Universal and "Pirates of the Caribbean" helmer Gore Verbinski have acquired a 2007 Wall Street Journal article they will use as the basis for a film about the online fantasy role-playing world and its detrimental impact on the real lives of players.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 17 Dec 2008 | 1:00 am

Endemol unveils major TV plans

Front Page: Dozen scripted shows include HBO comedy -- Endemol USA is looking to achieve in the scripted arena the kind of success it's found in reality TV.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 17 Dec 2008 | 12:09 am

Fox TV asks for 2% cuts

Front Page: Economy causes studio to follow ABC, WB -- Twentieth Century Fox TV has joined the ranks of studios making budget cuts as economy fears worsen.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 16 Dec 2008 | 11:39 pm

Exclusive Video: Debbie Harry Reminisces About Stephen Sprouse

Tomorrow Louis Vuitton launches WeLoveSprouse.com, a Website dedicated to Stephen Sprouse in honor of his collaboration with the house. The site promises to graphically re-create the New York spirit of the eighties. It was a great decade — the neon, the headbands, the rubber bracelets, Debbie Harry, Sprouse's graffiti-printed fashions. We could go on, but we'll stop there and present you with an exclusive preview of a video from the site, in which Harry reminisces about living in the same building on the Bowery as Sprouse, spliced with jazzy shots of the new Louis Vuitton Stephen Sprouse bags, of course.

Read more posts by Amy Odell

Filed Under: collaboration station, debbie harry, handbags, louis vuitton, stephen sprouse, video

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 11:30 pm

We Still Watch Heroes, Eventually

All right, TiVo users, your generic DVR relations and those who aspire to be the masters of their TV universes: Which shows did we record—and watch—the most in 2008? And why's the...

Source: E! Online - Top Stories | 16 Dec 2008 | 11:28 pm

Could Chuck Lorre Be the Smartest Person in Television?

Pop quiz, asshole: Name us today's three most successful half-hour comedies on television. 30 Rock? The Office? Family Guy? If you rattled off any of the above, Dennis Hopper has already blown up your bus. Instead, you should've gone with any of the three sitcoms anchoring the suddenly formidable comedy block that CBS airs on Monday nights: The Big Bang Theory, How I Met Your Mother, and Two and a Half Men. Last night, all three of these shows scored either series- or season-high ratings (and the possibly canceled Worst Week benefited greatly, too). So what is CBS doing that the other networks aren't? Well, it all starts with the last man standing from the sitcom explosion of the eighties and nineties, Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men series creator Chuck Lorre.

Lorre, who along with a veritable who's who of television writers like Joss Whedon and Amy Sherman-Palladino, cut his teeth writing for Roseanne in the early nineties. He went on to create Grace Under Fire and Dharma and Greg, before developing the exceedingly middlebrow (yet also envelope-pushing) Two and a Half Men for CBS. While snobby television critics turned their noses on the show, Men resonated with Middle America in a HUGE way and has gone on to become the highest-rated comedy on television since Everybody Loves Raymond called it a day. And now the show is even proving its worth in the highly profitable afterlife of syndication, where it is generating even more bank than series star Charlie Sheen has spent on hookers and is propelling the first-run shows to even higher ratings. "More people discover the show in reruns than they would necessarily when it is up against nine dramas, football games, dancing amputees and whatnot," Lorre told TV Week.

Following in the footsteps of Men, Lorre's other show, The Big Bang Theory, is on track to be television's next big comedy. Launched in the fall of 2007 just months before the writers' strike crippled Hollywood and made our lives even more boring than usual, the show about four science-geek friends and the "hot" girl who lives across the hall from their apartment has been catching fire, ratings-wise, since moving to the 8 p.m. time slot this year. It was also the beneficiary of a glowing Wall Street Journal review just last week. Though it will probably never reach the mass audience success of shows like Roseanne or Friends, all of the metrics are pointing toward the show being around for a long, long time. And based on the few episodes of the show that we've actually seen, this isn't necessarily a bad thing — believe it or not, the show's actually kinda funny!

All of which is kind of a long-winded way of once again bringing up Entertainment Weekly's 25 Smartest People on Television list. Yes, Chuck Lorre was included, but despite helming the two most popular comedies on television, he only managed to come in at No. 20. Yes, nineteen spots below Ken Tucker's favorite person on television, Seth MacFarlane. Lorre shrugged off the dis in typical fashion during the close of last night's Big Bang Theory, using one of his now-patented closing-credit vanity cards.

Recently the magazine Entertainment Weekly had an article entitled the "The 25 Smartest People in Television." Yours truly was ranked at number twenty. If the article is to be taken seriously, and God knows, why wouldn't any sensible person take it seriously, that means there are currently nineteen people in the TV biz who are smarter than me. Now I'm just thinking out loud here, but if something were to happen to those nineteen people … if say, they were to, one by one, have horrible accidents, or mysteriously disappear, then that would make me, ipso facto, the number one smartest person in television. Then I'd just have to keep an eye on number twenty-one. Christina Wayne, Senior VP of original programming at AMC, looks like the kind of woman who would stop at nothing to move up a spot.

Though we're not about to crown Lorre as the Smartest Person in Television based solely on the fact that he's got two shows resting comfortably in the top twenty each week, we can commit to starting to pay more attention to what's going on over at CBS these days (particularly on Monday nights). And now that execs at CBS seem to have begun figuring out that there's more to life than churning out procedurals, maybe it's high time to pronounce the Tiffany Network the smartest network on television. Maybe.

Ratings: 'Chuck' delivers for NBC, but CBS still rules Monday [Hollywood Insider/EW]
A Nerdy Comedy's Winning Formula [WSJ]

Read more posts by Mark Graham

Filed Under: CBS, Chuck Lorre, How I Met Your Mother, The Big Bang Theory, Tube Junkie, TV, Two And A Half Men

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 11:15 pm

Afternoon Fix: Jim Carrey Doesn't Like Prozac

• With Tom Cruise on his current "I could have handled it better" press tour, we were left with no actors to lecture us on the dangers of prescription drugs...until now! Jim...

Source: E! Online - Top Stories | 16 Dec 2008 | 11:12 pm

Caroline to Go on the Road to Stump for Senate Seat

Caroline Kennedy’s non-campaign campaign is in full dial-a-thon mode, but she will soon hit the road just like an ordinary politician. Today’s lucky recipients of calls from the U.S. Senate aspirant include Mike Fishman, head of 32BJ, the politically savvy “doorman’s union”; Kelli Conlin, executive director of Naral Pro-Choice New York; and Jack Kittle, political director of DC 9, the painters' union. “There’s no reason why government experience ought to be a prerequisite for the job,” Fishman says. “If she gets down to me on the list, it shows a lot,” Kittle added. “I just told her, ‘Go work hard.’ My group thinks she’s a good choice—not to say anything bad about the others.”

