SANTA MONICA, Calif. – A judge said Thursday said he is not inclined to delay the release of "Brutal Legend," a heavily marketed video game starring Jack Black, but delayed arguments and a formal ruling for one week.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Craig Karlan said during a brief hearing that his tentative ruling was to deny a motion by gaming giant Activision to delay the game's October release. He rescheduled arguments on the motion until Aug. 6 because his court calendar was full and to allow attorneys to fully argue their positions.
Activision sued the game's developer, Double Fine Productions in June and asked a judge to stop the release by rival firm Electronic Arts. Activision claims it owns the game's rights and has invested nearly $15 million in the project.
Double Fine countersued earlier this month, claiming Activision breached its contract with the firm and is only trying to protect its popular "Guitar Hero" franchise.
"Brutal Legend" features Black as a heavy-metal roadie transported to a mythical ancient world to fight evil. It has been heavily marketed at the Electronic Entertainment Expo and on gaming Web sites. An attorney for Electronic Arts told Karlan on Thursday that the company has spent millions of dollars already promoting the game.
Double Fine is scheduled to deliver a final version of the game to Electronic Arts on Aug. 8, an attorney for the company said Thursday. Karlan pledged to have his final ruling available so as not to delay that any longer than necessary.
He told attorneys for Activision that he had several reasons why he was leaning against ordering the release of the game delayed, one of them being he wasn't sure they would win.
"I can't say there's a likelihood of success here," he said.
The judge, however, said it didn't appear that either side had an upper hand in the case.
"This is going to be a close call," Karlan said.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Samosa war erupted in 2007
Patel's famous treats became so popular at the Boyce Farmers' Market that it led to the so-called 2007 samosa war.
Patel and a rival, Samosa Delite, were victims of their own success as many vendors complained about the seemingly endless queues for the spicy Indian delectable.
The samosa vendors were told to relocate to a trailer in the market's parking lot.
Patel's chose not to take their business outside and their samosas have not been available at the market since that decision.
Patel announced in January that she was looking to sell her catering business and with it may come her secret samosa recipe.
Patel and a rival, Samosa Delite, were victims of their own success as many vendors complained about the seemingly endless queues for the spicy Indian delectable.
The samosa vendors were told to relocate to a trailer in the market's parking lot.
Patel's chose not to take their business outside and their samosas have not been available at the market since that decision.
Patel announced in January that she was looking to sell her catering business and with it may come her secret samosa recipe.
Fredericton samosas to star in film
A Fredericton actor is producing a short film on how a local family transformed the city's farmers' market with the introduction of the samosa.
Bronwen Mosher, a local writer and actor, is producing A Saturday Affair to illustrate the impact Bena Patel and her family have had on the city with their spicy treats.
"The fact that everybody in Fredericton is crazy about samosas is a testament to multiculturalism working. And that's what I want to show," Mosher said.
She's making the movie as part Fredericton's cultural capital campaign. Mosher and other members of the New Brunswick Film Co-op are producing 10 short films about the city's history.
Mosher said she worked with Patel for the film but it's still a fictionalized account of the story.
Patel said she's excited to have her story made into a movie.
"When I first went to the market I was the only one with ethnic food and then now today can see it's more food than farmers, you know," Patel said.
The film will be shown at the Silverwave Film Festival in November.
Fredericton city council approved the closure of King Street on Aug. 9 from 7 to 11 a.m. to allow for the film to be shot.
Bronwen Mosher, a local writer and actor, is producing A Saturday Affair to illustrate the impact Bena Patel and her family have had on the city with their spicy treats.
"The fact that everybody in Fredericton is crazy about samosas is a testament to multiculturalism working. And that's what I want to show," Mosher said.
She's making the movie as part Fredericton's cultural capital campaign. Mosher and other members of the New Brunswick Film Co-op are producing 10 short films about the city's history.
Mosher said she worked with Patel for the film but it's still a fictionalized account of the story.
Patel said she's excited to have her story made into a movie.
"When I first went to the market I was the only one with ethnic food and then now today can see it's more food than farmers, you know," Patel said.
The film will be shown at the Silverwave Film Festival in November.
Fredericton city council approved the closure of King Street on Aug. 9 from 7 to 11 a.m. to allow for the film to be shot.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Leno's new show pegged a winner by research firm
NEW YORK (Mediaweek) – The fall TV season is still a good two months down the road, but a New York-based research company already has a bead on which new shows are likely to break out of the pack in 2009-10.
After subjecting the fall slate to a comprehensive review, NewMediaMetrics' predictive analysis suggests that CBS' "NCIS: Los Angeles" should scare up big ratings Tuesdays at 9 p.m. while NBC's "The Jay Leno Show" could prove to be a powerhouse at 10 p.m., particularly on Tuesdays.
Also promising: ABC's sci-fi "FlashForward," which leads off the network's Thursday lineup; NBC's Monday 9 p.m. hospital drama "Trauma"; Fox's "Family Guy" spinoff "The Cleveland Show," set for Sundays at 8:30 p.m.; and the CW's "Vampire Diaries," which will hold down the Wednesday 8 p.m. slot.
Other new series flagged by NewMediaMetrics are ABC's "The Forgotten," Fox musical comedy "Glee" and the one-two punch of "Cougar Town" and "Eastwick," which will cap ABC's Wednesday lineup this fall.
