This is Really Happening?

Because one can never have too much Star Wars, this is happening:

Not content with seven feature films or myriad TV spinoffs ranging from the current Clone Wars cartoon series to the Star Wars Holiday Special, the Jedi masterminds are readying a stage show. George Lucas has signed off on Star Wars: A Musical Journey, a two-hour live musical event featuring John Williams' Oscar-winning score. Premiering next year in London's O2 arena, the production will be performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in sync with movie clips from the six live-action films. The show will play in chronological order, from The Phantom Menace to Return of the Jedi. The production will blast off April 10 in the U.K. and then embark on a European tour, complete with an exhibition of rare Star Wars collectibles including never-before-seen models, props, costumes and production artwork. No word when it will visit America. (source)

I'm not so sure about this one. I mean, I like Star Wars as much as the next person (though maybe not as much as some people), but I really don't think this show is necessary. At least they're not trying to make an actual musical out of it. Someone must have learned something from the Lord of the Rings fiasco.

Later!

Kids get political?

This story came out a couple of days ago, but, with the busy holiday season, this is the first time I've been able to write about it. I totally love this!

Nickelodeon TV, the children's' network, is getting ready to cover its first presidential inauguration. Young reporters Lily Collins, rocker Phil Collins' daughter, and J.J. (Nick would not release his last name) will be in Washington on Jan. 20 to show Barack Obama's inauguration from a pint-sized perspective. Throughout the presidential campaign, Nickelodeon found that interest among its young viewers matched that of the adults. Nick's own online "election" had 2.2 million children voting, with kids supporting Obama over John McCain (51 percent to 49 percent) in a closer margin than the real election. The coverage will show up during commercial breaks and, most prominently, during the periods between regular shows in prime-time. Nick will offer a retrospective of past presidents taking the oath of office and interviews with young people about Obama's election and his inaugural address. Nick won't cover the speech live, but will take excerpts shortly after it is done from coverage on a news network and package it for its viewers. Nick reporters covered the primary this year for the first time (another online poll found kids selecting Obama and McCain as the nominees before Super Tuesday) and went to the Democratic and Republican party conventions. Republicans didn't allow Nick TV reporters on their convention floor; the Democrats did. (Source)

Boy, Nickelodeon sure has changed since I was watching it. I mean, most of the break ins then involved someone getting slimed, and their idea of political was who won Double Dare! Not that I'm bagging on the Nick of old, I spent numerous hours watching Clarissa Explains It All, Hey Dude!, You Can't Do That On Television, Nick Rocks (they once sent me a record of the La Bamba soundtrack!) and that one show that had the mannequin that turned into a human when he had his hat on and there was a puppet mouse and a puppet named Sam running security. Does anyone know the name of this show? I used to watch it before I went to kidergarten every morning, so my recollection of it is rather hazy. Anyway, Nickelodeon has definitely evolved and I think its evolved for the better. I love the idea of getting kids involved with what's going on in the country. I mean, its their country too, shouldn't they know what's happening in it?

And the winner is...US Weekly!

Well that didn't take long! US Weekly is already confirming the Speidi nuptuals and even has pictures!

Introducing, Mrs. Heidi Montag Pratt! The Hills star wed her longtime beau, Spencer Pratt, in a secret ceremony in Cabos San Lucas, Mexico, on Nov. 20, Us Weekly reports in its newest issue. See exclusive photos wedding photos in Us Weekly's new issue, on stands Wednesday. "The minute we said our vows, I couldn't stop crying," Montag, 22, tells Us. At the altar, Pratt, 25, told his bride: "Heidi, from the moment you came into my life, I knew my life would never be the same without you. You are the light in my life like the sun to the earth! Your loving warmth makes me want to be a better person. Being with you, I feel complete. I'm honored to even be able to call you my wife. You are the most amazing, loving and caring womanFor all the details on Pratt and Montag's romantic wedding, pick up the newest issue of Us Weekly, on stands Wednesday. on this planet. I will love you forever and always." (source)

So I guess its true. You heard it here first. Now, please excuse me while I vomit up my lunch.

Later!

Yes, this means the end of the world is eminent!

