Why am I blogging about this? Because in my job here, the most famous and/or influential person I've interviewed was Al Franken, to whom I asked this very question. Follow the last link for the video of his visit to Fresno.
January 2007 Archives
January 31, 2007 5:32 PMWill
This nugget from mine and H-Mac's trip to L.A. for our World Series of Pop Culture audition was too good not to share:
"What's your signature dish?"
Hmmm. Great question. What is the signature dish at Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles? Ya know, I bet the Chicken Pie Shop gets that question all the time.
Mike Oz
I'm so moving to Ft. Worth, Texas. We have gangs, smog and people attacking teachers in our headlines. This city's newspaper reports when four towels and an ashtray are taken from a freaking Motel 6.
(Sure, the locator map is the clincher, but props go to the reporter's lede.)
Will
Some folks here in the newsroom are having a debate about whether this video of a bride-to-be going nuts and cutting off her hair is real or another lonelygirl15. What says you? Real or fake?
Mike Oz
Last May, when I wrote about Visalia native and musical-theater veteran Betsy Wolfe, she was spelling her way to success in an open-ended run of "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" in San Francisco. (If you don't yet have the original cast album with music by William Finn, put it on your list, by the way.) I wrote:
These are heady days for Wolfe in more ways than one. Landing the lead role in the West Coast company of "Spelling Bee" -- a gig that outranks even a national tour -- is good résumé fodder. After vaulting from local theater in Visalia and Fresno during junior high and high school to a stint at the prestigious Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, she has racked up an impressive series of credits, including "A Wonderful Life" and an understudy role in "Spelling Bee" on Broadway. She made her Carnegie Hall debut as a headliner with the Cincinnati Pops and has been a soloist with the Detroit, Indianapolis and New Haven orchestras.
Now she's got even better news.
Continue reading A busy time for Betsy Wolfe.
Donald Munro
Mike: So I suppose we should post something about what happened at our tryout for the World Series of Pop Culture.
Heather: We definitely should. There's just one teeny-tiny problem: Confidentiality agreement.
Mike: Confidentiality agreement schmalmity agreement!! VH1 will not censor me! Ever! I'm a man of the people and will tell the people whatever I want.
Heather: Calm down there, Crazy. So we can't talk about the test we took. However, we can talk about what happened before and after the test. So let's talk about nerds, dorks and those who have never before experienced the touch of a woman. I'm talking, of course, about our competition.
Continue reading Mike Oz and H-Mac: Destiny Fulfilled?.
Heather
Are we in Hollywood yet? Not quite. Last night's "American Idol" was in Birmingham -- or "Idol country" as they call it. Here to break down the good, the bad and the freaky of "Idol" is the Beehive's Mike Oz and Felicia Matlosz.
Felicia says:
I'm starting to tire of the "American Idol" audition shows and wish we could just get to Hollywood. Tuesday night's edition in Birmingham, Ala. was weak. But at least the city can boast more AI finalists (winners Taylor Hicks and Ruben Studdard and runner-up Bo Bice) than any other city. So, maybe you caught a glimpse of a real contender last night ... or maybe you just spent another hour on Paula Abdul crash-and-burn watch.
Continue reading American Idol: Birmingham.
Mike Oz
The first time Ted Neeley, aka Jesus Christ, makes his appearance in "Jesus Christ Superstar," the crowd goes wild. It's to be expected, of course. The audience is clapping for the white robe as much as the actor. Criss-crossed by blinding spotlights, the character stands out like a floating white vision against the murky, industrial-steel set and cheery, hippie-bright-meets-Pottery-Barn-earth-toned costumes worn by the rest of the ensemble.
With the familiar melody of the title song announcing the character's entrance, you could put any reasonably Christlike figure up there on stage and get a warm welcome.
But as this somewhat creaky, museum-relic of a show unfolds, Neeley demonstrates that he's still filled with the spirit, even though he's played this role literally thousands of times. (The production will be repeated 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Saroyan Theatre.)
Continue reading Theater review: O holy night.
Donald Munro
I still couldn't pick Sienna Miller out in a line upI still couldn't pick Sienna Miller out in a line up
Because there is really nothing at all going on in the gossip world (Kevin Nealon and his wife having a baby does not count), here is a collection of photos featuring Sienna Miller wearing what amounts to a yeti sweater, granny panties and tights to the after-party of the New York premiere of her film Factory Girl.
Who is Sienna Miller, you ask? She's the British chick who became famous after her boyfriend, Jude Law, cheated on her with the nanny. She then became the British chick who called Pittsburgh "Sh*tsburgh". Then she became the British chick who may or may not have hooked up with Sean Puff Diddy Daddy Combs two weeks after his fiancee gave birth to his twins. And now she's the British chick who, well... yeti/granny panty/tights thing.
Look, England. We're willing to accept Victoria Beckham on our shores only because she's a part-and-parcel deal with that hot husband of hers. Please do not take this as an indication that we have an open-door policy on all of your manky slags. Not unless you're willing to make one hell of a trade, that is.
Heather
Here's what's happening music-wise this week and beyond in Fresno and the rest of Valley. If I missed something, post it below or shoot me an e-mail.
We'll start with tonight:
- Zany rapper/singer Afroman -- you know, the "Because I Got High" guy -- oughta be plenty entertaining for the stoner crowd, performing at 9 p.m. today at Crossroads. Tickets cost $15. [ More ]
- Little Texas, who had numerous country hits in the early '90s (including "God Blessed Texas" and "My Love"), perform at 7:30 p.m. today at Tower Theatre. Tickets cost $10. [ More ]
(Warning: Massive number of links ahead)
Continue reading Concert Calendar: This week and beyond.
Mike Oz
There are maybe four or five people in the world who wake up gorgeous in the morning.
You and I are not these people. We need a little help from Maybelline or MAC or what have you to face the world. And judging from these pictures of her without makeup, so does Eva Longoria.
Feel better?
Heather
My faithful veteran Oscar correspondent, reader George Feist, incredulously weighs in on last night's Screen Actors Guild awards:
" Little Miss Sunshine' the winner for best ensemble cast???"
Um, it was a shock for a lot of people, George, including the cast itself, according to Geoff Boucher's very witty story in Monday's L.A. Times. Here's the twist: The ensemble cast award is one prize that you won't find at the Oscars (thank goodness for at least a sliver of differentiation, or the SAGs would be totally superfluous), but it's generally thought to mirror the guild's preference for Best Picture.
Continue reading Those surprising SAGs.
Donald Munro
Harry Potter and the Attempt to Prove Credibility in Grown-Up RolesHarry Potter and the Attempt to Prove Credibility in Grown-Up Roles
I'm not sure how to deal with this.
Publicity stills for the play Equus starring 17-year old Daniel Radcliffe (aka Harry Potter) have been released and, of course, have made their way to the Internet.
It is rumored that young Radcliffe gets nekkid on stage, and if the photos are any indication, the rumors are most likely true.
Can you handle seeing a topless Harry Radcliffe posing provocatively with a white horse, photo cut off just above his Chamber of Secrets? Or how about Radcliffe posing with what appears to be an equally naked woman of indeterminate age? (possibly NSFW, depending where you work)
So much for the idea of Harry giving it up to Hermione after a late-night university pub crawl. I feel as if a part of my innocence has died today. Or, you know. Whatever was left of my innocence after seeing those videos of Paris Hilton.
***UPDATE*** Not horrified enough by the above pics? Best Week Ever's blog has more, and these are even more likely to send you fleeing to a corner of the room, shaking, crying and whispering "Expelliarmus" under your breath. (possibly NSFW)
Heather
And you thought all your Christmas gifts were long opened.
The Nationwide Insurance commercial set to air during this weekend's Super Bowl and starring Fresno's own Kevin Federline has already made it to the Internet. The documentary ad features K-Fed working in a fast food joint after an all-too-brief stint enjoying the high life.
The good news? The commercial is short and sweet, much like Federline's 15 minutes of fame. The bad news? Like K-Fed's short-lived career, the commercial features the indigestion-inducing rap stylings of America's Most Hated (lyrics NSFW. Song NSF those with ears).
Dear, sweet Kevin. What you lack in talent, you make up for with your staggering inability to tell the difference between people laughing with you, and people laughing at you.
