Spotlight On Entertainment

All My Children's 40th Birthday Celebration Continues

2010-01-13T01:11:00.000-08:00

All My Children continued it's 40th birthday party in Los Angeles as part of the 2010 Winter Press Tour. Attending the panel were Creator Agnes Nixon, Executive Producer Julie Hanan Carruthers and cast members, Susan Lucci, Bobbie Eakes, Cameron Mathison and Rebecca Budig.

During the press conference, Carruthers said that a replacement for ousted Head Writer, Charles Pratt, would be announced in a few weeks.

The on-air anniversary celebration last week consisted of a special two episode arc featuring the return of former cast members Kelly Ripa, Mark Consuelos, Eva LaRue, Eden Riegal, Julia Barr, Levin Ramblin, Larry Lau, Taylor Miller and James Mitchell.

In addition to creating "All My Children", the show that introduced the world to Erica Kane, Nixon is also the creator of the ABC Television Network’s "Loving" and the Emmy winning “One Life to Live,” now entering its 42nd year on ABC.

“All My Children” took home the 1998 Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series, the third time the show received this top honor, having garnered the award in 1994 and 1992. It also received its third consecutive Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series Writing.

This year the show is nominated for multiple leading industry awards, including the NAACP Image Awards, Writer's Guild Awards, Director's Guild Awards and the GLADD Awards.

"All My Children" airs weekdays on ABC and weeknights on SOAPnet. Full episodes of the show are available for viewing online at ABC.com

ABC introduces 'Happy Town' starring Steven Weber

2010-01-13T00:16:00.000-08:00

ABC has announced a series of new shows that will debut soon on the network. One of the new shows slated for mid-season replacement, is "Happy Town" starring Steven Weber (Wings, Studio 360) and Sam Neil.

Described by executive producer, Scott Rosenberg, as "Happy Town is Salem's Lot crossed with Twin Peaks", the plot synopsis is:

Haplin, Minnesota, "Happy Town," has enjoyed an uneasy peace for five years, but all that is about to change. Still haunted by a number of unsolved kidnappings, the small town now faces a dark new crime that brings all its unresolved fears to the surface. Has the elusive "Magic Man" - who many believe is responsible for the bizarre abductions -- returned to claim another victim? As Haplin's mysteries are revealed, many of its prominent citizens' motives come under scrutiny as their own secrets and personalities are peeled back one layer at a time.

Haplin is full of colorful characters, including Big Dave Duncan (Abraham Benrubi) and the nefarious Stiviletto brothers, but many in this small town in middle America have skeletons in their closets. Who will step up and help unearth the secrets that have festered under Haplin's cheery exterior? How will its citizens deal with the revelations? And who is the "Magic Man"? Does he really exist, and can he be stopped?

"Happy Town" stars Geoff Stults as Tommy Conroy, Sam Neill as Merritt Grieves, Lauren German as Henley Boone, Steven Weber as John Haplin, Amy Acker as Rachel Conroy, Sarah Gadon as Georgia Bravin, Robert Wisdom as Roger Hobbs, Jay Paulson as Eli "Root Beer" Rogers and Ben Schnetzer as Andrew Haplin.

Recurring stars include Frances Conroy as Peggy Haplin, Abraham Benrubi as Big Dave Duncan, M.C. Gainey as Sheriff Griffin Conroy, Peter Outerbridge as Handsome Dan, Warren Christie as Greggy Stiviletto and Sophia Ewaniuk as Emma Conroy.

Josh Appelbaum ("Life on Mars," "Alias," "October Road"), André Nemec ("Life on Mars," "Alias," "October Road") and Scott Rosenberg ("Life on Mars," "October Road") are executive producers. "Happy Town" is produced by ABC Studios.

(pictured: Steven Weber photo: ABC)

The Late Night drama continues as Conan rejects NBC's decison to move "Tonight Show".

2010-01-12T16:25:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week, NBC announced that it was ending it's 10pm experiment by canceling the "The Jay Leno". The network plans to move Leno's talker to his original Tonight Show time slot of 11:35, opting to push the current "Tonight Show Starring Conan O'Brien." O'Brien and Leno has both joked about the situation on their on-air monolgues but off-camera the funny men aren't laughing. Ending the speculation as to what O'Brien's decision would be, he released a statement today saying he would not agree to NBC's suggestion to move his show to 12:05.