Some rather disturbing news is making the rounds today, via Perez Hilton and WENN.com:

The Hills stars Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt have married in a secret ceremony. The couple - which began dating in 2006 - exchanged vows while on vacation. A source says, "They got married in Mexico." And reality TV star Montag has now confirmed the reports, telling PerezHilton.com, "The minute we said our vows, I couldn't stop crying." Montag spoke of her plans to wed Pratt in August, when she told reporters, "I'm just waiting for that big ring!"(source)

Granted, these two sources are not always the most reliable when it comes to celebrity gossip. And I'm sure these two publicity hungry people will soon be all over the web, giving statements and sharing pictures with US or Star or Hello, or whoever the highest bidder is. I just find it difficult to believe, given past interviews with the the terrible twosome, that they just snuck away and got married. They've been quoted as saying they would basically sell their wedding to whoever would sponsor it and definitely televise the resulting media car crash. Maybe they couldn't find anyone to pay for this crime against humanity. How is it that Speidi can marry, yet the gay population can't? I'm just waiting for that very special episode of The Hills to air. Not that I'll watch it, but I'll read about it online I'm sure. Blurg! This whole thing is making me a little nauseous. And it forced me to break my rule about not blogging about Then Hills or any of its minions. Damn you Speidi! I blame you for all that is evil in this world! At least in Hollywood. I guess we'll find out soon enough if its true. If it is, remember, you heard it from me first! Or third. Or whatever.
Later!

Am I a bad person...

...because the first thing I thought of after reading this story:

A woman described as being obsessed with Paula Abdul has been found dead after apparently killing herself in a car parked outside the American Idol judge's hillside home, police confirm to E! News. LAPD officers found the body around 6 p.m. Tuesday, after responding to a call in the 3800 block of Beverly Ridge Drive in Sherman Oaks. Authorities have not released the name of the woman, who was in her 30s, but say she seemed to be fixated on the "Forever Your Girl" singer. The cause of death appears to be a suicide, and the body has been transported to the county coroner for autopsy. Abdul's camp tells E! News that she is aware of the incident and plans to release a statement later today, after finishing up some Idol taping. (source E Online)

... was "Why Paula Abdul?" I know! I'm an awful person! I mean, I feel bad for this woman, who was obviously disturbed, and her poor family. Hell, I even feel bad for Paula. It would totally suck to have someone obsessed with you kill themselves in front of your house. But... Paula Abdul? Really? I don't get it. If you were going to be so obsessed with someone to actually take your own life in front of their house, why wouldn't you choose a better celebrity? Like Brad Pitt or Madonna or someone actually famous? Unless this woman felt a kinship with the crazy that is Paula. I mean, I could see the crazy being a bonding experience or something. Yup, I'm a very bad person. Definitely going to hell for this one. Maybe I should start going to church or something to make up for this.
Later!

Will it never end?

Depressing news in the world of entertainment. I'm not talking about the whole Jennifer Hudson family tragedy thing, because that's beyond depressing and I can't even begin to wrap my mind around it. No, I'm talking about the fast tracking of the remake of Footloose, starring Zac Efron.

Paramount Pictures is doing everything it can to make sure Zac Efron is Footloose and roadblock-free. In the wake of the box-office domination of the Zefron-juiced High School Musical 3: Senior Year, the studio has put its remake of the Kevin Bacon classic on the fast track, with production slated to begin on the musical next spring. According to Variety, Paramount is doing what it can to ensure a smooth run-up to the start date, including offering the 21-year-old star a "mid-seven-figure salary" and script approval. Along for the potentially lucrative ride is HSM3 director Kenny Ortega, who will once again shepherd Efron through the lofty big-screen endeavor. Because the studio is hoping the Footloose audience skews slightly older than Efron's current demographic—aiming for older teens and adults in lieu of Disneyfied tweens—Paramount has enlisted the slightly more edgy talents of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist director Peter Sollett to give the script a once-over. Bringing out all the stops, the studio has also commissioned new songs to be written for the flick. While the original was, without question, a music-heavy venture, the remake will go one step further and actually branch into musical genre territory. As further insurance for success, the studio has roped in two Chicago producers to lend a hand on the movie. (source)

Yup, yet another movie remake in the near future. This time, its an 80's classic that really doesn't need to be remade. Especially by Zac Efron. Is there no creativity left in the world? Or is Zac just not a fan of being in creative movies? Lets look at his resume so far: High School Musical. While original enough to satisfy most tweenagers, not really the most novel of story lines. But at least it had original music and choreography. High School Musical 2. Losing credibility here. Hairspray. A remake of the Broadway play that was a remake of a John Waters movie. From the 80's. High School Musical 3. Pretty much all credibility garnared from the first movie has been sequeled out by now. Upcoming projects include 17 again, which is basically Big in reverse. Not an original concept. And now this Footloose remake. Wow, this is a guy who really takes chances! I bet he plays basketball in all of them too! I shouldn't judge too much though. He may not get offered any other kind of role. But, if he wants to stick around like he says he does, he may want to find a new kind of role to play or else he's going to be cast in a lot of direct to DVD movies before spluttering off into obscurity once the next hot stud debuts. That's just my opinion though. Is anyone excited about this remake? Aside from the people making money off of it?