Heather
If you ask the wize guyz in Vegas, they might say fuhggggetabouditt (enough consonants?) for both of us. But ESPN's Page 2 makes a strong case for the Bears, providing 10 examples -- it's a good read if you're watching the game for more than the commercials.
But I don't buy the 7-point line given to the Colts. That's why on two of my five 10-team parlay cards, I gave the Bears a shot to cover. That's right, I played five different combinations of 10-out-of-10 parlay bets yesterday when I was in Vegas (it's legal there, so get off my back). Afterward, I asked the sports-book teller how often anyone hits the 800-1 payout. Her reply: "None that I've ever heard of."
So I'm liking my chances.
Continue reading Who's got a better chance? Da Bears or me?.
Will
The Internet makes it easy to find just about anything for sale these days, including movies. But if something's out of print, be prepared to pay some big bucks. A reader writes:
Years ago (I am 55) I saw a movie that I loved. The music was haunting, the story kind of "Hitchcock." I have since learned the music was by (not surprising) Henry Mancini. I have wanted to see the movie again but can not rent it, and on ebay it is $200. do you think that possibly the movie is tied up in an estate? The movie is "Moment to Moment" with Jean Seberg and Arthur Hill.
My reply: I don't know if the movie is tied up in an estate; I suspect it's just out of print. But whatever the reason, I went on Amazon and found copies of the 1965 film for $200-plus. Anyone have any tips for finding a title like this without paying that much? Or is this what our eBay-world has come to?
Donald Munro
And before you ask, no, Van Halen didn't play Tokyo Garden and no, you didn't miss itAnd before you ask, no, Van Halen didn't play Tokyo Garden and no, you didn't miss it
Have you seen "I'm From Rolling Stone," the annoying MTV reality show that pits a bunch of music journalist wannabes against each other for a job at Rolling Stone? Yeah, I didn't think so. I heard the rating stink.
Anyway, as part the whole whoop-to-do of the show, Rolling Stone is giving the Average Joe/Janes at home the chance to prove that they're better than the dumb kids that MTV picked (and really, that's not too hard -- don't believe me, watch the show, look for a girl named Krishtine and instantly start to lose respect for my chosen profession).
Anyway, each week on RollingStone.com there's a new journalism-based competition. Last week, people were asked to write about a concert they've seen in the past year. Fresnan Janelle Schneider was chosen as one of 20 finalists for her "review" of Van Halen playing Tokyo Garden. It's a fun read despite being totally made up. The winner -- who gets a guitar and mp3 player -- will be announced Wednesday.
Mike Oz
Yeah, you know, the horse who (or that) won the Kentucky Derby in 2006 but then broke his (its?) leg in the Preakness Stakes. (I'm talking about horse racing here, in case you are as clueless as I am about this pointless sport whose sole purpose is even more geared toward gambling than jai-alai and this weekend's Super Bowl.)
Anyway, so tomorrow, newspapers across the country are going to lead with this story. My question: Do you care? Because I don't. But if you do, please comment or e-mail why. 'Cause dude's gotsta know.
*** UPDATE: So I guess I'm a jerk. ***
Will
A reader writes:
I thoroughly enjoyed your piece on Ted Neeley. It showed a side of stage perfomers the public rarely sees or hears about. The movie "Jesus Christ Superstar" has been one of my favorites since I saw it at the Towne Cinema on Ashlan Avenue back when it premiered. I have also seen the theatrical version three times since and am looking forward along with many friends to Wednesday's performance. Looking at some of my vinyl albums (you remember those?), I found the "Teddy Neeley" LP from his early singing days. I'd like to be able to show it to him. Do you know if he will stick around after his performance to greet the public?
My reply: I'm betting yes.
Continue reading Ted Neeley, Superstar.
Donald Munro
It's been a couple of years since I've seen the Fresno dance company Altered Modalities perform. What's interesting about this group, which puts on a full-length concert 7:30 p.m. tonight (Saturday Jan. 27) at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium, is the way it blurs genres. According to the company:
The dancers that train with artistic director Martha Kelly-Fiero are fluent in many forms such as jazz, classical ballet, modern, hip hop and tap. Many have cross-trained all their lives as did Kelly-Fierro thus lending the choreography to be no one particular "cookie-cutter" style.Altered Modalities recently became a non-profit organization, and it's angling to fill a void in the Fresno dance scene: that of a semi-professional company featuring local dancers.
Continue reading Last-minute weekend pick: Altered Modalities.
Donald Munro
There are lots of whiners in Fresno when it comes to art films. I should know, because I'm one of them.
But everything has a season. The last month or so has felt particularly bountiful when it comes to smaller art/independent films. In fact, this weekend we're swimming in wonderful choices. See Judi Dench saturate the brisk and dark "Notes on a Scandal" with a performance so sour and strong it'll leave a taste in your mouth. Settle back with Pedro Almodovar's emotional and whimsical "Volver," featuring Penelope Cruz in an Oscar-nominated performance that'll have you marveling at both her beauty and emotional complexity. Check out Kate Winslet's acclaimed performance -- along with Jackie Earle Haley, nominated for best supporting actor -- in Todd Field's long-awaited "Little Children."
Continue reading This weekend, we're in art-film heaven.
Donald Munro
A reader writes:
I read your article about the artist change for this weekend's Fresno Philharmonic concert. Do you know what injury Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg suffered that she had to cancel? She's scheduled to appear here in Buffalo, NY with the Assad Brothers in two weeks and I'm wondering if it will be cancelled.
My reply: I checked this morning, and, according to Don Reinhold, executive director of the Phil, Salerno-Sonnenberg injured her back. She said that she would be unable to fly and that she wanted to be sure to rest so that her injury would not impact other scheduled performances.
Donald Munro
I hate censorship as much as the next journalist, but ...I hate censorship as much as the next journalist, but ...
I didn't notice the issue when, in fact, I just saw "The Queen" while on a Delta flight. Apparently, when "God bless you, ma'am," is uttered, passengers hear a bleep. I guess I just thought it was the seatbelt sign going off.
I'm glad they were playing the film, as I flew the day after the Golden Globes -- during which it became clear that the only precursor I could count on for the Oscars was Helen Mirren's shoo-in for best actress. But I thought they only bleeped God when it came before "damn it." (Which I'm fine with, because my ears don't burn when I hear somebody stub their toe on network TV.)
Will
Boy, did I boggle the word "biddy" (as in calling Judi Dench an "old biddy") this morning in my review of "Notes on a Scandal." I spelled the word as "bitty." (You'll have to check your morning paper for the glitch in all its glory; we've since changed the Web version, which is linked to from national sites like Rotten Tomatoes, so grammarians across the country wouldn't cock-a-doodle-doo at us.) The original error prompted this phone call bright and early this a.m. from a reader:
I just want to call your attention to the fact that you really need to go back to school. This review you have written, "Take Note," in regard to some kind of a movie, you refer to a woman as an old bitty. There is no such word. What you want is biddy, which means an old hen. A biddy is a hen! You need a dictionary, and you need to take another course in grammar, spelling and punctuation. Your article has a lot to be desired in the way you write.
My reply: I'm almost chicken to admit it, but I must have missed the "biddy" lecture in my Poultry and Journalism class. Egg on my face, for sure.
Donald Munro
In my review today of "The King and I" at Roger Rocka's Dinner Theater, I wrote that Darren Tharp, who plays Lun Tha, "needs better control of his big voice."
A reader responds::
What do you mean Darren Tharp needs better control of his big voice? We all agreed that his AND Anna's son's voices were the highlight of the musical program! Darren's voice gave you chills. Just beautiful. Great show!
My reply: I agree that Tharp's voice (at times) was chill-worthy.
Continue reading 'King and I' review: a response.
Donald Munro
Rookie PGA golfer Brandt Snedeker started the Buick Invitational with an 11-under 61, just two shots shy of the record in a PGA tournament (probably akin to a no-hitter in baseball). Anyway, when asked if thought he could hold off Tiger Woods, who's going for his seventh consecutive PGA Tour victory this week, Snedeker said:
"I can't even beat him on PlayStation. I don't even want to think about beating him out here."