Conlin says Kennedy is planning to travel the state in the next few weeks, introducing herself to elected officials and regular folks as she ramps up her bid to replace Hillary Clinton. “Caroline is very genuine, and as she travels around the state and talks to people, that will be the impression she’ll leave, that she’s genuine and she takes this very seriously,” Conlin says. “It’s really hard when you just have this media swirl around you. It’s so much better when you actually go out and talk to real people in real places in New York.”

With Clinton apparently telling her loyalists not to get in Kennedy’s way, what else does she need to do to convince Governor Paterson to send her to Washington next year? Reach out to her putative rivals in the state’s congressional delegation, including Kirsten Gillibrand and Steve Israel, to smooth over tensions, for one. And if Kennedy’s media blackout continues, the papers will start accusing her of hiding. She may consider that less risky, however, than flubbing some state-trivia question — or sounding as if she has the job locked up before Paterson makes it official.

Related: The Cinderella Kennedy

Read more posts by Chris Smith

Filed Under: caroline kennedy, david paterson, early and often, hillary clinton, Hillary's senate seat, politics

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 11:10 pm

Miu Miu Closes Madison Avenue Store

Miu Miu just opened a store on 57th Street, but their Madison Avenue digs at 69th Street are no more. The store is "devoid of merchandise or brand signage, and its location has been removed from the store list on Miumiu.com." Oh dear, now all the rich people have to go 22 blocks south to shop. Woe. [Fashion Week Daily]

Read more posts by Amy Odell

Filed Under: miu miu, store closing, the madison plague

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 11:02 pm

…OF THE DAY

• IT'S OFFICE-AL: Following the Superbowl this year, the Office will air a super-sized celebrity-packed special, with appearance by Jack Black and Jessica Alba. No word yet if Garbage will make an appearance, which would be the ultimate Hollywood trifecta. (Ausiello Files)
• LET YOUR BODY AWKWARDLY GROOVE WITH THE MUSIC: Have you noticed that at least 50 percent of the Vogue covers from 2008 have been, for lack of a better word, terribly retarded? Well the good people at Scandalist have, and they bring you those covers for your perusing displeasure. At right, a stille from Anne Hathaway's latest film, The Dutch Ovens. (Scandalist)
• CHRISTMAS JIRACLE: Doctors have decided not to perform surgery on Rachael Ray's vocal chords this Christmas. In a related story, Extra Virgin Olive Oil just committed suicide. (People Magazine)
• PUT UP YOUR BABY-FISTED DUKES: Verne Troyer has started a feud with Gabe over at Videogum.com. I'd be careful if I were him, lest Verne visit him in the middle of the night, nude and on a rascal, and pees all over him. Unless he's into the sort of thing, in which case *luck!* (Videogum)
• PORN TO PARTY: Jenna Jameson is now 5 months pregnant with twins, ensuring her family's future in the porn empire for at least 30 more years. (ONTD)

Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 11:00 pm

Keanu-Slideshow Mania Overtakes Internet

When we posted our 29-part slideshow Vulture's Complete Field Guide to the Facial Expressions of Keanu Reeves last Thursday, we thought we were merely converting our readers' enthusiasm for the acting style of one of our generation's foremost thespians into lucrative page views and ad dollars — who knew we were helping to create a genre! Websites for both the L.A. Times and Esquire also did Keanu-related slideshows, officially making this a trend.

Read more posts by Lane Brown

Filed Under: keanu reeves, movies, whoa

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:58 pm

America's Most Wanted Case Closed: Murderer of John Walsh's Son Identified

Finally some closure for John Walsh's family. Florida police announced Tuesday that they have solved the murder of the America's Most Wanted host's 6-year-old son Adam, who...

Source: E! Online - Top Stories | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:51 pm

Fox TV delivers blow to SAG

Front Page: News Corp. attempts AFTRA contract swap -- On Tuesday, News Corp. said it would not rule out switching its current TV series from SAG to AFTRA contracts. SAG immediately blasted back, saying the company was using illegal "scare tactics."

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:43 pm

Come On Down!

Some dude on The Price Is Right correctly guessed the exact prize value (!) during the Showcase Showdown today, a feat which last occurred during the Nixon era. As great as we feel for this guy, who magically pulled the number $23,743 out of thin air, we feel even worse for the lady he was competing against. She was only $494 off on her guess; on any other day, this would've been good enough for her to take home both of the showcases. But today, she got nada. [Will Leitch Experience]

Read more posts by Mark Graham

Filed Under: No Way!, The Price Is Right

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:34 pm

What to Expect at the Marc Jacobs Sale

Shoes, glorious 70 percent off shoes!

Last night we finally swung by the Marc Jacobs sale, eager to begin our Christmas shopping. (Yes, we're one of those shoppers. But when you show up with a bag of MJ goodies, all is forgiven.) We weren't sure what we'd find, but armed with our camera phone, we were determined to find out. The 70 percent off sale extends to the fall collection and shoes and not, alas, to bags as we were hoping. (We can dream, okay?) The gray wools from fall, though gorgeous on the runway, were entirely too warm to try on in yesterday's bizarre heat wave. The shoes included suede bootees, strappy sandals, and flats. Men's sneakers were marked down from $290 (you do the math). All were cute, but we realized we already had something similiar to the one pair we really wanted, and so we were left with the $10 rain boots. Of course, we nearly fell over ourselves trying to get to the bags and MJ's not-on-sale cashmere. So bargain hunters, pore through his fall collection, find some cute wool dresses, and you'll be in shopping heaven. We, on the other hand, will just sit and wait for the snow to turn to flying pigs and hope the cute little Mary purse gets a serious markdown.