The statement reads:

"People of Earth:

In the last few days, I've been getting a lot of sympathy calls, and I want to start by making it clear that no one should waste a second feeling sorry for me. For 17 years, I've been getting paid to do what I love most and, in a world with real problems, I've been absurdly lucky. That said, I've been suddenly put in a very public predicament and my bosses are demanding an immediate decision.

Six years ago, I signed a contract with NBC to take over The Tonight Show in June of 2009. Like a lot of us, I grew up watching Johnny Carson every night and the chance to one day sit in that chair has meant everything to me. I worked long and hard to get that opportunity, passed up far more lucrative offers, and since 2004 I have spent literally hundreds of hours thinking of ways to extend the franchise long into the future. It was my mistaken belief that, like my predecessor, I would have the benefit of some time and, just as important, some degree of ratings support from the prime-time schedule. Building a lasting audience at 11:30 is impossible without both.

But sadly, we were never given that chance. After only seven months, with my Tonight Show in its infancy, NBC has decided to react to their terrible difficulties in prime-time by making a change in their long-established late night schedule.

Last Thursday, NBC executives told me they intended to move the Tonight Show to 12:05 to accommodate the Jay Leno Show at 11:35. For 60 years the Tonight Show has aired immediately following the late local news. I sincerely believe that delaying the Tonight Show into the next day to accommodate another comedy program will seriously damage what I consider to be the greatest franchise in the history of broadcasting. The Tonight Show at 12:05 simply isn't the Tonight Show. Also, if I accept this move I will be knocking the Late Night show, which I inherited from David Letterman and passed on to Jimmy Fallon, out of its long-held time slot. That would hurt the other NBC franchise that I love, and it would be unfair to Jimmy.

So it has come to this: I cannot express in words how much I enjoy hosting this program and what an enormous personal disappointment it is for me to consider losing it. My staff and I have worked unbelievably hard and we are very proud of our contribution to the legacy of The Tonight Show. But I cannot participate in what I honestly believe is its destruction. Some people will make the argument that with DVRs and the Internet a time slot doesn't matter. But with the Tonight Show, I believe nothing could matter more.

There has been speculation about my going to another network but, to set the record straight, I currently have no other offer and honestly have no idea what happens next. My hope is that NBC and I can resolve this quickly so that my staff, crew, and I can do a show we can be proud of, for a company that values our work.

Have a great day and, for the record, I am truly sorry about my hair; it's always been that way.

Yours,

Conan"

LOST Series Recap:Seasons 1 through 5

2010-01-09T11:19:00.000-08:00

ABC announced today that the sixth and final season of “Lost” will kick-off with a special all-night event on Tuesday, February 2. A recap special will kick off the night from 8:00-9:00 p.m., ET, followed by the much anticipated two-hour premiere from 9:00-11:00 p.m.

The series will then air in its regular time period Tuesday nights from 9:00-10:00 p.m., ET beginning the following week, on February 9.

As the show gets ready to return to what will be it's final season, here's a little recap of the series so far.
Check out the video below:

Source:FC

Monster, Beats™ by Dr. Dre,™ Lady Gaga, and (RED)™ Team Up to Help Eliminate AIDS in Africa

2010-01-09T04:14:00.000-08:00

(Businesswire) -- Monster®, a world leader in the audio/video accessories category, Beats™ by Dr. Dre™, co-founded by legendary artist and producer Dr. Dre and Interscope Geffen A&M Chairman Jimmy Iovine, Lady Gaga and (RED)™ are teaming up to help eliminate AIDS in Africa. At a live press conference from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, the group announced a new Monster (PRODUCT)RED™ Special Edition Beats Solo Headphone, in which $5 from the sale of each product will go directly to the Global Fund to support AIDS programs in Africa that provide testing, counseling, treatment and other services for those affected by AIDS. In addition, the group announced that a special Heartbeats™ headphone will be developed for (RED) later this year.

“We're honored to have the opportunity for Beats by Dr. Dre to join Lady Gaga with Bono and (PRODUCT)RED in its effort in fighting AIDS in Africa”

“We're honored to have the opportunity for Beats by Dr. Dre to join Lady Gaga with Bono and (PRODUCT)RED in its effort in fighting AIDS in Africa,” said Jimmy Iovine.