That's good stuff ... kind of shows the disconnect between some of the pros, though. Here's this kid -- ranked 115th in the world -- flirting with the prospect of beating the No. 1 in the world, whom he only knows as a video game character. That's like me playing "Mike Tyson's Punchout," and then getting in the ring (if we were living in 1989, of course).
*** UPDATE: Oh yeah, Tiger won. ***
Will
Mike: So I suppose we should post something about trying out for the World Series of Pop Culture, huh?
Heather: No way. Let's let everyone be surprised when they see our sexy selves smiling out at them from their TVs.
Mike: OK, fine. Wanna talk about Dr. Burke hating gay people some more?
Heather: Definitely not. Who ever heard of going to rehab just for being a dick? Some ailments are incurable. So, remind me how this whole audition thing came about: Last year, I got an email from Entertainment Weekly announcing upcoming try-outs for the "World Series of Pop Culture," a gameshow-type collaboration between the magazine and VH1, where teams of three try to prove their mastery of useless pop culture trivia. I recognized immediately that this was perfect for you, me and our giant brains, so I forwarded the info to you, right?
Continue reading Mike Oz and H-Mac: Destined for Greatness.
Heather
Concert News: Brad Paisley, Warped Tour, Gwen, Akon and Keith UrbanConcert News: Brad Paisley, Warped Tour, Gwen, Akon and Keith Urban
Hmm, something fishy is happening with Brad Paisley. His Web site has listed a May 20 Save Mart Center date for a while now, though nothing has been officially announced by the arena.
Then, outta nowhere, comes word from Tachi Palace that it has a date with Paisley on June 28. And that's official, because tickets are going on sale Feb. 2.
This was news to folks at Save Mart Center, who say they're still in the running for a date with Paisley. But I can't imagine he'd play two dates in the same market within a month of each other. I'll be watching this one.
Continue reading Concert News: Brad Paisley, Warped Tour, Gwen, Akon and Keith Urban.
Mike Oz
Once again, Fresno Phil gets the dreaded sick callOnce again, Fresno Phil gets the dreaded sick call
You've got to feel for Ted Kuchar. For the second time in two seasons, he's had to scramble at the last minute to replace a guest artist.
The Fresno Philharmonic announced Wednesday that violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg has to cancel this weekend because of an injury.
Replacing her is one of Kuchar's longtime musical collaborators, James Buswell.
Continue reading Once again, Fresno Phil gets the dreaded sick call.
Donald Munro
Let's revisit the "Grey's Anatomy" scandal for a moment. The latest is F-word using (and not the Cheney kind) actor Isaiah Washington has agreed to enter rehab for saying a word out loud that he denied saying in the very same sentence.
I think this is unnecessary, as this story points to the possibility that this is all for show, thus downplaying the good that these rehab units do for people who actually need help.
I don't think the dude who plays the endearingly serious if slightly crabby Dr. Preston Burke needs to go to rehab. Whether ABC wants to fire him is a decision for the network to make.
Continue reading Dr. Burke checking in ... on his way out?.
Will
Four audition cities down, and three more to go before this season's "American Idol" hits Hollywood. Wednesday night, another handful of hopefuls got their golden tickets at the New York auditions.
Here to talk Wednesday's "Idol" is the Beehive's Mike and Felicia.
Felicia says:
Was I watching "American Idol," or auditions for the soap opera "Days of Our Lives"?
Continue reading American Idol: New York, New York.
Mike Oz
What were you doing during the State of the Union?What were you doing during the State of the Union?
Me? I was editing together this video about local disc golfers. Then again, I wasn't in the Capitol building Tuesday night and I'm not running for president, like John McCain. And I'm not the vice president either, who shared the screen with President Bush (along with my girl Nancy McBlinky Pelosi).
So, if I fell asleep and/or sent text messages, nobody caught me on camera doing so. Gotta love YouTube.
Continue reading What were you doing during the State of the Union?.
Will
Once again I find myself seeking a stronger word than "skank"Once again I find myself seeking a stronger word than "skank"
So. It turns out Paris Hilton is absolutely as dirty, depraved and under the influence of drugs as you always thought she was. And now we have video proof. Well. More video proof.
Let me take you back a bit, to a time when Paris was moving her worldly possessions to a new house. Said new abode didn't have room for all of Paris' special treasures, so she had them boxed up and sent off to a storage facility.
Unfortunately, the millionaire heiress neglected to pay her $208 a month bill, and the storage lot, and all of its contents, was auctioned off to someone who for now we'll just call The Guy with the Golden Ticket.
Continue reading Once again I find myself seeking a stronger word than "skank".
Heather
Kirsten Dunst's Dial a Date service now operationalKirsten Dunst's Dial a Date service now operational
So you're a semi-celeb guy who has just broken up with your totally-celeb girlfriend. You have to rebound quickly with someone who is equally as famous as your ex, so all the mags will pick up the story and your ego will get the quick boost it so desperately needs. Who What do you do?
Turn to Kirsten Dunst, apparently. According to US Weekly.com, Dunst has been seen out and about this month with recent dumpees Fabrizio Moretti (former flame of Drew Barrymore's) and Adam Brody (former boyfriend and "The O.C." co-star of Rachel Bilson).
Continue reading Kirsten Dunst's Dial a Date service now operational.
Heather
Recently, "Scrubs" star Zach Braff admitted to struggling with mild depression.
Now, in an interview with Jane magazine, Braff's ex-girlfriend, Mandy Moore, claims to have suffered from the disease, as well.
Do you think they were depressed because they realized they couldn't do any better than Mandy Moore and Zach Braff?
It may sound like a rhetorical question, but this picture of Mandy making out with Nicole Richie's ex-fiance, DJ A.M., pretty much hits you in the face with an answer, doesn't it?
Heather
"American Idol" returned this week, with a new crop of talent and wannabes (but again, mostly wannabes) in Memphis.
The Beehive's "Idol" panel, Felicia Matlosz and Mike Osegueda, dissect last night's episode. In you case you missed them: Here are recaps from the first and second shows.
Felicia says ...
Show No. 3 of "American Idol": They're in Memphis for auditions and it must have been really stark. The show is only an hour, compared to the two-hour slots given previous cities.
The people were not nearly as freaky as those in Seattle. The only one who worried me was Janita Burks and her anatomical version of the Golden Globes -- They were THIS CLOSE to flopping out of her skimpy low-cut top. This was the same woman who proclaimed: "I believe in dressing sexy but not too over the top" .... Whaaa?!
Continue reading American Idol: Memphis auditions.
Mike Oz
2 big things keep John Mayer from noticing that Jessica Simpson puts the "duh" in D-cup2 big things keep John Mayer from noticing that Jessica Simpson puts the "duh" in D-cup
Remember a while back when I implied that John Mayer's interest in Jessica Simpson had more to do with her gigantic rack than her brain, talent, personality or ability to string together a complex sentence?
Well, now I am straight out saying it. Don't believe me? Maybe this photo of Jess and the girls working overtime for Mr. Mayer's attention will convince you.
Exercise caution while viewing the photo, though: the power of the side-boob induced John Mayer to invite the double D-lister to spend time on his tour bus. Don't look directly at them, and don't say I didn't warn you.
The most disturbing part of all this is knowing that Mayer, who seemed down-to-earth, smart and funny, is the kind of guy who will shop for jewelry, pay for every meal and take yoga classes to impress Jessica Simpson.
I mean, yoga, for crap's sake? Behold the power of the side-boob.
***UPDATE*** For those of you who think I'm making a mountain out of molehills (*ahem*), here are pictures that better show the aforementioned side-boob-showcasing style of Jessica's non-dress. WARNING: May be NSFW, depending on where you work or if you just can't stand the sight of giant knockers.
Heather
Somebody should hide Keira Knightley before Britney Spears eats herSomebody should hide Keira Knightley before Britney Spears eats her
There are many things in the world I don't understand. These things include, but are not limited to, quantum physics, French films, girls who think they look good in leggings and the appeal behind most organized sports.
Today I found a few more things to add to the list:
Continue reading Somebody should hide Keira Knightley before Britney Spears eats her.