Everyone Relax! Its totally not true.

Earlier today, The National Enquirer release a story alledging that Jamie Lynn Spears, who gave birth to daughter Maddie only three months ago, is up the spout again. Here's the Enquirer story:
Whoops – she did it again! Teen Prego Queen Jamie Lynn Spears has another bun in the oven, The NATIONAL ENQUIRER is reporting exclusively – and her pals are begging her to abort. In a blockbuster world exclusive, The ENQUIRER has learned that the 17-year-old Zoey 101 starlet is now expecting for the second time – a mere three months after giving birth on June 19 to baby Maddie Briann. Jamie’s desperate to keep the shock­ing news secret and some people close to her are urging Jamie Lynn to consider ending the pregnancy, sources say. “Jamie Lynn is about eight weeks pregnant, and she and her mom Lynne are hysterical,” revealed a close source. “Neither of them knows what to do, but for now they’re trying to keep the news from getting out.” Too late. The unplanned pregnancy came as a shock to Jamie Lynn, who’d been breast-feeding her infant daughter Maddie Briann, insiders say. “Jamie Lynn believed she couldn’t get pregnant while she was breast-feeding,” said the close source. “She’d expected to have her period by early September.” A home pregnancy test came back positive and Jamie Lynn cried her eyes out, said the source. Her mother Lynne was livid when she found out, divulged an insider. Meanwhile, insiders say that those close to Jamie Lynn are urging her to abort! “They’ve reminded Jamie Lynn how much trouble she had adjusting to motherhood with Maddie, and pointed out that having a second baby now would only be a recipe for disaster,” said the close source. (source)
Thankfully, this news is apparently untrue. Shocking I know! I always believe what The Enquirer says, don't you? Anyway, here's what the Spears camp had to say:

In response to a story in today's National Enquirer claiming Britney's sister is again with child, a rep for the 17-year-old confirmed to OK! magazine that "she is not pregnant." What's more, a source who lives in Jamie Lynn's native Kentwood, La., tells E! News: "I talk to [her mom] Lynne all the time. Believe me, she would have mentioned if that little girl is expecting again. That's just a bunch of made-up crap." (Source)

I must say, I'm a bit relieved. It was bad enough when Jamie Lynne announced her first pregnancy at the age of 16, I don't think I could have handled the media storm that would inevitably happen if she got knocked up again less than a year later. Oh yeah, and I'm also glad for Jamie Lynne and whoever that guy she's doing. Apparently, they're super happy and in love. If you believe OK! Magazine, that is. And I obviously do, because I have no free will. But at least I know how to use a freaking condom!

On to other Spears news, the suddenly reformed, now "good egg", Britney is still dealing with the fallout from her year long ride on the crazy train. And I'm pretty sure her lawyer is just in it for the billable hours. Here's the latest:

The attorney in Britney Spears' forever-pending driving-without-a-license case has rejected a final deal from prosecutors. The seemingly no-brainer offer would have had Spears pay a measly $150 and spend a year on probation in exchange for copping to the misdemeanor charge and avoiding an embarrassing trial in the case. But the "Womanizer" singer's attorney, J. Michael Flanagan, is sticking to his guns that the 26-year-old comeback queen, who long ago corrected the violation and obtained a valid California driver's license, should face nothing more than a $10 fine for her misdeed. "We don't want a misdemeanor," he told E! News. "This should be an infraction. No probation." That means the trial is on for Oct. 15. (source)

I know I've got my calendar marked for that trial. How stupid! Are we seriously wasting all of our tax dollars to send a pop singer to court for an invalid license? Aren't there more, I don't know, important things the court could be deliberating on? I seriously don't understand why this particular issue must go to trial. I realize that the lawyer is making it happen this way, but can't someone, a judge, a clerk, another lawyer, someone, make this stupidity go away? Ugh!

That's it for me. I need to go brush this bad taste out of my mouth.

Later!

Yeah, Paris Hilton Needs to be Banned From Music

So, in celebration of her new reality TV show My New BFF, Paris Hilton has recorded its theme song. Its all over the internet right now. I haven't been able to bring myself to listen to it yet, but it is getting some halfway decent reviews. You can check it out here and here and here, plus a trillion other places as well. I realize that her boyfriend, Benji Madden, is in Good Charlotte and helped her a lot with writing, producing and probably even singing the damn thing, but I still just can't make myself listen to it. There are numerous reasons.