“Music is part of (RED)'s DNA. We were co-founded by Bono, we sponsor (RED) NIGHTS concerts, we partner with companies like Apple and Shazam. Partnering with Beats by Dr. Dre builds on this and gives music fans a way to help reverse the epidemic of AIDS in Africa by listening to the music they love,” said Susan Smith Ellis, CEO, (RED). “Through partnerships like this, we've generated more than $140 million to support the Global Fund's fight against AIDS. (RED)'s growth is based in part on people like Dr. Dre, Lady Gaga, Jimmy Iovine and Noel Lee making a stand against a merciless epidemic. We're proud to have them partner with us.”

Explore the world of Monster at www.monstercable.com

For more information, please visit http://beatsbydre.com/

For more information, visit http://www.joinred.com/

Lady Gaga Teams With Polaroid

2010-01-08T03:37:00.000-08:00

Polaroid announced that pop sensation Lady Gaga will endorse Polaroid Cameras. Lady Gaga will work with the creative team to the company to design a new line of cameras.
The cameras will carry Lady Gaga’s pictures on them and will she will apply her sense of style to the line that's designed.

Happy Birthday, Elvis!

2010-01-08T02:06:00.000-08:00

Legend and icon, Elvis Presley, would have celebrated his 75th birthday today. Long live the king! Here is one of his best songs, "Suspicious Minds."

Avatar, Inglourious Basterds among films nominated for 2010 Directors Guild Award

2010-01-08T01:14:00.000-08:00

The science-fiction blockbuster "Avatar" has received a Best Director nomination from the Directors Guild of America. It's director, James Cameron, was a previous winner for the blockbuster Titanic which was the biggest box office earner of all time. Also nominated are Kathryn Bigelow for the War drama "The Hurt Locker," Lee Daniels for "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire," Jason Reitman for "Up in the Air" starring George Clooney and Quentin Tarantino for the World War II hit film "Inglourious Basterds."

Bigelow, Daniels and Reitman are first time nominees.

The guild announces TV, documentary and commercial nominations on Friday, January 8. Friday.

The Guild's Lifetime-Achievement Awards will go to director Norman Jewison, whose films include "In the Heat of the Night," "A Soldier's Story" and "Moonstruck," in which Cher won an Oscar.

Movie Trailer: Leap Year

2010-01-07T18:13:00.000-08:00

Amy Adams and Matthew Goode star in the new romantic comedy "Leap Year" opening this weekend beginning Friday, January 8th. Here's a look at the trailer below:

Big Bang Theory's Jim Parsons and Lea Michele of Glee Interview

2010-01-06T22:09:00.000-08:00

Breakout comedy stars Jim Parsons of "Big Bang Theory" and Lea Michelle of "Glee" sat down with The Hollywood Reporter to discuss their feelings on the audition process.

Movie Trailer: "When In Rome" starring Josh Duhamel and Kristen Bell

2010-01-06T03:33:00.000-08:00

It's that time again, the romantic comedies open in theaters every week from now until Valentine's Day. First up, "When In Rome" with Josh Duhamel and Kristen Bell.
Check out the trailer below. The movie opens January 29.

Victoria Rowell and Miguel Nunez support Children Uniting Nations in Los Angeles

2010-01-06T00:44:00.000-08:00

Children Uniting Nations [CUN], a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality mentoring relations for at-risk and foster youth, will hold a press conference on January 6th at the Los Angeles City Hall to discuss the importance of National Mentoring Month with support of celebrities and elected officials.

CUN was recently named the lead agency for National Mentoring Month in Los Angeles. National Mentoring Month (NMM) is an annual, concentrated burst of national and local media activity combined with White House, Congressional involvement and extensive community outreach. National Mentoring Month serves as a vehicle for institutionalizing our nation's commitment to long-term mentoring. Attending the event will be former "Young & The Restless" Victoria Rowell and actor Miguel Nunez. For More Information: Children Uniting Nations

All My Children Begins Production in Los Angeles

2010-01-04T19:29:00.000-08:00

ABC's daytime drama All My Children began production in Los Angeles today after 40 years of producing the Emmy Winning show in New York. Eyewitness News Channel 7 in Los Angeles talked to Susan Lucci about the change and what it means for the show.

Click here to view the video: ALL MY CHILDREN VIDEO.

All My Children 40th Anniversary Promo:

'Roots' and Michael Jackson Tour Acclaimed Cinematographer Joseph Wilcots Passes Away

2010-01-04T19:01:00.000-08:00

(Mr. Wilcots pictured on location)
(Press Release Los Angeles) -- JOSEPH M. WILCOTS, FAMED DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY “ROOTS,” the highly acclaimed mini-series and ’79 sequel "ROOTS: The Next Generations," CINEMATOGRAPHER for Michael Jackson (MJJ)Tours/Videos/Personal, and Oprah's TV show "The Women of Brewster's Place" passed away December 30th.

