People in the News

Thomas Kinkade "Painter of Light" Dies at 54

2012-04-07T08:53:00.003-07:00

He was one of the most famous artists in this era. Thomas Kinkade is now dead at the age of 54.

His works are seen across the globe. On average, one in 20 homes display a Thomas Kinkade painting.

His sudden death hit the news on Good Friday. Just before Christians celebrate Easter, Kinkade's passing reminds us that life is so very short.

According to reports, Kinkade died from natural causes.

Through his art and inspirational works, Kinkade leaves a legacy of beauty unmatched by others.

For more on this story visit, "Painter of Light Thomas Kinkade dies at 54"

Jack Wagner Elimination from Dancing With The Stars

2012-04-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

"We were doing the best we can," Jack Wagner said. "We're disappointed. It's shocking! I think anybody who would have gotten eliminated tonight would have been pretty shocked because all of the scores were so good. So it's us and we move on, life's not going to end, hopefully. We just take some great memories."

tv.msn.com/reality-tv/dancing-with-the-stars-season-14

After Tuesday's elimination round on DWTS, fans were shocked to see one of their favorites leave the show. Jack Wagner along with partner Anna Trebunskaya was sent packing.

Monday's episode of Dancing With The Stars was emotional. Each celebrity selected a song from their most memorable year. With emotions running high, they were all on top of their game, Jack Wagner included.

Wagner shared his memorable year of meeting his daughter for the first time. The 52-year-old actor danced the Samba to "Lighting Up the Night." It was a fitting tribute to celebrate the reunion of his daughter.

With so many great moments and dances that evening, it was hard to say goodbye. Yet we all know the the rules of this reality dance competition.

The one with the lowest score goes home.

Unfortunately it was Jack Wagner, the former General Hospital soap heart-throb. Fans of the GH and Melrose Place actor were disappointed to see him go, but the show must go on.

DWTS continues Monday night, April 9, 2012.

'Dancing with the Stars': Celebrities, pros light dance floor on fire for Week 1

2012-03-20T19:02:00.000-07:00

The new Season of DWTS premiered Monday night. Season 14 is starting out with some real head turners.

DWTS William Levy and Cheryl Burke
(ABC/ADAM TAYLOR)

With several stars in the line ready to kick up their heels and strut their stuff, this year has clearly shined on some noticeable winners.

For the ladies, this season has a line up of great looking men hoping to take the trophy all the way.

There's legendary soap star, "Frisco Jones" from "General Hospital" who is also well-known for his starring role on "Melrose Place." Dancing and swooning, Jack Wagner can sing, act, and on Monday, viewers witnessed his dancing moves.

Football pro Donald Driver got the classic moves and his cha-cha-cha was well stepped.

The ladies may love Cool J. but they really loved William Levy. The Telenovella Latin actor (pictured here with Cheryl Burke) was not only sexy and charismatic but he just may be the one to watch this season.

Handsome and sexy, these dancing stars are a great addition to the already top-notched dancing pros. Max Chmerkovskiy still rocks the house while this season he's joined by brother Val.

The men have it this year. With the season pros and the new star line up, DWTS will be a ladies night event.

Dancing with the Stars can be seen on ABC Monday nights with Tuesday eliminations. In case you missed the Premiere, watch it Online ABC Television.

Recommended Article: 'Dancing with the Stars': Celebrities, pros light dance floor on fire for Week 1 - San Jose Mercury News

Joe Paterno Dead at 85

2012-01-22T08:54:00.000-08:00

The legendary former Penn State coach passed away Sunday, Joe Paterno dead at 85.

The Paterno family released this statement announcing his death:
"He died as he lived. He fought hard until the end, stayed positive, thought only of others and constantly reminded everyone of how blessed his life had been. His ambitions were far reaching, but he never believed he had the leave this Happy Valley to achieve them. He was a man devoted to his family, his university, his players and his community."

The Penn State community gathered at Joe's statue to prayer and light candles. On Saturday, announcements came that Paterno's health was serious. The cancer was taking its toll on the former coach and the outlook looked grim. On Sunday, the news came.

During his career, Paterno won on the field 409 games, took his team to 37 bowl games and two national championship games. Over 250 football players that he coached went on to play in the NFL.

