Read more posts by Mark Graham

Filed Under: john turturro, michael bay, transformers, transformers 2, transformers: revenge of the fallen, wangs

Source: Vulture | 17 Jun 2009 | 9:30 pm

Billy Joel, wife separating

Billy Joel and his wife, Katie Lee Joel, are separating. The two released a joint statement that stated they are splitting up after almost five years of marriage.
Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 9:30 pm

Iranian Protesters Rise Again, in Face of Threats of Execution

The protest heralded this morning in Tehran went off without major violence, according to the New York Times this afternoon. Tens of thousands of silent marchers held photographs of opposition candidate Mir Hussein Mousavi lifted in the air with green (Mousavi's party color) ribbons tied around their wrists, or held up victory signals with their hands. Iranian authorities, in turn, blamed American "interventionist" statements, and continued forcing foreign reporters to stay indoors (not all obeyed). At least one senior official has warned that demonstrators could be executed under Islamic law, reported Reuters. Meanwhile, the AP says Revolutionary Guards warned that bloggers and other website operators could be prosecuted for posting content that could "create tension." Another protest, this one planned nationwide at local mosques, is set to take place tomorrow. Mousavi told supporters to pray for the reported seven protesters so far killed in the demonstrations. This is seen as a direct challenge to the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who ordered Mousavi to restrict his complaints about the election results to the official electoral system.

Read more posts by Chris Rovzar

Filed Under: international intrique, iran, iran protests, tehran

Source: Daily Intel | 17 Jun 2009 | 9:27 pm

Emmys move date back to Sept. 20

Front Page: Telecast bounces back to original date -- Follow the bouncing Primetime Emmy Awards: The kudofest has now been moved back to its original Sept. 20 ceremony date.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 17 Jun 2009 | 9:17 pm

Woody Allen: ‘I’ve Learned Very Little After Annie Hall’

As he told us in his recent New York cover story, Woody Allen wrote the script for Whatever Works in the seventies, with Zero Mostel in mind for the lead, and shelved it after Mostel's death in 1977; last year, he dusted it off in order to finish a movie before the threatened actors' strike. Allen updated its references, but not its main character, Boris Yellnikoff, a bitter, suicidal, genius physicist (played by Larry David) who houses, and eventually begins a romantic relationship with, a dimwitted Southern runaway (Evan Rachel Wood). Last week, Allen and Davis answered reporters' questions at the Regency Hotel. A few highlights, after the jump.

On playing the "Woody Allen role":
David: I know it’s the part that people normally would see him play, but I never considered that I would play him. And nor would he want me to play him. There was only one moment in the movie, I remember I was having trouble with a line, and I said, come on, how do you want me to do it? Just do it, and I’ll do it like you. And so he went, you know, “the Western world … ” And so I did that, the next take, but he didn’t use that one.

Allen: I have to interject. This is not a part that I could have played even if I was younger. Larry is able to do this kind of sardonic, you know, sarcastic, vitriolic, humor, and get away with it. Cause there’s something obviously built into him that audiences like. You know, Groucho Marx had this. They were never offended by Groucho, they were offended if he didn’t insult them, he told me once.

On awards:
Allen: People have always asked me over the years about performances in my movies, and they think I’m being facetious when I say this, but I’m not: I hire great people and I get out of their way. I try not to talk to them as much as possible. They’re not getting that Oscar because I sat them in a room and drilled their character into them and tricked them. Penélope Cruz was great in the Almodóvar film before my film, and Michael Caine was sensational — actually Michael Caine deserved the Academy Award for Educating Rita, the film he did before my film. He didn’t deserve it necessarily for [Hannah and Her Sisters]. And I think they were paying him off.

On accents:
Allen: I didn’t know [Evan Rachel Wood] could do a Southern accent. She said yes, I can do one, but she didn’t want to show me. I heard the accent she was doing [for the first time] when we shot her. There was no rehearsal, I never heard it in conversation. And Ed Begley Jr. didn’t even know that he was supposed to be doing a Southern accent. We were on the set, and I told him, and he was surprised. I got panicky for a moment. Then he said, "Oh okay," and he made some kind of little mental adjustment, and then he was just great.

On dealing with panic attacks:
Allen: You turn on something on television, with me it would probably be a ball game, something that’s calming, there’s no sense of conflict. If I was to turn on a movie, I would be full of self-loathing: I make these movies, and there are so many great ones, and I couldn’t do that.

David: I generally stay with the panic. I embrace the panic. I know there’s no getting out of it, even if I turned on a ballgame. It wouldn’t make any difference to me – I would still hear that sick, psychotic voice going crazy in my head. And there’s nothing I could do.

Allen: It's perfect casting.

On screenplay input:
David: I tried to convince [Woody] at some point before we started shooting that he should change the character’s occupation to a former grandmaster. I didn’t want to be a physicist because I thought I wouldn’t be able to improvise because the character is so much smarter than I. I thought I would be able to improvise a chess champion, yes.

