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Priceless beauty
Former “Dynasty” star Catherine Oxenberg still has what it takes to win over wealthy admirers. The stunning 50-year-old actress was at the Muscat International Film Festival in Oman late last week when a sheik attending the event offered her husband, actor Casper Van Dien, $2 million dollars for his wife. Casper responded, “That offer is way too low. She is priceless!” Honored with the Golden Khanjar award were Forest Whitaker and Susan Sarandon, and “Black Swan” director Darren Aronofsky headed the youth film judging.
Pilot Season: Torchwood's John Barrowman to Star in ABC's Gilded Lilys Drama
Captain Jack is back!John Barrowman, best-known for playing the immortal Jack Harkness on Torchwood, has landed a leading role in ABC's Gilded Lilys pilot from Shonda Rhimes, TVGuide.com has learned exclusively. The project is an upstairs-downstairs look at the opening of the first true luxury hotel built in New York City circa 1895. Barrowman will play Julius Ashford Lily, the golden boy of the prestigious Lily family opening the hotel. He's mama's favorite son, who's very charming, lucky and loose. As previously announced, Brian F. O'Byrne, Blythe Danner, Madeline Zima, Matt Lauria, Matt Long, Brigid Brannagh, Maury Sterling and Sarah Bolger will also star. The pilot was written by KJ Steinberg (Gossip Girl, The Nine) with Rhimes and Betsy Beers (Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice) executive-producing.
Heather Locklear-Jack Wagner Rumble: Case Closed
Maybe they were just acting out a scene from their old Melrose Place days.Neither Heather Locklear nor Jack Wagner will face charges in connection with an alleged physical altercation between them in late December, the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office confirms to E! News. Both actors, who called off their engagement in November, appeared at an office hearing on Feb. 9, during which they agreed that they didn't want to pursue the matter further. And that was good enough for the court? "No further action is anticipated at this time," says city attorney spokesman Frank Mateljan. What supposedly went down between Locklear and Wagner last year has not been detailed in public records and neither side has breathed a word to the media. One day, all of a sudden, the two were just in court with the possiblity of misdemeanor battery charges hanging over their heads. Locklear was hospitalized overnight last month after her sister, in a panicked call to 911, expressed fear that the actress was going to harm herself.
Rademacher Visits HAWAII Next Week!
Shortly after GENERAL HOSPITAL's Ingo Rademacher (Jax) moved his family to Hawaii, the actor landed a guest spot on the popular CBS police procedural drama HAWAII FIVE-0, which just so happens to tape in the tropical state! "We'd been planning to make this move for a while, and look how it worked out," Rademacher marvels. "The moment I come over here, I got on HAWAII FIVE-0 immediately."Rademacher will guest star in the episode titled "Pahele," airing next Monday, December 5. When a school bus full of children is hijacked and a rather odd ransom demand is made, the Five-0 team heads off on a wild chase to rescue the students. But it may just turn out that Rademacher's character, Malcolm Schaefer, has more to do with the abduction than simply being a concerned father of one of the missing kids! "It was a nice welcome to Hawaii picking up the show just as we were moving there," he shares. "The cast a crew are super nice, like at GH. The whole experience was really fun. Hope I get to do it again!" Tune in to HAWAII FIVE-0 at 10 p.m. EST on CBS.
'Doctor Who' star tackles thief
Doctor Who star John Barrowman has been hailed a hero after he bravely tackled a teenage thief at a hotel.The actor/singer was in Glasgow, Scotland for a concert and was relaxing in his room on Thursday morning when he heard a woman scream for help. He dashed out into the hallway and saw a burglar fleeing the building - so he pounced on the crook and pinned him down until police arrived. Barrowman tells Scotland's Daily Record, "The concierge was trying to sort my air conditioning. We heard this woman scream and shout, 'Stop him, stop him.' We saw this young boy running down the hallway. "I told the concierge to chase him and called the hotel operator and told them to block the staircase so we could get him. The lad had tried to get away through the staff elevator and punched the concierge. "I grabbed the kid's ankles, yanked him to the ground and then pulled him out into the hallway. I pinned him down. My tour manager then arrived and the three of us held him down until the police came."
Hollywood Christmas Parade Tree Lighting
Jack Wagner (Nick, B&b/ex-Frisco, GH) performed two songs for the Hollywood Christmas Parade Tree Lighting Concert at Universal Citywalk, which will air Dec. 12 on the Hallmark Channel.
Video: Jack Wagner and Long-Lost Daughter Reunite After 23 Years
(Video) Yes, you might need a Kleenex.Melrose Place's Jack Wagner (Nick, B&B/ex-Frisco, GH) has been making headlines after his engagement with Heather Locklear was called off, but now he's in the spotlight for a much more heartwarming story, as E! News learns that the soap star was confronted by a daughter he never knew he had. According to reports, Wagner was ready to rock the stage with Rick Springfield at a concert in Boca Raton, Fla., earlier this month when he came face-to-face with a 23-year-old young woman named Kerry right before the show, who told him that he was her father. We're sure the actor was stunned, but more so, he was extremely touched. Wagner invited Kerry to another show the following day, where he told the crowd, "Some of you have seen me, on the boat or around, I've been walking around with this beautiful girl and my daughter found me," and pulled her onstage. That's when she started crying—and shortly after, we did, too. Kerry reportedly grew up in New York City with foster parents—although Wagner's rep tells E! News that he did not put her up for adoption—and hired some private investigators to help track down her biological parents. His rep tells us that the "two reuniting is a wonderful story," and they are expected to spend Thanksgiving together.
Jack Wagner / Heather Locklear Engagement -- Torpedoed By Wedding Plans
Jack Wagner's engagement to Heather Lockear blew up because of the pressures of planning their wedding.Jack tells TMZ ... the wedding plans became so all-consuming, they had little or no time to spend with their respective kids. And there was another complication. Jack says he and Heather decided a blended family was not a good idea, because their kids were too young and it would be too disruptive. So on top of the wedding plans, Jack had to spend time alone with his 2 sons, and Heather spent her remaining time with daughter Ava. In short ... no time for each other. But Jack tell us ... he's still in touch with Heather and they "still love each other very much."
Heather Locklear and Jack Wagner Call Off Engagement
Heather Locklear and Jack Wagner's Melrose Place characters wed on TV almost a decade ago, but there is no real-life marriage in the works for the actors who played Amanda Woodward and Peter Burns."Jack and Heather are no longer engaged," Locklear's rep tells PEOPLE. The longtime couple, who got engaged in August, had Locklear's daughter Ava's stamp of approval. "Ava was so excited when we told her," Locklear, 50, told PEOPLE shortly after the big announcement. "She hugged Jack, said congratulations, and she immediately wanted to see the ring. Then she ran and Facebooked her new stepbrother." The actress was previously married to rockers Tommy Lee (1986 to 1993) and Richie Sambora (1994 to 2006).
Rademacher & Wife Expecting!
Ingo Rademacher (Jax, GH) shared on Twitter yesterday (Nov 14), that he and wife Ehiku are expecting another baby! "We have number 2 kid on the way. Pretty fun."
Hawaii Five-0 Books General Hospital's Ingo Rademacher
Former General Hospital dreamboat Ingo Rademacher is saying aloha to Hawaii Five-0.The actor has signed on to guest star in an early ’12 episode of the CBS drama, sources confirm to TVLine. He’ll play a father whose kid is being held prisoner on a hijacked school bus — a crisis his character may be more involved in than he initially led McGarrett and Co. to believe. This is Rademacher’s first TV gig since wrapping up his nearly continuous 15-year run as Jax on GH. He also recently shot a role in the big screen thriller I, Alex Cross, due out next year.
Heather Locklear, Jack Wagner Hit the Beach for Her 50th Birthday
(Photo) Life's a beach for Heather Locklear!Looking fabulous at 50, the actress spent her birthday vacationing in Hawaii with fiancé Jack Wagner. The former Melrose Place costars were photographed strolling barefoot along the windy shoreline with their arms around each other, appearing relaxed and tan. Locklear looked spectacular in a black bikini with a sheer black cover-up over it, while Wagner, 51, wore a bathing suit and a T-shirt. The pair announced their engagement in August, but have not confirmed a date for the wedding.
Jack Wagner Is Engaged
Heather Locklear was glammed up and glowing when she stepped out recently for a charity event, and with good reason – she's engaged.The Melrose Place alum, who turns 50 in September, is set to wed her longtime boyfriend, actor Jack Wagner (Nick, B&b/ex-Frisco, GH), 51, her rep confirms to PEOPLE. The couple have been dating since early 2007. Locklear, who's recently been photographed with a diamond stunner on her finger, was previously married to rockers Tommy Lee (1986 to 1993) and Richie Sambora (1994 to 2006), whom she has one child with, Ava Elizabeth, 13. "She's in it for the long haul with Jack," a friend of the couple told PEOPLE in 2009.
Try some standup paddle boarding with General Hospital star Ingo Rademacher
Stars from Nashville and Los Angeles often vacation at our beautiful beaches because of the anonymity afforded them here.However, one star from L.A. is here on vacation and is not trying to hide out. While soap star Ingo Rademacher gets some R&R, he will offer private and group stand-up paddleboard lessons at WaterColor through Aug. 26. Rademacher is known as the character Jasper "Jax" Jacks, who he played on General Hospital for 15 years. The Australian-born actor came to the United States in 1994 and went straight to Hollywood. "Australia had a small market for actors," he explained. With his tanned good looks and piercing baby blue eyes, Rademacher landed the job on General Hospital 1 and a 1/2 years later. He wrapped up his final shoot for the soap the day he left to come here and plans to stay through August. Then, it's off to do a movie in Detroit, the Tyler Perry film "I, Alex Cross." On the way north, he plans to make stops in Atlanta and possibly Nashville, where he will make personal appearances. Since General Hospital let him go once before, he said it's possible they might have him come back again. However, after 15 years, he said he has had enough of that. "I'm not sure what I want to do next or what the next step will be," he said. "I have thought about a lot of stuff. I will keep busy." He does know he would like to see a little of "this very large country where each state is different." On his way to Florida's Gulf coast, he took time to make "tourist stops" in New Mexico, Austin, and New Orleans. On his way back to California, he plans to check out the Rocky Mountains. Rademacher has a friend who owns a home in Rosemary Beach, and this is his second trip here. "I love Rosemary, Seaside's Airstreams, and WaterColor," he said, and he plans to see more of the area while he is here this time. "I'm huge into waterways. I love the area and heat. I'm a 100-degree-plus kind of guy. I love to sweat." Knowing Rademacher is athletic, his host arranged for him to meet the owner of YOLO boards when he arrived, and plans were made for Rademacher to spend his "vacation" teaching lessons in stand-up pladdleboarding. "Instead of doing personal appearances while I'm here, I thought I would give stand-up paddleboard lessons," he said. Rademacher has enjoyed the sport for five years, as well as kayak and catamaran racing, paddleboarding and surfing. "The main father of the sport lives by us in Malibu. I saw him doing it and thought I would try," he said. He already owns six boards and prefers the 10-footer. "I have kept an eye on YOLO, and it has come a long way," he said. While here, he will try out all different ones and plans to buy two before he leaves. A race was planned for Friday off Okaloosa Island with him on a 14-footer. He envisions getting on a SUP racing circuit between here and Detroit and making stops along the way, and possibly teach the sport as he makes his way across the country. "SUP has a lot of options and you can do it anywhere," he said. Rademacher brought his wife and 3-year-old son, Peanut, with him on this cross-country trip. "I'm a water man and a physical guy. My son gets on with me and we have a lot of fun," said Rademacher with obvious pride and delight. "Peanut says, 'faster daddy, faster daddy.'" When the Rademacher family returns to the West Coast, he says they will probably settle in Hawaii, where his wife is from. "We already have a house there and her family is there. We are homebodies. We want to settle in one place," he said. The SUP lessons will take place at the WaterColor dock on Western Lake. "I hope to get a bunch of people out for one hour on the water and lunch with me," he said. "I'm excited about this." For more information visit www.yoloboard.com. WANT TO PADDLE WITH A STAR?: Each Monday, Wednesday and Friday beginning August 8th and continuing through August 26th, Rademacher will host one hour group SUP lessons for $100 per person. Sessions are limited to five people to ensure an intimate and personalized experience. Group lessons with lunch following the lesson are $200 per person (lunch only is also $200 per person). Paddlers also have the opportunity to schedule private sessions with Rademacher at $350 per person for the first hour and $100 per person for each additional hour. Call 850-622-5760 for more information.
John Barrowman Teases Doctor Who Return, Attempts to Calm Ianto Fans
Hey, Steven Moffat, are you listening? John Barrowman wants back in on Doctor Who! And from the deafening cheers that accompanied the suggestion at Comic-Con, viewers do too.During Thursday's Fan Favorites panel, Doctor Who star Matt Smith told the crowd that he'd love to welcome back Barrowman, who originated the role of Captain Jack Harkness on the long-running sci-fi hit, for the show's upcoming 50th anniversary. "I would love to do it," Barrowman replied Friday at the panel for Starz's Torchwood. (Full disclosure: This reporter moderated it.) "I think it would be disappointing for the 50th not to have a character like Jack make some kind of appearance." Barrowman added that Torchwood's Russell T. Davies, who rebooted Doctor Who in 2005, and current Who boss Moffatt have talked about it. "And if Matt is welcome to it, I think it could be great," he said. "I'm totally up for it. I love playing Jack. It's the best coat I put on every morning." But on to Ianto (Gareth David-Lloyd), the late lover of Jack who was killed off in the third season of Torchwood. Barrowman said he still hears from the very vocal fans who miss Ianto — and continue to send coffee to Starz -- but suggested it was maybe time to move on. "We, as a show, love the fact that you're all passionate about the characters," he said. "The one thing that we are is a drama, and in a drama you have to do things that will unfortunately upset and cause change. It wasn't our decision. It wasn't our fault, but in order to move the drama on, we had to do something drastic." While Ianto is mentioned in the current season, Miracle Day, he's not coming back — and randy Jack is going to continue to be, well, randy. "Jack's going to have another involvement," Barrowman teased. "It's an absolutely fantastic story" and it will explored in-depth in Episode 7. Another thing that won't pop up -- alas! — is Barrowman's musical talent. He says Jack won't be busting out into song any time soon, even while the actor's most rabid fans, who know he hails from the world of theater, would love it. "I really don't think we'll approach that," he said... right before leading the audience in a round of Annie's "Tomorrow." Do, however, look for Miracle Day to bring the scary. Asked if anything could top the 4,5,6 — the child-draining alien monster that claimed Ianto's life, among others — writer Jane Espenson said Miracle Day has its own serious evil in the wings. "Everybody has been asking me the question, 'Well, obviously, this can't get as dark as the 4,5,6. What could possibly beat those stakes?' I just keep saying, 'Oh, wait...' If you are feeling hungry for dark chocolate and you've been getting milk chocolate, just wait for Episode 5." Bill Pullman, who signed on to Torchwood without ever having seen it because the script was "so good," seconded that emotion. "It was great to discover, as it kept going, it got better and better," he said. "The thing I was really nervous about is that it wouldn't find a way to close — but it does!" No word from Starz on a renewal yet, but the cast is certainly game to come back for more. Says Eve Miles: "It's so easy to slip back in to Gwen Cooper's leathers... It's quite difficult to get me out of them at the end of the day. I go home still in them. She's a wonderful character that I find difficult to let go." "We all hope [to be renewed], and we're passionate about the show," Barrowman said. "We'd love to be doing Torchwood for another five or six seasons." Watch the new preview: here.
'Torchwood's' Barrowman sings 'Annie,' talks coats
Torchwood: Miracle Day's John Barrowman put on a bravura performance for an enthusiastic Comic-Con audience Friday, closing the panel by leading a rendition of Annie's The Sun'll Come Out Tomorrow.Barrowman discussed the iconic coat worn by his character, Captain Jack Harkness. "I have a closet full" of coats, he said. "There's the hero coat, for when I'm walking or with the team (and) the running coat. It flows a little bit better. Everybody has to have a cape," he said. Other coats can be destroyed after bloody scenes. His favorite part of the coat is the epaulets and his cufflinks are airplanes. Barrowman also said he would like to see Captain Jack, who first appeared on Dr. Who, to make another appearance on that series. Miracle Day writer Jane Espenson said she loves the broad range of tones on the Starz series. "It can go from funny to incredibly dark," hinting that Episode 5 will veer strongly toward the latter. She spoke cryptically of upcoming episodes. "Expect a little more flexibility with the timeline … darkness, some losses. Look for big implications."
'Torchwood' star John Barrowman on BBC's cut gay scene: 'It's not gratuitous sex'
Episode 3 of "Torchwood: Miracle Day," airs on Starz this Friday, July 22, and part of it is apparently for American eyes only.The Sun reports a scene, in which Captain Jack Harness (John Barrowman) sleeps with a male bartender, won't make it to air -- on account of its generally graphic sexual nature and not the orientation being depicted. "The UK and US versions of 'Torchwood' are slightly different," a BBC spokesperson says in response. "However, these differences do not change the story in any way and the strong storylines are first and foremost to the series." When Zap2it it spoke with Barrowman on the "Torchwood" set, he did brag about scenes of "full-on man sex" but admitted that it's all in service of the story. "It's not gratuitous sex," he says. "It facilitates the story, so it's nothing they grab just to put on the camera and sensationalize it." And while the encounter in question doesn't look to have much long term relationship potential for Captain Jack, Barrowman does say that there will be some love scenes of a more complex nature as the season moves on. "You go back into history with Jack," Barroman tells Zap2it, "and you discover an integral relationship that is part and parcel to what is happening. It's a massive story about his past and probably, if I can say this, one of his true loves. So there are relationships, but there are also some one-night stands ... some dirty." Fans of the show probably won't take issue with watching either.
'Torchwood' is back, and it's going global
The fact that the BBC series Torchwood and its dashing sci-fi hero were successful in Great Britain seems a minor miracle — even to their biggest fan, series creator Russell T Davies.When the Doctor Who spinoff premiered five years ago, it featured John Barrowman's Capt. Jack Harkness, an immortal, time-traveling former con artist who was also American, something alien to prime-time British television, Davies says. And Harkness is bisexual, in a genre where handsome leading men are usually straight. Plus, Davies says, "he's cheeky and fun. An awful lot of heroes are very sober and strait-laced." Torchwood not only survived but thrived for three seasons. Now it's gone global — the 10-episode fourth season, Torchwood: Miracle Day, kicks off Friday on Starz (10 ET/PT) as a co-production of the U.S. pay cable channel and BBC. For new fans, BBC is releasing the first three seasons on DVD and Blu-ray July 19. In Miracle Day, the Welsh environment from past seasons shifts to Los Angeles. One day, the world's population stops dying, forcing the two surviving Torchwood team members — charismatic Captain Jack and cynical Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles) — to team with two CIA agents and deal with the ramifications as well as a mysterious enemy. "You see each person's reaction to it on a very simple scale. It's not big and flashy. It's based in the characters living in this moment and setting up a great story," says Alexa Havins, who plays innocent agent Esther Drummond. Davies knows many viewers will have no idea what Torchwood is. (It's a secret British organization that defends the planet from alien and human threats.) That's why he has Esther act as the "American guide to Torchwood," Havins says, much like Myles' character was indoctrinated into the group in the first season in 2006. "I will always bring those characters in because you share their point of view," Davies says. "You're wide-eyed, you're wondering what's going on, you're hoping it'll work out for the best. It's like going on a date." Havins is joined by American actors Mekhi Phifer, as CIA agent Rex Matheson, and Bill Pullman, playing against type as a child rapist and murderer who lives through his execution. Davies hopes the show's freewheeling sexuality and dark humor prove to be a draw for newer U.S. audiences, along with the fact that it makes serious statements about society instead of just focusing on starships and laser beams. "It's got very tough things to say about human nature and the human race," he says. "On top of that, it's got Wales. Nothing else has Wales in it." Barrowman says that up to now, his character has been "omnisexual," having relationships with men, women and aliens, though he allows that viewers might think he's simply gay with the trysts he has in Miracle Day. But Davies says those love scenes are important to the character and, later in the season, will begin unraveling his back story. Captain Jack has been lauded by the gay and lesbian community, and Barrowman — who, like Davies, is gay — wishes there were more characters like him when he was growing up than, say, Billy Crystal's on Soap. "I never saw a character on TV whom I could relate to, who was a guy who liked technology 'guy' things, cars and all that stuff," Barrowman says. "When Russell created Jack, it was like a breath of fresh air." Seeing a sci-fi hero in intimate situations remains a pop-culture anomaly. Horror is "where all the sex is coming from. It's where True Blood (and) Twilight are," Davies says. "To get the full range of human experience into these shows — drama and life and death — it should involve sex and love and lust and passion. They're what you're fighting for, really, when you're fighting to save the world and the human race."
'Doctor Who': John Barrowman on 'Torchwood's' Captain Jack staging a possible return
With "Doctor Who" officially renewed for a seventh season, and current companions Karen Gillan and Arthur Darvill likely not around for the ride, the franchise may soon be placing personals ads for new supporting players.But why not cull a companion from the current "Who"-verse? Zap2it caught up with John Barrowman on the set of Starz upcoming "Torchwood: Miracle Day," and the actor told us that a return to the series that introduced his character, Captain Jack Harkness, is never out of the question. "I've always said that if I'm asked to go back to 'Doctor Who,' I'll go at the drop of a hat," Barrowman tells us. "That's where Captain Jack got his beginnings. And it's already been discussed." Barrowman says that both "Torchwood" creator Russell T Davies and current "Doctor Who" showrunner Steven Moffat have talked about the possibility of a return for Jack, who's been absent from the series since the 2008 episode "Journey's End." (We're not counting the silent cameo in former Doctor David Tennant's 2010 swan song, The End of Time: Part Two.") "It's in the cards, but who knows whether it will happen?" says Barrowman, quick to add that his character does have special ties to David Tennant's version of the Doctor. "I like Matt Smith. He brings his own quirkiness to it... When a new Doctor starts, everybody goes along for the journey because they love the show. But then you attach yourself to that Doctor. There's a whole new generation who are now attached to Matt, and rightly so.... but David Tennant is my Doctor." For now, Barrowman is focused on "Torchwood," which could very well find an extended life on Starz after the upcoming run, but the stateside filming of the British series begs the question of whether or not Barrowman is looking to make a bigger name for himself in America. "I run myself like a business, and I enjoy the work I do," he says. "Of course I have ambition to work more in the U.S., but I will never turn my back on the U.K. and what I do there." Scottish born, Barrowman actually spent a lot of his upbringing in American schools. And in 2010, he landed one of his most prominent roles here yet, as a recurring villain on ABC's "Desperate Housewives." "I've always said that I would never just give up and leave the U.K. to come and seek work over here," he says, "but if work brings me over here, that's a different story. There are plans in the future for me to branch out a little more in this market, because, hey, you need a big swashbuckling gay man to do things, don't ya?" We do. And we'll have more from Barrowman, including details on "Torchwood: Miracle Day," as we approach the July 8 premiere.
Rademacher Fired From 'General Hospital'
After a decade and a half in Port Charles, Ingo Rademacher (Jax) is leaving General Hospital."It is with mixed emotions and regret that I write this note to you, my fans and colleagues," Rademacher says in a statement. "After 15 years on GH portraying Jax I must say goodbye. I'm fired. "Yes, I know that's sounds bad but sometimes little birds need a shove out of the nest to find their wings... better late then never? I'm trying to find some humor in all this. Even though this was not my call, I think my GH days were almost up anyway." Rademacher made his GH debut in 1996, taking a short break in 2000 during which time he starred in the primetime soap TITANS before returning to Port Charles the following year. "I would like to thank everyone at GH, the producers, directors, crew, my fellow actors and ABC/Disney for making my 15 years enjoyable and fun. It was always a great place for me to work and I will have fantastic memories. I would again like to thank my fans and especially my "Jax Angels" who have been there for me, supporting me in every way, from Day One. Thank you!" A spokesperson for GH confirms that Rademacher will indeed be exiting the canvas.
'Torchwood: Miracle Day': Now with more sex and money
With a release date and a nifty promo and poster recently revealed, expectations for the upcoming Starz co-production of BBC's "Torchwood," "Miracle Day," are decidedly high.And if all that isn't enough for you, the project is reportedly getting more of two of our favorite things: sex and money. Deadline reports the budget for the 10-part season is triple what is has been for the first three seasons in the U.K., with a lot of that money going to special effects and large-scale stunts. Star John Barrowman points to the season's opening scene, involving a helicopter crash, as an example of the grander scale. "If we were in Wales shooting, we might not have had that, or we would have had to re-write the sequence," he says. "The stunt work is unbelievable. I used to do quite a lot of stunts, except if it was jumping off of buildings, but now I'm not allowed to because of the insurance policy. I'm much more valuable in America." Barrowman is a little more cryptic about his character's bisexual antics. "Jack will have his little dabblings, and the audience will get exactly what they want," he says. "And I had a lot of fun doing it."
'Torchwood: Miracle Day' gets a premiere date
"Torchwood: Miracle Day" will debut on Starz at 10 p.m. ET Friday, July 8. John Barrowman and Eve Myles return as Capt. Jack Harkness and Gwen Cooper, and they'll be joined by new cast members Mekhi Phifer ("ER," "Lie to Me"), Bill Pullman ("Independence Day"), Alexa Havins ("All My Children") and Arlene Tur (Starz's "Crash"). Lauren Ambrose ("Six Feet Under") will have a recurring part."Miracle Day" begins with a day where no one on Earth dies -- including Pullman's character, a murderer who was due to be executed by lethal injection. No one dies the next day either, or the next, plunging the world into an instant population crisis. Phifer plays CIA agent Rex Matheson, who's investigating the calamity and keeps hearing about something called Torchwood that may be connected to it. Havins will play a CIA employee who gets free of her desk job when the crisis hits, and Tur will play a doctor who's trying to care for the suddenly undying population. "Miracle Day" will run for 10 episodes, and creator Russell T. Davies promises a "massive, shattering climax to the whole thing" in the finale.
Off the Map's Jason George Checks Into Castle
Jason George will guest-star in an upcoming episode of Castle, TVGuide.com has confirmed.The Off the Map actor will play an entrepreneur who crosses paths with Castle (Nathan Fillion) and Beckett (Stana Katic) when they head to Los Angeles to visit the set of Heat Wave. Prison Break's Dominic Purcell will also guest-star in the episode as a movie producer. George, 39, has appeared in numerous ABC series, including Grey's Anatomy, Eastwick and Eli Stone. The news was first reported by Entertainment Weekly.
"Gossip Girl" star joins "Georgetown" pilot
"Gossip Girl's" Kevin Zegers has been cast in the Warner Bros. Television pilot "Georgetown."The ABC drama project, formerly known as "The Inner Circle," centers on the young people behind the power brokers of Washington, D.C. The Canadian Zegers, whose previous credits include "Transamerica," "Air Bud" and "It's a Boy Girl Thing," will play the part of Monty. Zegers joins James Wolk, the star of Fox's short-lived drama "Lonestar," and Australian actress Daisy Betts. The latter pair will share a romantic history, complicated by the demands of the characters' all-consuming jobs. The hour-long pilot will reunite Zegers with his "Gossip Girl" bosses Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, who along with Len Goldstein will executive produce.
Off the Map's Jason George Previews His Bad-Boy Character
The relationship between Grey's Anatomy's Dr. Miranda Bailey and Dr. Ben Warren may not have worked out, but there's a good reason: actor Jason George is moving on to play another doctor, this time on ABC's Off the Map (also produced by Grey's Shonda Rimes), premiering January 12."I would love to [return to Grey's], but I can easily see where the network and Shonda may have problems with that," George told TV Guide Magazine at the ABC TCA party on January 10. "With this show launching as big as it's launching right now, it's easiest to just have my face associated with this character." On the jungle-set Off the Map George plays "hard-ass" Otis Cole, who will soon have a hard time defining his relationship with two female doctors. "Otis says early on, 'There ain't no HR department in the jungle,' and then you begin to realize as things go on that there's a reason there are HR departments," says George. "It gets complicated and that gets interesting." George promises that Off the Map will not lack some action. "Most medical shows are medicine and steamy romance, but on our show, medicine and steamy romance share a little room with action and adventure," he says. "The fun part is, that all feeds back into the romance." And though Dr. Cole may currently be his priority, that doesn't mean George wouldn't hop on a plane in a second if Bailey decides to take Ben back. "If they even bring up the idea of me coming back to Grey's, I'm there, because Chandra Wilson is just one hell of an actress. It's like, bring your A-game because otherwise she'll make you look bad."
Heather Locklear Is Not Engaged
Fresh off her 49th birthday fiesta, does Heather Locklear have another reason to celebrate: her engagement?Not quite, the Melrose Place star's rep tells PEOPLE, contrary to tabloid reports: "Heather Locklear and Jack Wagner are not engaged." A friend of the couple also said the two had no plans to tie the knot, saying that reports claiming Wagner proposed at a 49th birthday party he recently threw for Locklear were completely false. "There was no proposal and there is no engagement," the friend tells PEOPLE. "It was a regular birthday party with good friends, candles and a cake, but that's it." Locklear, 49, has been dating Wagner, 51, for more than three years, and a friend of Locklear's told PEOPLE in 2009 that they were "in it for the long haul."
'Glee': 'Torchwood' star John Barrowman wants a role
"Torchwood" star John Barrowman will be headed to these shores this week to begin his stint on "Desperate Housewives" -- and taking a meeting for a certain other show, a little one about high-school kids in a show choir.Yep -- Barrowman says he'll be meeting with the producers of "Glee" while he's in the United States to talk about possibly guest-starring on the show. Seriously, how fun would that be? "I absolutely love the show," Barrowman tells London's Mirror newspaper. "What would I play in it? I'm not sure what kind of character I'd like to play. Maybe I could be a teacher, you know, another teacher who comes in and helps out. That's me just kind of brainstorming, but the fact that they want to have a meeting with me is really quite nice in itself. It's so exciting!" Barrowman will begin filming his six-episode stint on "Desperate Housewives" next week, playing, as he puts it, "the most evil character they've ever introduced to the series." As Zap2it previously reported, his character is a man from Angie's (Drea de Matteo) past who finds her on Wisteria Lane and kick-starts the conclusion of this season's mystery story. His first "Housewives" appearance will likely air in April. As for "Glee"? Stay tuned.
"Grey's Anatomy" actor joins new medical drama
From Seattle Grace to Cruz del Sur.Jason George, who has had a recurring role on ABC's "Grey's Anatomy" this season as anesthesiologist Ben Warren, has joined the network's new medical drama pilot from "Grey's" creator Shonda Rhimes. "Off the Map," penned by Jenna Bans, revolves around three doctors who leave the comfort of the United States to work at an isolated tropical clinic, Cruz del Sur. George will play Dr. Otis Abbot, a brilliant ER doctor who likes women, cigarettes, and the occasional dirty joke and works closely with the clinic's founder, Ben Hanley (Martin Henderson). George, whose character on "Grey's" has hit it off with Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson), is a favorite of Rhimes, who also cast him in her pilot last year, "Inside the Box." He also has been a fixture at ABC where he has co-starred on three series, "What About Brian," "Eli Stone" and, most recently, "Eastwick."
'Desperate Housewives' 'big bad' John Barrowman details
In recent weeks, "Desperate Housewives" has made some headline grabbing guest castings, including Heidi Klum, Paulina Porizkova, and Julie Benz. For us, though, the most exciting casting news was the show's announcement that they nabbed John Barrowman.As Jack Harkness, BBC America viewers are well-acquainted with the man behind the sci-fi shows "Doctor Who" and "Torchwood." We're surprised (and delighted) that our readers also remembered him as the ruthless villain Peter Williams on the short-lived NBC show, "Titans." In our opinion, Barrowman is a force of nature. So, when Zap2it spoke to executive producer Bob Daily, we couldn't help but ask about the impending Angie/Gaby showdown and the damage Barrowman will create when he hits The Lane. Warning: Spoilers! Angie has a hard time keeping it together. In the last episode Gabrielle and Carlos overheard the Bolens arguing and now they know something is going on. Where is that going to lead? [Gaby] is going to get into it. We have an episode coming up, uh, where, lets just say, Gaby and Angie take an involuntary road trip together where Gaby gets a little more pieces of the puzzle and sort of get a better understanding of what Angie is going through. I think the audience, by the end of the episode, will know a little bit more about what's going on with the Bolen Family. That's happening in March, so yes Gaby is going to get drawn into this a little bit more. [Note: For more details on Gaby and Angie's road trip, check out Korbi TV's article, 'Desperate Housewives': You Ask, I Answer] The Housewives are never better than when they're snooping on each other. Yeah, exactly. That's the underlying theme of the show. Awesome news about "Torchwood's" John Barrowman guest starring. We already know he's playing this season's "big bad." Can you talk about how he's going to impact the story a little more than we've heard so far? Yes, very excited. Well, we've alluded in the show a couple times to [Patrick], a mysterious man in Angie's past. She has sort of alluded that she's not just running from the law, but from a man from her past who is even scarier to her than the law. And that's John Barrowman. That's the character he's going to be playing. He's going to be showing up on Wisteria Lane and he'll be affecting not just Angie's life, but he'll be affecting the lives of some of the other women, as well, as the mystery speeds to its conclusion in the last four-five episodes. Reports say Marc Cherry has been looking for a while for the right role for Barrowman. Is that true and can you tell me about that process? Marc was a big fan of "Torchwood." It was just a case of him saying, this guy is fantastic, we have to find a part for him. We actually fairly quickly came up for the idea for this one and, luckily for us, he was not only available, but he was a big fan of the show. As those things go and they can be very tricky sometimes, this one went really smoothly. People will be seeing him in episode 19, which I believe is sometime in April, I think.
'Desperate Housewives' snags John Barrowman
Desperate Housewives boss Marc Cherry has accomplished his mission to bring Captain Jack to Wisteria Lane! A Housewives insider confirms that Torchwood’s John Barrowman is joining the ABC soap later this season for a minimum of five episodes. The actor will play the Big Bad at the center of the Angie (Drea de Matteo) mystery. Last summer, Cherry — a big Torchwood fan — met with Barrowman to discuss the possibility of him visiting Wisteria Lane at some point. It was just a matter of finding the right role. Barrowman’s arc will kick off in early April and span the final five episodes of the season.
Fox developing U.S. version of "Torchwood"
Fox is developing a version of the hit British sci-fi series "Torchwood."A more straight-faced spin-off of "Doctor Who," "Torchwood" is about a covert group that investigates and fights alien activity. The title is an anagram of "Doctor Who." Two seasons aired domestically on BBC America as well as last year's well reviewed stand-alone miniseries, "Children of Earth," which broke all ratings records for the network. Unlike U.S. adaptations that have gone awry, "Torchwood" fans can take comfort that the original producing team is on board, led by series creator Russell Davies who is writing the script. The U.S. version will contain a global story line compared to the more localized sensibility of the BBC version. Also, some of the current cast -- most likely John Barrowman, who plays the immortal Capt. Jack Harkness -- might star if the script leads to a pilot order.
Miranda's Getting A New Man
Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes has given Chandra Wilson one whammy of a Christmas present…but she’s going to have to wait until Valentine’s Day to open him…, er, it! Following her painful, drawn-out separation, Miranda Bailey’s long romantic dry spell will be coming to a close thanks to flaming hot actor Jason George.Jason, who got his start on NBC’s daytime soap Sunset Beach and the peacock net’s short-lived primetime soap Titans, has more recently become a darling of ABC with roles on What About Brian, Eli Stone and Eastwick. But Rhimes personally fell in love with Jason as one of the stars of her (unaired) pilot, Inside the Box, which starred other recent Grey’s visitors, Kim Raver and Sarah Drew. George will begin taking Bailey’s breath away in mid-February as anesthesiologist Dr. Ben Warren. “We’re excited that Dr. Bailey’s going to be getting a little bit of loving,” Rhimes tells me. “When we first read her pages with (Jason) in the read-thru, all our actors went, ‘Oooo.’ It’s really cute to see Bailey get some attention.” Rhimes describes Dr. Warren as “confidant,” but it will take him awhile to win over Miranda. “True to Bailey’s style, when she first meets him she doesn’t like him,” Rhimes teases. “But she learns to.” Asked how long Dr. McAnesthesi might be sticking around Seattle Grace/Mercy West, Rhimes is taking the let’s wait and see approach. “It’s been delightful to put them together,” she says. “We’re going to see what the chemistry’s like and see what happens.”
Victoria Principal Prepares to Blast into Space
Beam her up, Scotty!Former Dallas star Victoria Principal has signed up to take a ride in the world's first commercial passenger spacecraft, the VSS Enterprise, which was unveiled Monday in the Mojave Desert by space pioneers Sir Richard Branson and Burt Rutan. "Going into space fulfills many desires I have of seeing the planet, going fast, going someplace very few people have been – and hopefully coming back down!" Principal tells PEOPLE. The actress, who is also a skin-care magnate and an amateur race car driver, says space travel has always been her fantasy. She wrote a TV movie script 30 years ago about the first female astronaut, before there even was such a thing, and two of her favorite movies are 2001: A Space Odyssey and The Right Stuff. At $200,000 per ticket, the Enterprise is the world's most expensive day trip. The two-pilot, six-passenger craft will be carried to the edge of space by a carrier plane, much like the space shuttle. Passengers will see the curvature of the planet and experience weightlessness. Virgin Galactic, a company within Branson's Virgin Group, hopes to begin testing the craft early next year, with the first flights to begin in 2011. Principal, 59, says she's frustrated that the first passengers will be chosen randomly, since she was the third person to buy a ticket – and the first woman to sign up. "I'm a passenger in something that is pioneering," Principal says. "This will become to our great-grandchildren what Wilbur and Orville Wright were to you and me."
Torchwood Planning Fourth Season
Torchwood might not have concluded its run at the end of the thrilling miniseries Children of Earth after all - Ianto’s tragic death not withstanding. The new year could bring some “very good news” for fans of the sexy sci-fi series, creator Russell T. Davies tells TV Guide Magazine.“The recession has hit British television, but fingers crossed, it will be a go. We expect things to start to move in January. We’ve got great ideas for the show. I think there’s a further lease on life for many years to come, but certainly for a [fourth season],” Davies says. John Barrowman is finishing his run in “La Cage Aux Folles” in London, so there’s plenty of time to trade his feather boa for Captain Jack’s trench coat.
GH Star Weds
A GH spokesperson confirms that Ingo Rademacher (Jax) wed fiancé Ehiku in a private ceremony in Malibu on October 3 with close friends and family in attendance. Before the eco-friendly reception, the groom was seen with his groomsmen riding in a golf cart singing "Going to the Chapel" and then serenading his bride-to-be from below her balcony window before they said "I do" on the cliffs of Point Dume overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Congratulations to the happy couple!
Kevin Zegers to play Taylor Momsen's love interest
Hey, remember Jenny Humphrey, the blonde girl we only see in the promos for "Gossip Girl" when we aren't following the gang's college life?Well, Little J is finally going to get more screen time and she'll be heating it up with a romance, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Kevin Zegers will play Damien, Jenny's international love interest for a multiple-episode arc, and of course, he'll be a bad boy. Happy love stories don't happen often or they don't tend to last on "Gossip Girl." We wonder if he'll play a much older guy as well. Zegers is 25 in real life, while Momsen is only 16. Yikes! Regardless, we're just happy to get more on Jenny, who's been stuck back at Constance Billard while the others are seeking higher education and even greater social status. Zegers is best known for starring opposite Felicity Huffman in "TransAmerica." He's also appeared in "The Jane Austen Book Club," "50 Dead Men Walking" and "The Narrows." Rather coincidentally, he'll soon begin production on "The Story of Bonnie and Clyde," playing one half of the thieving due opposite Hilary Duff (Casting coup alert!), who gets her own guest arc on "Gossip Girl" starting Monday, Oct. 5. She'll play a former child star and Dan's (Penn Badgley) love interest, which is a relief from Georgina's (Michelle Trachtenberg) attentions. Or will she become territorial?
Canadian-born Zegers ditches lighter fare for role in 'Fifty Dead Men Walking'
The gritty streets of Belfast play a central role in the Irish Republican Army drama "Fifty Dead Men Walking," but for Canadian actor Kevin Zegers they also represent a pivotal stage in his acting career."I was in a pretty dark place being there," he recalled of filming in the Northern Ireland capital. "The world didn't exist outside of Belfast for me, and I cut certain ties with a lot of people, and secluded myself. It was really one of the first times where I embraced the fact that I am an actor." These days Zegers, 24, is closer to the Sunset Strip than Ireland, but he fondly remembers his experiences filming the fiery political drama, partly because it's helped secure his status as an actor on the cusp of super stardom. The Woodstock, Ont.-born actor's performance has gained plenty of attention in recent months and probably helped him land a starring role alongside Hilary Duff in "The Story of Bonnie and Clyde," which starts shooting later this year. It's almost easy to forget that Zegers lucked into the "Fifty Dead Men Walking" role, after struggling for years to breakout from comedies into more dramatic fare. The film is directed by fellow Canadian Kari Skogland, who also helmed "The Stone Angel," which Zegers appeared in. The two have been friends since Skogland directed him in a Swanson TV-dinner commercial, when he was young. Skogland said she knew that Zegers was more capable than others might've thought, and that he could pull off a meaty character. She wanted to give him a chance to shine. "I wanted someone who had that impish charm that he has. You know, sort of, great looks and yet have a dangerous edge," she said. "I wanted to surprise people a little bit, and not kind of go for the obvious or expected." Zegers admits his friendship with Skogland helped him land the job but he said he worked hard to live up to the part. "This was never a role that I would've ever been able to get on my own, if I hadn't known Kari, so I felt an obligation to her to get it right," he said. "I felt an obligation to myself to throw vanity and all that crap out the window." "Fifty Dead Men Walking" is based loosely on the true story of former IRA infiltrator Martin McGartland, who is portrayed in the film by British actor Jim Sturgess from "Across the Universe." Zegers plays McGartland's best friend Sean, a young scrapper who introduces the IRA into their lives. The two eventually become entangled in a dangerous situation when McGartland is recruited by the British police to spy on the IRA. When Skogland offered him the role, Zegers jumped at the opportunity to leave his Los Angeles digs behind and race off to Belfast to prepare. "I knew I needed to do a lot of work to get ready," he said. "I wanted to put on a lot of weight, and to get the accent right, and sort of be as unrecognizable as I could to just blend in." Last year, when the film debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival, it was met with objections from the real-life McGartland, who was given a new identity after being discovered as a mole. He complained that the film, which is based on his autobiography, misrepresented the facts in several scenes, and placed him as a witness to situations that he never actually saw. McGartland initially threatened to come out of hiding to protest the film's premiere, and launch a lawsuit against the producers. But both sides reached a settlement worth $37,500, according to a report in the Hollywood Reporter. The agreement made McGartland promise not to interfere with the film's release, while the film now includes a disclaimer which clearly states that some of the scenes and characters have been changed. While the controversy over "Fifty Dead Men Walking" has been put to rest, Zegers's "Bonnie and Clyde" project is bound to get tongues wagging in its own way. The original 1967 film courted controversy with its graphic violence, but its also fast-tracked the careers of Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty. "I've been working with a couple people on figuring out how to make sure I'm not copycatting anything," Zegers said. "It's obviously big shoes to fill." "Fifty Dead Men Walking" opens July 31 in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Halifax, Moncton, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Calgary and Edmonton and Aug. 7 in Victoria.
