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2017-04-12T00:40:00.001+03:00

Philippines: Four-Peat Placement At The Miss Universe 2013

2013-11-30T22:56:00.000+02:00

Philippines claimed it's fourth placement at the Miss Universe beauty pageant competition. Last 09-NOV-2013, Ms. Ariella Arida, 24 years old from the Philippines proclaimed as the Third Runner Up for this year's competition which was held in Moscow, Russia.

For the last four years, four modern, beautiful Filipinas have left an outstanding impression on the Miss Universe stage.

Maria Venus Raj - MU 2010 Fourth Runner Up
Shamcey Supsup - MU 2011 Third Runner Up
Marie Janine Tugonon - MU 2012 First Runner Up
Ariella Arida - MU 2013 Third Runner Up

Personally, these four ladies are have her own unique beauty and they appeal differently, see side-by-side-by-side-by-side photos of these women during the competition.

Swimsuit Round

Evening Gown Round

National Costume Parade

The big question is, 'Will the Philippines continue to place next year'? It all depends if the country will ever find someone who's got the height body and grace of Venus, the precious smile, charm and likeability of Shamcey, the elegance, wit and intelligence of Janine and the appeal, determination and gutsiness of Ariella.

We'll standby and wait until next year, for the meantime watch and enjoy the video playlist featuring ladies' overall performances during their competition below.

Ariella Arida in Prepares as Miss Universe 2013 Nears

2013-10-19T01:36:00.001+03:00

'It's for the Philippines,' Laguna beauty says

MANILA -- Ariella Arida, the Philippines' candidate to Miss Universe 2013, was overwhelmed with emotions Thursday as she referred to her nearing pageant bid in Russia as a "great responsibility."
The 24-year-old Laguna-born beauty took the stage during a send-off press conference held by Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc., the local license holder of Miss Universe, three days before her departure on Monday.

The 62nd edition of the international pageant, which will gather over 80 candidates, will be held on November 9 at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia.
"This opportunity is a great responsibility that I am facing," an emotional Arida said on Thursday. "I'm not just fighting for myself, but this time, it's for our country."
"So I'm doing everything, I'm doing all my best to meet the expectations of everyone. And I know si God na po ang bahala kung ano ang gusto niyang ibigay sa akin... It's all for the Philippines. I'm sincere, it's for the Philippines," she said.

Since 2010, the Philippines has produced three consecutive runners-up in Miss Universe -- in order, Venus Raj, fourth; Shamcey Supsup, third; and Janine Tugonon, first.
This year, two Filipinas were crowned winners in separate international pageants -- Megan Young as Miss World, and Mutya Datul as Miss Supranational.

Ariella Ara Arida - Miss Philippines 2013 - Stunning New Photos by jo2306
'My biggest strength'
Arida, a chemistry graduate from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, was also emotional as she thanked her parents, Alresito and Estella, for supporting her in her bid to bring pride to her country.
"They didn't expect where I am today," Arida said. "I came from a simple life. I never expected to be this huge. I'm really thankful that who I am right now is part of what they've taught me."
Arida's father, a retired public school sports coordinator and teacher for 44 years, was also a district coordinator for physical education for 20 years. The beauty queen's mother, meanwhile, began teaching in 1972 and has been a school principal since 2005.

Both are flying to Russia for the first time to support their daughter.
Speaking with ABS-CBN News' Dyan Castillejo, Alresito said he never thought his daughter would land this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of representing the Philippines. Estella, noting their family's background, echoed her husband's sentiment.

"Sobrang happy kami, masaya," Alresito said. "Even sa aming panaginip, hindi namin naisip na si Ara ang mapupunta sa pwestong iyan."

"It's unexpected," Estella added, "dahil napakadaming magagandang contestants, ano, sa Binibini, at ang anak namin ang nakasungkit from the small town of Alaminos."

Estella is particularly proud of her daughter's determination to bring home the crown. She noted that Arida went on an indefinite leave from work and invested fully in preparing for the big event next month.

"She is determined. Determined na siya. Naging gutsy na rin, dahil dati mahiyaan. Nag-devote na siya ng time at kinarir na niya talaga itong Binibining Pilipinas. Kinarir niya talaga," she said.
Referring to her parents as her "biggest strength," Arida said in her speech, "My mom and dad, salamat nang marami, para sa support na binibigay nila sa akin."

"Also to my relatives and friends, who never stop believing in me. From the start, they were there. Since the day I decided to join Binibini, they've been very supportive of me," she said.

Since being crowned Miss Universe Philippines in April, Arida has undergone rigorous training, focusing on her physique, walk and question-and-answer performance. She cited these, at the time, to be the areas she hoped to improve on.

Five months later and with only weeks before the coronation night, Arida said she is now focusing her attention on preparing emotionally.

"Hindi mo maiiwasan kung anong pwede mangyari, pero hindi ko siya iniisip eh," she said, referring to the results of the culminating event. "So positive na lang iniisip ko. Mas makaaktulong sa akin."
Part of this focus, Arida emphasized, is claiming the crown, "silently, in my mind."

Referring to herself as her "greatest competitor," Arida said, "It's just myself who will do everything. It's just myself who I can rely on in the competition. If you think positively and if you think you will get the crown, then you know, there's no way that you won't make it."

5 Modern-Day Filipinas Who Excelled In International Beauty Pageants from Year 2010 to 2013

2013-10-08T22:22:00.002+03:00

When Venus Raj clinched 4th Runner-Up honors in the Las Vegas-hosted Miss Universe. The following year saw the Philippines claiming runner-up finishes in both Miss Universe and Miss World (c/o Shamcey Supsup and Gwen Ruais, respectively). And just last year, Janine Tugonon was named 1st Runner-Up to Olivia Culpo, with Stephany Stefanowitz a close 2nd in Miss Earth and Rizzini Gomez pulling a Miss Tourism International.

More than a week back, we finally bagged the Miss World crown via Megan Young, with the Mutya Datul victory in Miss Supranational adding more spice to a 2013 looking more optimistic than ever. And let’s not forget that this year’s editions of Miss Universe, Miss Earth and Miss International are still upcoming.

Are we looking at another Golden Age while establishing the Pageant Powerhouse status of the Philippines? Will the winning streak run till 2015? Or will it even go beyond that? I say yes. For sure, the element of luck will still come into play. But with the diligent training and preparations being given to our carefully-chosen representatives, there’s no reason to slide back and be relegated to anonymity anymore.

5 Modern-Day Filipinas Who Excelled In... by jo2306
Things are definitely looking up. There’s no room for resting on our laurels. It’s full steam ahead for the Philippines!

Adele Calls X Factor's Ella Henderson 'Absolutely Incredible'Songbird

2012-10-15T01:25:00.001+03:00

tweets support to contestant

The 'Someone Like You' singer, who previously backed Rebecca Ferguson back in 2010, called the 16-year-old "incredible" in a Twitter shout-out during the show yesterday (October 13).

She wrote: "Ella Henderson on X Factor is absolutely incredible! I LOVE her!! Good luck xx" But Ella, who has over 200,000 followers on Twitter, has been having plenty of celebrity support. Last night she retweeted praise from Made In Chelsea's Millie Mackintosh, Andy Merry from The Risk, Big Brother's Luke Scrase and former X Factor singer Lloyd Daniels. She wrote: "Thank u everyone for the support last night! It really put a smile on my face! U guys are the best! #lyrics #TeamElla" Ella is considered 200/1 outsider to be eliminated tonight, and remains the clear frontrunner to win the show.

Relive her breathtaking performances below.

Darius Campbell wins Popstar To Operastar

2012-10-13T18:35:00.002+03:00

POP singer Darius Campbell won ITV's Popstar to Operastar contest, beating Bernie Nolan of the Nolan Sisters in a close contest.
Nolan hugged Campbell to congratulate him on his win last night and he said: "I've had a ball, it's been a privilege, I've enjoyed every minute of it, I'm going to carry on with opera."
Then Campbell repeated his performance of Non Piu Andrai from the Marriage of Figaro by Mozart and called out his thanks to the viewers.
After his first rendering of that song earlier in the evening, panel member Welsh mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins told him: "It was your usual standard, brilliant."
Designer and critic Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, another panel member, told him: "I think that was you back in form. That was a very cheeky, very sexy, very Darius performance."
Nolan performed Les Filles de Cadix by Delibes and Llewellyn-Bowen told her: "I thought that was absolutely wonderful, I think you are bringing a new audience to opera."
Former Pop Idol contestant Campbell also performed a duet with another panel member, the tenor Rolando Villazon, while Nolan and Jenkins sang Somewhere from West Side Story, prompting the fourth panel member, rock star Meat Loaf, to declare: "Bernie just rocked! Unbelievable!"
Campbell, Nolan, Villazon and Jenkins joined together to sing Brindisi by Verdi from the opera La Traviata.

X-Factor USA 2012 - Judge's Homes Performances Recap

2012-10-13T18:31:00.000+03:00

No introduction. No time.

All sorts of things went down on Wednesday night's "X Factor" so lets get into it right away, starting with who made the top 24 and were shipped off to the judges' houses round.

Below the Top 24 is the recap of the "young adults" and "groups" categories who performed on this episode as well.

TEENS Mentored by Britney Spears
• Beatrice Miller: Let's go, Jersey Girl! Maplewood native Beatrice, the soulful little 13-year-old was a judges' favorite despite being boring during boot camp.
• James Tanner: We haven't seen much of this kid. I think he raps and sings? I guess we'll find out together...
• Carly Rose Sonenclar: No surprise here. Carly's audition was phenomenal, she was awesome in boot camp and is a front runner to go very far in this competition. She is one to watch, as Simon would say. • Diamond White: Again, no shocker. Diamond might be better than Carly. Her version on "I Have Nothing" in boot camp was killer and she has the look, the swagger and she is only 13. Another contender for sure.
• Reed Deming: This is a "we want the young audience right now" move. The kid has the Justin Bieber thing going, has a pretty good voice and might do well, but he is not a superstar.
• Arin Ray: Good thing they said Arin's name. My remote may have went flying. A strong contestant last year, Arin has stepped up his game this season as a solo artist and I look forward to seeing more of him. He is a real talent.

YOUNG ADULTS (17-24 years old) Mentored by Demi Lovato
• CeCe Frey: First in this group is fiesty CeCe, who despite her attitude, which I am still convinced is largely a product of editing, has a very strong voice and deserves the spot. Her rendition of "I Will Always Love You" in boot camp was top-notch.
• Willie Jones: Not sure how I feel about this one. The judges see more in him that I do. I have to agree with Britney Spears that his natural singing voice just isn't that strong. Maybe he just hasn't found his niche yet. We'll see how he does. • Jennel Garcia: The sexy, little Latina rocker chick made it through. She's another from this age category who has shined and absolutely deserves a spot. If she keeps choosing the right songs, she can go a long way.
• Nick Youngerman: WHAT? HOW? WHY? The kid who rapped Vanilla Ice in his audition and forgot his words in boot camp is going through? I did not see this one coming. I assumed he was going back to clean toilets ... WOW.
• Paige Thomas: Anyone who watches enough reality TV saw this coming. The rivalry between Paige and CeCe has been front-and-center so far this season and will continue full-force. Paige deserves it, I guess. She has a good look and a pretty good voice. I'm still Team CeCe though.
• Jillian Jensen: And last but not least is the sentimental favorite, Jillian. I can't lie, I smiled pretty wide when they said her name and beyond all the crying, weeping, sobbing, wailing and running mascara, Jillian does have a strong, raspy voice. Good for you, Jillian! Screw those bullies! OVER 25's Mentored by L.A. Reid
• Jason Brock: Yes, he's flamboyant and a little too over-the-top sometimes, but Jason does have an awesome voice. Not sure if America will go for him if he gets that far, but he has proven he deserves some more attention.
• Daryl Black: Oh, yeah. I forgot about Daryl, who L.A. Reid called the next Nat King Cole in auditions. Daryl got little airtime if any in the boot camp episodes, but his audition was fantastic. I look forward to hearing him again.
• David Correy: No surprise here for the Brazilian Bruno Mars. Yes, I am the only one calling him that right now, but it might catch on! Anyway, David has been very strong this whole time, is likable, his higher register is very powerful and should do well going forward. • Tara Simon: Ugh. I knew this was coming. Tara, who by no means deserves to be kept is just one of those feather-rufflers the judges keep around to be a spark plug — in a bad way. Tara has over-sung every song, almost screwed Jennel and I hope she crashes quickly.
• Tate Stevens: Good for Tate, his rosy cheeks and his cowboy hat. Tate is by far the best country singer on the show and adds some diversity to group. Even if you're not a country fan (like me), you can't deny his voice and his passion.
• Vino Alan: Great choice in keeping Vino around. His tones are so unlike anyone else in the competition and he is definitely unlike anyone else. Another plus: Now Vino doesn't have to beat Simon to death on network television.