Read more posts by Amina Akhtar

Filed Under: know before you go, marc jacobs, sales

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:31 pm

Ghost Of Heidi Klum Appears On The Cover Of GQ For Kidz

Actually it's just GQ Italy, not some wacky GQ equivalent of Sports Illustrated for Kids. But that is actually Heidi Klum's ghost.
Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:28 pm

Bernie Madoff: ‘In Today’s Regulatory Environment, It’s Virtually Impossible to Violate Rules’

"By and large, in today's regulatory environment, it's virtually impossible to violate rules … and this is something that the public really doesn't understand … it's impossible for a violation to go undetected. Certainly not for a considerable period of time … When you look at the scope of the trading that goes on today on Wall Street and look at what we would consider to be the infractions, they're relatively small, due to regulation, and most firms try to comply with that." — Bernard Madoff, of Madoff Securities, who recently pleaded guilty to perpetrating a $50 billion Ponzi scheme, speaking to a bunch of unwitting senior citizens. [Video at right, via DealBreaker]

Read more posts by Jessica Pressler

Filed Under: Ballsy Crimes, bernard madoff, bernie madoff, business, crime

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:24 pm

'Watchmen' trial moved back

Front Page: Judge delays courtdate to Jan. 20 -- A Los Angeles federal judge has moved the trial for "Watchmen" back two weeks to Jan. 20 after declining to issue a ruling on whether Fox or Warner Bros. controls the rights to the project.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:23 pm

So Is This Actors’ Strike Going to Happen or What?

Maybe! If you'd asked us a month ago if we thought the Screen Actors Guild would dare call a strike over something as paltry as new-media royalties in the middle of the worst financial crisis of our time (and just a year after Hollywood was devastated by a three-month writers' strike), we'd have told you they'd have to be crazy. As it turns out, though, maybe they are! Despite the cooler heads of the guild's members, SAG leadership appears to be headed for a strike-authorization vote that could derail next year's Oscars, along with 2010's spate of sequels, remakes, and reboots.

Amid escalating rhetoric between thespians and producers, Vulture buddy Nikki Finke reports that last night's SAG town-hall meeting in New York was a shouty affair, with members calling for the replacement of union leadership and the acceptance of the studios' last contract offer, made last June. "This is such a horrible deal, but everyone else has taken it so we need to take it," says Finke's source at the meeting. "We know the economy will be better in three years." And yesterday, a cabal of A-list actors drafted a letter to SAG leadership asking the guild to vote against a strike authorization lest any of them miss out on a $40 million paycheck next year: "We do not believe in all good conscience that now is the time to be putting people out of work," wrote Tom Hanks, Ed Begley Jr., and others.

Hilariously, SAG replied in a letter of its own: "Unfortunately, the vast majority of those who signed on have not attended informational meetings and have not taken the opportunity to learn the facts directly from Screen Actors Guild. Clearly, the AMPTP's rhetoric has had the desired effect." So, yes, Hollywood is probably doomed here.

Stars Urge "No" Vote To Authorize Strike [Deadline Hollywood Daily]
SAG's NYC Town Hall: "Vocal & Brutal" [Deadline Hollywood Daily]
SAG's Allen Responds To 'Vote No' Stars: "AMPTP's Rhetoric Had Desired Effect" [Deadline Hollywood Daily]

Read more posts by Lane Brown

Filed Under: labor unrest

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:15 pm

Bronx Mowgli Hates His Parents: Part #4,562

Pete Wentz today told Howard Stern all about his "amazing" sex life with Ashlee Simpson. Here's how he described their first time:

“It was at the Soho Grand Hotel [in New York City], and I’m looking in the mirrors, [thinking], ‘Oh my God, you are [sleeping with] the girl of your dreams, and you can watch yourself!’”

Okay. So imagine you're a tiny baby named Bronx Mowgli. It's bad enough that your parents are Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simpson. And that they gave you this name. But imagine that moment - perhaps it will be when you're 15, 16, 17 years old - when you fully realize WHO your parents are. Maybe one of your school friends sits you down in front of the internet and says, "dude, there's something I need to show you." 7 hours later, you've seen it all - the pictures, the videos, the songs, the interviews - and then it hits you: "I'm Bronx Mowgli Wentz." The next ten years will undoubtedly be horrible - but eventually, you'll rise from the ashes with a Zach-Braffy type movie about disentangling yourself from the sh*t-colored shadow left upon you by your parents. In the meantime, hang in there little buddy. We're rooting for you!!
Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 10:00 pm

Bijou Phillips’s Harsh Words on Michelle Obama’s Election Night Dress

Bijou Phillips on Michelle Obama's Election Night Narciso Rodriguez dress: "It made her look fat. It wasn’t her best dress. It didn’t fit her properly. And she can look awesome. She needs stuff that’s cut on the bias, and that dress wasn’t … I love Michelle Obama. If you print that you need to print that I would have voted for her. And that I think she’s a great dresser, except for that one dress." [BlackBook via Jezebel]

Read more posts by Amy Odell

Filed Under: bijou phillips, michelle obama, narciso rodriguez, we think she just did

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:52 pm

George Bush: Shoe Toss Was ‘One of the Most Weird Moments of My Presidency’

George Bush sat down with CNN's Candy Crowley to talk about the housing and financial markets (they were "inebriated"), the auto-industry bailout (he's considering "all options"), and, of course, the shoe-throwing Iraqi reporter from this weekend. Bush kept his sense of humor about the whole thing:

Crowley: Was there ever a part of you that, in reflection, went, wait a second, we have poured billions of dollars, not to mention U.S. blood and treasure into this country, how dare this guy, even if he is a single guy?

Bush: No, I — look, first of all, I didn't have much time to reflect on anything. I was ducking and dodging. And I — first of all, it has got to be one of the most weird moments of my presidency. Here I am getting ready to answer questions from a free press in a democratic Iraq, and a guy stands up and throws a shoe.

Bush: And it was bizarre. And it was an interesting way for a person to express himself. I was asked about it immediately after the incident and I said, here's a person that obviously was longing for notoriety and he achieved it. But I don't feel this is — I'm not angry with the system, I believe that a free society is emerging and a free society is necessary for our own security and peace.

So he's pretty philosophical about the whole thing, and hopes that Iraqi authorities don't "overreact" in their handling of the journalist. But this quote got us thinking. This is really one of the "most weird" moments in your presidency? Really? Setting aside anything war-, economy-, or policy-related, was it weirder than the time you couldn't open that door in China? Or when you chest-bumped an Air Force cadet? Or when you punched the air and said, "Good-bye from the world's biggest polluter" at the end of a climate meeting at the G8?

Not that we won't, in some small way, miss this kind of thing. But it will be nice, for a change, to have a president who has a slightly lower level of enthusiasm for the "weird."