Including midseason replacements "V" and "Happy Town," ABC boasts nine of the top 20 new shows, according to NMM analysis. This season marks the fifth in which the researcher has predicted the outcome of the fall schedule; last year, NMM's picks resulted in an 86.4 percent accuracy rate.
NMM's success rate has been steady since it first began calling the outcome of the fall broadcast season in 2005. That year, the company predicted that Fox's "Prison Break" and CBS' "Criminal Minds" would be breakout hits; meanwhile, it gave low marks to the largely forgotten NBC ensemble drama "Inconceivable" and Fox' "Head Cases," which was yanked after two episodes.
Of the projected top 20 new shows, six are spinoffs or revisitations of long-ago properties. Leno's new show is the fall's "known unknown": The host is a familiar property, although the new format remains something of an enigma.
In addition to Tuesdays, NMM believes the variety show will get good traction on Thursday nights. (Those shows will benefit from a wealth of high-profile film talent, as the studios will trot out their A-listers on the eve of films' openings.)
NMM co-founders Gary Reisman and Denise Larson noted that while no one has seen a final blueprint for the new Leno program, the elevated expectations are a function of viewers' "emotional attachment" to the comedian. According to NMM's findings, 17 percent of Leno's core demo gave him a score of at least 9 out of 10. That attachment translates into a group much more likely to watch "Leno" than anything else in the time period.
The NMM team's research model is derived from the methods developed by Jonathan Bowlby, the British behaviorist who in the 1940s developed a methodology for quantifying the emotional bond between mothers and children.
After subjecting the fall slate to a comprehensive review, NewMediaMetrics' predictive analysis suggests that CBS' "NCIS: Los Angeles" should scare up big ratings Tuesdays at 9 p.m. while NBC's "The Jay Leno Show" could prove to be a powerhouse at 10 p.m., particularly on Tuesdays.
Also promising: ABC's sci-fi "FlashForward," which leads off the network's Thursday lineup; NBC's Monday 9 p.m. hospital drama "Trauma"; Fox's "Family Guy" spinoff "The Cleveland Show," set for Sundays at 8:30 p.m.; and the CW's "Vampire Diaries," which will hold down the Wednesday 8 p.m. slot.
Other new series flagged by NewMediaMetrics are ABC's "The Forgotten," Fox musical comedy "Glee" and the one-two punch of "Cougar Town" and "Eastwick," which will cap ABC's Wednesday lineup this fall.
Including midseason replacements "V" and "Happy Town," ABC boasts nine of the top 20 new shows, according to NMM analysis. This season marks the fifth in which the researcher has predicted the outcome of the fall schedule; last year, NMM's picks resulted in an 86.4 percent accuracy rate.
NMM's success rate has been steady since it first began calling the outcome of the fall broadcast season in 2005. That year, the company predicted that Fox's "Prison Break" and CBS' "Criminal Minds" would be breakout hits; meanwhile, it gave low marks to the largely forgotten NBC ensemble drama "Inconceivable" and Fox' "Head Cases," which was yanked after two episodes.
Of the projected top 20 new shows, six are spinoffs or revisitations of long-ago properties. Leno's new show is the fall's "known unknown": The host is a familiar property, although the new format remains something of an enigma.
In addition to Tuesdays, NMM believes the variety show will get good traction on Thursday nights. (Those shows will benefit from a wealth of high-profile film talent, as the studios will trot out their A-listers on the eve of films' openings.)
NMM co-founders Gary Reisman and Denise Larson noted that while no one has seen a final blueprint for the new Leno program, the elevated expectations are a function of viewers' "emotional attachment" to the comedian. According to NMM's findings, 17 percent of Leno's core demo gave him a score of at least 9 out of 10. That attachment translates into a group much more likely to watch "Leno" than anything else in the time period.
The NMM team's research model is derived from the methods developed by Jonathan Bowlby, the British behaviorist who in the 1940s developed a methodology for quantifying the emotional bond between mothers and children.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Report: Jackson's doctor administered drug believed to have killed him
A law enforcement official with knowledge of the investigation into Michael Jackson's death says the pop star's personal doctor administered the powerful drug that authorities believe killed him.
Jackson regularly received the anesthetic propofol to go to sleep.
The official, who requested anonymity because the probe is ongoing, told the Associated Press on Monday that Conrad Murray gave Jackson the drug the last night of his life.
Dr. Murray was with Jackson when he died June 25 and has been identified in court papers as the subject of a manslaughter investigation.
Dr. Murray's lawyer has said the doctor didn't prescribe or administer anything that should have killed Jackson.
Jackson regularly received the anesthetic propofol to go to sleep.
The official, who requested anonymity because the probe is ongoing, told the Associated Press on Monday that Conrad Murray gave Jackson the drug the last night of his life.
Dr. Murray was with Jackson when he died June 25 and has been identified in court papers as the subject of a manslaughter investigation.
Dr. Murray's lawyer has said the doctor didn't prescribe or administer anything that should have killed Jackson.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Jeremy Piven: Emmy-Winning...Pool Boy?
Los Angeles (E! Online) – Zac Efron just finished filming a guest spot on Entourage, so it would only make sense for someone like Chace Crawford to be next in line…right?