On life in general:
Allen: Life is quite terrible — this is fiction, it can be read as misanthropic, it can be interpreted that way. I think it’s simply realistic. The real world is as horrible, or actually, much more horrible, than the world that Boris envisions. He has compassion, he feels bad about this. But you can’t pick up the paper in the morning without a carload of atrocities — young women are thrown in prison in Korea, some guy enters the Holocaust museum and kills the guard. This is the average stuff we live on every morning. In a sense, the movie is almost mild compared to the ugly brutality that’s just a part of your morning Cornflakes.

On real funny:
Allen: The ones that aren’t authentically funny, you know. Your body knows. You may not be able to articulate it. You may laugh at them and get a certain amount of enjoyment, but when you go to sleep at night, and you wake up at three in the morning, and you’re alone in your bed, you know who’s really funny.

On adapting his movies for Broadway:
Allen: I myself would have no interest in that whatsoever. None. Producers call all the time. They wanted to make Bullets Over Broadway into a musical, and Purple Rose of Cairo into a musical. And they do propose these things. And I don’t care. If they want to, and they made some deal, they can. I have no interest in writing it, seeing it, knowing about it. What would probably happen is they take the rights, and they make it into a musical, and it would be a terrible musical, and everyone would be angry at me.

On New York memories:
David: Well, I grew up in Brooklyn, and then I lived in Hell’s Kitchen from the time that I got out of college until I moved to L.A. in my early forties. I remember very distinctly the smell of urine as I left my front door. I remember having to take my shoe off before I came into my apartment to kill the thousands of roaches that were in my bathtub. I have very fond memories of this. Shall I go on?

Allen: My memories of New York are unrealistic. The New York that I grew up loving was, ironically enough, the New York of Hollywood parties, where people lived in penthouses with white telephones and came home at five in the morning … people popping champagne corks and making witty banter and elevators that open into your apartment directly. I never knew New York as it really existed. For that, you have to speak to Spike Lee or Martin Scorsese.

On improving as a director:
Allen: Well, marginally, I’ve gotten better. Every time you make a movie — I’ve now made about 40 movies — every time you make it is a new and different experience. You learn very little from the past. I’m better than when I made Take the Money and Run, but not much better than when I made Annie Hall. I’ve learned very little after that.

On the temperature of the room:
Allen: It’s freezing
David: Woody’s chilled. Somebody get Woody a jacket.

Read more posts by Lane Brown

Filed Under: chat room, larry david, movies, shclemiels, whatever works, woody allen

Source: Vulture | 17 Jun 2009 | 9:15 pm

Hank Greenberg Was ‘Exaggerating’ About Keeping AIG Employees’ Retirement Funds in Trust

Former AIG chairman Hank Greenberg, who is being sued by the company for relieving a trust he set up for employees of $4.3 billion in company shares after being ousted in 2005, told a court today he had “exaggerated” during a 2000 speech he gave, during which he told top employees their stock would remain in trust for “a couple of hundred years.”

“When I said a couple of hundred years, I’m speaking to a group of people and trying to build their morale,” Greenberg testified today. “It’s a motivating speech. A couple of hundred years is an exaggeration. Anybody ... would recognize that that was simply a figure of speech and not a commitment.”

He was just telling a little white lie! To make them feel better! Hahahahahah no. This is wrong on so many levels. Dude really should have gone with, "I'm an old man! I didn't know what I was doing!"

Greenberg Says He ‘Exaggerated’ on Retirement Plan [Bloomberg]

Read more posts by Jessica Pressler

Filed Under: aig, business, hank greenberg, old men with money, starr foundation

Source: Daily Intel | 17 Jun 2009 | 9:07 pm

The Linguist Who Stores Languages in His Giant Bag

Linguist Abe Haak believes in function over fashion. The day our Video Look Book cameras caught up with him, he wore a cowboy hat he bought at the Minnesota State Fair because he likes to buy clothes that can "take a beating." But he said his cap didn't fit as well here on the East Coast. "I cut about an inch and a half off the brim to make it more city." And his practical attire includes accessories, too. His supersize briefcase is vintage from Deloitte & Touche (yes, the accounting firm). "All the languages that I carry around with me can go in there," he told us. "Plus a computer or two." Watch the Video Look Book for details on his bag of tricks.

Read more posts by Jonah Green

Filed Under: accessories, video, video look book

Source: The Cut | 17 Jun 2009 | 9:00 pm

Billy Joel, Katie Lee Call It Splits

Like his song says, Billy Joel is movin' out...or at least movin' on. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer confirmed today that he and wife Katie Lee have split. "After...

Source: E! Online (US) - Top Stories | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:58 pm

T.R. Knight: Broadway on the Brain

What's next for T.R. Knight? Now that he's hanging up his Grey's Anatomy scrubs, I'm told Mr. Knight is in a New York state of mind. "He wants to get to New...