NOTE: Definitely bummed that Jeffrey Gutt didn't make it through. He seemed a bit dull in boot camp but his audition was freaking amazing. Too bad.

GROUPS Mentored by Simon Cowell
• Sister C: They have annoyed me a little throughout this whole process. Not sure how they will do.
• Dope Crisis: Who? I don't think I've seen them once...
• Emblem3: The only group with any real pizzazz in this competition. I assume they'll make it to the live shows. How could they not?
• Playback: A bunch of guys thrown together by the judges, including Johnny Maxwell and Austin Camini.
• Lylas: A bunch of girls thrown together including Ally Brooke and Dinah Jane Hansen.
• Lyric 145: A rap group made up of Lyric Da Queen and 145.

----------- JUDGES HOUSE PERFORMANCES:

YOUNG ADULTS
Jennel Garcia: She sang "I Kissed a Girl" by Katy Perry and it was good, but not as good as before. It was a little too subdued considering the content of the song and Jennel works better with a whole stage to move around, not just Demi's living room.
Willie Jones: Gutsy move by Willie re-singing "Nobody Knows," the song that he flubbed in boot camp. It wasn't mind-blowing but it wasn't bad. He still hasn't sold me. At least he remembered the words this time.
Jillian Jensen: She gave a great rendition of "Gravity" by Sara Bareilles and cemented herself as one of the top acts in this group. Very strong voice that is even stronger when she's not crying. And Demi loves her like a sister.
Nick Youngerman: He rapped "Tik Tok" by Kesha. No, I will not spell it with the dollar sign. And I still don't buy Nick as a serious act. I would like him better at karaoke night after a few drinks.
Paige Thomas: She killed an acoustic version of "Turn Up the Music" by Chris Brown. Demi didn't like it, but she was awesome. I'm afraid she is too similar to other artists, though.
CeCe Frey: CeCe sang an almost jazzy version of "I'm Sexy and I Know it" by LMFAO and honestly, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Out of the six in her group she has by far the strongest belting voice and this showcased her ability to pull it back a little. I cannot see Demi cutting her.

GROUPS:
Playback: Oh jeez, I can hear the girls screaming already. This thrown-together, cutesy boy band was actually really polished in their version of "Rich Girl" and might actually have a chance at success this season. Simon loved them.
Emblem3: Singing "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic," this trio of California guys warmed my heart. They are not the greatest singers in the world, but I can hear them on the radio and they have a style all their own. The guy without his shirt came in late on a verse, but who cares? Oh yeah ... Simon does.
Sister C: I've more or less hated this group from the get-go, but they were much better in this audition, singing some country song I didn't recognize. This is probably a bad sign, but they are much, much better when they aren't singing together. The tall, blonde girl has a very strong voice. And it doesn't hurt that they are all beautiful.
Lyric 145: This was a match made in hip-hop heaven. This rap duo and solo artist turned group was on fire in their version of Miley Cyrus's "Party in the USA." Yes, they rapped Miley and it was very cool. Great chemistry right off the bat.
Dope Crisis: A cool mix of rap and singing on Nicki Minaj's "Superbass." Not sure if they stand out quite enough.
Lylas: Oh, the patchwork girl group. It didn't work last year and even though I loved a few of these girls as solo artists, I'm not sure they are going to work as a group. They're rendition of "Impossible" was largely five individual performances mashed together. Not bad, though. Simon thought it was "unbelievable." I need to see another performance.

They can't vote, but they sure can sing. Both the teen and over-25 groups sang Thursday night in the judges' houses round on "X Factor" and the half-dozen 13 to 17-year-olds really put on a show for Britney Spears, while L.A. Reid's group left their judge wanting more. On Wednesday, the judges have to narrow down their respective groups from six to four, rounding out the top 16 who will move on to the live shows. Both Britney and L.A. have some tough decisions, but for the pop queen, her losses will be much greater.

OVER 25's PERFORMANCES Mentored by L.A. Reid and special guest Justin Bieber Jason Brock:

I have enjoyed Jason's general vibe so far, but his rendition of Fergie's "Big Girls Don't Cry" was little too whiny. The extra-slow rendition coupled with his high tones just didn't quite work. Not sure America would vote for him with his flamboyancy and all.

David Correy: Singing Jessie J's "Domino," David sounded great, but his vocal tricks are a little too over the top sometimes. The performance was definitely heartfelt, but on occasion he seems to force the emotion. Also, I cannot stand all of these ridiculously slowed down versions of pop songs that everyone is singing. A little tempo, please!
Daryl Black: OK, "X Factor" clearly doesn't care much about Daryl. They didn't even show his whole performance. For the few seconds the did show, he seemed pretty good. Smooth voice. L.A. wasn't crazy about it.
Tate Stevens: Did the dude in the cowboy hat just sing Brian McKnight? I think he did. And it wasn't terrible, but it wasn't great either. Tate has a strong, country voice and I think it will get him to the live shows, but this was the wrong song choice. L.A. was digging the song, though.
Vino Alan: Killer. Great rendition of Pink's "Sober." Vino's voice is extremely powerful, soulful and sounds like no one else. His look is tough with all the tattoos on his head, but his talent is undeniable. Justin Bieber was feeling it. If there was a winner from the over 25's based on these auditions, it would be Vino.
Tara Simon: I didn't think I could hate "The Reason" by Hoobastank anymore that I already do. But Tara, the lone female in this category, helped me out. The diva continued her over-the-top style and butchered the song, belting far too much. Awful.

NOTES: If was a betting man, I'd say that Daryl and Tara will be the ones to hit the road on Wednesday. L.A. really wasn't into Daryl's performance and Tara is just awful. I'd say that Vino and Tate are locks to make it through, but who knows.

TEENS PERFORMANCES Mentored by Britney Spears and special guest will.i.am

• Diamond White: It's no secret at this point that Diamond is a complete beast. Her version of Avril Lavigne's "I'm With You" only solidified her status as one of the top dogs remaining. Her range for a 13-year-old is fantastic. will.i.am wasn't crazy about it.
• Reed Deming: Whoa, I underestimated this kid. His heartfelt rendition of "Hey There, Delilah" was much better than I remember him being. Britney thought he didn't deliver quite enough. I have to disagree. That was great.
• James Tanner: I didn't remember James Tanner before this performance and I probably won't after. Turns out he is a rapper and his uninspired version of "Party Like a Rockstar" was no more than decent.
• Arin Ray: This guy has got to make it through to the live shows. Singing an acoustic (what else?) rendition of Nicki Minaj's "Starships," Arin's tones were right on-point. He has the look and the moves. Strong performance.
• Beatrice Miller: Maplewood native Beatrice was a mess before hitting the mini stage, crying and ready to puke. Apparently her nerves went away in a matter of seconds, because once she started singing, the Jersey girl gave a great, bluesy performance of "Bulletproof" by David Guetta. The best she has sounded in this competition.
• Carly Rose Sonenclar Carly has been the golden child of the competition so far — getting a lot of airtime. Honestly, I was rooting for her to fall a little, but her version of "Brokenhearted" by Karmin was sensational. Her voice is undoubtedly the most polished of this group. They saved the best for last with her. will.i.am called her a dragon. I think that's a good thing.

NOTES: After this showing, James Tanner is a definite goner, but the other elimination could go in any direction. I would say that Arin and Carly are definitely in, but the other four are all very close. Nothing will surprise me.

Pan-Asian Girl Group Blush Debuts With Hit Single "Undivided"

2011-07-23T04:33:00.005+03:00

There's a new girl group in town, and they want to take over the world! The Pan-Asian girl group Blush debuted recently with hit single "Undivided," featuring Snoop Dogg. In three short weeks, they've reached #25 on the US Billboard Dance Chart, and they appeared on "So You Think You Can Dance" this week.

Blush consists of five talented ladies: Ji Hae from Korea, Natsuko from Japan, Victoria from Hong Kong, Angeli from the Philippines, and Alisha from India. Ji Hae participated on "Superstar K" and landed in the top 30, despite not having any formal vocal or dance training. Check out their live performance of "Undivided" in So You Think You Can Dance, USA below.

Blush Ft. Snoop Dog- Undivided - Live Performance by jo2306

Dynamo: Magician Impossible

2011-07-16T23:54:00.000+03:00

In a truly jaw-dropping stunt this weekend, Dynamo stunned onlookers as he walked across the river Thames in London. That's right - the British illusionist performed the impossible and actually walked on water in front of a crowd of enthralled spectators at Westminster Bridge in the capital. And they'll be plenty more astounding feats and mind-bending tricks in Dynamo: Magician Impossible, new and exclusive to Watch, starting Thursday 7th July.

Tipped as the most exciting British magician to emerge in decades and with a list of celebrity fans that reads like a 'who's who' of the Hollywood elite, Dynamo: Magician Impossible is the story of an ordinary boy from Bradford living an extraordinary life. Like his dear grandfather before him, Dynamo grew up practicing precision card-handling and developing powerful magical skills.

The series sees the 28-year-old travelling the globe as the unassuming anti-hero who just happens to astound everyone he meets, whether it's an international footballer or Hollywood actor.

Dynamo - Magician Impossible Episode 1 by jo2306
In episode one, Dynamo performs his spectacular matrix style levitation, physically moves a girl's tan line on the glamorous Miami Beach and performs magic with Manchester rock legend Ian Brown.

Other highlights in this mind blowing series include; transporting a mobile phone into a glass beer bottle, magically transforming snow into diamonds in the Austrian mountains and bringing a flutter of butterflies to life in Hollywood's famous Chateau Marmont.

Throughout the series, Dynamo: Magician Impossible will take viewers on his magical journey before stunning them with incredible, headline-grabbing stunts beyond the realms of possibility.

"Absolutely stunning" Will Smith
"The greatest magic I've ever seen" Chris Martin (Coldplay)

Teen Wolf, An Exciting New Series from MTV

2011-07-14T22:28:00.005+03:00

Teen Wolf is an American television series that currently airs on MTV. The series premiered on June 5, 2011, following the 2011 MTV Movie Awards. Teen Wolf is a supernatural drama series that follows Scott McCall (Tyler Posey), a high school student and social outcast that gets bitten by a werewolf while wandering in the woods. Scott attempts to maintain a normal life, while hiding from everyone his secret life as a werewolf with the exception of his best friend Stiles Stilinski (Dylan O'Brien) who helps him through this change in his life and body and another mysterious werewolf, Derek Hale (Tyler Hoechlin.

The series has received a mixed response from critics, earning a score of 61 out of 100 on review site Metacritic. The show's premiere drew in a total of 2.18 million viewers. The show has been renewed for a second season.

American daily ‘New York Post’ has hailed this TV drama series as “the best new teen/adult crossover series since Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, while US magazine ‘Entertainment Weekly’ praised it for being “good fun, well-written, and well-acted”.

Teen Wolf - Trailer / Bande-Annonce de 3... by Lyricis
And that new show is none other than Teen Wolf, new TV drama series Teen Wolf will take fans from across the region to the wild side with a brand new werewolf-human romance adventure with lots of bite.