Not if the hit HBO show's star Jeremy Piven has anything to do with it! The Piv has someone completely different in mind...
"I'd like to do a scene with Dustin Hoffman where I represent him and he's my client, and I'm really trying to get him to do a big movie that he'd never do," Piven told us at Xbox 360's EA Sports Madden NFL 10 launch party in Santa Monica. "That'd be like a dream come true."
Piven and Hoffman have actually already worked together in the 2003 big-screen adaptation of John Grisham's thriller The Runaway Jury. Even so, Piven jokes that the acting legend probably doesn't even know he's an Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor.
"I'm friends with his son," he said, "so I think that Dustin thinks I'm like the pool boy."
P.S. Yeah, we want to know how he feels about not snagging an Emmy nod this year, too. However, his handlers warned, Mr. Piven would not be answering questions about the snub.
Not if the hit HBO show's star Jeremy Piven has anything to do with it! The Piv has someone completely different in mind...
"I'd like to do a scene with Dustin Hoffman where I represent him and he's my client, and I'm really trying to get him to do a big movie that he'd never do," Piven told us at Xbox 360's EA Sports Madden NFL 10 launch party in Santa Monica. "That'd be like a dream come true."
Piven and Hoffman have actually already worked together in the 2003 big-screen adaptation of John Grisham's thriller The Runaway Jury. Even so, Piven jokes that the acting legend probably doesn't even know he's an Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor.
"I'm friends with his son," he said, "so I think that Dustin thinks I'm like the pool boy."
P.S. Yeah, we want to know how he feels about not snagging an Emmy nod this year, too. However, his handlers warned, Mr. Piven would not be answering questions about the snub.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Directors, actors geek out with fans at Comic-Con
SAN DIEGO – Robert Downey Jr. said he wish he could don a Mexican wrestling mask and stroll the Comic-Con floor to check out all the collectible toys and geeky-cool stuff. Peter Jackson joked about ducking out of a discussion with director James Cameron — which drew thousands of fans to the San Diego Convention Center's largest meeting hall — to walk the floor with fewer crowds.
Stars love Comic-Con — and not just because it's a great place to promote their movies. They're moved by the passion of the fans, and it seems to rejuvenate their own passion for working in film.
Fans at the pop-culture convention "not only celebrate fantasy and science fiction and fantastic worlds, but they celebrate each other, and they celebrate their geekness, and there's a sense of solidarity," said Cameron, who premiered footage from his anticipated 3D sci-fi adventure, "Avatar," to conventioneers on Thursday. "And what this group does is they make filmmakers do better. Because if you don't live up to their standards, you're not going to get past this. This is the launch pad right here."
The stars of "Twilight" — Taylor Lautner, Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart — said fans' overwhelming response at Comic-Con helped make their first film such a success. Kristen Bell, a veteran of five Cons, said, "it's the best place for super-fans."
Director Tim Burton, who showed a piece of his forthcoming "Alice in Wonderland," said he first came to Comic-Con as an aspiring filmmaker in the 1970s.
"I saw a slide show for the first `Superman.' People were very passionate about it and it kind of scared me," he said. "It's a very pure form of passion that it transcends business and anything else. Passion is a very good thing. And that's why you make movies that you hope people respond to, and so it's good to see and feel that energy here."
Actor Ben Foster, attending his second Comic-Con, also felt the fear.
"It's a zoo. It's a Halloween zoo," he said. "I have no idea how to process this place. It's funny. And then you have these waves of fear. ... I'm not accustomed to seeing this many people dressed up in samurai outfits and aliens, all in one space."
Comic-Con continues through Sunday.
Stars love Comic-Con — and not just because it's a great place to promote their movies. They're moved by the passion of the fans, and it seems to rejuvenate their own passion for working in film.
Fans at the pop-culture convention "not only celebrate fantasy and science fiction and fantastic worlds, but they celebrate each other, and they celebrate their geekness, and there's a sense of solidarity," said Cameron, who premiered footage from his anticipated 3D sci-fi adventure, "Avatar," to conventioneers on Thursday. "And what this group does is they make filmmakers do better. Because if you don't live up to their standards, you're not going to get past this. This is the launch pad right here."
The stars of "Twilight" — Taylor Lautner, Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart — said fans' overwhelming response at Comic-Con helped make their first film such a success. Kristen Bell, a veteran of five Cons, said, "it's the best place for super-fans."
Director Tim Burton, who showed a piece of his forthcoming "Alice in Wonderland," said he first came to Comic-Con as an aspiring filmmaker in the 1970s.
"I saw a slide show for the first `Superman.' People were very passionate about it and it kind of scared me," he said. "It's a very pure form of passion that it transcends business and anything else. Passion is a very good thing. And that's why you make movies that you hope people respond to, and so it's good to see and feel that energy here."
Actor Ben Foster, attending his second Comic-Con, also felt the fear.
"It's a zoo. It's a Halloween zoo," he said. "I have no idea how to process this place. It's funny. And then you have these waves of fear. ... I'm not accustomed to seeing this many people dressed up in samurai outfits and aliens, all in one space."
Comic-Con continues through Sunday.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Hot Fuzz director curates quirky film series at Toronto cinema
Hot Fuzz director Edgar Wright is revealing his quirky taste in films to Toronto audiences.