Following his groundbreaking credits in "Roots" and "The Women of Brewster's Place" , the “King of Pop,” the late Michael Jackson (MJJ), requested the DP services of Joseph M. Wilcots, also as a producer and director for numerous years, including the makings of “Remember the Time” and “In the Closet,” and various MJJ music videos and documentaries, such as "Michael Jackson Live In Bucharest: The Dangerous Tour," The “Bad” World Tour, and MJJ in Brazil, providing unique insight into the global entertainer’s life.

A major part of American history, as the first African-American to join Hollywood’s Camera Operators Union, Joseph M. Wilcots’ DP credits include "Bill Cosby: Himself," "Where the Red Fern Grows: Part 2," "Cornbread Earl & Me," "Matlock," and "Palmerstown," with earlier filming credits of "Lady Sings the Blues," "The Last Picture Show," "The Cowboys," "Star Trek," "My Three Sons," "Gunsmoke," "Mission: Impossible" and many others (see IMDB.com). Mr. Wilcots has worked with a stellar list who’s who in Hollywood, celebrities past and present. Joseph M. Wilcots concluded his illustrious career as director of photography on the new pilot, “Genius in Heels,” starring RaéVen Larrymore Kelly, Vernée Watson, Tonea Stewart, Rachel Grate, Jackson Davis, Reem Mahmood and Ralph Harris (directed by Fernandel Almonor).

Plans are being arranged for an industry dedication celebration, in the very near future, in honor of Joseph M. Wilcots.

Joan Rivers returns to E!'s 'Fashion Police'

2010-01-04T15:39:00.000-08:00

This year's Awards Season will be a lot more entertaining than previous years. The reason, comedian Joan Rivers is returning to E! Rivers will host a series of "Fashion Police" specials that critic the best and worst of Hollywood fashion at awards shows, starting with the Golden Globes episode of Monday, Jan. 18.

Joining Rivers on the panel of fashion judges will be Khloe Kardashian, Giuliana Rancic and Jay Manuel. Joan's daughter and former co-host Melissa Rivers will come on board as a producer.

"I am delighted to be back on E! and to have the opportunity to say what I think about the fashions on the red carpet," said Rivers in a statement announcing her return. "Most of all, I am thrilled to have my daughter Melissa producing. I know with Melissa at the helm, I can relax and say what I really want."

Joan Rivers served as the host of E!'s red carpet specials from 1996-2003 before jumping to TV Guide Network. Her commentary on the previous red carpet specials have been colorful to say the least. Her candor about some of the fashion misses help cement her as a television personality will says what she feels no matter what. With Rivers around, 2010 is going to be a lot more fun.

A Look back at 2009: The Year in Music

2009-12-31T04:42:00.000-08:00

2009 was the year that will probably be known as of "the year of the unlikely female singer". Two women went against the traditional and often very formula oriented music scene and made the year their own. Unless you were living under a rock or in the land of "Avatar" this year, you will know that the two women in question were country singer, Taylor Swift and British reality show and You Tube sensation, Susan Boyle.

Taylor Swift's rise to world wide fame began in 2008 when her album "Fearless" sold more than 2 million copies. She skyrocketed to fame in 2009 when "Fearless" was No. 1 on the Billboard 200 Chart for 11 weeks. Swift hosted "Saturday Night Live", was named CMA's Entertainer of The Year and was also named Artist of the Year by Billboard Magazine in 2009.

Maybe even more impressive than Swifts' success was the literal overnight sensation, Susan Boyle. Boyle first gained national attention in April as a contestant on "Britain's Got Talent." Boyle shocked and captured the hearts of the world by having a powerhouse superstar voice, a contrast to her "Plain Jane" stage appearance.

Boyle's first album "I Dreamed a Dream", released in November 2009, has been No. 1, entering it's fourth week on the charts with no signs of slowing down. Boyle's album had stiff competition on the charts from superstars such as Mary J. Blige, Andrea Bocelli and Rhianna who all released albums during the same period. Boyle has set records with sales of her album of covers and hers has become Amazon's best-selling album in pre-sales, ever.

Other top artists in 2009 were known for their antics on and off the stage more than for their album sales and accolades.

