Going Astray

I sat down with Michigan rapper Astray. Check it out below!

Didn't Khloe learn ANYTHING from her big sister?

I've watched MAYBE a total of five episodes of Keeping with the Kardashians, but in that short time it was made VERY evident that Kim should be the only one barring her bottom (and that's only because it's too late to un-do her sex-tape). So why Khloe thought it would be a good idea to bare all for a PETA spread is still beyond me.
Is Khloe really that starved for attention? Has big sis Kim been getting too much of the spotlight lately? Or, as she's told reporters, is the cause just that close to her heart? Either way I'm thinking PETA could have come up with a more enticing spread. The ad actually makes me WANT people to wear fur, just so they DON'T go naked.

Miley's Hand-me-Down

Miley Cyrus and I finally have something in common: We both got used cars for our sixteenth birthdays. Granted mine was a platinum colored 1986 Mercury Cougar fondly nicknamed "Goldmember", while Mileys was well...a Porsche.
The sixteen year old Disney starlet didn't just get the car, remember a month ago her folks shut down Walt Disney Land resort to throw her a kick-ass party too. Come to think of it, I had a party for my sixteenth also. Only no celebrities showed up, and tickets to attend didn't cost a couple of hundred dollars.
Cyrus has another reason to celebrate this month, the dual threat nabbed a Golden Globe nomination for her original theme song to the animated feature Bolt. Cyrus and John Travolta teamed up to sing "I Thought I'd Lost You" which has become an iTunes favorite.

Hilary Duff returns to TV

It's been a while since Hilary Duff made a name for herself as a tween queen on the Disney Channel's hit series "Lizzie McGuire". Since that time the multi-media mogul has graced just about everything BUT television. That absence won't last for much longer though.

Duff has reportedly inked a deal with NBC to star in a new sitcom. In the meantime she'll be casted in a number of guest roles on previously existing series. Note that Hilary turned down the starring role in the CW's new hit "90210" (Shenae Grimes was fortunate enough to nab the part).

Britney's Birthday: Big Deal?

  Maybe it's just me. I'm not all that big on birthdays (I blame it on the fact that mine is only five days away from Christmas, so it often gets overlooked-which oddly enough doesn't seem to bother me).  I have just always wondered why we as a culture are so fascinated with celebrity birthdays.

  Are we shocked that Britney Spears has survived another year on this Earth? Or, are we surprised that she has survived another year in the headlines? Are we celebrating her coming into existence, or coming into the spotlight? Do we secretly envy the ways in which celebrities get to celebrate their 'big' day, with extravagant gifts, custom cakes, and VIP guests?  If anyone has any ideas let me know because I'm still totally at a loss.

  

***

By the way, I broke down and watched the Britney MTV special (it was on Demand). I was not impressed. I felt absolutely NO sympathy for Brit and instead felt cheated by the people at MTV. I thought it was supposed to be a "no-holds barred" interview. I thought Brit was supposed to answer all the lingering questions.  I thought wrong. Instead it was an hour of "feel sorry for me because the photogs make my life impossible".  I was aching to see more of Britney the mom, and less of Britney at her video shoots and dance rehearsals (it was the same crap MTV marketed years ago with "Making the Video").  Did it take months of shooting to get that? I think not.  All I got from this was that Brit's life isn't that interesting, she likes cheese-grits instead of Wheaties, and she has relationship issues with her family. I knew two out of those three things before wasting the hour of my life.

I didn't quite see the "Twilight" at the end of the tunnel

***POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT***

 I know that millions of teenage girls are going to kill me for saying this. But I have to tell the truth. "Twilight" just didn't do it for me.  Maybe it was the two hour wait for a seat, or maybe it was the fact that I haven't read the book, but when all was said and done I could not have been more disappointed. 

  They will teach you in any basic screenwriting class (of which I have taken) that the key to any good film rests in characterization.  You have to create some sort of character sympathy in order to engage audiences.  I felt as though unless you read the book, and already had sympathy for the characters, you were left hanging.  Bella's character was cold and unappealing, which I would have excused had a cared for Edward Cullen in the slightest. His characterization was rushed, as was the love affair between the two. And, I'm sorry, but in a movie about vampires, a love story won't carry the entire film. There needed to be more drama. One fight scene is not enough. Tension usually is a thread used to hold a film together, here it was a dangling line to which the movie was barely holding on. 

  I wanted to know more about the family.  Kellen Lutz and Peter Facinelli anchored a well cast Cullen clan, but they were underused. The film tried also to establish relationships between Bella and the Fork's High School clan, but besides some scenes invented to instigate some awkward teenage sympathy, they became more of a nuisance than an aid to the plot. 

  I am glad that the film has found a niche in the teen audience. Not since the late 90's, early 2000's has there been a truly successful love story aimed at that market (think back to the good ole days: "10 Things I Hate About You", "She's All That", "Cruel Intentions".)  

  A guest on "Table Talk" attempted to compare "Twilight" with the "Harry Potter" series. She thought that "Twilight" would find as much, or more, success.  The problem is that with the "Harry Potter" franchise, people who weren't fans of the book, or who didn't read it, can still enjoy the films.  With "Twilight" I fear that non-book fans won't find the film nearly as amusing. The good news is that if the creators decide to make the second and third novels into motion pictures, then they'll have two other chances to get it right. 

Stephen Baldwin's Hannah Obsession

So I thought it was great last year when University of Michigan wrestler Steve Luke admitted his love affair with Disney's hit show. When macho men admit they have a soft spot for chick flicks and Disney movies, I suddenly have a soft spot for them.
I'll admit, however, that I don't feel the same way for Stephen Baldwin after discovering his permanent display of "Hannah Montana" pride. The buff Baldwin brother revealed a Hannah Montana tattoo (shown here). A poster on your wall, maybe. A DVD box set, sure. But a permanent display of affection for a show almost certain to leave the air in just a few seasons-you've got to be kidding me!
Apparently during a trip to the Whitehouse, Stephen tried to talk his way into a part of his daughter's favorite show. Miley told Stephen that he could have a role in her show if he showed his true dedication to the cause by getting a tattoo. At a book signing in Nashville, Baldwin unveiled his latest work of art. Miley has said she'll keep up her end of the bargain and has secured a guest spot for Stephen on the show.