Heather
While watching "Prison Break" and "24" last night -- the best two-hour block currently on TV -- it struck me that the President of the United States is a woman on "Prison Break" (a blonde, too) while the president on "24" is a black man. Interesting, considering what's happened in the last week.
Just to keep things fair to the current administration, Fox also keeps a babbling fool who shouldn't speak in public amongst its television ranks, too.
Way to go, Rupert!
Mike Oz
It got eight Oscar nominations, the most of any film this year.
But "Dreamgirls" lost out in the two most important categories: best picture and best director.
The Academy went ga-ga for "Chicago" a couple of years ago. It's not an anti-musical thing. And it's obvious, with a strong showing in the acting and technical categories, that a lot of voters had an affinity for "Dreamgirls." But why did this heavy favorite stumble when it came to the top prize?
The so-so "Dreamgirls" showing wasn't the biggest surprise for me, however. That honor goes to the strong showing of "Babel."
Continue reading Did "Dreamgirls" get robbed?.
Donald Munro
It appears as though I may have made an inappropriate suggestion yesterday when I posted a photo of a dog drinking non-alcoholic beer. For the record, I am not for treating animals cruelly. So, in honor of tonight's State of the Union speech, I provide you with this alternative from PeTA.
(Please note that this video is very very very NSFW, at least the boring speech part before it gets to a nice music video appealing to your better nature.)
Will
As Donald mentioned yesterday, today is the most exciting day in Hollywood -- and ultimately the most disappointing, except for 24 people. It's when the Oscar nominations are released.
I'm kinda bummed that "Bees on a Plane" didn't get any love. Whatever, here's the list. Expect more analysis from everyone here at The Beehive over the next few weeks, but the most striking thing I noticed was that Golden Globe winners "Dreamgirls" and "Borat" were left out of the top categories while "Little Miss Sunshine" scored two acting nods and a place on the best-picture short list. Also, this is the first time I can remember that the film with the most nominations ("Dreamgirls") wasn't nominated for best picture.
Continue reading Oscar nominations released.
Will
I have a phone interview at 6:40 p.m. Tuesday with Gerard Way of My Chemical Romance. We'll be talking about, among other things, the band's concert March 14 at Selland Arena. Here's where you come in. I need those "other things."
So, do you have a question about MCR you've been dying to ask? Something you want to know from Gerard? Leave a comment with your question (and your name, if you want a shout-out) and I'll try to ask it during the interview.
Later this week, I'll put the interview up as a podcast.
Mike Oz
One of my most faithful Oscar readers over the years has been George Feist, who always keeps me up to date on his latest predictions. He's like clockwork.
Let me tell you, folks, George pays close attention to this stuff -- he has a pretty good track record!
In honor of the Oscar nominations, which will be announced bright and early 5:30 a.m. Tuesday morning (you can watch them live at www.oscar.com) I thought it'd be fun to post his predictions for the top six categories. We'll check back tomorrow, George, and see how you do.
Continue reading Oscar nomination predictions.
Donald Munro
If you're a Gordon Moore fan -- and if you've seen more than a few shows at the 2nd Space Theatre, you have to know he's one of Fresno's hardest working (and most droll) actors -- you're not going to want to miss his latest comic high point:
Getting stoned.
It's all acting, of course, and it's found in Neil Simon's "The Last of the Red Hot Lovers," the brisk and funny Good Company Players production that continues through Feb. 18 at the 2nd Space. (Though it opened Jan. 4, I missed the first two weekends of the run because I was on vacation, so I'm just now catching up.)
Continue reading 'Last of the Red Hot Lovers' at 2nd Space.
Donald Munro
Yummy. But just one question: What fun is that? Giving them the real stuff is where the real entertainment lies.
Will
Weekend in Review: Same Shape, Super Lucky Catz, comedy at Babylon and moreWeekend in Review: Same Shape, Super Lucky Catz, comedy at Babylon and more
Here's what I did this weekend. What about you? If you saw a good local show (or a bad one), leave a comment tell us about it.
FRIDAY
Starline was the site of a state-spanning rock show with locals The Same Shape, San Francisco band The Stone Foxes and L.A.'s No More Kings.
No More Kings started things off. They're playfully poppy, digging into a lot of '80s pop culture. They have songs based on Charlie Brown, "Knight Rider" and "The Karate Kid."
Mike Oz
Within one week, capped off by Saturday's announcement from Hillary, the 2008 Democratic nomination battle just became the most interesting in history. First it was Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), who says judgment trumps experience. Then, Gov. Bill Richardson (D-N.M.) joined the race. And on Saturday, Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) made it official by seeking a conversation with the country.
Of course, these guys have only set up "exploratory committees" for now, but we know what that means -- why make one announcement when you can make two? Well, that's all fine and dandy, but with the primaries more than a year away, there's plenty of time to be educated about these people later. For now, let's queue up the entertainment. If you don't care for Obama's plain-jane announcement, here's one with theme music. And let's not forget his initial "I'm ready" spot. Richardson gave us these words in English and Spanish, but they pale to his Western-themed ad for re-election as governor. It was tough searching for something in which Hillary shows she has a sense of humor, so this well-timed "SNL" skit will have to do for now.
Will
Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and current Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy just became the second black head coach in NFL history to lead his team to a Super Bowl. On Feb. 4, Dungy will face Lovie Smith, who served as his linebackers coach in Tampa in the late 1990s.
New England Patriots 34, Indianapolis Colts 38. No black head coach has ever coached in a Super Bowl. That changes two-fold for Super Bowl 41 in Miami.
Will
There are 7 minutes still left in the game, but Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers assistant and current Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith just became the first black head coach in NFL history to lead his team to a Super Bowl.
UPDATE: It's official. Chicago Bears 39, New Orleans Saints 14.
Will
There's no pumpkin carriage. And the mice are nowhere to be seen.
But Fresno Grand Opera's production of "La Cenerentola," otherwise known as "Cinderella," is indeed the tale you're expecting: the poor, put-upon, abused beauty forced to toil in the cinders while her obnoxious step-sisters clamor for the attention of the handsome, wife-seeking Prince. (Talk about giving one guy all the power: It's sort of like "The Flavor of Love" with arias.)
The opera company on opening night staged a sturdy retelling of the classic tale at the Saroyan Theatre, with solid performances from mezzo-soprano Kirstin Chavez as an earthy Cinderella, a booming-voiced (and very funny) Kevin Glavin as the bass-singing wicked stepfather and a cheery turn from baritone Patrick Jacobs as the Prince's valet. (His character's droll asides were a highlight.)
Continue reading Fresno Grand Opera's "Cinderella".
Donald Munro
Concert heads up: Evanescence is coming to Selland Arena on March 16 with Finger Eleven and perennial Fresno-opening act Chevelle.
(For real, haven't they opened half the rock tours that come to Selland?)
I don't have ticket prices yet -- but I'm told tickets will go on sale next Saturday. More details when I get them.
Mike Oz
The new theater year got off to a good start for me. It didn't take long for "The King and I," which opened Thursday at Roger Rocka's Dinner Theater, to pass my "big stupid grin" test. I'm referring, of course, to the rare point at a show in which I find myself with a big, beaming smile plastered on my face because I'm so entranced with what I'm seeing on stage.
That moment comes in this Good Company Players production with the traditional introduction of the royal children. Anna (Laurie Pessano) has traveled to Siam to teach the king's offspring. Each one gets their own little entrance on stage, bowing first to their father and their teacher. Watching the king (Dindo V. Dizon) beam with pride at each one's little bow, and then seeing Anna so gracefully receive them, you're reminded of why this Rodgers and Hammsterstein classic retains its charm after so many years: It's sentimental but still majestic.
Continue reading 'The King and I' at Roger Rocka's.
Donald Munro
Are you ready for some ... predictions? Since none of us here at The Beehive are football experts (except Bill; and I wouldn't challenge Mike to a game of Madden if I were you), we thought it'd be fun to take this weekend's conference championship games -- the final four of the NFL -- and try to pick the Super Bowl matchup. (And since our picks happen to be all over the map, one of us will be correct. Our reasonings, though, probably not so much.)
Mike: Patriots / Saints
(Mike says: Peyton & Co. still won't beat the Pats -- not even at home. Using my Gross-o-Meter, Rex is due to implode this game. And the Saints will go a-marching.)