Source: E! Online (US) - Top Stories | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:50 pm

The Vulture Reading Room Keeps Plugging Along

Have you been following the latest installments of the Vulture Reading Room? If so, awesome! If not, well then, here's another reason for you to jump in on the discussion of Bill Wasik's And Then There’s This: Anil Dash just joined the fray to explain why web memes are more like pop music and less like indie rock, his rationale being that "It's a good thing if lots of people like them." [Vulture Reading Room]

Read more posts by Mark Graham

Filed Under: vulture reading room

Source: Vulture | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:45 pm

Link Party: The Final Result of the David Letterman-Sarah Palin Feud

• This is what came out of the whole Sarah Palin-David Letterman back-and-forth. So was it all worth it? Yeah, maybe a little. • Us Weekly finally broke its seven-week Jon...

Source: E! Online (US) - Top Stories | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:45 pm

The One Where I Hug Heidi and Spencer

This Monday, It's On with Alexa Chung made its MTV debut, along with guests Michael Cera, Jack Black, Soulja Boy, and Me. No, really, I was there at the top of the hour on the "What's Happening" segment, replete with colorful stripes, discussing all the latest non-newsy news stories with Ms. Chung, who has more than proven herself as a funny young host with a string of great shows this week. And, as though wearing a multi-colored striped cardigan on national television wasn't enough, my own excitement levels sprang to NEW GIANT HEIGHTS when Alexa and I were faced with a couple of surprise guests, as Heidi and Spencer Pratt sashayed onto the stage -- I mean "loft" -- with the kind of exuberance not seen since Holly Montag's Junglemance with Sanjaya. And I know I'm going to get worlds and worlds of sh*t for this... but they were actually really.... nice. They gave me a good, solid hug, not a fakey one for TV. I just don't know what to believe anymore, other than that I need to eat Pinkberry and only Pinkberry for the next 2 months straight. Here's video proof that I've met greatness -- it reads like a lost Friends episode:

It's On with Alexa Chung - MTV Shows

They smelled great!! Also, I will be reprising my role on the show both tomorrow and Monday! So make sure to tune into It's On with Alexa Chung tomorrow, June 18, at 12 PM ET (featuring appearances by Ryan Reynolds and Michael Urie), as well as on Monday, June 22, same time same channel!
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:40 pm

Brüno: Gays Ask for Changes

No doubt about it—Sacha Baron Cohen uses every negative gay stereotype you could possibly imagine in his portrayal of Brüno, his Austrian fashion journalist alter...

Source: E! Online (US) - Top Stories | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:40 pm

Tomorrow’s Events and Sales: Ed Westwick Will Host a Dance Party for K-Swiss

EVENTS
TOMORROW
• In the one of the best ideas for a launch party ever, Ed Westwick will host a dance-off in celebration of the new K-Swiss Classic Remastered sneakers. Get there early — the first 50 people to purchase a new pair of kicks will get their photos taken with Chuck Bass himself. Bloomingdale's, 1000 Third Ave., at 59th St., metro level (212-705-2000); 6–8.

• Celebrate the Eileen Shields Shooze and Booze event hosted by the Montmartre boutique in the Upper East Side. Her shoes for Zero + Maria Cornejo will be up to 80 percent off, while other Montmartre stock is 20 percent off. And as the name indicates, liquor will be served. 1157 Madison Ave., nr. 86th St. (212-988-8962); 5–8.

• Personalize your panties and grab a sweet treat with Hanky Panky at Bloomingdale's, 1000 Third Ave., at 59th St., fourth floor (212-705-2000); noon–8..

• Planning for a little one? Stop by the Destination Maternity summer style event for cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery, massages by Edamame Spa, hair tips from Mizu New York, and chances to win prizes. 28 E. 57th St., at Madison Ave. (212-588-0220); 5–7.

SALES
STARTING TOMORROW
• At the Vena Cava sample sale, leather leggings are $400 (originally $900), the text-print chiffon T-shirt dress is $175 (originally $435), and the brocade-and-silk bustier dress is $250 (originally $550). Through 6/20. 33 W. 26th St., nr. Sixth Ave., fifth fl.; Th–F (11–7), S (noon–6).

• Dresses are $25 and tops, pants, shorts, and skirts are $15 at the Cynthia Steffe sample sale. Through 6/19. 550 Seventh Ave., nr. 39th St., tenth fl.; Th–F (10–5).

• Shoes for men, women, and children are 40 to 50 percent off at Classic Kicks. Nike Air Woven shoes are $80 (originally $140) and Vans Slip Ons are $25 (originally $45). Through 6/20. 298 Elizabeth St. nr. Bleecker St. (212-979-9514); Th–S (11–7:30).

• Men’s, women’s, baby, and home items will be up to 80 percent off at Christopher Fischer. Cashmere sweaters are $40 to $150 (originally $195 to $495) and cashmere accessories and scarves are $30 to $95 (originally $195 to $250). Through 6/21. 80 Wooster St., nr. Spring St. (212-965-9009); Th–S (10–7), Su (11–5).