Join the Circus!

Want to catch a sneak peak of brand new music from Britney Spears? Of course you do. Circus may not hit shelves until December 2nd, but if you follow this link, you can check out six of the new tracks. Then come back and let us know what you think!

The Entertainment Buzz S4E6

Want to see the latest episode of WOLV-TV's "The Entertainment Buzz"? Well you're in luck. You can watch the ENTIRE SHOW right here!!!

Miley Cyrus Has Show Cut From Air

  The third season of Disney's "Hannah Montana" was supposed to start with an episode about diabetes. Instead Disney Channel officials took the show out of the lineup.  The episode, titled "Sugar, No Sugar" was about Hannah's friend Oliver's dealing with diabetes.  The show was pulled after initial concerns about how the disease was represented.  According to an E-Online! report, "the Disney Channel's Standards and Practices team consulted with medical experts during the script-writing process." 

  There is still hope that the show will make it in the Hannah line-up.  The Disney Channel has previously dealt with diabetes in other programming. For example, an episode of "Jonas Brothers: Living the Dream" showed how Nick Jonas deals with the disease. 

  The third season opened with "He Ain't a Hottie, He's My Brother" which dealt with a sophisticated story-line (read: sappy/stupid) depicting Miley's reaction to Lily dating her brother.  The next episode on the schedule: "Ready, Set, Don't Drive".  Gee I wonder if the timing of this has anything to do with the fact that Miley is turning sixteen this month. Weird. 

Heidi Klum in some Risky Business

What’s been hot in Hollywood this week? Without a doubt Heidi Klum in her bra and underwear. The supermodel and Project Runway host was involved in some risky business. No, she wasn’t caught doing anything illegal. Klum reenacted the famous Tom Cruise scene from Risky Business to promote a commercial for Guitar Hero World Tour. I promise after seeing this, you'll never look at guitar hero the same way again.

At the Request of Others: Twilight

I've broken down. At the request of loyal Ebuzz readers, I'm finally posted for the first time on Twilight. 

  I had a Twilight fan on the show a few weeks ago (that video will be up soon), so I figure if I've talked about it on TV, I should talk about it on here too.

  Below you'll find a trailer for the movie.  The film is based on a best-selling series of novels by Stephanie Meyer.  Fans of the teen love books are hailing the movie as a possible "Harry Potter" predecessor.  Whether or not the reaction from audiences will be the same once the box office opens, remains to be seen, but I think Twilight, will at least make some media waves during its upcoming press tour.

  Look for more Twilight in the weeks to come.

Ready for the Circus?

December 2nd the Circus is coming to town. And it's going to look a lot like this.
The album has already generated buzz thanks to the first single, "womanizer".
Britney's hit single has inspired an entire line of advertising for the CW's hit show "Gossip Girls". While the video below isn't an official ad, it helps you see the connection.

Angels & Demons

It's out!!! The first look is out for the new Angels & Demons movie. If you aren't familiar with Dan Brown's series of best selling books, starting with the DaVinci Code, you should be. Angels & Demons is an intense mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and if the film version-starring Tom Hanks-is half as good as the novel, it'll be the must see of the year.
The movie is set to hit theaters May 15,2009 which means you have plenty of time to read the book (which I highly recommend, by the way).

Hilary Duff is back...just not better

Hilary Duff - Reach Out - Official Music Video Premiere


Hilary Duff has released the video for her latest single, Reach Out, off her November 11 album, Best of Hilary Duff. Are you having deja vu too? You're right. Hilary has ALREADY released a "best of" cd called Most Wanted. This time around the former tween-queen offers two new songs, with a whole new sound...but I'm not sure that's going to fly with fans.
The starlet's new video is sexy and provocative, as are the lyrics, but when you add that to a CD with former hits like "So Yesterday" that are light, airy, and aimed at the tween crowd, you've got yourself an identity crisis. Either put out an entire CD, or don't put one out at all. And decide who your audience is. Lindsay Lohan and co. already have the skanky scene covered. If you're looking to become a more mature artist go in a different direction altogether. For example, Mandy Moore's most recent album proved she's anything but a sugar-pop star, without her having to bare all AND alienate fans.
Duff's recent lapse from the big screen can't help sales. Her last feature was War Inc. which showed in very limited release. Only time will tell if her new go at sex will actually sell.

Election on Tuesday, Another VOTE video Today

I'm playing a new game where I try and count how many celebrities appear in these PSAs. This one gets a little tricky at the end. In fact, I think a solid drinking game can be made to go along with all these great videos.
So watch the video, have a cold beverage, and on Tuesday get out and VOTE!
5 More Friends

HSM Seniors dominate box office

 The Saw franchise put up a good fight, but when push came to shove moviegoers were more in the mood for upbeat dance numbers than death.

  "High School Musical 3: Senior Year" debuted with a $42 million box office opening, which trumped this summer's musical hit "Mamma Mia".  The tween market made up most of the early audiences for HSM:3 as 54 percent of patrons were under the age of 18.

  I had a friend tell me this weekend that she drove from East Lansing all the way to Mount Peasant to catch a midnight sneak peak of the flick. That's commitment. And it's what Disney was banking on when they decided to take their third installment of the franchise to the big screen. 

Hudson's Tragedy

Former American Idol and Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Hudson should be riding an emotional high. She just got engaged and she has a new movie coming out. Things took a turn for the worst when on Friday the bodies of Hudson's mother and brother were found shot dead in their South Side Chicago home.