Heather: Colts / Bears
(Heather says: I know nothing about football. I didn't even know there were playoff games. However ... as a proud American, who is still sad about Katrina, I should go with the Patriots and the Saints. But I choose the Colts and the Bears, because animals are nice. Yay football!)
Bill: Colts / Saints
(Bill the former Bee sports editor says: I like the Saints to win with ease because they have a solid quarterback in Drew Brees. Now that the Colts finally have learned how to tackle, they'll turn the Patriots into spackle.)
Will: Colts / Saints
(Will says: Dungy used to coach my Bucs, and I'd like to see him at least get there. And the Saints are just a great story -- much better than the Bears, who have gun-control issues, and I'm not just talking about Grossman's arm.)
Jennifer: Patriots / Bears
(Jennifer the Web queen says: I predict that the Patriots will win -- which will make a coworker of mine very happy -- and the Bears will win because I love Chicago. But I will not have any clue who the winners are until the papers come out.)
Oh, and check out this week's Poll Position on FresnoBee.com to pick your favorite to win the big game.
Will
Yesterday, Mike started a new Beehive feature: "Did they just say Fresno?" Periodically, we'll post about Fresno's infamy as relayed by celebrities or on popular TV shows. NBC showed a lot of love to our fair city this past week, with Ryan Reynolds throwing a zinger on Leno, and then a guest character on the show "Las Vegas" dropping the other kind of F-bomb.
Here's how the scene unfolded:
DELINDASo, tell me everything: Ollie, life in Fresno, married life.NICOLEWhere do I start? Well, Fresno isn't Vegas, that's for sure, but that's where Ollie's business is -- they make TV stands.
You're right, Nicole, Fresno isn't Vegas. But at least we can, er ... we can, um ... get some nifty TV stands here. Booya!
You can see the whole episode on NBC.com (the scene in question comes early in Part Two, around the -10:00 mark).
Will
In my column today, I examined the best places in town to watch football. Not just sports bars, but restaurants and regular bars, too. Like I wrote in the column, a lot of this depends on what factors people prefer: a bunch of TVs, good food, cheap drinks, fan camaraderie, etc.
Plus, something like this is so subjective that inevitably people are going to have their own opinions, and take me to task for mine.So let's hear some opinions. Did I miss a good place? Do you think one of the places I listed completely sucks? Do you know a hidden treasure that most folks don't?
Oh, and for the record: I visited close to 20 places before I settled on my top eight. Some other places I went: BJ's Brewhouse, Rep's Bar, 500 Club, Old Town Saloon, Elbow Room, Grogg's, Casey's Bar and Grill, Pizza Pit and a couple others.
Mike Oz
Like over 14,000 other satisfied Fresnans (minus one Mike Oz), I had a blast at last night's Justin Timberlake concert. However, there was a little something that kept me distracted throughout the show, and it wasn't the skankily-dressed attendees or the custodial staff with their puke-cleaning mops.
Continue reading Justin Timberlake: Lover, fighter.
Heather
Getting shot turns out to be the least of Dr. Burke's worriesGetting shot turns out to be the least of Dr. Burke's worries
Things are not looking good for "Grey's Anatomy" star Isaiah Washington.
Months after a report surfaced that Washington had referred to co-star T.R. Knight as - well, a word I refuse to say, much less print - the actor has found himself in trouble with his co-stars and his network.
Continue reading Getting shot turns out to be the least of Dr. Burke's worries.
Heather
Apparently, Ryan Reynolds -- you probably know him best as Van Wilder -- is the sexiest Canuck alive. Yeah, I didn't know either.
I found out last night when Reynolds was on "The Tonight Show" and Jay Leno started talking about it. Reynolds tried to downplay the whole situation.
"That's kinda like winning sexiest man in Fresno," he said. [ video ]
Ryan, I got one initial and half a word for you: K-FED! And he will kick your Alanis Morissette-loving ass! No one besmirches the fine good so-so reputation of our city like that -- especially not by comparing us to a bunch of "aboot"-saying hockey lovers -- and gets away with it. This is war, buddy!
Mike Oz
Sorry this was a little late. I was still catching up from Justin-mania and didn't yet have a chance to dish on last night's "Idol." Here's what Felicia and I had to say about last night's Seattle audition show. I wonder if it'll rate higher than Tuesday night's huge debut. If you missed our first-night recaps, they're here.
"Idol" watchers -- what do you think so far?
Felicia says:
I don't know who will win "American Idol," but I know this: The show will never hold auditions in Seattle again. Host Ryan Seacrest described it as entering "The Twilight Zone," and he wasn't exaggerating. More than the usual dose of freaks, angry reactions and weird behavior were on embarrassing display Wednesday night.
Continue reading Talkin' "Idol:" Seattle auditions.
Mike Oz
CBS News has a great online question-and-answer session called "The Libby Trial for Dummies." It helps explain exactly what has happened up to this point (the case is in jury-selection mode), and what will probably happen, which is not much.
Remember when this thing was the biggest news story?
Will
I guess I missed the post-Globes interview with the "Grey's Anatomy" people, during which actor Isaiah Washington took an opportunity to deny an incident that happened months ago -- you know, when he allegedly called fellow cast mate T.R. Knight a f-gg-t?
You can read about the whole sordid affair here.
But as I said during my Golden Globes blogging, I like the show. I have ever since it debuted midseason more a year ago when it followed "Desperate Housewives." I even like the two characters who now seem to be in jeopardy over the feud between the two actors involved. And, I don't care if anyone or the whole damn cast is gay. I just want to watch a TV show.
Continue reading Methinks he doth protest too much.
Will
I know a lot of Justin Timberlake fans will read my recap in today's paper, think that I was dissing him and get peeved. But I really wasn't. I think Justin did well last night. It wasn't the greatest show ever, but it wasn't horrible either. I dug it.
Most of my beefs related to technical stuff. It seemed like the staging was too much. There was too much movement and all the fancy screens made it hard to see, unless you had really good seats. Most people spent half the concert looking at Justin's back or trying to figure out where he was. Despite all that, though, I think Justin turned in a good performance, trying to give every screaming woman who wanted a piece, at least a glimpse.
Here are some other notes and observations:
Continue reading Outtakes: Justin Timberlake.
Mike Oz
TMZ.com is reporting that party girl and notorious trainwreck Lindsay Lohan has checked herself into rehab. Lohan issued this statement through her publicist:
"I have made a proactive decision to take care of my personal health. I appreciate your well wishes and ask that you please respect my privacy at this time."
Although TMZ doesn't specifically say what Lohan is in rehab for, the actress has admitted to attending AA meetings in the past (not so anonymously, as it turns out).
What I do know at this time is that the girl waited for me to take a day off from blogging to do this. Doesn't she realize today is a holy day for me and I don't have time for this nonsense?
Heather
We're only four hours away.
So here's everything you need to know before you head out to tonight's Justin Timberlake concert at Save Mart Center.
Is the show sold-out?
Last I checked, no. But, you can't get tickets from Ticketmaster anymore, since it's close to showtime. That just means you can go to the box office and skip all the Ticketmaster fees.
Continue reading The JT FAQ.
Mike Oz
The first night of "American Idol" is in the books, and here for a next-morning breakdown is the The Beehive's own panel of critics -- "Idol" lover Felicia Matlosz, "Idol" hater Mike Oz and local singer Rob the Voice, whose own "Idol" quest ended just one step before what we saw on TV last night.
Felicia says:
The sixth season of "American Idol" kicked off Tuesday with auditions taped in Minneapolis. It was the show's usual early mix of unbelievably delusional people and a sprinkle of potential talent, not to mention the expected joy, tears, outrage and desperation.
Continue reading American Idol: Breaking down the premiere.
Mike Oz
Hearing that New Orleans is home to "Saints", Brad and Angelina pick up and move to LouisianaHearing that New Orleans is home to "Saints", Brad and Angelina pick up and move to Louisiana
According to US Weekly, Angelina Jolie has confirmed that she and Brad Pitt have moved to New Orleans.
And with that announcement, the manufacturing of plastic beads increases by 1000%.
(That's a sexy back you got there, Angie.)