• Get a head start on your fall wardrobe at the rag & bone sample sale. Cashmere sweaters are $99 and under, while leather jackets are yours for under $350. Through 6/20. 100 and 104 Christopher St., nr. Bleecker St. (212-727-2999); Th–S (noon–8).

• Indulge yourself with Diptyque’s candles, perfume, and body washes. Items are 40 to 90 percent off. Through 6/19. 11 E. 26th St., nr. Fifth Ave., Ste. 600 (212-684-3140); Th (9:30–6), F (9:30–4).

ENDING TOMORROW
• Kate Spade handbags, small accessories, apparel, and footwear are discounted at Clothingline. A small selection of men’s bags and small accessories is also available. Through 6/18. 261 W. 36th St., nr. Seventh Ave., second fl. (212-967-4791); M–T (11–7), W–Th (10–7).

• Walter’s spring 2009 dresses, tops, and jackets are up to 75 percent off. Dresses that will last you all summer are $94 to $145 (originally $268 to $368). Through 6/18. 265 West 37th St., nr. Eighth Ave. (212-391-9400); T–W (10–7), Th (10–5).

• Select items from Tracy Reese’s Plenty and Frock! lines are on sale at Redbag. Tops are $115 (originally $275), skirts are $75 (originally $250), and dresses are $125 (originally $320). Through 6/18. 250 W. 39th St., nr. Eighth Ave. (212-398-9300); T–W (8–7), Th (8–2).

• Tees by Fresh Ink are $20 or less at the sample sale. Through 6/18. 264 W. 40th St., nr. Seventh Ave. (212-869-6300); daily (9–7).

• Sport coats, shirts, ties, leather, outerwear, and sweaters are up to 80 percent off at the Isaia menswear sale. Through 6/18. 730 Fifth Ave., nr. 56th St., Ste. 1004 (212-920-1211); T (10–7), W–Th (10–6).

• Save up to 75 percent on Shoshanna apparel and swimwear and 70 percent on Anlo denim at the joint spring sample sale. Through 6/18. 231 W. 39th St., nr. Eighth Ave., Ste. 422 (212-719-3601); W (10–6:30), Th (10–5:30).

Read more posts by Sharon Clott

Filed Under: events, fashion calendar, sales, shopping

Source: The Cut | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:30 pm

Fastest Way To Washboard Abs: Get On The Entertainment Weekly Cover

I'm not doubting that Ryan Reynolds is fit, I'm just saying that no human's abs could possibly look like this in real life, unless he's a He-Man action figure: Or at least, my abs don't. And I run for like, twenty minutes a week. So, yeah. Cover shenanigans. (Just Jared)
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:25 pm

John Edwards Still Not Sure Whether Presidential Run Was Wise

Former presidential candidate and current we-have-no-idea John Edwards recently opened up to the Washington Post in an extended interview. No subject was off-limits — oh, except for his affair with Rielle Hunter, the paternity of Hunter's child, his wife's memoir, and an investigation into misuse of his campaign funds. So basically it was a boring talk about things nobody cares about, like helping the poor. But one thing caught our eye: When asked whether he thought, in retrospect, that running for president was a mistake, Edwards claimed it was a "very complex question." Yep, that's a tough one, all right. On the one hand, if Edwards had won the Democratic nomination — he wasn't going to, but let's pretend — and then word got out that he had a love child with his mistress while his wife battled cancer, it would have guaranteed a victory for his Republican opponent and fundamentally altered the course of the country. On the other hand, Edwards really wanted to be president anyway. So, yeah — complex.

Out of Washington, Edwards Finds Worries Remain [WP]

Read more posts by Dan Amira

Filed Under: campaigns, elizabeth edwards, jerks, john edwards, rielle hunter

Source: Daily Intel | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:20 pm

Fox, iPhone team on 'Family Guy' app

Front Page: Fox Mobile Entertainment nabs deal with Apple -- Homicidal “Family Guy” toddler Stewie is bringing his wicked ways to the iPhone.

Source: Variety.com - Front Page | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:12 pm

‘You Should be VERY Careful About Such Things. People Like to Brag About Their Connections in D.C.’

Some people are touchy about the way you shorten their proper names. For example, Intel Jessicas (both Pressler and Coen) would prefer it if you didn't call them "Jessie." Intel Chris will actually slap you in the gonads if you call him "Topher." And don't even try to call Intel Dan "Danny Boy." ("Amiracle," however, is acceptable. Or simply "Peaches.") But even we were impressed by the lengths to which Elizabeth Becton, a paper-pushing Capitol Hill administrator in the office of Washington Democratic Representative Jim McDermott, went to school on another administrator on the perils of calling her "Liz." From an e-mail exchange, provided (by whom, we wonder?) to Politico.com:

If I wanted you to call me by any other name, I would have offered that to you. I think it's rude when people don't even ask permission and take all sorts of liberties with your name. This is a real sore spot with me ... Sounds like you got played by someone who KNOWS I hate that name and that it's a fast way to TICK me off. Who told you that I go by that name? They are not your friend ... They don't know me and perhaps they were PRETENDING to know me better than they do and pretended that I go by Liz. They did YOU a disservice. In the future, you should be VERY careful about such things. People like to brag about their connections in DC. It's a pasttime for some. It's also dangerous to eavesdrop, as you have just found out.