Hudson's nephew, 7-year-old Julian King went missing from the home, and now authorities have intensified their search efforts. An Amber Alert has been issued for the missing child. Hudson has even posted a picture and comments on her MySpace page urging anyone with information to come forward.

Presidential candidate Barack Obama took time out of his campaign to address the issue and give his sympathies to Hudson and her family: "Michelle and I were absolutely heartbroken to learn about this unimaginable tragedy, and we want Jennifer and to know that she is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. We also pray for the swift and safe return of her young nephew."

Another Celebrity Vote Video

So I found another celebrity video urging people to vote. This happens to be a non-partisan video, so I wasn't against it like the video featured in the previous post.
The reason I share this video with you is found in the last thirty or so seconds. Random celebrities breaking out into dance. It makes no sense, it doesn't have anything to do with the video, and yet it made me laugh to the point where I decided it must be shared. So watch, laugh, and then VOTE.

Celebrity Endorsements

With the election only weeks away, a new round of celebrity endorsements have hit the airwaves. This time "Gossip Girl" stars Penn Badgley and Blake Lively have teamed up in a comedic pro-Obama ad.

  While I was a big fan of the celebrity advertisement featuring Leo and company that just encouraged voting, I am NOT a fan of celebrity candidate endorsement ads. People should be voting based on the issues and the candidates, not based on which celebrity thinks their great. 

   Howard Stern just went out in Harlem and asked people who they wanted to vote for. He lied and told people that McCain's platform was really Obama's. The result showed that Americans don't know the issues and instead are just voting for a name. And you wonder why our forefathers invented the Electoral college. 

  So while the following video may be entertaining...it's not INFORMATIVE. It doesn't give you the issues, and it SHOULDN'T persuade you to vote a certain way.

MIley Making a Splash Overseas

Look out London, if you haven't hear, Miley Cyrus has invaded your homeland...and she's loving it. The tween queen made her first performance in the United Kingdom when she performed alongside Ne-Yo and Fall Out Boy at London's Hammersmith Apollo.
Miley told People, "I've phoned my dad and told him not to expect me home. I want to live here."
I can't blame her. Having spent some time in England myself, I tend to agree with her love for all things British. Cyrus cited fashion and accents as two of the things she can't get enough of.
The soon-to-be sixteen year old won't be bringing a Brit home, however, as it has been confirmed she is dating 20-year old Justin Gaston. Speaking of Justin Gaston, isn't that illegal? He is more than four years her senior. Poor kid won't be getting any for a while...if Miley's purity ring won't hold him off, the law will.

Christopher MIntz-Plasse McLovin Michigan

Christopher Mintz-Plasse, best known for his role as McLovin in the hit movie "Superbad", made a stop on the University of Michigan's campus this past week to promote his new film "Role Models". He spent most of the day with E!'s Ben Lyons, but he made some time for the Entertainment Buzz's Billy Holbert as well!

Jonas Brother can have their Turkey and eat it too.

If you haven't seen the Jonas brothers perform then you'll soon get the chance, as the trio will invade American airwaves during halftime of the traditional Dallas Cowboy's Thanksgiving game.
“I was born in Dallas, which makes performing with my brothers at the Cowboys Halftime on Thanksgiving an incredible honor,” said Nick Jonas.
If I'm not asleep on the couch due to the turkey intake than I might actually watch.

Michigan Sucks at Football= Entertaining

So I have a number of friends that go to "other" schools. For those of you not aware, "other" refers to anywhere that's NOT the University of Michigan. So it comes as no surprise that I've received a number of emails and Facebook messages where my friends are showing their thorough enjoyment of the Maize and Blue's football demise. If you aren't aware of how bad things have gotten this year, follow the link and watch the video.
Let me just say, that in the next couple of years when the Wolverines are back on top, I'll be the one entertained.

Sarah Silverman done f-ing Matt Damon

Sarah Silverman has decided that, while f-ing Matt Damon was fun, she'd much rather be with Jimmy Kimmel. The couple, who broke up over the summer, have reportedly gotten back together and are taking things slow. 

 And just in case you've never seen it, below you'll find the video I'm referencing. Even if you have seen it, it's worth a second look.

What's Hot In Hollywood Weekly Recap

Actress Katie Holmes has been making a splash lately with her singing and dancing abilities. Currently, she is on Broadway in the play All My Sons, but she will make her return to the small screen October 21 on ABC’s Eli Stone. She’ll play a non-profit attorney on the show, and when asked about her behavior on set, cast member Natasha Henstridge said, “She was super gracious and lovely and statuesque and gorgeous.”

Riding the success of his animated film “Kung Fu Panda” Jack Black is teaming up again with writers Johnathan Aibel and Glenn Berger to create another action comedy. Black will play an American who washes up on the shores of Cuba without a clue about his identity or why he is there.

Jesse McCartney is going greek. No you won’t see him hanging around Chi Phi, instead he’ll have a recurring role on the hit ABC Family show. When the fourth season of the series returns to TV, McCartney will play Andy a student who will have to choose between rushing the KT house or the OX house.

Following in the wake of the enormous success that this summer’s The Dark Knight has brought, rumors have been swirling that Batman 3 may begin shooting as early as next year. According to behind-the-scene sources from The Dark Knight set in Chicago, pre-production is expected to begin in February of ’09 to ready the way for shooting this summer. However director Christopher Nolan and co-screenwriter Jonah Nolan have yet to sign any deal for a third film.

GET BUZZED!

Here is a clip from the "What's Hot in Hollywood" segment of The Entertainment Buzz on WOLV TV. For more you can watch WOLV or check out wolv.org for more great WOLV TV videos!