BBC's 'Torchwood' invasion continues in 'Children of Earth'
"We are coming."A mysterious alien race issues this creepy warning on Monday night's five-episode return of Torchwood(BBC America, 9 ET/PT). And while an extraterrestrial invasion seems like plenty to handle, that's only a fraction of the trouble. Torchwood, a British sci-fi drama about a team of paranormal investigators, has gained a passionate if small U.S. fan base (about 500,000 viewers for premiere episodes) over the course of two 13-episode seasons. But this year the Doctor Whospinoff tackles new territory by highlighting one story that airs over five consecutive nights. "It's becoming a new tradition in Britain — the five-night schedule," says creator and writer Russell Davies. "It started a couple years ago with a drama called Five Days, and then there was another drama last summer called Criminal Justice that was absolutely brilliant. So when they offered it, I was very excited, because very rarely do you get the chance to write in a new format." Torchwood: Children of Earth picks up about a year and a half after the shocking second-season finale, which killed off two of the show's five main characters. In the first hour, agents "Captain Jack" Harkness (John Barrowman), Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles) and Ianto Jones (Gareth David-Lloyd) spring into action when alien activity is detected. "When you see him in Series 3, he's darker, and he's a different guy," Barrowman says of Jack, now romantically involved with Ianto. "He's ready to do things differently than what he did before: getting into relationships, being more open with people. But then, something happens, and he turns. He has to go back to the Jack he was." One of the most unsettling aspects of Children of Earth is that the aliens communicate through the world's children. Eerie scenes depict kids speaking in unison and being abducted by other life forms. "The image of the children stopping and all speaking with one voice is actually (something) I've had in mind for a long time," Davies says. "It could've been a Doctor Who story, it could've been a Torchwood story. Eventually, along came this five-hour format, and it just fit." The plot also allows viewers to learn more about the personal lives of the Torchwood team. By the end of the first hour, Gwen, Jack and Ianto develop emotional connections to children. Davies says, "It's the fact that we're so protective of our children — and our children are so unknown to us in many ways as well — that makes the story so much more powerful. Everyone in the world has something at stake in this story. It's not about the politicians, it's not about the military leaders, it's not even about the scientists and the leaders of society. It's about every single home in the world that's touched by a child. It just updates the stakes massively." The miniseries aims to attract new fans as well. Says Barrowman, "You can come right into this and not have to know any back history. Everything is explained about the characters at some point, for instance, Jack not being able to die." Children of Earth, which helps launch BBC America's HD channel this week, earned impressive ratings when it aired earlier this month in the U.K. High overseas viewership will increase its chances of renewal. "We're all dying to see the show come back," Davies says. Barrowman says he hopes the series could return with "two week-long episodes" instead of one. But could this alien invasion also lead to devastating consequences, similar to past seasons? Davies laughs. "You'll have to wait and see," he says. "We loved the shock, in Season 2, of killing off two characters. Now Torchwood viewers expect everyone to die. So it makes the whole world more scary. It means nothing is safe."
BBC's `Torchwood' returns with 5-part miniseries
Aliens have possessed the Earth's children and all of humanity is under threat. There's a planet to save, a government conspiracy to defeat and some tangled relationship dilemmas to sort out. Sounds like a job for Torchwood.The BBC's top-secret team of alien hunters is back for a third series, led by Capt. Jack Harkness (John Barrowman), an immortal, omnisexual adventurer with a cheeky grin and a World War II military overcoat. "Torchwood: Children of Earth," a miniseries running over five nights starting Monday on BBC America, aims to provide an intense burst of adrenaline to viewers hooked on the show's distinctive blend of action, humor, sci-fi and sex. The new series takes on a darker tone, with the team reeling from the deaths of two members, cynical medic Owen Harper and tech genius Toshiko Sato. That's just the start of their problems: The world's children are being used as conduits for messages from a sinister alien force, and civilization itself is under threat. On top of that, Barrowman said, "Someone is hunting Torchwood down to destroy us. And it turns out to be the government." "It's a double-edged sword: We're trying to save ourselves and the planet," said the 42-year-old Barrowman, who was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and raised in Illinois. "Torchwood" began in 2006 as a spinoff from the long-running British sci-fi series "Doctor Who" — its name is an anagram of the parent show's title — but aimed at a more adult audience. When not guarding an alien-spewing rift in the Earth beneath the rain-slick streets of Cardiff, Wales, team members fight, flirt and form relationships of both the same- and opposite-sex variety. Over the first two series, viewers have seen Jack start an affair with quipping office administrator Ianto Jones (Gareth David-Lloyd), while emotional anchor Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles) struggles to balance battling aliens with marriage to Rhys (Kai Owen), a down-to-earth trucker now promoted to unofficial member of the team. Owen is reveling in the bigger role for Rhys, an "average Welsh boy" who spent much of the first two series believing Gwen was a police officer until a truckload of alien manatee meat led him to discover the truth. "He didn't quite believe Gwen when she blurted out, `I catch aliens,'" said Owen in an interview on the "Torchwood" set in Wales, 150 miles west of London. "By God, he's seen some things now he has, the poor boy. "Gwen's lucky, really. She goes to work to see Capt. Jack Harkness, then she finishes a hard day of killing aliens, she comes home and there's dinner on the table and a bottle of wine." For "Torchwood" fans, those dollops of domestic drama and romance amid the action are part of the show's appeal. "The characters are given just as much room to breathe as the science fiction," said David-Lloyd. "In a science-fiction show it's weird to have so many characters with real human flaws, the sort of problems at home you'd find more in a soap or a drama." The matter-of-fact depiction of a same-sex relationship also sets "Torchwood" apart from much mainstream science fiction. It's an aspect of the show that the openly gay Barrowman is particularly proud of. "I think it's really great and important, because not many shows play that with two male or two female characters," he said. "We always see the boy and the girl having the romance and the courting and the relationship dilemma. We never see it with the other side, which is a perfectly normal thing for us in the `Torchwood' world — and in my world." "Torchwood" is BBC America's biggest-ever hit, and its stars are hot properties on the sci-fi convention circuit — something that continues to surprise and delight them, Myles said. "If somebody had told me, `It's going to be huge in the States, huge in Australia. ... There's going to be action figures, there's going to be magazines, there's going to be books, there's going to be conventions where people dress up as you' — I would have gone, `Yeah, sure. I think I've had too much caffeine,'" she said. Some fans have expressed disappointment that the new series has only five episodes compared with 13 for the first two seasons. Barrowman is sympathetic. "I think it's ridiculous they've cut it down," he said. "It's like we're being punished, because they're taking away episodes." Producers bet that the intense, condensed format would help draw in new viewers in Britain, where "Torchwood" moved from the BBC2 channel to BBC1, home of the network's biggest, highest-rated shows. The gamble paid off — "Children of Earth" doubled the show's previous ratings, although the plot's twists dismayed as well as delighted longtime "Torchwood" fans. There's no word yet on whether there will be a fourth series. Barrowman says he'd be happy to appear in "Torchwood" forever — as long as the immortal Capt. Jack is allowed to age. There is," he said, "only so much Botox in the world."
John Barrowman slams Torchwood cut
John Barrowman has said a decision to make just five episodes for the new series of Torchwood felt like a punishment.The series - which stars Barrowman as Captain Jack Harkness - will see a new adventure, Children of Earth, told over five episodes. "The five episodes, the mini-series as I call it, are incredible - I have no doubt about that - but personally, I felt like we were being punished," the star told the Radio Times. The programme's popularity has seen it jump from BBC3 to BBC2 and most recently to BBC1 for the new, third series. Barrowman continued: "I'm going to get a little political and I'll probably get into trouble for it. "We were the most successful show on BBC3, ever. We moved to BBC2 because the ratings were so good; the ratings were great again (averaging 3.1 million) and we were beating shows that had been on BBC2 for a long time. "Other shows move from BBC3 and 2 to 1, and they don't get cut. So why are we? It felt like every time we moved we had to prove ourselves." The show's writer and creator Russell T Davies defended the changes. He told the magazine: "Part of us thought: 'We could do another 13 episodes, we've learnt how to do that, and the second series was better than the first'. But why not change it?" A BBC spokesman said: "We wanted to create a powerful sense of event when the show came to BBC1 and so talked with the show makers about a story that could run over five consecutive days. This is something we have only ever done before with Criminal Justice and Occupation."
What's With Heather Locklear's Mystery Ring?
Heather Locklear is having an on-again, off-again relationship – with a diamond ring.The actress has been spotted around L.A. wearing the dazzling bauble on the ring finger of her left hand, including when she arrived at Los Angeles International Airport from a trip to New York City with longtime boyfriend Jack Wagner on June 10. Two nights later, she hit the red carpet at the Crystal and Lucy Awards looking stunning in a green printed Max Mara frock, but sans the sparkler. On June 14, the ring was back on as Locklear, 47, lunched in Beverly Hills with Wagner, 49, her daughter Ava, 11, and a pal of Ava's, but she quickly slipped it off when she noticed photographers outside the restaurant, says an observer. "She's in it for the long haul with Jack. Their friends know their future is together," says a friend of the couple, who insists they’ve made no announcements that they intend to wed. "But they're not officially engaged." Locklear's publicist has denied that the actress is engaged, and declined to comment on the ring switcheroos. Happy Times: These are happier times for Locklear, who has been reveling in her healthy relationship with her former Melrose Place costar. "They're having so much fun. They just had a really fun trip to New York together, and they have plans for over the summer. They're just enjoying being together," says the couple's pal, adding, "Things are great between Heather and Richie [Sambora, Locklear's ex-husband] too, and Jack and Richie. It could not be a more healthy situation for everyone." Indeed, on June 14 the pair – who have been dating since early 2007 – seemed completely in love as they shared pizza and salad in Beverly Hills with Ava and her friend. "Jack and Ava seemed to get along great, and at one point they even ganged up on Heather and made her blush by telling a funny story about her," says an observer, adding that Wagner was "very sweet and attentive” to Locklear. "Heather was in a great mood. They all seemed to be having the best time."
LISTEN: 911 Calls by Victoria Principal and Maid
Victoria Principal and her maid both put out emotional pleas for help after a confrontation at the actress's Malibu home, according to tapes of the calls."[She] want to kill me," housekeeper Maribel Banegas tells the emergency operator Dec. 26. "I need help. She's pointing a gun. She's going to kill me. She's after me." In her own call, the Dallas star portrays Banegas as the problem. "I have a housekeeper that I don't really know who's on the premises," Principal is heard saying. "She's locked herself in the guesthouse and she's robbing me. I told her I'm calling the police and I need you here now. She's threatening and she's locked herself in the guesthouse." Listen to the calls here. No charges have been filed in the case, but both Principal and Banegas have filed lawsuits alleging assault by the other during the clash. Principal accuses the maid of hurting her dog during a walk. Banegas claims Principal threatened to kill her in a dispute over payment. "The 911 call clearly shows my client was in fear for her life," Banegas's lawyer Chris Allgreen tells PEOPLE. "We believe security camera footage on Victoria Principal's property captured this incident and will eventually vindicate my client." Attorneys for Principal did not immediately return a call for comment.
Why Did Victoria Principal Pull a Gun on Her Maid?
This much is certain: After a housekeeper took former Dallas star Victoria Principal's dog out for a walk the day after Christmas, the two women got into a heated argument and Principal pulled a gun on her.But the rest of the story is in dispute, with both sides accusing the other of assault and offering conflicting accounts of the clash. No charges have been filed, leaving the matter in civil court, with back-to-back lawsuits filed in the last week. Principal, 59, best known for playing Pamela Barnes Ewing on the long-running TV drama who went on to launch a successful line of skin-care products called The Principal Secret, says in a lawsuit filed Tuesday in Superior Court in Santa Monica, Calif., that the troubles began after she hired maid Maribel Banegas through an agency for temporary work. Walking the Dog On Dec. 26, Banegas allegedly came to work in a hostile mood because the actress sought to terminate her due to her "aggressive behavior toward other staff" and poor work performance prior to the dog incident, according to Principal's lawsuit. When the maid took the dog out for a walk, she disappeared for an hour, although Principal repeatedly called Banegas to return the pet immediately. Principal accuses Banegas of dragging the pooch by its leash into her Malibu home "so roughly that the dog was coughing and wheezing and its eyes were bulging," according to the lawsuit, which says the dog suffered an injured back. Banegas then allegedly "pounded violently on the kitchen counters while yelling ... 'Give me money ... Give me my money' " before Principal asked her several times to leave, the lawsuit says. Maid Files Lawsuit But Banegas, who filed a personal injury lawsuit against the actress on May 1, says she told Principal she was gone for an hour because she was waiting for the pet to do "its business." Banegas says Principal "threatened to kill her" after the housekeeper asked for payment for her services. No shots were ever fired. Principal says she pulled the gun "out of concern for her safety" and because she "was in fear for [her] life." The maid then locked herself in a room, and Principal called 911. According to the actress, sheriff's deputies removed Banegas from her home "after subduing Banegas's attempts to resist arrest." But L.A. Sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore says Banegas "cooperated and agreed to leave the location after a payment dispute." On Jan. 9, Banegas contacted deputies, alleging she'd been assaulted by Principal and filed a report regarding the incident. After an investigation, the case was presented to prosecutors, who eventually rejected the case, citing insufficient evidence, says Whitmore. A rep for the actress had no comment. Calls to Banegas's attorney weren't immediately returned.
Victoria Principal Accused of Gunplay on the Homefront
Perhaps Victoria Principal thinks she's gone from Dallas to Dynasty, because she may have pulled quite the Alexis Carrington.The erstwhile Pamela Ewing is the target of an assault lawsuit brought by a former maid who claims Principal pulled a gun on her after she took too long walking the actress' dog one evening. According to the complaint filed Friday in Los Angeles Superior Court, before she allegedly brandished a fireman, Principal fired housekeeper Maribel Banegas and told her to leave after accusing her of staying away from the house for too long with the pooch. Principal then went upstairs and, instead of returning with her checkbook, which Banegas thought she was going to get, she had a gun in her hand, per the suit. View the lawsuit.
3rd Annual Jack Wagner Celebrity Golf Classic
JACK WAGNER (Nick) will host The 3rd Annual Jack Wagner Celebrity Golf Classic, benefitting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), it was announced.“I lost my father in 1990 to multiple myeloma and in 1999 my brother Dennis was diagnosed with leukemia. He has relapsed four separate times, during each of which he endured chemotherapy and the challenges that come along with recovery. In 2007, Dennis received a complete bone marrow transplant and is still fighting a daily battle against complications associated with this procedure,” said Wagner. “Let Dennis be an example to us all that our efforts truly make a difference. He is still with us today because of new lifesaving treatments, but we must still push for a cure.” Wagner, who was named the number one celebrity golfer by Golf Digest and winner of the 17th Annual (2006) American Century Tahoe Celebrity Golf Championship, approached LLS to create a golf event in support of the Society’s mission: cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life for patients and their families. In its first two years, The Jack Wagner Celebrity Golf Classic has raised more than $600,000 to fund critical cancer research and patient services. This year’s goal is to pass the $1,000,000 mark. Last year, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society awarded Wagner the esteemed Chairman’s Citation Award, which was presented to him by President and CEO of LLS, John Walter, in recognition of Wagner’s significant dedication and commitment to the Greater LA Chapter of LLS. This year’s event will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2009, at The Valencia Country Club in Valencia, CA. Celebrities who have played in previous tournaments include Flex Alexander, Marcus Allen, Billy Ashley, David Berganio, Jr., Alonzo Bodden, Vince Coleman, Tom Dreesen, Kevin Frazier, Wayne Gretzky, Janet Jones-Gretzky, Gregory Itzin, Bruce Jenner, Heather Locklear, Kyle Lowder, Jack McGee, Sean McNabb, Al Michaels, Joe Pesci, Todd Ziele and Jack Wagner. The schedule of events includes breakfast, a shotgun start, golf tournament, a Million Dollar Shoot
$150M buys you late TV producer's L.A. mansion
The widow of producer Aaron Spelling is placing "The Manor" in the exclusive Holmby Hills neighborhood on the market for a jaw-dropping $150 million, making it by far the most expensive home for sale in the U.S.The French chateau-style mansion has 56,500 square feet of space on more than 4.6 acres and is the largest home in Los Angeles County. Among the neighbors are the Los Angeles Country Club and, not too far away, the Playboy Mansion. Spelling's late husband produced hit shows such as "Charlie's Angels," "Dynasty" and "Beverly Hills 90210." He died in 2006. "Everything there is glamorous, and is luxurious and it's really great scale," said Sally Forster Jones, an agent with Coldwell Banker Previews International in Los Angeles, which is co-listing the property. "There really is nothing to compare it to." Spelling told The Associated Press that she let her dog Madison, a soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, help pick out the best real estate agent for the task. She had her security bring the dog into the room every time she met one of the candidate agents and watched how the dog reacted. If Madison didn't like them, Spelling crossed them off the list. Prospective buyers won't have to worry about passing such scrutiny, Spelling jokes. "Not at all," she says. The three-story mansion, built in 1991, is gated and features a winding driveway that leads up to the three-story house, which includes ceilings that reach up to 30 feet high, Jones said. While some published reports put the tally of rooms in the mansion at well past 100, Jones couldn't provide an exact count. Spelling says she doesn't know either. "You're really asking the wrong person," Spelling jokes. "There's a lot. (The house) has evolved and I actually haven't gone around and counted." The Spellings found no shortage of uses for the many rooms in the mansion, however. There's a bowling alley, wine cellar, wine tasting room, gift-wrapping room, a humidity-controlled silver storage room, China room, library, gym and media room, among many others. The screening room is one of Spelling's favorites. "I had some really wonderful times entertaining in that room," she said. "We showed movies and I still do." The room features a movie projection system that automatically comes up from the floor at the same time that shades extend over the windows. It's an idea that came to Candy Spelling in dream as she sought to avoid having a projection screen open all the time. "I wanted Aaron to have the best projection room anyone had ever seen, and the biggest, so I came with this solution, not realizing that we had to excavate a lot of dirt to get down that low, to have a special room that housed the screen that was totally dust free," said Spelling, 63. The Spellings also finished the 17,000 square-foot attic that includes a barber shop and beauty salon. The home also includes a wing for service staff, including a kitchen and seven bedrooms, and five fireplaces and four wet bars. Lavish features also can be found outside the house, including a tennis court, fountains, a waterfall, a pool and spa, a reflection pool and a pool house with a kitchen, and 16 car ports. The estate also boasts an 18th Century-style garden, a rooftop rose garden and a citrus orchard. Prospective buyers won't have to worry much about parking when they host big parties. The property includes a winding motor court with space for more than 100 cars. Spelling plans to trade her mansion lifestyle for a luxurious, two-story condo atop a residential tower in Los Angeles that she bought last year for $47 million. "I have a lot of wonderful, wonderful, wonderful feelings about this house and special things that I went through in building it, with a love that you can't even imagine," she gushed. "Yet I feel like I'm moving on to a new chapter in my life."
Couple Watch
Heather Locklear and Jack Wagner, cracking up guests and livening up the scene at Carole Bayer Sager's new gallery, LA Art House. The happy couple "had a fast, witty banter back and forth with each other," a guest tells us. Locklear joked that she thought Wagner should buy some art to show his support, teasing him, "Let's go with the plastic – the credit card." According to guests, they both laughed as they scouted out the work. Says an onlooker, "They were a really fun couple and so cute."
'Titans' Alum Goes 'Inside the Box'
Shonda Rhimes' ABC pilot "Inside the Box" has added a couple of familiar faces to its cast, and the "Ab Fab" remake at FOX has rounded out its ensemble.Jason George (ex-Titans), who's coming off another ABC show, "Eli Stone," has signed on to "Inside the Box," a drama about the TV news business. So has "Everwood" alumna Sarah Drew, according to The Hollywood Reporter. At FOX, meanwhile, Zosia Mamet and Toni Trucks have joined Kathryn Hahn and Kristen Johnston in "Ab Fab." George and Drew join Martin Henderson on "Inside the Box," which is set at a network's Washington bureau. Rhimes is executive producing and former ABC News producer Richard E. Robbins is writing. George, whose credits also include "Eve" and "What About Brian," will play an on-air reporter, and Drew, who had a recurring part on "Mad Men" last season, will play a low-level employee. The pilot has yet to cast its lead role, a female producer for the network. FOX's "Ab Fab" is a remake of the beloved Britcom that revolves around the self-obsessed Eddie (Hahn) and Patsy (Johnston). Mamet, the daughter of David Mamet, will play Eddie's put-upon daughter Saffron. Trucks ("Barbershop," "All of Us") will play Eddie's assistant.
"Transamerica's" Kevin Zegers gets "Frozen"
Kevin Zegers is packing his mittens and long underwear. The "Transamerica" actor has been cast in the snowy survival tale "Frozen."Zegers plays a snowboarder who gets stranded on a chairlift halfway up a New England mountain, along with his best friend (Shawn Ashmore) and his girlfriend (Emma Bell), as the slopes close for the weekend. The college students must fight the icy elements and a hungry pack of wolves to survive. Written and directed by Adam Green, the film begins production next week in Utah. Zegers movie work has included roles in "The Jane Austen Book Club" and "Dawn of the Dead." He recently was cast as Depression-era outlaw Clyde Barrow, opposite Hilary Duff as Bonnie Parker, in the independent film "The Story of Bonnie and Clyde."
Duff, Zegers to play Bonnie and Clyde
The saga of Bonnie and Clyde is headed for another film telling, with Hilary Duff and Kevin Zegers in negotiations to play the infamous 1930s bank robbers.Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were Depression-era lovers and outlaws whose exploits captured the public's imagination. Their story has hit the big screen several times, with 1967's "Bonnie and Clyde," starring Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, considered a classic. Tonya S. Holly, who is directing the indie drama "The Story of Bonnie and Clyde," stresses that the new film is not a remake and will showcase periods in the couple's lives not seen onscreen before. Holly first became interested in the story of the fugitive lovers after finding old newspaper articles about their exploits in an abandoned house on her family's property. Holly recently wrote, produced and directed the family film "When I Find the Ocean," which stars Lee Majors, Diane Ladd and Graham Greene. Zegers' credits include "The Stone Angel," "The Jane Austen Book Club" and "Transamerica." The actor most recently starred with Ben Kingsley and Jim Sturgess in "Fifty Dead Men Walking." Singer/actress Duff's most recent feature role was "War Inc."
Barrowman sorry for show 'exposure'
Actor John Barrowman has apologised for exposing himself on a live radio show.The star of Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood performed the act during an interview on the Switch programme on Radio 1 on Sunday evening, prompting Corporation bosses to issue an official apology. Though only one complaint was received about the incident, a BBC spokeswoman said the show had "overstepped the mark". Barrowman issued his own apology for any offence his behaviour had caused. The West End actor, whose early TV career was as a children's presenter on Live And Kicking, said the "light-hearted" banter went too far - and promised it would never happen again. He said: "I apologise for any offence I have caused. I was joining in the light-hearted and fun banter of the show and went too far. I was wrong to do this and it will never happen again. "I really appreciate the great support I have received from the BBC over the last few years and would never intentionally do anything to undermine the integrity of the Corporation." During Sunday's show, presented by Nick Grimshaw and Annie Mac, Grimshaw asked Barrowman: "You're famous, we're told for getting your willy out in interviews. Is this going to happen today?" Barrowman responded by saying he was going to "get it out", amid shouting and laughter. He was later heard to say: "I didn't take the whole thing out, but I got my fruit and nuts out." Annie Mac apologised on air at the end of the programme for any offence the incident may have caused. A BBC spokeswoman said: "We do feel that the programme overstepped the mark. We acknowledge this and apologised at the end of the live programme."
Locklear engaged to Wagner?
Actress Heather Locklear has sparked rumours she is to wed partner Jack Wagner after she was spotted wearing a diamond ring on her wedding finger during her weekend arrest.The former Melrose Place star, 47, was taken into custody by police in Santa Barbara on Saturday after a local reported her "driving erratically" upon leaving a parking lot in the coastal city. She was booked for driving under the influence and being under the influence of a controlled substance, before being released on Sunday without posting bail. Photographs of Locklear's arrest have now been posted online - with close-up shots showing the star wearing what looks like a diamond engagement ring on her left hand. The couple, who met on the set of TV soap Melrose Place, has been dating since early 2007. If the wedding rumours are true, it will be Locklear's third trip down the aisle. She wed Motley Crue rocker Tommy Lee in 1986, before divorcing six years later, and she married Bon Jovi's Richie Sambora in 1994. They split in 2006 after 12 years together and are parents to 10-year-old daughter Ava.
Widow of Aaron Spelling pays $47M for LA condo
The widow of producer Aaron Spelling paid a whopping $47 million for a two-story condo atop a Century City residential tower that's still under construction, her lawyer said.The price paid by Candy Spelling for the 16,500-square-foot property works out to $2,848 a square foot, a record price for a Los Angeles condo unit, the Los Angeles Times reported Tuesday. The previous record of $2,700 was set at the same Century tower project in February. Spelling will be move into her unit in about a year, her attorney Stephen Goldberg said. The condo isn't the first record-breaking residence for Spelling. Her current abode, a 123-room mansion that she and her husband dubbed "The Manor," is the largest home in Los Angeles County at 56,500 square feet. The house in the affluent Holmby Hills neighborhood sits on six acres and has 11 bedrooms, 16 bathrooms and amenities such as a bowling alley, doll museum and gift-wrapping room. Related Cos., developer of the Century project, said Spelling's new digs will have a living room with two working fireplaces, a dining room for 25 guests, a 4,000-square-foot master bedroom suite and a conservatory with a rose garden, as well as a swimming pool and deck. Goldberg said Spelling was moving in order to downscale her living space after her husband's death in 2006. She'll now seek to sell her lavish estate, which was built between 1986 and 1990, he said.
Baby Love
GH's Ingo Rademacher (Jax) and fiancé Ehiku welcomed son Peanut Kai Rademacher into the world on July 11. The baby weighed in at 7 lbs, 6 oz. and was 20 1/2 inches long. "Dad, mom and baby are all great," notes a show spokesperson. "The cast and crew of GENERAL HOSPITAL are very excited for Ingo, Ehiku and the entire Rademacher family. We wish them all the best during this important milestone."
Heather Locklear Gets a Visit from Jack Wagner
Still receiving treatment for anxiety and depression at an Arizona facility, Heather Locklear's recent visit from her boyfriend Jack Wagner "really lifted her spirits," says a close pal.Wagner – who hadn't seen Locklear since she left Los Angeles for the facility on June 19 – spent several hours with her last weekend, sources say. On Sunday, the two had lunch together in the facility's dining area. "He looked like he was taking care of her," says an observer. "It was very sweet." Dressed down in sweats and a T-shirt, Locklear, 46, "looked exhausted," says the observer. "Even with no makeup she was beautiful, but she seemed tired, pale and very skinny." Wagner, 48, chatted to Locklear, leaned in to kiss her on the forehead, and at one point during the otherwise quiet meal, says the observer, "He made her laugh."
'The Stone Angel' hits big screen
Margaret Laurence's cautionary tale of repressed passion and regret hits the big screen Friday, with Canadian director Kari Skogland describing her take on "The Stone Angel" as the "sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll" version of the iconic novel.Starring Ellen Burstyn as the stubborn Hagar, Christine Horne as her younger self, and including a brief appearance from "it" girl Ellen Page, the movie recounts the story a headstrong woman who struggles to reconcile her life's destructive choices as she nears death. The Toronto-raised Skogland - whose other projects have included directing the TV shows "Terminal City," "The L Word," and "Queer As Folk" - says she loved "The Stone Angel" when she read it in school as a teen, and discovered she loved it even more as an adult when she revisited the book while searching for a possible film project. "I found a lot of passion in the story that I don't think I had recognized as a teenager, mostly because of the language of the novel," Skogland said during an interview last year at the Toronto International Film Festival. "It was about repressed love and I didn't have the experience to know what that was." The film has a strong sexual element, with racy scenes including one with Page as the girlfriend of Hagar's wild son John (Kevin Zegers) - the core of the multi-generational story remains a character study of the unyielding Hagar. Burstyn manages to infuse the tragic figure with a tender vulnerability and humour beneath a gruff exterior, while father-son actors Cole and Wings Hauser portray the young and old versions of Hagar's charismatic, but flawed, husband Bram. Panoramic views of the Manitoba prairie serve as the backdrop for parallel narratives that flip back and forth between Hagar's youthful exuberance and bitter regret later in life. "I'm always drawn to good writing," Burstyn says of her attraction to the project and the iconic literary figure. "And she's such an interesting character, you know. She's so unique and so strong and aware of what she wants and kind of headstrong but she's a full human being." The veteran Burstyn, whose illustrious career includes "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore," "The Exorcist" and "Requiem For a Dream," says she had never read Laurence until she was introduced to the film project, but immediately fell in love with the writing. "What's important to me is that there's some depth to the character," she said during an interview at the film festival. "I don't really enjoy playing superficial characters because I don't know what I have to say about that.... I like characters with some depth, complexity and difficulty to play." For Skogland, the challenge was in tackling a literary staple so ingrained in the Canadian consciousness. "It was important not to make it too precious and over-intellectualize it, because that's an audience that has a tough time jumping onto that train," says Skogland, currently in post-production with the IRA drama, "Fifty Dead Men Walking" with Jim Sturgess, Rose McGowan and Ben Kingsley. "And I wanted it to be accessible." Certain concessions were made. While the novel was set and written in the 1960s, Skogland's film version is set in contemporary times, flashing back to the '30s and '40s. And when we meet Hagar she is in her 80s, rather than her 90s, to allow for a lengthy foot journey when she learns her son Marvin (Dylan Baker) has been plotting to put her in a nursing home. Skogland says her interpretation is based in a deep reverence for the book, a mainstay of Canadian high school curriculums that is as often scorned by teens as it is glorified by their teachers. "I wanted people to know that there was a lot more in that book than when you slogged through it at 14," says Skogland. "You re-look at it at 30, you start getting it. And it's a wonderful ride." "The Stone Angel" lands in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Victoria, Winnipeg, and Brandon, Man. on Friday. The film opens in Ottawa, Edmonton, Calgary and Halifax on May 23.
`Torchwood' returns for a new season
Attention, fans of quick-witted, Brit-flavored science fiction television: Capt. Jack is back."He's still the same Jack but he's a little more lighthearted," says John Barrowman, who plays cheeky charmer Capt. Jack Harkness on "Torchwood," BBC America's flirty, fast-paced series. "He's resolved a lot of his issues," Barrowman says of his time-traveling, alien-hunting hero who wears World War II-era togs and cannot die. "He's got a new sparkle in his eye." Introduced in 2005 on the BBC series "Dr. Who," Jack is coy about his shadowy past as a Time Agent — akin to an intergalactic CIA operative — turned fast-talking con artist. In the second season of "Torchwood," premiering Saturday (9 p.m. EST), Jack returns to the clandestine Torchwood agency in Cardiff, Wales, where he watches over an alien-spewing rift in space and time beneath the city streets. Together with his hip, young Torchwood team, Jack battles his old pal, the time-traveling psychopath Capt. John Hart (James Marsters of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer"). As always, Torchwood operates outside the law and the British government. It stands tall against all manner of monsters, including a recurring cast of nasty, sewer-dwelling weevils. But Jack and crew still find time for office romance and ill-fated, inter-species love affairs — of the same- and opposite-sex sorts. "Omnisexual is the science-fiction word we like to use," says Barrowman, who sounds very American, both on- and off-camera. Born in Scotland, he grew up in Illinois. "In the sci-fi setting we can talk about things that you probably couldn't talk about on a regular nighttime drama," the 40-year-old Barrowman says. "I think audiences just get Jack because he's honest," he says. "To finally see a character who doesn't care who he flirts with, I think is a bit refreshing." The ace Torchwood team also includes steely Dr. Owen Harper (Burn Gorman), techno-savvy Toshiko Sato (Naoko Mori), office administrator Ianto Jones (Gareth David-Lloyd) and compassionate former cop Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles), who is typically the conscience of the group. All of Jack's cohorts are just as hormonal as he is. "Yes, it is a science-fiction soap opera," says Myles, who is Welsh. Last season Gwen hopped into Owen's bed despite her devotion to her clueless live-in lover, Rhys (Kai Owen). "It was completely out of character for Gwen," Myles says. "But that's what good drama is all about. You don't want to spoon-feed a sci-fi audience. You want to challenge them. So none of these characters are safe." In the future, Gwen "does the best she can" with monogamy, Myles says. "But it's a case of anything is possible with the Torchwood bunch." That includes Gorman's bad-boy Owen, who mutinied on the job last season and killed Capt. Jack, albeit briefly. "There's no question that Owen can go into morally gray areas," says Gorman, who was born in Los Angeles and considers himself a character actor. "`Torchwood' is a very modern, Earth-based sci-fi show," he says. "Owen is very free and open with his sexuality." "In season two Owen actually questions that kind of life," Gorman says. "There's an episode that explains why we all joined Torchwood. It explains, shall we say, Owen's emotional limits. "But season two is also very much about the Torchwood team working cohesively," he says. To executive producer Julie Gardner, "Torchwood" — an anagram for "Doctor Who" — is "warm science fiction." "It's the type of science fiction that has a proper kind of human grounding," Gardner says. That grounding includes turf trod carefully on U.S. television. "You will see relationships develop between two males," Barrowman says. "You will see them show affection for each other. You will see two women show affection for each other." Before moving to England in 1989, Barrowman starred on the Fox series "Central Park West" and NBC's "Titans." In Britain, his career soared with "Dr. Who" and "Torchwood," plus turns in West End musicals. He also is a judge on the musical-theater contest series, "Any Dream Will Do." "The thing about working in television in the U.K., it's about being me," says Barrowman, who is openly gay and in a longtime partnership with architect Scott Gill. "I've been pretty much open and out since I started working over here," Barrowman says. "It's a great reflection on the TV industry here." Barrowman reflects further in his autobiography, "Anything Goes," due for release this month in Britain and later in the U.S. Meanwhile, "Torchwood" has been a blast for Barrowman and his co-stars. "It's one of the best playpens ever," Barrowman says. "I get to go to work and play with gadgets and drive really big, fast cars. I get to shoot aliens and fly spaceships. "And I get to kiss everybody."
Benedicto likes the feel of "Cashmere"
Lourdes Benedicto is set to play a hot lesbian love interest on ABC's new drama "Cashmere Mafia."The show, which debuts December 4, follows the lives and loves of four Manhattan women, played by Lucy Liu, Frances O'Connor, Miranda Otto and Bonnie Somerville. Benedicto will play Somerville's partner. Her TV credits include ABC's "The Nine" and "NYPD Blue," and Fox's "24."
Doctor Who Spin-off Has Torchwood Star All Fired Up
One day John Barrowman may come to resent the kids waiting outside his door for a photo with their hero, Capt. Jack Harkness of the new sci-fi sizzler Torchwood (premiering Saturday, Sept. 8, at 9 pm/ET, BBC America). But not yet."I wanted to be an actor," he says, sitting on the couch of his apartment overlooking the bay in Cardiff, Wales, where Torchwood is shot. "Celebrity has come with that, and I'm absolutely loving it. I love signing autographs!" If anyone spotted Barrowman in America right now, he'd be as likely to get a catcall as an autograph request -- he's probably best known for playing a spoiled rich guy in Darren Star's short-lived Central Park West. But if Torchwood has the same impact in the U.S. that it's had overseas, he may find himself signing autographs from Wales to Wisconsin. Viewers first met Captain Jack, a time-traveling con artist from the 51st century, in a five-episode arc on Doctor Who. He proved so popular that creator Russell T. Davies mixed up the letters of Doctor Who's title to give him his own spin-off. Now reformed, Jack heads up Torchwood, an outside-the-law team of crimefighters who protect the world from alien invasions. That may sound like any other sci-fi series, but Torchwood is a far edgier proposition. Though it works as a plot-driven romp with all manner of eye-popping creatures (from evil fairies to sexy fembots), it also deals with adult themes. And with the character of Captain Jack, Torchwood can lay claim to the 21st century's first bisexual action hero. "He's got something for everyone," Barrowman says. "Women think he's sexy, some young people find his bisexuality is something they can relate to, and kids just want someone who's cool. One little boy at an autograph signing said, 'I don't care if he likes boys -- he's still my hero.'" Barrowman, 40, is openly gay (he and his partner, British architect Scott Gill, were joined in a civil commitment ceremony last year). He's outspoken about prejudice in the industry and ironically was passed over for the part of Will in Will & Grace because the producers felt he was "too straight." "I know a lot of gay leading men in Hollywood," he says. "I'm not one for outing people -- they might have personal issues they need to overcome -- but if they are not speaking up because they're afraid it's going to affect their careers, that pisses me off. Take the risk! I took that risk and the public rewarded me. I still play straight leading characters in theater, TV and film, so it doesn't matter." Born in Scotland, Barrowman moved to Illinois with his family when he was 8. He went back to the U.K. as a college student to study Shakespeare but soon found himself at an open-call audition. It led to a part in Anything Goes on London's West End, and he never looked back. He's a seasoned stage star who's appeared in everything from Phantom of the Opera to Sunset Boulevard. But it was his part in Doctor Who in 2005 that led to Torchwood and all that's followed. "I'd do Torchwood for the next five years if they asked," he says happily. "I wake up every morning, I shoot aliens, I save the world, and I get to be sexy and cheeky at the same time. A young boy is living his dream as a man."
Sci-fi saga "Torchwood" targets actual grown-ups
"Torchwood" is so unsettling and creepy that even sci-fi skeptics will fall under its spell.It doesn't hurt that the male lead, the mega-intense John Barrowman, is a dead-ringer for the young Tom Cruise. He even sounds like Cruise. This in itself is a form of science fiction come to life. Compelling, convoluted and camp all at once, "Torchwood" tells the tale of a British crimefighting team that works independently of all law enforcement and government oversight. They operate by their own rules, but not in a Dirty Harry way. It's far more sinister than that. They work for good under the guise of evil, privy as they are to Area 51-style alien info and absurdly advanced technology as they battle the monstrous flotsam and jetsam of both the extraterrestrial and human worlds here on Earth. The charismatic mystery dude who presides over this motley crew, Captain Jack Harkness (Barrowman), looks 30 years old despite having apparently been killed during World War II. He works in Episode 1 to control the damage when an overly curious policewoman, Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles), stumbles onto their futuristic underground lair after having witnessed the resurrection of a murder victim using a special reanimating glove. What she finds is a team of dedicated young oddballs whom nobody in the world seems to know exists: a charming hedonist of a medic (Burn Gorman), a beautiful tech geek (Naoko Mori), a brainy alien expert (Indira Varma) and a shifty receptionist (Gareth David-Lloyd). Hour one, written by creator/executive producer Russell T. Davies, smartly sets the table by giving us a taste of the savage monsters, sci-fi theatrics and all-around spooky vibe that define this "CSI" for sci-fi geeks. The second hour, from scribe Chris Chibnall, is even better, delving into the dark underbelly of the Torchwood gang and the freaked-out but cooperative Gwen as they track a homicidal sex-addicted alien. The leads demonstrate a winning chemistry, with director Brian Kelly keeping the blend of action and edgy dialogue interchanges seamless and riveting. Cast: Captain Jack Harkness: John Barrowman Gwen Cooper: Eve Myles Owen Harper: Burn Gorman Toshiko Sato: Naoko Mori Suzie Costello: Indira Varma Ianto Jones: Gareth David-Lloyd Rhys Jones: Kai Owen Creator: Russell T Davies; Executive producers: Russell T Davies, Julie Gardner; Producer: Richard Stokes; Writers: Russell T Davies, Chris Chibnall; Director: Brian Kelly; Director of photography: Mark Waters; Editor: William Webb; Music: Murray Gold; Casting: Andy Pryor.
Heather Locklear & Jack Wagner: Heating Up
Heather Locklear and Jack Wagner are teeing up a hot romance, PEOPLE reports in its new issue.The former Melrose Place costars cuddled in a golf cart and held hands at the Celebrity Classic golf tournament benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on April 24. "They were playful and very much together," says an onlooker. Their reps had no comment. The pair were first spotted getting cozy in March, but friends said at the time that they were not dating. "[They] have been friends since Melrose Place," a Wagner pal told PEOPLE. "There's definitely no change in their relationship." But a Locklear source now tells PEOPLE the actress, who last month finalized her divorce from Richie Sambora, is in "a really good place. It's great to see her with someone who appreciates her." Locklear, 45, and Wagner, 47, who plays a sea captain on The Bold and the Beautiful, have more than their Melrose memories in common: Both are single parents, she to daughter Ava, 9, and he to sons Peter, 16, and Harrison, 12, with ex-wife Kristina, whom he divorced in 2006.
Pilot News
Lourdes Benedicto ("The Nine") has been added to the cast of "Cashmere Mafia"
Heather Locklear & Jack Wagner: Melrose Match?