Wright, best known for his hit Shaun of the Dead, will introduce two of his favourite films, Army of Darkness and Team America: World Police, at the Bloor Cinema this Sunday as part of a screening series entitled The Wright Stuff.
The screening will also feature a conversation with the films' cinematographer, Bill Pope.
Army of Darkness is a comedy-horror film directed by Sam Raimi and is the third installment in the Evil Dead franchise. It stars Bruce Campbell as Ash Williams, a store employee who finds himself in the Middle Ages fighting the undead.
Another comedy, Team America: World Police is written by the creators of the popular animated series South Park. The film, which features a cast of marionettes, is a parody on big budget films, stereotypes and American politics. It focuses on Team America who must stop terrorists from performing evil acts.
Both films reflect the comedic undertone and gore Wright depicts in his own films.
Wright's series first began in late February with a double bill of his two hit comedies, Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. He next featured Don McKellar's Last Night and David Cronenberg's The Brood.
"[They are] two of my favorite Canadian films," Wright wrote on his blog.
In his blog, Wright also stated that Cronenberg's The Brood inspired him to do Shaun of the Dead.
The Brood is a 1979 Canadian horror film that focuses on an unconventional psychotherapist who uses a strange technique on his patients that causes them to physically change. The Chicago Film Critics Association listed the film as one of the 100 scariest movies of all time.
Wright is currently in Toronto shooting Scott Pilgrim vs. the World starring Michael Cera,
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is based on the popular graphic novel series and focuses on a boy named Scott Pilgrim who tries to woo a girl while battling her seven evil ex-boyfriends.
The film is slated to be released sometime next year.
Wright, best known for his hit Shaun of the Dead, will introduce two of his favourite films, Army of Darkness and Team America: World Police, at the Bloor Cinema this Sunday as part of a screening series entitled The Wright Stuff.
The screening will also feature a conversation with the films' cinematographer, Bill Pope.
Army of Darkness is a comedy-horror film directed by Sam Raimi and is the third installment in the Evil Dead franchise. It stars Bruce Campbell as Ash Williams, a store employee who finds himself in the Middle Ages fighting the undead.
Another comedy, Team America: World Police is written by the creators of the popular animated series South Park. The film, which features a cast of marionettes, is a parody on big budget films, stereotypes and American politics. It focuses on Team America who must stop terrorists from performing evil acts.
Both films reflect the comedic undertone and gore Wright depicts in his own films.
Wright's series first began in late February with a double bill of his two hit comedies, Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. He next featured Don McKellar's Last Night and David Cronenberg's The Brood.
"[They are] two of my favorite Canadian films," Wright wrote on his blog.
In his blog, Wright also stated that Cronenberg's The Brood inspired him to do Shaun of the Dead.
The Brood is a 1979 Canadian horror film that focuses on an unconventional psychotherapist who uses a strange technique on his patients that causes them to physically change. The Chicago Film Critics Association listed the film as one of the 100 scariest movies of all time.
Wright is currently in Toronto shooting Scott Pilgrim vs. the World starring Michael Cera,
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is based on the popular graphic novel series and focuses on a boy named Scott Pilgrim who tries to woo a girl while battling her seven evil ex-boyfriends.
The film is slated to be released sometime next year.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Search warrant says doctor is target of manslaughter investigation in Michael Jackson death
LOS ANGELES - Michael Jackson's personal doctor is the target of a manslaughter investigation into the singer's death.
A search warrant filed in a Houston court Thursday allowed authorities to seek evidence of whether Dr. Conrad Murray committed manslaughter. Murray is the cardiologist who was with Jackson when he died June 25.
Los Angeles police and federal drug agents used the warrant to seize items Wednesday from Murray's clinic in Houston.
The doctor's lawyer previously indicated authorities were seeking a manslaughter probe, but the warrant marks an official confirmation of the investigation.
A search warrant filed in a Houston court Thursday allowed authorities to seek evidence of whether Dr. Conrad Murray committed manslaughter. Murray is the cardiologist who was with Jackson when he died June 25.
Los Angeles police and federal drug agents used the warrant to seize items Wednesday from Murray's clinic in Houston.
The doctor's lawyer previously indicated authorities were seeking a manslaughter probe, but the warrant marks an official confirmation of the investigation.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Tribune Co seeks court OK to pay execs bonuses
NEW YORK (Reuters) – Bankrupt newspaper publisher Tribune Co has asked a federal bankruptcy judge to approve its plan to pay bonuses to its top employees.
The company, which publishes the Chicago Tribune and the Los Angeles Times, is seeking permission to continue its incentive plan that calls for bonuses of tens of millions in 2009 to 720 management employees, including its top 10 executives, according to documents filed Wednesday in federal bankruptcy court in Delaware.
The incentive plan calls for paying up to $35 million in a pool, as well paying 23 leaders of key operations a total of $9.3 million and another $3.1 million in all to nine of its top 10 executives.
A hearing on the request is scheduled for August 11 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware.
The Tribune Co filed for bankruptcy protection in December 2008, citing weakness in the newspaper industry and a need to restructure about $13 billion in debt.
The case is in Re Tribune Company et al, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Delaware, No 08-13141.
The company, which publishes the Chicago Tribune and the Los Angeles Times, is seeking permission to continue its incentive plan that calls for bonuses of tens of millions in 2009 to 720 management employees, including its top 10 executives, according to documents filed Wednesday in federal bankruptcy court in Delaware.