Paterno once said, "Believe deep down in your heart that you're destined to do great things."

In so many ways, the beloved coach lived by his own words.

"He will go down as the greatest football coach in the history of the game," said Urban Meyer, Ohio State's coach.

Paterno was stricken with lung cancer soon after his firing over the Jerry Sandusky scandal broke. After the scandal of Sandusky's alleged sexual abuse of 10 young boys, the coach had this to say.

"This is a tragedy. It is one of the great sorrows of my life," Paterno said. "With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I had done more."

The former Penn State coach was loved by many. Paterno's death leaves a gaping hole for all those who loved him.

Beyoncé Delivers Baby Girl Ivy Blue Carter or is it Blue Ivy

2012-01-08T06:12:00.000-08:00

Reports are out. It’s official. Beyoncé and Jay-Z are the proud parents of Blue Ivy Carter.

The name change came out after reports stated the couple officially named their newborn, Blue Ivy not Ivy Blue as first reported.

Credit photobucket/albums/w40/sugarsweet08

The 30-year-old singer and her husband, Jay-Z rented an entire fourth floor wing of a New York hospital for a reported $1.3 million.

Blocking off the area, hospital staff were asked to turn in their cell phones when they arrived. Keeping the press at bay and not allowing any photographs to be taken by employees or staff, the couple kept the area private.

Several celebrities tweeted their “congratulations” to the famous couple.

“Welcome to the world princess Carter! Love Aunty Rih,” Rihanna tweeted.

“Congrats to my good friends Beyonce and Jay-Z”, tweeted Russell Simmons.

A new life begins as the famous couple celebrates the birth of their first child.

Notable Deaths in 2011 and their Inspirational Quotes

2011-12-31T09:41:00.000-08:00

Among those notable deaths we lost in 2011, celebrities and visionaries top the list.

In honor of those celebrities, we look back at some of their memorable quotes.

In memoriam, we pay tribute to some of those celebrities who died in 2011, by honoring their lives, and the words they spoke.

In Memoriam 2011: Notable Deaths We Remember

With some of their own inspirational quotes to pay tribute, we honor their memory.

This isn’t necessarily their famous last words, but certainly words to live by.

People in the News looks back in Memoriam of 2011: Celebrity deaths and their inspirational quotes.

Jon Bon Jovi says Heaven looks a lot like New Jersey

2011-12-19T18:54:00.000-08:00

Jon Bon Jovi Photo Credit David Bergman

Jon Bon Jovi is alive and well. Yet another online death hoax twisted a story to say Jon Bon Jovi died from cardiac arrest.

In this photo reveal, Jon Bon Jovi posted on his Facebook page, he stands in front of a decorated Christmas tree.

Holding a sign with a date and time stamp reveals Dec. 19, 2011 6:00 Jon looks very healthy.

The poster reads, "Heaven looks a lot like New Jersey".

A great play on words to announce he's still rockin' around the Christmas tree.

These false deaths pop up randomly through out the year. The Jersey native found a great way to show the media he is doing pretty great.

Like a song played out from one of his concerts, Wanted: Dead or Alive, Bon Jovi is still going strong.

Alec Baldwin on SNL American Airline Spoof

2011-12-11T09:06:00.001-08:00

Alec Baldwin has been all over the news headlines lately after being kicked off an American Airline flight for refusing to turn off his device while playing the game, "Words With Friends".

This weekend, Baldwin was featured on Saturday Night Live in a spoof that poked fun at the incident.

Saturday Night Live/NBC

Baldwin, posing as an airline pilot Captain Steve Rogers, came on saying he needed to apologize to Alec Baldwin.

"It was very important for me to come here tonight," Captain Rogers said, "on behalf of everyone at American Airlines to issue an apology to Mr. Alec Baldwin."

In the Seth Meyers "Weekend Update," Seth turns to him and says, "Alec, are you sure this is the right way to handle this?"

"Keep going," Alec whispers. The audience was filled with laughter as the skit continued.

Meyers asks the Captain, "Don't phones interfere with the communications system?"

Captain Rogers responds, "Oh you don't believe that, do you Seth? Would you really get on an airplane that flew 30,000 feet in the air if you thought one kindle switch could take it down?"