Bush on auto bailout, war in Iraq, shoe-throwing reporter [CNN]
Earlier: Ten Reasons Why the George Bush Shoe Attack Was Completely Awesome

Read more posts by Chris Rovzar

Filed Under: early and awesome, george bush, iraq, shoes, weird things

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:50 pm

New Britney Spears: Girl Is Back

“I'm a put-on-a-show kind of girl,” sasses Britney Spears, continuing to put on her best, non-car-wreck show in years: The title track from the new Circus is the second single from that album, and though the video can’t quite match the skintensity of the “director’s cut” of the clip for “Womanizer,” the song itself not only brings a great beat and insinuating chorus, but a bridge so pretty Chris Martin wouldn’t have minded coming up with it. It’s easily among Britney’s top singles, ever. We await a “Circus” remix with the self-proclaimed ringmaster of pop, T-Pain.

Download “Circus”: Viva la Mainstream

Read more posts by Ehren Gresehover

Filed Under: britney spears, music, right-click

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:30 pm

Perry Farrell Wants You To Get Your Daily Serving Of Fruit And Sex

Perry Farrell has a new music video out for his song, "Go All The Way (Into The Twilight)," and it's really juicy. If you noticed the word "twilight" in the title, then you won't be surprised to find out that this song is featured in the movie Twilight. In the video, strung-out lookin' girls are biting into pomegranates and squeezing the juice all over each other - as if it were BLOOD. Also featured in this video is Perry's wife, Etty Lau Farrell, who sings with him. (Full disclosure: I kind of like this song.)

Are they singing "Happy days / We're going all the way"? Happy days indeed! Because I think the last time people referred to banging as "going all the way" was during an episode of Happy Days.
Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:30 pm

Silda Edits Eliot’s Slate Columns!

Newly christened Slate columnist Eliot Spitzer is really warming up to his new role as a media professional. Last night, while he was "mingling extensively" at the Website's holiday party, an Intel tipster overheard him actually discussing his process: "I feel like I'm better at expressing my self through writing than speaking," he said. "I usually take about an hour to write [a column] and then send it to my wife to edit." He has not yet adopted the slovenly dress code popular among his peers, however. "I guess I'm the only one here wearing a suit," another eavesdropper heard him remarking. [Intel Box]

Read more posts by Jessica Pressler

Filed Under: Client 9, eliot spitzer, media, slate

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:28 pm

Fontana returns to 'Philanthropist'

Front Page: NBC, showrunner settle creative differences -- Tom Fontana has returned to NBC's midseason drama "The Philanthropist."

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:16 pm

Youtubers Just Can’t Get Enough Of These Bush / Shoe Videos

One of our editors took the following screengrab of Youtube's "Most Watched Today" tab last night and wouldn't you know it -- no fewer than THIRTEEN of the sixteen Most Watched videos on the entire site involved the Bush/shoe-throwing encounter: I suppose this proves that not only is the Bush/shoe encounter surefire internet gold, but also that "Betty Cakes" and "Steal a Girl's Privates?!" are simply timeless.
Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:15 pm

Francisco Costa and Donna Karan Foresee Smaller Fall 2009 Collections

Even Donna Karan and Calvin Klein aren't immune to the economic downturn. At ACRIA's thirteenth annual holiday party last night, held at Donna Karan's Urban Zen boutique, both Karan and Calvin Klein's Francisco Costa revealed that their fall collections will probably be smaller than in the past. "With a collection … you want the most creative, the most beautiful, the most well made — we're not cutting when it comes to that," Costa said. "Maybe the collection will be a little smaller, but it will still be exciting." Costa acknowledged that Calvin Klein budgets had been cut for the next couple of years — "nothing damaging, but what's consistent with our reality." Karan is in a similar boat and told us she was "desperately" trying to make her fall collection smaller.

Costa wouldn't reveal the inspiration for his fall line because he wants us to be surprised. Karan also dodged the question but noted, "I just came back from Washington and was affected by the importance of executive women's dressing, women's power." She said she scoped out all the women senators, adding, "I thought they were beautiful." So are punchy pantsuits in her future? We'll find out in less than ten weeks!

Read more posts by Blythe Sheldon

Filed Under: calvin klein, donna karan, fall 2009, francisco costa, new york fashion week, party lines

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:15 pm

Tom Cruise Always Celebrating ‘Take Your Daughter to Work’ Day

At last night’s premiere of Valkyrie, Tom Cruise explained how much fun it was for Suri to visit him on set: “She knows when to be quiet when I'm shooting, she knows to watch the monitor and when I'm done.” Get ideas for other cool family activities from Terence Stamp and Padma Lakshmi by watching our Party Lines slideshow.

Read more posts by Nina Mandell

Filed Under: party lines, tom cruise, valkyrie

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 9:06 pm

Paterson Brings a World of Hurt Upon Himself

As predicted, Governor Paterson's budget plan to cut down the projected $15.4 billion budget gap is pretty draconian. Releasing it a month earlier than anticipated, he's giving everyone some time over the holidays to stew over it (or calm down about it) before they tackle it in earnest in January. According to the Times, the cuts include:

• $700 in education-aid cuts and a delay of some already-promised payments.
• Medicaid will be largely safe, but budget increases for hospitals and nursing homes would be cut by $1 billion.
• 521 state-agency workers will be laid off.
• Seven state agencies will be eliminated or merged.

• 137 new or increased taxes and fees will be instituted (including tax on sugary non-diet drinks, car rentals, beer and wine, cable TV, and cigars).
• Property-tax rebates will be canceled.
• New York City will lose some aid.
• Thirteen prison camps (they still call them that?) or detention centers will be closed.

Naturally, every single special interest facing a cut is going bonkers. Assembly Republicans say the middle class will be hit too hard by the new taxes and fees, and unions are bracing for a battle. And you know the worst part? It snowed today, briefly. It was those big, beautiful snowflakes that make everyone in your office stand by the windows quietly for a few minutes. It almost felt like Christmas! But then it stopped and the snow melted as quickly as it had fallen.