Former Melrose Place costars Heather Locklear and Jack Wagner have been spotted together multiple times – even holding hands – but pals say the two aren't starting a Hollywood romance."[They] have been friends since Melrose Place," a Wagner pal tells PEOPLE, referring to the '90s prime-time soap in which the pair played lovers who ended up marrying. "There's definitely no change in their relationship. They [just] went out with a bunch of her friends." The old friends have more in common than they used to, though. Locklear, 45, is seeking a divorce from Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora, with whom she has a 9-year-old daughter, Ava. Wagner, 47, is a single parent of two sons, Peter, 16, and Harrison, 12, having divorced his wife, Kristina, in 2006. After her breakup with Sambora last February, Locklear seemed to have found romance with David Spade, yet a source says, "David saw her through some really sad times, but they were never more than friends." Perhaps Wagner (who currently plays a sea captain on daytime's The Bold and the Beautiful) is following suit – at least when it comes to platonic PDA with Locklear. According to an onlooker who spotted the actors sharing some crispy-noodle prawns at Mr. Chow on March 1, "they were holding hands and really focused on each other." Those who know Heather say entwined fingers do not a relationship make. "She holds her friends' hands all the time," says a pal. "Men, women – it doesn't mean anything." But if their relationship does heat up, Wagner's already got the green light from Locklear's friend, who ticks off a list of the singer-actor's sexy traits. "He's super funny, charming, considerate and a little irreverent," she says. "I don't think anyone would be sad if [something more] happened."
We Hear...
THAT Calvin Klein Inc. is throwing a bash Thursday night in an abandoned warehouse in the Garment District to launch a new fragrance featuring hot model/actor Kevin Zegers.
Actress Victoria Principal divorced
Victoria Principal's 21-year marriage to her second husband is officially over. The "Dallas" star is single again after reaching a financial settlement with plastic surgeon Harry Glassman, according to court papers filed Wednesday in Superior Court.The two have property interests worth more than $50 million, according to the divorce judgment. Principal, 56, and Glassman were married in June 1985 and lived in Beverly Hills. She filed for divorce in May, citing irreconcilable differences. Principal and first husband, Christopher Skinner, divorced in 1980. The actress played Pamela Barnes Ewing, the stylish, reconciled wife of oilman Bobby Ewing, on the long-running TV drama "Dallas." She left the hit CBS series in 1987 after nine years with the show. Principal has written books on diet and exercise. In addition, she markets her own skin care and makeup lines.
Elton Upstaged
ELTON John, who went sober years ago, made a rare club appearance the other night at The Lounge in Hollywood to help his husband, David Furnish, celebrate his 44th birthday. Drawing the most attention, however, was Kevin ("Transamerica") Zegers, the handsome star of "It's a Girl Boy Thing," with Samaire Armstrong. The romantic screen comedy is being produced by John and Furnish. Zegers made a big impression on N.Y. politico Allen Roskoff. Also seen was Shawn Ashmore from the "X-Men" movies.
'Lost' Lass Loves Ladies in 'Book Club'
Seven actors have joined the cast of Robin Swicord's "The Jane Austen Book Club," including a slew of television favorites.Late lamented "Lost" co-star Maggie Grace will appear in the adaptation of Karen Joy Fowler's novel, along with Maria Bello ("Flicka"), Emily Blunt ("The Devil Wears Prada"), Hugh Dancy ("Basic Instinct 2"), Kevin Zegers ("Zoom") and Emmy winners Amy Brenneman ("Judging Amy") and Jimmy Smits ("The West Wing"). The film involves a group of women (and one man) who get together to read Jane Austen novels and talk about their loves. According to the long cast list in The Hollywood Reporter, Brenneman will play Sylvia, whose husband (Smits) leaves her after 32 years of marriage. If the industry trade paper is correct, they must have married when they were 10. Grace plays Sylvia's lesbian daughter, who also must have been born when Sylvia was 10. Stupid age-based casting aside, Bello will play Sylvia's unmarried best friend Jocelyn. Blunt plays Prudie, a married teacher who has fantasies of other men. Throw in Zegers as an over-sexed teen and Dancy as Griff, a computer whiz, and you have a movie. Sony Pictures Classics is expected to distribute. This will be the feature directing debut for Swicord, whose writing credits include adaptations of "Practical Magic," "Little Women" and "Memoirs of a Geisha."
Bank-hostage drama plays out in 'The Nine'
A mysterious tragedy. Strangers who become inextricably linked. Flashbacks that slowly reveal missing puzzle pieces.No, it's not Lost, but an equally ambitious drama that will follow it starting Wednesday on ABC (10 ET/PT). The Nine explores a 52-hour hostage ordeal in a botched bank robbery and, mostly, how it transforms those who live through it. "The brilliant thing about this concept is that most human beings have some kind of vision of how they see their lives going, but inevitably something happens to throw them off course," says Tim Daly, who plays a troubled cop in the large ensemble. "What happens when an event comes along you didn't see coming and completely redefines the life you've been living?" says Scott Wolf, who plays a hotshot surgeon. "The real fun of a show like this," he says, is to let viewers ask themselves, "Who would I be in there?" Each episode shows glimpses of what happened in the bank but dwells on the aftermath for the survivors. "They're all different: racially, financially, spiritually," says Kim Raver, who plays a district attorney. "It's a great setup for drama because there is conflict in their views." Writer K.J. Steinberg (Judging Amy) came up with the concept for a show about strangers bonded by a trauma and developed the series with older brother Hank (creator of CBS' Without a Trace). The hostage crisis, she says, allows the series to "explore a knee-jerk reaction to a brush with mortality: What would you do if you had a gun put to your head?" She acknowledges a debt to Lost in its time-shifting detail but says The Nine is far less "fantastical" than its lead-in. "This could happen to you, and it could happen tomorrow." And as Lost creators learned, parceling out information is a tightrope walk: "Titillating an audience is key; frustrating an audience is the downfall." The structural hook of the series is "the 'what happened in there?,' " Hank Steinberg says. "But ultimately, 90% of the show is about rebirth and second chances and relationships," including two key love triangles. Yet in reflecting on the robbery, "there's a tiny piece of culpability that everyone shares." Wednesday's pilot episode includes the beginning and the end of the standoff, with clues about what happened in between. Future bank flashbacks range from five minutes to, in one case, nearly an entire episode. By the end of this season, producers expect those 52 hours will be revealed. But quickly, "the present becomes more complicated than the past," says executive producer Alex Graves (The West Wing), providing fodder for future seasons.
Aaron Spelling hailed at Emmys
Producer Aaron Spelling wasn't famous for creating the kind of TV programs that critics and awards shows lavished with praise, but that's just what the late mogul got on Sunday's Emmycast.In a special tribute, stars of "Dynasty" and "Charlie's Angels" recalled the mastermind of those and other hit shows as a star-maker with a sense for what audiences wanted. "Aaron made TV that simply tasted good," said Stephen Collins, who stars on the critically praised Spelling show "7th Heaven." "He had his share of serious projects, but no one did guilty pleasure better than Aaron." Spelling died in June at 83 after suffering a stroke. Other shows he created include "Fantasy Island," "Love Boat," "The Mod Squad," "Starsky and Hutch," "Melrose Place" and "Beverly Hills 90210." Spelling was nominated five times for best drama series ("Dynasty," "Mod Squad" and, three times, "Family"), but never won. He did capture two Emmys — for the TV movies "And The Band Played On" and "Day One." On Sunday, Spelling was honored by two trios of alumnae — including Joan Collins, who starred in "Dynasty" and Heather Locklear, who starred in "Melrose Place." "Aaron understood what a star is," Joan Collins said. "He helped to create many stars and, in my case, he reinvented one." After a short series of clips — including several that featured him as an actor — the original "Charlie's Angels" made a rare joint appearance on stage. "I can still smell the pipe and the cologne he wore every day," Kate Jackson said. "I can feel his arm around my shoulder and the thrill I first felt when he looked at me and said `Baby, you have stardust in your eyes.'" Jackson's remembrances brought tears to the eyes of Farrah Fawcett and audience members, including Spelling's widow, Candy. "Miracles do happen," said Jaclyn Smith, the third member of the hit 1970s show. "I'm sure that he is looking down and smiling on us right now knowing that he brought us together again. Aaron loved actors, and we loved him right back." Not everything Spelling was happy Sunday night. His daughter, Tori, did not sit with her mother, Candy. The two are reportedly feuding over Spelling's will.
Emmys Set Spelling Tribute
Sunday's Emmy Awards will pay tribute to legendary TV producer Aaron Spelling, enlisting the stars of some of his many shows to honor him."Dynasty" star Joan Collins, "Melrose Place's" Heather Locklear and Stephen Collins of "7th Heaven" -- the only Spelling-produced show still on the air -- will help honor the long and prolific career of Spelling, who died in June at the age of 83. The Emmy telecast has also added a new round of presenters, among them nominees Annette Bening ("Mrs. Harris"), Craig Ferguson ("The Late Late Show") and "Will & Grace" stars Megan Mullally and Sean Hayes. "Deal or No Deal" host Howie Mandel, Tom Selleck, Virginia Madsen and "Grey's Anatomy" star Katherine Heigl will also hand out awards. Spelling produced dozens of series and made-for-TV movies in his career, which began with a producing job on "Zane Grey Theater" in the 1950s. The bulk of those shows landed at ABC, which in the late '70s was sometimes referred to as "Aaron's Broadcasting Company." With good reason: In the fall of 1978, for instance, he had six shows on the network. Although a number of Spelling shows, which also include "The Mod Squad," "Hart to Hart," "The Love Boat" and "Beverly Hills, 90210," were enormously popular, they weren't the stuff of awards all that often. Spelling won two Emmys in his career, for the 1989 telefilm "Day One," about the creation of the atomic bomb, and for 1993's "And the Band Played On," about the early days of the AIDS epidemic. The 58th Annual Primetime Emmys air at 8 p.m. ET Sunday on NBC.
Three set for "Moon" landing at Lifetime
Claire Forlani, Jacqueline Bisset and Oliver Hudson have been tapped to star in the Lifetime original movie "Carolina Moon," based on Nora Roberts' best-selling novel."Moon" is one of four adaptations of books by Roberts that Lifetime plans to run back-to-back on Monday nights in February. The other three -- "Blue Smoke," "Angels Fall" and "Montana Sky" -- are in preproduction. The film centers on Tory Bodeen (Forlani), a young woman with the gift of visions who returns to her small Southern hometown to face memories of her childhood friend Hope's death. While trying to rebuild her life, Tory discovers links among a series of murders, including that of her friend. Bisset plays Hope's mother, and Hudson portrays Hope's older brother, Cade, with whom Tory becomes romantically involved. Josie Davis, who had a role on Fox's "Beverly Hills, 90210," has been cast as Hope's twin sister, Faith. Stephen Tolkin ("Fidel") wrote the teleplay for "Moon" and will direct. British-born Forlani is best known for her starring role in the feature "Meet Joe Black." She is doing a multi-episode arc on CBS' "CSI: NY" this coming season, playing a love interest to star Gary Sinise. Hudson, who most recently appeared in the NBC miniseries "10.5: Apocalypse," just completed production on the horror film "Black Christmas," starring Michelle Trachtenberg, and the independent horror film "The Breed," executive produced by Wes Craven. Bisset's recent credits include the indies "The Physical Education of Girls," "Sleepy Time Gal" and "Latter Days."
Spelling Family Values
"This is not Dynasty." So said Aaron Spelling scion Randy, dismissing speculation that the TV titan's family was torn by Carrington-sized grievances even as it grieved. Patriarch Aaron Spelling, the prodigious producer of hits such as Charlie's Angels, Beverly Hills 90210, 7th Heaven, and the backbiting family soap opera that was Dynasty, died Friday at the age of 83. A private family service was held Sunday. "This is a real family [that] loves each other," Randy Spelling said through longtime Aaron Spelling publicist Kevin Sasaki, per the Los Angeles Times. Among those present and accounted for at the service: Tori Spelling and her new husband, actor Dean McDermott. Early reports, based on information from Spelling's longtime publicist, said wife Candy and son Randy, but not daughter Tori, were at Spelling's bedside when the show-biz legend died. The news seemed to confirm reports of a family feud. But, as it turned out, Randy Spelling was not at his father's side, either. (The son was en route, Spelling's publicist later clarified.) In the end, Tori Spelling herself all but confirmed the family-feud angle, albeit with a heartfelt spin. In a statement over the weekend, Tori Spelling said she and her famed father and former 90210 employer had recently reconciled. "I am honored to be Aaron Spelling's daughter," the actress said. "He had a heart that was as big as his talent." While Tori Spelling didn't elaborate on what had kept her and her father apart, E! Online columnist Ted Casablanca reported in March that Tori and her mother had a falling out over Tori's ill-fated, but lavish, first wedding ceremony. Tori's VH1 comedy series, so noTORIous, which parodied her mother, apparently didn't help family matters, either. Tori Spelling, 33, wed McDermott, 39, May 7 in Fiji. The ceremony was not attended by the bride's parents, or anyone else--save for the participants. The Fiji ceremony was a far cry from the 400-guest affair Aaron Spelling hosted at his Los Angeles estate for Tori's 2004 wedding to Charlie Shanian. Less than a year later, the marriage was over, and bad blood reportedly was boiling. But in Spelling's final days, the producer reportedly met his new son-in-law. Tori Spelling said she was grateful that she'd made peace with her father. "It is a true blessing to have had a parent that loved me unconditionally, and was always there for me," Tori Spelling said. Those still looking for rifts, though, need not look further than the family statements. There was the one from Tori. And then there was the one from Tori's mother and brother. In their statement, Candy and Randy Spelling said they were touched by well-wishers: "Our family is truly appreciative of everyone's love and support." Among the non-Spellings paying tribute to the producer was Alyssa Milano, of Spelling's just-ended Charmed. Like Spelling's more charitable critics, Milano praised the producer for "always ha[ving] his finger on the pulse of pop culture." "He was one of the most loyal men in this business," Milano said in a statement, "and believed in me at a time in my career when no one else would." Heather Locklear, a Spelling favorite who worked for him on Dynasty, T.J. Hooker and Melrose Place, said she was "so sad" to hear of his passing. "He called me his 'lucky penny,'" Locklear said in a statement, "but I am the lucky one because he graced me with his encouragement and talent." Original Charlie's Angels star Jaclyn Smith called her onetime boss a "dear friend and a truly genuine human being." Stephen Collins, of Spelling's still-running 7th Heaven, remembered the legend as a man. In a statement, Collins said Spelling was "was quiet, soft-spoken, gentlemanly, shy, and loved actors, having started as one himself." A memorial service for Spelling's Hollywood colleagues will be held in the coming weeks, the family said. Also on the horizon, as reportedly promised by the ex-wife of Dean McDermott, a new book to be titled, My Husband Left Me for Tori Spelling. Maybe things are just a little bit like Dynasty...
TV producer Aaron Spelling buried in L.A.
A private burial service was held for Aaron Spelling, the television producer of such shows as Dynasty,Love Boat and Beverly Hills 90210 who died last week at 83. Sunday's family-only graveside service at Hillside Memorial Park was attended by widow Candy, son Randy, daughter Tori and brother Danny, publicist Kevin Sasaki said Monday. No other details were released. Sasaki said an entertainment industry memorial service was planned in about a month. Spelling suffered a stroke on June 18 and died at his Los Angeles mansion Friday. "Our extreme sadness and grief is comforted by the overwhelming number of heartfelt calls we have received," Candy and Randy Spelling said in a statement released earlier by Sasaki. "We are truly grateful for the outpouring of love and sympathy expressed by so many friends and colleagues who knew Aaron. Our family is truly appreciative of everyone's love and support." One of the most prolific TV producers in history, Spelling generated numerous hits, including Fantasy Island,Burke's Law,Starsky and Hutch,T.J. Hooker,Matt Houston,Hart to Hart and Hotel. More recently he produced 7th Heaven and Summerland. "He was undoubtedly the greatest producer of popular television during the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s," Joan Collins, who starred in the producer's hit Dynasty, said Monday. "I shall always be grateful to him for insisting I play the role of Alexis Carrington on Dynasty. " Heather Locklear, star of Spelling's Melrose Place, said Monday she was sad to her of Spelling's death, adding: "He called me his lucky penny (because Spelling shows she was in were hits) but I am the lucky one because he graced me with his encouragement and talent."
Aaron Spelling, hitmaker extraordinaire
He was TV's longest-running hitmaker; in fact, Guinness certified him as the world's most prolific TV producer, with more than 3,800 hours of programming since 1956 to his credit.Aaron Spelling's legacy lives on, with one series (7th Heaven) returning next season on the new CW network and many others in perpetual reruns. The small-screen impresario, 83, died Friday at his mansion in Los Angeles. He had had a stroke June 18. In an interview at the 2005 TV Land Awards, where he was honored for his career, Spelling joked about his longevity in a business known to think people half his age are too old to connect with the coveted younger audience. "I have been very, very lucky, because my first show was The Mod Squad, I think 18,000 years ago," he said. "I think it's silly to say somebody is too old or too young for this or that." His career actually started earlier, as an actor of little note in the 1950s. A friend, actor Dick Powell, hired him to produce at Four Star Productions, where Spelling had his first hit, the detective series Burke's Law, in 1963. From Charlie's Angels to Love Boat to Melrose Place and beyond, Spelling scored big with the masses over five decades. How will he be remembered? USA TODAY offers insight into a storied career. The Mod Squad (1968-73) Spelling was among the first producers to cast black actors in lead roles: Clarence Williams III co-starred with Michael Cole and Peggy Lipton in this series about three rebellious young undercover agents in hippie threads. "You have to take into consideration, the minute you had a black and a white — and throw a blond girl in between — you were asking for problems," Cole said at the TV Land Awards, referring to the era. The controversial series reflected the turbulent times and tackled issues such as child abuse, drugs and Vietnam. Later, Spelling would cast black actors Ted Lange as a lovable bartender on The Love Boat, Nathan Cook on Hotel and friend Diahann Carroll on Dynasty. Charlie's Angels (1976-81) Kate Jackson, who starred in the sexy detective series with Farrah Fawcett and Jaclyn Smith, has said she persuaded Aaron Spelling to change the title from "Alley Cats" to Charlie's Angels. But it was Spelling who persuaded his close pal John Forsythe to come to a recording studio late one night in 1976 to supply the voice of the never-seen Charlie, as a last-minute replacement for an intoxicated Gig Young. "He certainly understands talent. He finds the right people for the right part," Smith, the only actress to stay with the show for its entire run, said at the TV Land Awards. When breakout star (and poster girl extraordinaire) Fawcett broke her contract by quitting after one season, Spelling recruited his legal team to make her return for six guest appearances. The Love Boat (1977-86) In this anthology of romantic oceanic fantasy, Spelling was able to bring many of his old Hollywood friends out of retirement as guest stars, treating them to free trips to exotic ports for The Love Boat's two-hour specials. Among those who signed on for deluxe-suite stays: Lana Turner, Ethel Merman, Vincent Price and omnipresent cuchi-cuchi girl Charo. He worked similar magic in other settings with Fantasy Island (1978-84) and Hotel (1983-88), which drew visits from Bette Davis and Elizabeth Taylor. Spelling also was a smart businessman who didn't hesitate to replace a troublesome actor, releasing Boat's Lauren Tewes when she became involved with drugs and exiling Herve Villechaize (Hey bozz!! De plane!!) from Island when the diminutive star asked for a pay hike on scale with Ricardo Montalban. Dynasty (1981-89) As he did with black actors, Spelling broke ground by incorporating gay leading characters into many of his series, including this saga about a wealthy Denver clan, inspired by Spelling's real-life close friends Marvin and Barbara Davis, who similarly made their fortune in oil. Dynasty featured a gay son, Steven Carrington (first Al Corley, then Jack Coleman). In the '90s, Spelling cast Desperate Housewives' Doug Savant on Melrose Place as gay Matt. And Spelling took great satisfaction when his 1993 HBO AIDS telefilm, And the Band Played On, won an Emmy. Many of Spelling's closest friends were gay, including Rock Hudson, who created a stir when he kissed Linda Evans on Dynasty in 1985 shortly before his death from AIDS. Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-2000) Spelling doted on daughter Tori (named after close friend Victoria Principal) and routinely cast her in small roles. But in 1990, he made Tori a star by casting her as virgin Donna Martin in this soap about rich high school kids. This year, Tori made fun of her 90210 casting as well as her over-the-top family in her VH-1 series So Notorious. Her parents were not pleased with the show, nor with her recent marriage. Until shortly before his death, Spelling had not spoken with Tori for months. But in a statement Saturday, Tori said, "I am grateful that I recently had the opportunity to reconcile with my father, and most grateful we had the chance to tell each other we loved one another before he passed away. He was a great man and even better father." In March, Tori told USA TODAY her dream was to make her father a grandpa. Melrose Place (1992-99) Spelling was known for loving his beautiful actors, and Heather Locklear was among his favorites. He cast her as a cop (T.J. Hooker's Stacy Sheridan), a tramp (Dynasty's Sammy Jo) and Melrose's landlady-turned-corporate-hellraiser Amanda Woodward. Her 1993 addition to the cast transformed the low-rated show from a plotless, pointless drama to an outrageous soap, saving it from certain cancellation. Budget-conscious until the end, Spelling nixed show writers' plans to bring back all the dead vixens (Marcia Cross, Laura Leighton, Kristin Davis) for a series-finale fantasy sequence when the cost of getting them all to return proved too high. 7th Heaven (1996-present) Spelling took much criticism for over-the-top soaps and jiggle fare, telling the Associated Press in 1986, "The knocks by the critics bother you, but you have a choice of proving yourself to 300 critics or 30 million fans." But as in Mod Squad and Spelling's critically acclaimed 1976-80 drama, Family, 7th Heaven — about a minister (Stephen Collins) and his brood — tackled heavy issues and won praise. Among the topics explored were drugs and teenagers cutting themselves. One of Spelling's last great joys was Heaven eclipsing The Waltons and Little House on the Prairie as TV's longest-running family drama. "Aaron was nothing like what most people expected. He was quiet, soft-spoken, gentlemanly, shy, and loved actors, " Collins said Saturday in a statement.
Spelling left indelible stamp on TV
Prime time television impresario Aaron Spelling produced a timeline of hits that captivated audiences spanning the "Mod Squad" counterculture to the Gen-X fans of "Beverly Hills 90210."Though he left an indelible stamp on American pop culture, he never won the critical acclaim he sought. Spelling died Friday at his Los Angeles mansion after suffering a stroke on June 18, according to publicist. He was 83. "The knocks by the critics bother you," the man behind "Charlie's Angels," "Melrose Place" and "Dynasty" told The Associated Press in a 1986 interview. "But you have a choice of proving yourself to 300 critics or 30 million fans. ... I think you're also categorized by the critics. If you do something good they almost don't want to like it." One of the most prolific TV producers in history, Spelling generated numerous hits, including "Love Boat," "Fantasy Island," "Burke's Law," "Starsky and Hutch," "T.J. Hooker," "Matt Houston," "Hart to Hart" and "Hotel." Most recently he produced "7th Heaven" and "Summerland." "Aaron was nothing like what most people expected. He was quiet, soft-spoken, gentlemanly, shy, and loved actors, having started as one himself," Stephen Collins, star of "7th Heaven" said in a statement. He also produced more than 140 television movies. Among the most notable: "Death Sentence" (1974), "The Boy in the Plastic Bubble" (1976) and "The Best Little Girl in the World" (1981). During the 1970s and 1980s, Spelling provided series and movies exclusively for ABC and is credited for the network's rise to major status. Jokesters referred to it as "The Aaron Broadcasting Company." "Aaron's contributions in television are unequaled. To me, he was a dear friend and a truly genuine human being," Jaclyn Smith, the only original "Charlie's Angels" actress who stayed with the show for its entire run, said in a statement Friday. Spelling liked to cite some of his more creditable achievements, like "Family" (1976-80), a drama about a middle-class family, and "The Best Little Girl in the World." Among his prestige films for TV: "Day One" (1989), about the making of the atomic bomb; "And the Band Played On" (1992), based on Randy Shilts' book about the AIDS crisis. Spelling had arrived in Hollywood virtually penniless in the early 1950s. By the 1980s, Forbes magazine estimated his wealth at $300 million. He gave his second wife, Candy, a 40-carat diamond ring. The Spellings' most publicized extravagance was their 56,500-square-foot French chateau in Holmby Hills. The couple bought the former Bing Crosby estate for $10 million and leveled it and two other houses to the ground. Construction was estimated at $12 million. Born on April 22, 1923, Spelling grew up in a small house in Dallas "on the wrong side of the tracks," he wrote in his 1996 autobiography. He was the fourth son of immigrant Jews, his father from Poland, mother from Russia. At 8, he suffered what he termed a nervous breakdown and spent a year in bed. He later considered that period the birth of his creative urge. Spelling enlisted in the Army Air Corps after graduating from high school in 1942. After combat and organizing entertainment in Europe during the war, he enrolled at Southern Methodist University, where he wrote and directed plays. He continued working in local theatrics after graduating. Finding no work in New York, Spelling moved to Los Angeles, where he staged plays and acted in more than 40 TV shows and 12 movies. His skinny frame suited him for the role of a beggar in the MGM musical "Kismet." He worked for three weeks, repeating his one line: "Alms for the love of Allah." That experience resulted in two decisions: he abandoned acting for the typewriter; he married a young actress he had been courting, Carolyn Jones, who played Morticia in "The Addams Family" series. They divorced after 13 years, and she died of cancer in 1983. Spelling's friendship with such actor-producers as Dick Powell, Jack Webb and Alan Ladd led to his rapid rise as a prolific writer and later producer of TV series. In 1960, Powell, head of Four Star Productions, hired him to produce shows. "Burke's Law" became the first hit series Spelling created. After Powell's death, Spelling teamed with Danny Thomas, scoring a huge success with "The Mod Squad." In 1969, Spelling began an exclusive contract with ABC. Former ABC programming chief Leonard Goldberg joined him as partner in 1972. After ABC canceled "Dynasty" in 1989 and his contract with the network ended, Spelling found himself without a show on the air for the first time since 1960. "I was so depressed, I would have quit, but I like TV too much," Spelling wrote in his memoir. After a year's respite, he returned with "Beverly Hills 90210," which helped launch the fledgling Fox Network. "Melrose Place" gave Fox another hit. Throughout his career, Spelling maintained the same image: the skinny frame, slightly hawkish face. He usually posed with a pipe in his mouth, a custom he adopted early after seeing stars with pipes in fan magazine photos. Spelling and his second wife, Candy, had two children, Tori, who became a star on the two Fox serials, and Randy, who appeared in the short-lived "Malibu Shores." Tori Spelling had not been in touch with her family for the past nine to ten months, according to her father's publicist, Kevin Sasaki, though he did not know the reason. "I am grateful that I recently had the opportunity to reconcile with my father, and most grateful we had the chance to tell each other we loved one another before he passed away," she said in a statement on Saturday. "He was a great man and even better father."
Producer Aaron Spelling: Not just a master of 'jiggle,' he was a master of TV
If viewers still identify Aaron Spelling with starlets whose brassieres didn't fully rein them in, that might say as much about the viewers as it does about him.The fact is, once upon a time the audience was eager to watch those "three little girls who went to the police academy" fight crime with a jiggle and a wink. In 1976, Charlie's Angels became an instant hit. All Spelling had to do was come up with it. Same as he did with dozens upon dozens of other TV projects of a dizzying variety spanning a half-century. Consider a recent pair of long-running series he produced for The WB: a show about witches (Charmed) and a show about a Protestant priest (7th Heaven). That enough variety for you? Sure, Spelling can be simply defined. But not just as the architect of "jiggle TV," or as a partner with Mike Nichols on the much-honored drama Family (1976-80), or as the real captain of The Love Boat (1977-86), or as the innovator who made groundbreaking TV films about AIDS, anorexia and nuclear war, or as the doting dad who sprang Tori Spelling on the world as one among a crop of teen idols on Beverly Hills 90210 (1990-2000). Simply defined, he was the embodiment of nothing less than television's vast, crowd-pleasing capabilities. And his passing Friday at 83 is the latest suggestion that TV, at least as we know it, is passing, too. Artistry on TV is always in limited supply, and no one ever said Spelling displayed more than his share. But even rarer is the visionary who can satisfy the audience's tastes - the impresario who knows what viewers want, sometimes even before they do, and then gives it to them. On this, Spelling's track record certifies the exacting calibration of his gut. Stephen Collins, who plays the Rev. Eric Camden on 7th Heaven, describes Spelling as a hard-working, shy man endowed with extraordinary creative instincts. "He didn't worry about what other people thought," Collins said in an interview Saturday. "If he had a strong gut feeling, he would follow it." In a business at the mercy of viewer fickleness and disposable crazes, Spelling seemed always ready for the next thing - ready to recognize it and usher it in, renewing himself in the process. Example: With ABC's cancellation of Dynasty in 1989 after eight seasons, Spelling - for the first time since 1960 - had no series on the air. He was 66. He was obviously finished. But then, a generation after having saved the moribund ABC with a string of hits including Charlie's Angels, Spelling handed the struggling, young Fox network Beverly Hills 90210 and Melrose Place, thus establishing the next act in his storied career. What explains his skill, enormous output and longevity? Was it thanks to the common touch he brought with him to Hollywood from his native Texas as (in his self-appraisal) a poor Jewish boy from the wrong side of the tracks? Was it because he helped write the rules of TV entertainment in the first place? Whatever the case, he was indisputably a master of television, even TV as it is now, rocked by change and, some insist, living on borrowed time. And if he felt perplexed by the current turmoil - the splintering of audiences across countless channels; on-demand and multi-platform breakthroughs that seem to challenge all conventional TV wisdom - Spelling had too sure a foothold in TV's grand traditions to be jeopardized. But the audience he leaves behind might reasonably wonder: Now what? Who in the industry now can boast of a comparable crowd-pleasing touch? And if TV evolves into a wellspring of sound-motion bubbling from iPods and cell phones as well as PCs and wall-size plasma screens, what then? What impresario could possibly surface, like Spelling did a half-century ago, to master that new media?
TV producer Aaron Spelling dies at 83
Aaron Spelling, a onetime movie bit player who created a massive number of hit series, from the vintage "Charlie's Angels" and "Dynasty" to "Beverly Hills 90210" and "Melrose Place," died Friday, his publicist said. He was 83.Spelling died at his home in Los Angeles after suffering a stroke on June 18, according to publicist Kevin Sasaki. Spelling's other hit series included "Love Boat," "Fantasy Island," "Burke's Law," "The Mod Squad," "Starsky and Hutch," "T.J. Hooker," "Matt Houston," "Hart to Hart" and "Hotel." He kept his hand in 21st-century TV with series including "7th Heaven" and "Summerland." He also produced more than 140 television movies. Among the most notable: "Death Sentence" (1974), Nick Nolte's first starring role; "The Boy in the Plastic Bubble" (1976), John Travolta's first dramatic role; and "The Best Little Girl in the World" (1981), which starred Jennifer Jason Leigh. During the 1970s and 1980s, Spelling provided series and movies exclusively for ABC and is credited for the network's rise to major status. Jokesters referred to it as "The Aaron Broadcasting Company." Success was not without its thorns. TV critics denounced Spelling for fostering fluff and nighttime soap operas. He called his shows "mind candy"; critics referred to them as "mindless candy." "The knocks by the critics bother you," he admitted in a 1986 interview with The Associated Press. "But you have a choice of proving yourself to 300 critics or 30 million fans. You have to make a choice. I think you're also categorized by the critics. If you do something good they almost don't want to like it." He liked to cite some of his more creditable achievements, like "Family" (1976-80), a drama about a middle-class family, and "The Best Little Girl in the World." Among his prestige films for TV: "Day One" (1988), about an atomic blast in middle America; "And the Band Played On" (1992), based on Randy Shilts' book about the AIDS crisis. Spelling had arrived in Hollywood virtually penniless in the early 1950s. By the 1980s, Forbes magazine estimated his wealth at $300 million. He enjoyed his status, working in a Hollywood office larger than those of golden-era moguls ("I'm slightly claustrophpobic," he explained.) He gifted his second wife, Candy, with a 40-carat diamond ring. The Spellings' most publicized extravagance was their 56,500-square-foot French chateau in Holmby Hills. The couple bought the former Bing Crosby estate for $10 million. It was leveled to the ground, along with two other houses. Construction cost was estimated at $12 million. The two-story house reached a height of 51 feet. Among the features: an entire floor for closets, a one-lane bowling alley, plus the usual elements for the Hollywood rich — pool, tennis court, gym, screening room. Built on rollers, it easily survived the 1994 Northridge earthquake. The mansion dwarfed nearby estates, and the neighbors were furious. One woman won an injunction during construction, calling the place "Look-at-me-I'm-rich architecture." Spelling grew up in a small frame house on Browder Street in Dallas "on the wrong side of the tracks," he wrote in his 1996 autobiography. He was the fourth son of immigrant Jews, his father from Poland, mother from Russia. The father's name, Spurling, was simplified to Spelling by an Ellis Island official. Spelling enlisted in the Army Air Corps after graduating from high school in 1942. "I grew up thinking 'Jew boy' was one word," the producer wrote in his memoir, "Aaron Spelling: A Prime-Time Life." He was considered strange by his Dallas schoolmates because his parents spoke Yiddish. He was subjected to anti-Semitic taunts and beatings on his way home from school. At 8, the boy suffered what he termed a nervous breakdown, and he spent a year in bed. He later considered that period the birth of his creative urge. He fell in love with great storytellers, especially O. Henry. Of his early TV series he said, "They are all O. Henry short stories." "I still have nightmares about being in a $6,000 house in Dallas, Texas," he remarked in a 1996 AP interview. "Wall-to-wall people, one bathroom. I was the one to go to the local bakery a block away on Saturday to get the day-old stuff." After combat and organizing entertainment in Europe during the war, Spelling returned to Texas and enrolled at Southern Methodist University, where he wrote and directed plays. He continued working in local theatrics after graduating. Finding no work in New York, Spelling moved to Los Angeles, where he staged plays and acted in more than 40 TV shows and 12 movies. His skinny frame suited him for the role of a ragged beggar in the MGM musical "Kismet." He worked for three weeks, repeating his one line: "Alms for the love of Allah." The "Kismet" experience resulted in two decisions: he abandoned acting for the typewriter; he married a young actress he had been courting, Carolyn Jones. She became well-known, especially as Morticia in "The Addams Family" series. They divorced after 13 years, and she died of cancer in 1983. Spelling's friendship with such actor-producers as Dick Powell, Jack Webb and Alan Ladd led to his rapid rise as a prolific writer and later producer of TV series. In 1960, Powell, head of Four Star Productions, hired him to produce shows for Powell himself, his wife June Allyson and Lloyd Bridges. "Burke's Law," with Gene Barry as a millionaire detective, became the first hit series Spelling created. After Powell's death, Spelling teamed with Danny Thomas in a production company, scoring a huge success with "The Mod Squad," about a trio of youthful undercover cops. In 1969, Spelling began an exclusive contract with ABC, helping the network to rise from a low third place to the top of the network ratings. Former ABC programming chief Leonard Goldberg joined him as partner in 1972. After ABC cancelled "Dynasty" in 1989 and his contract with the network had ended, Spelling found himself without a show on the air for the first time since 1960. "I was so depressed, I would have quit, but I like TV too much," Spelling wrote in his memoir. Besides, his company had started issuing stock in 1986, and he had an obligation to his investors. After a year's respite, he returned with "Beverly Hills 90210," which helped launch the fledgling Fox Network into the bigtime. "Melrose Place" gave Fox another hit. Throughout his career, Spelling maintained the same image: the skinny frame, slightly hawkish face. He usually posed with a pipe in his mouth, a custom he adopted early after seeing stars with pipes in fan magazine photos. Spelling and his second wife, Candy, had two children, Tori (for Victoria), who became a star on the two Fox serials ("Now I'm known as Tori Spelling's father," he said in mock lament), and Randy, who appeared in the short-lived "Malibu Shores." Spelling set a record of producing more than 3,000 TV shows. Besides the TV movies, he produced 10 theatrical films including "California Split," "Mr. Mom." "'night, Mother," "Loose Cannons" and "Soapdish."
Television producer Aaron Spelling resting at home after stroke
Television producer Aaron Spelling suffered a stroke over the weekend at his Holmby Hills estate and he's being treated at home, his publicist said Wednesday."He had a stroke Sunday at home," spokesman Kevin Sasaki said, adding doctors were treating the 83-year-old producer at his mansion The Manor. The producer of such TV shows as Beverly Hills 90210, Charlie's Angels, Dynasty, Love Boat, Melrose Place and Fantasy Island is conscious and resting comfortably, Sasaki said. Spelling's wife Candy has been at his side. The seriousness of the stroke was unclear. Sasaki said he wasn't aware of any paralysis. "I don't know the extent of it," Sasaki said. "But if it had been some incredible degree he would have been taken to the hospital." Spelling's other hit series included Burke's Law, The Mod Squad, Starsky and Hutch, T.J. Hooker, Matt Houston, Hart to Hart and Hotel. He also produced more than 140 television movies, including Death Sentence (1974), Nick Nolte's first starring role, and The Boy in the Plastic Bubble (1976), John Travolta's first dramatic role. Spelling and his second wife, Candy, have two children, actress Tori Spelling and actor Randy, who appeared in the short-lived Malibu Shores.
TV Critics Like 'Grey's'
The Television Critics Association announced the nominees for its 2006 awards. The TCA Awards will be handed out July 23.CAREER ACHIEVEMENT Carol Burnett Mary Tyler Moore Bill Moyers Aaron Spelling Oprah Winfrey
Casper Van Dien Has an Indiana Jones
On Saturday at 8 pm/ET, Hallmark Channel sends onetime Starship Trooper Casper Van Dien to contend with The Curse of King Tut's Tomb, as his maverick archeaologist races a ruthless rival (The Mummy's Jonathan Hyde) to find the boy king's untold riches. Sound a bit familiar? TVGuide.com spoke with Van Dien about his bid to prove he's Harrison Ford-tough, his famous lineage and the secrets to a successful royal romance.TVGuide.com: So you're doing a little "Indiana Jones" thing here.... Casper Van Dien: Yeah, it was fun to pay homage to something I'm a fan of, and also to work with a filmmaker I really like a lot. Russell Mulcahy, who did Highlander, The Shadow and Swimming Upstream, is an incredible director. I felt fortunate to be working with him. TVGuide.com: Plus you have Malcolm McDowell, who's always entertaining to watch, playing one of the baddies. Van Dien: It was a thrill just to meet him. Jonathan Hyde was wonderful work with, too, as was Leonor Varela [as Van Dien's love interest]. Steve Waddington played one of my friends and it only helped that we already had a relationship working together [on Tarzan and Sleepy Hollow]. It was all a blast because everybody was so much fun to work with. There we were shooting a film in India paying homage to Indiana Jones and The Mummy, while having fun with King Tut, which itself is amazing subject matter. TVGuide.com: I was going to say, you and I are about the same age, so you must remember the late-70s King Tut mania. Van Dien: Yeah, I grew up in Jersey, so I went to the Metropolitan [Museum] when [the Tutankhamen exhibit was on display]. Everybody remembers that, so there's not much research you have to do. But our film also has some neat little twists at the end. TVGuide.com: I'm about halfway through now. I take it things get much worse for your character before they get better? Van Dien: Yeah, some bad stuff happens! There is this water torture scene I did with Jonathan Hyde, who did not want to keep me underwater for too long because he was afraid I would drown. But that was one of the most fun scenes for me to shoot. I was a lifeguard in high school and college, so it was fun for me to hold my breath and all. TVGuide.com: It's nice to hear you shot this in India and not, say, Vancouver. Van Dien: No, we shot it all in India. The desert was 122 degrees, they have big bright lights on you, and one time we were shooting in this white marble quarry, with no clouds.... [Laughs] TVGuide.com: What did you have on, like SPF 400? Van Dien: We were wearing sun protection and one time we even had umbrellas over us to block the sun, but I realized we were still getting burnt! The umbrellas were doing nothing! TVGuide.com: Still, I imagine The Curse of King Tut's Tomb must rank high on your "fun shoots" list with Starship Troopers and Sleepy Hollow? Van Dien: Sleepy Hollow... just the fact that I was working on a Tim Burton film with Johnny Depp, that, for me, was so exciting. But yes, I think this would rank up there with that. TVGuide.com: Mark Twain is your great-great-great uncle. Did that make it awkward for you to read the CliffsNotes for his books during school? Van Dien: You know, it was a thrill for me to read his books and see myself as Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn as a kid. But then to know that you're also related in some way is fun. When I was working in New York once, I got fan letters from these two kids saying, "You don't know us, but we're really big fans of you and we're related. Our great-great-grandfather is your great-great-great uncle." It was signed "John and Tom Clemens." They're fans of me when they're the great-great-grandchildren of one of the greatest writers ever! TVGuide.com: You are the sixth Casper Van Dien in your family line. You must have been, like, "Whew!" once you had your own son to pass on the name to. Van Dien: Yeah, I was glad I got that out of the way! My father said to me, "You can name your son whatever you want, but you'll be breaking a long, long tradition." TVGuide.com: Not too much pressure there. Van Dien: I said, "Thanks, Dad!" He said, "I'm just giving you the same speech I got." I gave my son that speech and he goes, "Great, I love the name Casper!" TVGuide.com: In a day when you can't open a tabloid without reading about the latest celebrity couple split, how do you and Catherine Oxenberg [married now for seven years] keep on keeping on? Van Dien: Well, we've been through a lot, but we're honest now. There were times where I had my own secrets and things like that, but I have a pretty amazing wife and a pretty amazing life. I've been divorced, and I don't ever want to do that again. Also, I couldn't imagine being with anyone else. I don't know how to explain it. In Hollywood a lot of temptations come up if you're not being honest, but if you're really honest, you work through it. We have a great marriage because we work at it, and that's key. We put our relationship before anything else, and that's important. It's not that my wife and I don't argue, but we never let the kids get between us. TVGuide.com: Besides, how can you argue with her when she has that cute little British accent? Van Dien: I know! I've also realized that when you think you've won an argument and you're sleeping on the couch, you really didn't win! Even if I know I'm right, I just say, "Yes, dear," and I get to wake up with her. Then I've won! TVGuide.com: You have a pair of new Sci Fi Channel movies coming up, one of which you describe as "Predator meets Blade." Are you happy with the niche you fill, as "the affordably priced action star"? Van Dien: It's because of Starship Troopers that I'm able to work on these other films, and I love working. Whether it's in an action movie or a science-fiction movie, it's what I always wanted to be doing, and here I am doing it — for 17 years now!