1. I spent the majority of a week trying to get that stars are shining song of hers out of my head a year or so again and am not looking forward to repeating the ear drum puncturing that it required.

2. The basis of her new show is for people to compete to be her best friend. Since when does being Paris Hilton's BFF really help a person in the real world? She's just going to start some battle royale with the winner within three weeks anyway, what's the point? Unless you enjoy being verbally abused and puked on after a long night of clubbing and driving her drunk ass to Taco Bell at 4 am.

3. She's famous for being famous! I can't condone that! I just can't do it.

So, no Paris Hilton theme song for me. But feel free to indulge all you want. I'm sure I'll end up hearing it at some point inadvertantly anyway. Now I'm going to go shower to try and clean of the residue of my principles shattering from actually dedicating a whole blog post to Paris Hilton's music career. Blurg!
Later!

Color me... Not Surprised

Well big surprise, people, Clay Aiken just came out of the closet. Check it out:

Clay Aiken has revealed that he is gay in an upcoming cover story for People Magazine, on newsstands Friday. The magazine's cover boasts the pullout quote: "Yes, I'm gay." "It was the first decision I made as a father," Aiken says inside the magazine. "I cannot raise a child to lie or to hide things. I wasn't raised that way, and I'm not going to raise a child to do that." The 29-year-old pop star's sexuality came under increased scrutiny when he admitted to fathering a child with fiftysomething Jaymes Foster, sister of famed music producer David Foster. Parker Foster Aiken was born Aug. 8 in North Carolina, with Aiken writing on his blog that all families involved were "thrilled." The born-again crooner acknowledges that revelations regarding his sexuality may be difficult for some in his fan base. But he also stressed that it was necessary for him to own up to what everybody kind of already knew for Parker's sake, so his son can be raised in an atmosphere that is "accepting and allowing him to be happy." (Source: E Online)

Sorry Claymates, but that guy has screamed "I'm gay" from the moment he walked on the American Idol stage. I applaud him for finally being honest with his fans and respect his need for privacy, but really, was it so bad to come out? Well that's all water under the bridge now. Congrats on having the courage to come out, Clay. Now do something about your hair already! You remind me of Chucky from Child's Play. Eww!

Later!

Of Course There's Video...

No word on whether Kanye has posted bail yet, but I did return from lunch to find the video of the attack on TMZ.com. Click on the link to check out Kanye and his bodyguard going all crazy on some camera men.

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid285859616/bclid294430730/bctid1788889337

I particularly enjoy the part where Kanye is saying there are no police. Good stuff man, good stuff. You know that TMZ camera man just made a lot of money today.