The entire exchange is fascinating. Also, hopefully, it will remind you that when you want to fire off a testy e-mail to that person in your office who can't bother to take the time to write the "ugh" in "though" and the "anks" in "thanks," you should probably just take a deep breath.

No name-calling [Shenanigans/Politico]

Read more posts by Chris Rovzar

Filed Under: angry secretaries, capitol hill, microdrama, nicknames, office dramedy, office humor

Source: Daily Intel | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:05 pm

Olsen Haus Makes Being Vegan Stylish

When we think of vegan clothes or shoes, we tend to picture shapeless sacks, earthy colors, and Birkenstock-esque footwear. Not exactly the fashion statement one hopes to make. But Olsen Haus is breaking that fussy image with its chic, leather-free shoes. Officially launched in August of last year by Elizabeth Olsen (herself a vegan of two years, veggie for nineteen, and an animal-rights advocate for over twenty), the mission of the line is to offer an alternative to leather and skin shoes that is actually wearable. "I wanted to be the example of stylishness being synonymous with being aware of where your item came from, what it's made of, and its impact on the earth, animals, and people," she says. And she herself was frustrated by the lack of options other vegan lines offered. "Why should something, because it is vegan or earth-friendly, always be in neutral colors, or a loose relaxed fit?" Olsen Haus, a featured designer on FadMashion.com, uses materials like ultrasuede, linen, cork, and synthetics, and the response so far has been overwhelmingly positive, with stores (like Moo Shoes, Funky Lala, and Camilla Boutique) placing new orders. And celeb activists like Emily Deschanel are already counted as fans. The collection of boots (ankle and slouchy), cutout heels, flats, and wedges come in various colors, at price points that average between $140 and $250. Olsen plans to expand into bags shortly, so stay tuned. Meanwhile, check out our favorite looks from her fall collection. All items can be bought at olsenhaus.com, or check the site for retail locations.

Read more posts by Amina Akhtar

Filed Under: animal rights, designers, elizabeth olsen, fadmashion, olsen haus, shoes, slideshow, talent scout, vegan

Source: The Cut | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:05 pm

Judd Apatow Can Probably Leave Adam Sandler’s Old-Man Baby on the Cutting-Room Floor

Judd Apatow's forthcoming cancer comedy Funny People is already being hailed as "really a brilliant film ... it's a James L. Brooks–level thing," but we'll admit that the film's alleged 150-minute running time is giving us the slightest bit of pause. Of course, Apatow is not exactly known for being judicious in the editing bay, so we thought we'd help by suggesting some trims he could make. We're a-okay with leaving the Yo, Teach bits in the final cut, but now that we've seen extended footage of Adam Sandler's turn as an old-man baby in Funny People's movie-within-a-movie, Re-Do, we're fairly confident that this bit could be relegated to the DVD extras. Especially when you consider that it's a mishmash of Big and Little Man, only without any of the laughs. Not having seen the whole film, there's an off chance this bit helps to illustrate the career rut Sandler's character has found himself entrenched in (or something), but we'd like to think that we just helped reduce the running time of the movie by exactly one minute and 31 seconds. You can thank us later, Judd!

'Funny People' Viral Video: The Fake Clip Of 'Re-Do' Starring George Simmons, err, Adam Sandler [Playlist]

Read more posts by Mark Graham

Filed Under: adam sandler, funny people, judd apatow, justin long, movies, old-man babies

Source: Vulture | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:01 pm

Sneak a Peek of Holly Madison in Peepshow!

The Sin City strip is getting a little hotter as Holly Madison joins the cast of Peepshow at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. We've got a sneak peek of her provocative...