The incentive plan calls for paying up to $35 million in a pool, as well paying 23 leaders of key operations a total of $9.3 million and another $3.1 million in all to nine of its top 10 executives.
A hearing on the request is scheduled for August 11 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware.
The Tribune Co filed for bankruptcy protection in December 2008, citing weakness in the newspaper industry and a need to restructure about $13 billion in debt.
The case is in Re Tribune Company et al, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Delaware, No 08-13141.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Movie deal could strengthen hold on Jackson estate
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Even as they seek to account for all of Michael Jackson's business holdings, the two advisors he named co-executors of his will are working to generate income which could strengthen their grip on his multi-million dollar estate, legal experts said.
Attorney John Branca and business executive John McClain are in talks with AEG Live, the promoter of the London concerts Jackson was preparing for when he died on June 25, to sell videotape of the King of Pop's rehearsals that could be used to make a movie or DVD.
Hollywood studio Sony Pictures Entertainment, a unit of Japanese electronics giant Sony Corp., has been widely reported to be the lead studio for the deal because Sony's music division has rights to Jackson's recordings.
Media reports have said Sony will pay $50 million to $60 million for the footage, and an agreement could be announced any day. Sony and AEG Live repeatedly have declined comment.
Legal experts said this week that by helping AEG Live secure a deal, Branca and McClain could strengthen their bid for control of Jackson's estate by showing a judge they have acumen to handle Jackson's business.
"They may feel their negotiations (over rehearsal footage) would stand in their favor, because it does show they have the wherewithal to capitalize on the assets of the estate," said attorney Beth Kaufman, an expert in trusts and estates.
Branca and McClain were not available to comment.
At stake is control of the King of Pop's fortune that includes part ownership of music publishing firm Sony/ATV, which owns the rights to songs from the Beatles and numerous other music acts.
When he died, the "Thriller" singer left debts totaling as much as $500 million, but Jackson's share of Sony/ATV coupled with his own music company and other assets is believed to outweigh his debts by at least $200 million.
Initially the singer's mother, 79-year-old Katherine Jackson, was given temporary control over the estate, but a will signed by Jackson in 2002 surfaced naming Branca and McClain as executors.
A judge transferred temporary control to them, pending an August 3 hearing on the matter, and Katherine Jackson's attorneys have discussed possibly challenging their appointment.
Attorney Michael G. Dave, an expert in legal matters relating to wills, said Branca and McClain already have a clear advantage because Jackson's will nominates them as executors.
But Dave said that if Branca and McClain secure a deal over rehearsal footage, it could bolster their claim.
"You still put everything you can in, to favorably impress the court," Dave said.
In a statement, Katherine Jackson's attorney Londell McMillan said his client has not decided whether to formally challenge the appointment of Branca and McClain in court or seek the naming of a third-party co-executor.
Attorney John Branca and business executive John McClain are in talks with AEG Live, the promoter of the London concerts Jackson was preparing for when he died on June 25, to sell videotape of the King of Pop's rehearsals that could be used to make a movie or DVD.
Hollywood studio Sony Pictures Entertainment, a unit of Japanese electronics giant Sony Corp., has been widely reported to be the lead studio for the deal because Sony's music division has rights to Jackson's recordings.
Media reports have said Sony will pay $50 million to $60 million for the footage, and an agreement could be announced any day. Sony and AEG Live repeatedly have declined comment.
Legal experts said this week that by helping AEG Live secure a deal, Branca and McClain could strengthen their bid for control of Jackson's estate by showing a judge they have acumen to handle Jackson's business.
"They may feel their negotiations (over rehearsal footage) would stand in their favor, because it does show they have the wherewithal to capitalize on the assets of the estate," said attorney Beth Kaufman, an expert in trusts and estates.
Branca and McClain were not available to comment.
At stake is control of the King of Pop's fortune that includes part ownership of music publishing firm Sony/ATV, which owns the rights to songs from the Beatles and numerous other music acts.
When he died, the "Thriller" singer left debts totaling as much as $500 million, but Jackson's share of Sony/ATV coupled with his own music company and other assets is believed to outweigh his debts by at least $200 million.
Initially the singer's mother, 79-year-old Katherine Jackson, was given temporary control over the estate, but a will signed by Jackson in 2002 surfaced naming Branca and McClain as executors.
A judge transferred temporary control to them, pending an August 3 hearing on the matter, and Katherine Jackson's attorneys have discussed possibly challenging their appointment.
Attorney Michael G. Dave, an expert in legal matters relating to wills, said Branca and McClain already have a clear advantage because Jackson's will nominates them as executors.
But Dave said that if Branca and McClain secure a deal over rehearsal footage, it could bolster their claim.
"You still put everything you can in, to favorably impress the court," Dave said.
In a statement, Katherine Jackson's attorney Londell McMillan said his client has not decided whether to formally challenge the appointment of Branca and McClain in court or seek the naming of a third-party co-executor.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Beastie Boy Adam Yauch diagnosed with cancer
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Adam "MCA" Yauch, a founding member of rap group the Beastie Boys, said on Monday he has a cancerous tumor in his salivary gland, forcing the cancellation of the band's upcoming concerts.