It Was Only a Matter of Time

Things have been a bit busy around here lately, so I haven't had much of a chance to write. I'm hoping my schedule frees up a bit more soon so I'll have a chance to write more. Luckily, I have a little bit of time today, so here we go.
The biggest story that happened this morning was Kanye West. He's been all over the place lately, starting and ending feuds left and right. First he was never going to be on the Mtv Video Music Awards again, then he closed the show. Stuff like that. It was only a matter of time before he started a feuds with the paparazzi. Unfortunately, this was not a feud of words. Here's the scoop:
Kanye West and one of his bodyguards were arrested Thursday at Los Angeles International Airport after an altercation with paparazzi in which the rapper allegedly smashed a camera on the floor. Airport police arrested West and his road manager, Don Crowley, who also serves as a bodyguard, on suspicion of felony vandalism shortly before 8 a.m., LAX spokesman Marshall Lowe said. He said early reports indicated that a camera valued at more than $10,000 was broken. The incident happened before West and his bodyguard passed a security checkpoint at an airport terminal that houses American Airlines. The pair were scheduled to board a flight to Honolulu, Hawaii, Lowe said. West's publicist declined to comment Thursday. (source)
I can't say I'm surprised by this news. Kanye's a powder keg waiting to explode. What I'm surprised about is that it took him this long to explode at the paparazzi. I think this is the first time he's been arrested for assaulting the paparazzi, which must have taken a lot of restraint on his part. The details are still emerging on this one and West is still in jail, though I'm sure he'll be out by the time my lunch break is over. Then he gets to join the illustrious group of celebs who've assaulted a camera man. Welcome to the club Kanye, we've been waiting for you!
In other timely news, Warner Bros. studios announced today that they will indeed be re releasing The Dark Knight in movie theaters sometime in January. This is basically to generate more Oscar buzz for Heath Ledger and crew. Here's the story:
No exact date has been settled on, but Warner Bros. is planning to rerelease the box-office behemoth in January, just in time for a final Oscar-season push before Motion Picture Academy members have to turn in their ballots. The relentlessly bleak and critically beloved Batman sequel is already the second-highest grossing movie of all time in the U.S., where it falls about $78 million short of Titanic's $600.8 million in box-office receipts but towers over fellow comic-book-inspired films. But it was the early Oscar buzz for Heath Ledger, who curdled blood as the murderous Joker, as well as for Christian Bale, director Christopher Nolan, and the film's effects and visual artistry that really differentiated The Dark Knight from its superhero brethren. And while Ledger's performance will still be rattling around in most brains even without the extra theater time, the fact that the film will be back on the big screen just in time for the one-year anniversary of his death on Jan. 22 will make the late actor doubly hard to ignore when it comes time to pick the '08 Academy Awards field. (source)
I've been saying this was going to happen ever since the movie was released. Many summer movies that are considered award favorites use this particular technique to remind voters and the public of their movie, which can get lost among the deluge of Oscar baiting films that are released from October through December. Now, I kind of doubt that Warner Bros. would be so tacky as to re release the movie on the anniversary of Heath Ledger's death, but I wouldn't be surprised if they released it the week before, just to generate some buzz. The only way The Dark Knight is going to surpass Titanic as the number 1 grossing movie of all time is by re releasing it in January. The movie's been out for over two months and its losing steam. It needs to keep a low profile, then burst back onto the scene at just the right time in order to make that last $78 million that its missing to become number 1. And pick up a few Oscar nominations. And I'm the kind of gullible movie viewer who will go back to see it in January. What can I say, I loved this movie!
That's about all I've got time for right now. I'll keep tabs on the Kanye thing and see if anything interesting comes of it. More than likely, he'll make bail and get probation, but it is Kanye, so you never know.
Well, I'm off to lunch!
Later!

Stop the Madness!

Seriously, Hollywood needs to find some new creative people because this whole remaking old movies thing is getting really old. Word came down the wire today that the powers that be are contemplating making a sequel to Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II. Say it ain't so!

Variety reports that Columbia Pictures is gearing up to bring another Ghostbusters film to the big screen, ideally featuring all four main characters from the 1984 blockbuster and its 1989 sequel—Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis and Ernie Hudson. Both '80s-era films were cowritten by Aykroyd and Ramis and directed by Ivan Reitman. Lee Eisenberg and Gene Stupnitsky, both executive producers on The Office, have been tapped to pen the new installment—after which, Columbia will approach its would-be leading men. (source)

So its not a done deal and Dan Aykroyd was quoted as telling a radio station last year that if they ever made a sequel, it would have to be CGI or something because Bill Murray wouldn't appear in a live action sequel. So there's hope that the Ghostbusters franchise won't be further tarnished. I mean Ghostbusters II wasn't that great but the original was awesome. Please, someone make them stop!

Bad news for Watchmen Fans, or is it?

So things have been pretty hectic around here lately. Between the holiday weekend, the Vine VIP party and Ron going on vacation, there hasn't been much time for writing. Well really any time for writing. So I took a mini blog vacation. But I'm back, as much as I can be. We're gearing up for the new local sports season, which starts on Friday, and you would be surprised at how much that includes me. But on to some entertainment news.

A few weeks ago, I posted a story about 20th Century Fox's lawsuit against Warner Bros. over the rights to The Watchmen, which is supposed to be released in March of 2009. At the time, it looked like Fox was actually trying to block the film from being released. News comes today of a further development in the case:
A federal judge in Los Angeles has set Jan. 6 as the start of the showdown between 20th Century Fox and Warner Bros. over the movie adaptation of the vaunted graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Gibbons. Watchmen has devolved from a comic book flick into a courtroom drama in recent months, as Fox came forward with a complicated case claiming it still owns the rights to Watchmen and is seeking to block the release of Warners' anticipated film. Fox scored a legal victory last month when U.S. District Judge Gary Allen Feess ruled there was enough evidence to go to trial. But on Tuesday, he shot down Fox's request to halt the March 6 release of the Warners movie, helmed by 300's Zach Snyder and starring Patrick Wilson, Carla Gugino, Billy Crudup and Jackie Earle Haley as a group of ostracized former superheroes trying to save the world and themselves. Instead, according to the Hollywood Reporter, Feess fast-tracked the trial, presumably giving the two studios a chance to reach a settlement in the matter before deciding on potentially harsher measures. (source)
So good news and bad news right? The movie is still coming out on schedule, but there's still going to be a trial. Which could still affect the movie's release, especially if Fox wins. But, most of the media is pretty convinced that Warner Bros. will eventually offer a decent enough settlement to Fox that will probably include a percentage of the film's earnings. Money does make the world go round after all. Especially in the movie business.