"Come on," he says. "It's just a cruel joke perpetrated by the airline industry and we would have gotten away with it but Alec Baldwin was just too smart for us."

The SNL spoof aired on Saturday by poking fun at himself and making fun of the whole situation.

In this surprise appearance, some wonder was it really that funny or even necessary to continue in his slaughter against the airline? Viewers can Watch the episode here.

Rachel Crow Meltdown on X-Factor

2011-12-09T14:20:00.001-08:00

Rachel Crow breaks down in tears after being sent home from X-Factor. Some are now questioning whether age is a factor in these types of reality shows. The 12-year collapsed in front of the live audience after it was determined she would be sent home.

Credit: Ray Mickshaw/FOX

In her ‘save me’ song, the young talent gave a rising performance of “I’d Rather Go Blind” by Etta James. It was up to judges who they would send home; Rachel Crow or Marcus Canty. The judges gave their reactions and voted who should be sent home. It was left up to final judge Nicole Scherzinger.

“I can’t do this,” Nicole responded. If Nicole chooses Marcus, he would go home. If she chooses Rachel, it would go to deadlock. The audience would decide.

“I have to go to deadlock,” Nicole said wiping tears from her eyes.

The audience eliminated young Rachel. It was an emotional moment for everyone on stage. Collapsing into tears, Rachel’s mother comes running to her aide. Rachel’s meltdown was seen live. “Mommy,” she cries. “You promised me.”

In this emotionally awkward moment, many are asking if the competition and stress is too much for young talent. Watch the elimination here.

It was just several weeks ago when 15-year-old Astro sparked anger after finding himself in the bottom two. Young Astro almost refused to sing in the elimination round and Simon was quick to respond. Later Astro apologized for his reaction.

This season’s X-Factor has showcased some great talent. Rachel Crow’s talent is strong. She is still a winner. This young girl is just entering her dreams of super-stardom. She is definitely going places.

The final four contestants now remain: Chris Rene, Josh Krajcik, Melanie Amaro, and Marcus Canty. Who will win X-Factor?

Watch performances on the Fox Network on Wednesdays with Thursday’s live elimination round.

Remembering Pearl Harbor

2011-12-07T08:53:00.001-08:00

U.S. Navy battleship USS Arizona (BB-39) explode shortly after 08:00 hrs
during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

On this day, we remember 70 years ago. December 7, 1941 a date which will live in infamy.

Read the words from Franklin D. Roosevelt in this famous Pearl Harbor Speech . FDR . WGBH American Experience | PBS

It was FDR's famous request for Congress on December 8, 1941 to declare war following the Japanese attacks of December 7th against Pearl Harbor.

If you see the American flag flying at half staff today, it is tradition, to honor those who died.

On this National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we reflect on what happened that day and all those lives which were lost.

Bradley Cooper Thinks Ryan Gosling is Sexiest Man Alive

2011-12-04T06:37:00.001-08:00

Bradley Cooper is the Sexiest Man Alive according to People Magazine. In the annual unveiling of People's sexiest people, Cooper was selected number one.

Like others who were named the sexiest in the past, Cooper doesn't feel very sexy. In fact, Cooper has said he believes Ryan Gosling actually deserves the title.

Bradley Cooper Ryan Gosling

Photo Credit Wenn Photo Credit IMDb

Both actors are qualified figures in Hollywood. Both actors have contributed greatly in the movie industry. With amazing films under their belts, Cooper and Gosling are the "new sexy for young Hollywood."

Recently Cooper said, "It's so awful that I'm admitting this but the hell with it -- there was such a backlash to when they announced it. Ryan Gosling, who I love and I just did a movie with him, he's the greatest."

Cooper is still trying to come to terms with his new title. These are high expectations.

He says,"It's the worst! It's just so awful. I'm finally at an age, I'm 36 years old, where I really don't care about anything like that anymore, which is a wonderful thing. Then this sexy title happened and I started to realise how not sexy I am. I have a lot of moments where I'll be walking out, I open up the door and think, 'I could do that a lot sexier. That was not very sexy at all!'"