Yauch said in an online video that the cancer is "very treatable in most cases," and it is localized in his neck and not affecting his vocal chords.
"I apologize to everybody, for anyone who's made plans or was psyched to come to these shows that are coming up," Yauch said. "We'll be back doing this, so that's what's up."
As a result of the diagnosis, the Beastie Boys will push back the release of their upcoming album "Hot Sauce Committee Part 1," the group's record label EMI said. The album had previously been set for release on September 15, and the tour would have supported its launch. No new dates were set.
Yauch said he started feeling a lump in his throat about two months ago and he recently checked with a doctor and was diagnosed with the cancerous growth in his left salivary gland and an adjacent lymph node.
Yauch added that he expects to have surgery next week, and would follow that with radiation treatment.
Reuters interviewed Yauch last week and he seemed upbeat when talking about the future. His record label said Yauch was diagnosed with the tumor last week.
Yauch said in an online video that the cancer is "very treatable in most cases," and it is localized in his neck and not affecting his vocal chords.
"I apologize to everybody, for anyone who's made plans or was psyched to come to these shows that are coming up," Yauch said. "We'll be back doing this, so that's what's up."
As a result of the diagnosis, the Beastie Boys will push back the release of their upcoming album "Hot Sauce Committee Part 1," the group's record label EMI said. The album had previously been set for release on September 15, and the tour would have supported its launch. No new dates were set.
Yauch said he started feeling a lump in his throat about two months ago and he recently checked with a doctor and was diagnosed with the cancerous growth in his left salivary gland and an adjacent lymph node.
Yauch added that he expects to have surgery next week, and would follow that with radiation treatment.
Reuters interviewed Yauch last week and he seemed upbeat when talking about the future. His record label said Yauch was diagnosed with the tumor last week.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Report: Abdul's return to 'American Idol' doubtful
NEW YORK – Paula Abdul's (ab-DOOL') new manager says she may not be returning to "American Idol."
According to a Los Angeles Times report, David Sonenberg says he doesn't have a proposal for a new contract for Abdul. He says it doesn't appear she'll be back.
Sonenberg began representing Abdul a few weeks ago.
Auditions for the ninth season of the highly rated Fox talent competition begin next month.
Abdul said recently she'd been invited to remain as an "American Idol" judge and was optimistic about negotiating a new contract.
Earlier this year, Fox entertainment president Kevin Reilly called Abdul "an integral part of the show."
The other "American Idol" judges are Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and newcomer Kara DioGuardi (KA'-ruh dee-oh-GWAHR'-dee).
According to a Los Angeles Times report, David Sonenberg says he doesn't have a proposal for a new contract for Abdul. He says it doesn't appear she'll be back.
Sonenberg began representing Abdul a few weeks ago.
Auditions for the ninth season of the highly rated Fox talent competition begin next month.
Abdul said recently she'd been invited to remain as an "American Idol" judge and was optimistic about negotiating a new contract.
Earlier this year, Fox entertainment president Kevin Reilly called Abdul "an integral part of the show."
The other "American Idol" judges are Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and newcomer Kara DioGuardi (KA'-ruh dee-oh-GWAHR'-dee).
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Paul McCartney plays first concert ever at Citi Field
NEW YORK - Sir Paul McCartney knighted another New York Mets baseball stadium Friday night, playing the first concert ever at Citi Field.
"Long time since I've been here," the former Beatle told the crowd, then paused to take it all in.
Citi Field is the successor to Shea Stadium, the baseball park where the Beatles played a historic concert in 1965 that's regarded as the precursor to the stadium rock concert.
Patty Parker attended Friday night's show and remembers the 1965 show well.
"I was three rows from the top. I was 10 years old," she said. "He captured that same tune; I'm so blown away."
Several times on Friday, McCartney alluded to that magical night 44 years ago. But he was also made it clear that it was less than perfect at times, saying: "The first time we played here, we couldn't hear a thing because of all the girls screaming and the stadium sound system."
Friday's two-and-a-half-hour show went more smoothly, highlighted by fireworks on and off the stage for "Live and Let Die" near the show's end.
McCartney played more than 30 songs, covering the Beatles, Wings and his solo catalogue. When he introduced "I'm Down," he said it was also played at the Shea Stadium concert.
The crowd rocked most of the night, which was also filled with heartfelt dedications. The most poignant went to McCartney's late wife before an emotional version of "My Love."
"We'd like to do a song dedicated to Linda," McCartney said. "She was a New York girl."
He also played the Beatles classics "Hey Jude," Let It Be" and "Back in the USSR."
When he performed "A Day in the Life," McCartney swapped out John Lennon's part at the end with a version of Lennon's "Give Peace a Chance," asking the crowd to join in.
For the encore, McCartney brought out Billy Joel for "I Saw Her Standing There." Last year, McCartney joined Joel on stage for the last concert at Shea Stadium.
"Long time since I've been here," the former Beatle told the crowd, then paused to take it all in.
Citi Field is the successor to Shea Stadium, the baseball park where the Beatles played a historic concert in 1965 that's regarded as the precursor to the stadium rock concert.
Patty Parker attended Friday night's show and remembers the 1965 show well.
"I was three rows from the top. I was 10 years old," she said. "He captured that same tune; I'm so blown away."