Leighton's real-life saga

Leighton Meester may play a wealthy upper-east sider on the hit CW show “Gossip Girls”, but a new cover story in US Weekly shows that in real life, Meester grew up in a VERY different environment. Leighton’s mom was serving a federal prison term for her involvement with a drug smuggling ring when she gave birth to the future starlet. Meester claims that her past has made her, “very nonjudgmental and open-minded. And I think it just makes me appreciate the things that I have now."
Kudos to Leighton for telling her tale. It is ironic that now she plays a shallow, self-absorbed, incredibly wealthy character on TV. Hopefully she can use her dual roles to inspire younger generations to be more open-minded.

Natalie dumps Devendra

Natalie Portman is now officially a free-agent, well at least in the world of dating that is. After six months Portman and her boyfriend, folk rocker Devendra Banhart, have called it quits. The 27 year old star began dating Banhart after appearing in his video for Carmensita.
After six months of viewing the awkward pictures of the pair I'm rather excited to see that Portman has moved on. I can't be the only one who thought that the two made for an odd pair... I mean HIS HAIR WAS AS LONG AS HERS...Not that that's always a bad thing, it's just in this case it was really, really, hideous.
I did like how they coordinated their outfits, or at least their coats. I also like how he carried the purse in the relationship.

Buy Brit's Home

Have an extra 7.9 million dollars lying around? If you do you can now purchase Britney Spears’ six-bedroom, six-bathroom Studio City, California home. You wouldn't have to worry about finding parking as the 7,500-square-foot home has three garages. Brit’s reps claim that the move is being made to provide the pop star with a fresh start and hopefully a better environment to raise her children.
Really? Is that the best she can do? I don't care which multi-million dollar home you raise your kids in, if you are a shitty parent it WON'T MATTER!!!

90210 Gets the Full Season Pick Up and Nick Gets An Out of Jail Free Card

* "90210" Is the first show of the new season to get a network pickup. The CW has ordered 9 more episodes of the hit new series bringing the grand total to 22. This means you can catch more of the rumored anorexics: Shenae Grimes and Jessica Stroup all season long!!!

*The Hogan family finally has reason to celebrate. Nick Bollea (Hogan) is getting out of jail nearly 3 months early thanks to good behavior and work (weird, I didn't know Nick DID work!). Nick's release date has been set for Oct. 21...just in time for him to don his jail suit as a Halloween costume. Somehow I don't think he'll find that very funny...

Miley and the Mouse Rumors

Miley has been making more headlines this week, and believe it or not, they DON'T involve a 'mystery man'!
Comments Cyrus made this past summer regarding the taping of her hit Disney Channel Show "Hannah Montana" as well as rumors of her behavior on the set of the show have been the cause of the latest gossip.
"I am fully committed to Hannah Montana. It's what gave me this amazing opportunity to reach out to so many people," Cyrus told PEOPLE, adding, "I couldn't do it alone. We have an amazing cast that is so supportive, including my dad who has been there for me every step of the way."

Rumors also have been circulating on the "Hannah" set that Cyrus and her famous father Billy Ray have been showing up late and openly talking about wanting to get fired. It was also rumored that Miley and co-star Emily Osment have been squabbling.
Official sources on the show have adamantly denied everything. To counter the negative press Disney has released a new opening date for the "Hannah Montana Movie", which will now be hitting theaters a whole month early (April 10th).
Let's be honest, with regards to the Miley/Emily Osment fighting rumors, they're teenage girls...and let's be honest teenage girls fight. That's life. As far as wanting to quit the show...Cyrus will have to let it go eventually, it's just a matter of when. Disney has them contracted for 3 seasons with an option for the fourth. I think the result of Cyrus' new movie project will help serve as an indicator of whether or not the she can make it without the mouse.

Jamie Lynn's Federal Investigation

Jamie Lynn Spears is in the news again, and this time it involves a Federal investigation. Spears' significant other and baby daddy, Casey Aldrige apparently took pictures of her while breast-feeding. He took the pictures to get printed at a local Wal-Mart where Federal investigators believe they were illegally copied. The photos expose Spear's left-breast and because she is a minor can be seen as child pornography.
I wonder how much someone would be willing to pay for that shot...if they wait long enough I have a feeling Jamie Lynn will give them the shot for free (That is if she follows in her big sister's footsteps).

Real World Casting in Ann Arbor!

MTV's casting crew came to Ann Arbor to find the next stars of "The Real World".

 WOLV TV's Kaitlin Urka was on hand to get the story. Check it out!

Too Skinny?

Rumors have been running rampant across the web after an US WEEKLY article called "90210" stars Shenae Grimes and Jessica Stroup anorexic.  Those pesky "inside sources" supposedly revealed that since finding fame the two leading females have lost their appetites. 

  Rumors also have been flying that Grimes is a mega-bitch, and has unleashed more than one verbal tirade on her co-workers.

  While I admit that both Grimes and Stroup are incredibly skinny, I desperately hope that neither is suffering an eating disorder.  And, if all is true-like co-star Lori Laughlin- claims, than shame on the CW for casting individuals who are SO unrealistic looking in their body size that they invite speculation.  If nothing else cast a "normal" looking female to at least bring the average dress size to a 6 rather than a 0.

  

Sizzling Fall Celebs

FHM has just released their list of the hottest fall stars, and you may be surprised at some of the names on their list.

  The "Hottest Star for Fall" award didn't go to the blonde bombshell of the CW's hit serious "Gossip Girl", but instead to her sizzling co-star, Leighton Meester.

  While "Gossip Girl" has already aired a few new episodes this season, some of the other stars on the hot list, have yet to premiere their shows.  Hayden Panettiere of "Heroes", Kaley Cuoco of "The Big Bang Theory" and Eva Longoria Parker of "Desperate Housewives" also made the list. 

   

  

Miley Shedding her ears?