That's it for now. Hopefully something interesting will happen in Hollywood later today. Lately its been all about lawsuits and criminal charges, which does nothing for my optimism.
Later!

Zuma? Really?

So the rumors were true. Gwen Stefani did indeed give birth today to a baby boy. Who was then given the name of Zuma Nesta Rock Rossdale. Yup, that's right. I said Zuma. Here's the story:

Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale welcomed their second little prince today, E! News has confirmed. Son Zuma Nesta Rock Rossdale was born Thursday at Los Angeles' Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, joining 2-year-old brother Kingston in the musically inclined couple's burgeoning brood. The family's newest addition arrived at 12:46 p.m., weighing 8.5 pounds. "Mother, baby and family are all happy and healthy," a rep for the couple said in a statement. (source)

Now, I was totally ok with Kingston as a name. Kingston sounds rather English and Gavin is rather English, so it works for me. But Zuma? Was she hooked on the game Zuma while pregnant? And the poor kid can't even go by his middle name either. He's got to choose between a brand of iced tea or a mineral composite. Do they hate this child? Or are they just messing with us by giving the press a fake name? I'm hoping for the later. Until I get a good explanation for this name, I'm not giving my approval on it. Because my opinion totally counts in the Stefani-Rossdale family. Really, it does.

The Rumors Continue

In Touch Weekly (who were the first to correctly report the birth of the Brangelina wonder twins last month) is reporting that Gwen Stafani has checked into Cedars-Sinai Medical Center to give birth to her latest child. Here's what they have to say:
It’s D-day — as in delivery day — for Gwen Stefani! The singer checked into Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and is scheduled to give birth via C-section at 10 a.m. PT. This will be the second child for Gwen, 38, and her husband Gavin Rossdale — and it’s in the same hospital where she gave birth to son Kingston, 2. "Gwen's so excited to have this baby because she gained a lot of weight during this pregnancy," her pal reveals to In Touch. "She is ready to meet her new baby and get her body back." (source)
If its a C-section, then we should know in a matter of hours in Gwen is truly giving birth. And I say that its about time! It seems like she's been pregnant forever! I was assuming that she would pop around the same time that Angelina did, but I guess I was wrong. Just another baby to add to the ever expanding Hollywood Baby Boom (or Hbb as I like to call it). I hope Kingston's ready to be a big brother!

And Now For Something Completly... Odd

Jessica Simpson has signed on to be the face of Stampede Light beer, a vitamin enriched beer made is Dallas. You read that right, the beer has vitamins in it. Check out the first ad:

Not only is she the face of this "healthy beer" but she's also got a 15% stake in the company. Am I the only one who is avidly curious about this beer? Not because of Jessica Simpson. Because I want to see what a vitamin enriched beer can taste like. It can't be worse than Heinekin. Can it?

More Baby Booming.

I guess that young Hollywood has grown up a little this summer. Half of the former "It Girls" are either in relationships or are having babies or are at least getting over their latest stint in rehab. First Nicole hooks up with Joel Madden and has baby Harlow, then Paris hooks up with Joel's twin brother Benji and has a reality show both here and in England, then Ashlee marries Pete Wentz and gets knocked up and finally, Lindsay is either getting it on with her friend Samantha Ronson or she's leading the poor girl on because they are always together and she hasn't been photographed passed out in a car in months! What happened to the scandals? Oh sure, there's still the lawsuits and the fights with the paparazzi, but nothing really scandalous. Which means that, until the next generation of "It Girls" starts getting arrested for throwing their drink at their exes new girlfriend, we'll just have to settle for the ongoing Hollywood baby boom that's been ever present for the past year or so.
The most surprising development in this said boom, well since that whole Clay Aiken thing that still makes me a little nauseous, broke today. Apparently, Ricky Martin, he of the bon bon shaking and living la vida loca, has managed to procure twin boys via a surrogate mother. Here's the scoop on that one:

Ricky Martin has shaken his bon-bon all the way to the paternity ward: The Latino superstar is now the proud father of twin boys. The "Livin' la Vida Loca" singer's spawn were delivered via a surrogate mother several weeks ago, his rep confirmed today. "The children, delivered via surrogacy, are healthy and already under Ricky's full-time care," per the official statement. No further details were made available, including either the tots' names or vital statistics. There's also no word on the identity of the boys' mother. These are the first offspring for the 36-year-old Grammy winner, who has long been an advocate for kids, devoting time to charities that work to prevent the sexual exploitation of children. (source)