Several times on Friday, McCartney alluded to that magical night 44 years ago. But he was also made it clear that it was less than perfect at times, saying: "The first time we played here, we couldn't hear a thing because of all the girls screaming and the stadium sound system."
Friday's two-and-a-half-hour show went more smoothly, highlighted by fireworks on and off the stage for "Live and Let Die" near the show's end.
McCartney played more than 30 songs, covering the Beatles, Wings and his solo catalogue. When he introduced "I'm Down," he said it was also played at the Shea Stadium concert.
The crowd rocked most of the night, which was also filled with heartfelt dedications. The most poignant went to McCartney's late wife before an emotional version of "My Love."
"We'd like to do a song dedicated to Linda," McCartney said. "She was a New York girl."
He also played the Beatles classics "Hey Jude," Let It Be" and "Back in the USSR."
When he performed "A Day in the Life," McCartney swapped out John Lennon's part at the end with a version of Lennon's "Give Peace a Chance," asking the crowd to join in.
For the encore, McCartney brought out Billy Joel for "I Saw Her Standing There." Last year, McCartney joined Joel on stage for the last concert at Shea Stadium.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Second man dies after Madonna show stage collapse
MARSEILLE, France (Reuters) – A British worker died in hospital after being injured by a collapsing stage that was being built for a Madonna concert in the southern French city of Marseille, authorities said on Friday.
His death raises the toll from Thursday's collapse to two after a French worker was killed on the spot. Eight other workers were injured, five seriously.
Pop star Madonna had been scheduled to play the concert on Sunday but it was canceled immediately after the incident.
Part of the roof over the stage collapsed mid-afternoon on Thursday. A police source said one of the four cranes used to erect the stage slipped, causing the roof to buckle.
Marseille public prosecutors have launched an inquiry.
"Accounts from more than 50 people will be heard and the hearings will begin from Thursday evening," Marc Cimamonti, deputy prosecutor of Marseille, told a news conference.
"It is important to understand the material sequence of events and the responsibilities of each person. But 24 hours after the accident, it is totally premature to make any hypotheses," he said.
Madonna, who was in Italy at the time, issued a statement saying she was devastated by the news.
Marseille city authorities said all the victims worked for Live Nation, the company which was preparing the show.
His death raises the toll from Thursday's collapse to two after a French worker was killed on the spot. Eight other workers were injured, five seriously.
Pop star Madonna had been scheduled to play the concert on Sunday but it was canceled immediately after the incident.
Part of the roof over the stage collapsed mid-afternoon on Thursday. A police source said one of the four cranes used to erect the stage slipped, causing the roof to buckle.
Marseille public prosecutors have launched an inquiry.
"Accounts from more than 50 people will be heard and the hearings will begin from Thursday evening," Marc Cimamonti, deputy prosecutor of Marseille, told a news conference.
"It is important to understand the material sequence of events and the responsibilities of each person. But 24 hours after the accident, it is totally premature to make any hypotheses," he said.
Madonna, who was in Italy at the time, issued a statement saying she was devastated by the news.
Marseille city authorities said all the victims worked for Live Nation, the company which was preparing the show.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Big Letterman win in late-night
NEW YORK – There could be a new king emerging in late-night television.
David Letterman's CBS "Late Show" whipped NBC's "Tonight" show in the ratings last week by nearly 800,000 viewers, according to Nielsen Media Research. Letterman generally lost to "Tonight" when Jay Leno was the host, and he hasn't had this big a victory margin since returning from heart surgery in 2000.
A late-night generation gap also appears to be emerging: the median age of O'Brien's audience last week was more than 10 years younger than Letterman's. NBC says that's good news, since advertisers pay a premium to reach youthful audiences.
In the 18-to-49-year-old age demographic for which NBC sells advertising, O'Brien won each night last week, NBC said.
Still, Letterman has won two of the last three weeks among all viewers during which both men competed with original programming. And the "Late Show" received another boost Wednesday with an attention-getting appearance by Paul McCartney.
"We feel we've got the momentum going for us right now and we feel very confident," said David Poltrack, CBS' chief researcher.
He said network executives had privately been hoping that Letterman could gain ground against O'Brien and be able to take over first place in the fall. The situation is still fluid, but changes seems to be happening faster than they expected, Poltrack said.
Significant numbers of the traditional late-night audience have made the switch, even though O'Brien continues to be very popular with young viewers who liked him when he was on a later time slot.
Last week Letterman averaged 3.68 million viewers, compared to O'Brien's 2.82 million, Nielsen said.
David Letterman's CBS "Late Show" whipped NBC's "Tonight" show in the ratings last week by nearly 800,000 viewers, according to Nielsen Media Research. Letterman generally lost to "Tonight" when Jay Leno was the host, and he hasn't had this big a victory margin since returning from heart surgery in 2000.
A late-night generation gap also appears to be emerging: the median age of O'Brien's audience last week was more than 10 years younger than Letterman's. NBC says that's good news, since advertisers pay a premium to reach youthful audiences.
In the 18-to-49-year-old age demographic for which NBC sells advertising, O'Brien won each night last week, NBC said.
Still, Letterman has won two of the last three weeks among all viewers during which both men competed with original programming. And the "Late Show" received another boost Wednesday with an attention-getting appearance by Paul McCartney.
"We feel we've got the momentum going for us right now and we feel very confident," said David Poltrack, CBS' chief researcher.