Beginning on Sunday, 17 July at 9pm on AXN Beyond, Teen Wolf will also be simulcast on AXN and Animax in a premiere event. Subsequent episodes broadcast exclusively on AXN Beyond on Mondays at 9pm, which will be the show’s regular broadcast day and time, starting from 18 July.

Teen Wolf comes to viewers in the region in just over a month after its premiere in the U.S. Inspired by the 80s comedic movie of the same title starring Michael J. Fox, Teen Wolf has been given a contemporary spin and completely re-imagined into an edgy, action-packed and thrilling TV series.

Teen Wolf stars Tyler Posey (Lincoln Heights, Brothers and Sisters) as Scott McCall, an unnoticed outsider yearning to be recognized in some small way to take him out of his typical state of high school anonymity. When his best friend, Stiles Stilinski (Dylan O’Brien, High Road), convinces him to go into the woods one night to join a police search for a dead body, Scott encounters a creature in the darkness. Narrowly surviving its attack with a vicious bite to his side, Scott awakes the next day to strange surprises and his life is never the same again.

Teen Wolf - Romantic Scene - Date In The Forest - The most popular videos are a click away

Acquiring superhuman wolf-like abilities, Scott now hears things he should not be able to hear, sees with startling accuracy, and moves with incredible reflexes. Usually a bench warmer, Scott with his newfound powers, becomes a first team player for the school lacrosse team, outdoing even the top player Jackson Whittemore, played by actor-model Colton Haynes (The Gates). Sparking the interest of Lydia Martin (Holland Roden, Lost) the most popular girl in school, Scott falls instead for Allison Argent, the mysterious new girl in town played by Crystal Reed (Skyline).

Not only does Scott have to suppress his wolfish instincts and urges, he has to contend with other werewolves, including Derek Hale (Tyler Hoechlin, Road to Perdition, 7th Heaven), the more experienced and dangerous werewolf thought to be responsible for the life-changing bite. And as the story unfolds, Scott will have to fight a family of werewolf hunters, the leader who turns out to be Allison’s father…

Teen Wolf - Funny Scene - Am I Not Attracted to Gay Guys? - The funniest videos are a click away

With a forbidden romance set against the drama of high school life, Teen Wolf follows a dark, riveting plot and delves into themes of self-discovery, struggles and angst among its teenage characters coming into their own. Topped by an attractive, young and fresh-faced cast line-up, Teen Wolf has all the makings of the next big TV series in the massively popular supernatural action-romance genre.

Helmed by Australian director Russell Mulcahy (Highlander) and executive produced by Jeff Davis, creator of the original Teen Wolf movie in 1985, the TV series is proving to be a ratings hit on cable television in the US. Spot on for its target teen and young adult audiences, Teen Wolf’s premiere drew some 2.18 million viewers. In its fourth week, the series recorded a 23 per cent growth in its 12 – 34 year old audiences and was the top-rated show in its timeslot among women of the same demographic group.

With all the ingredients of a hit show coming together in a fresh and sexy thriller of the supernatural kind, viewers can expect a wild and exciting good time with Teen Wolf, howling this July only on AXN Beyond.

Akai Osei wins Got To Dance!

2010-02-16T23:45:00.003+02:00

The biggest national dance competition to ever hit UK TV screens concluded in a nail-biting 90 minute live final on Sky1 HD this Sunday. The ultimate dance off saw six talented dance acts compete against each other to win a life changing cash prize of £100k. It was ten year old street dancer Akai Osei who won over the public and claimed the title of Got To Dance champion 2010.

Ten year old Akai, who has only been dancing for year, wowed the viewers and judges alike with a set of sophisticated moves, including head spins, body popping and backsliding. The audience gave him standing ovations and the judges awarded him three gold stars following both of his performances.

On his win, Akai said, “I can’t believe it, this is amazing. It’s been the best night of my life, I don’t know what I’ll do with the prize money yet, but I definitely want to give some to charity. I haven’t decided which one yet.”

Our Got To Dance judging panel comprises of Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt, Diversity Leader Ashley Banjo and West End star and movie actor Adam Garcia, who said of Akai’s victory:

Ashley Banjo:

“Firstly, he and his family should be so proud. He sums up this competition, he’s not professional, has only been dancing for a year and is only 10 years old and has just got to dance and he beats me hands down!”

Kimberly Wyatt:

“I’m so proud of Akai, he has been on point to the max and I have so much respect for him. I love his confidence. Amazing!”

Adam Garcia:

“He has incredible stage presence and is just born to dance. I’ve always loved what he does, everyone loves what he does. Just incredible.”

Host Davina McCall commented:

“I am so thrilled for Akai, but glad the viewers voted, I couldn’t have picked a winner, all of the finalists are amazing, they have put in such hard work. I’m going to get Akai to teach me some moves now.”

Got To Dance scoured the UK and Ireland, visiting 14 cities and covering thousands of miles to seek out the best dance crews, troupes and solo dancers of all style and ages. From thousands of applicants, almost 100 dancers aged from 4 to 82 auditioned in front of a live audience and the Got To Dance judging panel. The panel then narrowed these acts down to the Final 18 who performed in a series of live semi-final shows competing for the viewers’ votes to go through to Sunday 14 February’s live final.

Acts who competed in the final against Akai were:

Jukebox Juniors, a junior Cardiff based dance troupe, Matthew Koon, a 16 year old contemporary dancer, Glaswegian junior ballet group The Box, ten year old Perthshire contemporary dancer Emily Crow and MJ Latin, a Latin American style dance group from Preston.

Charlie Bruce wins So You Think You Can Dance final

2010-02-16T23:40:00.002+02:00

So You Think You Can Dance, the BBC's hunt for the UK's best dancer, has been won by 19-year-old Charlie Bruce.

Charlie, from Leicester, won £100,000 and the opportunity to perform on the US version of the show.

She faced competition from just two other finalists, Lizzie Gough and Tommy Franzen, after Robbie White was forced to pull out with a dislocated shoulder.

The final of the BBC One show also featured a live performance by Robbie Williams on his 36th birthday.

Williams, who sang the official Sport Relief single Morning Sun, could not resist showing off some of his own dance moves.

Afterwards, he told the show's host Cat Deeley: "I thought it was a chance to do a medley of all my dance routines."

The final saw each of the contestants perform six routines. In the absence of the injured Robbie White, former contestants who had been voted off in earlier weeks returned for routines in which they were partnered with the competing finalists.

The winner burst into tears when Deeley revealed she had won the most votes from the public and said she would "never forget" the experience.

The teenager said she was "absolutely speechless" at her success and, fighting back tears, added: "Thank you so much. I did it."

Tommy was voted into second place and Lizzie came third.

Arlene Phillips, who joined the show's judging panel following her controversial departure from Strictly Come Dancing, told Charlie: "You have just changed through the night and grown through the series. What you have done tonight is mega, honey, mega."

Fellow judge Nigel Lythgoe praised Charlie's "journey" and said the teenager "grew" throughout the series. He said her trip to Hollywood to perform on the US version of the show was the "chance of a lifetime".

Although So You Think You Can Dance was on its first series for the BBC, its US equivalent - also hosted by Deeley - is hugely successful with viewing figures of 20 million and is about to start a seventh series.

Strictly Come Dancing: Chris Hollins beats Ricky Whittle

2009-12-21T19:26:00.002+02:00

Strictly Come Dancing reached its climax last night as Chris Hollins beat favourite Ricky Whittle. The Telegraph's fashion director Hilary Alexander gives her verdict on the showdown.

It was billed as The Hunk v. The Hobbit, the David and Goliath ballroom battle which would decide the winner of the Strictly Come Dancing title for 2009.

In the end, the result was biblical.

The Glitter Ball trophy went to team "C-Ola", as the perky BBC presenter, Chris Hollins, and his partner Ola Jordan, have become known.

The couple won over the viewers with their combination of crowd-pleasing cheekiness, fun, enthusiasm and good old-fashioned entertainment.

In the first half of the show, Hollins had prophetically quipped: "We might be the underdogs, but every dog has its day."

He and Ola may not have had the sensual polish, the finesse and the fitness of close rivals, Ricky Whittle, the Hollyoaks star, and his partner, Natalie Lowe.

But by the rip-roaring, "sexy swimming" finale to their Charleston, Team C-Ola had the studio audience – and, obviously, the viewers at home – eating out of their hands.

The judges heaped adjective upon superlative to praise the four dances each couple performed. Bruno Tonioli called Chris and Ola's Charleston "a Strictly Come Dancing classic".

Len Goodman pronounced Ricky and Natalie's quickstep "Strictly history". Craig Revel Horwood coined the word "lift-tastic" to describe Ricky's spectacular series of one-arm and two-arm flying lifts in the couple's "show dance".

I had started off this series – 14 weeks, 654 hours of training per couple and 17 dances ago – hoping Ricky would win. But by last night's final, I discovered I really didn't mind who got to grasp the "Glitter Ball". Both couples were fantastic. It's we, the viewers, who are the real winners in this show.

But what a week! Losing 'Wake Up to Wogan' was bad enough. We now have to face up to nine months of Saturday nights without a 'Strictly' fix.

The only thing we, perhaps, have to look forward to, is Ricky's promise to wear a thong if he got into the final.

Could that happen in a Strictly Christmas special? Now that just might make Ola and Natalie's costumes look a little over-dressed.

Natalie White wins 'Survivor: Samoa,' beats Russell Hantz, Mick Trimming

2009-12-21T13:40:00.005+02:00

Natalie White's strategy of riding Russell Hantz's coattails and not playing too aggressively paid off.

The 26-year-old pharmaceutical sales representative from Van Buren, AR claimed Survivor: Samoa's $1 million grand prize during the live portion of last night's finale broadcast from CBS Television Studio in Hollywood, CA.

"It's about having no regrets. You've got to take a big risk to get a big return," said Natalie after her victory was revealed.

"I had to quit my job to do it. So I gave up a wonderful job -- not just a wonderful job, but one that I loved so much... There was a lot at risk for me."

Natalie defeated Russell Hantz, a 36-year-old oil company owner from Dayton, TX, and Mick Trimming, a 33-year-old doctor from Boise, ID who currently resides in Los Angeles, CA, by receiving five of the first seven jury votes Survivor host Jeff Probst revealed. Russell received the other two jury votes that were disclosed. Jeff did not reveal the remaining eighth and ninth votes, which were presumably also for Natalie.

"Her key move in the game was aligning with me," said Russell after Natalie had previously stated her "key move" as orchestrating Erik Cardona's blindside after the merge.

"Okay, maybe I had two key moves then," replied Natalie.

Survivor: Samoa's finale broadcast began on Day 37 at the merged Aiga camp following the elimination of Shannon "Shambo" Waters -- who was ousted when Brett Clouser, a 23-year-old T-shirt designer from Salem, OR who currently resides in Los Angeles, CA, won Individual Immunity for the second consecutive time and staved off certain elimination.

Mick and Jaison Robinson, a 28-year-old law student from Chicago, IL, discussed the possibility of Brett winning Immunity again and immediately targeted Natalie if that were to happen.

"I think Russell will have a hard time voting her off," said Mick to Jaison.

"I think Russell will have an easier time doing a lot of things than you think," replied Jaison.

However they both agreed that Brett would be first, as Jaison was worried the only remaining Galu member could go on an "Immunity run." Russell was aware that Natalie's neck was on the line if Brett won Immunity again.

"You know what's going to happen if he wins the next one? I ain't going to be able to save you," Russell told Natalie.

"Why would I be next?" asked Natalie.

"Because the three guys stay to beat [Brett] in that last challenge," replied Russell.

"Well, that sucks," she said.

"Well we've just got to win," he said.

Natalie then asked point blank if she'd be going home if Brett won the next Immunity Challenge.

"Probably so," answered Russell.

In a confessional, Natalie said her strategy entering the competition was to "play the underdog," "be underestimated" and "just kind of slide through."

"Which I've done. And it's gotten me this far," she added.

The five castaways then arrived for the Immunity Challenge, and before Jeff explained the rules he asked Russell if it was the remaining four Foa Foa against Brett.

"Yes it is. That's what it is," answered Russell.