American Idol contestant Adam Lambert created a stir when he gave a controversial performance at the American Music Awards in November. The performance, in which the singer kissed another man and simulated oral sex on stage, generated a lot of debate about prime time broadcasting guidelines and whether or not the American television audience was gender bias about same sex male acts vs same sex female acts. Barbara Walters would name him one of her Ten Most Fascinating People of 2009 along with Sarah Palin, First Lady Michelle Obama and singer Lady Gaga.

The Black Eyed Peas dominated the singles charts for most of the year with their hit singles "Boom Boom Pow" and "I Gotta Feeling" holding both the top shots on the Billboard Hot 100 chart at the same time. Lead singer Fergie continue to branch out, co-hosting Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin Eve with Ryan Seacrest and by starring opposite Kate Hudson, Daniel Day-Lewis and Nicole Kidman in the movie musical "NINE."

Lady Gaga topped charts and wowed audiences with her outrageous performances. Her talent more than made up for some of her stage outfits. Although the singer may land on a lot of fashions "Worst Dressed Lists" the New Yorker's song "Bad Romance" was one of the best songs of the year.

Whitney Houston returned with an album entitled "I Look To You" and sat down for an interview about her colorful life with and without Bobby Brown with Oprah Winfrey. The episode was one the high rated shows of the season.

Television had a big influence on music as well. Thanks to the success of the new hit television show "Glee", timeless rock classics such as Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" and soulful ballads such as Jasmine Sullivan's "Bust Ya Windows" were introduced to an even broader audience. The show even coined a new phrase for blending two songs together with the word "mashup" being being picked up and added our pop culture language.

Lastly, to look back at music in 2009 is also painful as the music world reflects and continues to morn the loss of Michael Jackson. The music icon and now legend became even more fascinating and intriguing in his death. His music enjoyed continuous radio airplay and album sales skyrocketed again, something that Jackson managed to do in life and in death, a feat that might not ever be matched in music again.

"This Is It", the music documentary/concert film about the preparation for his upcoming concert tour was released and theaters were filled with Jackson fans from around the world. The Grammy Museum has an ongoing Michael Jackson retrospective and a display of his now legendary wardrobe from his stylish Mandarin jackets to his sequenced glove. His music film, "Thriller" was added the the Library of Congress' National Film Registry for preservation, a rare honor for a non-cinematic work. Jackson's memorial service drew more than 31 million television viewers in the US and was streamed live on the internet and movie theaters around the world.

There's no telling what 2010 has in store for the music world, but 2009 will be a tough act to follow.

Gene Simmons, Quincy Jones, Yoko Ono, Vince Gill among Music Stars headed to NAMM Show 2010

2009-12-29T22:34:00.000-08:00

The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) announced the line up of stars that will appear at the NAMM Show from January 14-17, 2010 at the Anaheim Convention Center. This trade-only show is an exclusive way from the music world to see and showcase all the latest products, instruments and music that will set trends for the upcoming year.

At the 2010 show, celebrity appearances will be made by Quincy Jones, Yoko Ono, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, Jason Mraz, Chad Smith, Nikki Sixx, Vince Gill, Orianthi, Weird Al Yankovic, Stevie Wonder, Sara Bareilles, DJ Jazzy Jeff and Peter Frampton.

Also on hand will be musicians and television stars, country singer Julianne Hough (Dancing with the Stars) and actor Jesse Spencer (House), are scheduled to appear to perform and talk about making music.

Highlights of The 2010 NAMM Show include:

Daily: Live Music Morning Show featuring a wide variety of acts.

Thursday, January 14 at 1:30pm: Yoko Ono, Quincy Jones and a host of other celebrities will show their support for music education and The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus in 2010 AT THE Wanna Play Lennon Bus Stage on the Plaza.

Friday, January 15: NAMM Icon Jam featuring Alan White, Lee Oskar, Liberty DeVito, Peter Tork and more.

Sunday, January 17: A performance by gospel legend Andrae Crouch at Roland.

For the latest information concerning all of the entertainment and live music events at the 2010 NAMM Show, please download NAMM's PLAYback Supplement at www.namm.org/thenammshow or call 800-767-NAMM (6266).

Stephen King and John Mellencamp To Write Broadway Musical

2009-12-28T19:05:00.000-08:00

John Mellencamp and Stephen King (pictured L-R) are collaborating on a musical. Titled "Ghost Brothers of Darkland Country", the musical is set to debut in Atlanta in September 2010.

Mellancamp has said to be working on the music since 2005 and has at least 15 songs written. King has written drafts for the musical as well.