Paterson Unveils Plan for Closing Budget Deficit [NYT]
Earlier: David Paterson Facing a World of Trouble Over Budget Cuts

Read more posts by Chris Rovzar

Filed Under: albany, budget cuts, budgets, david paterson, early and often, politics, unions

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:45 pm

First Review of New Will Ferrell Comedy Show Hits Tumblr

According to the Lawrence plays piano Tumblr site, Will Ferrell tested out his new, Broadway-bound George W. Bush material in a secret show at the Largo theater in Los Angeles on Sunday night. The play is set in the moments immediately following Barack Obama being sworn into office and presents a portrait of a newly unburdened and noticeably randy Bushie who, at one point, shows the audience pictures of his penis in slideshow form. But the review also contains several mentions to well-worn jokes about Dick Cheney shooting people in the face and jabs at ex–FEMA director Michael Brown, which leaves us no choice other than to stick to our original recommendation of just watching it on HBO instead. [Lawrence plays piano]

Read more posts by Mark Graham

Filed Under: News Reel, Will Ferrell, You're Welcome America: A Night With George W. Bush

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:41 pm

THE PRICE IS EXACTLY RIGHT: Local Man Wins Both Showcases, Makes Game Show History

I've been watching The Price is Right since the time my eyeholes were developed enough to take images in -- but on today's episode, I witnessed an absolute first in my own Price is Right viewing history: A man guessed his Showcase Showdown dollar amount EXACTLY right. Yes -- on the nose. And it's not like the prize package was worth $25,000 or something equally as even-keeled and reasonabe: This is truly a one-in-a-million moment. According to an almost tragically blase Drew Carey, the last time someone guessed their Showcase Showdown bid exactly right was in 1972. Merely 36 years later, it is our sincere pleasure to bring you this most unusual TPIR moment:

Raise your hand if you got chills? And it's a good thing Bob Barker wasn't there -- lest he have a shock heart attack and drop d on pre-taped television.
Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:36 pm

Telling a B.I.G. Story: Inside the Biggie Smalls Biopic "Notorious"

Star Jamal "Gravy" Woolard and Co. on capturing the Brooklyn rapper's life onscreen Stop us if you heard this one before: An unheralded, upstart artist joins an ensemble cast of proven actors and delivers a defining performance in biopic period piece. "I'm like the 2009 Jennifer Hudson," rapper Jamal "Gravy" Woolard says, laughing at his improbable turn as hip-hop titan Biggie Smalls in Notorious, due in theaters January 16th. The thing is, it's no joke. Woolard more than holds his own next to seasoned vets Angela Bassett (What's Love Got To Do With It), Derek Luke...

Source: Rolling Stone: Features | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:35 pm

The Hills Shows How to Shotgun Your Wedding

Can someone tell us why we thought this was the season finale? Was it just wishful thinking? Because we’re going away next week and won’t be here to watch or recap the final episode! [Ed. note: Actually, someone will, just not Emma.] It’s like planning your prom and then having your date ditch you (or throw up on your shoes and get sent home — yeah, you know who you are, high-school friend). Or maybe it’s more like dreaming of a romantic, 3,000-person wedding and instead getting a tequila-soaked, non–legally binding solo ceremony? At least Heidi feels our pain.

We open in Cabo, where Heidi and Spencer are on a surprise trip that he planned at the last minute. Spencer’s scary facial hair is beginning to resemble that of a certain visually impaired local governor (but we won’t make any jokes about it, since that seems to be a sensitive subject of late). We get the first of Spencer’s creepy, controlling love declarations: “There are always other people trying to tear us apart.” All right, Romeo. The line works on Heidi, though, since she’s definitely a girl who thrives on relationship controversy (See Heidi and L.C.; Heidi and Holly; Heidi and Stephanie; Heidi and her boobs). “Buckle up, baby,” she instructs Spencer. Or maybe she's talking to us.

Much of the episode centers on Whitney’s prolonged good-bye. She’s heading to The City! Where people drive around on bicycles and keep all their worldly possessions in their baskets! So, to quickly go through her episode-long buh-bye, we present you with this abbreviated rundown:
1. Whitney gets a phone call at work: She got the job at DVF! Shock! Lauren says, “It’s amaaaaazing,” but is crying from jealousy on the inside.
2. Whitney has a going-away party. We’ve never seen Whitney’s friends before; we spy an ugly girl! Whit’s parents are there and make cute speeches. “You’ve progressed with dignity,” says her dad (eyeing Audrina warily, we imagine).
3. Lauren and Whitney say good-bye. “When I go to the grocery store, do I just take a cab there and bring all my groceries with me?” Whitney asks. Lauren also looks perplexed by this urban conundrum.
4. Whitney stares out a car window (again!) on the way to the airport; maudlin music swells. The shot lingers weirdly on a "Fee Per Checked Bag" sign and then pans up to some birds. Okay, Hills, you’re losing us here. Anyway, see you in two weeks, Whitney!

Back to the Wedding of the Year: Heidi’s prancing around in a red bikini and heels and OH MY GOD WE FORGOT HOW HUGE HER FAKE BREASTS WERE. Spencer gets aroused and we puke a little. They bond over how they’re not going to let Heidi’s evil family affect their relationship. Speaking of evil family, we cut back to L.A., where Stephanie is telling Audrina that Speidi is effectively missing. Justin is at Audrina’s house, eating her food and wearing a knit hat indoors, so they’re obviously back together. Justin delivers the best line of the night regarding Stephanie's search for her brother: “You should put up some signs,” he deadpans.

Back to Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Drunk. Heidi and Spencer are hanging out and taking Patron shots together (who does that?). Heidi pretends to be Spanish, yells, "Arriba!," tells Spencer he is “loco in la cabeza,” and then calls him Juan. WTF? Spencer convinces her to marry him in Mexico. It’s a secret, just them and the camera guys! They won’t tell anyone but all their close friends who read Us Weekly and Perez Hilton. Spencer’s proposal is classic: “I’m madly obsessed with you, which is pretty much apparent since I haven’t left your side in nearly two and a half years, and I pretty much keep you from the whole world.” Heidi better watch out: Next thing you know, that guy’s going to lock her in the basement, fatten her up, and ask her to put the lotion in the basket. Shudder. She says she’ll marry him and show him “what a wife does.” We don't even want to know what Heidi's interpretation of wifely duties might be. Just … no.

The next day, after the “wedding,” the happily married couple is frolicking in their hotel room. We see the ceremony on their camcorder, and it takes place in daylight, and they don’t seem drunk — wait, when did this thing happen? Aren’t they hung-over this morning? Then Heidi stares at herself (and her boobs) in the mirror, contemplating what she’s done. Which is … nothing, since it wasn’t a real wedding. But whatever.

Next week: Heidi’s mom is upset about the secret wedding, Lauren and Heidi hug, and Justin Bobby gives Audrina a little aluminum-foil-looking ring!

And now, our Unequivocal Hills Reality Index:

As Real As Audrina Is Proud of Her Decorating Skills
• Whitney’s mom. She’s sad her daughter’s leaving for New York — that’s real! Our mom used to cry when we went to sleepaway camp/college/abroad/anywhere but her house in much the same way.
• Audrina’s refusal to cut out J.B. from her sad, sad life. Thank God!
• Lauren waxed! Maybe? The lighting was off. You tell us.