Of course, many would say Cooper doesn't have to do much to be sexy. The man is charismatic and charming. He elegantly speaks fluent French and his humbling traits illustrate just how sexy the star can be. This does not discount the rising star of Ryan Gosling. The actor who is just starting to see his star shine, in his recent movie, Crazy, Stupid Love, Gosling is irresistible. He lacks nothing and resembles the true sexy. The film gives Gosling his due and his charm splashes all over the screen.

When Cooper talks about Gosling he sees it too. "There's him walking around and he literally looks like he's in a photo shoot, like he just came off the runway," Cooper said.

If fans want to know more about these two Hollywood hunks, check out their profiles. Ryan Gosling has movie credits including The Notebook and Fracture. Bradley Cooper starred in movies like The Hangover and Limitless. These actors are seasoned with charisma, charm and good looks.

Which one is sexier? That's all in perspective. All the woman just sigh!

Billy Graham in Hospital Being Treating for Pneumonia

2011-12-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

Evangelist Billy Graham, 93, is in the hospital and being treated for pneumonia. Officials say he is in great spirits and reportedly in stable condition at the hospital in Asheville, North Carolina.

It was just last May that the Christian televangelist was treated for pneumonia. His declining health over the years has not stopped him from continuing his good news message.

Billy Graham's latest book, "Nearing Home: Life, Faith and Finishing Well" are inspirational reflections over his life. The book exemplifies Graham's faith and discusses topics like aging gracefully.

In the book he says, "As I look back, I see how God’s hand guided me. I sense His Spirit with me today, and most comforting is the knowledge that He will not forsake me during this last stretch as I am nearing home."

On Wednesday night, Graham was admitted to the hospital after suffering with cough, congestion, and fever. Initial tests and X-rays were performed and the doctors admitted Graham for treatment of pneumonia. Reports state he is resting comfortably and responding well to the antibiotics.

No discharge date has yet been set, however Graham is hopeful he will be home by Christmas.

CMA Christmas Special

2011-12-02T05:06:00.001-08:00

Country music artists celebrated Christmas in their annual CMA Christmas special. The country legends performed classic Christmas songs with behind the scenes interviews.

Vince Gill and Amy Grant talk about their favorite Christmas memory.

During the 2-hour television special, CMA Country Christmas on ABC Television, country musicians talked about their favorite Christmas memories.

Joined by members of their family, these artists gave a glimpse into their personal lives and what Christmas means to each of them.

The Country Christmas special was hosted by Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland.

Singing the Christmas classics, performances included Darius Rucker, Martina McBride, Faith Hill, Keith Urban, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Rascal Flatts and American Idol stars Scotty McCreery, Kellie Pickler, and Lauren Aliana. With special performances by Brian Setzer and Brad Paisley.

CMA Country Christmas, a two-hour concert special aired Thursday (Dec. 1) at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. The special featured numerous holiday classics as well as fireside chats with the artists and their families.

A tremendous blend of Christmas traditions and grand performances, this television special was one not to miss. If you didn't get a chance to see the program, catch the rerun online at ABC Television Network. This program will repeat Saturday, December 17 from 9:00-11:00 p.m., ET.

Dancing With The Stars Finale Performances

2011-11-21T16:42:00.001-08:00

Monday night performances is the beginning of the 2-night Dancing With The Stars Finale. Three celebrities and three dancing pros are left.

(From L.to R.) JR Martinez/Rikki Lake/Rob Kardashian. Credit: DWTS

J.R. Martinez, Rikki Lake, and Rob Kardashian are competing for the mirror ball trophy. The fan favorite is J.R. Martinez who is most favored to win.

Dancing two routines including the most anticipated free-style dance, the three pairings went head-to-head for the championship.

Rikki Lake looked awesome. Getting spun around, and working those dance steps from one routine into the next, she was amazing.

Rob’s freestyle performance was dancing to “Minnie the Moocher”. Rob’s steps were on-time and in rhythm. He blew the judges away. “You peaked at the right time,” said judge Bruno. Receiving all 10’s, it was a perfect score.

J.R. Martinez was up next and did just as well, walking away with another perfect 10 across the board for his free style performance. With flips and spins J.R. was on fire.