Heather
Time for a celebrity S.A.T. question:
Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony are out on the town when the SUV they're riding in breaks down. A more luxurious, yet much smaller, car comes to the rescue. Where does everyone sit?
If you put Posh on Zombie Boy's corpse lap, teeny-tiny Tom on Katie's lap, and JLo slumming it up front with the help, you'd be correct. You'd also be shocked and embarrassed for Tom Cruise, and not for the first time.
You know who else is short? Prince.
Heather
The Good News:
You will not be forced to watch Mrs. PotatoHead in a bad weave Britney Spears embarrass herself in an NFL Network promo spot during the Super Bowl.
The Bad News:
You will be forced to watch the Fed Ex himself, ole' Kevin Federline, earn a paycheck schlepping for Nationwide Insurance during the game.
Daddy gotta raise some cash to put gas in the pickup, now that the Mrs. is using her cheddar to put up his doppelganger in $40,000 hotel suites.
As bad as this must be for Federline, how do you think it feels to be the guy picking up K-Fed's sloppy seconds? Although, if memory serves, Kevin has a little experience with that himself, doesn't he?
Heather
"American Idol" starts tonight. But you probably already knew that. Since something like 33 million people watch "Idol," chances are you're one of them.
They can add one more to the numbers tonight. I'll be watching. Though I hate "Idol" and what it stands for, it's too big of a piece of American pop culture to ignore.
That's why I'll be watching each week and commenting the next day right here at the Beehive, as will my Idol-loving colleague Felicia Matlosz.
Continue reading We're talking "American Idol".
Mike Oz
Like maybe the design?
Yep, The Beehive finally gets a facelift. We hope you enjoy it.
Jennifer
Below is my live, running thought bubble while watching the Golden Globes on Monday night:
Opening shots of stars as they walk in. Leo is hot. So is Will Smith. Why does Clint always wear those black tuxedo shirts? God, I feel like Joan Rivers. Who's the old dude with the goatee? Why is Puffy there? All the actresses have the same wave, and so does Eddie Murphy. Angelina looks like J-Lo. What has happened to her? Ahh, a JT sighting (happy, Heather?) The music is some song called "One Night Only" despite this being one of many awards shows. Whatever.
Continue reading Blogging the Golden Globes.
Will
UPDATE: Here's the link to my story on the demise of Fagan's from this morning's paper.
Carrie Fagan-Davis has made her decision and it's not surprising. Her downtown pub is closing.
Continue reading It's official: Fagan's Irish Pub is finished.
Mike Oz
We interrupt your regularly scheduled Beehive programming ...We interrupt your regularly scheduled Beehive programming ...
For this special announcement: In honor of Wednesday's super duper mega ultra cool Justin Timberlake concert at the Save Mart Center, we here at the Beehive will be paying tribute to JT by working him into all of our blog postings.
And we shall do this no matter how strange, awkward or funny -- because it's Justin Week (and because, really, we don't have anything better to do).
Good readers, you are encouraged to do the same in your comments.
Before we say bye, bye, bye, we'll leave you with this.
Mike Oz
...and because Mondays blow:
Here is the clip you had to rewind on your TiVO after watching it last Thursday: Jim Halpert from "The Office" slapping down Dwight for no good reason.
Enjoy, my friends.
Heather
I loved Garden State, but Zach Braff really should shut upI loved Garden State, but Zach Braff really should shut up
According to People.com, Zach Braff, star of T.V.'s "Scrubs" and director of Garden State, suffers from mild depression.
So do the rest of us, only we don't have millions of dollars and sex with Hollywood starlets to see us through it.
Asswipe.
Heather
Like me, Paula Abdul can't face another season of American Idol without self-medicatingLike me, Paula Abdul can't face another season of American Idol without self-medicating
Perhaps you've seen this video of Paula Abdul slurring, weaving and catnapping her way through an interview with a couple of Seattle's finest newscasters.
But you'll watch it again. Just like you'll watch "American Idol" in the hopes of seeing Ms. Abdul lose her mind completely - doing body shots off Simon Cowell, climbing up on the judges' table to strip her way through "Forever Your Girl," and doing her damnedest to "turn that bitch Ryan Seacrest straight."
Come on. How else do you explain A.I.'s massive appeal?
Heather
David Beckham, who is leaving Real Madrid football for the L.A. Galaxy, 
Prince William prepares for monarchy and 
Claire Danes was spotted out on the town with her new man, Hugh Dancy, Thursday in New York. Now, I don't give a crap about Claire Danes, and neither do you, but this is the denouement (word of the day - learn it) to a fun story:
Danes allegedly was dumped by her boyfriend of three years, Billy Crudup, last month when the actor discovered Danes had been cheating on him with her co-star Dancy on the set of their film Evening.
Now cut to three years ago, when Crudup left his 8-months pregnant girlfriend, actress Mary-Louise Parker, holding the placenta bag (if you will) to run off with his co-star Danes. Karma was watching you, Billy Crudup.
And taking notes, you egomaniacal son of a bitch. Sigh... allegedly.
Heather
Just a friendly poll since it seems that TV is picking up again after the holiday doldrums, since my beloved "24" starts this weekend and since I talked a little TV in my column today:
What are your five favorite shows on TV right now?
For clarification (and for Ms. Heather, who I know will try to put "Buffy The Vampire Slayer") we're talking shows that are still on the air.
Here's my list:
1. "The Wire" (HBO)
2. "24" (Fox)
3. "The Office" (NBC)
4. "Entourage" (HBO)
5. "Law & Order: SVU" (NBC)
Mike Oz
Did anyone else notice that "Grey's Anatomy" was a little off yesterday?
Maybe it's just my ever-failing eyesight, but the show seemed to be filmed in a different style: there were many more close-ups and everything seemed kind of gauzy... like someone had smeared Vaseline on the camera lens:
Continue reading My Two Cents: Grey's Anatomy.
Heather
JT and Cammie D. have officially called it quits.
The former pair released a statement Thursday announcing the end of their union:
"It has always been our preference not to comment on the status of our relationship, but, out of respect for the time we've spent together, we feel compelled to do so now, in light of recent speculation and the number of inaccurate stories that are being reported by the media. We have, in fact, ended our romantic relationship and have done so mutually and as friends, with continued love and respect for one another."
Boo! If Justin and Scarlett Johansson suddenly start appearing together in public in the next 6 days, I'm only going to cheer half as hard at next week's concert, I totally swear.
More troubling than a JT/ScarJo union is what I saw last night on "E! News Daily": footage of Cameron, Drew Barrymore and Lindsay-oh god no-Lohan out on the town together. Word is, Drew Barrymore and her boyfriend of over four years, Strokes drummer Fabrizio Moretti, also have broken up, so it would be natural for the two BFFs to commiserate. But with Lindsay Lohan, of all people? I hope they've had their shots.
Riddle me this: If a couple of thirtysomethings flash their newly single va-jay-jays all over Hollywood, is it still considered skanky or is it empowering?
Heather
I rolled into the parking lot outside of "Club" Habanos last Friday night for the first time in a couple months. I went to the doorman and asked if they were charging a cover. He responded that it was $10.
Ten bucks?!??! Seriously.
Continue reading Ten bucks to get into your bar? A rant..
Mike Oz
Below are my predictions for the Golden Globes. As I've
mentioned previously, I haven't seen many of these films. Meaning, I've seen six. Total. Out of -- oh, dear, I can't count that high.
I've seen "The Departed," "Borat," "Little Miss Sunshine," "The Pursuit of Happyness," "The Da Vinci Code" and "Pirates 2." So ... why am I risking my stellar reputation as an awards prognosticator? 'Cause I'm an idiot. Enjoy.
Continue reading My Golden Globe predictions.
Will
Carrie Fagan-Davis from Fagan's Irish Pub is/was on KMJ right now/a few minutes ago talking about the future of Fagan's. Blog reader Shawn (thanks!) called me and let me know, but I don't have a radio here in the office and KMJ doesn't stream online.
Can anyone recap?
Mike Oz
The Good:
Soccer player and jaw-droppingly hot metrosexual (can we still use that word?) David Beckham has signed a 5-year contract to play with the L.A. Galaxy. He's hot, he's popular, he'll bring all kinds of attention to U.S. Soccer.