"It's an individual competition, so it's definitely a motivator," said Brett.

Each castaway would race across a series of obstacles and grab a bag of puzzle pieces before racing back. They then had to climb a steep wall to a platform and use the pieces to solve a puzzle. First person to get it right would win Immunity.

The challenge commenced, and while Russell was able to grab an early lead Brett's puzzle-solving skills helped him in the end and he won Immunity for the third consecutive time.

"To finally see a Foa Foa member go home will be relieving," said Brett in a confessional.

Natalie said she "definitely felt" like her head was on the chopping block. At camp, she talked to Russell

"I'm going to change it," he said.

"Promise me?" she asked.

"I promise you," he said.

Russell then revealed in a confessional why he wanted to keep Natalie around.

"I'm trying to keep Natalie because she's holding onto my coattails," he explained. "Who better to take to the Final 2 than her? There's no way she can beat me in votes."

Brett talked to Jaison about the impending vote.

"Do you guys know what you're doing, or is it up in the air?" Brett asked.

"You always think you know what you're doing but you never actually know what's going to happen," answered Jaison.

In a confessional, Russell called Jaison "the weakest link" and thought Natalie was stronger in helping to beat Brett in the next Immunity Challenge. He also weighed the pros and cons of keeping Jaison or Mick.

"The good thing about keeping Jaison is he can't beat me in the votes, the bad thing about keeping Jaison is he can't beat Brett in the challenge," explained Russell. "The good thing about keeping Mick is he could possibly beat Brett in the challenge, the bad thing about keeping Mick is he might beat me in jury votes."

He approached Jaison about getting rid of Mick, and Jaison agreed.

"I think Russell and I trust each other enough and we're comfortable. When I say this, I mean it. When he says this, he means it," explained Jaison.

However Russell also told Mick that Jaison would be next, and Mick agreed.

"I wish he could stay around. But Natalie's head is much more in the game than Jaison's," said Mick in a confessional. "He shows up, but he's just not really into it at all."

Russell knew that he and Natalie were in control over what transpired at Tribal.

"We're the ones making the decision," he said before approaching Natalie -- who weighed the options.

"They both have goods and bads," said Russell in a confessional. "So now I'm weighing what in the world I'm supposed to do."

Tribal Council then commenced, and the jury -- Erik, Kelly Sharbaugh, Laura Morett, John Fincher, David Ball, Monica Padilla, and Shambo -- entered.

Natalie explained that if they were unable to beat Brett in the next Immunity Challenge, he would certainly get all the jury votes -- so it was a tough decision about whether to keep someone strong to help beat Brett or keep someone that would be easy to beat at the final Tribal.

Jaison added it was especially difficult because there were a few players remaining who "could command a lot of jury votes."

"It makes sense to keep people that can beat him at this last Immunity," said Mick.

Jeff then asked Brett if he had been "sandbagging it" up until that point in the competition, when he seemed to turn on the burners.

"I think the past few challenges have just coincided with certain skills I have and having really nothing to lose is a different frame of mind that I have that the se people don't necessarily have," he added.

Jaison reiterated Brett needed to go as soon as possible to prevent him from getting to the final Tribal.

"If he got there, he'd definitely have an upper hand," said Jaison.

Brett said at this point, it didn't matter how many jury votes he had since he wasn't at the final Tribal yet.

"I've won three challenges in a row, but it doesn't mean anything if I don't win the next one," he said.

Brett, Russell, Natalie and Mick all voted for Jaison -- who became the sixteenth castaway eliminated and eighth member of the jury.

"I'm kind of pissed off at Russell for blindsiding me this way," said Jaison after his ouster.

"For a relationship that you've had since Day 2, you at least let the guy know that he's going home. So I don't think I'd be cheering for Russell this one. I'd root for Brett. Brett's the underdog. He is who we were. We came from nothing to be something and he did pretty much the same thing."

Back at camp, Brett described it as a "miracle" to still be there.

"This is something I didn't really imagine," he said, adding Immunity was his only hope. "My fate is in my own hands."

The next day on the beach, Russell asked Brett if he thought he could beat him if they both made the Final 3 jury vote.

"I don't know," answered Brett. "I think it would be pretty close."

Russell said he'd rather be next to someone who "deserves it more" and Brett agreed, stating he'd "rather go up against someone that's harder to beat and lose" than someone who is easier to beat and win. Russell saw an opening, and struck a deal with Brett.

"What I can promise you is me and you will be in the Top 3," he told him.

"Okay," said Brett.

"If you win it, then you're safe," explained Russell. "If I win it, I'll take you to the Top 3. If you win, you're in the Top 3. We have no doubts. I'm going to do it straight up with you. Deal?"

"Deal," said Brett as they shook hands.

In a confessional, Russell called the deal an "insurance policy" in case Brett were to win Immunity.

"It looks like I'm going to be in the Top 3 no matter what," boasted Russell in a confessional. "If I win this challenge today, I'm 100% positive that the game is mine. I won the $1 million."

They then retrieved some Tree Mail, which informed them they'd be remembering Survivor: Samoa's 16 previously booted castaways via the game's traditional "Fallen Comrades" journey. Once it was complete, the castaways met for the final Immunity Challenge, and Jeff explained the rules.

Each castaway would place a wooden statue on the end of a pole. At regular intervals, another section would be added to the pole -- making it more difficult to keep stable. The last person with his or her statue standing would win Immunity and an automatic bid to plead his or her case in front of the jury.

The challenge commenced. Mick was the first one out, followed by Natalie -- setting up a showdown between Russell and Brett, which was eventually won by Russell.

"This is worth $1 million right now. In my opinion, I just won the game," said Russell in a confessional.

Back at camp, Brett told Mick he was "proud" of himself for making it as far as he did and called Survivor an "awesome experience."

"I failed," he said in a confessional. "I'm pretty certain that I'll be going home tonight. The only thing I have to fall back on is Russell's deal that he made with me that if one of us were to win then we'd take the other person to the final."

The former Foa Foa members discussed their chances at the final Tribal -- as Natalie said she thought Russell would win, and Mick agreed Russell had a "great shot." Russell was also confident, thinking the fact that he beat Brett in the final Immunity Challenge was just what he needed to make his case with the jury.

"I made a promise to Brett," said Russell in a confessional. "But you see, I made a promise to Mick too. Either way I slice it, if I break my promise with somebody I'll be putting them on the jury and they're taking it personal -- they hate me. This is why the game gets tough."

Mick told Natalie he was "skeptic" Brett was going to go that easily and thought something might be up.

"Mick, you're fine," assured Natalie. "You're so paranoid... Do you honestly think any of us want to go against [Brett] on the jury?"

"I wouldn't think so, but Russell's got all these little strange plans and ploys," said Mick.

"No Mick, it's a done deal," assured Natalie again. "You're coming back here tonight, and so am I, and so is Russell."

Russell then approached Brett and explained he had a deal with both him and Mick.

"I wish I was like you when I was your age," gushed Russell.

"I appreciate that," replied Brett.

"The only option we have is Natalie is going to vote you and Mick is going to vote you . If I vote Mick and you vote Mick then it's a 2-2 tie," explained Russell. "Then it's a challenge -- it might be a fire challenge. Do you think you could beat Mick in a fire challenge?"

"Yeah," replied Brett.

In a confessional, Brett said it was "hard to take [Russell's] word 100%."

"All I can do is hope that he's a man of his word," said Brett.

Russell said in a confessional he was solely focused on "jury votes" when deciding between Mick and Brett.

"Mick's a real good guy, I like him a lot," added Russell. "Brett's a good guy too. But I'm playing the game. I'm still strongly considering keeping Brett. May the best man win. That might get me jury votes -- keeping the strongest here."

The penultimate Tribal Council then commenced and the jury entered. Russell said he "definitely" knew it would be him and Brett facing off at the end of the final Immunity Challenge.

"I knew he would be the one that would be there at the end," said Russell. "I put more effort into this challenge then I did into anything in this entire game."

Mick said he "absolutely" knew Brett would be next as soon as Russell won, and added it was a "huge relief." Natalie echoed Mick's statement and Russell said Brett played a great game.

"He deserves to be sitting up there with me," said Russell about Brett. "We're probably the two best up here and you want the best up here to talk in front of the jury. That's just how it should be."

Mick said Russell was making a good point, however he didn't necessarily agree with it because Brett in front of the jury met only one thing -- he would win the $1 million.

"Russell knows strategically it's not a good move to take Brett and put him in front of that jury," added Natalie.

Brett said Mick and Natalie had to be "a little worried" and Jeff asked if Russell would get "respect" from the jury for taking him.

"Oh yeah, most definitely," replied Brett. "By that action, you're showing a sense of confidence in yourself."

However Russell, Natalie and Mick all voted for Brett -- who became the seventeenth castaway eliminated and ninth and final jury member.

"Wow. They did it," said Erik as Brett had his torch snuffed.

"I knew a couple Tribals ago that it was my time to go," said Brett after his outer. "I'm the last Galu member, I'm so proud of that. To get to where I got -- 38 days, one of the Final 4 -- was definitely a testament to will, my hard work and I definitely feel like I went out on my own accord to some degree."

The next morning, Russell, Mick and Natalie toasted to making the Final 3.

"I said from Day 1 that I was going to get here, and here I am," said Russell. "Not only did I get here, I brought two people here that I wanted to be here with me."

Russell told Natalie and Mick that the jury would accuse them of riding his coattails and asked how they would defend themselves -- specifically claiming he was going to call them the "nice guy and nice girl."

"Russell has good points, but he needs to be reminded that he couldn't have done this without us," said Mick. "We just took totally different paths to do it. Some people may say I like your path a little better, here's your vote."

Natalie thought there was "strategy" in Russell boasting that he had the jury in the bag.

"I'm not going to give up," she added. "I'll just explain to the jury I do not work the same way as Russell. That would clearly not have worked for me. The girls that were aggressive, they got eliminated early."

In a confessional, Russell said it would be a "shame" if Natalie or Mick won.

"It wouldn't make any sense to me," he said. "I played this game strategically better than anybody -- maybe in history. I really think this jury is going to put my name down. I accomplished the impossible out here. All by myself and brought a couple of bums with me."

The final Tribal Council then commenced, and the nine jurors entered. Jeff explained that Mick, Russell and Natalie would each make an opening statement before the jury members would have as opportunity to either ask a question or make a statement of their own.

Mick said he came into the game realizing there would be a lot of pressure on him to have more of a "moral leeway" than he was "willing to give" -- and added that temptation only grew at the merge. However he said he still wasn't willing to go outside the parameters he set for himself.

"The fact that I was able to get this far doing that, that was kind of my goal in this and I feel like I accomplished it," he said.

Natalie said there were lots of doubters in her Survivor ability even before she left, and added she decided to go through with it because she wanted to gain confidence and go outside of her comfort zone -- which she felt she did despite it being the hardest thing she had ever done mentally, emotionally or physically.

Not surprisingly, Russell made it clear he was there to win, which he tried to do by making "huge strategic moves" throughout the game -- beginning at Foa Foa and continuing after the merge. He called Laura's ouster the "biggest move of the game" before he turned on John.

"It went like dominoes from there," said Russell, adding defeating Brett was the "most difficult" thing he had to do physically.

"If either one of these outwit me then give them the money. If either one of these outplayed me then give them the game," said Russell about Natalie and Mick. "But you know what? I don't think that they have."

Jaison went first and he gave the Final 3 an opportunity to share information about who they "really are."

Natalie said she's "technically unemployed" since she quit her job to join the show's cast. Russell explained he was a "businessman."

"I opened a business five years ago, struggle for three years and just became successful with the business for two years," added Russell. "This is the first business that I have succeeded with."

Mick said he's $320,000 in debt from medical school. Jaison said he believed all the answers, but pointed out Natalie neglected to reveal she "made a lot of money," Russell was the "wealthiest" in the Final 3, and Mick will get paid very well as a doctor.

"Whatever decision is made, no one is broke," said Jaison. "I think you guys should look for other criteria."