The finale airs Tuesday night, Nov. 22. Watch it live on ABC Television at 8 p.m. CT as the full Season 13 cast returns with a special performance by Lady Antebellum.

Who will win Season 13 on Dancing With the Stars? It's any one's guess.

The 39th American Music Awards: Who Will Win

2011-11-20T15:18:00.001-08:00

The 39^th American Music Awards will be broadcast Sunday, November 20, 2011 at 8 p.m. ET.

Adele performs in Seattle, WA 2011

Credit Niko D/Creative Commons

Scheduled performances include Nicki Minaj, Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez (although they won’t be performing together).

Other performances include Maroon 5, Kelly Clarkson, Daughtry, Mary J. Blige, and Justin Bieber.

The acclaimed Artist of the Year nominees includes four females and one male entertainer. They are: Adele (pictured), Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift.

Here are some of the other nominees:

Bruno Mars, Justin Bieber and Pitbull are up for Favorite Male Artist in Pop or Rock.
Adele, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry are nominated for Favorite Female Artist in Pop or Rock.
Maroon 5, OneRepublic, and LMFAO are up for Favorite Band, Duo or Group in Pop or Rock.
Sara Evans, Miranda Lambert, and Taylor Swift are nominated for Favorite Female Artist in County.
Brad Paisley, Jason Aldean, and Blake Shelton are nominated for Favorite Male Artist in Country.
The Band Perry, Zac Brown Band, and Lady Antebellum are up for Favorite Band, Duo or Group in Country.
Chris Brown, Usher, and Trey Songz are nominated for Favorite Male Artist in Soul/Rhythm and Blues.
Beyonce, Rihanna, and Kelly Rowland are nominated for Favorite Female Artist in Soul/Rhythm and Blues.
For Contemporary Inspirational the artist nominees include, Casting Crowns, Third Day, and TobyMac.

Who will win? Who will perform? Who will cry during their acceptance speech?

Watch live online at ABC.go.com. The show promises to feature some unique collaboration. One never knows what to expect during Sunday’s live performances.

Country Music Performance at the White House

2011-11-18T17:02:00.001-08:00

The White House honors Country Music on November 21 at 7 p.m. ET. The event will be streamed live on pbs.org/whitehouse and whitehouse.gov/live.

PBS.org

Performances include Dierks Bentley, Darius Rucker, Kris Kristofferson, Alison Krauss, Lyle Lovett, the Band Perry, and legendary James Taylor.
The annual PBS show will feature mostly country music.

Taping for the “In Performance at the White House” will be held in the East Room.

President Barack Obama and the first lady will host the event.

In a press conference issued by the White House, the event is slated to feature an afternoon of educational workshops. Produced by The Grammy Museum, middle and high school students will learn the “History of Country Music: From Barn Dances to Pop Charts”.

Some of the country artists performing in the evening concert will share their experiences of country music and answer students’ questions during the afternoon workshops.

The hour long music special will air on PBS stations nationwide Nov. 23 at 8 p.m. ET. Check your local stations for times and listings.

Natalie Wood's Death Investigation Continues to Stir Questions

2011-11-18T15:21:00.001-08:00

The developing story continues to unfold. The mysterious death of Natalie Wood in 1981 was reopened Thursday for investigation.

Credit AP Photo

Natalie Wood's death was ruled as an accidental drowning. On Friday, the L.A. County Sheriff's Department held a press conference announcing they are reopening the case, based on new leads in her death.

News reports state the former captain of the yacht, Splendour revealed new details on what happened that night. In the captain's book, coauthored with Marti Rulli, it says, Natalie Wood argued with her husband Robert Wagner that night right before her death.

The captain claims her husband, actor Robert Wagner is responsible for Natalie Wood’s death.

At Friday's press conference, the L.A. County Sheriff's Department said Wagner is not a suspect but the investigation is ongoing.

On that fateful night, Christopher Walken was on the yacht. He said he resigned to his cabin and fell asleep. When he awoke, he found out about Natalie's death.

What really happened that night? Follow People in the News as this story develops. Was she murdered? Did she try to flee an argument then fell into the dark waters to her death? Will new evidence reveal the truth behind this mystery?