ABC Announces Fall '06
The Nine (Drama, Wednesdays 9pm)Premise: Nine people deal with the aftereffects of being held hostage during a bank robbery. Stars: Chi McBride ("Boston Public," "Killer Instinct"), Scott Wolf ("Everwood"), Kim Raver ("24"), Tim Daly ("Wings"), John Billingsley ("Star Trek: Enterprise"), Camille Guaty ("Prison Break"), Owain Yeoman ("Troy"), Dana Davis ("Veronica Mars"), Lourdes Benedicto ("24") Studio: Warner Bros. TV, Sunset Road Productions Producers: Hank Steinberg ("Without a Trace"), K.J. Steinberg ("Judging Amy"), Alex Graves
Talk Show Appearance
LATE LATE SHOW WITH CRAIG FERGUSON, CBS- May 23 - Casper Van Dien
Tidbit
KEVIN ZEGERS, one of Hollywood's new "It" boys thanks to his touching performance opposite Felicity Huffman in "Transamerica," is heading for the Cannes Film Festival. He will receive the Chopard Trophy for "Male Revelation." Uh, if you've seen "Transamerica," you know this award is for his acting, not his revealing nude scenes in that movie. Though I suppose some might feel these are award-winning. Elton John, who is the executive producer of Kevin's new film, "It's a Boy Girl Thing," presents the honor to young Mr. Zegers.
Judge: Part of Spelling Case May Continue
A judge has dismissed the defamation portion of a lawsuit filed by Aaron Spelling against his former nurse, but allowed the TV producer to pursue a breach-of-contract accusation.Spelling, 83, and his wife in November sued the nurse, Charlene Richards, and her attorney for $5 million for allegedly violating a confidentiality agreement and spreading rumors that Spelling sexually harassed her. Richards, 56, later filed a sexual harassment suit against the producer that alleged he asked her to have sex with him and "dress like a hooker." Richards and her attorney sent letters to more than 600 actresses as well as their agents and managers, inquiring whether Spelling had sexually harassed them. Spelling argued that the letter titled, "Survey on sexual harassment by Aaron Spelling," defamed him. Superior Court Judge William Highberger ruled that Richards was within her right to pursue litigation when she sent the letter. Highberger, however, dismissed the defamation portion of Spelling's suit. Richards signed a confidentiality agreement when she began working as a home nurse for Spelling in November 2004. She was fired in April 2005.Spelling's TV hits include "Charlie's Angels," "Beverly Hills 90210," "Dynasty" and "Fantasy Island."
Pilots: ABC Casts Wide, '3 Lbs.' Reborn at CBS
"Everwood" regular Scott Wolf and "Rent" man Taye Diggs have signed on to pilots at ABC, while at CBS, the brain-surgeon drama "3 Lbs." has new life after being passed over last year.Wolf, who plays Dr. Jake Hartman on "Everwood," has joined the cast of an ABC drama from "Without a Trace" creator Hank Steinberg and his sister, K.J. The show, formerly titled "Nine Lives," will follow nine people who were held hostage in a bank robbery. The former "Party of Five" star will be joined in the cast by Lourdes Benedicto ("NYPD Blue," "24") and Jessica Collins ("Tru Calling"), according to The Hollywood Reporter. Also at ABC, Diggs, who last year starred in UPN's "Kevin Hill," will take the lead role in "Daybreak," Variety says. He'll play a cop who's trying to prevent a murder while at the same time clearing his name in another homicide for which he's been framed. The network has also cast Laura Harris ("24," "Dead Like Me") and Jaime Ray Newman ("General Hospital") as the title characters in "Hollis & Rae," a drama about a cop and a prosecutor who work together and are also good friends. The show comes from Steven Bochco ("Commander In Chief") and Callie Khouri ("Thelma & Louise"). Among the projects getting pilot orders are a revamped version of "3 Lbs.," which CBS decided not to order last year. The show, which will get a different title, will follow a neurosurgeon who takes on a new partner while discovering his brain may be starting to fail him. Peter Ocko, who wrote the pilot last year, is back as writer and executive producer. Dylan McDermott, who starred in the pilot last year, has opted not to return; there's no word on the rest of the original cast, which included Reiko Aylesworth ("24") and Mark Feuerstein ("Good Morning, Miami"). CBS has also ordered a comedy called "The Weekend," about three friends who live for their two days off work. Britcom veteran Ed Roe ("Smack the Pony") wrote the script. ABC has also added to its pilot roster, ordering comedies "I Love the Things I Hate About You" from writers Patti Carr and Lara Runnels ("Boy Meets World," "Reba") and "52 Fights" from Alex Taub ("Felicity") and Peter Traugott ("Jake in Progress"). Both orders are contingent on casting.
Spelling Sued for Harrassment
Aaron Spelling's life has taken a turn Dynasty-esque turn.The TV titan is facing a sexual harassment lawsuit from a former nurse who accuses the geriatric Spelling of groping her and asking for sexual favors during her period of employ. The suit, filed Thursday in Los Angeles Superior Court, comes two months after Spelling launched a preemptive lawsuit against the woman and her lawyer for libel. In her broadside, Charlene Richards alleges the 82-year-old mastermind behind Charlie's Angels, The Love Boat, T.J. Hooker, Dynasty, Beverly Hills, 90210, Melrose Place, Charmed and 7th Heaven placed his hands on her breasts, "groin and genital area," exposed himself, solicited oral sex and offered her cash in return for various sex acts. Per court papers, the home nurse was first hired to tend to Spelling in November 2004. Shortly thereafter, she claims, Spelling began his lewd behavior, which also allegedly included masturbated in front of Richards, sticking his tongue in her mouth and telling her "that he had many actresses who would come into his office and perform oral sex on him." She says that when she refused his advances, Spelling fired her four months later "without notice or cause." Richards' suit seeks unspecified damages from Spelling, his wife, Candy, and the couple's trust. Aside from sexual harassment and sexual battery, the nurse accuses the couple of retaliation and wrongful termination. The Spelling camp, naturally, sees things differently. "Mr. Spelling denies every single thing she says and we will fight the case all the way. In our view it has no merit," the producer's attorney, Bert Fields, tells E! Online. "Anybody who knows Aaron would know that he would not, could not do the things she alleges and knows he's a complete gentleman." The intrigue began last November, when Spelling sued Richards and her lawyer, Don. D. Sessions, accusing them of violating a confidentiality agreement by sending out a mass mailing to "hundreds of people," among them many former Spelling starlets--including Jessica Biel, Alyssa Milano, Heather Locklear, Shannen Doherty, Farrah Fawcett and Linda Evans. The letter outlined Richards' allegations (without mentioning her by name) and urged others to come forward with tales of Spelling transgressions. Spelling also claimed Richards was attempting to extort money from him by threatening to take her allegations public unless he paid her "an unspecified" settlement. Spelling sought $5 million in compensatory damages. The suit portrayed Richards and Sessions as money grubbers. "That suit is still pending and it's our contention that by [Richards] filing this kind of a lawsuit...by putting all these wild accusations in the complaint, she has once again violated her confidentiality agreement." Neither Richards nor Sessions could be reached for comment.
Missing Huffman
Kevin Zegers, hot "It" boy on the rise, partying at the Weinstein/Glamour bash, said he really misses his "Transamerica" co-star Felicity Huffman. "When you're together so long, especially in a car, you get to know each other really well. We were pretty sweaty!"
New ABC Pilot
ABC has also ordered "Secrets of a Small Town," in which a young girl's murder leads to a number of revelations about the town's inhabitants. Pratt, an exec producer of "Housewives" who's written for "Melrose Place," "Titans" and "General Hospital," wrote the pilot and will executive produce with Chris Brancato and Bert Salke ("Boomtown," "North Shore").
Spelling TV lays off most staffers
Most of the staff of Spelling Television, home of the WB Network dramas "7th Heaven" and "Charmed," have been let go, sources said.The layoffs affect about 25 people. Chairman and CEO Aaron Spelling, vice chairman E. Duke Vincent and president Jonathan Levin will continue with the company, which will become a pod within its Paramount Network TV parent. "7th Heaven" will end its 10-year run in May, because it was getting too expensive to produce. "Charmed" is in its eighth season. A Paramount TV spokeswoman declined comment Thursday.
Aaron Spelling Sues Nurse for Defamation
Producer Aaron Spelling has sued a nurse and her attorney for allegedly violating a confidentiality agreement and spreading rumors around Hollywood that Spelling sexually harassed her.Spelling and his wife, Candy Spelling, filed suit in Los Angeles Superior Court last week against Charlene Richards and her attorney, Don D. Sessions. Richards signed a confidentiality agreement when she began working as a home nurse for Spelling, 82, in November 2004. According to the lawsuit, Richards threatened to reveal confidential information about the "Charlie's Angels" TV producer unless he paid her "an unspecified amount" to settle her sexual harassment claims. Earlier this month, Sessions and Richards allegedly sent letters to "hundreds of people, including actresses on current and former Spelling television shows," implying Spelling sexually harassed Richards and other employees. The Spellings seek $5 million in compensatory damages. Their attorney, Bertram Fields, said Richards' claims are false. The lawsuit characterizes Richards as someone whose "goal in life is to find a rich man to support her in a lavish manner." "She's asking for $30 million, which tells you something," Fields told The Associated Press. Sessions did not return a telephone call seeking comment.
'Boy Girl' Casts Man, Woman
Samaire Armstrong and Kevin Zegers will play the titular leads in the new romantic comedy "It's a Boy Girl Thing."According to the industry trade papers Armstrong ("The O.C.") and Zegers ("Air Bud: Seventh Inning Fetch") will play teenagers who are next-door-neighbors and bitter rivals of some sort. Then one morning, they wake up and discover that they've swapped bodies. Nice. They set out to destroy each other's reputations in high school. Then, though, infatuation -- and perhaps hilarity -- sets in. The trades report that Sharon Osbourne, Maury Chaykin and Mpho Koaho have also been cast. Nick Hurran ("Little Black Book") is directing from a script by Geoff Deane. Production has already begun in Toronto. Elton John's Rocket Pictures is co-producing the film and John may contribute a song to the soundtrack. Armstrong, who has also appeared in multiple episodes of "Entourage," will next be seen opposite Lindsay Lohan in "Just My Luck." Zegers co-stars with Felicity Huffman in the winter release "Transamerica."
McDowell, Van Dien unearth 'Tut' miniseries
Miniseries producer Hallmark Entertainment is going back in time to offer a new take on the discovery of King Tut's tomb in a project starring Malcolm McDowell and Casper Van Dien.The company recently wrapped shooting in India on "The Curse of King Tut's Tomb," a four-hour miniseries billed as a fact-based fantasy adventure. It's set mostly in the 1920s but includes flashbacks to ancient Egypt. Van Dien plays an archaeologist in the 1920s, while McDowell portrays Van Dien's nemesis, the head of an organization named Hellfire Club. Leonor Varela ("Blade II") portrays an archaeologist with whom Van Dien initially spars but who ultimately becomes a love interest, while relative newcomer Francisco Bosch ("Alexander") plays Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamen. "It's a combination of being a fantastical adventure (and) a very touching, heartfelt romantic story," director Russell Mulcahy said, adding that the miniseries is "quite heavy on the effects side." It's unclear what network the miniseries is headed for; Hallmark Entertainment declined comment on potential network homes.
Film review: Transamerica
On the big screen, "Desperate Housewives" star Felicity Huffman often has been relegated to the supporting category of friend/sister/neighbor.With the poignant and often deliriously funny road-trip feature "Transamerica," she steps into the challenging lead role of a solitary pre-operative transsexual and delivers an extraordinary portrait. The film marks an auspicious debut for writer-director Duncan Tucker, whose fresh, character-driven storytelling should make this December release from the Weinstein Co. an art-house favorite. Whatever it says about the zeitgeist, the theme of unexpected fatherhood has informed the work of a number of filmmakers this year, among them Jim Jarmusch ("Broken Flowers"), Wim Wenders ("Don't Come Knocking") and Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne ("The Child"). In this case the reluctant but curious dad who learns he has a son happens to be a woman in tasteful pastels. The transgender spin avoids gimmickiness thanks to Tucker's deft touch and the subtle work of Huffman and the rest of the pitch-perfect cast, especially Kevin Zegers as the lost-and-found offspring. Gender politics is an element of the film but by no means its subject. Tucker's concerns are loneliness, emotional honesty and the simple need for human kindness. Bree, nee Stanley (Huffman), is self-contained in her little Los Angeles bungalow, and her closest friend is her compassionate therapist, Margaret (Elizabeth Pena). A week before the ultimate surgical step in her gender transformation, she receives a phone call from a 17-year-old New York inmate who claims to be Stanley's son. Single-minded in her countdown to the operating room, Bree dismisses the unwanted disruption, but Margaret refuses to OK the medical procedure until Bree goes to New York to address the matter. Bree bails out the brooding Toby (Zegers) but hasn't the nerve to divulge why she's there and plays along when he assumes she's a church missionary. A photograph confirms that the boy, a good-looking street hustler who ran away from home after his mother died, is the product of a college coupling, and a sense of responsibility takes hold of Bree. Instead of flying home she buys a chartreuse station wagon to drive Toby cross-country to L.A., where he expects to find his father living large and hopes to break into movies -- of the San Fernando Valley sort. Bree maintains her "deep stealth" (living as a genetic female), keeping two secrets from Toby - her biological history and his. She's a fascinating character, and Huffman brilliantly embodies the complex layers of self-awareness and denial in this prim yet gutsy individual, who each day must paint on a face and put on a voice to become more truly herself. Self-consciousness is a constant, as the film powerfully demonstrates when a child's innocent but discerning question plunges Bree into despair. As a boy who considers sex his chief talent, Zegers - of the "Air Bud" films and last year's "Dawn of the Dead" remake - conveys Toby's essential sweetness and hunger for real affection, making him much more than just a vain or damaged kid. Instead of settling into quirky odd-couple shtick, the film is full of unexpected turns, every character the duo encounters surprising and well observed, from a free-spirited hitcher (Grant Monohon) to a New Mexico rancher (Graham Greene) who gallantly comes to Bree's assistance, more than a bit smitten. Tucker's astute script and direction weave laugh-out-loud humor into his characters' longing for acceptance, particularly when their journey takes them to the Phoenix McMansion of Bree's family - whose kitsch collectibles, part of Mark White's excellent production design, supply one of the funniest moments in the film. You don't have to be a transsexual to understand the way Bree's parents (Fionnula Flanagan and Burt Young) and sister (Carrie Preston) feed her self-doubt. But even the wonderful Flanagan's turquoise-bedecked, monstrously materialistic Elizabeth is afforded her humanity, because Duncan lets emotions unfold instead of merely scoring points and moving on. David Mansfield's Americana-tinged score underlines the optimism and the plaintiveness of a journey that's memorably captured in DP Stephen Kazmierski's sensitive camerawork. Bree: Felicity Huffman Toby: Kevin Zegers Elizabeth: Fionnula Flanagan Margaret: Elizabeth Pena Calvin: Graham Greene Murray: Burt Young Sydney: Carrie Preston Arletty: Venida Evans Hitchhiker: Grant Monohon Director/writer: Duncan Tucker; Producers: Linda Moran, Rene Bastian, Sebastian Dungan; Executive producer: William H. Macy; Director of photography: Stephen Kazmierski; Production designer: Mark White; Music: David Mansfield; Costume designer: Danny Glicker; Editor: Pam Wise.
ABC Family paying up for 'Breadwinners'
Cable channel ABC Family has given the go-ahead to a sitcom pilot tentatively titled "Breadwinners." The project revolves around three friends -- Anne (Christina Chang), Elizabeth (Elizabeth Bogush) and Rebecca (Amy Laughlin) -- who are all successful career women wondering whether a successful relationship is possible with men who earn less than they do. Andrew Bowen and Jordan Belfi round out the cast as Anne's husband and Elizabeth's fianc, respectively. The pilot is scheduled to begin shooting later this month in Los Angeles.
Get Well Soon
VICTORIA Principal was rushed to the Malibu Urgent Care Clinic on Saturday due to a rare blood disorder, intravascular hypercoagulation. The former actress, who now has a multimillion-dollar skin-care line, has "suffered in silence for years with this debilitating disease," a friend said. Principal was "released from the hospital and is now at home under doctor's care." Her rep confirmed the ailment.
Silver Bells
Tate Donovan ("The O.C.") has signed on to star opposite Anne Heche in "Silver Bells," a CBS/Hallmark Hall of Fame holiday movie. Michael Mitchell and Lourdes Benedicto ("24") have also joined the cast. "Silver Bells," based on a book by Luanne Rice, tells the story of a librarian (Heche) who takes in a teenager (Mitchell) after he runs away from his dad (Donovan), who sells Christmas trees in New York. Benedicto will play Heche's best friend.
'I Married a Princess' Has a Royal Mother's Day
Airing not long before Mother's Day, the Monday, May 2, episode of Lifetime Television's reality series "I Married a Princess," airing at 11 p.m. (ET/PT), features a visit by Princess Elizabeth of Yugoslavia to the Malibu home of her daughter and son-in-law, actors Catherine Oxenberg and Casper Van Dien, and their blended family of daughters India, Gracie, Maya and Celeste, and son Cappy.Her Royal Highness is not an ordinary mother-in-law. A descendant of Catherine the Great of Russia, she's a businesswoman, humanitarian and former candidate for the presidency of Serbia and Montenegro, part of the former Yugoslavia. And after a life spent in many countries (she is citizen of both Serbia and Montenegro, and the U.S.), Princess Elizabeth now lives in Belgrade, in her ancestral land. "They've invited them [the royal family] back," Oxenberg says, "but so far it's just titular. It's pretty much a decorative role these days." Included in the episode is footage from Princess Elizabeth's presidential bid last summer, in which she ultimately came in sixth in the first round of voting, with 2.1 percent of the vote. Top finishers Boris Tadic and Tomislav Nikolic then had a run-off election, with Tadic coming out on top. "Catherine and India went over there and campaigned for her," Van Dien says. "She came in six out of 16 candidates," Oxenberg says, "considering she campaigned for two weeks with no political party, no platform that I could figure out, just on personality." "And no money," Van Dien adds. "It took a lot of guts, and I'm proud to be married to such strong women that are willing to go out on such a limb. To have my mother-in-law running, my wife and daughter going over there and helping campaign -- it was incredible to see that kind of power and strength, especially in an ex-Communist country." Princess Elizabeth's family, the ruling dynasty of Serbia, lost the throne in 1945, when Yugoslavia became a republic. After the fall of communism in the early 1990s, Yugoslavia began to break apart, leading to violent ethnic and political struggles. Since 2002, former Serbian president Slobodan Milosevic has been on trial at The Hague for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the 1990s conflicts in Bosnia, Croatia and Kosovo. "My mother was hands-on bringing prosthetics for war victims and orphans," Oxenberg says, "and medical supplies for orphans. She was hands-on helping the people. I know that they like to blame the Serbs, but they're weren't the only ones killing people. It was a mass genocide on all sides. It was horrible. "My mother's not in a political position, but she was in a humanitarian position. Unfortunately Americans have a very one-sided view of what happened in that part of the world, because we're fed just one set of news. It's often very biased, which is unfortunate." Although the show doesn't dwell on Oxenberg's royal family history, it does expose the challenges she faces in her own household, from her bulimia to Van Dien's alcoholism (he says he's been sober for 11 years). "I tell you something," Oxenberg says, "the first episode comes off as a fluffy little show, and it's downhill from there. It's nitty-gritty from then on."
- Ingo Places Fouth In Celeb Grand Prix
Three-time Pikes Peak Hill Climb winner Rhys Millen came from the back of the field Saturday to win the 29th annual Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race at the Long Beach Grand Prix, beating fellow pro Ryan Arciero and television actor Frankie Muniz. Pole winner Ingo Rademacher, who plays Jasper (Jax) Jacks in TV's General Hospital, started out front of the 16-car field but drove into a tire wall on the first turn of the 10-lap race on the 1.968-mile downtown street circuit. The amateurs are given a 30-second head start on the pros in the race featuring identically prepared Toyota Celicas, but they made it a little easier for the pros to play catch-up Saturday. "Those guys ahead of us all slowed on the first corner when Ingo went into the tires and allowed us to close the gap," said Millen, who went on to take the lead on the seventh lap. "But I have a lot of respect for everyone I was running against today. "They did their best to not block or cause a hazard." Muniz, who crashed on the final lap last year while running second, made no mistakes this time, waiting patiently Saturday behind Rademacher and Olympic swimming champion Aaron Piersol until the two of them tangled and drove into a tire wall on the last lap. The only guys he couldn't catch were Millen and Arciero, a three-time winner of the Baja 1000 off-road event. "Last year I just remember being so nervous every time I got in the car, especially before the race," said Muniz, the star of TV's Malcolm in the Middle sitcom and several movies, including Agent Cody Banks. "This time, I just knew if you didn't crash, you were going to be good because everyone was going so hard," he added. "This is incredible. Racing is all I want to do. "The first time they asked me, I was 15 and I had to wait until I was 18. I finally got to run last year and loved it. I'd like to get into it on a more serious basis in the future." Millen, the son of longtime off-road star Rod Millen, has starred in hill climbs, off-road racing, rallying and the new sport of drifting, but this was his first wheel-to-wheel competition. "To run in a group and have a successful drive is a brilliant feeling," he said. "I'm hooked." Somehow Rademacher hung on to finish fourth, followed by Peirsol. Amanda Beard, another Olympic swimming champion, finished 12th, followed by former NBA star Karl Malone. The main event for the weekend features the Champ Car World Series and airs at 4pm ET/1 pm PT on NBC.
- TV Land Awards Toast Spelling, 'Soul Train'
The third annual "TV Land Awards: A Celebration of Classic TV" will celebrate two of television's funniest performers, one of the medium's most prolific producers and one of popular culture's most influential programs. The show will tape on Sunday, March 13 at the Barker Hanger in Santa Monica, Calif. and will air on TV Land as a 90-minute special on Wednesday, March 16. Aaron Spelling, whose credits range from "The Mod Squad" to "Beverly Hills, 90210" to "Summerland," will receive the Pioneer Award, which TV Land says is give to a "television creator who is an industry leader, a visionary who is able to bring together all the disparate elements that lead to great television -- wonderful ideas, skillful craftspeople, charismatic actors and talented writers." On hand to celebrate Spelling will be Joan Collins, Peggy Lipton, Luke Perry, Jason Priestly and daughter Tori Spelling. Carol Burnett will take the Legend Award, with colleagues Tim Conway, Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence and Lyle Waggoner in attendance. Peter Bonerz, Bill Daily, Suzanne Pleshette and Marcia Wallace are set to appear as part of a tribute to Bob Newhart, who will be given the Icon Award. The Pop Culture Award will go to "Soul Train," as a "show that has crossed the line from television series to pop culture phenomenon." Winners in a variety of other categories, some open for voting on the TV Land website, will be announced at the show.
- Vegas Wedding for Fox, Spelling
Fox is reteaming with "Beverly Hills, 90210" and "Melrose Place" producer Spelling Television for a one-hour project set at a Las Vegas wedding chapel. The network has given the go-ahead to a pilot for the untitled project, which revolves around a brother/sister team who manage a one-stop-shopping Vegas wedding emporium, their complicated romantic relationships and the outrageous entanglements of their employees and clients. Jeffrey Lieber penned the pilot and is executive producing with Aaron Spelling and E. Duke Vincent. Lieber, who wrote an early script for the pilot of ABC's "Lost," also penned the 2002 feature "Tuck Everlasting."
- Liz on The Mountain
Be sure to watch Elizabeth Bogush (ex-Jenny) on the new Oliver Hudson / Anson Mount primetime drama 'The Mountain', Sundays at 9pm on The WB
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- GH/Titans Hunk To Retire
No, not next week, or even in the next six months, as several publications have recently speculated. "My contract isn't up for negotiation right now," he tells TV Guide Online. But Rademacher, who plays Jasper Jacks on General Hospital, does plan to return to reside in his native country, Australia. "I'd like to have a farm somewhere. That's definitely in the cards in the next five years." The laid-back thesp wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. "The city has a lot of different energies and vibrations, and it's not very calming," he explains. "If you're on a farm, you don't have cell phone waves going through your brain and electricity shooting everywhere." Rademacher will stay in the entertainment business, mainly through film. "I just optioned one called Cosmo Man," he reveals. While he's still on U.S. soil, Rademacher is taking on a bigger battle: The fur industry. He recently shot an anti-fur ad for the U.S. Humane Society. "I do a lot of environmental work," he shares. "Fur is extremely dirty — the process it goes through — it's covered in blood and dirt," says the actor. "What gets me is when they club baby seals, just for their fur." Like most celebs who shoot anti-fur campaigns, Rademacher shed his own shirt to hit the point home. "I'm standing over a tub in rubber gloves, washing a fur coat and trying to get the stench out of it." As for the masses who still want that luxurious look, Rademacher has a suggestion. "Wear it faux," he exclaims. "It's more environmentally friendly, and can anyone really tell the difference?"
- Victoria's Dallas Secrets Revealed!
It's been nearly two decades since Victoria Principal left Dallas behind, but dang if the 54-year-old stunner doesn't still sound like the only actress who could've possibly played the indomitable Pamela Ewing. Now the kind of businesswoman who'd turn even J.R. dollar-green with envy — her Principal Secret line of skin-care products is worth a pretty penny — she has resisted the temptation to revisit her old stomping ground via TV-movies, holding out instead for what she considers a proper reminiscence, this weekend's Dallas Reunion: Return to Southfork (Sunday at 9 pm/ET on CBS). Before shooting the breeze with her former castmates at the get-together, she took a moment to dish the dirt with TV Guide Online. TV Guide Online: Is it true that you got your Dallas audition under false pretenses? Victoria Principal: I sent myself in for it! I had left acting to be an agent and was on my way to law school, but when a friend dropped off a Dallas script, I read it. When I finished, I knew my life had changed — that part was mine. So I called the [casting] person and said, 'I'm sending someone in.' She said, 'Who?' I said, 'Just put down my name. It will be a surprise.' And it certainly was a surprise — I showed up with me! TVGO: Patrick Duffy has said that he knew at once you were Pam. Principal: I had so thought about her and her lifestyle that the outfit I wore to the audition is what they asked me to wear in the first episode. They just couldn't get it out of their heads that I walked in looking exactly like her. TVGO: Your insight obviously paid off. Dallas didn't just become a hit, it became a cultural bellwether! Principal: We broke a lot of taboos, because we discussed in a very factual way whether someone was an alcoholic or had cancer or was gay or was adulterous. We showed a couple having good sex who were married. Hello! Who ever saw two married people on TV have good sex — with each other?! These were very provocative issues, but they were never done in a trashy way. TVGO: You must have been ticked then that the show was so often dismissed by critics as well-cooked mental junk food. Principal: God, I was always so offended by those descriptions. I really felt that it was very much like the old serials of the '30s. It was a serial, not a soap. It was done on film and we took seven or eight days to do an episode... with a quality crew. I'm not for one minute putting down soaps; it simply wasn't one. TVGO: Nonetheless, Dallas certainly possessed elements of classic soap. Weren't Bobby and Pam the Texan equivalent of Romeo and Juliet? Principal: We ended up being that. Originally, Bobby was supposed to be killed off in the first five episodes. Pam was going to become the protagonist and Larry Hagman the antagonist. They had no idea that Patrick and I would have so much chemistry [or that] Larry would create another level of acting with his role. So the decision was made by the network to keep Pam and Bobby as a couple, and I'm so glad they did. TVGO: No regrets, then, that Pam always had to toe the line morally? Principal: As Larry blossomed and J.R. became more and more evil, there had to be good on the show or it would have been unwatchable. Patrick's character became very good, and so did mine, which made it less interesting to me. I thought Pam was so complicated in the beginning. Then, by Year 6, she had become pretty one-dimensional for me. But the network was consumed with her being all good. TVGO: Many people say when you left, so did the heart of the show. Would you agree that's when Dallas began its decline? Principal: It's very hard to keep a show fresh after more than five years. You can blame it on me, though — I'm very flattered. Actually, the decline of Pam's role precipitated my leaving. But I also felt that there was a decline in the show overall. They offered me the most amount of money ever offered a series actress to stay, but my experience in life outweighed the money. TVGO: How much moolah are we talking about here? Principal: I'm not allowed to say! TVGO: When Bobby emerged from the shower, washing away an entire season as a dream, did you think, "Aw, crap! We just jumped the shark!"? Principal: I was very happy to see Patrick. But I must say [that in his absence] I had a really nice experience with John Beck, who played [Pam's other back-from-the-dead love interest] Mark Graison. TVGO: Were you really happy to see Patrick? I've heard he's a terrible prankster! Principal: Patrick and Larry were like two brothers... an older and younger brother. And the younger brother wants to keep up with the older one. So the pranks they played were amazing. I have a very strong sense of smell, so Patrick used to put a clove of garlic under his tongue just before our love scenes to see if I could get through it. TVGO: Eww! Principal: So I'm supposed to look like I'm kissing the love of my life and I'm completely turned on, and meanwhile, I'm wondering if I can do it without gagging! Whenever Patrick was bored, he found some way to torture me! TVGO: Speaking of torture, why haven't we seen you act in so long? Your last series, Titans, came and went in the blink of an eye. Principal: I act when something appeals to me [so much] that I can't imagine anyone else doing it. It's really a wonderful luxury to have. So many friends in the industry in their 50s... it's not fair, but they're offered so few roles. But in fact, [now is] when we hit our stride. TVGO: Ah, if only you were in Europe! Principal: In Europe, a woman in her 50s is a babe! I pursue a European way of life; that's how I regard myself. My husband [Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Harry Glassman] and I are celebrating 22 years. He's handsome, smart and funny, and I have two wonderful stepchildren and two beautiful granddaughters. I live under the radar, and I'm happy to be that way.
- 'Dallas' revisited: Oil is thicker than water
At the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, curious excitement is bubblin' today like crude. Oil, that is. A plane has just landed from Los Angeles carrying the Ewings of Dallas - the prime-time soap that ruled the '80s with its clan of double-crossing oil barons. They are the men and women who from 1978 to 1991 had millions of people guessing who shot J.R., along with countless other cliffhangers spanning 357 serialized episodes. On Nov. 21, 1980, 80% of American TV sets in use were tuned to CBS to find out the identity of J.R.'s assailant. Back in Dallas to shoot the two-hour CBS special Dallas Reunion: The Return to Southfork (Sunday, 9 p.m. ET/PT) are Larry Hagman (J.R.) and Patrick Duffy (news) (Bobby), standing by baggage claim with their wives, Maj and Carlyn. Linda Gray (Sue Ellen) is also here with her treasured hairdresser, Patrick, who years ago took Gray's auburn hair blond. And standing peacefully (gasp!) next to Hagman is Mary Crosby (Kristin), the woman who famously filled J.R. with lead. Hagman and Co.'s waiting limousines take them to the Mansion on Turtle Creek, a posh Dallas hotel that served as the cast's second home during Dallas' original location shoots. In the dining room, over tortilla soup, they try to recall some of Dallas' lesser-remembered mysteries. To help jog their memories, Duffy, 55, phones upstairs to the suite of his former television wife, Victoria Principal (Pam). But Principal declines Duffy's invitation to join the party. She ate an early dinner and is already in bed. But about 10 minutes later, Principal calls Duffy to ask, "Can I still come?" The next day at the Southfork Ranch, sitting in the Ewing living room beneath a stern portrait of the late Jim Davis (Ewing patriarch Jock), Principal explains her change of heart the night before. "After I hung up, it felt so wrong," Principal says. "I had to go down and see them all." The actress, 58, had a far more significant change of heart about taking part in a Dallas reunion project. Apart from a reunion photo for Vanity Fair in June 1995, Principal has avoided everything Dallas-related since she left the series in 1987 to launch her own TV-movie production company and her hugely successful Principal Secret skin-care line. She acknowledges that her last few hours back with the old gang have provoked "a roller coaster of unprecedented emotion." For the special, the cast is divided into couples to reminisce for the cameras. There's J.R. and Sue Ellen in the bedroom, the sight of so many ugly battles. J.R. and Bobby in the Ewing Oil boardroom. Bobby and Pam by the corral. Ray (Steve Kanaly) and Lucy (Charlene Tilton) in the stables, where they used to romp before discovering they were uncle and niece. And Pam sits with brother Cliff (actor Ken Kercheval), enjoying a pitcher of lemonade by the famous Southfork pool, where someone - usually Cliff - got tossed in at the annual Ewing barbecues. (Someone else gets doused in the special.) Kercheval played J.R.'s archrival, the hapless loser Cliff Barnes. Recently separated from his third wife, Kercheval, 69, had cancer surgery in the late '90s to remove the lower lobe of a lung. Seeing the actor light a cigarette on the set today is jarring. "I did not pick the time that I came into this world, and I will not pick the time I go out," Kercheval grumbles. Kanaly, 58, who had a heart attack nine years ago, now goes on 5-mile walks every day with his wife, Brent, near their home in Ojai, Calif. Tilton, 45, has gone from being the show's underappreciated sexpot (she was let go from the series twice and was "hurt" to not be asked back for two Dallas reunion movies) to being the executive producer of this special. Teamed with her managers, twin brothers Anthony and Terry Anzaldo, Tilton took her reunion concept to TV's former Fonzie, Henry Winkler, and his producing partner, Michael Levitt. Winkler is on the phone with the manager of one former cast member who declined to attend the reunion because of failing health. "Tell her we love her and we miss her," Winkler says in a message to Barbara Bel Geddes, 82 (Miss Ellie), who lives in Maine. Says Tilton: "Barbara said, 'I'd love to do it, I just can't. I know it sounds boring, but this is my life right now: I read and sit here and look at my lake.' " Out on the Southfork driveway, the original fleet of Ewing cars has been reassembled. An eternal jokester, Hagman, now 73, pretends to impale himself on one of the bullhorns mounted to the front of Jock Ewing's old Cadillac Eldorado. Hagman came close to death in 1995, before he received a new liver. "It was very traumatic for all of us," recalls Gray, 62, one of the first to see Hagman after his operation. "I went over (to the Hagman home) and just broke down in tears. And weird Larry had to show me the scar." Ever the eccentric, Hagman has stipulated that upon his death, he wants his body to be ground in a wood chipper and scattered in a field, where wheat is to be harvested for a cake to be eaten by his friends and family one year later. Everyone in the cast said that when that time comes, they'd happily accept a slice of Larry. "But I'll never eat it," Duffy says. "It'll be frozen in my freezer, and I'll take him out every once in a while, have a glass of champagne, then stick him back in."
- ``SeeMyLA'' Celebrity Campaign
LA INC. The Convention and Visitors Bureau's "SeeMyLA" tourism campaign uses the faces of celebrities and their favorite quotes to promote the destination for leisure and convention travel. The integrated marketing campaign appears in print media, collateral, at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)'s customs and arrivals areas, and on the city's official visitor information Web site, www.seemyla.com. The campaign is scheduled to run through Sept. 2005. "Ethnic, cultural, artistic and culinary diversity. LA...a feast for the senses." -Yasmine Bleeth
- Wagner Debuts New Song!
In the coming weeks, Jack Wagner (Nick) will unveil on THE BOLD & THE BEAUTIFUL a brand new song he co-wrote for the show entitled "Going Back Again" — and fans soon will have a chance to get a copy of the tune. Beginning Friday, January 23 (the day the song is debuted on B&B), fans can log onto BandBfanclub.com to download it for just 99 cents. Want to know more? Keep an eye out for an upcoming issue of CBS Soaps In Depth in which Wagner shares his musical aspirations and inspirations, accompanied by pictures of him performing "Going Back Again" on the show.
- Katie Joins Ingo on General Hospital
Katie Stuart will assume the role of Sage, previously played by Eileen Boylan, on GH. Her first airdate is Dec. 3
- George Rejoins Eve for 'Sex' on UPN
Jason George (ex-Michael, Sunset Beach) guest stars in the Eve series premiere on Sept. 15 (8:30 pm/ET, UPN)...
- SoapNet Acquires 'Dallas'
"Dallas," a Friday night fixture on CBS for 13 seasons, will take up residence as a daily sudser on SoapNet. The acquisition is the third for the cable channel in less than a year, advancing its effort to air non-ABC soaps. Earlier, SoapNet acquired "Dynasty" and "Another World." "For us, it's a very large acquisition. 'Dallas' is the emblematic soap," SoapNet general manager Deborah Blackwell told Daily Variety. "It not only broadens and enriches our offerings, but it's something our viewers have been asking for since day one." SoapNet is the No. 6 basic cable channel in the 18-49 demographic. "Dallas" starred Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray and Victoria Principal when it debuted in 1978. The saga of the oil-rich Ewing family gained the most notoriety for its "Who Shot J.R." cliffhanger at the end of the second season.
- Benedicto on '24'
Lourdes Benedicto (Samantha Sanchez) can be seen guest starring on FOX's 24 starring Keifer Sutherland (Tuesdays at 9pm)
- George Rejoins Eve for 'Sex' on UPN
Jason George, who recently starred in UPN's critically praised series "Platinum," is in talks to star opposite Eve in the actress/hip-hop artist's new sitcom for the network, "The Opposite Sex." The project, reunites George with Eve after he played her boyfriend in the hit comedy "Barbershop" last year. "The Opposite Sex" centers on a clothing designer (Eve). George will play an athletic, beer-drinking, regular kind of guy. He is replacing Bumper Robinson, who played the part in the pilot. George's credits also include the WB Network's comedy "Off Center."
- American Dreams For Bogush
Elizabeth Bogush (Jenny, Titans) is scheduled to guest star on the March 16 episode of the hit drama 'American Dreams'. Dreams airs at 8pm/9c on NBC.
- Liz on A.U.S.A.
Elizabeth Bogush (Jenny) was recently (Feb 4) on the pilot episode of the new series "A.U.S.A." starring Scott Foley and in November 2002 she was on an episode of "Everybody Loves Raymond" entitled "She's the One". Be sure to look for those episodes in re-runs.
- Baywatch Women Say They're Back on Track
Three "Baywatch" beauties have had tumultuous lives since the show ended, but Pamela Anderson, Carmen Electra and Yasmine Bleeth say they're back on track and happy. Anderson, who is engaged to rock-rapper Kid Rock (Bob Ritchie) and recently announced that she was diagnosed with hepatitis C, said she's concentrating on her family. "I've had to start facing things like, 'What will happen if I'm not around,'" Anderson told TV Guide for its Feb. 22 issue. "My priorities are my boys. I'm trying to create a new family with Bob and his son." Anderson has two sons, Brandon, 6, and Dylan, 4, with former Motley Crew drummer Tommy Lee. The two divorced after a rocky marriage. Electra, who had a brief marriage to Dennis Rodman in 1998, has settled down with rock guitarist Dave Navarro. She said she and her fiance "stay home, eat and cuddle." A "Baywatch" reunion movie, set to air Feb. 28 on Fox with all three actresses, is Bleeth's first acting job in a year. She was arrested in September 2001 and sentenced to two years' probation on a cocaine-possession charge. She said she has been sober for a year. The arrest was "a wake-up call." She has settled down with new husband Paul Cerrito, whom she met in rehab. "I'm very much in love and have chosen the man I want to be with for the rest of my life," she said. "This is the most blissful time of my life."
- New Yasmine Photos
Click here! to see some of Yasmine's new photos from FHM magazine. On stands now!
- UPN Goes 'Platinum' in April
UPN is giving audiences two chances to see the premiere of its midseason drama "Platinum." The ambitious hip-hop family saga will hit the air on Monday, April 14 at 9 p.m. ET before moving to its regular night and time, Tuesdays at 9 p.m., on April 15. Set in New York and focusing on the Ellis brothers, two record industry moguls with differing business styles, "Platinum" has an impressive pedigree. Directed by Kevin Bray ("All About the Benjamins" ), the pilot is written by John Ridley ("Three Kings" ), and is based on story by Ridley and Sofia Coppala ("The Virgin Suicides" ). Sticky Fingaz and Jason George star as brothers Grady and Jackson Ellis. Lalanya Masters plays Jackson's wife, Monica, and Davetta Sherwood plays their younger sister, Jade. Steven Pasquale also stars as an Ellis family friend and chief counsel to the brothers.
- Yasmine on FHM
Look for Yasmine Bleeth (& other Baywatch babes) on the cover of the March issue of FHM Magazine on stands February 11, 2003.
- Baywatch Hawaiian Wedding
Don't forget to watch Yasmine Bleeth Feb 28 at 8pm on FOX for the new Baywatch movie: Baywatch Hawaiian Wedding.
- Bleeth breaks her silence on battle against cocaine
''I never expected to get into drugs,'' Yasmine Bleeth says. But the former Baywatch actress has spent the past five years battling cocaine. She chronicles her addiction in the February issue of Glamour, which arrives on newsstands Tuesday. At first, in 1998, cocaine was a social thing, says Bleeth, 34. Then she realized she could call a dealer and have it delivered to her home, ''like ordering Chinese food.'' It soon became all she could think about: coming home from work to do lines. Baywatch ended in 1997; she was living in San Francisco playing opposite Don Johnson on Nash Bridges. ''I'd spend hours plucking my eyebrows, putting on tanning cream, doing a facial. But mostly, I'd shop on the Internet,'' she says. ''Shopping was instant gratification. Just like the drugs.'' Bleeth stopped seeing friends. She often had bloody noses. ''And if I was sniffling, my publicist would tell people I had sinus problems, which I do.'' By the end of 1999, she ''looked like an alien,'' she says. Normally a size 6, she was down to size 0. In July 2000, she collapsed at a Glamour photo shoot. Five months later she checked into Promises rehab center in Malibu. There she met Paul Cerrito, a club owner in Michigan. Life was looking up. Two weeks later, she was taking cocaine again. Then, in September 2001, she drove off a highway in Detroit while high on cocaine and hit a median. As part of a plea agreement, she must serve two years of probation and submit to regular drug tests. Bleeth spent the next few months after the accident at Paul's mother's house in Michigan, staying sober and eating. She gained 20 pounds. In August 2002, she and Paul were married in Santa Barbara. It's been a struggle, Bleeth writes, but she realizes that ''consciously trying to stay off drugs is now part of my life and always will be.''