Sneaky little minx! This is the first I've heard of Ricky even wanting kids, let alone going through the process of securing a surrogate and taking care of her during the pregnancy and birth and even has the twin boys in his care already! That's a lot of planning to keep out of the eye of the press. Though he does tend to stay out of the spotlight when he's not on stage or at a charity gig and he stays away from Hollywood, so its not surprising that he was able to hide the whole process from prying eyes. Good for him on that front! There have always been rumors that Ricky is gay and, while it wouldn't surprise me if he was, I have always been impressed by the way he manages to steer the media's focus back to his music and charities. That is the way it should be. So congrats on the new babies Ricky!

Another sly lady who's always tried, though rarely succeeded, to stay out of the public eye, is Jennifer Garner, who has also become a member of the Hollywood baby boom (to be called the Hbb for the rest of this post, I'm getting tired of typing it over and over again!). Speculation on Jennifer's first pregnancy (with two year old Violet) and her marriage to Ben Affleck were rampant, but never really confirmed by the couple. This time around, they seem to find no reason to change their game plan. In fact, before the baby bump watch began this time on Jennifer, rumors were rampant that she and Ben were divorcing. The minute the bump watch began though, those rumors died. Now its all about the baby bump and the house search. People Magazine is claiming that Jennifer actually did confirm her second pregnancy today. Here's what they have to say:

Jennifer Garner finally confirmed Wednesday what her baby bump has made clear for weeks – that she and husband Ben Affleck are expecting their second child. "We're so excited, obviously," Garner told Access Hollywood at Walt Disney's 10th Anniversary party for the Baby Einstein line of merchandise. Garner joked about the endless speculation – even crediting her obvious pregnancy to "carbs for breakfast." "It always makes me laugh when people say 'Is she?' 'Isn't she?' It's like eventually you will know, so just chill out for a minute," she told Access Hollywood. (source)

Congrats to the Afflecks on their newest project. Every picture I've seen of Violet is absolutely adorable and they obviously enjoy being parents so way to go. Now we all can stop staring at pictures of Jennifer Garner's stomach and obsess about someone else's.

One final addition to the Hbb todaym which was actually just announced as I started writing this post. Matt Damon and his wife, Luciana, have welcomed a baby girl.

It's another girl for Matt Damon and his wife, Luciana, his rep tells PEOPLE. "Matt and Lucy Damon had a baby girl named Gia Zavala on Wednesday, Aug. 20th. Everyone's doing great," Damon's rep, Jennifer Allen, tells PEOPLE. "She is a healthy baby girl." The newest addition is the third little girl in the Damon household, joining big sisters Isabella, 2, and Alexia, 10. (source)

More congrats on the latest addition to the baby boom. I'm sure the new Garner-Affleck baby and Gia will have lots of play dates in the future.

So, I'm about babied out today. If I keep writing about babies, my husband is going to start getting nervous. I keep telling him that its not my fault, there's something in the famous people water! They just keep getting pregnant! Luckily, I'm not famous, so I don't get that water.

Things around here are basically the same. We're winding down the qualifying on the Vine VIP Party, so if you haven't won yet, you've better head on over to KVYN.com to find out how!

Later!

Some Rumors Do Come True

Well, the last time I wrote, there were lots of rumors going around about events that were supposed to happen over the weekend. Of all those rumors, only one came true. Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi did indeed get married. And, of course, People Magazine has the photos.
Saturday evening was full of love, laughter, and a few tears for Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, who exchanged personal wedding vows in front of their closest family and friends at their home in L.A. In an exclusive interview and photos, DeGeneres, 50, and de Rossi, 35, share the most romantic moments of the night with PEOPLE. "What can I say? I'm the luckiest girl in the world," says DeGeneres. "She's officially off the market. No one else gets her. And now she'll cook and clean for me." Amid candles and flowers by Mark's Garden, both brides, wearing designs by Zac Posen, sat on floor pillows along with author Wayne Dyer, who officiated the ceremony. After exchanging Neil Lane rings, the couple and their guests sat down for an all-vegan menu prepared by their personal chef David Silberkleit while Sweet Lady Jane created a vegan red velvet cake for the celebration. (source)
Of all the rumors I heard or read on Friday, this one seemed the most likely. Especially once all the party planning vans started showing up at their house. Congrats once again to the newlyweds!
So Gwen Stefani's still pregnant and Lindsay Lohan hasn't converted, but two out of three isn't too bad.
In other not really related news, the city of Milwaukee finally got something they've been longing for forever: a bronze statue of The Fonz.