Source: E! Online (US) - Top Stories | 17 Jun 2009 | 8:00 pm

Trader Who Punched Andrew Madoff Still Having Trouble Letting It Go

Two former Madoff Securities traders — one being Reed Abend, the poultry aficionado who attacked Bernie's son Andrew outside of an Upper East Side eatery this spring — have filed suits demanding nearly $2 million in deferred compensation from Bernie's sons. [NYDN]

Read more posts by Jessica Pressler

Filed Under: andrew madoff, ballsy crime, bernie madoff, business, made-off, mark madoff, reed abend

Source: Daily Intel | 17 Jun 2009 | 7:50 pm

Jamie Dimon Sends Wad of Cash, No Note, to Government

JPMorgan paid back its share of the TARP money today, "in full, with interest," and probably as a cherry on top they even paid the wire-transfer fee. Unlike certain brown-nosers, CEO Jamie Dimon, who has been vocal about the bank not needing the money in the first place, did not include a note, flowers, or any invitations to his famous barbecues with his check. According to DealBook, the firm's announcement was short and "didn’t include any comment from the firm’s chief," though, to be fair, they can't see inside his office and thus can't have included the gestures the CEO's been making in the general direction of D.C. all morning long. [DealBook/NYT]

Read more posts by Jessica Pressler

Filed Under: business, flipping the bird, jamie dimon, jamie morgan, tarp, white men without money

Source: Daily Intel | 17 Jun 2009 | 7:26 pm

Would You Trust Your Face In the Hands of This Man?

Dear Girl Who Got 56 Small Stars Tattooed to Her Face By Mistake, First of all, a reminder as to what you look like now and forever: You know, it isn't even that bad. Yet, you claim that you asked the tattoo artist for only 3 stars on your face (extremely classy sounding, as far as face-tatts go). But once you laid down in his chair, you "fell asleep", and woke up with no less than 56 STARS on half of your face. And there's the rub -- you now wish to sue this poor, confused artist who transformed your regular old white face into a regular old white face that looks like a Looney Tunes cartoon after someone steps into a shovel. But onto your claim: We will admit that we have a little trouble believing that you fell asleep in a tattoo chair as a needle tap-danced its way along your cheekbones for what must have been a couple of hours. But let's just say that DID happen, you fell asleep, and now you are technically disfigured, albeit in a beautifully unicorny sorta way. See, here is our REAL problem with your story. Our real problem is that you put your face in the hands.... OF THIS MAN: WTF, Tattoo-face girl? WTF?! You should be happy you didn't wake up looking like a Blingee'd Charles Manson. LOOK AT THAT MAN! What uh-the uh-helllllll did you think was going to happen, you FRENCH AND OR BELGIAN IDIOT? Seriously, I hope you are forced to spend the rest of your life wearing cake icing on your face, a la my life inspiration. Oh, and also? Your "Sexy" belt buckle is on the verge of killing itself. Sincerely, Middle School Graduates
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 7:25 pm

Kristen Schaal Just Wants a Cool Corporate Logo

"I'd like to work with NBC; I like that rainbow bird." —Kristen Schaal [PopWatch/EW]

"It is a kind of travelogue. You get some nuggets, you don't get the full bible, though. You get some Genesis. Really, you just get Genesis. Phil Collins, there's some great music. "Abacab." You don't even know that song." —Jack Black on the teachings of Year One [MTV]

"You go to these celebrity parties, and it's a bunch of people who think that just showing up has made it a special event, so it's kind of tedious, and the conversations with celebrities, you just keep repeating the same thing over, 'What are you working on? So, where are you staying? So, where are you going for vacation?'" —Moby on the tedium of celebrity privileges [Spinner]

"I wasn't prepared at all. I'd undone my belt and I had chewing gum in my mouth. I nearly cried during my speech but I thought, 'No, I can't because of the Kate Winslet Golden Globe moment. One British person doing that is enough for one year.'" —Adele on her Grammy speech [Glamour via Yahoo UK]

"I figured out pretty early on that I couldn’t really keep up with the guys. They can just go and go and go, and I can’t. Earlier on, I didn’t quite grasp or accept that, and in a way, they couldn’t either; I felt like I needed to be tough, but now I know my limits. So I drink a lot of ginger tea and make sure I get as much pillow time as I can. I’ll also go to steam rooms. Whatever it takes to feel like a human being." —Karen O on being kind of a wuss on tour [Elle]

"It takes a lot of energy, and I understand you don’t want to spend six months writing a piece about Mary-Louise Parker, so I understand they have to make it interesting. Still, that one made me mad. Also, it’s just ludicrous when I’ve been in the middle of Times Square naked with a snake around my body. It’s not like I was bitter that I did a nude scene, you know? It’s ridiculous." —Mary-Louise Parker is totally fine being naked [AV Club]

Read more posts by Emma Pearse

Filed Under: adele, jack black, karen o, kristen schaal, mary-louise parker, moby, quote machine

Source: Vulture | 17 Jun 2009 | 7:15 pm

Is cheating ever deserved?

Much has been written in the media about men cheating on their wives. We have the tale of two Jo(h)ns: John Edwards, whose wife, Elizabeth Edwards, appeared on "Oprah" recently to promote her new book, "Resilence," in which she addresses her husband's much publicized affair, and Jon Gosselin, costar of the hit TLC reality show "Jon & Kate Plus 8," whose rumored affair has become tabloid fodder.
Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 7:11 pm

'People' magazine's hottest bachelors

Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 7:08 pm

Sting Announces 'Winter' Album For Fall

Summer is just around the corner, but Sting has another season on his mind. The singer announced today (June 17) that his next album, "If On a Winter's Night...," will be inspired by his favorite time of year and feature two original compositions as well as traditional songs, carols and lullabies from the British Isles. The album is slated for release October 27 on Deutsche Grammophon.