As Fake As Lo’s Sadness About Whitney Leaving for NYC
• The wedding shenanigans. This is so fake it makes us mad. MAD.
• Whitney’s surprise about landing that job. She can’t believe it! Um, yeah.
• Stephanie and Audrina’s friendship. Have these two ever even spoken to each other before?

Read more posts by Emma Rosenblum

Filed Under: diane von furstenberg, head for the hills, heidi montag, lauren conrad, mtv, reality television, spencer pratt, the city, the hills, whitney port

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:32 pm

Photographer Jesse Rieser Shows a Flexible Three-Bedroom

Jesse Rieser's South City St. Louis (2008).

Jesse Rieser’s luminous, hyperstaged photograph seems to be a warning to aspiring party planners: Three people, a faux-shag rug, and a sparkling bong does not a memorable bash make. These people need to dim the lights and invite a couple of private-school brats over. Rieser is part of a group show at the brand-new Hendershot Gallery in Chelsea, through January 14.

Read more posts by Emma Pearse

Filed Under: art, art candy, jesse rieser

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:15 pm

Italy Has A New TV Show Called Dr. Clown, And It Looks Incredible

There's a new show coming to Italian television, and it's called Dr. Clown. I haven't been able to find anything about this on the internet, other than an almost empty IMDB page, but judging by this picture, it looks like it's going to be AWESOME: What do you think this show is about? Is it the Italian Grey's Anatomy? Or a serialized version of Patch Adams? Is the guy in the middle like Dr. House?
Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:15 pm

Brooklyn More Educated and Baby-Filled Than in 2000

New census data has some unsurprising news: Brooklyn is better educated and more baby-filled than it was in 2000. Twenty-five-year-olds with high-school diplomas are up 17 percent and those with bachelor's degrees are up 30 percent. Plus, in Park Slope, the number of kids under 5 has jumped 35 percent, just in case you couldn't feel that viscerally while dodging sippy cups on Seventh Avenue. [NYDN]

Read more posts by Tim Murphy

Filed Under: brooklyn, cobble hill, neighborhood watch, park slope

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:15 pm

GUESS WHO: Hottie or Child Molestor? (Or Both?)

This actor's movies should never be missed! Get it? I hate myself. Indeed, it's Michael Vartan!! Vartan made an appearance on The Bonnie Hunt Show today, and talked about things like his dog, turning 40 (!), hockey, being single (uhguhwhat?), and his upcoming movie with David Cross and Samwise Gangee, Demoted. As far as the above picture goes, all Michael had to say about it was "That's me as a stoned calculus teacher." That was it. Was this on Alias? A deleted scene from Never Been Kissed (my favorite movie behind Ever After)? Whatever the reason, it just goes to show: Michael Vartan makes an almost sexy and very convincing child molestor who may or may not know something about the study of limits and integrals. In other news, this man should be much more famous than he is (along with another lost Hollywood treasure, Steve Zahn.)
Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:09 pm

Some People Are Getting Bonuses This Year

Lloyd Blankfein, CEO of Goldman Sachs, had to give up his bonus this year. So did Morgan Stanley CEO John Mack, and Edward Liddy of AIG, and even John Thain of Merrill Lynch (even though he secretly, probably, believes he deserves that $10 million dollars for fobbing off the firm onto Bank of America and once the tables are righted he will probably physically ingest double that amount just out of spite). But you know who did get bonuses? Everyone at The Nation. Yes. Employees at the country's oldest and left-est newsweekly took home a cool $250 each this year, as their contract with the Communication Workers of America dictates they should. They also had a pretty decent holiday party, which was, despite being in the office and potluck, according to magazine publicist Ben Wyskida, "Relatively raucous. There was a lot of people, a lot of food," and since Katrina vanden Heuvel and company sprung for a luxe martini bar, "a substantial amount of drinking." So what did Wyskida do with his holiday windfall? "Specifically?" he asked. "I spent it on paying my roommate back for utilities."

Anyone else getting bonuses this year? E-mail us at intel@nymag.com

Read more posts by Jessica Pressler

Filed Under: bonuses, business, Ink-Stained Wretches, media, the greatest depression, the nation

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 8:00 pm

Jonathan Rhys Meyers Lands Hugo Boss Campaign; L’Oréal Heir Invests $1 Billion in Photographer

Jonathan Rhys Meyers

FRAGRANCE
• Hugo Boss will launch Hugo Element in 2009, a marine-scented men's fragrance targeted to a younger consumer. Actor Jonathan Rhys Meyers will star in the campaign — let's hope with merman fins à la Zoolander. [Cosmetic News]

• Burger King branches into fragrance with their first limited-edition scent called Flame, a "seductive" body spray with a "hint of flame-broiled meat," available at Ricky's for $3.99. Just because your mother said the way to a man's heart is through his stomach doesn't mean you have to smell like a burger. [Ad Age]

MAKEUP
• Liliane Bettencourt, the daughter of L’Oréal’s founder and reportedly the wealthiest woman in France, gave more than $1 billion in investments to photographer François-Marie Banier. This prompted her daughter Françoise Bettencourt Meyers to file a complaint claiming Banier is exploiting her mother. [WWD]

PLASTIC SURGERY
• W magazine explores the selfishness behind plastic surgery: "Patients are mad when they can’t get back to the office in five days," one surgeon says. "But if you say they can’t have sex for two weeks, they are like, 'Thank God, put it in writing!' People have other agendas now." Sigh. [Jezebel]

• In addition to smoothing wrinkles, Botox also rids skin of acne and oil. Because why use a cream when you can just inject yourself with stuff? [e-Beauty Daily]

Read more posts by Sharon Clott

Filed Under: beauty marks, botox, fragrance, francois-marie banier, hugo boss, liliane bettencourt, makeup, plastic surgery

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 7:57 pm

What Is This Kiddie Storm Trooper Holding His Hand?