Mellencamp described the musical in an interview that it is about two brothers who despise each other and discover that their father had two older brothers who also hated each other and killed each other in a cabin. The ghosts of the father’s brothers then haunt the sons.

The soundtrack album is expected to be released before the September 2010 premiere. Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow and Kris Kristofferson will all be featured on the album.

Both Mellencamp and King are in the cast of the show.

"Ghost Brothers of Darkland County" will premiere at the Alliance Theater in Atlanta in September, 2010.

Source

All My Children Celebrates 40th Anniversary on January 4 and 5

2009-12-28T13:35:00.000-08:00

ABC’s Emmy Award winning daytime drama, “All My Children” will celebrate its 40th
Anniversary on January 5, 2010. In celebration of this milestone, the show will welcome the return of Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos in two special episodes airing on MONDAY, JANUARY 4 and TUESDAY, JANUARY 5.

“It is always great to come home,” says Kelly Ripa in the networks official press release.

“As soon as a few of its colorful residents invaded my imagination over forty years ago, Pine Valley became my second home and family. A very large and loving family, beginning with the devoted writers and talented actors who bring the characters to life. Then production, from the executive producer and her staff, to studio crews, whose technical skills work the magic of television.
And all this done day, after day, after day. Finally, but most importantly are the millions of viewers over the decades whose loyalty to All My Children and its quixotic characters has kept us on the air for 40 years. To this family, I am forever grateful,” says show creator, Agnes Nixon.

Ripa, Consuelos and La Rue will be joined by a list of fan-favorite veterans to celebrate “All My Children’s” 40th anniversary including; Julia Barr, Laurence Lau, Taylor Miller, James Mitchell, Leven Rambin and Eden Riegel. In story, Pine Valley will be elected “The Most Congenial Town in America.” Hayley (Kelly Ripa) and Mateo (Mark Consuelos) return to their home town for Hayley to produce and host a documentary for her television show “The Wave,” as she interviews her family members, friends and citizens who all call Pine Valley home.

The timing of the two special episodes also marks a new and exciting beginning for “All My Children,” as January 4 is the show’s first day of production in Los Angeles. The state of the art studio will allow the show to move into the future, broadcasting in high definition with more expansive studio space and sets which will enable creative growth and storytelling. The show’s first HD broadcast is anticipated sometime in February.

“All My Children” has successfully maintained its popularity and continues to be one of daytime’s most compelling dramas. “All My Children” took home the 1998 Emmy Award for Outstanding Daytime Drama Series, the third time the show received this top honor, having also garnered the award in 1994 and 1992. In 2004 the show also received its third consecutive Emmy Award for Outstanding Daytime Drama Series Writing, its third Writers Guild Award and its fourth GLAAD Media Award in March 2007.

Created by Agnes Nixon, “All My Children” premiered on the ABC Television Network on
January 5, 1970, as a half-hour show; seven years later it expanded to an hour. Julie Hanan Carruthers is executive producer. “All My Children” will be produced in Los Angeles, beginning January 4th, 2010 and airs MONDAY-FRIDAY (1:00-2:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Tyra Banks To End Talk Show in 2010

2009-12-28T11:44:00.000-08:00

Talk show host and model, Tyra Banks, has announced that she plans to end her talk show at the end of the season. The former model and actress has hosted The Tyra Banks show since 2005.

“As many of you know, several years ago I made the decision to leave modeling -- at the height of my modeling career -- and although it was the most terrifying move, it was the BEST decision and led to me fulfilling some big lifelong dreams,” Banks said in a statement to fans on her website. “Now, I'm a bit nervous and excited for my next HUGE steps which will allow me to reach MORE women and young girls to help us all feel as fierce as we truly are!"

Banks other show, "America's Next Top Model" in which she serves as executive producer,host and judge will remain on the air.

Michael Jackson's 'This Is It' video directed by Spike Lee

2009-12-28T10:12:00.000-08:00

Director Spike Lee has a tribute to Michael Jackson in this video of "This Is It". Lee even traveled to Jackson's childhood home in Gary, Indiana for footage.

Michael Jackson - This Is It - Directed by Spike Lee from 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks on Vimeo.