Hope Goes Home JR Stays for 'DWTS' Finals

2011-11-15T19:01:00.001-08:00

Dancing With the Stars results on Tuesday, sent home Hope Solo and dance pro Maxsim Chmerkovskiy.

It was a close call for J.R. Martinez who almost was sent home. J.R. suffered with an ankle injury during Monday's live performance. Fans who want J.R. to win the title ball trophy were happy to hear he will move on to the finals.

Hope Solo wasn't so lucky. Her votes were down and she was sent packing. With the recent tension between the pair and the judges, it was getting intense. Just a few weeks ago, Maxsim had some not-so-nice words with judge Len Goodman that caused many to wonder if Maxsim really wanted to be on the show.

The results were expected. Hope's performance was up against some tough competition. After hearing the news of being voted off, Maxsim said to Hope, "Thank you for your determination and will and everything else. I wish I could have been better for you. It's been an amazing journey."

The following three stars will continue, Rikki Lake, J.R. Martinez, and Rob Kardashian are going to the finals.

In a remarkable turn of events, Rob's dancing outperformed others during Monday's show. He is clearly moving up the ranks and has a good fighting chance.

Here at People in the News, there is a prediction who will win that coveted mirror ball trophy. Watch the Dancing With The Stars finals next week . With the anticipated freestyle dance, the finale is certainly going to be exciting.

Revenge the New Hit Drama Series on ABC Television

2011-11-12T17:18:00.001-08:00

The new hit television series, Revenge, is creatively one of the best shows in this season’s fall schedule. The drama series cast lead includes “Emily Thorne” portrayed wonderfully by actress Emily VanCamp.

Emily VanCamp by Carol Kaelson/ABC

Emily turns the Hampton town into a series of vengeful acts. Filled with intrigue and suspense, this small town is unaware of Emily Thorne’s real identity.

Emily is hiding a big secret. Without knowing the real truth about Emily, the unsuspecting people in this Hampton community are about to see her wrath.

She is seeking payback to the community of people who stole away her childhood. Those individuals who sent her father to prison and had her committed when she was a child are in for some big surprises.

When she discovers the truth behind her father’s imprisonment, she plots her retribution.

Betrayed by a community, she sets her plan into motion.

In the pilot episode, she rents the Southampton home she once shared with her father and begins to put her plan into action.

Victoria Grayson played by Madeleine Stowe has her own suspicions. Who is Emily Thorne? What is her story? She sets out to uncover the truth, while Emily Thorne continues in her charade. Emily is really Amanda Clarke, that little girl Victoria had locked up.

Emily is playing a travesty with one intention. To get back at those who ruined her family. The plotting and deceit continues to play out during subsequent episodes.

Broken trusts and relentless betrayal play the backdrop during this first season of Revenge. Each week the story continues.

Who will be Emily’s next victim? Revenge airs Wednesday nights on ABC Television. Viewers can catch past episodes on TVGuide and Hulu TV.

Hillary Clinton's Mother Dorothy Rodham Died

2011-11-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

Dorothy Rodham was born in Chicago and raised her family in Park Ridge, IL. The mother of Hillary Rodham Clinton died on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2011. She was 92.

Secy of State Hillary Clinton Swearing-in
with mom, Dorothy Rodham present in 2009

One of the most famous woman today, Secretary of the State Hillary Clinton had this to say about her mother. "My mother was basically abandoned as a young girl and by the age of 13, she was on her own."

In Clinton's memoir, Living History, she said, "I'm still amazed at how my mother emerged from her lonely early life as such as affectionate and levelheaded woman."

An amazing woman who taught what it means to be an phenomenal woman. Rodham gave an incredible legacy to her family.

"I owe it to my mother, who never got a chance to go to college, who had a very difficult childhood, but who gave me a belief that I could do whatever I set my mind," Clinton said.

This is a mother to be admired. Hillary Clinton cancelled her trip to London to be at her side.

The family plans to hold a private memorial service.

‘In Living Color’ returns to Fox TV

2011-10-28T19:25:00.000-07:00

Keenen Ivory Wayans, Marlon Wayans and Shawn Wayans
Steve Granitz/WireImage.com

The show made famous by creator Keenen Ivory Wayans, In Living Color will return for two specials in the spring of 2012.