Shambo apologized to America for "dismantling" Galu and questioned that decision. She then called Mick's decision "feckless" and insulted him for not knowing what it meant and called Natalie Russell's "coattail" rider. Natalie disagreed and said it was "intuition" to not play "aggressive" and put a target on her back.

"No way in god's green earth you're getting my vote," said Shambo to Natalie.

Brett asked Mick how he would plan a man date for the two of them and explained it was a way to see how invested Mick was in him as a "human being." Kelly said she disagreed with Natalie being independent.

"It wasn't because I had no fight," argued Natalie. "But I did do things on my own and I'll tell you I got better throughout the game to believe in myself."

Kelly then asked Russell if he was the same in real life as in the game.

"I'm 100% different outside of this game," he answered. "The thing that bothers me is I don't want my kids to think this is how I really am."

Russell added he embraces "honor, integrity and loyalty" outside of game, which Kelly had a hard time believing.

Monica asked Mick why he deserved the win over Natalie and Russell. Mick said he was not really sure what Natalie did along the way except align with Russell, whom he felt was willing to lie and pit people against each other for his own gain. Mick added he felt Russell let his "giant ego" get out of hand and said that wasn't the kind of character that deserved the $1 million.

Russell defended himself by stating his character wasn't in question when Mick and Natalie were using it to get to the Final 3.

"They both didn't mind following the snake," he said.

Dave asked what each thought there current chances were -- as Mick said between 20 and 25%; Natalie between 30 and 40%; and Russell said he initially thought his odds were much higher but now pegged them around 55%.

"It might happen, it might not happen," he said.

Laura asked Russell what he learned about her through the game, and he said he knew she was Galu's "biggest threat" and was also "controlling."

"If it wouldn't have took place like it did, I don't have a doubt in my mind you'd be here right now," he added.

John then asked Mick to give his "hard sell," and Mick said he has a "solid character" and doesn't treat people "like pawns."

"I don't think you could give it to a more stand-up dude. I just don't," said Mick.

He then asked Natalie to defend herself, and she reiterated that she'd been flying under the radar and tried not to play too aggressively.

Erik went last and said Mick did nothing before stating Russell "admittedly played an unethical game."

"The crazy thing about it is you're sitting there and I'm standing here. Did you get to the right place by behaving the wrong way?" asked Erik.

"I've never been in a situation in my entire life where that was the case. But you sit there proud of it."

Erik said while Natalie may be "weak" and "undeserving," that shouldn't be any less admirable than "lying, cheating and stealing" your way to the Final 3.

"You are sitting there and that makes you just as dangerous as any one of those guys there. You would say that you were probably the least deserving of the title of Sole Survivor," said Erik.

"But maybe, just maybe, in an environment filled with arrogance, delusional entitlement, maybe the person who thinks that she's least deserving is probably the most. You've got my vote, I hope you get four more."

The nine jurors were then given a minute to think before casting their votes. The live portion of the broadcast then commenced and Natalie was revealed to be the winner.

During the live reunion show, Jeff pointed out that Russell looked "visibly upset."

"I feel like I played the best strategic game in history, and I'm not the only one who thinks that," replied Russell. "I can guarantee you millions of people probably think the same thing. Natalie, her best move was to jump on my back."

Jeff then quickly polled the jury about whether Russell would have won had he instead chosen to take Jaison and Shambo -- and according to the results, he would have.

"Natalie, all I want is the title of Sole Survivor. I will pay you $10,000 for the title. If Jeff says, 'Russell, you are the Sole Survivor,' and I get it in paper written down -- that I am the Sole Survivor. I want the title," he pleaded.

"Are you asking Natalie to tell you you're a better player?" asked Jeff.

"No, I'm asking Natalie to ask you to tell me that I'm the Sole Survivor," replied Russell.

"I'm going to decline Russell's offer," said Natalie later in the broadcast. "I'm not interested. In order to win the title of Sole Survivor..."

"$100,000," interrupted Russell, upping his offer.

"No," said Natalie.

Jeff later revealed that Russell had won the "Survivor of the Season" text message/cbs.com vote that allowed home viewers to award $100,000 to one of the season's castaways, with Brett and Shambo finishing in the Top 3 with him.

In addition, Jeff also formally confirmed that Survivor's upcoming twentieth season -- which was filmed back-to-back with Survivor: Samoa in Samoa this summer -- will be dubbed Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains and feature "20 of Survivor's greatest castaways."

Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains will premiere February 11, according to Probst.

Russell Ferguson injures leg, wins 'So You Think Yiou Can Dance' title

2009-12-17T22:18:00.003+02:00

Russell Ferguson was crowned So You Think You Can Dance's sixth-season champion during last night's live finale broadcast of the Fox reality competition series.

The 20-year-old from Boston, MA claimed the $250,000 grand prize and became the first ever krumper to win the show's title.

"Yeah! Yeah!" yelled Fegruson as he leapt around the stage, took his shirt off, and eventually fell to his knees before standing back up.

"I just want to thank everybody so much. This means everything to me. I've been dreaming of this ever since I was born. I just thank the judges so much for their criticism -- you guys make me better as a person, as a dancer... I want to thank my parents, my mother, my father, my girlfriend's over there, my little brother. I love all y'all."

Ferguson's victory came after he injured himself during a routine earlier in the broadcast. As host Cat Deeley called out the Top 6 finalists to reveal the first elimination, Ferguson was visibly in pain.

"I messed my knee up... I mean my leg up," he said through tears.

"We'll get you some help okay? Have you seen the medic?" asked Deeley, as Ferguson nodded his head "yes."

"Okay. Hang in there one second for me and we'll get you off here as soon as possible," she replied. "It is time for some results."

Later in the broadcast when Ferguson was scheduled to perform a routine with previously eliminated finalist Noelle Marsh, Fox instead aired video footage of when the performance originally aired during the third week of the competition.

"Obviously, as you've seen earlier in the show, Russell has been injured here tonight. But luckily, we have a tape of the original performance," said Deeley.

In addition, video footage from one of Ferguson's Tuesday night routines with fellow Top 6 finalist Kathryn McCormick also aired in place of a live performance due to his injury.

Ferguson was subsequently seated on a stool onstage each time an elimination was revealed, except when Deeley called him out to reveal the winner -- when he walked out on stage with eventual runner-up Jakob Karr.

"When I first auditioned in New Orleans, I never even thought that I would be anywhere near this point," said Karr, a 19-year-old contemporary dancer from Windermere, FL who currently resides in New York, NY, in a video montage before the results were revealed.

"I wish that this could go on forever. I could stay right here in this second for the rest of my life and be so happy."

McCormick, a 19-year-old contemporary dancer from Augusta, GA who currently resides in Burbank, CA, finished third.

"This has been something that I will never forget<' she said after her elimination. "This has been like anything I've ever imagined for myself and I'm so blessed and so thankful that I was able to share it with every one of you."

Ellenore Scott, a 19-year-old contemporary/jazz dancer from Santa Cruz, CA who currently resides in Brooklyn, NY, finished in fourth.

"You can't explain what happens to you on this show unless you're in it," said Scott. "It builds each one of us in a really unique way and it bonds us all together in a way, it's more than amazing -- absolutely more than amazing... I'm so blessed and so happy."

Ashleigh Di Lello, a 26-year-old Latin ballroom dancer from Orem, UT, finished in fifth.

"This entire experience... I'm so grateful to God for giving me a second chance at life to dance, for this show -- the opportunity to get up on this stage and do what I love for all of these weeks. I am so grateful," said Di Lello after her ouster.

Her husband Ryan Di Lello, a 28-year-old ballroom dancer from Springville, UT who currently resides in Orem, UT, finished in sixth.

"To be able to share this with my sweetheart is like a dream come true," he said.

"What I'm going to take is the little things -- the friendships, the warm hearts, the people I'm going to really keep close to me forever. If I have motivated or inspired anybody, I could not ask for anything more. This has just been a dream come true. I'm just so thankful. I'm humble to be here."

In addition, the finale broadcast featured the Top 20 finalists performing different routines from the season, as well as performances by Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez, British third-season The X Factor winner Leona Lewis and American Idol eighth-season runner-up Adam Lambert.

Joe McElderry wins X Factor crown

2009-12-14T02:34:00.002+02:00

Eighteen-year-old Joe McElderry has beaten Olly Murs to win the sixth series of the ITV talent show X Factor.

The pair battled it out on primetime TV across the weekend to win a lucrative £1m recording contract.

More than 10 million viewers voted in the final show of the series, which has dominated TV screens this autumn.

It is the second consecutive year judge Cheryl Cole has mentored the winner. "I can't even speak," said McElderry. "Thank you so much everyone."

"I feel over the moon, I'm absolutely delighted," said Cole, who comes from the same area as McElderry.

"The right person won. I'm so proud of you. The North East are going to be going mad."

"I couldn't believe it," McElderry later told spin-off show ITV2's Xtra Factor. "I feel like I'm floating... I just feel like jelly."

"I've had the best experience of my life."

Runner up Olly Murs, 25, was gracious in defeat, calling his rival "phenomenal".

"I came out there fighting, did the best I could, and the best guy won. Joe deserves it."

Festive hit

Simon Cowell, the show's creator and Murs's mentor, told McElderry he was "gutted for Olly" but "thrilled for you because you're brilliant".

McElderry won almost two-thirds (61.3%) of the votes in the final, compared with just over a third (38.7%) for Murs, according to voting statistics released on The X Factor website.

The student, from South Shields on Tyneside, had been the bookmakers' favourite to win the series.

However, ahead of Sunday's final, judge Cowell insisted "there could be an upset".

After the announcement McElderry performed the Miley Cyrus track The Climb, which will be this year's X Factor single and is widely tipped to be the Christmas number one.

"Christmas chart success is virtually assured," said Ladbrokes' Nick Weinberg, who have cut McElderry's odds of a festive hit to 1/8.

Sunday's high-profile finale included performances from George Michael and Sir Paul McCartney, who was joined by Murs, McElderry and fellow contestants in a rendition of Drive My Car.

The show opened with this year's 12 finalists - including infamous twins John and Edward Grimes - singing Take That's Never Forget.

Also on stage during the two-hour extravaganza were the 2008 X Factor winner Alexandra Burke - who sang with last year's runners up, JLS - and Leona Lewis, who triumphed in the 2006 series and has become a huge star on both sides of the Atlantic.

The final instalment in the contest - which followed Stacey Soloman's departure on Saturday - began with Murs and McElderry performing their favourite song of the series.

Murs performed Twist And Shout, while McElderry - better known for his ballads - gave an upbeat rendition of Don't Stop Believing.

"Geordie Joe - you're got everything: the voice, the attitude, the charm," said judge Louis Walsh. "Small boy, big voice - and a great future."

"You would have a hit record with that song, it was that good," said Cowell.

Both contestants went on to sing their versions of The Climb, but despite admiration for Murs, Walsh maintained McElderry "had the edge", calling it "a note-perfect performance".

Cowell remarked that nerves had led to a shaky start from McElderry, but added he was "brilliant in the last half".

"I can't call this now, I really can't," he said.

Lucrative series

Ahead of the result, an emotional Cole, recalled her own break, in another TV talent show, Popstars: The Rivals.

"I've lived the dream - now I just want to see you live yours," she told McElderry.

This year's X Factor is expected to be extremely lucrative for ITV1.

The series has dominated peaktime viewing on both Saturday and Sunday throughout the autumn.

The 40 ITV1 shows are thought to have brought in more than £75m in advertising, plus revenue from the phone-votes.

One analyst claims the total benefit to ITV is almost £100m, including income from showings on its website itv.com and the ITV2 spin-off show.

But despite the hype that has surrounded this year's show, not all winners in the show's six series have gone on to enjoy global success.

Leon Jackson, who won the competition in 2007, was dropped after his debut album charted at number four in the UK, while Steve Brookstein - the winner of series one - was also dropped eight months into his contract, despite a number one single and album.

Gibraltar wins Miss World 2009

2009-12-13T19:16:00.002+02:00

Gibraltar's Kaiane Aldorino claimed the title of Miss World 2009 on Saturday, defeating 111 other hopefuls at a glittering ceremony in South Africa.