People's Choice Awards: Favorite New Shows Voting Still Open

2009-12-28T01:12:00.000-08:00

Voting is still open for the 2010 People's Choice Awards in the Favorite New Show Categories.
Nominees for Favorite New TV Comedy are "Accidentally On Purpose", "Glee", "Modern Family", "Cleveland Show", "Cougar Town".
Nominees for Favorite TV Drama are "Flash Forward", "V", "The Good Wife", "The Vampire Diaries", "NCIS: Los Angeles"

Queen Latifah hosts the show which will be broadcast on Wednesday, January 6 on CBS.
For more info and to vote for your favorite show: VOTE NOW

NINE, Avatar and Inglourious Basterds Lead Critics Choice Awards Nominations

2009-12-28T00:23:00.000-08:00

The Critics Choice Movie Awards will be held live on Friday, January 15 and will be broadcast on VH1. This years show will be hosted by Kristen Chenoweth. The films "Inglourious Basterds" and "Nine" lead the nomination tallies with an astonishing 10 nominations each. Films "Avatar", "The Hurt Locker" and "Up In The Air" also were well received with multiple nominations.

"Inglourious Basterds" earned nominations for Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor, Best Ensemble, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Editing, Best Costume Design and Best Action Movie. "Nine" received nominations for Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress, Best Ensemble, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Editing, Best Costume Design, Best Makeup, Best Sound and Best Song.

In the acting categories, Saoirse Ronan was nominated in both the Best Actress and Best Young Actor/Actress categories for her role in "The Lovely Bones." Familiar faces in the actor category include former Oscar nominees and Oscar winners, George Clooney for "Up In The Air", Morgan Freeman for "Invictus", Jeff Bridges for "Crazy Heart", and Viggo Mortensen for "The Road." Rounding out the list of Best Actors are Colin Firth for "A Single Man" and Jeremy Renner for "The Hurt Locker."

The 15th Annual Critics' Choice Movie Awards also marks the addition of seven new award categories - Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Editing, Best Costume Design, Best Visual Effects, Best Makeup, and Best Sound. Additionally, the BFCA has returned to separating the screenwriting category into Original Screenplay and Adapted Screenplay.

NOMINEES FOR THE 15TH ANNUAL CRITICS' CHOICE MOVIE AWARDS

BEST PICTURE
Avatar
An Education
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
Invictus
Nine
Precious
A Serious Man
Up
Up In The Air

BEST ACTOR
Jeff Bridges - "Crazy Heart"
George Clooney - "Up In The Air"
Colin Firth - "A Single Man"
Morgan Freeman - "Invictus"
Viggo Mortensen - "The Road"
Jeremy Renner - "The Hurt Locker"

BEST ACTRESS
Emily Blunt - "The Young Victoria"
Sandra Bullock - "The Blind Side"
Carey Mulligan - "An Education"
Saoirse Ronan - "The Lovely Bones"
Gabourey Sidibe - "Precious"
Meryl Streep - "Julie & Julia"

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR
Matt Damon - "Invictus"
Woody Harrelson - "The Messenger"
Christian McKay - "Me And Orson Welles"
Alfred Molina - "An Education"
Stanley Tucci - "The Lovely Bones"
Christoph Waltz - "Inglourious Basterds"

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Marion Cotillard - "Nine"
Vera Farmiga - "Up In The Air"
Anna Kendrick - "Up In The Air"
Mo'Nique - "Precious"
Julianne Moore - "A Single Man"
Samantha Morton - "The Messenger"

BEST YOUNG ACTOR/ACTRESS
Jae Head - "The Blind Side"
Bailee Madison - "Brothers"
Max Records - "Where The Wild Things Are"
Saoirse Ronan - "The Lovely Bones"
Kodi Smit-McPhee - "The Road"

BEST ACTING ENSEMBLE
Inglourious Basterds
Nine
Precious
Star Trek
Up In The Air

BEST DIRECTING
Kathryn Bigelow - "The Hurt Locker"
James Cameron - "Avatar"
Lee Daniels - "Precious"
Clint Eastwood - "Invictus"
Jason Reitman - "Up In The Air"
Quentin Tarantino - "Inglourious Basterds"

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY
Mark Boal - "The Hurt Locker"
Joel Coen & Ethan Coen - "A Serious Man"
Scott Neustadter & Michael H. Weber - "(500) Days Of Summer"
Bob Peterson, Peter Docter - "Up"
Quentin Tarantino - "Inglourious Basterds"

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY
Wes Anderson, Noah Baumbach - "Fantastic Mr. Fox"
Neill Blomkamp, Terri Tatchell - "District 9"
Geoffrey Fletcher - "Precious"
Tom Ford, David Scearce - "A Single Man"
Nick Hornby - "An Education"
Jason Reitman, Sheldon Turner - "Up In The Air"