The ensemble cast of characters turned unknown comedians into famous actors and actress. The Wayans brothers fashioned recurring sketches that became popular with each episode.

The original show helped launch the careers of Jamie Foxx and Jim Carrey besides the Wayans family.

Homey D. Clown may soon find his way back into the spotlight saying, “I don’t think so…Homey don’t play that.” Another of Damon Wayans characters, Anton was a homeless man who frequented family gatherings.

Never without his lone pickle in the jar, Anton was, one strange character.

Jim Carrey’s wild sense of humor in the characters he played while on In Living Color was a glimpse into the essence of this rising, whacky comic star. His psychotic character, “Fire Marshal Bill” demonstrated unsafe fire calamities that caused him harm.

Other famous faces from the original cast include Dancing with the Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba who was a regular ‘Fly Girl’ dancer alongside the now famous Jennifer Lopez.

Written and created by Keenen and Damon Wayans, the original sketch comedy television series ran from 1990 to 1994. The Fox comedy variety show will return in the spring with the hopes to become a series. Host Keenen Ivory Wayans will return with a fresh new cast of characters.

Lionel Richie has gone country with a new duet album

2011-10-27T18:13:00.000-07:00

http://www.lionelrichie.com/

Lionel Richie is teaming up with several country artists on his next album, Tuskegee. The album expected to be released in March 2012 will feature duets with leading country superstars.

Singing some of the songs made famous by Richie, artists such as Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney and many others will duet.

The former lead singer of the Commodores has called this album a return to his country roots.

Richie, born and raised in Tuskegee, Alabama, says, “I am a country boy and proud of it. To do this project just felt natural.”

Richie knew early on the audience he had involved more than R&B fans. “As my songwriting progressed,” Richie said, “I realized that my songs perfectly translated to the country genre.”

“Growing up with country, R&B, gospel and classical music from my grandmother and pop, Tuskegee was the perfect melting pot for my influences as a writer. The title, Tuskegee, is a validation of my growing up there…the place I call home,” Richie said.

Songs featured on this album include13 duets of Richie’s biggest hits. Jennifer Nettles of the Sugarland duo sings “Hello” and Tim McGraw sings, “Sail On”.

CMT News featured the full track listing. Some of the songs include:

“Stuck on You” (Darius Rucker)

“Dancing on the Ceiling” (Rascal Flatts)

“Endless Love” (Shania Twain)

“My Love” (Kenny Chesney)

While Kenny Rogers sings “Lady” the song written by Richie, and made famous by both.

The legendary R&B singer/songwriter gained fame performing in the 70s with the Commodores. After embarking on a solo career in the 80s, he achieved great success winning five Grammys and numerous others awards, including an Academy Award.

Hosting the 12^th Annual American Music Awards in 1985, Richie called it ‘outrageous’. A word that stuck with him for years as his music continued to climb the charts.

The 45^th Annual CMA awards will air live in Nashville on November 9. Richie is expected to perform along with other country artists, Rascal Flatts, Little Big Town, and Darius Rucker.

The 62-year old singer is not stopping yet. He will be “Dancing on the Ceiling” with this bound-for-success country album. It is a must for any country music fan as Richie’s love ballads are truly, sweet inspiration.

President Barack Obama appears on Jay Leno Tonight Show

2011-10-26T06:05:00.000-07:00

Jason Reed, Reuters / October 25, 2011

President Barack Obama appeared on the Jay Leno Show Tuesday night. It was his second appearance on the late night talk show.

Obama talked about the latest news of pulling the troops out of Iraq. He expressed his gratitude and praised the troops for their dedication.

The president was met with applause as he shared his viewpoints about the happenings in the country. He commended Secretary of State Hilary Clinton for the work she's doing, calling her tenacious.

“The truth is Hilary and I agree on the vast majority of issues. She stepped up to the plate and she works as hard as anyone I’ve ever seen. The entire national security team we have has been outstanding,” Obama said.

Obama stated when it comes to homeland security everyone has to be on the same page. “So the question now is, as we end the war in Iraq, it’s time to rebuild this country," he said. "Can we get that same cooperation when it comes to fixing what’s wrong here.”

The president wasn’t without humor as he shared his thoughts with host Jay Leno.