- Josie on "The Division"
(From Mike Barnett)Josie Davis (Laurie Williams) is guest starring on the Lifetime Original drama, "The Division." This Sunday at 8 p.m.
- FOX Sets Date for 'Baywatch' Movie
We know the date for the "Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding" movie. We know a gaggle of former cast members are coming back for the film. The only question that remains is this: Will the bride wear white, or one of those red lifeguard swimsuits? Viewers can find out Friday, Feb. 28, when FOX airs the "Baywatch" movie that reunites 15 of the show's old cast members, including David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson, Yasmine Bleeth, Jeremy Jackson, John Allen Nelson and Gena Lee Nolin. "It was great having 15 of us back, and it felt terrific working together again," Hasselhoff says. "Everyone checked their ego at the door and we had a ball." The movie's plot involves Hasselhoff's Mitch getting ready to get married in, you guessed it, Hawaii. A number of his former lifeguard colleagues fly to the island state to attend the wedding. An old nemesis (Cary Horiyuki-Tagawa), however, is out to crash the party. "Baywatch" was hugely popular as a syndicated series in the 1990s, particularly overseas.
- Titans Guest Star Now In Daytime
(From Mike Barnett)Former Titans guest star Brittney Powell (Maureen Keller, Peter's paid love interest on Titans) can now be seen on ABC's General Hospital. Brittney plays a call-girl that Luke Specner believes to be a young Laura.
- Off Centre Cancelled
Jason George's (Scott, Titans) WB sitcom "Off Centre." has stopped production and it will leave the air after November sweeps.
- Pam, Yasmine etc... Beached for More "Baywatch"
Surf's up for Pamela Anderson. The hepatitis C-stricken blonde bombshell has agreed to get jiggly with it one last time and appear in Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding, Fox's two-hour TV movie that will reunite Baywatch beauties both old and new with series star David Hasselhoff. Anderson's participation in the project had been seen as key for producers. She was easily the show's most popular character, but, according to various published reports, she was demanding big bucks to head back to the beach for the reunion. Between those purportedly outrageous salary demands and her health issues (she's planning to put her career on hold in December to begin aggressive treatment for her hepatitis), it seemed unlikely the 35-year-old would reprise her career-launching role as the barely bikini'd C.J. Parker, a part she played for five years on the sun-lovin' series. Somehow, though, Fox execs were reportedly able to persuade the show's other stars to take pay cuts in order to bring the former Playboy pinup aboard. It's not known how much Anderson will receive, but it's likely to be a plus-size paycheck. Of course, Anderson had time on her hand since the cancellation of her post-Baywatch syndicated series, V.I.P., earlier this year. With Anderson on board, and fellow stars Hasselhoff and Yamine Bleeth cleaned up after respective stints in rehab battling substance abuse, the long-delayed Baywatch telefilm was back on. (A thong-alicious reunion flick had been in the works last summer under the Beach Party Bingo-esque title Baywatch Blast but was delayed after Fox had trouble corralling enough key lifesavers.) In addition to Anderson, Hasselhoff and Bleeth, the reunion movie will feature more than a dozen returning hard bodies, among them starlets Gena Lee Nolin, Carmen Electra, Nicole Eggert, Alexandra Paul, Brande Boderick, Angelica Bridges and Stacy Kamano, as well as the hunky likes of Billy Warlock, John Allen Nelson, Jeremy Jackson, Michael Bergin and Jason Momoa. Noticeably MIA are onetime stars Parker Stevenson and Donna D'Errico, along with former cast stalwarts David Charvet and David Chokachi, all of whom apparently couldn't come to terms on contracts. "They're bringing back cast members from each era," Paul explains to USA Today. Paul's character, Stephanie, was killed off in an explosion in 1997, but in a Twin Peaks-like twist, she will be magically resurrected for the reunion. Another character back from the dead is Hasselhoff's hairy-chested lead lifeguard Mitch Buchannon, who was seemingly blown to bits in 2000's season-ending episode of Baywatch Hawaii. The skimpy plot of the reunion flick goes something like this: Anderson's C.J. opens up a beachside bar-restaurant and her old buddy Mitch plans on tying the knot with Neely (Nolin). But trouble washes up when a woman named Allison (Paul)--who underwent cosmetic surgery to look like Stephanie--vies with Neely for Mitch's attention. "I punch her, then it gets wet and crazy," Nolin tells USA Today. Adds Paul: "We go down a slide during the fight. It's the Joan Collins-Linda Evans catfight of the 21st century." (Sounds like they better start working on those Emmy speeches now.) Former Big Kahuna Hasselhoff tells Entertainment Weekly that he and his swimsuit-clad cohorts are flab-free despite years off the beach patrol. "Everyone looks better," Hasselhoff says. "They're thin and cut. In fact, I'm already on my second workout today." Hasselhoff helped create Baywatch as an NBC series in 1989. The show didn't find an audience until it shifted into syndication, where it made stars of Anderson, Electra and Bleeth. Producers even touted the series, once broadcast in more than 140 countries, as the most popular show in the world. Nielsens began sagging, and after a move from Malibu to Hawaii failed to juice ratings, the show folded for good in 2001. Baywatch: Hawaii Wedding is currently shooting in Hawaii and expected to wrap later this week, is set to air on Fox during February sweeps.
- Yasmine To Do Baywatch Movie
I just had on Extra (Aug 26, 2002) and they said after a short honeymoon in Hawaii, Yasmine (ex-Heather, Titans) will be staying there to do the FOX Baywatch TV movie.
- Yasmine Married
Former "Baywatch" babe YASMINE BLEETH has married PAUL CERRITO, a source tells ET. The very private nuptials are believed to have taken place at the exclusive Bacara resort in Santa Barbara, CA, with about 50 guests in attendance. Cerrito is the same man with whom Bleeth was arrested last September for cocaine possession. Bleeth pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to two years' probation. She must also submit to regular drug tests. The couple reportedly met while they were both in a Malibu, CA, rehab center.
- John Barrowman to Perform in Milwaukee
(From Margaret de Boer)John Barrowman to Perform in Milwaukee at STACKNER CABARET (108 East Wells Street, Milwaukee.) John Barrowman's performances are on August 2nd at :00 pm and August 3rd at 6:00 and 9:00 pm. John Barrowman visits Milwaukee fresh from his glowing reviews as "Bobby" in "Company," part of the Kennedy Center's Salute to Sondheim. John recently co-starred on Broadway opposite Carol Burnett in "Putting it Together" as well as starring in both the New York and London productions of "Sunset Blvd."
- 90210 Vixen Meets Male Hustler!
When last seen on TV, Josie Davis was stealing Ingo Rademacher (General Hospital) from her alcoholic sister on NBC's defunct prime-time soap, Titans. But that's not the role fans know her best for. "Oh, it's Charles in Charge, definitely," she tells TV Guide Online, laughing. "Depending on how I'm wearing my hair that day, sometimes it's Beverly Hills, 90210. "Sometimes," the 29-year-old actress adds, "big, strong men will come up and say, 'Don't tell anybody I just said this, but I recognize you from The Young and the Restless.' I get it all." Fortunately, Davis's days as just another soap starlet or "that girl Scott Baio used to baby-sit on TV" are numbered. She recently wrapped filming Sonny, starring Spider-Man's James Franco, Brenda Blethyn and Mena Suvari. "It's Nicolas Cage's directorial debut," she enthuses. "I'm so excited." We're more excited by the film's sordid premise: "James Franco plays a whore," Davis reveals. "He's raised by his mother [Blethyn] to be a whore for rich women. He goes away to the army and then comes back and decides he doesn't want to do it anymore. He decides to be, like, a square. So he meets me, a church-going girl — but let's just say, I'm not all that I seem to be." Interestingly, Matt Dillon was slated to play Sonny's title hustler, until he dropped out and was replaced by the lesser known (but much younger) Franco. Is Cage taking a risk by not casting a bigger-name leading man? "Nic takes chances," Davis says. "He's so impulsive and funny. Working with James Franco was great, and I thank Nic so much for letting me do this."
- Jason George
Jason George (ex-Michael, Sunset Beach) reaches new heights in the family-friendly feature The Climb. George is a hotshot climber who pairs with an unlikely partner to scale one monstrous mountain. Peter Parros (Ben, ATWT) helped write and produce the film. The Climb airs on WPIX New York on June 8 at 5 pm/ET.
- Television Critics Association awards nominees
The awards are given for shows that aired new episodes between May 23, 2001 and May 22, 2002. The TCA awards will be handed out Saturday, July 20, during the association's summer press tour in Pasadena, Calif.
Career Achievement Carol Burnett Bill Cosby Larry Gelbart Aaron Spelling Mike Wallace
- Jack Wagner
Melrose Place/Titans/General Hospital alum Jack Wagner will host a new golf-themed interview show for ESPN titled Off Course. It debuts June 11 at 7:30 pm/ET.
- Bleeth to Wed
Former BAYWATCH babe YASMINE BLEETH is getting married - to a bar owner who has just come out of jail after serving time on drugs offences. The actress, who is battling drug problems following her arrest for cocaine possession last year, is planning to wed PAUL CERRITO later this summer. Cerrito, who was with Bleeth the night she was arrested - and was sentenced to six months in jail in Michigan for breaching probation for previous drug offences - popped the question to the actress upon his release. A thrilled Bleeth is now sporting the six-carat diamond engagement ring Cerrito presented to her. Future mother-in-law VICKI CERRITO says, "She's so happy - this time she's high on love, not drugs. Her arrest was a blessing in disguise because she was able to get the treatment that helped her to finally kick her drug use." Bleeth is currently serving a two-year probationary period.
- John Barrowman Performs in Concert at Kennedy Center June 11
Former Putting It Together actor John Barrowman — who currently stars in the Kennedy Center's production of Stephen Sondheim's Company — will perform in concert at the Center's Millennium Stage in June. Barrowman, who stars as Robert (Bobby) in the mounting of Sondheim's Company through June 29, will offer an evening of song at the Millennium Stage on June 11 at 6 PM. Barrowman starred on Broadway in the Sondheim revue Putting It Together and also made a guest appearance in the New York company of Sunset Boulevard, repeating his London role as Joe Gillis. Barrowman's other London theatrical credits include Grease!, Anything Goes, The Phantom of the Opera, The Fix, Miss Saigon and Beauty and the Beast. He also starred on two U.S. television programs, "Central Park West" and "Titans." Performances at the Millennium Stage are free to the public and begin at 6 PM. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is located in Washington, D.C., at 2700 F. Street. For more information, go to www.kennedy-center.org.
- Yasmine On V.I.P.
Look for Yasmine Bleeth (Heather, Titans) on this weekends (April 20-21) episode of Pamela Anderson's V.I.P. Check your local listings.
- Off Centre's P. Diddy Sendup
As hip-hop star Status Quo on the WB buddy comedy Off Centre, Jason George seems awfully familiar. "I'm somewhere between P. Diddy and Tupac on the show," he winks to TV Guide Online. "But you see the P. Diddy flavor — I'm forever in a jumpsuit!" You may've also seen George on Aaron Spelling's prime-time soap Titans, or on the producer's equally-defunct daytime sudser. "I still get recognized for Sunset Beach anytime I'm abroad," the 30-year-old says. "My wife and I were in London and France this summer and we got stopped all over the place. I didn't know it was still on in France, and we were there when the last episode aired. She was like, 'Okay, we need to get the hell out of Paris because this is too much.'" Sunset fans went gaga for George's infamous love triangle, in which a crazy vixen impregnated his girlfriend with another man's child — using a turkey baster! "We never even say turkey baster anymore!" he laughs. "Every Thanksgiving holiday, somebody says, 'Hey Jason...' and I say, 'Don't do it. Don't bring it up.'" Having wrapped Off Centre's first season, the actor's glad for a less controversial workplace. "The cool part about it is, beyond any other show I've ever done, everybody is cool," he smiles. "That's a rare thing. [Co-star] John Cho is my boy; he's my partner in crime. We just get stupid together. So I'm happy as hell that not only do I get the paycheck, but I can enjoy the people I work with."
- Yasmine On E.T.
Look for Yasmine on Entertainment Tonight tomorrow (April 17, 2002), She's on there to promote an upcoming episode of Pamela Anderson's V.I.P. in which she co-stars.
- Ingo Items Up For Bid
There are several Ingo Rademacher (& other GH cast member) items listed on Ebay for sale within the next three days (Ending April 9). This special Ebay auction is to benefit The Children's Cancer Foundation. You may see these items by clicking here
- Fox to Air 'Baywatch' Reunion Movie
HONOLULU (AP) - "Baywatch" star David Hasselhoff's stalled reunion movie of the lifeguard television drama has hit smooth sailing. "We've got a TV movie for Fox," Hasselhoff said Sunday. "It's a two-hour (show) that'll air in (November) sweeps. ... Right now we're trying to put the pieces together to bring it to Hawaii." Hasselhoff, the movie's producer, said the cast will feature 20 actors from the "Baywatch" and "Baywatch Hawaii" shows. "It's basically just kind of an opportunity to get everybody together and have some fun here in Hawaii," he said. Hasselhoff hopes to begin three weeks of filming on July 8. Last October, Hasselhoff said he was having trouble assembling the cast for the movie. At the time, a Fox network representative said the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks had caused problems with travel and hotel deals. The original "Baywatch" series was filmed in Los Angeles for nine years before relocating to Hawaii and getting a new name in 1998. Hasselhoff made only occasional appearances after the move, and the series was canceled in February 2001.
- Back To The Beach
The on-again, off-again Baywatch reunion movie is on again. Fox has given producer-star David Hasselhoff the green light for a two-hour telepic slated for November sweeps. It remains unclear which Baywatch castmembers will be returning for the flick.
- Clockstoppers
Jason George (ex-Scott, Titans/ex-Michael, Sunset Beach) plays Richard in Clockstoppers, the story of a boy who figures out how to accelerate time. The movie is directed by Jonathan Frakes, husband of General Hospital's Genie Francis (Laura). Both films open nationally on March 29.
- Barrowman Does NYC Cabaret
Broadway, West End and TV heartthrob John Barrowman, whose voice is as toned as the rest of him, makes his New York City cabaret debut at Arci's Place, Feb. 20-March 2, singing Reflections From Broadway. Expected in the new show, directed by Barry Kelinbort and written by Bruce Vilanch, are stories and songs from the life and career of the thirtysomething Scotland-born, American-raised Barrowman. He co-starred on Broadway in Putting It Together, the revue of songs by Stephen Sondheim. This summer at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, he'll play Bobby in Sondheim and George Furth's Company as part of the six-show Sondheim Celebration there. Reflections From Broadway will include songs by Sondheim, Andrew Lloyd Webber and more. Piano and bass are part of the evening. On TV, Barrowman starred in the nighttime soaps Titans and Central Park West. He played Joe Gillis in Sunset Boulevard opposite Betty Buckley in London and New York. In London, his roles have included Chris in Miss Saigon, Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera and Billy in Anything Goes, opposite Elaine Paige. He earned an Olivier Award nomination starring in the musical, The Fix. Barrowman stars in the adventure-thriller film, Megalodon, about a hungry prehistoric shark, to be released later this year. Tickets for Reflections From Broadway (which is also the title of his recent album) are $30 with a $15 food/drink minimum. Arci's is at 450 Park Avenue between 30th and 31st streets. Shows play 8 PM Wednesday-Friday and 8:30 PM and 11 PM Saturday. Reservations are strongly suggested. Call (212) 532-4370.
- Titans Airing In Canada
For my fellow Canadians, Titans is repeating here on MenTV. You need digital cable or satellite service to get the channel and I'm not sure if they are showing all 13 episodes or just the first 11 that aired here on NBC/CTV already. At any rate you can look it up in the listings at tvguidelive.com
- Trapped: Beneath the Snow
Aubrey Dollar (Marina, GL), Jack Wagner (ex-Frisco, GH/ex-Peter, Titans) and former-90210-er Gabrielle Carteris battle the big avalanche in Trapped: Beneath the Snow, premiering on Pax TV on Feb. 1 at 8 pm/ET.
- Elizabeth Bogush On Scrubs
Scrubs: My Drug Buddy (Tuesday January 22, 2002 on NBC) A new love interest entangles J.D.; a rivalry intensifies between Cox and Turk; a tenuous, ride-sharing arrangement ties Carla to Kelso. Alex: Elizabeth Bogush. Janitor: Neil Flynn. Nurse Roberts: Aloma Wright.
- Bleeth Refuses to Dump Her Druggie Lover
Former BAYWATCH babe YASMIN BLEETH is standing by her man - even though he's a threat to her new sober lifestyle. The 33-year-old actress was given two years probation on a felony cocaine-possession charge in Michigan on Wednesday. But though she has promised to kick her narcotics habit and has been drug-free since her arrest last September for possessing less than 25 grams of cocaine and for driving while impaired, she isn't kicking out her fiancé, who is in jail on drugs charges. PAUL CERITO is currently in a Michigan prison for being a three-time habitual offender on cocaine charges. Bleeth says, "I'm absolutely staying with him, especially now. I absolutely am."
- Clean Bill Of Health
Überproducer Aaron Spelling is cancer free, Variety columnist Army Archerd reports. Last August, Spelling underwent radiation therapy for a cancerous lesion in his throat.
- Bleeth Gets Probation in Drug Bust
These days, you have a couple of choices if you want to see Yasmine Bleeth--she'll either be running down the Malibu beach in Baywatch reruns or sitting in front of a surban Detroit judge in the far more captivating series we like to call Celebrity Courtwatch. Too bad for her the latter isn't fiction. Bleeth, 33, was sentenced Wednesday in Michigan to two years' probation on a felony cocaine-possession charge. There wasn't much drama at the courthouse, though--to avoid jail time, the actress worked out a deal last fall in which she agreed to go on probation, submit to regular drug tests, do 100 hours of community service and pay court costs. The judge just made things official Wednesday. A puffy-looking Bleeth, dressed in a light brown sweater and dark pants, nodded as the judge ran through the terms of her probation before briefly addressing the court. "I have been sober four months. I am sorry. I think that's all I want to say right now. Thank you," she said. Bleeth left court without speaking to reporters. She will soon be heading back to her home California. Bleeth pleaded guilty in November to possessing less than 25 grams of cocaine and to driving while impaired after she was caught with cocaine in her pocketbook following a September car accident. In exchange for her plea, the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office dropped one of her two felony coke possession charges. The actress, whose recent credits included Nash Bridges and the short-lived NBC soap Titans, was busted September 12 after she and 31-year-old companion Paul Cerrito were in a car accident while driving on Interstate 94 in Romulus, Michigan. The pair were heading to Detroit Metropolitan Airport when her car pulled off the highway and wound up on a median. No one was injured, but police later searched her purse and found four syringes containing a liquid form of cocaine and a small plastic bag with cocaine residue. Then, a day after her arrest (and after she spent the night in jail), police obtained a search warrant for her hotel room and allegedly found more cocaine and narcotics paraphernalia. Cerrito was charged with one count of possession of less than 25 grams of cocaine and a count of being a habitual offender-third offense--Michigan's version of the three-strikes law. Bleeth's lawyer, Jerry Sabbota, says the actress was "happy" with the plea deal, noting that her record will be cleared of any felonies after she fulfills the terms of her probation. "When all is said and done she'll have a traffic ticket on her record," he said after Wednesday's hearing. Although she is not currently in rehab, Sabbota has previously said Bleeth is undergoing psychotherapy from the founder of the Malibu-based Promises rehab facility, where Bleeth and stars such as Paula Poundstone (news - web sites), Ben Affleck, Charlie Sheen and Tim Allen have all sought treatment.
- Law & Order
Former Baywatch babe Yasmine Bleeth was sentenced Wednesday to two years probation on a cocaine-possession charge. In November, Bleeth pleaded guilty to possessing less than 25 grams of cocaine and to driving while impaired. Cops discovered the drugs in her purse while investigating a car accident on Sept. 12 in a Detroit suburb. As part of her plea deal, the 33-year-old actress also must undergo regular drug tests, serve 100 hours of community service and pay court costs.
- Elizabeth Bogush On Scrubs
Scrubs: My Blind Date (Tuesday January 8, 2002 on NBC) A hectic day in the ICU finds Cox needling Elliot and J.D., who's also ordered by Kelso to treat a patient injured in a fall at the hospital. Alex: Elizabeth Bogush. Mike Davis: Michael McDonald. Lawyer: Sam Lloyd. Nurse Roberts: Aloma Wright. Janitor: Neil Flynn. Doug: Johnny Kastl. Scrubs: My Balancing Act (Tuesday January 15, 2002 on NBC) Juggling patient care and a new love interest flusters J.D.; combatting Kelso amuses Cox. Carrot Top appears as himself. Alex: Elizabeth Bogush. Todd: Robert Maschio. Lawyer: Sam Lloyd. Doug: Johnny Kastl. Nurse Roberts: Aloma Wright
- Perry King On Spin City
Spin City: Mother, Where Art Thou? (Tuesday January 8, 2002 on ABC) Romantic entanglements perplex the Mayor and Charlie, who's now dating the daughter of a charmer (Perry King) who's dating Caitlin.
- Elizabeth Bogush Update
(From Elizabeth Bogush)Hey, it's Elizabeth! Just thought I'd let you guys know, I'm doing a recurring role on NBC's "Scrubs". I will play Alex, a social worker at the hospital and a love interest for J.D. (Zach Braff). The episodes will air sometime in January. Just wanted to keep you updated!- Liz
- Yasmine Bleeth Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Possession
Former "Baywatch" star Yasmine Bleeth will likely be granted probation Friday (Nov. 30) after pleading guilty to possession of less than 25 grams of cocaine and driving while impaired. "I was driving under the influence of narcotics. Cocaine, your honor," Bleeth, 33, told Michigan District Court Judge Karen Fort Hood. Bleeth entered a not guilty plea in a court appearance two weeks ago but decided to accept the plea deal. The plea bargain stipulates Bleeth, who also starred in CBS' "Nash Bridges" and NBC's "Titans," will serve two years' probation and undergo regular drug tests, according to the AP. She could have faced up to four years in prison on the possession charge. Bleeth was arrested Sept. 12 in Romulus, Mich., a Detroit suburb, after she drove her car into the median of Interstate 94. Neither she nor her male passenger was hurt. Police found what they believed to be cocaine in her purse. A subsequent search of her hotel room turned up additional evidence against her. Bleeth, who lives in Los Angeles, was in the Detroit area visiting relatives of the man in the car with her. Police have declined to release his name.
- Casper & Catherine
(From Page Six)Catherine Oxenberg and hubby Casper Van Dien trying again. Baby Maya was born last month, mama turned 40, Casper's decided to stop chasing and, although still in his own apartment, Catherine's taking him back.
- Jack Wagner tees up for ESPN
NEW YORK (Variety) - ESPN, striving to broaden its audience by producing more sports programming with an entertainment angle, has signed a deal with actor Jack Wagner (``Melrose Place'') to host a showbiz golf show called ``Off Course.'' The format is still being worked on, but the idea is for Wagner, an accomplished golfer, to tape a round of golf with celebrities from both entertainment and sports. The matches would take up the first part of the half-hour weekly show, with the second half devoted to an interview of the celebrity by Wagner, focusing on their golf games. There's no timetable yet for an ESPN air date of ``Off Course,'' said Mike Antinoro, ESPN's senior coordinating producer.
- Yaz Due In Court
Yasmine Bleeth could face some serious time for her September drug bust. The 33-year-old former Baywatch pinup pleaded innocent Friday to felony drug charges after she was allegedly caught with cocaine in her pocketbook following a Detroit-area car accident. The actress appeared before Judge Tina Green in a Romulus, Michigan, courtroom, where she was arraigned on two felony charges of cocaine possession (less than 25 grams) and a misdemeanor count of operating a vehicle under the influence of narcotics. The felony charges each carry a maximum sentence of four years in jail and a fine of up to $25,000, while the misdemeanor carries a maximum 93-day sentence, or up to a $500 fine or 45 days of community service. Bleeth, who most recently starred on Nash Bridges and Aaron Spelling's short-lived soap Titans, was busted September 12 after she and a companion (31-year-old Detroit resident Paul Cerrito) were in a car accident while driving on Interstate 94. She and Cerrito were heading to the nearby Detroit Metropolitan Airport when her car pulled off the highway and wound up on a median. No one was injured, but police--believing Bleeth appeared intoxicated--took her into custody. Cops later searched her purse and allegedly found four syringes containing a liquid form of cocaine and a small plastic bag with cocaine residue, according to lab tests that police received back this week. Bleeth spent the night in jail, and she's currently free on $10,000 bond. A day after her arrest, police obtained a warrant to search her room at a Romulus Doubletree Hotel. "More cocaine and narcotics paraphernalia were found in the room," says police Commander David Early. Bleeth's lawyer, Larry Shulman, said Friday that "her matter will be resolved when she goes to court." "The only question I really have is that if she wasn't who she is, would anyone care?" he asked. "That's unfortunate." Cerrito, meanwhile, has not yet been arraigned, but he also faces a felony cocaine possession charge and an additional "habitual offender" count. If convicted, Cerrito could face double the maximum four-year sentence. He's currently being held in an Oakland County, Michigan, jail on other charges. Bleeth apparently met Cerrito while staying at Promises, the Malibu-based rehab facility where celebs such as Paula Poundstone, Ben Affleck, Charlie Sheen and Tim Allen have all sought treatment for drug or alcohol abuse.
- Bleeth Charged with Drug Possession
ROMULUS, Mich. (AP) - Former ``Baywatch'' star Yasmine Bleeth was charged Friday with possession of cocaine. Bleeth was charged in 34th District Court with two counts of possession of cocaine, a four-year felony, and one count of operating a vehicle under the influence of narcotics, a misdemeanor. The 33-year-old pleaded innocent and was released on a $10,000 personal bond, police said in a statement. A hearing is set for Nov. 30. An assistant for Bleeth agent Larry Taube said he had no comment on the case. Bleeth spent the night in jail here after patrol officers found what they suspected was cocaine in her purse during their investigation of a car accident on Sept. 12. Police said Friday's charges also stem from a subsequent search of Bleeth's hotel room. Police said Bleeth drove off Interstate 94 and onto the freeway's median strip. The other person in the vehicle was a male passenger whom police declined to identify. No one was injured in the accident. The 31-year-old passenger is charged with one count of possession of cocaine and being a habitual offender-third offense. The man was from the Detroit area, and he and Bleeth were in town to visit his relatives, police said. Bleeth, who lives in Los Angeles, also has appeared in television's ``Nash Bridges.''
- Friars Club Honors Aaron Spelling
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (AP) - The Friars Club of California honored TV 90210,'' ``Charlie's Angels,'' ``Dynasty'' and ``Fantasy Island.'' Spelling received a lifetime achievement award on Wednesday for the thousands of hours of television entertainment he has provided to audiences worldwide, and for his philanthropic efforts in the community. Spelling's wife, Candy, and children, Tori and Randy, attended the event. Tori Spelling co-starred as Donna Martin on ``Beverly Hills, 90210'' throughout its 10-year run. Talk show host Larry King served as master of ceremonies and comedians Don Rickles, Norm Crosby and Red Buttons performed skits. Also attending were Sidney Poitier, Milton Berle and Connie Stevens. Proceeds from the event will go to the Friars Charitable Foundation, City of Hope National Medical Center and the Sept. 11 Fund for victims of last month's terrorist attacks.
- Casper Baby News
Casper Van Dien (ex-Ty, OLTL) and his wife, Catherine Oxenberg (ex-Amanda, Dynasty) recently welcomed their first child together, a baby girl named Maya.
- Baywatch Reunion Goes Belly-Up
David Hasselhoff's planned Baywatch reunion movie is in desperate need of CPR. Scheduled to begin filming this week in Hawaii, the Fox TV pic — tentatively titled Baywatch Blast — has been pushed back to spring, if it happens at all, TV Guide Online has learned. The reason? Well, that all depends on who you ask. A Fox spokesperson says the events of Sept. 11 caused the delay. "The special deals the production company had with the airlines and the hotels couldn't be fulfilled because of what happened," the rep explains. "And [some] castmembers felt uneasy being out of the continental United States at this time." However, a source tells TV Guide Online that many actors refused to sign on the dotted line after they learned that Hasselhoff — the franchise's executive producer and star — offered "favored nations" contracts to some of Baywatch's more popular alums. "There were three payment tiers," reveals an insider close to the negotiations. "The top was reserved just for [Hasselhoff], and there was a middle tier for Pam Anderson, Yasmine Bleeth, Gena Lee Nolin, David Chokachi, Erika Eleniak and Nicole Eggert offering them $100,000." Bleeth — who is said to earn $400,000 for her TV movies — was among those who balked at the salary. (Of course, that was before her recent drug bust.) Hasselhoff confirms that while all the show's major beach babes and bums were invited back for the group swim, most contracts went unsigned. "We [had] 25 castmembers on our wish list, but then the budget was way too big," he explains of the project, which was to serve as the launch pad for a new Fox series. "So, now I'm trying to get the big girls like Pamela and Yasmine to come back and go to work where we gave them their start." Another hurdle facing Hasselhoff: Baywatch Blast was to find the lifeguards gathering to mourn the death of his character, Mitch Buchannon. Yet, Mitch was killed off in 1999 when the show was rechristened Baywatch Hawaii. "Yeah, but no one was watching then," he jokes. "We're going to go back to before Mitch gets blown up to find out what led to that." As it is, word has it that Mitch will — surprise! — turn up alive anyway. Another deceased character will not be so lucky: Alexandra Paul, whose Lt. Stephanie Holden was fatally whacked with a ship mast in 1997, has been offered a cameo — as a ghost. As tantalizing as these plot details sound, the fact remains: Without any star power, Baywatch Blast is going to be a bust. On the bright side, several actors who fall under the "bottom tier" pay scale — including John Allen Nelson (Cort) and Jeremy Jackson, who played Mitch's son Hobie — are ready to ride the wave. And there's even more good news. Cracks the onetime Knight Rider: "I spoke to Parker Stevenson, and it looks like he might be coming back." It just goes to show, if you stay on the shore long enough, there's no telling who might wash up!
- Casper Rumor
Catherine Oxenberg is pregnant. This is nice. However, her New Jersey actor-husband Casper Van Dien just moved out. This is not so nice
- ‘Baywatch Blast’ fails to set sail
Just when it looked like "Baywatch" lifeguards were heading back to the beach, the $5.5-million movie-of-the-week production of "Baywatch Blast" slated to film on Oahu next month is dead in the water. Fox officials declined comment, though "Baywatch Blast" executive Frank Conway confirmed that the two-hour TV movie is canceled for undisclosed reasons. According to sources, Fox was concerned about former "Baywatch" star Pamela Anderson Lee being unsigned, Yasmine Bleeth's involvement with the Michigan police regarding a one-car accident on Sept. 12 -- Bleeth could be charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs and possession of a narcotic -- and other production issues. Conway yesterday notified the Hawaii and Honolulu state film offices that the movie was canceled. "Baywatch Blast" was being written and produced by Doug Schwartz and Michael Berk who along with Greg Bonann, created the original "Baywatch" some 11 years ago. Only Berk and Schwartz, who declined comment, were involved in the "Baywatch Blast" production. The decade-old, weekly hourlong lifeguard drama was canceled in February, but the reunion show was to include many of the original cast members, including, David Hasselhoff, Donna D'Errico, Carmen Electra, Gena Lee Nolin, Alexandra Paul, Nicole Eggert, Lee and Bleeth. Reached in California, Bonann said the cancellation "had nothing to do with the terrorist tragedies or production costs." "The problem was with the script and difficulty in signing the actors," he said. "This was not a problem caused by filming in Hawaii but what was happening on this end." "Baywatch Blast" was a joint effort between Lionsgate Television with Schwartz and Berk, and Fox Television. At its peak, "Baywatch" aired in more than 140 countries. The series is still broadcast five days a week on cable and two days a week on first run. Faced with rising production costs and dwindling ratings, Baywatch in 1999 relocated from California to Hawaii. The show lasted two more seasons.
- Yaz Story on E.T.
Tonight (Wednesday September 26) on Entertainment Tonight they are doing a story on Yasmine's drug troubles. Check your local listings for the air time near you.
- Bleeth's Binge
Yasmine Bleeth reportedly was on a 36-hour cocaine binge with the new boyfriend she met in rehab when she was arrested last week. The former "Baywatch" and "Nash Bridges" beauty was busted after cops found four syringes and what appeared to be cocaine in her purse, after she swerved her rental car off the road in Romulus, Mich. Star magazine reports that Bleeth was driving around boyfriend Paul Cerrito, who met her at Promises, a celeb rehab in Malibu, Calif. Aside from being a former drug addict, Bleeth's new beau has a less-than-savory family business: his mom, Vicki, runs Jon-Jon's, a strip club in Warren, Mich.
- Yasmine Bleeth Facing Drug Charges
Yasmine Bleeth may be trading in her Baywatch bikini for a jail-house jumpsuit. The actress is facing possible drug charges after allegedly being caught with cocaine in her pocketbook following a car accident, Detroit-area police say. Bleeth, 33, who did a stint in rehab last year for undisclosed substance abuse, spent Wednesday night in jail at the Romulus, Michigan, Police Department. The former Baywatch pinup, who recently starred in Nash Bridges and the short-lived night-time soap Titans, was involved in a one-car accident at about 10:10 p.m., says Commander David Early. Bleeth and a friend were driving on Interstate 94, heading to the nearby Detroit Metropolitan Airport, when her car left the highway and wound up on the median. Neither Bleeth nor her male passenger was injured in the crash. The responding officers said Bleeth acted intoxicated but, according Early, she did appear to be under the influence of alcohol. "They conducted field sobriety tests, which she did not pass and they decided to take her into custody," Early says. The cops searched Bleeth's purse and found four syringes containing what police suspect was a liquid form of cocaine, as well as a small plastic bag containing cocaine residue, Early says. Per local procedure, the police obtained a search warrant to draw a blood sample, which was done at a hospital and sent to a police lab along with the syringes and baggie. Early says no charges will be filed until the lab tests come back, which could take "a minimum of a few weeks." If the lab tests come back positive, Bleeth could be charged with misdemeanor DUI, and felongy drug posession, which carries a one- to seven-year prison sentence. Early declined to identify Bleeth's male companion, only to say the two were in town visiting his relatives and were on their way to the airport for a flight back to Los Angeles, where she lives. (Bleeth is reportedly dating a Detroit nightclub owner.) Her companion doesn't face any charges. Bleeth--who was supposed to fly out of Detroit on Tuesday, but was stranded after the hijack attacks--was released on her own recognizance Thursday morning. Calls to her publicist Friday were not immediately returned.
- Jason George Sitcom Set To Debut
(From Joe Gonga)Jason Winston George who was the Chandler's friend and coworker on Titans is in the new WB comedy "Off Centre" airing Sundays on the WB starting October 7. Check it out at the wb.com website.
- New Kevin Zegers Poem
Nela has sent us a poem about Kevin Zegers (ex-Ethan, Titans). If your one of his dedicated followers be sure to check it our here!
- Sharing a dream
Click the title to read the Joilet Herald article on John Barrowman (ex-Peter, Titans)
- ‘Baywatch’ returning to make TV movie
The $5.5 million production will star many past cast members, including David Hasselhoff. "Baywatch" is rolling back onto Hawaii's shores. The decade-old lifeguard television drama that was canceled in February after relocating here in 1998 under the moniker "Baywatch Hawaii" will return as a two-hour movie-of-the-week called "Baywatch Blast." The TV movie will feature many of the most recent and original cast members, including the show's most visible actor, David Hasselhoff, production officials said. The $5.5 million production by Lionsgate Television in association with Fox Television will film on Oahu in October before shifting to Los Angeles. The show will air during February sweeps on Fox Television. The production crew will begin set preparation in Hawaii early next month. "Baywatch Blast" will be based at the Hawaii Film Studio at Diamond Head. Exterior filming will take place throughout Oahu, including at the Haleiwa set built by the city for "Baywatch Hawaii," said Doug Schwartz, executive producer and writer of the TV movie. Schwartz and partner Michael Berk, along with Greg Bonann, created "Baywatch" 11 years ago. However, only Schwartz and Berk are involved in this production. Bonann is "not involved in any aspect," Schwartz emphasized. Bonann, executive producer of the show in Hawaii, confirmed he is not involved but declined to elaborate. Original cast members scheduled to appear so far include Alexandra Paul, Gena Lee Nolin, Nicole Eggert, Yasmine Bleeth, Donna D'Errico, Traci Bingham and Carmen Electra. Pamela Lee Anderson, who joined the show in its third season, has not confirmed whether she will appear, Schwartz said. Cast members from "Baywatch Hawaii" will include Michael Bergin, Jason Brooks and local actor Stacey Kamano. Baywatch's first-season cast of regulars included Hasselhoff as Mitch Buchannon, Parker Stevenson as Craig Pomeroy, Shawn Weatherly as Jill Riley, Billy Warlock as Eddie Kramer, Erika Eleniak as Shauni McClain, Peter Phelps as Trevor Cole and Brandon Call as Hobie Buchannon. Hasselhoff left the show in its first Hawaii season, in part because of creative differences with producers and the show's owner, Pearson Television. Hasselhoff also said he wanted to pursue new acting ventures. Schwartz, who said the story line is still being developed, said the Hawaii filming would not be possible without sponsorship by the Hilton Hawaiian Village, Hawaiian Airlines and the state. Schwartz would not elaborate on what kind of assistance the state is providing, and state officials could not be reached for comment yesterday. The movie-of-the-week will be the largest "Baywatch" production in the show's history, Schwartz said. Baywatch was conceived in 1980 when Los Angeles County lifeguard Greg Bonann had an idea for a TV show containing "sand, surf and sea rescues." When producer Schwartz married Bonann's sister, the men joined up with executive producer Berk. The two-hour pilot for the series, "Baywatch: Panic at Malibu Pier," aired April 23, 1989, and was immediately picked up by NBC as a weekly series. The first episode aired Sept. 22. The show was canceled in the first season but was given a second chance in syndication with a reshuffled cast. Bonann, who lives in Malibu but has an apartment here, is working on a Hawaii-based action drama.
- New Casper Cover
Casper Dien (ex-Chandler, Titans) and wife Catherine Oxenberg are on the cover of this months Fit Pregnancy Style magazine. The magazine has some great photos as well a interview of Casper & Catherine
- Barrowman on Guiding Light?
(From Larry H.)According to the new issue of "Soap Opera Digest", John Barrowman (ex-Peter, Titans) has read for the important new role of "Adam" on the soap opera "Guiding Light." If John gets this role he can do the soap as well as Broadway.
- Baywatch Revival
Just months after the long-running series's cancellation, Baywatch is being brought back to life in the form of a two-hour Fox TV movie to air during February sweeps. According to Variety, Baywatch Blast will reunite castmembers David Hasselhoff, Alexandra Paul, Gena Lee Nolin, Nicole Eggert, Yasmine Bleeth, Donna D'Errico, Traci Bingham and Carmen Electra. Pamela Anderson, however, remains a question mark. Production on the $5.5 million flick is slated to begin in October.
- Get Well Aaron
PROLIFIC TV producer Aaron Spelling ("Beverly Hills, 90210," "Dynasty," "Charlie's Angels") is said to have been quite ill for the past three months. His wife, Candy, has just canceled several social engagements and has taken Aaron to their Malibu beach house for some peace and quiet.
- Ingo: Lean & Mean
If the recently returned Jax looks leaner and stronger as he swipes Cassadine heirlooms on General Hospital, it's because his portrayer, Ingo Rademacher, has adopted a more holistic diet. "I'm getting into eating nonpolluted foods. Everything has to be organic and nonprocessed," Rademacher shares. His research has led the actor to shun basic supermarket fare. "U.S. cut meat is mostly corn fed, and 60 percent is genetically engineered," he explains. Rademacher has turned to his favorite Californian health food store, Whole Foods, for healthy alternatives. "I buy New Zealand free range grazed meat, and Argentinian as well." Rademacher's new diet doesn't abandon the basics: He is actually eating more servings of his favorite organic choices to maintain his lean physique. Breakfast can be "a handful of nuts and avocados," he explains. "It doesn't make me fat, it makes me skinnier." Rademacher has kicked up his exercise program as he prepares to compete once again in the Nautica Malibu Triathlon benefiting The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. "I've got one coming up in September," he reveals. "I've got to go defend my title. I was first in the [Individual] Celebrity race last year."
- Spelling, Wife Sell 'Angels' House
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Aaron Spelling and his wife are selling the house where the 1976 pilot for the television series ``Charlie's Angels'' was shot. The producer's wife, Candy, oversaw remodeling on the Holmby Hills home, which has a price tag of $9.95 million. The Spellings lived there for 16 years before their nearby 56,500-square-foot chateau, known as The Manor, was completed in 1991. Their former home, built in 1936, has six bedrooms and 10 bathrooms and sits on a 1.5-acre lot. It also has a new kitchen, a tennis court with a viewing area and a master suite with a fireplace. The Spellings' current home is on a six-acre site that once belonged to Bing Crosby. Besides ``Charlie's Angels,'' the 78-year-old Spelling has produced TV series including ``The Love Boat,'' ``Dynasty,'' ``Beverly Hills, 90210'' and ``Melrose Place.''
- Lourdes joins the 'Creek'
``Titans/NYPD Blue/'' alum Lourdes Benedicto (ex-Samantha), who recently played the object of Noah Wyle's affection on ``ER,'' is moving over to ``Dawson's Creek,'' where she is likely to be catching the eye of Joshua Jackson's character, Pacey. Thesp has signed on for six episodes with an option for 13 and possibly a regular gig thereafter. She reports to the ``Creek'' next week.
- Katie Stuart 'Trapped'
(From Joe Gonga)Katie Stuart "Faith" the blonde next door that gave French lessons to Kevin Zeger's Ethan is in an original USA tv movie Tuesday July 24th premiering at 9pm and repeating at 11pm Trapped: An embattled Las Vegas hotel-casino owner (Parker Stevenson) is trapped inside his resort with his daughter (Katie Stuart) and seveal others after an arsonist sets the building ablaze. With Meat Loaf and William McNamara
- "BABY" WATCH?
(From Page Six)Yasmine Bleeth -- the one-time “Baywatch” babe, out strolling the other day in Beverly Hills, had observers wondering if a Baywatch baby might be on the way.