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
Barry Ackroyd - "The Hurt Locker"
Dion Beebe - "Nine"
Mauro Fiore - "Avatar"
Andrew Lesnie - "The Lovely Bones"
Robert Richardson - "Inglourious Basterds"

BEST ART DIRECTION
Dan Bishop - "A Single Man"
Rick Carter, Robert Stromberg - "Avatar"
John Myhre, Gordon Sim - "Nine"
Naomi Shohan, George De Titta, Jr. - "The Lovely Bones"
David Wasco, Sandy Reynolds Wasco - "Inglourious Basterds"

BEST EDITING
Dana E. Glauberman - "Up In The Air"
Sally Menke - "Inglourious Basterds"
Bob Murawski, Chris Innis - "The Hurt Locker"
Stephen Rivkin, John Refoua, James Cameron - "Avatar"
Claire Simpson, Wyatt Smith - "Nine"

BEST COSTUME DESIGN
Colleen Atwood - "Nine"
Janet Patterson - "Bright Star"
Sandy Powell - "The Young Victoria"
Anna Sheppard - "Inglourious Basterds"
Casey Storm - "Where The Wild Things Are"

BEST MAKEUP
Avatar
District 9
Nine
The Road
Star Trek

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS
Avatar
District 9
The Lovely Bones
Star Trek
2012

BEST SOUND
Avatar
District 9
The Hurt Locker
Nine
Star Trek

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE
Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs
Coraline
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Princess And The Frog
Up

BEST ACTION MOVIE
Avatar
District 9
The Hurt Locker
Inglourious Basterds
Star Trek

BEST COMEDY
(500) Days Of Summer
The Hangover
It's Complicated
The Proposal
Zombieland

BEST PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Gifted Hands
Grey Gardens
Into The Storm
Taking Chance

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM
Broken Embraces
Coco Before Chanel
Red Cliff
Sin Nombre
The White Ribbon

BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE
Anvil
Capitalism: A Love Story
The Cove
Food, Inc.
Michael Jackson's This Is It

For more about the Critics Choice Awards: visit the official website: Critic Choice Awards

Sheryl Lee Ralph to perform New Year's Eve Show In Los Angeles

2009-12-27T21:31:00.000-08:00

Singer SHERYL LEE RALPH (Sister Act 2, The Flintstones,Dreamgirls) will be ringing in the New Year by celebrating 2010" at Upright Cabaret on Vermont (located within Vermont Restaurant complex), 1714 N. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027. The multi-talented singer will appear on Wednesday and Thursday, December 30 and on New Year's Eve, December 31st.

The Broadway Legend, best known for her Tony Nominated role as Deena Jones in the original production of "Dreamgirls" will perform three shows where she will sing a wide range of songs, including Holiday favorites, Broadway show-stoppers and R&B including songs from "Dreamgirls"!

Ralph has entertained audiences for many years and has been instrumental in her efforts to raise money and awareness for HIV/AIDS related charities. "Simply Sheryl Lee" is your chance to get up close and personal with this smart, sexy and brilliantly talented songstress as she continues to raise money for the Diva (AIDS) Foundation.

Simply Sheryl Lee: Singin' & Swingin' into 2010 to benefit The Diva (AIDS) Foundation
Three rare solo cabaret performances:
Wed, Dec 30, 2009, Showtime 9pm (The Diva's Birthday)
Thurs, Dec 31, 2009, Showtime 7:30pm
Thurs, Dec 31, 2009, Showtime 10:30pm

Tickets: $80-125, available online (www.uprightcabaret.com/events) or at the door (if available). Ticket price includes Entertainment, 3-Course Pre-Fixe Meal, Tax & Gratuity (Champagne Toast is included for the Dec 31/10:30pm performance only). Additional liquor, wine, beer and beverages are available.

Only at Upright Cabaret on Vermont! (located within Vermont Restaurant complex), 1714 N. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027. For more info about Upright Cabaret including show times, tickets and scheduled performers, please visit us at www.UprightCabaret.com

Jimmy Fallon and The Muppets sing "The Twelve Days Of Christmas"

2009-12-24T13:19:00.000-08:00

Last night Jimmy Fallon and The Muppets sang "The Twelve Days Of Christmas" on "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon". As usual Miss Piggy got the best solo but Fozzy stole the spotlight. Check it out below:
Happy Holidays to all from Spotlight On Entertainment!!!