Miley Cyrus has been under the Disney umbrella for as long as her short career has spanned. Now, the tween queen has announced that she'll shed the Disney ears for a more serious project (or at least that's what she's calling it, anyways).
Cyrus will work with best selling author Nicholas Sparks to create, simultaneously, a new book/movie. Cyrus will play the lead, and her mom Trish will serve as an executive producer. Does this ring a bell for anyone else? Can you say Hilary Duff and her mom Susan? Hilary starred in "A Cinderella Story", mom Susan served as the movie's executive producer. Funny. Hilary also got her start on the Disney Channel. Hum, really funny. Both starlets used the expanded fan base they acquired with successful music sales to boost their transition to the big screen (Hilary Duff went multi-platinum with "Metamorphosis" while Miley has hit gold with "Breakout".) I'm getting deja vu here.
The question is whether or not Miley's star power will translate into success of the big screen. Will her tween audiences follow her? Will the content of the film be enough to engage her older fans too? Only time will tell, but I'm guessing that much like Hilary Duff's Lizzie McGuire stigma, Miley will have Hannah Montana on her back for quite some time.

Just Because You Get Your Picture Taken With Someone...Doesn't Mean Your DATING

I would just like to take a moment to straighten something out. It appears that every time a single celebrity gets their picture taken with a person of the opposite sex, they are linked romantically. Is it impossible now-a-days to have friends of the opposite sex?
If celebrities dated everyone they were photographed with, Miley Cyrus would be a major slut. Rumors lately have circulated that the "Hannah Montana" star has been spending time with Cody Lindly, and most recently Justin Gaston.
In the picture we see here Miley MUST be dating co-star Mitchell Musso, I mean LOOK AT HER. Oh wait she's probably whispering something in his ear because the thousands of screaming fans surrounding them are making it impossible to hear.

Britney Caring for People, Hoping People Still Care About Her...

Britney Spears is still attempting to re-vamp her image. Her publicist's latest trick includes auctioning off an autographed portrait of the former teen-pop sensation on Ebay.

  For the starting price of ONLY 10,000 dollars you can have a life-sized, signed reminder of failure and disgrace hanging in your home. I mean, who WOULDN'T want a life-sized Brit on their wall?

  Maybe I'm being too harsh. Spears IS donating all the profits to the Promises Foundation.  Promises provides many of the same services that Britney has received in the past, only to the less fortunate ("behavioral health services" is the technical term for their work). 

This week anything ND related= Entertainment

Considering the fact that my blood runs Maize and Blue, I've decided that this week, anything Notre Dame related will constitute Entertainment. Why not? Making fun of the Irish is entertaining 365 days a year, it's just more appropriate in the seven actually leading up to the big game.

  I've borrowed the following video from my friends at Varsity Blue. While it has nothing to do with Notre Dame, it does poke fun at the football world, which I feel is a solid tune up for the Notre Dame content still to come.

Shawn's Cameo, Family Night resurgence, and Purity Ring debacle

I feel I need to start with a follow up to my Tuesday night TV advice. Thanks to the magic of the internet I was able to watch both 90210 AND "the Secret Life of the American Teenager".
Having met Shawn Johnson while in Beijing, I was curious to see her highly anticipated cameo in "Secret Life". The result? It was quite possibly the worst cameo I have ever seen. Shawn was, as always, incredibly cute but the horrendous quality of the dialog assigned to her left her little to work with. As a result her appearance was awkward and the laughs that followed weren't due to the comedic nature of the scene, but rather the sheer awkwardness of it.
As far as season finales go, "Secret Life" sucked. There wasn't a major cliff hanger, the pace to the episode was relatively slow, and the main character (the pregnant girl the show is supposed to be about) was hardly in it.

Luckily, "90210" picked up the pieces. In the series second week on air viewers were treated to a family themed episode that opened some plot twists and provided lots of character exposition.
The episode was themed around the Wilson family's attempts to have a night out together (of course, much to the chagrin of the Wilson children). I can't help but wonder how many teens might actually give spending time with their folks a chance after watching the show. It was a lesson in family values that even Brenda Hampton would be proud of (and it came without all the sap of "7th Heaven").
I'll admit the CW has me still on board. I'm usually a fan of "if it ain't broke don't fix it". But this reincarnation of the original hit is proving that a tweak here or there may not be so bad after all.

Finally, if you watched the VMAs, or have been paying attention to Entertainment news at all as of late, you'll have heard by now how the Jonas Brothers got slammed for sporting their purity rings.
1) Good for them for wearing them in the first place (we don't need any more Jonas' running around any time soon).
2) Good for Jordin Sparks for sticking up for them (note: she wears one too).
3) The Jonas Brothers aren't the only high-profile celebs that have/or are sporting them (Hilary Duff, Jessica Simpson and even Miley Cyrus have been sited with them) and as a result are helping turn them into a hot fashion item. HOWEVER, just because Hollywood is making them a fashion item, doesn't mean that they should lose their value. If you are wearing one, are unmarried, and having sex then you're kind of defeating the purpose. IN OTHER WORDS, Jamie Lynn Spears-DON'T BOTHER GETTING ONE.

The Buzz: Michael's giving gold, Ellen's a what?, and what to watch tonight

*Michael Phelps is using his elevated fame and fiances after his stunning 8 gold medal performance at the Beijing Olympics to do good. The former Michigan Wolverine has announced that he will be donating 1 million dollars to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.
Phelps will win over a different population in his upcoming gig as host of "Saturday Night Live". NBC is hoping that he will win them a ratings gold with his performance.

*Ellen Degeneres the new face of Covergirl? True story. The comedian will join the ranks of Queen Latifa, Faith Hill, and Drew Barrymore when she starts shooting for their latest campaign this week.
I could totally see Ellen as a spokesperson for American Express, but I've never thought "awesome makeup" with regardss to the talk show host before.


*What to Watch:
I'm already going through TiVo withdrawal. I might just have to drive home and steal it from my parents. All of the good stuff tends to be on at the same time! Luckily I've established some priorities, and back up plans, that can help us Tivoless individuals survive.