- TNN Emphasizes Pop, Reality, 'Baywatch'
(From Zap2it.com)LOS ANGELES (Zap2it.com) - At its upfront presentation to advertisers in New York Thursday (April 5), TNN bragged that "the next generation of TNN viewers is…getting younger, more active, move vibrant and more free-spending than previous TNN viewers." And what kind of cable programming do you provide such a glowing crop of viewers? "Baywatch," of course. The cable net has acquired the syndicated swimsuit soap (premiering in the fall beginning with an all-day marathon) as well as three branches of the "Star Trek" franchise ("The Next Generation," "Deep Space Nine" and "Voyager" ) and "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation." TNN will also premiere five original series, all with varying reality elements. Filmmakers Chris Cox and Matt Sloan will go from town to town casting locals in such films as "Non-Violent Gladiator" and "Charlie's Middle-Aged Angels" in "Small Shots." Instead of casting real people in staged situations, "Lifegame," meanwhile, puts actors in a real situation when an improv group acts out the life story of an audience member. Piggybacking on the success of Comedy Central's "BattleBots," TNN will air "Robot Wars," an adaptation of a British series that pits American robots against English ones. "Pop Across America" travels the country with Steve Marmel, who delivers his riffs on pop culture from the back of a flatbed truck, while the comedic reality series "Ultimate Revenge" acts out revenge fantasies for people. Vibrant indeed. -Almost Human
- New Project For Van Dien
(From Page Six)Pregnant Catherine Oxenberg, who already has a 9-year-old named India, and hubby Caspar Van Dien who already has two children via Robert Mitchum's granddaughter, off for three months to downtown New Zealand. They'll play mother, daddy and offspring in some "Disney-like family comedy" that so far has no title.
- Paint Your Nails Like Yasmine
The March edition of InStyle magazine that features Julia Roberts on the cover mention's that Yasmine Bleeth (ex-Heather, Titans) uses Nailtiques polish.
- Wagner To Divorce
According to Entertainment Tonight Jack Wagner's (Uncle Jack) wife Kristina has filed for divorce sighting irreconcilable differences as the reason. The pair met on the set on General hospital have been married since 1993 and have two children.
- Casper Has A Baby On The Way
(From Page Six)THE STORK is coming to Catherine Oxenberg, once of "Dynasty," and to her hubby, Casper Van Dien, who you saw in Aaron Spelling's short-lived "Titan." This will be a first for the couple, although Catherine does have another child whose father she has always refused to name. Well, listen, rank has its privileges as they say and after all, Catherine is descended from none other than Catherine the Great of Russia. Catherine's mother is the beautiful Princess Elizabeth of Yugoslavia, now better identified as a constant companion of hotel tycoon Merv Griffin.
- Ingo on Regis
September 03, INGO RADEMACHER (Jax, GH) is a guest on ABC’s Live with Regis and Kelly.
- August TV Schedules
The August TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month. Check out the right hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- Dreamer's Workshop: 'Titans' star, will teach students in 8-day program
Click the title to read the Joilet Herald
- Regis & Kelly
Thursday July 5, 2001 on Live with Regis & Kelly guests include Ingo Rademacher (Jax, GH/ex-David, Titans)
- Baywatch: E! True Hollywood Story
See how David Hasselhoff and his team of sexy lifeguards (Yasmine, Pamela, Gena, David, etc...) made Baywatch one of the most-watched shows in the history of television July 1 on E! and also airs July 2, 12 a.m.
- Late, Late Show
Wednesday July 7, 2001 on The Late, Late Show with Craig Kilbourn guests include Lourdes Benedicto (ex-Samantha, Titans). This is a repeat of her appearance from April.
- At its worst, `Titans' made for the season's best laugh
Click the title to read the KC Star
- The Return of Ingo
GH has announced that Ingo Rademacher’s return as Jax will take place during the week of July 30.
- Wagner At Lemieux Golf Tourney
Shane Rawley shot a 2-under-par 70 Saturday to move two shots ahead of Dan Quinn after two rounds of the Mario Lemieux Celebrity Invitational. Rawley, four shots behind Quinn after the first round, fired the only sub-par round Saturday. Former Cincinnati Reds Catcher Johnny Bench and actor Jack Wagner are three strokes off the lead. Michael Jordan, Dan Marino, John Elway and Charles Barkley are also playing in the tournament.
- 2000-2001 TV Ratings
Titans finished 93rd out of 162 shows this past season. The show Titans was pulled off Mondays for, Mysterious Ways finished 89th.
- New Kevin Zegers Poem
Jennie has sent us a poem about Kevin Zegers (ex-Ethan, Titans). If your one of his dedicated followers be sure to check it our here!
- Jason Winston George Update
(From Joe of TITANS-NBC)Jason Winston George (ex-Scott, Titans) has a new job this fall. WB Sunday 9:30-10:00 p.m. " OFF CENTRE" Hot comedy auteurs Paul and Chris Weitz have stamped their inimitable randy brand of humor on such big-screen hits as " American Pie" and " Antz." Now they're bringing their unique point of view to the small screen for the first time in an unconventional buddy comedy for The WB. Staid and slightly neurotic, Mike is the yin to his British friend Euan's (Sean Maguire) slick, sophisticated and decidedly decadent yang. Former roommates at Oxford, the two move in to a posh New York pad, but their opposing views on the opposite sex are glaring. As each tries to prove that his way is best, peccadilloes, predicaments and pranks force them to examine relationships from the other's viewpoint — which keeps them both off-balance and wondering if the other one isn't right after all. " Off Centre" also stars Lauren Stamile, John Cho, Kimberly Davies and Jason Winston George. The Weitzes serve as executive producers with Danny Zuker (" Just Shoot Me," "Roseanne") for Warner Bros. Television and Dreamworks SKG.
- John Barrowman Update
(From John Barrowman Fan Club)John Barrowman (ex-Peter, Titans) has justed finished an Aaron Spelling pilot for UPN called "Stop At Nothing". LOok for it in the fall.
- New Perry King TV Movie
(From Finchie)Perry King (ex-Richard, Titans) can be seen in a new, original movie, "The Perfect Wife", at 9:00 PM, EDT, May 21, 2001, on the Lifetime cable television channel. He plays a doctor who is maliciously pursued by the sister of a patient who died under his care.
- It's official: Ingo's Back on GH
(From Soap Opera Digest)It's official: INGO RADEMACHER is headed back to General Hospital in the role of Jasper "Jax" Jacks. The actor made his GH debut in February 1999 and quickly became a fan favorite; his on-screen love triangle with VANESSA MARCIL (ex-Brenda) and MAURICE BENARD (Sonny) was one of Port Charles' hottest romantic quagmires. He left the show in August 2000 and landed a part on the short-lived primetime soap Titans. Days of Our Lives was interested in casting Rademacher in the still-vacant role of Colin, but the actor's handlers informed the show that their client was looking to focus on film rather than television. Shortly thereafter, GH Executive Producer JILL FARREN PHELPS was able to persuade Rademacher to reconsider a return to daytime. Viewers can expect to see Jax on-screen in June. Will Marcil follow her former leading man back to Port Charles? Stay tuned!
- RADEMACHER RETURNS TO GH
(From TV Guide)In what will undoubtedly be considered one of the returning engagements of the year, General Hospital has signed fan favorite Ingo Rademacher, to reassume his signature role, Jasper Jacks — better known as Jax — beginning this June, confirms a GH spokesperson. "He's definitely excited, he wouldn't be going back if he wasn't," says Rademacher's publicist. Rademacher joined the GH cast in 1996 and quickly garnered an admiring fan base. Paired with Brenda Barrett (played by Vanessa Marcil), Jax and Brenda became one of daytime's most popular couples. Rademacher left the show last year to join the cast of Aaron Spelling's primetime soap venture, Titans. The show was cancelled after a few airings, leaving the door open for Rademacher's return. Currently, the actor is vacationing in his childhood homeland of Australia. "He really hasn't had a break since he was on the show. He went to Titans, then to pilot season," his publicist explains. "He wanted to go back to Australia to spend some time, which he hadn't done for quite a while." Jax left GH under the premise of finding his lady love. Could Rademacher's imminent return also spark Marcil's return to Port Charles? "She's not going back to GH," says her publicist. "It's just a rumor."
- Second Act
THERE'S life after baseball, football and tennis - on the golf course. The likes of Hall-of-Famers Mike Schmidt and Carlton Fisk, former Dodgers Rick Rhoden and Charlie Hough, and football greats Bruce Smith, Marshall Faulk and Danny Kanell will gather at the Old Dominion Club in Richmond, Va., Thursday to play in one of the 15 pro-am events on the Celebrity Players Tour. They - and actors William Devane, Jack Wagner and Alex Hyde-White - will try to beat defending champ Ivan Lendl for the $235,000 purse.
- July TV Schedules
The July TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month. Check out the right hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- Episode 13 Details
Thanks to Dusan Djurovic, we have even more details about 13 episode of Titans which of course has yet to air in the USA & Canada. The extra info includes guest stars, spoilers etc.... I have posted all the info on "Someone Wicked This Way Comes" in our episode guide section. Click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10 (if you've seen it). Thank you very much Dusan.
- Episode 12 Details
Thanks to Dusan Djurovic, we have even more details about 12 episode of Titans which of course has yet to air in the USA & Canada. The extra info includes guest stars, spoilers etc.... I have posted all the info on "She Stoops to Conquer" in our episode guide section. Click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10 (if you've seen it). Thank you very much Dusan.
- Episode 13 Review
Thanks to Ian Glover we have a review of the 13th (and last) episode of Titans which of course has yet to air in the USA & Canada. I have posted his review of "Someone Wicked This Way Comes" in our episode guide section click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10 (if you've seen it). Thank you very much Ian.
- Jack Wraps Up 'Trapped'
(From WagnerWorld.com)Jack Wagner (Jack, Titans) has just filmed a movie in Vermont, currently being called "Trapped". Although it's future is uncertain as of now, we do know it is about an avalanche rescue.
- Episode 12 Review
Thanks to Pam L. we have a review of the 12th episode of Titans which of course has yet to air in the USA & Canada. I have posted her review of "She Stoops to Conquer" in our episode guide section click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10 (if you've seen it). Thank you very much Pam.
- Ingo Not Joining Days
Ingo Rademacher's (ex-David, Titans) manager has confirmed that he is not joining NBC's Days Of Our Lives anytime in the near future though he is flattered about all the rumors.
- Elizabeth Bogush Update
(From Mrs. Elizabeth Bogush)Elizabeth Bogush (Jenny) can be seen on February 14, 2001 in UPN's Seven Days. She has just completed a starring role that airs in the NY area on Wednesday's at 8pm. Also catch Elizabeth, Lourdes and Kevin in the Feb/March issue of Teen Style.
- Benedicto on ER
DAILY VARIETY reports Lourdes Benedicto (Samantha) has signed on to star in a multi-episode story arc on NBC's ER, playing a pediatric specialist and possible love interest for Dr. Carter (Noah Wyle).
- New Kevin Zegers Poem
Dani has sent us a poem about Kevin Zegers (Ethan). If your one of his dedicated followers be sure to check it our here!
- Ingo Daytime Emmy Presenter
(From Soap Opera Digest)NBC has revealed which daytime stars will be taking to the stage at Radio City Music Hall on May 18 to present the 28th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards. And they are: AMC's KELLY RIPA (Hayley), REBECCA BUDIG (Greenlee), JOSH DUHAMEL (Leo), CAMERON MATHISON (Ryan), and MARK CONSUELOS (Mateo); ATWT's TERRI CONN (Katie) and PAUL LEYDEN (Simon); B&B's KATHERINE KELLY LANG (Brooke), SEAN KANAN (Deacon) and JENNIFER FINNIGAN (Bridget); Days' DEIDRE HALL (Marlena), DRAKE HOGESTYN (John), KRISTIAN ALFONSO (Hope), PETER RECKELL (Bo), NADIA BJORLIN (Chloe) and JAY KENNETH JOHNSON (Philip); GH's Ingo Rademacher (Jax); GL's NANCY ST. ALBAN (Michelle), PAUL ANTHONY STEWART (Danny), and RICKY PAULL GOLDIN (Gus); OLTL's ERIKA SLEZAK (Viki) and ROGER HOWARTH (Todd); Passions' GALEN GERING (Luis), MCKENZIE WESTMORE (Sheridan), LINDSAY KORMAN (Theresa), JULIET MILLS (Tabitha), and TRAVIS SCHULDT (Ethan); PC's KIKO ELLSWORTH (Jamal), ERIN HERSHEY (Alison), and BRIAN PRESLEY (Jack); and Y&R's PETER BERGMAN (Jack), MICHELLE STAFFORD (Phyllis) and DON DIAMONT (Brad). Tickets to the Daytime Emmys are available to the public through all Ticketmaster outlets, including ticketmaster.com. Tickets are also available during normal box office hours at Radio City Music Hall.
- Late, Late Show
Thursday May 31, 2001 on The Late, Late Show with Craig Kilbourn guests include Lourdes Benedicto (ex-Samantha, Titans). This is a repeat of her appearance from April.
- New Kevin Zegers Poem
Dani has sent us a poem about Kevin Zegers (Ethan). If your one of his dedicated followers be sure to check it our here!
- Late March/April TV Schedules
The late March/April TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month. Check out the right hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- Ingo Back On GH?
There are unconfirmed reports that Ingo Rademacher (ex-David, Titans) will return to General Hospital as Jasper "Jax" Jacks in June
- Lourdes On E.R.
April 19, LOURDES BENEDICTO (ex-Samantha, Titans) guest stars on NBC's E.R. once again.
- Late, Late Show
Monday April 4, 2001 on The Late, Late Show with guests include Lourdes Benedicto (ex-Samantha, Titans). She's out promoting E.R.
- Live With Regis & Kelly
Monday April 4, 2001 guests include Victoria Principal (ex-Gwen, Titans). Victoria is out to promote her new book 'The Living Principal : Looking and Feeling Your Best at Every Age'
- The View
Thursday April, 12, 2001 guests include Victoria Principal (ex-Gwen, Titans) and Tony Randall. Victoria is out to promote her new book 'The Living Principal : Looking and Feeling Your Best at Every Age'
- Lourdes On E.R.
March 29, LOURDES BENEDICTO (ex-Samantha, Titans) guest stars on NBC's E.R. once again.
- Late February/March TV Schedules
The late February/March TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month. Check out the right hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- "Unofficially" confirmed. Ingo joins "Days of Our Lives"
(From Kazoooooom )I've read on two sites, one www.angelfire.com/tv2/daystitans and one on another (I can't remember the addy) that Ingo Rademacher (ex-Jax, GH/ex-David, Titans) has been cast as Colin O'Connell on "Days" for a limited run being at least a year and a half, but has signed a 3 year contract. It's supposed to be in the next TV Guide.
- Hipstar Of The Week
Soap Opera Digest has voted Josie Davis (Laurie) as their Hip Star of The Week. Here's what their fashion gurus had to say about the actress: ![](pss0013b.jpg) STEPHANIE SAYS: Dewy, fresh-faced -- I love a girl who lets her true self shine through!
TONY SAYS: It takes a real presence to carry off such a short, uncomplicated haircut. In my opinion, Josie has that "presence" thing down pat. STEPHANIE SAYS: The sandals and winter jacket -- while both beautiful -- are at odds, seasonally. TONY SAYS: I think the flow from jacket to shoe works well, thanks to the pants. And that designer peacoat can't hide the fact that this gal has a gorgeous figure! STEPHANIE SAYS: The midriff-baring turtleneck is effective where the sandal/jacket dynamic isn't. And the color makes her pretty as a princess! TONY SAYS: It seems that everything in Ms. Davis' wardrobe is midriff-baring. This look screams, "Im sexy, in shape... and I know it!" STEPHANIE AND TONY SAY: The look is crisp, cool and breezy. Not exactly a winter look, but in California, the stars follow their own set of fashion rules.
- Familiarity Breeds R-E-S-P-E-C-T
(From Soap Opera Digest)In Hollywood, a "honey, baby, sweetie" town where everyone calls everybody else by their first name, Jason George is the exception. Although he’s twice worked with one of television’s most powerful honchos, Aaron Spelling- On Sunset Beach (George portrayed Michael) and the recently canceled Titans (as Scott)- the actor still addresses him as "Mr. Spelling." Why the formality? "There are two factors working," explains George. "First, I’m from Virginia. Where I grew up, everybody is ‘Mr.’ or ‘Ma’am’. The other thing is that I think Mr. Spelling has earned the right to ‘Mr.’ as a first name. He has said, ‘Call me Aaron,’ but it’s hard for me, and not just because he’s got a house with 40 rooms. It’s also one of those things where if my mom was standing next to me and I called him ‘Aaron,’ I’d get a nudge in the shoulder. The same way when I was in church as a kid, if I was talking to the reverend and I said, ‘Well, John,’ I’d get hit so hard, I wouldn’t know what to do."
- New Victoria Principal Book
April 3, 2001 marks the debut of Victoria Principal's new book "The Living Principal : Looking and Feeling Your Best at Every Age" You can pre-order the book right here: Hardcover or Audio Abridged Editon
- Teen Style February/March issue
(From Mrs. Elizabeth Bogush)Elizabeth Bogush (Jenny), Lourdes Benedicto (Samantha), and Kevin Zegers (Ethan) are featured in a spread on Titans in Teen Style February/March issue.
- Do you wanna look like Yasmine?
Well, you may not be able to look exactly like her but you can get a step closer. This month's InStyle (JLO cover) mentions that Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) uses Benefit Flamigo Fancy shimmer lotion on her skin.
- Ingo on Days Of Our Lives?
(From Kazoooooom)There are rumors floating around that Ingo Rademacher (David) is one of the top 3 choices for actors to play the upcoming role of Colin on NBC's Days of Our Lives. Colin will be the new love interest for Jennifer Horton (Melissa Reeves).
- Elizabeth Bogush Update
(From Beth Bogush)Elizabeth is leaving for Vancouver on January 3rd. to do a guest starring role on UPN'S Seven Days. She will be there until the 16th of January. She has also screentested for two new NBC shows, let's keep our fingers crossed. She will know the results when she gets back.
- Meet The Next Tom Cruise
(From ¤Glitter Gurl¤)Click the title to read the Teen Celebrity interview.
- Titans Stars In New Magazines
There is a photo of Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) at a party for clothing store owner Tracey Ross in the January Issue of InStyle Magazine (Madonna Cover). Kevin Zegers (Ethan) is in the January issue of Seventeen Magazine (Jennifer Lopez Cover). There is a small picture of Kevin and he is asked 'What is the best gift you have ever been given or received?' Kevin's answer "My role in TItans was a great gift. Aaron Spelling had the character of Ethan written especially for me after the pilot was completed. I didn't even have to audition!"
- Ingo Star
Click the title to read the Soap Opera Digest article.
- City Guys
(From Blaine Greenberg, Esq.)Look for Katie Stuart (Faith, soon-to-be Ethan's love interest) in a guest starring role on the new season of NBC's Saturday morning series "City Guys."
- Late January/February TV Schedules
The late January/February TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month. Check out the right hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- Did you watch Friends Last Night?
If you didn't you missed Jason Winston George (Scott). He made a brief appearance as a fireman who shows up because Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow) disconnects her smoke detector because it wouldn't stop beeping.
- Vote For The Titans Cast
In a way this is a shameless plug for my Ally McBeal site, but there is a poll question on the site where you can vote (as many times as you want) for Titans cast members. The question is 'What celebrity would you like to see as a love interest for Ally?'. At the time I'm posting this Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) is 2nd, Elizabeth Bogush (Jenny) is 26th, John Barrowman (Peter) is 31st, Ingo Rademacher (David) is 35th. Josie Davis, Casper Van Dien, Kevin Zegers, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Jason George are also there. You can click HERE! to vote.
- New Titans Poem
Anna Valentine has sent in a poem she has written about Titans & the cancellation. Click Here! to read it.
- UK Debut
(From Gavin of Clash Of The Titans)Titans is debuting in the United Kingdom on January 7th at 8pm, on Sky One. Then it will air every Tuesday beginning January 9th at 8pm.
- Celebrity Knockout
Yasmine Bleeth Vs. Josie Davis (Laurie), Casper Van Dien (Chandler) Vs. Ingo Rademacher (David) you decided at Gist.com's Titans' Celebrity Knockout. Cast your vote today.
- Late December/January TV Schedules
The late December/January TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month December. Check out the right hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- Girlfriends
December 25, JASON WINSTON GEORGE (Scott, Titans) guest stars on the UPN sitcom Girlfriends. (Repeat)
- Holidays with the Stars
Patti LaBelle and chef Wolfgang Puck prepare holiday meals. Also: Candace Bushnell previews holiday trends; actress Melody Thomas Scott (The Young & the Restless) shares a favorite holiday tradition; and Leal Lail (V.I.P.) goes on a shopping spree. Other celebrities featured include Sela Ward, Denise Richards, Christian Slater, French Stewart and Yasmine Bleeth. Sunday Dec., 24 8:00 PM PST 26 E! Monday Dec., 25 3:00 PM PST 26 E!
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of "Payback's A Bitch" in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- Overnight Metered Market Ratings for Monday Dec. 18, 2000
ABC regained its Monday crown with "Monday Night Football" in the overnight-metered market ratings (Dec. 18), pulling an 12.9 rating/20 share (10.9/16) CBS was second with a 9.4/14 (10.9/16). NBC was a solid third with "Third Watch," 6.4/9 (6.4/9). FOX edged out WB for fourth with a 5.8/8 (9.4/13) while The WB had a 5.7/8 (3.5/5). UPN rounded out the night with a 3.1/5 (4.0/6). "20/20 Downtown" started the night for ABC, averaging a 7.4/12 (7.8/12) from 8-9 p.m. (ET). "NFL Monday Night Showcase" pulled a 12.4/18(10.2/15) starting at 8 p.m. (ET), before a "Monday Night Football" match-up between St. Louis and Tampa Bay took an 16.2/26 (Indianapolis and Buffalo, 11.5/18), peaking with a 18.0/35 at 12 a.m. (ET). The primetime average from 8-11 p.m. was 12.7/19 (10.8/16). CBS' returned to its regular programming kicking off with "King of Queens at 8 p.m. with a 8.9/13 last week, " A Charlie Brown Christmas" 10.9/16). " Yes, Dear" slipped to a 8.5/12 (last week, " King of Queens," 9.9/14), followed by the night's top-rated show, " Everybody Loves Raymond," 13.1/19 (13.8/19). " Becker" continued to benefit from its lead-in, taking an 11.5/16 (11.9/17). At 10 p.m., " Family Law" took a 7.3/11 (10.0/16). The since-canceled " Titans" began NBC's night at 8 p.m. 4.0/6 (5.1/7). " Dateline NBC" followed at 9 p.m. with a 6.5/10 (7.0/10). " Third Watch" followed with a 8.7/14 (7.3/11). FOX led off its night with " Boston Public" at 8 p.m., 5.5/8 (8.2/12). The firm defends Santa on " Ally McBeal" at 9 p.m., taking a 6.2/9 (10.7/15). Mary's ex-boyfriend Robbie moved in with the Camdens on " 7th Heaven" with the show taking a 6.9/11 (4.9/7) on The WB. At 9 p.m., Max performed a Christmas miracle on " Roswell," helping the show to a 4.4/6 (" Teens Get Real" 2.3/4). UPN began Monday with " Moesha" at 8 p.m., 3.0/5 (3.9/6), followed by " The Parkers" at 8:30 p.m., 3.2/5 (4.2/6). " The Hughleys" drew a 3.1/4 (3.8/5) at 9 p.m., followed by " Girlfriends" at 9:30 p.m., 3.0/4 (4.1/6)."
- VH1's The List
(From Joe Gonga)Monday, December 18 at 7pm EST on VH1's The List they are choosing the Best Rap Album with guest panelists: Lourdes Benedicto (Samantha), Pos, David Krumholtz & Aries Spears.
- Almost Famous
Click the title to read the Soap Opera Digest article.
- Garth Ancier Out!
Television network NBC on Thursday named ``Today'' show Executive Producer Jeff Zucker to replace entertainment president Garth Ancier in a surprise move that makes a relative newcomer to prime-time its top programmer and spotlights its need for ``reality-based'' shows.
- Last Day On The Set
(From Tom)I worked on the last day and last episode of TITANS in Van Nuys near the airport. We shot a dining room scene. All of the cast were super nice and I Loved it. There day (12/13/00) was CREW CALL: 8am and they went until about 7pm. An Easy Day!!! Everyone was there and no one really saw it as a very sad moment. I think they know that the show even though canceled by NBC will got to FOX. I have confidence in that too. It's Aaron Spelling and he isn't going to let a great show like this one just die. They need a 9pm or 10pm time slot and NBC didn't want to give them that. They only need that and they would be in the top 25. I am writing letters to FOX, SPELLING and NBC. I have worked on Aaron Spelling shows like 90210 and Melrose Place and you know when he believes they are not going to die. NBC has become evil in the past few years ever since they had Friends and ER. They put two Carsey Werner shows (70's Show and Third Rock) up against each other last season. NBC needs to see a boycott and maybe that is the easy way to drop them from their pedestal so they come back down to Earth. Happy Holidays, Tom
- Mysterious Ways
"Mysterious Ways" returns to NBC on Monday at 8 p.m. ET (the day of the week and time slot it formerly held) on Jan. 1. The new Monday night lineup starting at 8 p.m. is Mysterious Ways followed by "Dateline NBC" at 9 p.m. and "Third Watch" at 10 p.m. (When the last 2 episodes of Titans will air are now up in the air I guess)
- Victoria Principal On Titans
(From Entertainment Tonight)Victoria Principal (Gwen) recently attended Revlon's Fire & Ice Ball for Breast Cancer and stopped to talk about the cancellation of Titans with ET. She said "We all tried hard and we had a really good time".
- Is Titans Really Over?
(From Bobo5467, source Soap Opera News & Rumors Central)(Before you read this I stress that this is only rumor and NBC, FOX & Spelling would not comment) Well it is confirmed that NBC did not order any more installments of the nightime soap, but David my souce with NBC, tells me that if, by some chance, TITANS ratings to skyrocket in the next 4 episodes, NBC will save the show from cancellation. Also if that does not occur, David tells me that Aaron Spelling is already in talks with FOX to save the show. Don't count TITANS out yet, it is still very much IN!!!
- NBC made a mistake by canceling Titans
Click the title to read the Entertainment Weekly article.
- Celebrity Sightings
Josie Davis, leisurely lunching at a Baja Fresh in Studio City. The Titans gal arrived cutely attired in purple pants, white shirt and shades. A female friend soon joined her, apologizing for her tardiness. J.D. and pal dined outside but migrated indoors when a table opened up. Escaping from the giggling cheerleaders who clearly recognized the gal, I guess.
- Celebrity Premiere of 'The Family Man'
Tuesday, Dec. 12 at Mann's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood is the celebrity world premiere of 'The Family Man' with appearances by stars Nicolas Cage, Tea Leoni and Don Cheadle. Other celebrity guests to include Casper Van Dien, Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, Cindy Crawford, Resse Witherspoon, Ben Stiller, Matthew Broberick, Rob Zombie, William H. Macy, Jon Voight, Lou Diamond Phillips, Ozzy Osbourne, Lara Flynn Boyle, Christian Slater, Britney Spears, Mark Wahlberg, Tim Allen and Marlon Wayans.
- Will You Miss NBC's Titans?
Click Here! to read the Gist.com article & respond to it.
- Save Titans Addresses and Petition
(From TitansPulse.com)If you think that Titans is getting better every week, please send a letter to Scott Sassa at NBC and let him know! Keep your letters short and positive, but let them know that you love Titans! The address is: Mr. Scott Sassa President, NBC West Coast 3000 W. Alameda Ave. Burbank, CA 91523 The main phone number for NBC West Coast is 818-840-4444. Sign this web-petition http://www.webpetitions.com/cgi-bin/print_petition.cgi?13116118437 Send e-mails to NBC at this address... http://nbci-nbctv.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/nbci_nbctv/people?2-44 HllywdChk@aol.com also has a campaign going you can email her for more information. You might also want to write to Mr.Spelling & tell him not to give up on the show. For an address to contact him at click here!
- My Comments On NBC and being cancelled
I don't think NBC supported the show properly from the start, why call it a 'guilty pleasure' some people wouldn't tune in just because of that. "Ed" one of NBC's other new shows had 4 ads aired for every 1 Titans had. Many people didn't even know Titans was moving to Mondays and in some markets a Billy Graham Special aired on NBC. Clearly the higher-ups decided to pull the plug even before they moved it to Monday. According to rumors Aaron Spelling is shopping the show around to other networks. How about Wednesdays at 8pm on FOX as a lead in to the Street? Well I guess not since that's been cancelled now too.
- Titans Cut From NBC Lineup
(From Gist.com)Titans fans should sit down before reading any further: The Aaron Spelling primetime soap has been canceled by NBC, according to Reuters. The show has been struggling in the ratings since its debut this fall, failing to garner a significant audience in its 8 to 9 p.m. ET Wednesday time slot. The hourlong drama shifted to Monday nights starting this past week but remained unable to attract enough viewers to supply it with a ranking higher than fifth place for its time slot that night. NBC executives informed Spelling on Tuesday that they would not order more episodes of the series past the 13 they had initially purchased for the season. At press time the Peacock Network had already aired nine installments of the sudser and plans to air the remaining four over the next few weeks
- NBC Rookies on the Rocks
HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - NBC has pulled the plug on Aaron Spelling's struggling soap 'Titans' and is close to doing the same with 'The Michael Richards Show.' Network executives informed Spelling Tuesday that they would not order a full season's worth of episodes for 'Titans,' effectively killing the show. The four unaired episodes of the original 13-episode order are expected to be burned off over the next few weeks.
- NBC Pulls The Plug On 'Titans'
LOS ANGELES (Zap2it.com) - After a lackluster performance in its new timeslot Monday night, NBC has decided to pull up stakes on "Titans" and is close to doing the same with "The Michael Richards Show," according to Variety. Despite NBC Entertainment President Garth Ancier's support of the primetime soap, when the show pulled a disappointing 2.8 rating/7 share in the key adult 18-49 demographic, NBC informed Spelling Tuesday that they would not be ordering more episodes of "Titans." The Monday night performance for the show is especially low since it had averaged a 3.3/9 with adults 18-49 in the Wednesday night slot at 8 p.m. -- down 13 percent from NBC's performance on Wednesday last season. The show also lost viewers in the move, dropping from 8 million viewers on Wednesday to 6.6 million on Monday. "Titans," described by some as a mix between "Dynasty" and "Melrose Place," attempted to capitalize on a recent vacuum of the primetime soap genre on TV. The show starred Casper Van Dien, Yasmine Bleeth and Victoria Principal in the story about the feuds and squabbles between members of a wealthy family living in Beverly Hills, CA.
- Jack Wagner is now the smooth kingpin on `Titans'
Click the title to read The Kansas City Star article.
- Titans Bad Boy Moves to Mondays
Click the title to read the TVGuide.com article.
- Celebrity Profile
Wednesday, December 6 & December 7 on the E! Celebrity Profile of actress Heather Locklear both Jack Wagner (Jack) and television producer Aaron Spelling are interviewed.
- Josie & Katie Instyle
Both Josie Davis (Laurie) and Katie Stuart (Faith) are in the December issue of InStyle Magazine (Sandra Bullock cover). Josie is pictured in a pin-striped dress by Victoria's Secret. Katie is in 3 pictures from Soleil Moon Frye & Melissa Joan Hart's spa party for Patima perfume. Visit our Pictures Section along the left side to see Josie (#18) and Katie (#4-#6).
- New Kevin Zegers Poem
Angela Johnson has sent us a poem about Kevin Zegers (Ethan). If your one of his dedicated followers be sure to check it our here!
- A Real-Life Chance to Bond With the Surf
(From LA Times)Ingo Rademacher, who plays a nightclub manager wooing the two daughters of his boss (Victoria Principal) in Aaron Spelling's ABC series "Titans," has purchased a Pacific Palisades home. The asking price was $722,000. The actor, 29, played Jasper "Jax" Jacks on ABC's "General Hospital" for four seasons before joining "Titans" as David O'Connor. Rademacher was voted "Hottest Male Star" in 1998 by readers of Soap Opera Digest. He guest starred in 1997 as a personal trainer on the NBC sitcom "Veronica's Closet" and had a guest role in 1996 on the ABC sitcom "Clueless." Before that, he played surfer Sean Hayden (1993-94) on the Australian soap "Paradise Beach," which aired in syndication in the U.S. Rademacher, born in West Germany, moved at age 10 with his family to Australia. He relocated to L.A. in 1994. He bought a three-story ocean-view home on a bluff with three bedrooms in 3,200 square feet. Built in 1957, the house was described as contemporary. Rademacher likes to be near the beach because he enjoys water sports and trains for Ironman competitions in his spare time. Randy Freeman of Prudential John Aaroe & Associates, Pacific Palisades, represented Rademacher in his purchase.
- Victoria On Providence
(From Soap Opera Digest)Titans’ VICTORIA PRINCIPAL (Gwen) guest stars on NBC’s Providence on December 8, reprising the role of Heather’s mom, Donna.
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of "Desperately Seeking Heather" in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- Going, Going...
CTV (Canadian Television Network) just can't wait for NBC to cancel The Michael Richards Show. They're pulling the low-rated sitcom, replacing it on Dec. 4 with a simulcast of NBC's frothy Aaron Spelling soap Titans. Richards' sorry series ranks fourth in its timeslot south of the border, sinking to a 5.7/9 ratings/share this past Tuesday night. Could soon be curtains for Kramer on NBC, too. The campy Titans makes some sense as a lead-in to CTV's Ally McBeal. However, CTV still has the No. 1 U.S. newcomer, C.S.I, on the shelf, along with new episodes of Felicity and Popular. C.S.I. will likely get the first available slot.
- Wagner Says 'Titans' Makes Him Feel Old
Click the title to read the Zap2it.com article.
- Casting About
(From Mancini2000, source Soap Opera Digest)Oscar winner Faye Dunaway has reportedly been approached by Aaron Spelling to appear on TITANS. She is rumored to be considering the role.
- Thumbs Up!/Thumbs Down
(From Mancini2000, source Soap Opera Digest)TITANS - The Good, The Bad, and the Ugh After sampling several episodes of the new prime-time sudser TITANS, the jury is still out. Gorgeous costumes, an eye-candy cast and lush sets have certainly gotten our attention, but if Executive Producer Aaron Spelling and Co. want to stay on the air, we'll need more substance to go along with all that style. Sample the evidence: The Good: Victoria Principal's (Gwen) return to series TV is cause for celebration. The woman who won America's hearts as Pam on DALLAS has made a successful transition from young heroine to family matriach with grace and dignity. Opposing her is wicked Heather, the deliciously bitchy catalyst who shakes up the Williams clan. Actress Yasmine Bleeth pulls out all the stops with her campy, yummy, over-the-top performances. The Bad: Axing patriarch Richard was a mistake. Perry King's strength as an actor and character will be sorely missed. His May/December marriage to Heather should have been played out longer. While the seldom clothed Casper Van Dien (Chandler) is easy on the eyes, his character does not have the charismatic presence of a young leading man. And so far, the refreshingly natural Jason Winston George (Scott) has been wasted. The Ugh: Logic has never been a strength on Spelling soaps (remember MELROSE PLACE?), but viewers can only suspend so much disbelief. Why would filthy rich Richard insist on tying the knot without a pre-nup? Why didn't suspicious Peter have Heather investigated before the wedding? Why does struggling alcoholic Jenny own a nightclub? We're hoping prime-time's new soap has legs, but at the moment, they're a bit wobbly... as are the ratings.
- Weekend TV: Jack Wagner
Click the title to read the Associated Press article.
- Believe It Or Not
Aaron Spelling telling the Associated Press he's not going to produce any more nighttime soaps. With ratings for his Titans tanking, Spelling says, "Maybe soaps have run their course...Failure bothers me."
- Ones to Watch
(From Gist.com)Titans NBC, Wednesdays, 8 p.m. ET (Note: As of Dec. 4, Titans will air Mondays at 8 p.m. ET) If you can appreciate campy drama, you'll love Aaron Spelling's latest primetime soap opera. This season's guilty pleasure focuses on the Williamses, a wealthy Beverly Hills family. At the center of it all is social-climbing vixen Heather Williams (Yasmine Bleeth). She was married to family patriarch Richard Williams (Perry King), but he recently croaked. Don't cry for his gold-digging widow, though. Despite the fact that the rest of the family hates her, Heather is firmly entrenched in the Williams' mansion. You see, she is pregnant. And, by the way, the baby isn't Richard's. The father-to-be is actually Richard's hunky son Chandler (Casper Van Dien). Enough drama for you? The over-the-top storylines are played with sheer delight by a great cast that includes scene-stealer John Barrowman in the role of Chandler's devilish brother, Peter. Meanwhile, Dallas alum Victoria Principal adds a touch of class to the show as Richard's dignified ex-wife Gwen. — Christine Champagne
- Celebrity Sighting
John Barrowman, of Titans, ascending the escalator at the Laemmle Sunset 5 movie theater. Hung around outside waiting to meet a friend for a late-night show.
- Penthouse Will Offer a Roomy Lair for This Titan
John Barrowman, who plays the nefarious son Peter Williams in Aaron Spelling's new NBC drama series "Titans," has purchased a West Hollywood penthouse for just under $400,000. Barrowman, 32, owns two houses in London. Before "Titans," Barrowman was best known to American TV audiences for his portrayal of Peter Fairchild in the series "Central Park West." The lyric baritone appeared on Broadway with Carol Burnett and Kathie Lee Gifford in Stephen Sondheim's "Putting It Together," and made his Broadway debut as Joe Gillis in "Sunset Boulevard," opposite Betty Buckley. Barrowman was born in Scotland but moved to Illinois when he was 8. He relocated to England as a young adult to study theater and soon co-starred there in the revival of "Anything Goes." He played the Beast in Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" and Raoul in "The Phantom of the Opera." His penthouse has a loft, living room with 18-foot ceilings and city views. The building has a pool, sauna and spa. Carl Williams of Coldwell Banker, Sunset, represented both sides of the transaction.
- Premiere of Sony's "The 6th Day"
Casper Van Dien (Chandler) was in attendance at the premiere & party for Arnold Schwarzenegger's new movie "The 6th Day" at National Theater in Westwood (screening) and the Museum of Flying in Santa Monica (party) on Monday. Other preemgoers included director Roger Spottiswoode; cast members Terry Crews, Robert Duvall and Jennifer Gareis; and guests Bill Bellamy, Crispin Glover, Maria Shriver and Alan Thicke.
- Are talkies just a phase?
Actress Maria Conchita Alonso (The Running Man) tells EW she’s producing Return to Babylon, an indie film about silent-movie stars. And here’s the wacky part: The movie will be silent! Alonso will play Mexican actress Lupe Velez, whose body was supposedly discovered facedown in a toilet bowl. "She was 36 and pregnant and wanted to die in a very glamorous way," says Alonso. "She prepared her death scene with flowers and candles around her bed and took some pills... But she ended up running for the toilet." Others who may not be talking: Titans’ Casper Van Dien (as drug-addicted movie idol Wallace Reid), Van Dien’s wife Catherine Oxenberg (starlet Louise Brooks), and Ione Skye (Fatty Arbuckle’s alleged rape victim, Virginia Rappe). Writer-Director Alex Monty Canawati is negotiating with Marlee Matlin for Clara Bow’s secretary, Daisy DeVoe. As for the It Girl herself, Canawati says Sean Young is pushing to tie up Bow. -William Keck.
- What if TV characters ran the government?
(From Laura at Titanspulse.com)Entertaindom.com has a funny little video you can view online using clips from various TV shows. Among those featured are Yasmine Bleeth (Heather, Titans), Rob Lowe (Sam, West Wing) & Andre Braugher (Dr.Gideon, Gideon's Crossing). Click Here! to see it.
- Casting About
(From Mancini2000)According to Soap Opera Digest, sources say Aaron Spelling wanted his golden girl, Heather Locklear (ex-Amanda, Melrose Place/ex-Sammy Jo, Dynasty), to appear in four episodes of Titans (for a whopping reported $200,000 a show). But ABC believed it would be a conflict of interest for the actress, who currently stars on Spin City.
- Yasmine in Ocean Drive Magazine
(From Ed)Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) is in the November 2000 issue of Ocean Drive magazine. Click here! to read the interview and here! (79-84) to see the pictures.
- 4 More Scripts Ordered
According to the Hollywood trade paper Variety, Titans will shift to Mondays at 8 p.m. starting Dec. 4. In addition, NBC has ordered four more scripts of the show. Titans fills the hole on Monday nights left by the vacated laffers ``Daddio'' and ``Tucker.'' Titans will bump ``Dateline NBC,'' which had been stunting in the slot, to 9 p.m. -- taking over for the recently canceled ``Deadline.''
- Titans On The Move
NBC will strengthen its top-rated primetime schedule by moving its critically acclaimed new romantic drama "Ed" from Sunday to Wednesday (8-9 p.m. ET), where it will join the Emmy-winning series "The West Wing" and "Law & Order" to create a three-hour block of "Must See TV" dramas. In addition, the network will lead off Monday nights with the primetime drama "Titans" (8-9 p.m. ET) and will kick off its Sunday schedule with "World's Most Amazing Videos" (7-8 p.m. ET). All of these schedule changes will take effect during the week beginning Monday, December 4. "'Ed' is one of the season's brightest freshman hits, both from a critical and ratings standpoint," said Garth Ancier, President, NBC Entertainment. "This is a show that fits perfectly with 'The West Wing' and 'Law & Order' and will provide viewers with one of the best nights of television, start-to-finish, on any network in recent memory." Through five weeks this season, "Ed" ranks among the fall's top freshman programs and top 30 series overall with a 5.2 rating and 12 share in adults 18-49. "Ed" is the first NBC series to deliver time period-winning performances in key demographics during the highly competitive Sunday 8-9 p.m. hour since the 1996-97 season. Overall, the series has attracted an average of 12.6 million viewers. Regarding the move of "Titans" to Monday nights, Ancier said: "Young women watch television on Monday more than any other night of the week, and with the other networks going into repeats in December, we think the Monday 8-9 p.m. hour provides a great opportunity for 'Titans' to continue to grow and eventually flourish. We continue to be pleased with the creative direction of this show under Aaron Spelling, Charles Pratt, Jr. and E. Duke Vincent's supervision and remain mindful of the fact that primetime soaps usually take a while before hitting full stride." Season to date, "Titans" has given NBC year-to-year growth in female demographics in its current Wednesday 8-9 p.m. time period. The series has delivered a 3.5/10 in adults 18-49 and 8.3 million viewers overall. "Ed" is from the writer/producers of "Late Show with David Letterman," and centers on title character Ed Stevens (Tom Cavanagh, NBC's "Providence"), a former New York lawyer who, after being fired and catching his wife cheating on him, decides to return to his hometown of Stuckeyville, Ohio. Julie Bowen, Josh Randall, Jana Marie Hupp and Lesley Boone also star. Wealth, power and turbulent family struggle vie for center stage in "Titans," from esteemed producer Aaron Spelling ("Dynasty," "Beverly Hills, 90210") when 26-year-old fighter pilot and prodigal son Chandler Williams (Casper Van Dien, "Starship Troopers" ) comes home to Beverly Hills and finds his filthy-rich family ripped apart. Yasmine Bleeth, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, John Barrowman, Josie Davis, Elizabeth Bogush, Lourdes Benedicto, Ingo Rademacher, Jason George and Kevin Zegers also star.