Source: Billboard.com | 17 Jun 2009 | 6:51 pm

Sharapova models fashion days before Wimbledon (Reuters)

Reuters - Tennis was the last thing on former champion Maria Sharapova's mind just five days before Wimbledon -- the Russian refused to do anything but pose in the window of a luxury department store Wednesday.
Source: Yahoo! News: Fashion News | 17 Jun 2009 | 6:49 pm

Courtney Love Ready to Re-form Hole

Please note, we said "re-form," not "reunite." NME is reporting that Courtney's next album will be released in late 2009 or early 2010, under the moniker of Hole. However, much like her buddy Billy Corgan's non-reunion of the Smashing Pumpkins, the only former member of the band who will be involved in the project is Melissa auf der Maur, who might be singing backup vocals. [Idolator]

Read more posts by Mark Graham

Filed Under: courtney love, ego trips, hole, music

Source: Vulture | 17 Jun 2009 | 6:45 pm

The Grey’s Anatomy Video Game Is Shockingly Less Watchable Than The Actual Show

The folks at CollegeHumor recently asked me to stop by to play the new Grey's Anatomy video game for Wii, knowing that if there's one thing I love in this world more than the show Grey's Anatomy, it's mind-bogglingly godawful video games based on the show Grey's Anatomy. I subjected myself to hundreds and hundreds of unplayable Nintendo games in my college NES-emulator days, and I have still never seen a game quite this uniquely bewildering, ever:

Watch Bleep Bloop: Greys Anatomy on Wii on CollegeHumor

Thanks to Jeff Rubin and Pat Cassels at CH, and fellow guest Sara Benincasa, for seeking my worthless opinions about stuff. I dare say, this may be the finest Hopper/Rubin collaboration since the universe-altering Sk8boardin' 2K6.
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 6:45 pm

The Only Reason to Have Watched the Real Housewives of New Jersey, in 1:33 seconds

Yesterday, the season finale of The Real Housewives of New Jersey aired, after what seemed like a rousing 4 episode long season. And despite what Bravo touts as its "highest rated season ever", we were left a bit unsatisfied with this Jersey crew. They were just sort of... rich. And uncouth. And boring. Because, really, how many times can you laugh at someone saying "bubbies"? The answer is three times -- by the 45th reference, that (and small foreheads) had lost all sense of joy. So why were we still watching, then? Well, of course, because we just HAD to know what got Teresa so riled up that she FLIPS A TABLE OVER AT A RESTAURANT! And, leave it to the geniuses at Bravo to save that fantastic bit of television history for the very end of the season finale. For those of you that were smart enough not to tune in, a summary: "She of the Shady Past" Danielle was invited to a Housewarming Party -- at a restaurant, obviously -- where we find Teresa talking about how often her husband wants to have sex with her, even post-surgery. Her kids, mind you, are a stones throw away, but no matter. Oh, that and Albie. That sexy son of a bitch. By the way, Teresa may not have any skeletons in her closet, but we can almost guarantee that her husband has some in his meat locker. (CUE THIS SONG) (with thanks to BSideBlog: Teresa 1, Table 0)
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 6:27 pm

'Real Housewives of New Jersey' Season Finale: Food Fight!

The season finale's catfight/train wreck was just as painfully enjoyable to watch as the countless previews made it seem
Source: FOXNews.com | 17 Jun 2009 | 5:56 pm

Chris Brown Trial Delay Denied By California Supreme Court

The California Supreme Court has refused to intervene or delay Chris Brown's preliminary hearing.

Source: Billboard.com | 17 Jun 2009 | 5:39 pm

Ellen Page Achieves Indie-est “Don’t Stop Believing” Cover On The ‘Net

Yes, even Juno's Ellen Page isn't too indie for a good ol' fashioned video cover of Journey's "Don't Stop Believing," the indie-est song that ever indied. I like Ellen Page, and I'm a fan of Alia "Maeby From Arrested Development" Shawkat, but...this is the last one of these ever, right? Please?
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 5:15 pm

Financial drama hits Bollywood

Bollywood's recent financial growth has been as dizzying as the swirling dancers, colorful costumes and pulsating music that typify the industry's films.
Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 5:14 pm

Only Thing Humans Haven’t Done Yet, Done: Drug Dealers Hide Coke In Frozen Sharks

That's it, it's over -- with the news that Mexico's navy uncovered more than one ton of cocaine hidden inside frozen shark carcasses, humans have now done every possible thing there is to do in the world. Can you think of anything else that hasn't been done by humans yet? Three seconds... time's up. See? That's literally everything. For the rest of time, us humans will just have to entertain ourselves by either doing something that's already been done, again, or combining two already-done things. In the meantime, cue the Barenaked Ladies to bring us a statement of now literal truth.
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 5:00 pm