8PM: For me this is a no-brainer. "90210" is the way to go. In just it's second episode of the season, the CW's newest hit will attempt to captivate the 14-30 year old audience again. A hot cast and a deliciously scandalous storyline, not to mention a nod to a past that many of us once enjoyed has made this the must-see show of the season.
If you missed the premiere last week here is a sneak peak that will get you all caught up.

90210 Beverly Hills Nouveau Trailer
by SeriesAddict01

A secondary option, for those not enamored with seeing a Jennie Garth/Shannon Daugherty reunion, can switch over to ABC Family for "The Secret Life of the American Teenager". Dramatic, sappy, and fairly unrealistic, the show still provides enough entertainment to warrent your attention.
Finally, former Dawson's Creek fans, Joshua Jackson is making his return to TV in the pilot of FOX's latest sci-fi thriller "Fringe".
The networks aren't providing much competition, unless you are in love with "reality" competition shows ("America's Got Talent"). If I were you I wouldn't waste the time or space on your DVR.

9PM: The Network's summer programming is still prevailing, so take this chance to try something new. The CW is introducing "Priviledged". While I can't vouch for it's content, the previews make it look more promising than hour two of "America's Got Talent" or ABC's "Wipeout". If you opted to watch "Fringe" you still have a half an hour left to get over your Joshua Jackson infatuation.

Just Stand Up

In a world that seems inundated with negative press regarding the behavior of celebrities, it is always refreshing to hear stories of stars doing good. Most recently the stars have aligned to "Stand Up to Cancer". Some of music's hottest talent-Beyonce, Miley Cyrus, Rihanna, Sheryl Crow( and they're just four of TEN)-teamed up to create a song that is being sold entirely to benefit cancer prevention. "Just Stand Up" may not be the best single you've heard all year, but this song's hook isn't in its chorus.
It's impressive when celebrity's put their egos aside to share the stage, it's even more impressive when they put their talent together to benefit a greater cause. So go on iTunes and buy the single. You could download it, but this is a 99 cents well worth spending.

I'm going to...Where?!

Misty May-Treanor just won a gold medal in beach volleyball at the Beijing Olympics.  So now that's she has won the star has announced she's going...hold on...where again? It's not Disney World.  But it's close!

  Misty will be guest-starring on the Disney Channel show Wizards of Waverly Place (You've heard of it because it stars Selena Gomez, the rumored rebound of Nick Jonas).  

  If you aren't a fan of the Disney Channel you can catch Misty on this season's Dancing With the Stars.  

  I still think I just would have gone to Disney World.

Damn Daniel!

Little Harry Potter must have a little magic in his wand.  Daniel Radcliffe revealed to Details that he lost his virginity at age 16...and to a much OLDER woman!  Radcliffe has already bared all to millions thanks to his role in Eqqus.  I don't think the producer's of Harry Potter had to work with their star too much on his role in the love scenes...he's a seasoned vet!

CW still on a roll...

The execs at the CW are having a great week. They started off a bang with the premieres of "Gossip Girls" and "One Tree Hill" on Monday. The high ratings continued thanks to the 2-hour premiere of the highly anticipated "90210" last night. Around 5 million viewers tuned in making it the CW's highest rated debut show to-date.

  With a hot cast including relative newcomer Shenae Grimes, I have a feeling that those five million will be sticking around for a while.

I don't 90210

So I just spent the last two hours of my life giving "90210" a chance. And...well...the verdict's still out.
It was incredibly predictable, very Gossip Girls-esque, and at times overly cliche. And yet, at the same time, it had a really hot cast, some solid story-lines, and the potential to be another 14-29 year old hit.
Let's start with the cast:
*Newcomer Shenae Grimes shines in the role of Annie Wilsom. She is a combination Blake Lively meets Miley Cyrus. Somehow that works for her, and for the show.
*Dustin Milligan is one of those male characters that will totally grow on you as the show continues. He's cute in a boyish way with a charm that will keep you coming back, no matter what stupid things he says/does.
*Rob Estes. Yeah that's about all I need to say. For emphasis, though, I'll add: DILF
*Jennie Garth and Shannon Daugherty...I don't really care about their characters, the fact that they came back for round two is worth watching.

I'll be honest, I'll probably give this show another week to truly impress me. The foundation is there, I'm just not sure that it can provide the necessary support.
I'll get back to you on that one :)

It's About Time...

So I've gone almost all summer without blogging about Miley Cyrus. And yet, through all that time, the posts that continued to get the most responses where the ones about, you guessed it, Miley Cyrus. So I've finally broken down. Here it is: The first Miley Cyrus post of the season.

I'm not going to lie, I've listened to the Disney starlet's new album. And, there are actually a few songs on there I really like. Her cover of "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" made me want to cry (come on, you can't do Cyndi Lauper better than Cyndi Lauper). I will say that "Full Circle" and "Goodbye" have the potential to make one of my iPod playlists.
What I love the most about this new album is that it reminds me of one put out not too long ago, by then teen queen herself, Britney Spears. Yes I just made that comparison. Miley has released this album after a very public breakup with Nick Jonas and has admitted that much of the inspiration for her music came from that relationship. Now think back half a decade or so to the Britney Spears/Justin Timberlake breakup. Did they not both release albums featuring songs regarding each other's relationship? Thank you very much. Now that the Jonas Brothers have released their latest album, it's rather obvious some of their music was inspired by the Miley/Nick relationship as well.
In Miley's latest video "7 Things" you can see that she is wearing her ex-beau's necklace.


The good news is that if Miley does decide to shave her head someday, she already has a blonde wig in her size (I'm sorry I had to).

I wasn't the only one who watched GG last night!

The CW started its new season on a strong note. "Gossip Girl" and "One Tree Hill" pulled in record viewers for the beginning of the network's sophomore season. The season premiere of "Gossip Girls" brought with it series highs in the18-49 demo, as well as the network's target demo of adults 18-34 (2.3/7). "One Tree Hill's" season opener was seen by 3.1 million viewers. Whether or not these numbers will continue to climb is uncertain, but if the plots stay as steamy and drama filled as they have been, I'd say the chances are pretty good.