- Yasmine: Ready To Rumble
(From Page Six)Former Baywatch babe Yasmine Bleeth relishes her bad girl role on NBC's new prime-time soap, Titans. "We all have a little bitch in us," she told Ocean Drive magazine. "My inspiration is every woman who's ever gotten screwed by a guy in life." But don't look for any catfights between Bleeth and co-star Victoria Principal. "Apparently Victoria doesn't want to do it," she said. "I was hoping for a Jell-O fight." — Page Six Staff
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of "Angels with Dirty Minds" in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- Overnight Metered Market Ratings for Monday Dec. 11, 2000
CBS edged ABC and "Monday Night Football" in the overnight-metered market ratings (Dec. 11), pulling an 11.1 rating/16 share (9.5/14) to ABC's 10.9/16 (9.7/15). FOX was a solid third with "Ally McBeal" leading the way, 9.4/13 (9.4/13). NBC was hurt by "Titans," taking a 6.4/9 (7.1/10), while UPN rose to fifth place, 4.0/6 (3.4/5). The WB rounded out the night with a 3.5/5 (4.1/6). CBS' animated holiday specials continued to deliver, with "A Charlie Brown Christmas" pulling a 10.9/16 at 8 p.m., winning the half-hour (last week, "King of Queens" 9.4/14). A special episode of "King of Queens" followed at 8:30 p.m., 9.9/14 ("Yes, Dear" 8.2/12), followed by the night's top-rated show, "Everybody Loves Raymond," 13.8/19 (11.8/16). "Becker" continued to benefit from its lead-in, taking an 11.9/17 (10.8/15). At 10 p.m., "Family Law" took a 10.0/16 ("Tina Turner Live!" 8.3/13). "20/20 Downtown" started the night for ABC, averaging a 7.8/12 (6.9/11) from 8-9 p.m. (ET). "NFL Monday Night Showcase" pulled a 10.2/15 starting at 8 p.m. (ET), before a "Monday Night Football" match-up between Indianapolis and Buffalo took an 11.5/18 (New England Patriots vs. Kansas City Chiefs, 10.2/17), peaking with a 13.5/19 at 10 p.m. (ET). The primetime average from 8-11 p.m. was 10.8/16 (9.6/14). FOX led off its night with "Boston Public" at 8 p.m., 8.2/12 (8.1/12). Ally kept celebrating Christmas on "Ally McBeal" at 9 p.m., taking a 10.7/15 (10.9/16). The now-canceled "Titans" began NBC's night at 8 p.m.. 5.1/7 (5.1/8). "Dateline NBC" followed at 9 p.m. with a 7.0/10 (6.7/10). A repeat of "Third Watch" followed with a 7.3/11 (9.7/15). UPN began Monday with "Moesha" at 8 p.m., 3.9/6 (3.4/5), followed by "The Parkers" at 8:30 p.m., 4.2/6 (3.5/5). "The Hughleys" drew a 3.8/5 (3.5/5) at 9 p.m., followed by "Girlfriends" at 9:30 p.m., 4.1/6 (3.3/5). A repeat of "7th Heaven" took a 4.9/7 (5.3/8) on The WB. At 9 p.m., the special "Teens Get Real," hosted by Jessica Simpson, took a 2.3/4 ("Roswell" 3.1/4).
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of "Secrets & Thighs" in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- Overnight Metered Market Ratings for Monday Dec. 4, 2000
ABC and "NFL Football" won the first Monday of December in the overnight-metered market ratings, taking a 9.7 rating/15 rating (11.1/15). CBS followed, with "Everybody Loves Raymond" pulling the night's best ratings, with an overall 9.5/14 (10.5/15). FOX was third, edging NBC for the fourth week in a row, thanks to "Ally McBeal," 9.4/13 (9.3/13). NBC moved "Titans" to Mondays helping the net earn a 7.1/10 (8.5/12), with The WB slipping to a 4.1/6 (5.8/8). UPN rounded out the pack, grabbing a 3.4/5 (3.6/5). ABC started off with "20/20" at 8 p.m. ET, drawing a 6.9/11 (7.6/12). From 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. ET, the New England Patriots beat the Kansas City Chiefs, kicking off with a primetime average of 10.2/17 (11.9/19), peaking with a 11.8/17 at 10 p.m. (ET) The primetime average from 8-11 p.m. drew a 9.6/14 (11.0/16). CBS began the night with "King of Queens," 9.4/14 (9.5/14), followed by "Yes, Dear," 8.2/12 (9.0/13). At 9 p.m. "Everybody Loves Raymond" grabbed the net's best numbers, 11.8/16 (12.9/18), followed by "Becker," 10.8/15 (12.1/16). "Tina Turner Live!" aired at 10 p.m. drawing a 8.3/13 (last week, "Family Law" 9.8/15). School disputes was the topic of the night on "Boston Public" at 8 p.m. on FOX, grabbing a 8.1/12 (8.1/12). Ally kept celebrating Christmas on "Ally McBeal" at 9 p.m. and helped the legal comedy to a 10.9/16 (10.5/15). "Titans" moved from Wednesdays to Mondays at 8 p.m. on NBC and grabbed a 5.1/8 (last week, "Crocodile Hunter: Caught On Camera" 7.5/11) A special "Dateline" followed at 9 p.m. with a 6.7/10 (last week, "Law & Order" 8.2/11). "Third Watch" follwed with a 9.7/15 (9.8/15). Mary decided to forgo college on a repeat of The WB's "7th Heaven" at 8 p.m., garnering an 5.3/8 (7.5/11). Max became the leader on "Roswell" and found out that the skins were among him at 9 p.m., helping the show to a 3.1/4 (4.1/6). UPN began Monday with "Moesha" at 8 p.m., 3.4/5 (3.7/5), followed by "The Parkers" at 8:30 p.m., 3.5/5 (3.8/6). "The Hughleys" drew a 3.5/5 (3.6/5) at 9 p.m., followed by "Girlfriends" at 9:30 p.m., 3.3/5 (3.5/5).
- The Daily Show
Thursday, December 7 Casper Van Dien (Chandler) will be on Jon Stewart's The Daily Show which airs on Comedy Central (& The Comedy Network in Canada)
- The Daily Show
Wednesday, December 6 Casper Van Dien (Chandler) will be on Jon Stewart's The Daily Show which airs on Comedy Central (& The Comedy Network in Canada)
- Holidays with the Stars
Patti LaBelle and chef Wolfgang Puck prepare holiday meals. Also: Candace Bushnell previews holiday trends; actress Melody Thomas Scott (“The Young & the Restless”) shares a favorite holiday tradition; and Leal Lail (“V.I.P.”) goes on a shopping spree. Other celebrities featured include Sela Ward, Denise Richards, Christian Slater, French Stewart and Yasmine Bleeth. Sunday, 26 8:00 PM PST E! Monday, 27 10:00 PM PST E! Tuesday, 28 11:00 AM PST E! Tuesday, 28 5:00 PM PST E! Saturday, 2 6:00 PM PST E! Sunday, 3 3:00 PM PST E!
- Overnight-Metered Market Ratings for Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2000
NBC had no trouble keeping its lead over ABC on Wednesday, despite a slow night for "Titans." The Peacock pulled a 9.9 rating / 16 share (11.5/17) to ABC's 8.6/14 (11.1/16) for the night, with CBS and the movie "Love Lessons" third with a 6.5/10 (5.9/9). FOX, led by "Malcolm in the Middle," took fourth with a 4.2/7 (4.6/7), followed by UPN, 3.7/6 (3.9/6), and The WB, 3.6/6 (4.3/6). "Titans" started the night for NBC, slipping from last week's numbers with a 5.3/9 (6.1/9). The show moves to Mondays in December. At 9 p.m., "West Wing" easily won the hour but also slipped, 11.9/19 (14.1/20). "Law & Order" had another strong showing at 10 p.m., 12.7/21 (14.3/22), leading all shows on the night. ABC began its night at 8 p.m. with "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," which won the hour but slipped from last week's celebrity edition, 12.6/21 (15.9/21). At 9 p.m., "The Drew Carey Show" pulled an 8.5/13 (10.9/15), followed by "Spin City" at 9:30 p.m. with a 7.2/11 (8.9/13). The Andre Braugher medical drama "Gideon's Crossing" had a poor showing at 10 p.m., 5.4/9 (7.5/12). CBS' "Bette" started off Wednesday with a 6.0/10 (6.1/9), followed by "Welcome to New York" at 8:30 p.m., with another low number, 4.8/8 (4.9/7). From 9-11 p.m., CBS aired the movie "Love Lessons," averaging a 7.0/11 (last week, part two of "American Tragedy," 6.1/9). FOX started at 8 p.m. with "Malcolm In the Middle," which pulled the best ratings for the net, 6.0/10 (6.2/10). "Normal, OH," followed, slipping for the fourth week in the row, 4.8/8 (5.1/8). At 9 p.m. "The $treet" continued its slide despite the addition of "90210" vet Jennie Garth, 3.1/5 (3.6/5). "Seven Days" led off UPN's night with a 3.0/5 (3.2/5) at 8 p.m. "Star Trek: Voyager" followed at 9 p.m. with a 4.5/4 (4.6/7). The WB's "Dawson's Creek" pulled a 3.8/6 (4.6/7) at 8 p.m., followed by "Felicity" with a 3.5/5 (4.0/6).
- Chat with Jack Wagner
Monday, December 4 at 6:00PM ET Join TV Guide on AOL as we chat with Jack Wagner, star of NBC's drama series Titans. No stranger to TV, Jack has starred in memorable roles on General Hospital and Melrose Place. Now, after a brief time starring in Jekyll and Hyde on Broadway, Jack is back on TV and steaming up the set on Titans.
- Jack On Today
Monday December 4, Jack Wagner (Uncle Jack, Titans) is scheduled to be a guest on NBC's Today Show
- Jack On The View
Monday December 4, Jack Wagner (Uncle Jack, Titans) is scheduled to be a guest on ABC's The View
- Late November/December TV Schedules
The late November/December TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month December. Check out the right hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- Elizabeth Bogush: Class Actress
Click the title to read our 'exclusive' interview with one of Titans' leading ladies- Elizabeth Bogush (Jenny Williams).
- Katie Stuart: Sugar & Spice
Click the title to read our 'exclusive' interview with Titans' newest cast member Katie Stuart. She has been booked for at least the next 7 episodes (for a total of 8).
- Project ALS Ad
October's InStyle Magazine has a full page ad to help fight ALS featuring several stars including Yasmine Bleeth (Heather, Titans), Jane Krakowski (Elaine, Ally McBeal), Julie Moran (Entertainment Tonight), Ben Stiller (There's Something About Mary), Richard Kind (Spin City), Courtney Thorne-Smith (Georgia, Ally McBeal), Scott Wolf (Party Of Five), Paul McCrane (E.R.) & Julianna Margulies (E.R.) along with several other name big stars. For more information on how you can help visit http://www.projectals.org
- Win A Trip To Meet Yasmine
Ford's Fresh Start For Survivors Contest wants to toast to your health with a weekend of star treatment. If you or someone you love is a breast cancer survivor, tell them (in 250 words or less) why you want to celebrate life with a weekend of pampering. One lucky essayist and their guest will win a trip for two to Los Angeles. The prizes include: - Four days and three nights at a top LA hotel
- A head-to-toe makeover for you and your guest with a top hairsylist and makeup artist to the stars
- Photographs of you (before and after) to appear on the Ford Force website
- A behind-the-scenes look for you and your guest at a taping of Titans, NBC's new series, and a chance to meet star Yasmine Bleeth
- Dinner on the town for two to celebrate your new look!
Visits the following site to enter http://www.fordvehicles.com/fordforce
- New Yasmine Cover
Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) is on the cover of Dec/Jan. edition of Complete Woman magazine. The magazine features a two page interview and some pictures including a small one with Yasmine & John Barrowman (Peter). Click here! to read the interview and click here! to see the cover shot & the inside pictures (#69 to 78).
- People's Sexiest Man Alive
Although Brad Pitt was named sexiest man alive, Casper Van Dien (Chandler) has made People Magazine's list of ``16 Sexy Men'' in different fields. Others making the list include Craig Bierko (Broadway), Rudy Boesch (Survivor contestant), Jon Bon Jovi (rock star), John Mellencamp (sexiest grandfather), Adrian Paul (action star) & Tyrese (R&B star). This issue is on stands now. Visit Casper's picture section to see a partial of the two page spread feature in the issue.
- Woulda, Shoula, Coulda
(From Soap Opera Digest)Although Josie Davis (Laurie) is thrilled to be a part of Titans, she admits that hit has cramped her style... film style, that is. "There have been a couple of movies that I got that I wasn't able to do because of the show," she reveals. "And I got another movie... it's a pain, [the film producers] didn't want to have a deal with the schedules... Also, there's a huge movie they wanted to put me in, "John Q" -the Denzel Washington film with Anne Heche, and she's in all the scenes. We have the same kind of look and coloring and hair and eyes and everything very similar, except I'm not a lesbian. They felt we looked to similar, and they didn't want to give me a wig. So the acting got me the part [even though] the look was wrong." Too bad Davis couldn't tackle the role. "I was supposed to be a stripper," she sighs.
- Live Like the Titans or at Least Look Like Them
Join the weekly Watch with Wanda chat November 13 at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT at E! Online, and you could win great Titans prizes, courtesy of AsSeenIn.com It's that simple--all you need to do to be eligible to win is just enter the chat. Four people will walk away lucky. Grand prize is a $500 Brooks Brothers gift certificate, and three runners-up get trés chic Madden Hosmann handbags. (USA only)
- Celebrity Sightings
Yasmine Bleeth, garbed in a gold halter top and skintight Earl Jeans, leading a slew of studs into new dance club Vinyl.
- Attention SR-71 Fans
SR-71, who played at Pulse in episode two, will be part of a live webcast on Saturday November 11, courtesy The House Of Blues & MTV. Click here! for more details.
- Recent Site Additions
We've added a few new features to the site in the left hand column under "List etc..". Some of the sections are At Pulse, Top Episodes & Titans The Movie & more. All are interactive & require your participation.
- Katie Stuart Pictures
(From Blaine Greenberg, Esq.)We now have 3 pictures of Titans' newest cast member Katie Stuart up for you to view. Katie will play Faith, Ethan's love interest. Click here to see the pictures of this gorgeous new cast memeber.
- Mission Possible
Victoria Principal (Gwen) is expected to attend a black-tie benefit, dubbed "Mission Possible," to help Christopher Reeve's foundation raise an estimated $2 million. Liam Neeson is expected to give a detailed account of his recent motorcycle accident in which he feared he would paralized and will co-host the Nov. 14 benefit at the Waldorf-Astoria with wife Natasha Richardson. Other invitees include Paul Newman, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Maria Shriver and Tom Fontana along with a host of other celebs.
- More Magazine Coverage For Titans?
Mimi Torchin, the top scribe at the popular soap magazine Soap Opera Weekly, has been released from her editor-in-chief position. Lynn Leahey, the current editor-in-chief of Soap Opera Weekly's sister publication, Soap Opera Digest, is being promoted to editorial director with responsibility for both publications. Torchin, a soap celeb in her own right, interacted with soap fans through her weekly editor's column, Speaking My Mind. According to the magazines's publishing company, Primedia, the surprising change is the result of the decline in soap opera veiwership and newsstands sales of all print publications. The company hopes to redesign the magazines as a more complimentary package and add new sections to Soap Opera Weekly as well, including more coverage of primetime serials.
- InStyle Question- November
What one thing would you change about your appearance? Yasmine Bleeth: "I want to have longer legs than the ones God gave me. I'd like to go from 5' 2" to 5' 11" for one day to see what it's like"
- New Kevin Zegers Poem
Starbright has sent us a poem about Kevin Zegers (Ethan). If your one of his dedicated followers be sure to check it our here!
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of "Torn Between Two Mothers" in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- Overnight-Metered Market Ratings for Wednesday Nov. 15, 2000
NBC continued to maintain its lead in Wednesday's overnight-metered markets with its "West Wing" and "Law & Order" combo leading the competition with a primetime average 11.5 rating/ 17 share (last week, 11.5/17). ABC closed in the gap for second place, thanks to a celebrity "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," 11.1/16 (10.1/15). The second part of "An American Tragedy: The O.J. Simpson Story" kept CBS in third, dipping in ratings to an overall 5.9/9 (7.2/11). FOX followed, with "Malcolm In the Middle" drawing the best ratings for the net of the night, the net continued to slip overall to a 4.6/7 average (4.9/7). The WB maintained fifth place with a 4.3/6 (4.3/6), followed by UPN, which rounded out the group with a 3.9/6 (4.0/6). NBC kicked off the evening with "Titans" at 8 p.m., which pulled a 6.1/9 (6.7/10). At 9 p.m., "West Wing" led its timeslot with a 14.1/20 (13.8/20), raising in its second half to a 14.5/21. "Law & Order" followed, winning the 10 p.m. block with a 14.3/22 (13.9/21). ABC began with the game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," featuring stars Puff Daddy and Tyra Banks among others, leading the 8-9 p.m. time block with a 15.9/21 (13.9/21), pulling the highest ratings of the night in the second half with a 17.3/25 (15.2/22). "Millionaire" gave a boost to the rest of the night, "Drew Carey" drew a 10.9/15 (10.4/15) at 9 p.m., followed by "Spin City" at 9:30 p.m., which grabbed an 8.9/13 (8.5/12). ABC's freshman medical drama "Gideon's Crossing" aired at 10 p.m., with a 7.5/12 (7.0/11). CBS' "Bette" dipped to a 6.1/9 (8.3/12) at 8 p.m., followed by "Welcome to New York" at 8:30 p.m., drawing a low 4.9/7 (6.4/9). From 9-11 p.m., CBS aired the second part of TV movie "An American Tragedy: The O.J. Simpson Story" starring Christopher Plummer and Ving Rhames, drawing a 6.1/9 . (Last week: "Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis: Part 2" from 9-11 p.m., 7.1/11). FOX started at 8 p.m. with "Malcolm In the Middle" pulling the best ratings of the night for the net with a 6.2/10 (6.5/10), followed by "Normal, OH," which continued to dip in ratings in its third week to a 5.1/8 (5.4/8). At 9 p.m., "The $treet," continued to slip in ratings since its debut to a disappointing 3.6/5 (3.9/6). At 8 p.m., The WB's "Dawson's Creek" had Andie (Meredith Monroe) deciding to leave Capeside, grabbing a 4.6/7 (4.9/7), followed by "Felicity" at 9 p.m., 4.0/6 (3.7/5). UPN began with "Seven Days" at 8 p.m., 3.2/5 (3.3/5), followed by "Star Trek: Voyager," 4.6/7 (4.2/7).
- Appearances Cancelled
(From Alec)Yasmine Bleeth's appearances on Letterman & The Today Show on Wednesday the 15th have been cancelled. They are trying to switch them to next week so Yasmine can participate in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade which takes place on Thursday November 23. Stay tuned as more details develop. (Remember This is uncomfirmed at this point)
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of the "Bad Will Hunting" episode in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- NBC Leads Wednesday Night With 'Law & Order'
(From Zap2it.com)Overnight-Metered Market Ratings for Wednesday Nov. 8, 2000 NBC continued to maintain its lead in Wednesday's overnight-metered markets with its "West Wing," "Law & Order" combo leading the competition with a primetime average 11.5 rating/ 17 share (last week, 11.8/18). ABC closed in the gap for second place, thanks to "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," 10.1/15 (9.6/15). "Bette" kept CBS in third, raising slightly in ratings to an overall 7.2/11 (6.5/10). FOX followed, with "Malcolm" drawing the best ratings for the net of the night, dipping overall to a 4.9/7 average (6.3/9). The WB maintained fifth place with a 4.3/6 (4.3/6), followed by UPN, which rounded out the group with a 4.0/6 (3.7/6). NBC kicked off the evening with "Titans" at 8 p.m., which continued to rise slightly in ratings for the second week in a row to a 6.7/10 (6.3/10). At 9 p.m., "West Wing" led its timeslot with a 13.8/20 (14.7/21). "Law & Order" followed, winning the 10 p.m. block with a 13.9/21 (14.5/23). ABC began with the game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," leading the 8-9 p.m. time block with a 13.9/21 (13.2/20), pulling the highest ratings of the night in the second half with a 15.2/22 (14.0/21). At 9 p.m., a live "Drew Carey" drew a 10.4/15 (10.1/15), followed by "Spin City" at 9:30 p.m., which grabbed an 8.5/12 (8.2/12). ABC's freshman medical drama "Gideon's Crossing" aired at 10 p.m., with a 7.0/11 (6.6/11). CBS' "Bette" pulled the net's strongest ratings of the night at 8 p.m., with an 8.3/12 (8.2/12). "Welcome to New York" followed at 8:30 p.m., drawing a 6.4/9 (6.1/9). From 9-11 p.m., CBS aired the TV movie "Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis: Part 2" starring Joanne Whalley in the title role, with Tim Matheson, Andrew McCarthy and Tom Skerritt, drawing a 7.1/11. (Last week: "Children of Fortune" from 9-11 p.m., 6.3/10). FOX started at 8 p.m. with a second new episode for the week of "Malcolm In the Middle," 6.5/10 (last week: "The Simpsons, 8.0/12), followed by " Normal, Ohio," which dipped significantly in its second week to a 5.4/8 (8.0/12). At 9 p.m., " The $treet," dipped from last week's disappointing debut to a 3.9/6 (4.7/7). At 8 p.m., The WB's " Dawson's Creek" had Andie (Meredith Monroe) hospitalized after trying the drug Ecstasy, grabbing a 4.9/7 (4.7/7), followed by " Felicity" at 9 p.m., 3.7/5 (4.0/6). UPN began with " Seven Days" at 8 p.m., 3.3/5 (3.3/5), followed by " Star Trek: Voyager," 4.2/7 (4.3/7)."
- Yasmine On The Today Show
In addition to being on Letterman on Wednesday November 15, Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) will be on NBC's Today Show for an interview that morning.
- Yasmine On Letterman
Wednesday November 15, Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) will be on CBS' Late Night with David Letterman
- More Spoilers
I just posted a couple more spoilers. Click here! if you want to read them.
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of the "Frisky Business" episode in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- Ratings Bulletin
NBC got another decent performance out of Titans (6.3/10 in metered market households). Given up for dead two weeks ago, the new Aaron Spelling soap inched ahead to its strongest overnights in three weeks. The official ratings for the night came in at 5.8/9 for overall households, which is up slightly from 5.6/9 the week before. NBC's hourlong offering remained fourth in both viewers (7.23 million) and adults 18-49 (2.8/8), although it moved ahead of "Welcome" at 8:30 for the first time. Here are the overnights from Access Hollywood 1 Millionaire ABC 8 PM 13.9/22 2 West Wing NBC 9 PM 12.7/19.5 3 Law & Order NBC 10 PM 12.2/20.5 4 The Drew Carey Show ABC 9 PM 9.8/15 5 Simpsons FOX 8 PM 8.0/13 6 Normal Ohio FOX 8:30 PM 7.8/12 7 Bette CBS 8 PM 7.6/12 8 Movie CBS 9 PM 7.58/12 9 Gideon's Crossing ABC 10 PM 6.2/10.5 10 Welcome to NY CBS 8:30 PM 5.7/9 10(tie) Titans NBC 8 PM 5.7/9
- Titans has NOT Been Cancelled
Despite what people are writing on the message board Titans has not been cancelled & will air as usual on Wednesday at 8pm/7c on NBC.
- Late October/November TV Schedules
The late October/November TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month November. Check out the left hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- Casting Rumors
More & more rumors are starting to surface in regards to guest star casting. Some are far out there, some not so far fetched. Here are some of the names being put out there: Krista Allen (Jenna, Baywatch/ex-Billie Days of Our Lives), Jenny Garth (ex-Kelly, BH 90210), Melissa Reeves (Jennifer, Days Of Our Lives), Vanessa Marcil (ex-Brenda, General Hospital), Sherri Shaum (Beggars & Choosers/ex-Vanessa, Sunset Beach), David Charvett (ex-Matt, Baywatch), David Chockachi (ex-Cody, Baywatch) and Patrick Duffy (ex-Bobby, Dallas). Most are just wishful thinking but don't be surprised if one or two actually come true. Click here to tell us who you would pick as a guest star
- Help Fight Breast Cancer
(From Titans Pulse & Haley)On Tuesday, October 24 (today), the NFL's Breast Cancer Awareness Day, the NFL will donate $5 for every person that logs onto www.nfl.com/nflforher/index.html. They will donate up to $50,000 to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. And then go to www.lifetimetv.com and sign the pledge for breast cancer awareness. Once they have enough signatures it will be sent to the White House along with a very powerful message asking for help in ending breast cancer. Breast cancer affects about one in every 8 women.
- Yasmine Movie Wins Award
(From Titans Pulse)"Undercover Angel" (93 min.; 35mm), written, directed and produced by Bryan Michael Stoller won the audience favorite Bravo Award at the Burbank International Children's Film Festival. The film also stars Dean Winters (Oz), Emily Mae Young (Step By Step) & James Earl Jones (Star Wars).
- Davis Rules
(Click the title to read the article Soap Opera Digest)
- 7 Questions with Yasmine Bleeth
(Click the title to read the article Soap Opera Digest)
- YoungStar Awards
(From Titans Pulse)Kevin Zegers (Ethan) will be a participants in The Hollywood Reporter's Fifth Annual YoungStar Awards which will be held on Sunday, Nov. 19, 2000 at the Wilshire Theatre in Beverly Hills. A limited number of YoungStar Awards seats are available for $75 and $275. Call 323/525-2146 for ticket information.
- Cosmo Features Aussies
(From Titans Pulse)THe November Issue of Cosmo magazine has a feature on Australian men. Some of the featured men are Ingo Rademacher (Titans), Heath Ledger (The Patriot), Patrick Rafter (Tennis star), Cory Hutchings (Surfer) and Meg Ryan's new flame heart throbe Russell Crowe.
- Casting Directors Interview
Click here to see an interview with Titans casting directors Mark Paladini and Fern Champion
- Titans Director Michael Lange On Perry King
(From Codygirl via Riptide)JD: You directed Titans, as a director did you see Perry's acting improve? Michael: Good question, JD. He's changed a lot. Still a good actor, but his attitude about the work is much more focused and serious. Unfortunately he's not on Titans any more. Codygirl: JD was close to my question... was it like old times, and how did Perry seem to be with the situation regarding Titans? Michael: It was great to reconnect with Perry. We reminisced a lot about Riptide and I told him about the site. He seemed OK with the situation and since they have to pay him anyway, he liked the idea of getting a paid vacation. I do believe that he was a little bit hurt by it, though. As would any of us. He's mellowed out quite a bit, though. Not quite the stallion he used to be. It was great to see him and work with him again. Codygirl: Your episode of Titans will be on the 25th - was it Perry's last? Michael: No, he dies in the episode after mine.
- Billy Bastion
If you like Brody Hutzler who played Billy Bastion in the Pilot episode, you can check him out again on October 30, when he guest stars on an episode of Ally McBeal entitled "Girls Night Out". He also recurs on the CBS soap opera "The Young & The Restless" as Cody a bartender at Nick & Sharon Newman's coffee bar.
- New Character Added in Episode 6
(from Titans casting directors Mark Paladini and Fern Champion via an interview http://www.nwez.net/michette/michette.htm)Actress/singer Katie Stuart has been cast as "Faith" a sassy, gorgeous 16 year old from Beverly Hills. Faith will be the love interest for Kevin Zeger's character Ethan. She lives next door to Ethan & Gwen and across the street from Chandler & Co.)
- Look Like A Titans Contest
GRAND PRIZES Pink Python Gown by ABS. Worn by Heather Lane Williams in the Titans episode, "Guess Who's Chumming for Dinner." Iris Halter Dress by Tadashi. Worn by Jenny Williams in the Titans episode, "Guess Who's Chumming for Dinner." Vintage Jewel China by Lenox. An exact duplicate of the opulent fine china seen in the Williams' formal dining room on the set of Titans. FIRST PRIZES One of 50 collectors' scripts from the season premiere of Titans. Click here to enter http://www.asseenin.com/tnspromo/0,1424,,00.html
- Recent Site Additions
We've added 3 new features to the site in the left hand column under "List etc..". They are Predictions, Top 5 Characters & Titans The Movie. All are interactive & require your participation.
- Jack To Play In AFI Classic
(From Yahoo! News)The AFI Golf Classic will return to the Riviera Country Club on Monday, Oct. 30, 2000. Rejoining the American Film Institute (AFI) at the world-famous golf course are presenting sponsor Alfred Dunhill and co-sponsors General Motors and Golf Magazine. New to the group is associate sponsor Michelob Light. Those scheduled to play include Jack Wagner, Clint Eastwood, James Garner, Thomas Gibson, Michael Keaton, Greg Kinnear, Jack Lemmon, Jack Nicholson, Joe Pesci, Sidney Poitier, Dennis Quaid, Randy Quaid, Ray Romano, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone & Bruce Willis.
- The Ratings Are Up Slightly
The ratings are in for last night & Titans gained 0.4 in the rating this week up to 5.6/9 from 5.2/9. Things are starting to look up epspeacially in the 18 to 49 age group.
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of the "Stormy Heather" episode in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- Katie Stuart Picture
(From Blaine Greenberg, Esq.)I have posted our first picture of Titans newest cast member Katie Stuart. Katie will play Faith, Ethan's love interest. click here to see the picture.
- Stormy Heather Ratings News
(From Access Hollywood)1 Millionaire ABC 8 PM 11.7/19 2 Law & Order NBC 10 PM 11.6/18 3 West Wing NBC 9 PM 11.4/18 4 World Series (MLB) FOX 8 PM 8.0/14 5 The Drew Carey Show ABC 9 PM 8.9/13 6 CBS Movie CBS 9 PM 8.8/14 7 Bette CBS 8 PM 8.8/14 8 Spin City ABC 9:30 PM 7.7/1 9 Welcome to NY CBS 8:30 PM 7.4/13 10 Gideon's Crossing ABC 10 PM 6.4/10 Titans at 5.9/9 (last week 6.0/9) failed to make the top ten this week but did reportedly gain in the ultra-important 18-49 age group by about 23% from the week before putting it only behind Millionaire in that age group for the night. Bette's overnight ratings went down for the 2nd straight week to 8.8/14 from 9.1/15 even with Dolly Parton in a guest starring role. Bottom line, is Titans safe? That remains to be seen. NBC axed Tucker and put Daddio on hiatus on Wednesy. Titans final numbers should be in later today. If any news about the shows future is coming this week expect it to be on Friday after all the ratings are analyzed.
- Overnight Ratings 10/18
(From Access Hollywood)1.Who...Millionaire ABC 8 PM 13.8/23 2. Law & Order NBC 10 PM 12.1/20 3. West Wing NBC 9 PM 8.8/14 4. The Drew Carey Show ABC 9 PM 10.7/17 5. Spin City ABC 9:30 PM 9.8/15 6. Bette CBS 8 PM 9.1/15 7. Gideon's Crossing ABC 10 PM 7.8/13 8. Welcome to NY CBS 8:30 PM 7.3/12 9. CBS Movie CBS 9 PM 7.2/12 10. Titans NBC 8 PM 5.4/8
- Overnight Ratings 10/18
(From Laura at Titans Pulse)West Wing was way down from its gigantic two-hour season premiere of two weeks ago (18.7/27), as the show apparently lost a lot of ratings momentum when a presidential debate preempted the series last Wednesday. Still, if the local-market average holds up nationally (some slippage is likely), it'll be the second-highest-rated West Wing ever. And the political drama is doing it without much lead-in help from the fading Titans (6.0/9 in metered market households). The new Aaron Spelling soap faded 8 percent below last week's 6.5/10 and 34 percent below its premiere 9.1/14 from the week before. And while last week's big dive could be explained in part by CBS's hotly promoted Bette premiere and debate and baseball disruptions, this week's numbers have no such excuses. CBS's new Wednesday comedies Bette and Welcome to New York have come skidding back to reality in their second airings, down 21 percent and 25 percent, respectively, from their hot debut overnights of a week ago.
- NBC soaps up primetime with trashy 'Titans'
(Click the title to read the article from the Ohio U Post)
- Bette Lifts CBS
(From TV Guide)Final numbers are in, and Bette Midler's self-titled CBS sitcom got off to a record-smashing start Wednesday night. The show's premiere scored the network's best comedy ratings for the night in more than five years. Although ABC's Who Wants to be a Millionaire bested Bette in total viewers, the sitcom came out on top in all key demos. The news wasn't so good at NBC, where its highly touted Aaron Spelling soap, Titans, saw its ratings drop off after its promising debut last week. The Yasmine Bleeth-fronted guilty pleasure lost 29 percent of its premiere audience, attracting 8.2 million viewers, compared with 11.6 a week ago. Meanwhile, the second presidential debate between Al Gore and George W. Bush netted a 37.57 rating in total viewers, making it the second lowest-rated debate in Nielsen history. That translated to a big positive for the WB's Felicity, which tied its highest 18-49 rating since its Sept. 29, 1998 premiere.
- National Enquirer 'Uncovered'
(From Heather- WestThere's retro, and then there's flat out late. Aaron Spelling has this amazing ability to make a brand new show seem 15 years old. Or maybe it's just that the lives of the rich and condescending never changes. Titans takes place on the corner of Gaudy and Pretentious Avenue right in the bowels of Beverly Hills, although I'm not really sure they zone for bowels in that city. It's a sterile world of privilege with guys named Peter and Chandler. There is, of course, the rich father who is unknowingly about to marry his son's ex-lover. And let's not forget the evil son, and the alcoholic daughter. If these people were my neighbors, I'd get a vacation house in the 'hood just to relax for a little bit. This show makes me ask myself why they call it a 'soap' opera if it makes me feel so....dirty afterwards. This show has a familiar look and feel to it, and if you don't like that, you won't like the show because it's kind of retro, almost like a flashback. Rating - 0 out of 4
- Réal Andrews (Taggert, GH) on Ingo
(From TV Guide)We already know that GH's Réal Andrews is dedicated to keeping himself in top-notch shape — he trains with martial arts guru Billy Blanks and will compete in the Ironman Triathlon on Oct. 14 — but who does he think are some of the fittest people on his show? "Ingo [Rademacher (ex-Jax)] is quite fit," says Andrews of his former co-star. "He just kicked my butt in a triathlon, so I'll be looking to redeem myself next year.
- Brio Cheese
(Click the title to read the article from the Gist.com)
- "Dysfunction Junction" Ratings
(from Accesshollywood)Who...Millionaire ABC 8 PM 13.5/22 Bette CBS 8 PM 11.0/18 Welcome to NY CBS 8:30 PM 9.1/14 Major League Baseball FOX 8:30 PM 6.7/10 Titans NBC 8 PM 6.0/10 MLB Pregame/Game FOX 8 PM 5.4/9
- "Dysfunction Junction" Ratings
(from PT via Zap2it.com)The over night ratings are in. NBC began the evening with "Titans" at 8 p.m., dropping in ratings for the second week to a 6.6/10 (9.3/14). At 9 p.m., "Decision 2000" covered the sit-down debate, moderated by news anchor Jim Lehrer, grabbing the second-highest ratings with an 8.0/12 (last week: "West Wing" from 9-11 p.m., 18.7/27).
- Bette Fares Well
(from TV Guide)Preliminary ratings from last night's much-hyped premiere of Bette bode well for the new CBS sitcom starring Bette Midler. In the 8 pm half-hour, the comedy finished in a virtual dead heat with ABC's Who Wants To Be a Millionaire. A winner will be declared when final numbers are released later today. At 8:30, the debut of the new Christine Baranski sitcom, Welcome to New York also fared well, retaining 86 percent of its Bette lead-in but finishing second to Millionaire. Another big winner last night was The WB's Felicity, which, opposite the presidential debate (not The West Wing), saw its audience grow 36 percent from last week's season premiere. Even more remarkable is that the drama held on to a stunning 98 percent of its lead-in from Dawson's Creek. "Felicity is back in the winner's circle for the first time in over a year," says Marc Berman of industry newsletter The Programming Insider.
- Access Hollywood October 11
From 'Melrose Place' to Rodeo Drive. On 'Access Hollywood' Jack Wagner tells you what it's like working for Aaron Spelling again
- Plot's thin, a rip-off in NBC's `Titans'
(Click the title to read the article from the Miami Herald)
- 'Titans': deliciously bad TV
(Click the title to read the article from the Boston Globe Online)
- Oh, Yasmine, it's Kevin calling...'
(Click the title to read the old article from Macleans Magazine)
- 'Titans' Fans Go Behind-the-Scenes of Television's Hottest New Drama at AsSeenIn.com
(Click the title to read the article)
- Adventurous Ingo
(From IngoRademacher.net)
Ingo will be on the cover of the October or November edition of Skin Diver magazine.
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of the "Guess Who's Chumming for Dinner?" episode in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- The Ratings Are In
(From Zap2It.com)NBC swept above the competition in overnight-metered market ratings for Wednesday, with the two-hour premiere of "The West Wing" attracting the highest ratings of the night. The mystery over who got shot led the net to a primetime average 15.5 rating/23 share. CBS' broadcast of the Country Music Awards landed the Eye in second place, 9.2/14, closely followed by ABC, aided by the premiere of "Millionaire" to a 9.0/13. Fox's airing of Major League baseball placed the net in fourth place with a 6.1/9. NBC began the evening with the debut of Aaron Spelling's new primetime soap "Titans" at 8 p.m., grabbing a strong 9.3/14. At 9 p.m. ET, "The West Wing" opened its sophomore season with a two-hour premiere, featuring flashbacks of how the President's staff first came together, grabbing a night-high of 18.7/27.
- Trashy, terrible Titans downright dreadful TV
(Click the title to read the article from the San Francisco Chronicle)
- New crop of TV shows: dumbest, bravest and most depressing
(Click the title to read the article from The Ottawa Citizen)
- The Review/Summary, Quotes & Rating
I have posted my review & rating of the "Pilot" episode in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- Froth of guilty pleasures’ in prime-time sudser
(Click the title to read the article from Cleveland.com)
- Does 'West Wing' really differ from a Spelling soap?
(Click the title to read the article from the Columbus Dispatch)
- Remember these `Titans'? Probably not
(Click the title to read the article from Kansas City Star)
- `Titans' Emerge As a Giant Race of Idiots
(Click the title to read the article from the SF Gate)
- You'll forget TV's 'Titans' from the start
(Click the title to read the article from USA Today)
- Titans on E! News Daily
(From Linda)Titans was featured on E! News Daily last night. They had a picture of the entire cast. Victoria Principal, Casper Van Dien, Jack Wagner, and Yasmine Bleeth spoke. They briefly showed some scenes. Can't wait to see a segment like this when they interview Ingo, though. It made you want to watch the show.
- ClickTV.com on Titans
(From Kalli)Aaron Spelling outdoes himself with his latest prime-time soap, a so-bad-it's-good melodrama revolving around a dysfunctional Beverly Hills family. "Pilot" introduces handsome Chandler Williams (Casper Van Dien, Sleepy Hollow), a young fighter pilot who comes home to join Dad's aviation business. Plenty of surprises await, chief among them the marriage of his father (Perry King) to the sexy, scheming Heather (Yasmine Bleeth), who was once Chandler's lover. Victoria Principal plays Chandler's mom, a nightclub owner, with Elizabeth Bogush and Josie Davis as his sisters and Ingo Rademacher (General Hospital) as the club's hunky manager.
- Zap2it.com on Titans
(From Kalli)Unabashedly campy, Aaron Spelling's new soap has all the sex and excess of "90210" and "Melrose" and none of the pretense. Like a Harlequin Romance novel cover brought to life, the show about -- surprise -- a wealthy Beverly Hills family with various sordid pasts is all rock-hard abs, tease-y cleavage and bitch slaps. Just the way we like it.
- Gist.com on Titans
(From Kalli)Who among us doesn't love to see decadent, filthy-rich people in turmoil? That's what megaproducer Aaron Spelling (Dynasty; Beverly Hills, 90210) figured when he conjured up this salacious melodrama. The show centers around the bold and beautiful - and very dysfunctional - Williams family, among them handsome fighter pilot Chandler (Casper Van Dien), divorced couple Richard (Perry King) and Gwen (Victoria Principal), and conniving young stepmother Heather (Yasmine Bleeth). The havoc they wreak will be juicier than a Georgia peach in July!
- Remember the 'Titans'
(Click the title to read the article from Entertainment Weekly)
- Soapy sleaze invades family hour
(Click the title to read the article from The Cincinnati Post)
- Fall TV Preview
The Charlie Rose Show on PBS is doing a Fall TV Preview Show tonight (October 3). Check your local listings for the time.