This Children's Deluxe Storm Trooper Costume comes with a jumpsuit, a Storm Trooper mask, gloves, and an official Storm Trooper..... what the hell is that in his hand?? Is it: A) A grill lighter. B) A nightstick (for Death Star riot control). C) A leftover piece from his Ikea futon box. D) An Official Star Wars Children's Deluxe Storm Trooper Sex Toy. Leave your answers (and other suggestions) in the comments! Though I'm 99% sure it's D.
Source: Best Week Ever | 16 Dec 2008 | 7:45 pm

Online Pirates Trading Oscar Screeners

Love movies? Want to feel like a voting member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences? Have loose morals, a broadband connection, and lots of hard-drive space? If you answered yes to any of those questions, you're in luck! As they do every year, rips of DVD screeners for many of this fall's big Oscar hopefuls (plus Quantum of Solace, hilariously) have already leaked online and are currently being traded on peer-to-peer networks. A cursory Vulture investigation reveals that ones for Frost/Nixon, Milk, Changeling, Gran Torino, and Cadillac Records are all pretty much readily available — not that we endorse that sort of thing! (If anybody finds Rachel Getting Married, let us know.)

Read more posts by Lane Brown

Filed Under: movies, piracy

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 7:30 pm

Once Again, Hal Steinbrenner Tops Hank

"Hey Hal, where'd you get that cool lanyard? Can I have one? C'mon, you get all the cool stuff."

It's been a rough couple of weeks for Hank Steinbrenner's ego. Even if he did vote for it himself, we can’t imagine that he was truly happy when the Yankees officially designated his brother Hal as the team’s controlling partner last month. And we imagine he isn't too pleased now to find out that, unlike last year, his name doesn’t appear in the Sports Business Journal’s annual list of the 50 most influential people in sports business. Or that his brother Hal does, at No. 28.

And though it’s true that Hal is becoming increasingly visible while Hank has been popping up less often in the tabloids — seriously, we can’t even remember the last time he was on the back page saying something ridiculous — Hank can at least take solace in the SBJ’s methods. According to executive editor Abraham Madkour, the Yankees actually occupy the same spot on the list as last year; they just changed the name to reflect Hal’s rise. Which leads us to believe that, in terms of influence, it doesn’t really matter whose name is on there. It’s the “Yankees brand” that’s truly influential, whatever that means. In fact, Hal will probably drop off the list, too, once work is complete on the SteinBot 6000, which will put an end to family politics and rule the Yankees in perpetuity.

Oh brother! Hal powers past Hank [NYDN]

Read more posts by Joe DeLessio

Filed Under: baseball, hal steinbrenner, hank steinbrenner, sports, sports business journal, the sports section, yankees

Source: Daily Intel | 16 Dec 2008 | 7:20 pm

I Love Factory Would Love to Get Their Hats on Kate Moss

Christopher Garbushian and Laurel St. Romain

What started as a project designing miniature, hand-sewn headpieces for artsy, fashion-forward friends turned into an entire hat line for design duo Laurel St. Romain and Christopher Garbushian. I Love Factory, the Brooklyn-based label which aims to give the lost art of millinery a rebirth is having its moment in the sun. Gossip Girl featured two of the bespoke hats in a recent episode, and WWD pronounced the pieces the hot accessories to watch. We caught up with the two to talk about their inspiration, Rodarte's tights, and the Cure.

How did you come up with the idea of I Love Factory? What were your inspirations?
Laurel: Ever since I was little, I have loved all things costume-related. I always used to wear ribbons and barrettes in my hair when I was young and noticed a complete dearth of sophisticated headpieces on the market. My inspiration comes from all over the place — from the yellow-brick road of leaves in the Green-Wood Cemetery to the little old trumpet-playing man in the second subway station.

How long does it take you to put a headpiece together from start to finish?
Laurel: Oh gosh, it completely varies. The creative process is so different from the assembly-line process. I would say, from start to finish, my entire Cure playlist!

Fancy a chapeau?Photo: Courtesy of I Love Factory

Is there a signature piece to the collection?
Christopher: They are all signature pieces! However, “The Prospect” particularly stands out. It’s a hand-created flower. The underneath backing is made up of black taffeta with lots of satin, silks, and feathers. We have also sewn on Swarovski crystals in an understated way.

Have you worked with any designers in the past? Do you look to any designers in particular?
Laurel: I was lucky enough to intern with Betsey Johnson, whose aesthetic I love.
Christopher: I particularly admire the avant-garde, London-based milliner Justin Smith. I also love the theatrical and exquisite workmanship of Rodarte, which we aim to emulate, Zac Posen’s collections, and the way Viktor & Rolf make fashion art!

What sort of woman do you envisage wearing I Love Factory headwear?
Laurel: A woman who wants to exude elegance and confidence.

Which current trend do you like right now?
Christopher: Accessories. It’s a trend that has been brought back and blown up. I love all the chunky, bold pieces around at the moment. They can really step up an outfit.

Which trend do you wish would just go away?
Christopher: I am not a fan of the boho-chic look. There are far too many people on the street doing it and more importantly doing it wrong!

Who in an ideal world would you like to wear I Love Factory?
Laurel: Kate Moss — she can pull off anything.
Christopher: Natalie Portman.

Is there any item you are lusting after right now?
Christopher: A pair of Marc Jacobs black military lace-up boots. They are so fresh!
Laurel: The Rodarte tights from fall 2008 in black and white.

What do you think every woman should have in her wardrobe?
Laurel: A pair of heels you can run in and a black eyeliner!

Where do you shop?
Christopher: The Barneys men's store is fabulous — I love their displays. BBlessing on the LES.
Laurel: I window-shop at Opening Ceremony!

What is the one item you can’t live without?
Laurel: Kiehl's baby lip balm.
Christopher: Green and Black 85 percent dark chocolate. I always keep some in my bag!

Read more posts by Davina Catt

Filed Under: Christopher Garbushian, hats, I Love Factory, Laurel St. Romain, Tastemakers

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 7:11 pm

K.I.T.T. Lives to Fight Another Day

If you drew Vulture hero Ben Silverman's name out of a hat for this year's Secret Santa and are having a devil of a time figuring out what to get him, might we suggest the Knight Rider–branded GPS system? Not only will it help ease the sting of the show's untimely cancellation, but now he will have one less excuse for showing up late to the office! [TV by the Numbers]

Read more posts by Mark Graham

Filed Under: Apropos of Nothing, Ben Silverman, Knight Rider, NBC

Source: Vulture | 16 Dec 2008 | 7:10 pm

Tommy Hilfiger and Dee Ocleppo Finally Tie the Knot!

Tommy and Dee

Tommy Hilfiger and Dee Ocleppo were supposed to wed this summer on Hilfiger's home on the island of Mustique, and then host a modest black-and-white ball in the Plaza for 500 friends to celebrate. But the wedding was called off just days before the ceremony. Dee had her dress picked out and everything! But Cathy Horyn learned from Tommy himself that he and Dee tied the knot on Friday night, most likely at his house in Greenwich. Although they hosted celebrities and reporters at their summer engagement party, they kept things a nice tidy secret this time around. Still, we hope they have that reception in the Plaza. Someone may as well have a big "Eff You, Economy!" celebration. And there's no better reason than true love!