Gossip Girls: Oh it's back...

So for those of you that missed tonight's episode of Gossip Girls I'm genuinely sorry. The CW's hot drama is back and better than ever. I don't want to spoil it for those of you looking to download it on iTunes later, or watch it via your Tivo, so I won't go in to too many juicy details.
I will say, however, that if you have never seen this show before, now is as good a time as any to start watching. With a hot cast and even hotter storylines Gossip Girl's season premiere certainly didn't dissapoint. And, for those of you who saw the show last season, some new faces have already appeared and should stick around long enough to make a splash this fall.
So go ahead and watch...you know you love it! XOXOXO

FALL TV: What to Tune in to

The Fall TV season can be a lot like a parade: Hours of so-called entertainment featuring only a handful of things you actually want to see.
The writer's strike last year has left many fans in the dark about their favorite shows, and has left the door wide open to a slew of up-and-coming series. So her is a quick guide to what's coming back, what's new, and what you should tune in to.

MUST SEE FAVORITES!!!
These shows may have left fans hanging during the writer's strike, but this fall they'll pick right back up where they left off and are certain not to disappoint.

Heroes: The NBC hit left off last season with some major deaths. HRG took a bullet, but thanks to blood from Claire managed to make a comeback. And in the season finale Nathan was shot before he could reveal his true powers to the world. This season Sylar is back and as evil as ever, a Hero gains a new power, and everyone's favorite Asian teleporter will use his ability to make a key new discovery.

Chuck: Zach Levi stole many a girl's heart as he made his debut in this NBC show last season. Quirky characters and interesting storylines allowed it to come back this fall. Look for great guest stars like former O.C. babe Rachel Bilson to keep things interesting.

The Office: Do I really need to say more? All the stars are back, and the inter-office love affairs are still blossoming, and all the comedy is still really fresh.

Desperate Housewives: The season finale left fans realing. The housewives were thrown five years into the future and Wisteria Lane could not have looked more different. Gabby a mom? That alone will be worth tuning in to.

Brothers and Sisters: The two hour season finale both tied up loose ends and revealed a slew of new ones. Scotty got married, Uncle Sal finally came out, and Justin and Rebecca got romantic. If Rebecca isn't the mystery Walker, however, just who is? It's family drama at its finest.

The Big Bang Theory: If you didn't catch this quirky comedy last season you seriously missed out. "8 Simple Rules" Kaley Cuoco leads a super cast in this comedy about two socially inept intellectuals who live across the hall from a blonde bombshell. This show's smart humor is perfect for the college crowd.

CSI, NCIS, Numbers, etc.: I'm grouping all these dramas togther because, well, if you've seen one you've seen them all. I happen to enjoy all of them. And trust me each left its fans with a major twist at the end of last season. Many main characters either got the axe, or their futures' are in an uncertain limbo. It will be worth tuning in just to see how the new cast will play out.

Gossip Girls: The only truly worthwhile show to watch on the fledgling CW network, Gossip Girls is everything one could want in a teen drama and more. Featuring a super hot cast (Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Chase Crawford, and Penn Badgley) and some sizzling storylines each episode is a sensory delight. This season the gossip will get even hotter as some new cast members are introduced and some new flames ignite.


THE FRESHMAN:
These new shows have a ways to go to prove themselves in primetime, but by their buzz already, we think they'll be season staples.

90210: This is one of the most talked about new shows of the season. The spin-off of the uber-popular teen series is bringing back some of the original stars (Jennie Garth) and adding some hot new faces of their own (Tristin Wilds). It certainly has some big shoes to fill, but the critics are saying it certainly has the potential.

HSM 3 Trailer Out

The High School Muscial 3 trailer is out. Yipee. Sorry I'd sound more excited if I actually cared. The reason I'm even posting about this is because I think it's hilarious that it took the THIRD installment of the franchise to make it to the big screen. Think about it. Doesn't it usually work the opposite way? The first two movies make it to the big screen (think "Bring it On") and the last seventeen go straight to video (ask Hayden, she knows what it's like to go right to DVD).
I give Disney credit, they've used the media frenzie ( and the new fans brought on my the nude Vanessa pics) to propel this movie to stardom already. Ten new songs means an entire new cd for crazed fans to buy. Sorry Disney, I won't be giving you my twenty bucks. But, I'm guessing you'll have a couple million buyers who will easily shell out the dough. So for those of you who care, the teaser trailer is out, and in only three months you can catch the musical phenom in theaters. Until then, watch a real movie.

Will Camp Rock?

The last two summers Disney has banked big with the release of their hot "High School Musical" franchise. Now, while the third installment prepares itself for the big screen, the Mouse is hoping to fill the void with "Camp Rock".
My guess, like Disney's, is that the star power of the super hot Jonas Brothers (who all appear in the movie) will drive this movie to success. But Disney isn't just banking on the brothers...the network has been working hard to promote their latest young talent (read: Soon to be tabloid fodder) Demi Lovato. Following in the footsteps of other Disney developed young talent (Hilary Duff, Miley Cyrus, Vanessa Hudgens), Lovato hopes this project will propel her to super-star status.
While my guess is that the movie itself (acting, plot, special effects) will suck...the soundtrack will likely rocket it to success. The title song, "We Rock", has already caused quite a buzz online, and clips of others songs featured in the film show promise.
While this movie is certainly targeted for the tween generation, I wouldn't be surprised if like other Disney enterprises (Hannah Montana, High School Musical), it finds success with older audiences too.

The Dance Battle continues...