The Bad:
He's probably bringing the wife.
Heather
Coming here looking for our blog by Jeff Leonard in Iraq? He's actually got a space all his own at www.fresnobeehive.com/iraqlife/.
Jennifer
Now, see... this isn't good.
US Weekly is saying that Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake, who were having problems in their relationship, ultimately split when Diaz found out JT hired Scarlet Johansson to be in his video "What Goes Around" because he had a crush on her. Apparently Diaz was jealous of Johansson, and with good reason: mystery sources tell the magazine that since the video was shot, Justin and Scarlet have begun dating.
Bad, bad, BAD. Although Cameron and Justin haven't actually confirmed a split, it's safe to say that since they haven't been photographed together in a while, things are probably not all sunshine and roses with the couple. And as I've said before, I adore Justin and I adore Cameron, so there's no choosing sides here.
But now ScarJo, whom I also adore, is getting all up in the mix? Like, ten minutes after they break up? Bad, bad, BAD. Don't make me choose, Justin. At least not until after I see you perform your little heart out next Wednesday at the SaveMart Center. And don't make me hate ScarJo, either - I'm still trying to forgive Angelina for what she did to Jen. (But lord knows, she ain't making it easy.)
You know what's good, though? Take a closer look at that US Weekly cover: in the right corner, there's that hideous picture of Britney Spears that surfaced last week with the caption: "Brit's face: What's wrong?"
Awesome.
Heather
The Academy Awards' In Memoriam segment just got a little longerThe Academy Awards' In Memoriam segment just got a little longer
Today Hollywood lost two of its own: director Carlo Ponti and actress Yvonne De Carlo both have died.
Carlo Ponti, 94, was famous for being both an acclaimed Italian producer and the man who discovered (and married) Sophia Loren. His divorce to his first wife was not recognized by Italian law, so, charged with bigamy after marrying Loren, Ponti became a French citizen, which later in his life also allowed him to dodge smuggling charges in Italy.
Yvonne De Carlo, best known for playing Lily Munster on TV's "The Munsters," had a varied career that included film and stage work. She also was totally gorgeous, which you couldn't see under all that Munsters make-up. De Carlo was 84.
They say celebrity deaths happen in threes, so Andy Rooney has to be hella nervous about now.
Heather
Used to being under some guy, Paris Hilton now wants to be above the lawUsed to being under some guy, Paris Hilton now wants to be above the law
Through her attorney, Paris Hilton has entered a plea of not guilty to charges stemming from a misdemeanor drunk driving arrest made in September.
As for charges that she is a ridiculous whore, Hilton pleads no contest.
Heather
Throwing some attention at those who can't get into HydeThrowing some attention at those who can't get into Hyde
You know...it's not always about Britney and Paris and Lindsay. There are older and uglier celebrities out there, and they have lives, too. I think it's time we checked in with some of our C and D List celeb pals:
Continue reading Throwing some attention at those who can't get into Hyde.
Heather
Is John Edwards the YouTube candidate?
He's got a filmmaking team following him around to show the real him. Well, judging from Episode One, the real John Edwards smiles a lot. See his videos here.
Will
Director James Cameron has signed on to direct his first film in over 10 years, a science fiction film titled Avatar. Cameron's last major directorial effort, if you'll recall, was a small, independent film called Titanic.
According to IrelandOnline.com:
"Cameron's new offering, a hybrid of live action and animation shot in a new digital 3D format, will follow a group of humans battling aliens through remote-controlled bodies.A cast of unknowns will star in the $190m project, including Australian Sam Worthington in the lead role as 22-year-old planetary adventurer Jack Sully."
Humans battling aliens? We've never seen Cameron do that before.
For crap's sake, stop messing around and just direct Aquaman already.
Heather
Miscellany from the local music scene:
- Concerts news first: Country star Brad Paisley (right) announced his 2007 tour, which includes a May 20 date at Save Mart Center. The tour is packed with young country star power from Jack Ingram, Taylor Swift and American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler.
- Also on May 20: Celtic Woman return to the Saroyan Theatre. So that's why they've been on PBS all the time lately. Info here.
- The Save Mart Center released official word on the Feb. 15 Jamie Foxx show. Tickets are on-sale at 10 a.m. Friday, costing $39.75 and $59.75.
Continue reading Soundcheck: Notes, Chatter and Links.
Mike Oz
It's called an iPhone. Hmm, wonder what it does. OK, Mac freaks out there, you can read more here.
Disclaimer: This blog entry was created on a PC.
Will
With all this talk about Mark McGwire's eligibility for the Baseball Hall of Fame, we tend to ignore those who are actually in the Hall of Fame. Word is, Cal Ripken and Tony Gwynn are the next two in, while McGwire will join Pete Rose in the never-ending discussion of why those two are out.
Rose gambled, which is a no-no, and McGwire's chances are hurt by possibly cheating (there's been no proof of steroid use -- unless you look at the guy). In either regard, here's a non-steroids-influenced case against McGwire.
*** UPDATE: Ripken, Gwynn only two players elected to Hall of Fame Class of 2007. ***
Continue reading Hall of Fame debating.
Will
Orlando Bloom finally realizes that little mustache wasn't convincing anyoneOrlando Bloom finally realizes that little mustache wasn't convincing anyone
Good news, friends: Today is the day Orlando Bloom became a man.
Sure, you know Bloom as the delicate-featured, long-locked woman from the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, but after you see these pictures of him peeing on a rock and blowing a snot rocket, he'll forever be the delicate-featured and long-locked man-child from the Pirates movies.
You know - just like Keira Knightley is.
Heather
When Angelina sits down to do an interview, she makes sure people get their money's worth.
Everyone and their adopted momma is talking about comments Angelina Jolie made allegedly disparaging Madonna and her adoption of son David from the African country of Malawi. Jolie, who gave an interview to French magazine Gala, is quoted as saying:
Continue reading Angelina's big mouth.
Heather
Look at the way he gets into this kiss. I mean, he's got his arms around her.
She's almost backing off. Smooth, lion. Real smooth.
Will
You may not know this about me, but I love "Grease." Saw it on Broadway with Brooke Shields as Rizzo and again in Tampa when the national touring company came through town with Joe Piscopo as Vince Fontaine. I was big into drama in high school, and like most high school drama students, I performed in musical numbers from the show.
Here's something you also might not know about me: I hate reality TV. I mean loathe it. Remember when I said I saw two Broadway productions of "Grease"? That's more than I've seen of any one reality television program. Not "Survivor," "Apprentice," "American Idol," "Dancing With the 'Stars' " or "The Real World."
So, as you can see, I'm torn over the reality series "Grease: You're the One That I Want," which debuted last night on NBC despite my pleas to every one of my friends who would listen that this is the worst idea for programming since O.J. Simpson wanted to talk about how he would have killed some people, allegedly.
Continue reading 'Grease' has lost its word status.
Will
So much has already happened in the gossip world, and it's only one week into the new year. Here's what you may have missed while you were crying over your already-broken New Year's resolutions in a chocolate-, tobacco- and alcohol-fueled haze of self-loathing:
Continue reading Breaking it Down: The first week of 2007.
Heather
Odds are looking good Prince William may take a PrincessOdds are looking good Prince William may take a Princess
According to CNN.com, British bookmaking firm William Hill has stopped taking bets on a potential July 19 wedding for Prince William and his girlfriend, Kate Middleton, after it received several large bets for that particular date. A spokesperson told Reuters:
"We've taken a number of large bets -- one punter wanted to place a 1,000 pound bet --that the couple will marry on July 19, so we're no longer accepting wagers on that day."
CNN.com goes on to report that William and Kate have been given an unusually high level of police security lately, "fueling rumors of an imminent engagement announcement."
I love the idea that Prince Harry and his mates might be making anonymous bets on his brother's wedding date to earn some extra cash. If you're a betting person, I suggest you start hitting up your friends for a friendly wager: a 50 pound bet will yield you nearly 100 American dollars. Blimey.
Heather
I'm nothing if not a giver, so, because I love you, I present to you:
You're welcome. Now, if you don't hear from me for awhile, it's because I have about 4 million lunges to do.