Two for the Road [On the Runway/NYT]

Read more posts by Amy Odell

Filed Under: dee ocleppo, tommy hilfiger, weddings

Source: The Cut | 16 Dec 2008 | 6:40 pm

Leo and Kate: Together Again at the "Revolutionary Road" Premiere (Fashion Wire Daily)

Fashion Wire Daily - It was almost as cold as the icy waters around the "Titanic" in Westwood on Monday night as Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet helped launch "Revolutionary Road," their first film collaboration since making that all-time-number-one-grossing movie.

Source: Yahoo! News: Fashion News | 16 Dec 2008 | 6:14 pm

Ford teams with Abrams on 'Glory'

Front Page: McAdams in talks to co-star in news comedy -- Paramount Pictures has set Harrison Ford and is negotiating with Rachel McAdams to star in "Morning Glory," a comedy that will be directed by Roger Michell.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 16 Dec 2008 | 6:05 pm

Cinematographers fete Nolan

Front Page: Filmmaker to receive Board of Governors Award -- Christopher Nolan has been tapped the recipient of the American Society of Cinematographers' Board of Governors Award.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 16 Dec 2008 | 5:51 pm

Oprah Winfrey pacts with HBO

Front Page: Harpo Films to develop series, films for network -- Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Films has entered into an exclusive output pact with HBO to develop and produce scripted series, minis, docs and movies for the pay cabler.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 16 Dec 2008 | 5:51 pm

WATCH: Brandy Says She's 'Human'

Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 5:45 pm

Photos: 'Titanic' stars reunite

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 5:31 pm

Cheech & Chong Get Animated

As the reunited Cheech & Chong's stand-up tour Light Up America fires out nationwide, Big Vision Entertainment said it will produce an animated film featuring the duo with Chambers Bros. Entertainment.

Source: Billboard.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 5:21 pm

Jim Carrey on films, depression and love

Jim Carrey has been making audiences laugh for years, but the star says he's really a "a weird, serious person." He says he's battled depression and loves to do drama as much as the funny stuff. Fans of his lighter side, though, may be glad to see his latest film is a comedy.

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 5:14 pm

Montag, Pratt Take Shots Before Vows

The "Hills" stars downed some liquid motivation before their "secret" wedding.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 5:08 pm

Kanye West Accused of Cheating on 'SNL'

After "SNL," Kanye West is the latest artist accused of faking it on stage.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 4:52 pm

Boss Hog Returns To Live Duty

After an eight-year hiatus, New York band Boss Hog swung into action for a show last week at the All Tomorrow's Parties' Nightmare Before Christmas festival in Somerset, England, and another at New York's Bowery Ballroom tomorrow (Dec. 17). But don't call it a comeback quite yet.

Source: Billboard.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 4:40 pm

More Than 130 Hollywood Actors Against SAG Strike

Delivering a rebuke to the leadership of the Screen Actors Guild, more than 130 actors signed a letter urging their colleagues to reject a strike-authorization vote in January.
Source: FOXNews.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 4:37 pm

Jazz Fest Turns 40 With Star-Packed Bill

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival will celebrate its 40th anniversary this spring with a star-studded lineup featuring Aretha Franklin, Dave Matthews Band, Wilco, James Taylor, Wynton Marsalis, Kings Of Leon, Tony Bennett, the Neville Brothers and Sugarland.

Source: Billboard.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 4:21 pm

Leo Dishes on Love Scenes With Kate

DiCaprio and Winslet talk to Fox at the world premiere of 'Revolutionary Road'
Source: FOXNews.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 4:12 pm

The National Writing For New Album

The National is "pretty far into the process of writing" its next album, which the band will record starting in April in group member Aaron Dessner's new home studio in Brooklyn's Ditmas Park neighborhood.

Source: Billboard.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 3:59 pm

WATCH: Madonna's Concert Tumble

Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 3:39 pm

PHOTOS: Hollywood's Unlikely Matches

Celebrity love matches that make you go hmmmm....
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 2:32 pm

PHOTOS: Hollywood's Priciest Divorces

Madonna coughs up at least $76 million to divorce ex-hubby Guy Ritchie.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 2:30 pm

'Fallout 3' led an action-packed '08 (AP)

AP - It's been another spectacular year for video games, with more than enough compelling adventures to satisfy even the most demanding player. It's been a particularly gratifying year for Xbox 360 owners, who have benefited from a consistent flow of first-rate software from Microsoft and other publishers.

Source: Yahoo! News: Entertainment Reviews | 16 Dec 2008 | 2:27 pm

Exclusive: Hilary Duff 'Absolutely Did Not Say' She Was a Vi

Former tween star talks about lies, sex and lap dancing with Maxim
Source: FOXNews.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 2:21 pm

Paul Anka Forgives Wife For Ice Cube Attack

Paul Anka wants everyone to know that he and his wife, Anna, are cool now, after a fiery dispute last month when she clocked him in the head with an ice cube and got arrested.
Source: FOXNews.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 2:08 pm

New book profiles 'American Lion'

Jon Meacham is quick with a quip when asked why he decided to write a biography of Andrew Jackson. "Any president who tried to attack his own assassin is worth writing about," Meacham says.

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 1:42 pm

His first wedding gig: Ellen DeGeneres' party

He performed at Ellen DeGeneres' wedding this past summer and he's as quick-witted as Adam Sandler. Could Joshua Radin be the next great wedding singer? Maybe not, but Radin hopes to put a little love in your heart with his sophomore album.

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 1:19 pm

FOX411: Gwyneth's Marriage Is OK, Says Mom

You pretty much can't pick up a supermarket tabloid or read a gossip blog without getting this message: Gwyneth Paltrow's marriage to Coldplay's Chris Martin is over. That's it, done, over and out, stick a fork in 'em.
Source: FOXNews.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 1:15 pm

Tom Cruise Taking Risk With`Valkyrie'

Risky Business: Tom Cruise puts himself on the line for Nazi thriller `Valkyrie'
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 16 Dec 2008 | 12:36 pm

Madonna and Guy Ritchie Settle for $76 Million

Madonna's spokeswoman says singer has settled with ex-husband Guy Ritchie for at least 50 $75 million.
Source: FOXNews.com | 16 Dec 2008 | 12:36 pm

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