Report: Anna Nicole Judge Larry Seidlin Is Defendant in Swin

The judge who cried a river during the hearing over Anna Nicole Smith's burial is now being sued for allegedly swindling an old lady
Source: FOXNews.com | 17 Jun 2009 | 4:57 pm

BEST WEEK EVER: The Full Episode

All good weeks must come to an end, but BWE's Dan Moschella will hold the 'Best Week Ever' title belt for the rest of 2009. That's an impressive stat considering God won the honor the week before. See who Dan beat out last week on the season finale of Best Week Ever with Paul F. Tompkins, embedded right here: Part 1

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

Parts 2-4 after the jump. Part 2

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

Part 3

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

Part 4

VH1 TV Shows | Music Videos | Celebrity Photos | News & Gossip

Hopefully see you back here in 2010.
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 4:46 pm

Is Kate Gosselin Losing Control?

"Jon & Kate" mom caught by tabloid presumably spanking one of her sextuplets.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 4:42 pm

'Hills' Star Blames Skinny Co-Stars For Making Her Bulimic

Stephanie Pratt says pressure to fit in with her skinny co-stars led her to binge and purge
Source: FOXNews.com | 17 Jun 2009 | 4:38 pm

2 Easy Steps To Looking Like a Raging Alcoholic On Stage

Singer Mike Patton of the US rock band Faith No More recently performed in Berlin as part of the band's European reunion tour. But little did Mike realize that he was actually giving a handy tutorial while on stage -- that of looking like a raging alcoholic in 2 easy steps: STEP 1: Stumble over to the whiskey decanter while on stage, sloppily pouring yourself a glass while stumbling over sideways. Glass half full (as always), throw back a shlook or two while reminiscing about the days when you didn't have to use "protection" with the 15-year-olds who'd show up backstage -- as evidenced in this photo: STEP 2: Make this face: And voila! You are now a bona fide raging alcoholic leads singer of a band guy. Good work, Mike!
Source: Best Week Ever | 17 Jun 2009 | 4:00 pm

Sean Penn No 'Stooge,' To Focus on Marriage

Actor drops out of "Three Stooges," presumably to focus on marriage to Robin.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 2:55 pm

'80s hitmakers call decade 'silly'

While shoulder pads and big hair are no longer part of the Bangles' repertoire, those glorious harmonies remain.The Bangles broke up at the end of the decade, after having hits with "Eternal Flame" and "Walk Like an Egyptian," but re-formed in 2000. They've just started on a new CD.
Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 2:32 pm

As Protests Boycott His Show, Letterman Keeps On Joking

A growing group of online protestors is calling for his resignation — and pledging to boycott all products sold by sponsors of the Late Show until CBS fires the late night host.
Source: FOXNews.com | 17 Jun 2009 | 2:31 pm

Confessions of a movie stuntman

It had never been done before, but as Monte Perlin gunned the engine of his Harley motorbike and prepared to land it in an open boxcar of a moving train, he was strangely calm.
Source: CNN.com - Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 1:33 pm

9 Celebs Falling on Hard Times

Stephen Baldwin, MJ and Victoria Gotti are among stars hit hard by tough times.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 12:18 pm

Calvin Klein Ad Taps Foursome Sex in Ad

New York City ad outrages parents, strikes ho-hum chord with young people.
Source: ABC News: Entertainment | 17 Jun 2009 | 12:02 pm

Black Eyed Peas 'E.N.D.' Up At No. 1 On Billboard 200

Black Eyed Peas' "The E.N.D." bows at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, selling 304,000 -- the hip-pop act's best sales week ever.

Source: Billboard.com | 17 Jun 2009 | 11:03 am

Giorgio Armani to unveil new women's fragrance (Reuters)

Reuters - Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani will unveil his new signature women's fragrance Idole d'Armani next month.
Source: Yahoo! News: Fashion News | 17 Jun 2009 | 10:42 am

The Mind Behind "Mad Men"

Will Sterling Cooper move to L.A.? Are Don and Betty unraveling? Creator Matthew Weiner on what's in store for TV's best show Season Two of TV's hottest show ended with Betty pregnant and Don taking off for L.A. as Cuba took aim at the U.S. So where will Mad Men go next? Creator Matthew Weiner tells Rolling Stone about Season Three and the inspirations behind the show's twists and turns. Plus, check out the rest of the shows hitting the small screen during Cable's Bold Summer. You've talked about how Season Two took place during this bubble of optimism and prosperity — that 1962 was Camelot. And then,...

Source: Rolling Stone: Features | 17 Jun 2009 | 10:17 am

Billy Joel and Wife Separate After Five Years of Marriage

It's the third marriage for Joel, 60, who was first married to his business manager and then to model Christie Brinkley
Source: FOXNews.com | 17 Jun 2009 | 9:54 am