A statue of Arthur Fonzarelli was unveiled to a Happy Days-loving crowd on Wisconsin's Milwaukee River today, commemorating the 10-year run of the classic sitcom and its most iconic character in the city where the series was set (but, alas, never shot). Fonzie alter ego Henry Winkler was on hand for the invite-only occasion, as were show creator-director-producer Garry Marshall, stars Anson Williams (Potsie), Don Most (Ralph), Marion Ross (Mrs. Cunningham), Tom Bosley (Mr. Cunningham) and Erin Moran (Joanie), as well as Laverne & Shirley leads Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams. Ron Howard was on location and unable to make the unveiling. (source)

So, yes I'm being a bit facetious, but I'm also being a bit nostalgic. I used to love watching reruns of Happy Days after school (I believe it came on after my daily fix of Hey Dude and Saved By The Bell) and I love the fact that Milwaukee has embraced its place in pop culture by putting up this statue. Now all they're missing is a Laverne and Shirley historical landmarks tour and they are good to go.

And finally, those of you who are comic book fans, Frank Miller fans, or just went to see The Dark Knight in the theaters may have been excited for the movie version of The Watchmen to debut in theaters next March, but 20th Century Fox really wants to rain on your parade. They're trying to block the release of the comic book adaptation by claiming they still own the rights. Here are the details:

Who will watch The Watchmen? Nobody, if 20th Century Fox gets its way. After a major court victory, the studio has announced a bid to block the release of Warner Bros.' anticipated adaptation of the seminal graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. Fox originally tried to develop the project more than a decade ago, but didn't manage to get the film off the drawing board. The studio claims Warners never properly acquired the rights to The Watchmen, and, in a major twist, instead of seeking a share of the would-be blockbuster's box-office gross, Fox is seeking to kill the flick entirely before it unspools in theaters March 6. A federal judge in Los Angeles agreed with Fox lawyers that there's enough evidence to keep the lawsuit going forward—and keep the film's release in limbo. Directed by 300 helmer Zack Snyder, The Watchmen stars Patrick Wilson, Carla Gugino, Billy Crudup and Jackie Earle Haley as a band of former superheroes who find themselves reclassified as criminal vigilantes in an alternate universe circa 1985. As an unknown assassin begins to hunt them down, the heroes try to unravel a conspiracy and thwart a nuclear war. Per its complaint, Fox traces its distribution rights through a series of complex legal agreements that began in 1991, when the studio teamed up with veteran producer Larry Gordon to develop the DC Comics graphic novel. The project stalled and Gordon went packing, leaving Fox, not Gordon, in control of the property, per the suit. But Gordon resurfaced in 2006 and inked a deal with Warners to try to relaunch Watchmen. It's not clear exactly why Fox is asking for an injunction to block The Watchmen from coming out, especially since the film's already in the can, although it could simply be a ploy to gain a large portion of ticket sales. There's also no indication why Fox waited so long to bring its case. (source)

I am actually a little upset by this turn of events. I've never read the graphic novel, nor had I ever heard of The Watchmen before a few months ago. I didn't even really like 300, which is blasphemy to many of the people I know. What can I say, I'm a girl and men in leather underwear don't really do it for me! However, since this movie began filming and more and more attention has been given to it, I've become more intrigued with the story. I may even check out the graphic novel before the movie comes out (assuming it does). I guess we'll just have to wait and see how it all turns out in the legal system. Its funny, I'm a big fan of Entertainment Weekly magazine and my husband just pointed out that this problem with The Watchmen makes the second cover story that they've published, only to have the movie studios change the information. Just last week, they released their Fall Movie Preview with an in depth look at Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince on the cover, only to have Warner Bros push back the movie's release date to next summer. Probably a coincidence, but interesting none the less.

So that's about it for me today. I ran out of time yesterday and didn't get a chance to write, but I did want to tell everyone that they should definitely check out Tropic Thunder in the theaters if they can or are so inclined. I wasn't expecting to like this movie as much as I did and I think seeing it in the theater really added to it. I also saw Mama Mia this weekend as well, which was a good movie, but there are only so many ABBA fans out there, so I won't push for that one as much.

Anyway, make sure to sign up for the new Vine Loyal Listener club before the week is up. We're qualifying five people a day to go to the Vine VIP party next Thursday and the only way you'll get the Vine Songs of the Summer is by singing up at KVYN.com. Its going to be a great party and you'll have a chance to win some amazing prizes!

Later!