"Thank you South Africa, this is the most wonderful moment of my life," said a tearful Aldorino, whose website describes her as a 22-year-old human resources clerk who loves dancing and spending time with loved ones.

Confetti rained down the stage as Aldorino, representing a British territory at the western end of the Mediterranean Sea with a population of less than 30,000, accepted the crown.

Mexico's Perla Beltran came second, with South African entry Tatum Keshwar taking third place.

The African-themed gala event at a Johannesburg convention centre attracted a multi-national crowd, waving country flags and cheering wildly for their favourite contestants.

Miss India, Pooja Chopra, a hot favourite with the crowd, got eliminated in the top 16, after winning the "beauty with a purpose" title for her charity work.

"The build up to this event has been phenomenal, the girls have had a time of their lives in South Africa," said Chinese television presenter Angela Chow, who hosted the show.

Here is the outcome of Miss World 2009:

Miss World 2009:
GIBRALTAR, Kaiane Aldorino

1st Runner Up:
MEXICO, Perla Beltrán

2nd Runner Up:
SOUTH AFRICA, Tatum Keshwar

TOP 7 FINALISTS

COLOMBIA
, Daniela Ramos
PANAMA, Nadege Herrera
CANADA, Lena Ma
FRANCE, Chloé Mortaud

TOP 16 SEMIFINALISTS

JAPAN, Eruza Sasaki
SIERRA LEONE, Mariatu Kargbo
INDIA, Pooja Chopra
KOREA, Kim Joo-ri
MARTINIQUE, Ingrid Littré
POLAND, Anna Jamróz
BRAZIL, Luciana Bertolini
VIETNAM, Trần Thị Hương Giang
KAZAKHSTAN, Dina Nuraliyeva

FAST TRACK EVENT WINNERS

-Japan (Sports Winner)
-Canada (Talent Winner)
-Sierra Leone (Talent Winner)
-Mexico (Top Model Winner)
-Gibraltar (Beach Beauty Winner)
-India (Beauty with a Purpose Winner)

CONTINENTAL QUEENS OF BEAUTY

Beauty Queen of Africa: Tatum Keshwar (South Africa)
Beauty Queen of Americas: Perla Beltrán (Mexico)
Beauty Queen of Asia & Oceania: Trần Thị Hương Giang (Vietnam)
Beauty Queen of Caribbean: Ingrid Littré (Martinique)
Beauty Queen of Europe: Kaiane Aldorino (Gibraltar)

This year’s board of judges are:

Julia Morley (Miss World Limited Chairman and Chairman of the Judges)
Priyanka Chopra (Miss World 2000 from India)
Zhang Zi Lin (Miss World 2006 from China)
Mike Dixon (Musical Director)
JJ Schoeman (Designer)
Lindiwe Mahlangu-Kwele (CEO Johannesburg Tourism Company)
Graham Cooke (MD World Travel Group)
Warren Batchelor (Executive Producer, Miss World 2009)

Michael Voltaggio wins 'Top Chef: Las Vegas' title, beats brother Bryan

2009-12-12T18:43:00.004+02:00

Michael Voltaggio was crowned Top Chef: Las Vegas' winner during last night's finale broadcast of the Bravo culinary competition series.

"I'm really exhausted and surprised and happy and sad. I didn't know that you could actually feel every single emotion at the same time," Michael said after his victory.

"It's been a rough road -- it's been a pretty strange process -- but it was worth it. I would do it again because it definitely got me in touch with who I am as a person and who I am as a cook."

The 30-year-old from Frederick, MD who currently resides in Los Angeles, CA claimed Top Chef's sixth-season prize package of $100,000 in seed money to help open a restaurant, a feature in Food & Wine magazine, a showcase at the Annual Food & Wine Classic in Aspen; and $100,000 worth of merchandise provided by Macy's.

Michael's brother Bryan Voltaggio, a 33-year-old from Frederick, MD who currently resides in Urbana, MD, finished as the runner-up.

"I'm more proud of the fact that Bryan and I made it all the way to the end than I am about winning the entire competition," said Michael. "It was probably one of the hardest moments of our lives. I wish both of us could win."

"I'm disappointed a little bit in myself," added Bryan. "I set out to win the whole thing, so coming in second place, that's tough. But I'm proud to see my little brother win. I'd rather him than anybody else."

Kevin Gillespie, a 26-year-old from Atlanta, GA, finished third.

"I had a bad day. It just sucks one day ruined it for me," Kevin lamented after his ouster.

"I'm proud of making it this far and I'm proud to lose to people as good as Bryan or Michael. I was the underdog from the very beginning that managed to rise up and show that if you fight really hard you can make it. It just didn't go all the way."

Top Chef: Las Vegas' finale broadcast began with the three remaining finalists traveling to a Napa Valley vineyard, where they were met by host Padma Lakshmi and lead judge Tom Colicchio.

Tom explained that for their final challenge, the finalists would each be cooking a three-course meal. For the first course, the finalists would be cooking with a set of identical mystery ingredients, while for their second course they could cook any dish they wanted with any ingredients found in the kitchen. For the third course, they were required to cook a dessert.

The finalists then each randomly selected two of the 14 previously-eliminated contestants to them for the final challenge -- one on the initial prep day and one on for the actual service day.

Kevin chose Preeti Mistry and Ash Fulk, Bryan picked Ashley Merriman and Jennifer Carroll, and Michael selected Jesse Sandlin and Eli Kirshtein.

"I'm a little jealous of my other two competitors," opined Kevin.

The chefs discovered what mystery ingredients they'd be working with for the first course before getting to work -- which would include three hours of preparation on the first day and three hours of cooking on the second day.

On the morning of the second day, the three finalists were surprised to be visited by their mothers. Tom then revealed that the finalists would also be cooking a fourth course that would be dedicated to their moms and inspired by their favorite childhood dish. The three finalists then started cooking.

Kevin's mom-inspired course was fried chicken skin, tomatoes, and a liquid squash casserole; his course with the mystery ingredients was rockfish in duck fat, roasted matsutake, and roasted crab broth; his chef's choice course was a slow cooked pork belly, roasted broccoli and brussel sprouts, and caramelized ham jus; and his dessert was roasted banana, chocolate bacon mousse, and peanut bacon brittle.

Michael's mom-inspired course was cream of dehydrated broccoli, spot prawn and fried broccoli; his course with the mystery ingredients was a butter poached rockfish, tomato-komba sauce and sweet and sour salad; his chef's choice course was a fennel-scented squab, cassoulet, and textures of mushrooms; and his dessert was a chocolate caramel coulant, and butternut squash ice cream.

Bryan's mom-inspired course was a tuna noodle casserole; his course with the mystery ingredients was a sous vide rockfish, diced matsutake, and meyer lemon jam; his chef's choice course was a venison saddle, brussel sprouts, sunchokes, and maple-glazed carrots; and his dessert was a sheep's milk and white chocolate "dulce de leche" cheesecake, dry caramel, fig sorbet, and poached pear.

The finalists presented their courses to a finale dinner panel which included regular judging panel members Padma, Tom, Food & Wine magazine editor Gail Simmons, and restaurant critic Toby Young as well as chef Douglas Keane, Terlato Wine Group president Bill Terlato, their moms, and restaurateurs Donatella Arpaia, Stephen Starr, Drew Nieporent, and Sam Nazarian.

adma, Gail, Toby and Tom then met the three finalists to critique the final dishes.

Bryan's fish was criticized by Toby for not being bold enough, while his venison was praised by Gail and Tom. Padma complimented Kevin's chicken-skin dish, however Toby and Tom thought the pork wasn't as good as it could have been. Toby thought Michael nailed the matsutake and pickled tomato, and Tom thought all of his dishes were successful. Michael also acknowledged the cake was overcooked and dry.

The judges then began their final deliberation.

Gail thought Kevin's mom-inspired course had the most flavor, while Toby liked Bryan's the best and Tom thought it was too bland and also wasn't a fan of Michael's.

Tom complimented Michael's use of the mystery ingredients was the best, while it was agreed upon Kevin messed up on the mushroom on his dish. Gail thought Bryan's dish had no texture.

Tom and Gail thought Bryan's third dish was flawless, and Toby agreed -- however he didn't think it was as memorable as Michael's, which Gail wasn't a fan of. None of them really cared for Kevin's third dish.

They all knew Michael didn't make his dessert the right way but Gail still liked it, and Toby summed up the day for Kevin.

"I thought Kevin's dish was again disappointing and -- don't get me wrong, I think he's on the fast-track to becoming a culinary superstar -- but he had a bad night," said Toby.

The three finalists were then called back and Michael was revealed as the winner.

Bravo renewed Top Chef for a seventh season in October and subsequently held casting calls in San Francisco, Miami, Chicago, Washington, New York, Dallas, and Los Angeles.

Meghan Rickey and Cheyne Whitney win 'The Amazing Race' 15th Season

2009-12-07T20:11:00.003+02:00

Dating Couple" Meghan Rickey and Cheyne Whitney won The Amazing Race's fifteenth season during last night's finale broadcast of the CBS reality competition series.

"This is absolutely a dream come true," Meghan said after the couple's victory.

"I couldn't have imagined a better race. I've learned so much about Cheyne. He's just such a good friend and such a good person. I know that he's always going to be there for me throughout my entire life."

Meghan, a 23-year-old account executive from San Diego, CA, and Cheyne, a 23-year-old student also from San Diego, were the first team to cross the fifteenth-season's finish line in Las Vegas and claimed the $1 million grand prize.

"The whole experience in itself was life changing," said Cheyne. "And the money isn't even as important as what we got to do together."

"Brothers" Daniel and Samuel McMillen finished second.

"We're completely happy to be here," said Dan. "We wanted to share our story. We wanted to not let our family down just by being who we were, but we just wanted to come out and do this race and finish this race."

"We bicker, we pick at each other. But we know it's not going to matter," added Sam. "At the end of the day we're still brothers, we still love each other."

"Married Couple" Ericka Dunlap and Brian Kleinschmidt finished third.

"I think my family's going to see some things in Brian that they never had an opportunity to see before and I hope they fully accept him for who he is," said Ericka. "This was just a part of our journey. I'm just really grateful that I had him to do it with and I'm really glad that I have him in my life to learn from."

The Amazing Race's finale broadcast began at the previous Pit Stop at Strelecky Ostrov in Prague.

Since Meghan and Cheyne were the first team to arrive at the Pit Stop, they were the first team to depart at 11:10AM. They opened their next clue, which instructed them to fly nearly 6,000 miles to Las Vegas, their final destination on the race.

They found a travel agent and booked a British Airways flight leaving Prague for Vegas at 6:40PM.

"I'm sure we're all going to be on the same flight together," said Meghan, adding the flight would arrive stateside at 2PM the next day.

Meghan and Cheyne were followed by Sam and Dan (12:08PM) and Brian and Ericka (3:15PM) -- and Meghan's assumption was correct as all three teams had the same flight.

The three teams then arrived in Vegas and hailed taxis to take them to the Graceland Wedding Chapel.

Once there an Elvis impersonator handed them their next clue, which instructed them to travel to the Mandalay Bay casino. Brian and Ericka's cab driver took a shortcut and got them to Mandalay Bay first and they were met by a Roadblock.

In this Roadblock, one member from each team would have to rappel down the side of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Once they got to the bottom they would receive their next clue. Ericka decided to do the Roadblock, followed by Cheyne and Sam.

"Our taxi driver sucked," said Dan as he waited at the bottom of the building.

Ericka was the first one down. She and Brian opened their next clue, which told them to travel to The Mirage casino.

"I think the karma is finally going to pay off," said Brian as they hopped into their cab. "We're definitely feeling good, but we're not getting cocky. Anything can happen."

Cheyne then reached the bottom and left for The Mirage with Meghan, followed by Sam and Dan.

"Dang it, I hate being in third place right now," said Sam.

Brian and Ericka were the first to arrive at The Mirage, where they were met by a task in which they would have to join the cast of the Circque du Soleil show Love.