- Elsewhere in television
(by Frazier Moore, TV Critic) `TITANS': Zillionaire industrialist Richard Williams (Perry King of ``Melrose Place''), who was married to Gwen (Victoria Principal of ``Dallas''), soon will wed yummy gold-digger Heather (Yasmine Bleeth of ``Baywatch''). But on meeting Dad's bride, hunky fighter-pilot son Chandler (Casper Van Dien) realizes she's the babe he hooked up with on vacation in Hawaii a few months ago. Now, as he walks her down the aisle to her waiting groom, Heather lets Chandler know she's carrying his child. And that's only the beginning when ``Titans'' premieres Wednesday at 8 p.m. EDT. But who cares? Dumb and overdrawn, this soap from Aaron Spelling will quickly go down the drain.
- Hits and Messes
(Click the title to read the article from Entertainment Weekly)
- THE BITCH IS BACK!
(Click the title to read the article from NY Post)
- New Shows: Washington Post
"Titans." Hey, it's the big new Aaron Spelling prime-time soap opera the show of the year! Except the year is 1978, maybe '79 at the latest. NBC programmers must have let Spelling, near-fossilized old fogey that he is, buy them too many drinks at lunch when they agreed to pick up this pathetic retread about silly rich people and their amorous adventurism. Yasmine Bleeth and Casper Van Dien are both almost laughably pretty and seem to know it, and that gives them a certain charm – but the script is ridiculous and the genre as old-hat as, well, the world's oldest hat. (Wednesdays, Oct. 4, 8 p.m.)
- The Review/Summary & Quotes
I have posted my review of the "Dysfunction Junction" episode in our episode guide section along with guest stars, writer, director etc. click here to check it out & give your rating out of 10. You can check out the quotes section for some of the good quotes from the episode as well.
- 7th Heaven
(From Blaine Greenberg, Esq.)Monday October 16, Katie Stuart is guest starring on an episode of 7th Heaven, which is the first Spelling show she was cast on . . . even before being hired as "Faith" on Titans. Also look for Katie in a guest starring role on the new season of NBC's Saturday morning series "City Guys."
- Live with Regis
Tuesday October 17, Casper Van Dien (Chandler) will be on "Live! with Regis"
- Girlfriends
Monday October 16, Jason Winston George (Scott) guest stars on the UPN sitcom Girlfriends.
- The Rosie O'Donnell Show
Monday October 16, Casper Van Dien (Chandler) will be on the "Rosie O'Donnell Show"
- New Shows
(From the St.Petersburg Times')Titans, 8 p.m. (premieres Wednesday on NBC, WFLA-Ch. 8) Casper Van Dien (Starship Troopers) is a rich kid ex-Navy pilot who unknowingly impregnates a woman (vampy Yasmine Bleeth) who eventually marries his aviation tycoon father (Melrose Place's Perry King). Silly and overblown, this Aaron Spelling-produced soap opera raises one question: Is it funny by accident or on purpose? Two stars: Because it's not absurd enough to be a guilty pleasure and not good enough to be anything else.Will it survive? With Bette Midler and Christine Baranski a channel flip away on CBS, expect the audience for campy drama to be elsewhere.
- Face values: So bad, you have to see it to believe it
(From The Record Online)"Titans" -- Cat fights, conniving, corporate intrigue -- Aaron Spelling's at it again. A young Navy man (Casper Van Dien) has a steamy fling in Hawaii with a beautiful mystery woman (Yasmine Bleeth), then comes back home to Beverly Hills only to discover that she's the fiancee of his divorced dad (Perry King). It gets worse: She's pregnant -- and guess who's the father of the baby? Mom is played by Victoria Principal, who -- thanks to the miracle of cosmetic surgery -- looks only slightly older than her grown daughters. (Debuts 8 p.m. Wednesday, NBC).
- Drama Trauma
(From the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette)Titans (Wednesday). This fatuous and unintentionally hilarious new Aaron Spelling soap is about the disgustingly rich and just plain disgusting in Beverly Hills. It takes the prize for the worst waste of airtime in the entire fall season. Yasmine Bleeth, as the Bad Girl, is swell to look at, but the show's attractions stop there. Casper Van Dien would be dangerous if he could act. A clueless Victoria Principal and a wooden Perry King are along for continuity with soap operas past.
- Lifestyles of the Rich and Heinous
(Click the title to read the article from Gist.com via The Twin Turbo Club)
- Nascar Illustrated- October
(By Larry Woody, bare in mind this is sexist & old Larry seems like a 'tool')"Hollywood actress Yasmine Bleeth was spotted in the pits during one race, making everyone who saw her wonder: Why in the world doesn't she change her name? How far would Marilyn Monroe have gotten as 'Marilyn Bleeth'? Yasmine Bleeth sounds like a gum disease. (Editors note: I've always thought her name was quite pretty) The stunning Ms. Bleeth seemed to know her NASCAR, though. She was familiar with such technical terms as 'tires,' and appeared to understand the concept of cars 'racing' around the 'track'."
- USA Today: Potential sleepers
The $treet (Fox), a Wall Street soap; Titans (NBC), Aaron Spelling's Dynasty redux; Gilmore Girls (WB), a warm mother-daughter drama; Dark Angel (Fox), James Cameron's futuristic sci-fi series.
- Cincinnati Post: Read A Book
''Titans'': Episode 1: The prodigal son returns home from the Navy to find mean rich dad with a knockout trophy fiancee he met a month ago. So guess who junior had a fling with two months before while on shore leave? And this bride walks down the aisle pregnant. And guess who the father is? Yep, our hero is looking at becoming the father of his stepbrother, which would make his father the baby's grandfather and stepdad. Aaron Spelling (''Dynasty,'' ''Beverly Hills 90210'') returns to prime time with his unique brand of sleaze. It will probably be a hit since Spelling has the genre all to himself on the current prime-time landscape. (8 p.m. Wednesdays, Oct. 4, NBC).
- Parody Or Bad Acting?
(click to read article from MSNBC)
- Interview Snippets
NBC.com has post some cool video interviews with some of the cast member check them out here
- TV's Titans Delivers Good Old Bad Behavior
(click to read article from FOX News)
- A Bold West Coast Launch Party
Bold Magazine, L.A.'s new Gen-X monthly, will celebrate its first issue with a launch party at the trendy Sunset Room in Hollywood. Guests include Casper Van Dien (Chandler, Titans), Sony Columbia Tri-Star executives, live chimpanzees, former "Baywatch" cast members including Gena Lee Nolin Traci Bingham, scream queen Julie Strain, Michael Madsen, WWF's Sable, "Survivor" cast members, Miss Hawaiian Tropic finalists with Ron Rice, Bold feature story subject L.A. Toughest Female Cop, Amber Smith ("American Beauty"), Trevor Goddard ("JAG"), Playmate Devin DeVasquez and 40 former Playmates and Penthouse Pets, cast members of "Silk Stalkings," "Highlander," "Acapulco H.E.A.T.," "Sex and the City," "General Hospital," "Dawson's Creek," "7th Heaven," "Beverly Hills, 90210," "The Bold & The Beautiful," "Walker, Texas Ranger" (Sheree Wilson), "Mortal Combat," "The Huntress," and also Hugh Hefner, Otto Models, Man Models, MTV cast members, California Models and members of the L.A. Clippers and Larry Flynt Jr. Recording artists Boogie Knights are performing with various other entertainment acts. The event takes place Thursday, Sept. 28, 2000 7 p.m. The Media is invited to talk to arrivals and guests inside.
- Spelling's 'Titans' is one funny drama
(click to read article from Rocky Mountain News)
- Van Dien's Nudist Turn
(click to read article from TV Guide)
- Five Questions With... Titans' Casper Van Dien
(click to read article from Gist.com)
- Fall TV Preview: Titans
(click to read article from Entertainment Weekly)
- Frazier Moore, AP Television Writer On Titans
``Titans'' takes the cake as the season's (unintentionally) funniest new drama. This NBC soap was created by Aaron Spelling and features Yasmine Bleeth, Victoria Principal and a circa ``Dynasty'' state of mind
- E! Online Review:
Titans NBC Wednesday, 8-9 Just when you thought reality shows were about to take over your television, Dynasty creator (and granddaddy of all that seems unreal) Aaron Spelling introduces a new glitzy prime-time soap opera. Titans has guilty pleasure written all over it, what with tons of shapely vixens and buffed boys all vying for power and sex in Beverly Hills. Former Dallas star Victoria Principal heads a cast of folks whose looks far outweigh their acting skills, including Casper Van Dien, John Barrowman, Yasmine Bleeth, Elizabeth Bogush and Josie Davis. But that's just fine. Chances are, viewers won't be tuning in to this for award-caliber acting. Bookies are standing by to take bets on the number of episodes before the first catfight.
- Harper's Bazaar Magazine:
The October issue features a photo shoot of the cast of the new TV show "Titans" at producer Aaron Spelling's home. Look for it on newsstands Tuesday September, 26.
- Aaron On Reality TV:
The success of reality shows is putting a lot of actors, writers, producers and crews out of business in the short term, "but it would be a long-term disaster if we find ourselves dealing with only three comedies, four dramas and the rest reality shows," says veteran producer Aaron Spelling, whose latest drama serial is Titans on NBC.
- Ingo Wins The Triathalon:
(From Karen via ingorademacher.net)Ingo Rademacher won the men's individual celebrity division of the 14th annual Nautica Malibu Triathlon Sunday Sept. 17, 2000. Proceeds from the race benefit the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation. Some others scheduled to participate included San Francisco 49ers quarterback Steve Young, Frankie Muniz of"Malcolm in the Middle", Jose Solano of "Baywatch," Scott Wolf of "Party of Five," Debra Jo Rupp of "That 70's Show," and Esai Morales of TNT's "Elian Gonzalez Story".
- Soap Opera Weekly: Winners & Losers
(From Sandy)Winner: Titans. Great cast. Great boss (Mr. Spelling). Great promos. We smell a hit.
- Casting Directors Interview/Chat
October 5 from 2 - 4PM PST- Join Michette for an interview/chat with casting directors Mark Paladini and Fern Champion. They are currently casting the Aaron Spelling series, "Titans." Their credits include "The Mask", "Babylon 5", "Spy Hard", "Beverly Hills, 90210", "Friday 13th, V and VI", Cheech & Chong Nice Dreams" . . .Find out what it takes to bring the right talent to these productions. Click this link to vist the site for some past interviews Michette has done.
http://www.nwez.net/michette/michette.htm
- I saw Titans last night
Here's a couple thing on it (not spoilers)
-It was worth the wait it's a good show. (Thank god I don't have to watch Nash anymore).
-Priscilla Garita (ex-Gabi, SB) is not in the pilot. They redid the scenes with Lourdes in her place.
-The nightclub is called Pulse & the first act to perform there was Box (or something like that).
-This is a great vehcile for Yasmine, She'll definately be the woman you love to hate.
-I liked almost everyone on the show my favorites so far are Jenny, Samantha & of course Heather.
I'll have a review/summary up sometime this afternoon & after you've scene the show come & rate it at this site (in the episode guide).
- Later with Cynthia Garrett
Tuesday October 3, Casper Van Dien (Chandler) & Elizabeth Bogush (Jenny) will appear on Later with Cynthia Garrett on NBC
- Happy Birthday Jack
Happy Birthday to Jack Wagner (Jack, Titans) who turns 41 October 3.
- October TV Schedules
The October TV schedules for Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner, Perry King & Kevin Zegers have been posted. This covers shows & movies other then Titans that feature those stars airing thru the month October. Check out the left hand column under "On TV" for your favorites.
- Entertainment Weekly Cover
Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) is on the cover of this weeks Entertainment Weekly magazine. It's the fall tv preview issue.
- 'Remember The Titans'
Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) & Ingo Rademacher (David) will be attending the world premiere of 'Remember The Titans' at the Rose Bowl in LA on Saturday September 23, 2000. Other celebs in attendance will include Denzel Washington (the films star), Sean Penn, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kelly Preston, Micheal Boatman & Freddie Prince Jr.
- Mediaweek Review:
(From Joe Gonga)Titans (NBC) Time slot: Wednesdays, 8 p.m. Creator: Aaron Spelling The skinny: "Primetime serials can no longer play like Dallas or Dynasty, which now seem quite a bit old-fashioned," Spelling has said. "I think people love to laugh at the problems rich people have, and that is exactly our goal on Titans." Content: The drama never ends in Spelling's Beverly Hills. Meet the wealthy and gorgeous Williams family, lorded over by aviation magnate Richard and his ex-wife Gwen (Victoria Principal), who lives in the fabulous mansion across the street from Richard's own. They maintain a civil relationship for the sake of their four kids: navy hunk and golden boy Chandler (Casper Van Dien), hostile math wiz Peter, responsible butch Laurie and party girl Jenny. Then Richard marries mysterious femme fatale Heather (Yasmine Bleeth), who shares a past with Chandler and surely has plans for the Williams clan. Deliciously ugly behavior is certain to ensue. Mr. TV: First, and foremost, NBC must remember that serialized shows (Dallas; Beverly Hills, 90210, etc.) need time to build. With that in mind, I would recommend Titans to any viewer looking for an over-the-top and entertaining way to get over the weekly hump. Opposite Millionaire on ABC and Bette on CBS, this could clearly be the ingredient NBC needs (if patience is a virtue) to amplify its already potent Wednesday. Although it won't win any Emmys, Titans could attract viewers if word of mouth spreads. Odds: 5-1
- Titans Compatibility Test:
See if your a match for with your favorite Titans star Here!
- Promo Songs:
Everyone keeps asking about the songs in the promo. One is "Unbelieveable" by EMF, one is "Bitch" by Meredith Brooks and the other is "6 Underground" by Sneaker Pimps
- Yasmine On The Tonight Show
Tuesday October 3, 2000 Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) will be on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno
- TV Guide Fall Preview
(From Wagnerworld.com)
For a preview of "Titans", pick up the September 16-22 issue of TV Guide magazine.
- RealNetworks: RealPlayer GoldPass Subscription
Subscribers will receive Break TV with exclusive behind the scenes footage of popular prime time TV shows and interviews with stars including Yasmine Bleeth (Titans). http://www.realnetworks.com
- TV Guide Canada: Titans
Superwealthy, bitter divorced couple Richard and Gwen Williams (Perry King and Victoria Principal, right) battle for the affections of their children, including prodigal son Chandler (Casper Van Dien). Catfight potential arrives in the form of Heather (Yasmine Bleeth), a tramp who happens to be engaged to dad Richard, but slept with Chandler. In Episode 2, Richard makes way for Jack Wagner as his scheming brother. The show is from the lurid mind of Aaron Spelling (credit? You name it) who, when asked about the plotlines, joked: "Qu'est-ce que c'est trashy?" Bottom Line: The show's two main assets (pun intended) are Bleeth. Principal adds a touch of class, but Van Dien's performance is so wooden that a Pinocchio storyline isn't out of the question. "Titans" also runs the risk of being too silly. The six viewers not watching "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" will probably head over to "Bette." Rating: 6 (out of 10)
- Zap2it: Titans
Television advertising has never been so right. Pegged as this fall's "guilty pleasure," "Titans" brings back the primetime soap in full glory with Yasmine Bleeth marrying into a powerful family -- even though she had an affair with her new husband's son. Casper Van Dien is the son with a secret and Perry King is the father. Slated to join the series is Jack Wagner ("Melrose Place") as King's brother. What's Cool: Former "Dallas" vixen Victoria Principal is back doing what she does best -- causing trouble and breaking up relationships.
- Another Titans Review
(from David)``Titans'' (NBC, Oct. 4). Yeah, I'm kidding. Sort of. But in terms of compulsively watchable TV, meaning scene after scene you have to see to believe and then howl at, this latest prime-time soap opera from schlockmeister Aaron Spelling is the new season's crowning achievement. Does Yasmine Bleeth as the scheming, vixen-in-a-white-bikini/trophy bride to a Beverly Hills airline magnate suggest anything special to you? So over-the-top bad, it's an instant classic.
- Retro Dynasty?
(click to read article from the Toledo Blade via David)
- Gems For Sale
(from PageSix)There are two ways to unload your jewels. Candy Spelling, wife of "Dynasty" creator Aaron Spelling, will soon have Sotheby's auction off about 12 lots from her collection, including a '50s-era ruby and diamond necklace valued at $120,000, and a floral-cluster diamond necklace expected to draw $55,000.
- ET Monday
Get your steamy first look at the cast in all of their fashionable glory on Monday's edition of Entertainment Tonight -- including one tantalizing photo shoot to remember!
- ET: Clash Of The TV Titans
(click to read article from Entertainment Tonight)
- TV's New Sexiest Stars
(click to read article from Star Magazine via Mancini2000)
- Star Magazine: The Hot...& Not So Hot
(From Mancini2000)Winners: Titans (Wednesdays, 8pm, NBC) From Aaron Spelling, the man who brought you The Love Boat, Charlie's Angeles, and Dynasty, comes this latest flashy nighttime soap starring Yasmine Bleeth, Victoria Principal, and Casper Van Dien. "Oh man, what can I say," laughs Bianculli (TV critc for New York Daily News). "I can't wait to see the first episode. I missed the genre. If Yasmine wants to be evil, I want to watch!"
- All-Star Bloopers
Saturday, September 23 at 10pm/9c, ABC is airing a Bloopers special which will have some clips from the daytime soap opera General Hospital. Ingo Rademacher (David, Titans/ex-Jax, GH) may appear in some.
- Yasmine On Oprah
Yasmine was on The Oprah Winfrey Show today (9/14) for about two minutes via video. It was a teen makeover show and Yasmine touch on her style growing up. Among other things Yasmine said she went thru a Madonna/Micheal Jackson phase for a few months and she did an homage to Prince. She also wanted Farrah Fawcett hair but her mother wouldn't let her. Mom made her wear it in a pony tail. One boy played with the pony tail, spinning it as he called it the "helicopter". Her funny side came across well & Oprah put in a little plug for Titans when it was over.
- Access Hollywood: Titans
(From PT)If looks could kill ratings -- then this show is convicted! And if looks were all it took, ‘Titans’ is a sure hit. Yasmine Bleeth, Victoria Principal, Jack Wagner and Casper Van Dien star in this web of drama, scandal, sex and betrayal ... all the makings of a hit nighttime soap. NBC attempts to bring back this type of programming, hoping viewers will surrender to steamy plots. Creator Aaron Spelling calls it 'a marvelous combination of fashion and passion.' This combination and a cast that has looks to kill are sure to make viewers last more than five minutes. ‘Titans’ premieres Wednesday, October 4 at 8:00 p.m. and is followed by NBC’s award-winning ‘The West Wing.’
- Hasselhoff On Wagner
(From the Village Voice)"I think Jack Wagner was the better Jekyll than Sebastian Bach , but both did very well. Come see the show and tell me who you think is a better Jekyll."
- New Fall TV: What's Hot, What's Not
(from Gist.com)What's Hot: Titans, NBC, Premiere Wednesday, October 4, 8-9 pm ET TV critics are declaring Aaron Spelling's sexy new primetime soap this season's guilty pleasure. And, oh, what a pleasure it is. Former Baywatch babe Yasmine Bleeth is wonderfully wicked in the role of a conniving vixen set to marry a wealthy Beverly Hills mogul (Perry King). Little does her future husband know that his soon-to-be-wife only recently slipped between the sheets with his Navy fighter-pilot son (Casper Van Dien). A great cast also includes Victoria Principal, the ex-Dallas diva, and Melrose Place alum Jack Wagner.
- John Barrowman- Glamour Magazine
(from twinturboclub.com)
"How many families do you know where everyone's wealthy, good-looking, drives kick-ass cars and never gets a pimple?" asks John Barrowman, who can only think of one: the Williams family on the Dynasty- inspired Titans (NBC, Wednesdays, 8pm EST). The Scottish-born single actor, who's played a borderline gigolo in Sunset Boulevard on Broadway and a mensch on the 1995 nighttime soap Central Park West, stars as Peter Williams, the conniving son of an entrepreneur. "I've only played good two-shoes. I'm so ready to be a bad guy!" exclaims Barrowman, 32, who will lie, cheat, scheme andmatch wits with his wicked stepmother, Heather (Yasmine Bleeth). But offscreen, there's no family fued. In fact, Bleeth recently introduced him to the joys of karaoke. "I sang 'Like A Virgin' - it was my first time," Barrowman confesses with a grin." The October Issue of Glamour Magazine is on stands now.
- NBC Trying New Approach Against ABC
(click to read article from the Philly News)
- It Happened To Me
(From Kenny)
"It Happened To Me" The sad reason Yasmine Bleeth became a breast-cancer-awareness advocate is in this month's Jane magazine (September issue pg.134)
- George Moonlighting
Jason Winston George (Scott, Titans/ex-Michael, Sunset Beach) appears on the series premiere of the UPN comedy Girlfriends on Monday, September 11th.
- NBC fall sked bowing Oct. 2
(Click the title to read the article)
- Chandler's InStyle
Casper Van Dien, who plays Titans' Chandler Williams has made the September issue of InStyle magazine. Casper & wife Catherine Ozenberg are pictured at the fashion show debut of the Barish Nicholson collection.
- Chicago Boutique Chic
(From The Chicago Suntimes)Wanna get your favorite gal something impossibly cute and unique? P.45, 1643 N. Damen, proves that Wicker Park still has it. The store, owned by Jessica Darrow and Tricia Tunstall, exhibits a keen eye for designs that you won't find at department stores--which is why rocker Liz Phair and actresses Laura Dern and Yasmine Bleeth all are fans. Diane Lane, who's in town shooting ``Hardball,'' also stopped by recently to have a look at the clothes and promised to return.
- Talk About Your Witch Hunts!
(From Lora via Eonline)Rumors persist that Joan Collins is being courted to revive her Dynasty character, Alexis Carrington, for Aaron Spelling's upcoming NBC series Titans, but my sources tell me the network's first blast-from-the-past pick is Donna Mills. Mills, who starred as the calculating, clothes-shedding diva Abby Fairgate on CBS' prime-time soap Knots Landing, is being pursued by the network to revive her role--which, if both actresses are signed, could lead to either an offscreen diva conflict or one helluva classic onscreen catfight!
- Star Style: Take It or Leave It
(From Soap Opera Digest)Aandra Rodman, stylist from the Oscar Blandi Salon in New York City, tells how to (or wether not to) duplicate star 'dos at home. Josie Davis (Laurie, Titans) likes it short and sleak. Take it: "If Someone is willing to cut their hair off," said Rodman, "this is an easy look to work with." Here's how to maintain your Josie do: 1. After you come out of the shower, put some mousse in your hair. 2. Rough dry it (sweep the blow dryer over your hair for three minutes). 3. Apply pomade in your hair for direction and shine (Magic Move by Supremo is great). This should take about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Newsweek On Titans
Aaron Spelling's "Titans" (NBC) -- The ridiculous dialogue and plot twists veer dangerously close to camp, but the cast is always lovely to look at (Victoria Principal, Yasmine Bleeth, Casper Van Dien and Perry King).
- Bleeth Burns Bridges
(Click the title to read the new article)
- Alexis Carrington Returns?
(From TVGuide.com)Aaron Spelling is considering adding Joan Collins to the cast of his upcoming NBC soap, Titans, possibly as her former Dynasty alter ego, Alexis Carrington. "There is no confirmation of Joan Collins being on Titans either as her old character or at all," an NBC rep tells TV Guide Online. "Her name has been tossed around, but no offer has gone out and nothing can be confirmed." As Dynasty's creator, Spelling likely owns the rights to the Alexis character. Collins is slated to reprise her role as interior designer Helena Barnes on NBC's Will & Grace this season.
- The Darker Face of the Earth
(from Reuters/Variety)Jason George (Scott, Titans) can currently be seen at the American Renegade Theatre in L.A. playing Augustus Newcastle in a play that is based on the myth of Oedipus and written by Pulitzer-winning poet Rita Dove. "The Darker Face of the Earth" is set on a Southern plantation amid the era of slavery. In the prologue, the mistress of the estate, Amalia, has proudly given birth to a mulatto child, sending her husband, Louis LaFarge, into a rage. A very practical doctor convinces Amalia that she can't keep the child, and he takes the baby off in a basket, telling the slaves that the infant has died. Twenty years later, the child returns, in the form of a rebellious, educated slave named Augustus Newcastle, whom Amalia purchases, neither knowing they are mother and son. Amalia, once a defiant rule-breaker herself, has become a cold and cruel slave driver, but the handsome, sophisticated Augustus brings her back to life, reminding her of her love for his father, Hector, who has become a demented hermit living on the fringes of the estate. The play runs through Septenber 17 and tickets are $22.
- Aaron & Yasmine on Survivor
(From Canoe.ca)Aaron Spelling: "I'd do the next Survivor if it was the one in space." Yasmine Bleeth: "I'd have killed them all in a week and that would have been the end of that."
- Titans In The UK?
(From Gavin)It appears the deal to air Titans in the United Kingdom has fallen thru. There is however an online campaign to get it aired in the UK. Visit http://www.geocities.com/coftt/titans_campaign.htm to sign a petition.
- An Actor's Best Friend
(From The Philly News)We thought it was all about the hair for hunky actor Casper Van Dien, but guess what - it's all about the breath. Van Dien, a star of the upcoming prime-time soap "Titans," was recently taping a racy promotion for the NBC series in which he had to get close to co-star Yasmine Bleeth. "They're on this daybed, and he keeps yelling out, 'Binaca! Binaca!,' " an observer gossiped to New York magazine. Somebody offered Van Dien an Altoid, but the actor could only grumble, "It's just not the same." Yasmine, your thoughts?
- MVP: Most Valuable Primate
Kevin Zegers' (Ethan) new movie MVP is now playing in theatres in Canada. Be sure to check it out if you are a fellow Canuck. Look for it to open in the U.S.A sometime in October.
- Elizabeth Bogush Interview
Elizabeth, who plays Titans' Jenny Williams, just did an interview with Glamour magazine that will be out in the October issue. Seventeen is also doing a small feature, look for that in the coming months.
- Promo Songs:
Everyone keeps asking about the songs in the promo. One is "Bitch" by Meredith Brooks and the other is "6 Underground" by Sneaker Pimps
- Glamour magazine:
SPORTS Illustrated swimsuit stunner Michelle Behennah is one lucky model. She'll be paired with six of TV's hottest hunks for a sexy spread in Glamour magazine's October issue. Behennah will drape herself over Charlie Sheen of "Spin City," Henry Simmons of "NYPD Blue," Eddie Chibrian of "Third Watch," Jason Behr of "Roswell," Tom Everett Scott of "The Street," and John Barrowman of "Titans."
- Entertainment Tonight
(From Linda & Moira)Entertainment Tonight is going behind the scenes of Titans with star Victoria Principal on tomorrow (Friday September 15)
- Wagner finds place on 'Titans'
(From The Hollywood Reporter via Veronica)Jack Wagner (''Melrose Place'') has joined the cast of NBC's ''Dynasty''-style primetime drama ''Titans.'' The series, produced by Spelling TV and NBC Studios, tells the story of a wealthy Beverly Hills family that owns an aviation company. Wagner, who will be introduced as a regular in the second episode, will play a brother to the head of the family, played by Perry King. This is a reunion for ''Melrose Place'' alumni King and Wagner and ''Melrose'' executive producer Aaron Spelling. Wagner's soap opera track record also includes eight seasons on ''General Hospital'' and two on ''Santa Barbara.'' Repped by WMA, Wagner recently starred in the TBS original movie ''Nowhere to Land.''
- Josie Davis: One To Watch
(From GS)Josie Davis has been named as one of People Magazine's Fall Faces to Watch in the August 23, 2000 issue. Keep an eye out for the magazine.
- Yasmine In Allure?
According to people on the Yaz mailing list (http://www.egroups.com/group/YAZ), there is a picture of Yasmine in the new September issue of Allure magazine. I haven't been able to find it yet, but it's the one with Heather Locklear (Spin City, Melrose Place) on the cover. There was no mention to wether there was an article with it or not. Keep your eyes open for it.
- They Know Jack
(From Soap Opera Digest)JACK WAGNER (ex-Frisco, GH; ex-Peter, Melrose Place) has been added to the regular cast of the upcoming primetime sudser Titans, NBC has confirmed. Wagner will play Jack Williams, who returns to Beverly Hills when he hears of his estranged older brother's recent wedding to a younger woman (YASMINE BLEETH). This gig reunites Wagner with Melrose Executive Producer AARON SPELLING, who will also serve as Titans' chief exec.
- Last Minute Casting Shake Up
(From Laura) (by Kristen Baldwin of EW.com)Two months before NBC's ''Dynasty''-esque drama ''Titans'' hits the airwaves, the Aaron Spelling soap is undergoing a major casting change. According to a source close to the show, 52 year old Perry King (''Riptide'') -- who costars as Richard Williams, the wealthy new husband of a conniving younger woman, played by Yasmine Bleeth -- will depart after four episodes (likely via an untimely demise) and will be replaced by ''Melrose Place'' and ''General Hospital'' vet Jack Wagner, 40. The former Frisco Jones (and Dr. Jekyll) will step in as Richard's younger brother, the new owner of the Williams family comglomerate and an eventual love interest for Bleeth. The idea for the casting change came from NBC. Says one network insider, ''The show needed more mean people, and Jack Wagner plays a really good bad guy.'' Before they could settle on Wagner, however, execs took a list of several possible replacements to Spelling's camp, and the choice was finally made on July 31. ''It took a lot of convincing,'' says the ''Titans'' source, ''but now everybody's happy.'' Well, maybe not everybody.
- Titans Filming Date:
(From Yasmine Bleeth) Titans will begin production on August 7. It was originally set to start July 7 but due to recent cast additions it was bumped back.
- Actor Perry King Unhurt After Racing Accident
(Click the title to read the new article)
- The Truth On Garita?
(From Troy Hamilton; source Soap Opera Digest)The reason Priscilla Garita got fired as Samantha is because Lourdes was available. Supposedly Lourdes was their first choice and Priscilla knew that. Lourdes was doing another pilot, which didn't work out and Aaron Spelling found out that Lourdes was available, they quickly replaced Priscilla with her. Though former Sunset Beach vixen PRISCILLA GARITA (ex-Gabi) will appear in the pilot episode of the upcoming NBC nighttime sudser Titans, the role of Samantha Sierras will be played by actress LOURDES BENEDICTO (NYPD Blue) in subsequent episodes. "Priscilla was a marvelous Samantha," Executive Producer AARON SPELLING tells Soap Opera Digest, "but Lourdes is just special."
- Jason George Info
(From Troy Hamilton; source Soap Opera Digest)According to Aaron Spelling, Jason George will have a lot of airtime after the pilot. He will play Scott, Chandler's (Casper van dien) best-friend. They say Scott will become romantically involved with someone.
- Must See TV Preview
Tonight on NBC there is a half-hour show previewing the upcoming fall season and Titans will be one of the featured shows. It airs at 8:30 in my area but check your local listings just to make sure.
- King On Will & Grace
Perry King guest stars as Jack's father on NBC's Will & Grace Thurday August 31.
- Goodbye Jax, Hello David
(From Soap Opera Digest)Ingo Rademacher's last airdate as Jasper "Jax" Jacks on the ABC's soap General Hospital is August 28. Next stop Titans.
- New Titans Promo(s)
Access Hollywood debuted a new steamy Titans ad featuring Yasmine Bleeth (Heather) & Casper Van Dien (Chandler) today (08/10/00). It's a definite must see. There where also ads with Ingo Rademacher, Elizabeth Bogush & Josie Davis as a triangle, Victoria & Yasmine starring each other down & a group ad with Elizabeth Bogush, John Barrowman, Yasmine, Victoria, Josie & Casper. If anyone knows the names of the songs in the ads please let us know.
- More Collins Rumors:
(From Adam Ghani) I am happy to tell you that Joan Collins will be transplanting her DYNASTY character Alexis Colby into Aaron Spelling's new soap TITANS and this time Alexis will have some dealings with Chandler (Casper Van Dien) to take over his fathers empire.
- Yaz in Entertainment Weekly
In the August 4, 2000 issue (with Phish on the cover) There's a picture on Yasmine in a red dress from the NBC Press Tour in the "News & Notes" section and a comment about Titans from Yasmine. Also look for Yasmine in TV Guide and Harpers Bazaar and on the cover of Entertainment Weekly as the fall season approaches.
- 'GH's' Jax Wild For New Role on 'Titans'
(Click the title to read the new article)
- CBS sitcom rated fall's most likely hit:
(From Laura Cuellar, Source Hollywood Reporter) NEW YORK -- Though CBS' Bette Midler comedy and remake of "The Fugitive" and ABC's Geena Davis comedy come close, none of the 32 primetime series scheduled to debut in the fall has "hit" written on it in the fall 2000 primetime preview being officially released today by OMD USA Media Research Group. The annual report was written by Mike Greco, manager of broadcast research for OMD USA, the media service firm of Omnicom. Greco quantified the new series' odds of success with numbers, with 5 being a prediction that the series is certain to be a hit. His highest rating -- a 4.5 -- goes to "The Bette Show," in which Midler will play a character much like her over-the-top self. Greco gives a success rating of 4, which he said means the odds are good, to ABC's "Geena" and CBS' "Fugitive." Getting a "borderline" success rating of 3.5 each are NBC's "Tucker," Fox's "The Street" and the WB Network's "Gilmore Girls." Receiving a rating of 3 each are CBS' "Mr. New York," "C.S.I." and "The District"; NBC's "DAG," "Cursed," "Saturday Night Movie," "Ed" and "Titans"; Fox's "Boston Public" and "Night Vision"; UPN's "Girlfriend"; and the WB Network's "Hype." Also designating borderline odds is the 2.5 success rating, which was given to ABC's "Gideon's Crossing," CBS' "That's Life," Fox's "Don't Ask" and "Fearsum" and the WB Network's "Grosse Pointe."
- About character of David O'Connor, Ingo & what's up:
(From Karen, Source July 18 issue of Soap Opera Digest) "We had been talking about a number of people [for the role] that NBC didn't agree on, or I didn't agree on, and the moment I sent them Ingo's tape, they went crazy," reveals Spelling. "I don't mean they liked him --they loved him. It was the easiest casting we'd ever done."According to Spelling, Rademacher will show up in episode two. "We wanted a handsome, smart young man to help the two younger sisters, played by Josie Davis [ex-Camille, BEVERLY HILLS 90210 ex-Grace, YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS] and Elizabeth Bogush [who guested on FELICITY and 90210], run their nightclub -- a very hip club, where we're going to have bands play. So, he comes in to help them run it as the manager. Then we start a triangle between he, Josie and Elizabeth." A front-burner one, at that.
- Ingo Appearance:
Ingo Rademacher will be appearing at the Festival Flea Market Mall on Saturday, August 12 from noon-3pm. They are located at 2900 W. Sample Rd, in Pompano Beach, Florida. Exit#69 on the Turnpike. More details to follow. Visit their website at www.shopfestival.com
- Yasmine Magazine:
(From Eve) The latest issue of TV Guide "Celebrity Dish" has Yasmine on the cover
- Celebrity Dish II:
(From PT)This program airs again on August 6. Check your local listings for the time in your area. The hour long special which airs on the Food Network includes celebrities John Spencer (West Wing) , Nancy O'Dell (Access Hollywood), Jack Wagner (Titans) and Yasmine Bleeth (Titans). The guests share their food interests with the viewers.
- Off The Record
Monday July 31, Kevin Zegers (recently added to the cast as Ethan) will be on TSN's "Off The Record" in Canada. It's like Bill Maher's Politically Incorrect only it's about Sports instead of current events.
- CAST GRUMBLING SPELLING BAD NEWS FOR 'TITANS'
(From Cindy Adams of PageSix)WE speak of "Titans," Aaron Spelling's new hotshot TV series with Yasmine Bleeth, Victoria Principal, Perry King. The Master producer of goodies like "Dynasty" and that "90210" thing is used to the growing pains of all first-episode start-up shows. His cast, not. There exists grumbling, mumbling and bumbling. Although still in the baby stages, the show has problems on the set. Despite story lines and characters barely taking their first steps, a decision's about been made to kill off Perry King's character after five episodes and make the gorgeous to-die-for Yasmine Bleeth the single centerpiece. As in, load on the romance. Sexual problems. More bosom, more leg, more butt, more lovers, more cleavage, less clothes, etc. Another snit is Victoria's contract. It provides she needn't work more than three days a week. Thus, everything has to shoot around her. Thus, it's becoming a big pain - even in the behind of yummy Yasmine, who, as I've indicated, will be flashing that part of her anatomy more and more.
- New Casting
(From Zentertainment) NBC's new primetime Spelling Soap TITANS has signed Lourdes Benedicto (NYPD Blue) to play Samantha Sierras, a young, driven executive assistant to wealthy patriarch Richard Williams (Perry King) and Kevin Zegers (Air Bud) as Ethan, the teenaged nephew of club owner Gwen Williams and Elise Horn guest stars as Monica Bastion. Lourdes takes over the role Priscilla Garita had in the pilot.
- Victoria On E.T.
There will be an interview with Victoria Principal tonight (July 24) on Entertainment Tonight. Check your local listings for the air time.
- Priscilla Rumors:
I have gotten many emails saying Priscilla Garita has been "uncast". There has been no official press release either way on that but all my sources say she is still with the show.
- Celebrity Dish II:
Be sure to check your local listings for TV Guide's Celebrity Dish II. The hour long special which airs on the Food Network includes celebrities John Spencer (West Wing) , Nancy O'Dell (Access Hollywood), Jack Wagner (Melrose, GH) and Yasmine Bleeth (Titans). The guests share their food interests with the viewers.
- Providence
Friday July 14, Victoria Principal (Gwen, Titans/ex-Pam, Dallas) continues her guest-starring stint on NBC's Providence.
- Will & Grace:
July 6, JOAN COLLINS (ex-Alexis, Dynasty/possible Titans character) guest stars on NBC's Will & Grace.
- Ingo Goes Titanic:
General Hospital star, Ingo Rademacher will make the move to prime time next fall in the upcoming NBC series Titans. Rademacher will play David O’Connor, the devilishly handsome manager of the night club owned by Titans matriarch Gwen Williams (Victoria Principal).
- John Barrowman Musical:
(From Tony) "Putting It Together" is scheduled for broadcast on Pay-Per-View September 10th, 2000.
- Yasmine Film:
(From P.T.) COMING SOON, a movie in which Yasmine has a small part, opened on June 16th at the Laemmle Sunset 5 in Los Angeles, CA!! If you live in LA or nearby, spread the word and come opening week-end! Box office numbers on the 16th, 17th, and 18th of June will help determine how long COMING SOON plays in California.
- Yasmine Sighting:
(From P.T.) According to the NY Post DAVID ("Baywatch") Charvet celebrating his birthday at Indochine with Yasmine Bleeth and Kylie Bax.
- Joan Collins:
(From K.E.) Rumor has it Joan Collins will appear in the role of Alexis Colby (her Dynasty character) on Titans. This is only a rumor at this point as there has yet to be an press release on it.
- Elizabeth Bogush Film:
"Eastside" featuring Elizabeth Bogush opened in one L.A. theatre over the weekend. "Eastside" is a low-budget redemption tale that offers up a warm-'n'-fuzzy twist on the life of an inner-city hoodlum. The movie also stars Mario Lopez and will soon be out in video form.
- Wagner Sues Spelling:
Actor Robert Wagner has sued Aaron Spelling Prods. for $20 million, alleging that he was cheated out of profits on the phenomenally successful Fox television show 'Beverly Hills, 90210.' Wagner claims he is entitled to profits as part of a 10-year-old settlement between Spelling and Fox, under which Spelling got the right to produce 'Beverly Hills 90210' in exchange for 'Angels 88,' a never-produced series in which Wagner had a participation.
- Titans On TV:
(From Pamela) This article is from the Irish newspaper, the Sunday World. Its about the different shows that British and Irish channels will be buying this year. It looks as though Sky1 or Channel 4 will be bidding for Titans.Soap guru Aaron Spelling ( Dynasty, Melrose Place, Beverly Hills 90210), has created yet another money-sex-intrigue pilot with Titans. Victoria Principal, Dallas Queen, heads the cast along with ex-Baywatch hot thing, Yasmine Bleeth and Starship Troopers hunk Casper VanDien. However, Titans is up against the US version of Who wants to be a Millionaire? which will be running four nights a week on ABC this autumn. The danger of bidding on Titans then it is that it could be axed in the US after just one season if Who Wants to be a Millionaire? proves to be just as big a hit as it is in Britain.
- Happy Birthday Yaz
Yasmine Bleeth turned 32 on June 14, 2000
- Titans On TV
(From Pamela) This article is from the Irish newspaper, the Sunday World. Its about the different shows that British and Irish channels will be buying this year. It looks as though Sky1 or Channel 4 will be bidding for Titans.Soap guru Aaron Spelling ( Dynasty, Melrose Place, Beverly Hills 90210), has created yet another money-sex-intrigue pilot with Titans. Victoria Principal, Dallas Queen, heads the cast along with ex-Baywatch hot thing, Yasmine Bleeth and Starship Troopers hunk Casper VanDien. However, Titans is up against the US version of Who wants to be a Millionaire? which will be running four nights a week on ABC this autumn. The danger of bidding on Titans then it is that it could be axed in the US after just one season if Who Wants to be a Millionaire? proves to be just as big a hit as it is in Britain.
- Titans Picked-up
NBC has pick-up Titans and it will air on Wednesday nights at 8:00 starting in the fall. The main competion for Titians will be Who Wants To Be A Millionaire
- Casper Movie News
According to Variety, CASPER VAN DIEN will star in the feature film Goin' Back for director Sidney Furie
- Casper Movie News
Casper Van Dien (Chandler) recently finished shooting the indie flick Partners with City Slickers' David Paymer
- Casting Breakdown
Here's a casting breakdown for the major roles on Titans, a prime-time soap pilot Aaron Spelling and Charles Pratt Jr. (Melrose Place, Sunset Beach, Santa Barbara) are producing for NBC. The core characters include: patriarch Richard Davis, a dashing man in peak physical condition who owns Global Air; his ex-wife, Gwen, 51, who runs a nightclub with their twin daughters, Lindsay (who is sexually inexperienced) and Jenny (an alcoholic); biological son Mason (who is bookish) and adopted son Chandler (cunning; think Adam Carrington on Dynasty); Richard's fiancée, Heather, who isn't happy that Gwen and the girls are living across the street; Samantha, an Audrey Hepburn-type who is the daughter of Delia, the longtime Davis family maid; and Billy Bastion, a duplicitous man Jenny meets at an AA meeting. Production begins in early March.
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