I don't know about you, but in my spare time my friends and I ALWAYS coordinate massive 9+ minute dance sequences to put up online. Ok, so maybe we just drink and watch a movie. But, if we had the resources and the time that Miley Cyrus and her friends have...you never know.
Miley and Mandy have released their comeback to the ACDC crew. This star studded video features some great celebrity cameos, hot dancing, and a decent dance mix.

The Buzz

* Dwayne's Divorce
-Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has officially finalized his divorce from his wife Dany. Luckily, unlike other Hollywood couples, the two have come to terms on sharing custody of their 7 year old daughter Simone. Johnson will have to dish out more than22,000 dollars a month in child support which is pretty cheap considering both parties have waived their right to alimony. I hate to say it, but if you have to get divorced, this is how you should do it. A statement released by the couple showed just how chummy the split seemed to be: "We've been fortunate enough to spend the last 17 years together as a couple and look forward to spending the rest our lives together as best friends and business partners."


Dwayne, just so you know, now that you are available...I thought you were quite the gentlemen in our interview (despite the fact you started the interview being an ass :)
If you missed my sit down with Dwayne you can watch it below!!!



* Tyler claims rehab for his "foot"
-Is that the excuse celebrities are using nowadays? I really want to believe that Aerosmith front-man Steven Tyler went to rehab for his foot, but let's be honest...anyone who has EVER heard their music knows that much of it was written and/or played under the influence of drugs. If Tyler actually went to rehab for his foot...then good for him. I just fear that next Lindsay Lohan will be back in Utah getting treated for her hand, or Kirsten Dunst will make a trip to Malibu for a bad back.

*Lindsay DOES use a medical excuse for her "other" problems
-Lindsay did try to follow in Steven Tyler's footsteps. Although she blamed her trip to the hospital on asthma. She was with her DJ friend Samantha. Seriously is Lindsay gay? They have been seen giving each other MORE than just a friendly kiss. Miley and her fifteen year old girlfriends is one thing, but Lindsay and her twenty-something starlets is entirely different (AND NOT INNOCENT AT ALL).

Miley Cyrus' New Single

Miley Cyrus has had a rough couple of weeks amid her Vanity Fair photo flop. But, the Disney star has come roaring back. She's just released the new single to her latest album which is set for release July 22. The 15 year old spills about an ex in "7 Things". Want to listen? You can listen to Miley's latest work here.

New Kids on the Block are BACK! Watch here!!!

*The New Kids On the Block are officially back, and they kicked off their return to the stage with a stop on NBC's "Today". Check out clips here:

The Buzz: Rob's in 90210, Owen and Kate off-again, Wilson Graduates-finally

*Rob Estes moves to "90210"
-The cast of the new CW spinoff of "90210" continues to grow. Rob Estes, the former Melrose Place star, will play Harry, Lori Loughlin's husband.He work as the principal of West Beverly High, his alma mater, after he moves his family from Kansas back to Beverly Hills to take care of his aging alcoholic mother.

*Owen and Kate un-tie the knot
-Just days after announcing their engagement, Owen Wilson and Kate Hudson have called it off. The on-again, off-again couple have been dating since 2006. I'd bet money they'll be back on-again before one of the two releases another major motion picture. Can anyone say publicity stunt?

*Gretchen Wilson Graduates
-Who says you need a high school education to be successful? Gretchen Wilson is a platinum recording artist and just recently received her high school diploma. The 34 year old country crooner dropped out of high school in the 9th grade due to family problems. So why go back to school amid all her success: Her 9 year old daughter. No offense Gretchen, but just because you have a diploma now, that doesn't mean you still aren't a Redneck Woman!

Miley's Dance off part deux

Two Miley Cyrus posts in one day? Overkill right? I know. But I couldn't help it. Miley's online Youtube dance off has reached stage two as more celebrities have responded with a new video. When the likes of Brittany Snow, Amanda Bynes, Diana Ross, and Chris Brown all get together to keep it alive, well it's worth my time too.
So here is part two of the Miley dance off.

The Buzz: Gary Dourdan, Mariah and co. Avril's voice

* Gary Dourdan's drug problem
-CSI's Gary Dourdan was arrested after being found asleep in his vehicle that was pulled over on the wrong side of the road. Dourdan was found in possession of suspected cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and prescription pills, police say. He posted $5,000 bail and was released. Reports indicate that the luggage didn't belong to Dourdan, however the star will appear in court on May 28. In the meantime he has returned to the CSI set. I wonder if in the next episode they'll work on a drug bust. The irony there would be awesome!

*Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey?!
-Ok, I don't know about you but I NEVER saw this coming. Nick Cannon marrying Mariah Carey?!, it is kind of like peanut butter and ketchup, no matter how you try it it just doesn't seem to work. The couple the pair obtained a marriage liscense on the Caribbean island of Eleuthera (is that so that it will be easier to annul back in the States when they finally come around?).

*Avril voice-less-duh
-Avril has apologized to fans for canceling a hoard of shows recently. The singer tells the press that "my voice is shot". Well Avril, newsflash, this isn't something new. I've always liked Avril's music, but lets be honest, it isn't because she has amazing vocals. She could go out on stage sounding like a chipmunk and I doubt people would even notice above the punk rock guitar riffs in the background.

Don't Mess With Miley

Again my apologies for my prolonged absence. I recently had my wisdom teeth pulled and thus haven't been devoting my attention to this blog. Summer in general will likely cause lapses in my posting, but I promise to be as diligent as possible.
The Miley Cyrus cover photo controversy hasn't gone away. Everyone in Hollywood from John Rich (Big and Rich) to Jennifer Love Hewitt have sounded off on the matter. The vast majority stand thoroughly behind the fifteen year old phenom. Miley didn't let the matter stop her from joining another charitable cause this weekend. Cyrus performed at the finale of the Disney Channel games. Why not go to the Happiest Place on Earth to get away from all your worries? I'm all for it. There is very little that Mickey Mouse can't cure!
Miley told her Disney fans that she couldn't "be more appreciative" of all their support.