Using bungee cords, one team member had to launch their partner high enough in the air to retrieve a bouquet of flowers. Once they grabbed the entire bouquet, they would hand it over to the flower child -- who would hand them their next clue.

Ericka was attached to the bungee cords, followed by Meghan and Dan. Despite arriving in first, Brian and Ericka quickly lost their lead when she had a hard time getting high enough to retrieve the bouquet.

"It was frustrating because I knew she was trying her hardest," said Brian. "She was just an inch away."

Ericka thought she needed to switch with Brian since he's taller, and he finally seemed to understand once Meghan grabbed the bouquet.

"You want to switch or not?" he asked meekly.

"Yeah, I want to switch!" she replied. "Get me down I want to switch!"

Opening their next clue, Meghan and Cheyne learned they were looking for "the most famous casino in the country of Monaco" and needed to figure out they were looking for the Monte Carlo casino. Unfortunately, the cab driver they asked told them he believed the The Venetian casino was the clue answer.

Back at the Love show, Dan was the next to grab the bouquet -- causing Ericka and Brian to switch roles again and Ericka to launch into an extended meltdown.

Dan and Sam had their cab driver simply follow Meghan and Cheyne, meaning both were now en route to the wrong destination. However on the way to The Venetian, Sam and Dan called the Mandalay Bay to ask what "the most famous casino in the country of Monaco" was and learned the correct Monte Carlo answer.

"They're turning that way," Meghan noticed. "Let's ask Cheyne. I'm scared."

They asked some people on the street and still couldn't get the right answer. Meanwhile, Ericka finally grabbed the bouquet and they received their next clue. Brian thought he knew the Monte Carlo was the answer and Ericka assured him he was right.

Sam and Dan were the first to reach the Monte Carlo and learned that for their final task, they'd have to count $1 million worth of poker chips from a table containing 84,000 chips of different denominations. When they thought they were finished, a dealer would check their amount before handing them a special chip and their next clue. Sam and Dan took a strategy of collecting only red $1,000 chips.

Meghan and Cheyne finally learned they were looking for the Monte Carlo, however on their way there they got stuck in traffic.

"I think we just lost some time," said Meghan.

Brian and Ericka were the next to arrive at the Monte Carlo and also started with the $1,000 chips. Meghan and Cheyne eventually arrived and began with the $1,000 chips as well, putting them in stacks of 25.

Despite the different start times, all three teams appeared to finish counting their chips within moments of each other and their assigned dealers started checking their totals. Meghan and Cheyne learned they were correct with their first count attempt, however neither Sam and Dan or Brian and Ericka were as lucky.

Opening their next clue, Meghan and Cheyne learned they needed to travel to the "High Roller's Suite" at the MGM Grand Hotel, where singer Wayne Newton would tell them the finish line's location.

Meanwhile, Sam and Dan and Brian and Ericka both re-checked their counts, and while the brothers got it right Brian and Ericka still didn't.

"How does this happen every single time?" a depressed Ericka asked.

Meghan and Cheyne arrived at the suite and were met by Wayne, who sent them to the finish line -- which was at his house. Sam and Dan also met Wayne and he gave them the finish line's destination too -- even though they didn't know his name.

While Meghan and Cheyne were the first at Wayne's ranch, they had a hard time finding the entrance. However it didn't matter, as they were still the first across the finish line.

"This has been such a learning experience," said Meghan. "Every step of the way has been so neat."

"She was one of the strongest competitors in the whole race -- even compared to the guys," said Cheyne about Meghan. "She raced with the best of them."

The Amazing Race's fifteenth season covered eight countries and more than 25,000 miles in 21 days.

'Dancing with the Stars' crowns Donny Osmond ninth-season champion

2009-11-25T23:53:00.002+02:00

Entertainer Donny Osmond and his partner Kym Johnson were crowned Dancing with the Stars' ninth-season ballroom champions during last night's live finale results show on ABC.

"Yeah!" yelled Osmond after host Tom Bergeron revealed he was the ninth-season celebrity winner based on the combination of the judges' score shares for the dancers' Monday and Tuesday night performances and the share of home viewer votes cast immediately after Monday night's broadcast.

Osmond's victory marks the first time in four seasons that a male has taken home the mirror ball trophy -- as Shawn Johnson won last spring's eighth season, Brooke Burke won last fall's seventh season and Kristi Yamaguchi won the Spring 2008 sixth season. Prior to that, a male had claimed four consecutive titles.

At 51-years-old, Osmond also became Dancing with the Stars' oldest winner ever.

Singer Mya and her professional partner Dmitry Chaplin -- -- who topped the judges' leaderboard for six of the competition's 10 weeks -- finished second.

"We are so happy to come this far," Mya said after Osmond was revealed as the winner. "I had a broken foot last year. I'm just so happy to have made it to the finals and it's all about teamwork and we enjoyed ourselves. We had the time of our life."

Former The Osbournes star Kelly Osbourne and her partner Louis van Amstel finished third.

"It's been the most beautiful, amazing experience," said Osbourne after the studio audience chanted "Kelly!" when her ouster was revealed.

"The only thing I really want to say in thank you America. Thank you so much for voting me in every week. It's because of you I've grown so much. It's because of you that I have this opportunity, so thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Osmond and Johnson had received a combined score of 85 out of 90 possible points for their three Monday night routines -- placing them in second behind Mya and Chaplin, who had scored an 87. Osbourne and van Amstel had finished third with 76 points.

All three couples then performed their favorite ninth-season routine during last night's live finale -- with their scores contributing to their final combined judges score total but not being voted on by home viewers who had already voted based on Monday night's performances.

The final performances were scored using with the same format as Monday night's "megamix" round, with Osmond and Johnson placing first and scoring 30 points, followed by Mya and Chaplin in second with 28 points and Osbourne and van Amstel in third with 26 points.

Last night's victory represented the first for Johnson on the U.S. version of the show, as she won Australia's Dancing with the Stars second season in Spring 2005 with TV personality Tom Williams.

The Apprentice Australia – The Finale – Andrew Morello Wins

2009-11-25T03:56:00.003+02:00

The episode started with the bore, the blonde and the boofhead as the three contestants left standing. At this point I wanted the boofhead to win.

Theirfirst task was to have dinner with Mark Bouris at Aria restaurant in Sydney. Considering the chef, Matt Moran, used to be signed to Channel Nine I was disappointed he did not get a cameo.

At the dinner Mark Bouris wanted to know what drives the contestants. For Gavin it was money, Heather her daughter, and for Morello he said he had aspirations, but not necessarily material ones.

I am not sure if they were sweating because they were under the pump from Bouris, but considering he was also a bit moist it must have been hot at dinner because of the lights.

The following morning was an elimination, and Mark Bouris asked each of them why he should hire them and Gavin’s answer came across as quite arrogant as he said “I have been preparing for this day for many many years…..I do the deals that you guys do on a day to day basis.” Unsurprisingly Mark Bouris fired him.

Then to camera Gavin confirmed what I had thought that he had not really wanted the job.

I got the feeling that Mark Bouris had probably already decided this prior to the boardroom.

The final two were then going to duke it out, but they would have the help of six the previous contestants – three on each team. The interesting thing was that it was not the last six contestants to be kicked out, as Lynton Pipkorn was there but no Amy Cato or Blake. I would be very curious to know why this was the case.

Heather had first pick and she predictably picked Gavin, and the other members of her team were Mary-Ann and Sabrina.

Morello picked Sam, Lynton, and Carmen. I thought he had the stronger team, and they were more cohesive.

The challenge was to create a brand identity of a new men’s fragrance. They were to name it, design a bottle, create a print ad, and also create and produce a thirty second TV ad. And on top of all that they had to manage and design a product launch.

Morello’s team thought of a gangster theme, and the bottle would be in a silver bullet design. They were going to name the fragrance Clyde, as in Bonnie and…

Heather was having a crisis in confidence and was indecisive about a name – it was between Style and Adam. But Adam had already been taken. So she settled on the name Alpha Male.

I wonder how much help the teams get, obviously they are told to do research on the street by sending team members out canvassing.

Cracks were already forming in Heather’s team. Sabrina did not like Heather as she said to Mary-Ann “It is not sitting well with me that I have to help this person who was very bad towards me, and you in the past. If she wins because of my ideas I am just going to be gutted.”

I think Channel Nine need to do an extra episode, showing us the footage that we have not seen. As there was definitely some ill will towards Heather.

Then it was on to the event managers to discuss the launch. Morello had a lot of ideas, which did verge on tackiness particularly the ice sculpture, the event managers modified his ideas somewhat.

Heather went for a more elegant launch and their main focus was their product.

The TV ad had to be shot in three hours. Morello had the advantage of having Lynton on his team who had done this sort of thing before. His concept was a poker den with him being in the ad with the actors as well as Carmen, and Sam.

He seems to have a penchants for smoke machines, but this set off the fire alarms.

The bottle arrived towards the end of the ad, and as Carmen said “It looked like it needed batteries in it.”

Heather’s advertisement concept was urban man discovering her wild roots. This involved an attractive man emerging from the bushes removing his clothes.

Mary-Ann and Sabrina were told to wait in the car, and they were not happy about it. I wonder if this was a passive-aggressive way of Heather saying she did not have faith in them.

Heather’s bottle was much classier. I think girls would buy Heather’s product for their guys. But guy’s would buy Morello’s product.

The launches were at the Paddington Town Hall. Morello’s launch grabbed his audiences attention, but his TV ad was a tad kitsch.

Whereas Heather’s was classy, if a tad boring.

However the difference between the two was that Mark had a smile on his face the whole way through Morello’s launch, in fact he looked like a proud dad.

Michael Edwards was impressed with the Alpha Male name and was surprised it was still available. Victoria Campbell from L’Oreal also loved the bottle and name.

In the boardroom Mark Bouris thought their were negative connotations to the gangster theme, and he did raise the issue of the phallic shaped bottle. I think the shape would be a talking point. It did remind me of a bottle of Lynx deodorant, my understanding that is one of the most popular anti-perspirants with the younger guys.

Heather got caned about leaving the girls in the car. Gavin kept on butting in the the board room and Mark Bouris had to put him back into his place. In fact I thought Gavin was slightly sexist speaking over Heather. She is more than capable of speaking for herself.

Sabrina finally got her revenge at the eleventh hour when she admitted she wanted Morello to win.

Mark Bouris said Morello had an infectious personality, but choked a bit when he was asked how he would deal if he had to make unpopular decisions.

Heather was praised for being a hard worker, however Bouri’s concern was she left behind a bit of human carnage.

It was no shock when Morello was hired, and I was happy with that.

American Music Awards 2009: Highlights, winners, and more

2009-11-25T01:04:00.004+02:00

The American Music Awards are over and what a show it was! Lady Gaga was on fire, Rihanna wowed the crowd, Jennifer Lopez took a spill, and Adam Lambert gave a rockin' performance. Taylor Swift continued to dominate, giving us a taste of what the Grammys will most likely end up looking like. So what happened, who won, and what will people be talking about tomorrow?

For starters, if you heard that Jennifer Lopez fell down, well, it's true. During her performance of 'Louboutins,' Lopez was climbing on the backs of her dancers (while wearing Louboutins - ouch!). As she jumped off the back of the last dancer, she landed poorly and fell flat on her rear end. Ever the professional, Lopez jumped up and continued on with the song. Lopez is no dummy, however, and surely realizes this will end up on YouTube. This is one tape she can't get a court order to prevent from going viral!

Another performance that will have people talking tomorrow was from Lady Gaga. Surprised? Doubtful. Lady Gaga knows how to entertain and everyone remembers her crazy yet compelling performance at the VMAs. Once again, Lady Gaga spared no expense with the theatrics. Playing a piano that's on fire? Ok! Breaking glass with a microphone? No problem!

Video: 2009 American Music Awards Live Performances - Black Eyed Peas - Watch more Music Videos at Vodpod.