Heather
Does Sammy Hagar hold the golden ticket for Fresno nightlife? Perhaps.
According to the Web site for the developing Village at Granite Park -- which is to feature a hotel, amusement park, dining and retail -- part of the plan is a Cabo Wabo Cantina.
From the Granite Park site:
Cabo Wabo, Sammy Hagar's original cantina is located in Cabo San Lucas, on the western edge of Mexico. A menu as free-spirited as the atmosphere, you'll find everything from seafood to Italian to Mexican. If Sammy's not rocking down the club, there's either another live band playing for the crowd, or a DJ that gets the crowd roaring.
Continue reading Can Sammy Hagar save Fresno?.
Mike Oz
So you checked out Britney's new, drool-worthy look, as pointed out by my colleague H-Mac, and wondered, "Damn, how did she get that fiiiine?"
Glad you asked, because we here at the Beehive have figured out the formula:
Continue reading How to make a Britney -- 2007 Model.
Mike Oz
Lindsay Lohan takes an unplanned trip to the hospitalLindsay Lohan takes an unplanned trip to the hospital
Nobody is judging you for immediately thinking "overdose."
Lohan was in a Los Angeles hospital Thursday to have her appendix removed after she was diagnosed with appendicitis Wednesday.
Lindsay may be losing one of her organs, but at least she still has half a brain. US Weekly is reporting that the redhead turned down a texted invitation from Kevin Federline to "hang out":
"She was totally grossed out," a Lohan pal tells Us. Says another, "She thought it was hilarious."However, Federline didn't appreciate Lohan's "Why would I hang out with you?" reply. He fired back, calling her a "firecrotch."
And that, my friends, is why K-Fed is known for being the highly original and classy guy that he is.
Heather
Britney Spears has had a rough go of it lately.
Hanging out with Paris Hilton, the Skankiest Skank in Skanktown. Drinking to excess and falling all over town, usually with a cigarette hanging out of her mouth. Flashing her mom parts to anyone with a long-lensed camera. Passing out in Las Vegas moments after midnight on New Year's Eve. Losing the love of her most devoted fans.
Well, at least she still has her looks, right?
Damn, girl. I mean - damn.
Heather
Looks like the future of Fagan's Irish Pub is gloom. Owner Carrie Fagan-Davis sent out a mass e-mail just after midnight this morning explaining the two-week closure of the downtown pub: She's trying to figure out whether she can continue to keep Fagan's open.
It was a very heartfelt and interesting e-mail, giving us a glimpse into the mind of a downtown bar owner in Fresno's current climate. Her words are below, unedited, save for some spacing adjustments.
Thoughts?
Continue reading Update on the future of Fagan's.
Mike Oz
Nancy Pelosi was just elected Speaker of the House. Apparently there's an election to these things. She won 233-202.
Can you guess how many Democrats and Republicans there are, respectively? Nice early show of bipartisanship.
Will
What kind of person are you?
You are either the kind of person who would knock your grandma down to see a picture of Paris Hilton, smile still frozen on her face, getting pelted in the eye with an ice cube, or you're not.
Chances are, if you've been reading the drivel I've been feeding you for the past month, you fall soundly into category A.
So here you go.
Heather
Doing good deeds is for suckers. Just ask Oprah and Madonna, who have gotten quite a lot of slack lately for doing what they thought was right.
Continue reading Damned if they do, damned if they don't.
Heather
Cameron Diaz may no longer want what's in Justin Timberlake's boxCameron Diaz may no longer want what's in Justin Timberlake's box
Star magazine is reporting that Justin Timberlake and Cameron Diaz have gone their separate ways.
Now, normally I wouldn't place much stock in what Star says, but they were totally on top of that Jessica Simpleton/John Mayer thing, so we may have to start taking the tabloid a bit more seriously. On the other hand, this isn't the first time breakup rumors have surrounded Cameron and Justin, who have been together for three years.
The timing is about right for this thing to end anyway - Cameron is the ultimate serial monogamist, dating Matt Dillon for 3 years, and then suffering through a relationship with that wanker Jared Leto for another 4 years. It'll be awkward with the two of them having to do press for May's Shrek the Third, but I'm sure they'll get through it.
The person I'm most worried about here is me. If this rumor turns out to be true, it's going to be pretty difficult choosing sides on this one. I mean, god knows I love JT and can't wait to see him January 17 at the SaveMart Center. But I also adore Cameron, and was one of the people who actually spent the time and money to see The Holiday.
If only there was something - anything - that could cheer me up at this exact moment.
Heather
CNN apparently goofed when it misspelled "Osama" as "Obama" in an on-screen headline the other day. Hey, it happens, and all is well after an apology.
And while Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) probably doesn't want another reminder out there that his two names happen to rhyme with a country we can't seem to leave and a terrorist we can't seem to find, it can't be as bad as Uma-Oprah or the all-time blunder. (With apologies to my former employer.)
Think this will show up on Jay Leno?
Continue reading That's a good question.
Will
Not even a week after I named it one of the top venues in town for 2006, Fagan's Irish Pub's 2007 appears to be having some problems.
This morning I got a report that newspaper was covering the windows at the downtown pub last night. That usually means a place is closing.
So I sent an e-mail to owner Carrie Fagan-Davis to see what was up.
I didn't get a direct response from her, instead she sent out a blanket message to her e-mail list saying:
Continue reading What's happening at Fagan's Irish Pub?.
Mike Oz
For Christmas this year, I asked Santa for a Nintendo Wii. Yet not even the almighty Saint Nick could deliver that. Instead, I got enough money to buy one and an ensuing mission: To track down the Wii.
This is my quest.
Continue reading My Quest for a Wii (Part 1).
Mike Oz
That sound you hear is 5 million women crying and singing "Your Body is a Wonderland" to themselvesThat sound you hear is 5 million women crying and singing "Your Body is a Wonderland" to themselves
According to Star magazine, John Mayer was spotted kissing Jessica Simpson at a party in New York over the weekend:
"The buxom blond spent much of her time tugging on his leg or clothing while he talked to other people. Ultimately, after growing tired of being ignored, Jessica threw a mini pout and was awarded a kiss from John.Then the lovebirds started nuzzling and kissing for real. But when John got up again and started talking with someone else, she started grabbing and squeezing his ass. Finally in a stronger display of affection, John grabbed Jessica's face in his giant hands, pulled her close and planted several very firm kisses on her lips before they left together at 2:47am."
Star usually doesn't prove to be a very reliable source, but TMZ.com managed to catch a photo of the pair exiting a club later that night.
Like many women who truly believe John Mayer is singing to me, I am very confused by this pairing. I'm not saying Jessica Simpson is vapid and a waste of space. No, wait. That's exactly what I'm saying. Seriously. Can someone give me an explanation for this coupling that doesn't include the phrase "really gigantic boobs"?
Heather
At least Joel Stein does. He goes off on a pretty funny rant here.
Favorite line:
So I'm going to establish a new etiquette. I'm asking my editors to build a page on opinion.latimes.com where, instead of e-mailing me, you can write about how arrogant I am. And maybe on this site, one brave person will write about how I'm right to stand up against this world of false, easy community, where columnists pretend they think their essays are no more valuable than yours, and friendship is a stranger who thanks you for the MySpace add.
Btw, my email address is walbritton@fresnobee.com, and you can add me, er, The Beehive as a MySpace friend anytime.
Will
Resolution #1: Ignore gossip stories about Britney SpearsResolution #1: Ignore gossip stories about Britney Spears
Curses. Failed already.
Did she or didn't she? The big gossip story from the holiday weekend is, of course, about Britney Spears, who allegedly was spotted passing out and being carried out of Las Vegas night club Pure shortly after midnight on New Year's Eve. TMZ.com allows you to decide the level of Britney's drunkeness by providing a helpful display of photos leading up to the alleged blackout.
Look, if there's ever a day for Britney Spears to get drunk and pass out, it's New Year's Eve, not some random Wednesday in November, so whatever - more power to her. I'm really only interested in this story because Britney appears to be hanging out with a guy who looks like Kevin Federline doing a Robert DeNiro impression. It doesn't get hotter than that, folks! I smell a sequel for those two kids in '07.
Heather
Recent Comments