What about chicken and waffles? Leno put Obama on the spot when he asked him about a recent story. Weren’t you seen at the Los Angeles chicken establishment, Roscoes? Obama laughed as he talked about eating chicken wings in the presidential limo. It smelled good he said.

“We were on our way to a fundraiser. I didn’t know it was so close by. We pulled up and there I was with chicken fingers and a spot of hot sauce on my tie,” Obama joked.

The president spoke with great pride as he talked about his two girls. They are doing wonderfully. They just grow up so fast. They are thriving. It’s amazing how steady, well-mannered, and kind they are. They are good people much to the credit of Michelle.

Leno asked him about reality show, The Kardashians. “Have you seen the show,” Leno asked. “No I have not seen it," Obama said. "Do you recommend it Jay?” He later mentioned his daughters don’t watch television during the week but believes they have seen the show.

“Have you been watching the GOP presidential debates?” Leno asked.

“I’m going to wait until everybody is voted off the island,” Obama said. “Once they narrow it down to one or two, I’ll start paying attention.”

To see the full episode, go to NBC’s The Tonight Show.

Michael Jackson’s Nurse Testified in Tears

2011-10-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

Paul Buck-Pool/ Getty Images

An emotional defense witness, Michael Jackson’s nurse testified in the case against Dr. Conrad Murray on Tuesday. As Cherilyn Lee recalled the last days of the late singer, she was brought to tears.

As a nutritionist, Lee treated Jackson with several natural remedies to help him as he planned his comeback concert.

This was the second day for Lee to testify in the Dr. Murray case. On Monday, she began her testimony recalling the nutritional cocktails she gave Jackson to treat him for exhaustion. On the witness stand, one could tell the nurse practitioner was visually upset.

She recalled Jackson asking her to help him with his insomnia. When Jackson asked her to obtain the drug Dipravan, the brand name for Propofol, she had to do some research. Lee admitted she didn’t know much about the drug.

In April 2009, just a couple of months before Jackson’s death, she met again with Jackson. She told him the drug was not recommended for home use, it was used in hospital settings.

Prosecutor David Walgren questioned Lee, “You told him, “No one who cares or has your best interest at heart is going to give you this’. Is that correct?”

Lee confirmed that is correct. She testified in court this is what she told the late singer. She said she never saw Jackson after that.

Moments before she was to testify on Tuesday, she started feeling dizzy. The court took a brief recess in the morning so Lee could take a moment to rest. Reports indicate she burst into tears in the hallway. It was apparent this case meant a lot to her.

Dr. Murray watched intensely while Lee recalled her discussions with Jackson. She said Jackson told her it was safe as long as he was monitored. “He told me doctors have told him that he’s safe and he would not have a problem that he just needed to be monitored,” Lee recalled.

Lee said she asked Jackson, “What if you didn’t wake up?”

The defense team continues to mount their case, trying to portray Jackson as one who was addicted to drugs. The late singer had trouble sleeping. Nurse Lee refused to give him the drug he desired.

The defense is expected to rest their case by the end of the week.

Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon reveal baby twins

2011-10-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

On Friday night’s episode of 20/20, Mariah Carey and husband Nick Cannon introduced their baby twins to National television.

Nick Cannon Photo by David Shankbone

Mariah Carey

It was the first time the babies were seen on camera.

The twins, Moroccan and Monroe, nicknamed Roc and Roe for short, were born on the couple’s third wedding anniversary, April 30.

Now 6-months old, the twins have their own website.

In honor of their life, from the love of their celebrity parents, the website, DemBabies.com was launched.

The website captures the essence of why the couple decided to create this online album. It partly reads, “We deliberated for so long about how to reveal the first pictures of our babies to the world. We just didn’t want to do the typical thing and display them in a tabloid (not that there’s anything wrong with that).”

“We decided to share this beautiful experience with you in a special intimate portrait of our family. Parenthood is absolutely the most life changing experience we could ever have imagined. The love we feel for these babies is above and beyond anything we’d ever dreamed of.”

In the exclusive interview with Barbara Walters, the couple talked about the joys and challenges of pregnancy and raising twins. For Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon, this is a joyous celebration. “DemBabies” are beautiful.