Taylor Swift managed another amazing feat: She won Artist of the Year over Michael Jackson. Swift was the night's big winner, taking home three awards. Jackson still won Favorite Male Soul/R&B Artist and Male Pop/Rock Artist.

Here is a list of winners to glance through, then be sure to check out the slideshow of memorable moments from the evening's festivities.

See Memorable moments of the American Music Awards 2009 here:

Favorite Pop/Rock Duo/Group: Black Eyed Peas

Favorite Country Band/Duo/Group: Rascal Flatts

Favorite Female Pop/Rock Artist: Taylor Swift

Favorite Alternative Rock Artist: Green Day

Favorite Male Soul/R&B Artist: Michael Jackson

Favorite Male Country Artist: Keith Urban

Favorite Female Soul/R&B Artist: Beyonce

Favorite Female Country Artist: Taylor Swift

Favorite Male Pop/Rock Artist: Michael Jackson

Favorite Male Rap/Hip-Hop Artist: Jay-Z

Favorite Artist of the Year: Taylor Swift

Stan Walker wins Australian Idol 2009

2009-11-22T23:35:00.003+02:00

SOUL singer Stan Walker has triumphed over rock chick Hayley Warner to be crowned the seventh Australian Idol.

Walker, 18, was the favourite to win the grand final of the Network Ten singing contest and said he felt "blessed" to win.

"I just want to thank God, man. Hey, I want to thank my family for coming and supporting me. My family they came from New Zealand," he told the crowd on winning.

Walker, who was born in Melbourne, raised in New Zealand and is now a shop assistant in Coolangatta, Queensland, wins a $200,000 artist's development fund and a recording contract with Sony, with his single Black Box to be released soon.

Warner, 17, from Sydney, said she knew Walker would win.

"I have said all along he had it in the bag," Warner said.

Judges Ian "Dicko" Dickson, Marcia Hines and Jay Dee Springbett praised both contestants, saying it didn't matter who won because they would both have great careers.

Springbett said to Walker after performing: "You're Stan-bloody-tastic - you're a star in the making."

Dickson said: "Week after week you've stamped your individuality ... you're fantastic."

The grand final at the Sydney Opera House saw the top 12 reunite to perform.

The two finalists sang with Canadian star Michael Buble, performing his hit song Feeling Good as 6000 fans watched on in the sweltering heat.

Last year's Idol winner, Wes Carr, and singer Mika also performed.

Walker joins the ranks of previous winners including Carr, Guy Sebastian, Damien Leith and Casey Donovan.

He said he had imagined himself in the position of the original Australian Idol winner, Sebastian.

"I remember watching Guy, thinking one day I'm gonna be there."

This year's Idol has suffered a ratings drop, struggling to reach a million viewers each week, and there is some speculation it won't be back next year.

There were a number of changes this year as Springbett replaced judge Kyle Sandilands after he was fired for a scandal on his radio show, and the program also lost host James Mathison.

Irina Shabayeva crowned 'Project Runway's sixth-season (2009) champion

2009-11-22T21:58:00.007+02:00

Irina Shabayeva was crowned Project Runway's sixth-season winner during last night's finale broadcast of the clothing design competition's first Lifetime edition.

"I'm definitely proud of myself. I think this deserves a pat on the back. I did have some stiff competition," said Irina after her victory was revealed and she was congratulated by her parents.

"All good things take a lot of work and effort, and that's why they're great. So it was well worth it. I can't believe I'm a Project Runway winner. That's crazy. That's insane."

As Project Runway's sixth-season champion, Irina -- a 27-year-old Republic of Georgia native who immigrated to New York City with her family as a child -- won a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, a trip to Paris, one year of representation from Designers Management Agency, and $100,000 to start her own line.

Irina defeated Althea Harper, a 24-year-old from Dayton, OH who currently resides in Brooklyn, NY who finished as the runner-up.

"I think everything happens for a reason, and even though I didn't win I feel just really great because I made a lot of good friends, met a lot of great people and got a lot of great advice," said Althea after her elimination.

Irina Shabayeva crowned 'Project Runway's sixth-season Pt.1
by jo2306

"I'm feeling good because overall everything was positive. I made have been the winner, but I'm still a winner."

Carol Hannah Whitfield, a 24-year-old from Anderson, SC who currently resides in Brooklyn, NY, finished in third place.

"I came to Project Runway having no clue what was going to happen. I didn't really set any expectations, I just wanted to do my best and just kind of go with it," she said after her ouster. "I feel like I did really well... It's like simultaneously the most bizarre and most amazing experience of my life."

Project Runway's sixth-season finale broadcast began with the three remaining finalists finishing their "surprise" thirteenth design and finalizing their collections for the finale runway show at New York Fashion Week, which took place at Bryant Park in February.

The finale runway show then commenced, and each of the women was shown -- despite February reports that they had actually remained hidden backstage -- coming out on stage and introducing themselves to the audience before their designs hit the runway.

After being shown taking to the runway for a second time and walking with their models at the conclusion of their runway shows, each of the women was also shown receiving rave reviews from audience members who all seemed to know their identities.

Project Runway's regular judging panel -- Heidi Klum, Michael Kors and Nina Garcia -- and guest judge Suzy Menkes then met with three finalists to critique their collections.

Irina Shabayeva crowned 'Project Runway's sixth-season Pt.2
by jo2306

Irina was first, and Suzy said she liked her collection's concept.

"It seemed very coherent," she said. "There was a starting point and it was really worked around in different ways."

Heidi thought it looked "finished," while Nina liked the T-shirts she had designed.

"It was you communicating in a very intimate way," said Nina before asking why the collection was so black, which Irina replied was "intuitive."

"You give yourself a bit of a disservice," warned Michael.

Carol Hannah was next, and Nina said she "loved" the first look.

"It was very spirited and you work very well with these fabrics that are difficult," added Nina.

Heidi was surprised to find her favorite was the thirteenth design Carol Hannah had put together in the last couple of days.

"I had a hard time seeing it as a 13-piece collection," added Heidi. "I just felt like every time something came again it was interesting, but it was always so different that it didn't seem cohesive to me."

Althea went last and Michael said her designs could be "dissembled" into separates, which he liked.

"You could buy a piece and add it to your closet and put your own spin on it, which I think is great," he added.

Suzy liked the knitwear but was unsure where that felt in with the futuristic theme.

"I thought the last three pieces of your collection were off," added Nina. "I almost thought we had moved into another show."

The judges then deliberated their decision.

Michael called Carol Hannah's opening design "exciting" and "photographical" and Suzy thought she had "the best sense of color."

"She played with the color, she just didn't play with it enough," added Michael.

"She loves dresses and she's impeccable in her tailoring," said Heidi. "That's what has made her get this far -- she's always been really good at that."

Nina said she loved Althea's "sense of coolness."

"She can really translate what's going on in the street," she added. "She's got that connection with what is cool and what is out there."

Michael thought women would "respond" to Althea's designs, and Nina agreed.

"Again, it looked a little bit like an assemblage of clothes," said Michael. "It didn't really tell a tale, I don't think."

Suzy didn't think Althea's designs "took well to the runway."

Heidi thought Irina's designs were "really well made and modern" with an "edge."

"She definitely had the best sense of showmanship," said Michael. "She knew how to punctuate it with the hats... They were all a little different but the same, which is a collection."

Heidi said she agreed that Irina's lack of color hurt her, and Michael said he was confused by her gown design.

The finalists then returned and Irina was revealed as the winner.

Irina Shabayeva crowned 'Project Runway's sixth-season Pt.3
by jo2306

"Your line was sleek, modern, cohesive and it told a story," said Heidi to Irina. "You knew what kind of woman you were designing for, and you really did articulate that beautifully."

Irina Shabayeva won the sixth season of the fashion reality show "Project Runway" on Thursday in the conclusion of the hit cable series which was delayed for months by legal wrangling.

Shabayeva, 27, the daughter of immigrants from the Republic of Georgia who moved their family to Brooklyn, impressed the show's judges with an edgy collection of 13 looks shown at New York's Fashion Week earlier this year.

MISS BRAZIL, LARISSA RAMOS - THE NEW MISS EARTH 2009!!!

2009-11-22T21:36:00.003+02:00

The latest edition of Miss Earth was held at the Boracay Ecovillage Resort and Convention Center, in the island paradise of Boracay. Originally slated to be the first Miss Earth to be held outside the Philippines, Santiago, Chile begged off after encountering organizational problems and was thus moved back to the original host country. And after several weeks of competition, a new winner has been crowned.

Who won Miss Earth 2009? Miss Brazil, Larissa Ramos, won Miss Earth 2009. In winning Miss Earth 2009, Brazil is thus the first country to
have won the title twice since its inception in 2001.

Miss Philippines, Sandra Seifert was named Miss Eart Air (first runner up); Miss Venezuela, Jessica Barboza, is Miss Earth Water (second runner up) and Miss Spain, Alejandra Echevarria, is Miss Earth Fire.

In keeping with its theme of beauty with a purpose, delegates of Miss Earth 2009 visited the different islands of the Philippines with the theme "Green Lifestyle" and promoted the use of recyclable materials as part of collective lifestyle. In addition, they engaged on different environmental activities including planting trees, and had school tours in the provinces of Ilocos, Laguna, Negros Occidental, Albay, Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Pangasinan, Batangas, Iloilo and Metro Manila.

Here is the official results:

MISS EARTH 2009:
Brazil, Larissa Ramos

MISS AIR 2009:
Philippines, Sandra Inez Seifert

MISS WATER 2009:
Venezuela, Jessica Barboza

MISS FIRE 2009:
Spain, Alejandra Echevarria

TOP 8

Thailand, Rujinan Phanseethum
Brazil, Larissa Ramos
Poland, Izabela Wilczek
Martinique, Pascale Laurie Nelide
Spain, Alejandra Echevarria
Venezuela, Jessica Barboza
Philippines, Sandra Inez Seifert
Colombia, Alejandra Castillo Múnera

TOP 16 Semi-finalists
(in order of announcement)

Poland, Izabela Wilczek
Korea, Park Ye-ju
Brazil, Larissa Ramos
Colombia, Alejandra Castillo Múnera
Thailand, Rujinan Phanseethum
Spain, Alejandra Echevarria
Northern Ireland, Kayleigh O’Reilly
Philippines, Sandra Inez Seifert
South Africa, Chanel Grantham
France, Magalie Audrey Thierry
Georgia, Nonna Diakonidze
Singapore, Valerie Lim
Martinique, Pascale Laurie Nelide
India, Shriya Kishore
Venezuela, Jessica Barboza
Paraguay, Gabriela Mercedes Rejala

Preliminary Awards:

Best in Swimsuit:
Philippines, Sandra Inez Seifert

Best in Evening Gown:
Philippines, Sandra Inez Seifert

Best in National Costume:
Tanzania, Evelyne Almasi

Miss Photogenic:
Czech Republic, Tereza Budková

Miss Talent:
Tahiti, Niuriki Teremate

Miss Friendship:
Switzerland, Graziella Rogers

Sponsor Awards:

Best in Eco-Design Wear:
Jamaica, Jennae Dawn Jackson

Best in Eco-Bag Design Wear:
Czech Republic, Tereza Budková

Best in Use of Indigenous Products Wear:
Albania, Suada Saliu

Miss Fontana Resort:
China, Yan Xu

Miss Golden Sunset Resort & Spa:
Cuba, Jamillette Gaxiola

Miss Discovery Suites Award:
Spain, Alejandra Echevarria

Miss Eagle Express:
Korea, Park Ye-ju

Placenta Award:
Puerto Rico, Dignelis Jiménez

Pasigandahan Award:
Guam, Maria Luisa Santos

Miss Gandang Ricky Reyes Award:
Spain, Alejandra Echevarria

Miss Asei:
Korea, Park Ye-ju

Miss Perwoll:
Venezuela, Jessica Barboza

Miss AVSCOR:
Dominican Republic, Mariel Aracelis Garcia

Miss HDR Management:
Poland, Izabela Wilczek

Miss Jubilee Presidents’ Foundation:
Philippines, Sandra Inez Seifert