He said network executives had privately been hoping that Letterman could gain ground against O'Brien and be able to take over first place in the fall. The situation is still fluid, but changes seems to be happening faster than they expected, Poltrack said.
Significant numbers of the traditional late-night audience have made the switch, even though O'Brien continues to be very popular with young viewers who liked him when he was on a later time slot.
Last week Letterman averaged 3.68 million viewers, compared to O'Brien's 2.82 million, Nielsen said.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Bridget Jones 3 in the works
Renée Zellweger is to return as the clumsy publishing executive Bridget Jones in a second sequel to the series based on author Helen Fielding's character.
Working Title Films has confirmed Zellweger will reprise her role in the third instalment of the Jones franchise. The film is said to be in development.
Audiences last saw the character of Bridget Jones become engaged to boyfriend Mark in the 2006 sequel, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason.
Bridget Jones 3 will most likely centre on Bridget's struggle to have a baby, according to trade paper Variety. The story will probably be based on weekly columns Fielding published in Britain's the Independent newspaper in 2005. Therein, she depicts Bridget in her 40s, trying to have a baby before her biological clock stops ticking.
First begun as a column, Bridget Jones's Diary became a bestseller novel that chronicled the adventures of a 30-something single woman in London looking for love. In 2001, the novel was adapted to the big screen starring Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Colin Firth.
The casting of a Texan as the British Bridget Jones caused quite a stir. Her performance later led to an Academy Award nomination for best actress.
There is no official title or release date set for Bridget Jones 3 as it is still in the early stages of production. The film is expected to start filming sometime at the end of next year.
Working Title Films has confirmed Zellweger will reprise her role in the third instalment of the Jones franchise. The film is said to be in development.
Audiences last saw the character of Bridget Jones become engaged to boyfriend Mark in the 2006 sequel, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason.
Bridget Jones 3 will most likely centre on Bridget's struggle to have a baby, according to trade paper Variety. The story will probably be based on weekly columns Fielding published in Britain's the Independent newspaper in 2005. Therein, she depicts Bridget in her 40s, trying to have a baby before her biological clock stops ticking.
First begun as a column, Bridget Jones's Diary became a bestseller novel that chronicled the adventures of a 30-something single woman in London looking for love. In 2001, the novel was adapted to the big screen starring Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Colin Firth.
The casting of a Texan as the British Bridget Jones caused quite a stir. Her performance later led to an Academy Award nomination for best actress.
There is no official title or release date set for Bridget Jones 3 as it is still in the early stages of production. The film is expected to start filming sometime at the end of next year.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
"Big Valley" en route to big screen
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) – The 1960s TV Western "The Big Valley" will be revisited as a feature film.
Producer Kate Edelman Johnson is spinning a big-screen project out of the show co-created by her father, producer Louis F. Edelman, and writer A.I. Bezzerides. The series, which ran on ABC from 1965-69, starred Barbara Stanwyck as the matriarch of a ranching clan in California's San Joaquin Valley in the 1870s. Lee Majors, Richard Long and Linda Evans were among the regulars.
Daniel Adams ("The Golden Boys") has written the screenplay and will direct.
Edelman produced such films as "White Heat" (1949) and "You Were Never Lovelier" (1942) as well as such TV series as "The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp" and "The Danny Thomas Show."
Bezzerides wrote the 1955 film "Kiss Me Deadly" and the novel that inspired "They Drive By Night" (1940).
Producer Kate Edelman Johnson is spinning a big-screen project out of the show co-created by her father, producer Louis F. Edelman, and writer A.I. Bezzerides. The series, which ran on ABC from 1965-69, starred Barbara Stanwyck as the matriarch of a ranching clan in California's San Joaquin Valley in the 1870s. Lee Majors, Richard Long and Linda Evans were among the regulars.
Daniel Adams ("The Golden Boys") has written the screenplay and will direct.
Edelman produced such films as "White Heat" (1949) and "You Were Never Lovelier" (1942) as well as such TV series as "The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp" and "The Danny Thomas Show."
Bezzerides wrote the 1955 film "Kiss Me Deadly" and the novel that inspired "They Drive By Night" (1940).
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
McGraw-Hill trying to sell BusinessWeek: source
NEW YORK (Reuters) – McGraw-Hill Cos Inc is trying to sell BusinessWeek magazine, a source told Reuters on Monday, at a time when media advertising sales are slumping and would-be buyers for newspapers and magazines are scarce.
McGraw hired boutique investment bank Evercore Partners Inc to manage the sale, said the source, who was familiar with the situation but not authorized to discuss it publicly.
McGraw said on Monday afternoon that it was "exploring strategic options" for BusinessWeek, a common euphemism used by companies exploring asset sales. The company offered no other details. Evercore declined to comment.
BusinessWeek, founded in 1929, has around 4.8 million readers each week in 140 countries, according to the magazine's website. It built its name on articles about business and finance for the investment community, as well as general audiences interested in stocks, bonds and other investments.
McGraw hired boutique investment bank Evercore Partners Inc to manage the sale, said the source, who was familiar with the situation but not authorized to discuss it publicly.
McGraw said on Monday afternoon that it was "exploring strategic options" for BusinessWeek, a common euphemism used by companies exploring asset sales. The company offered no other details. Evercore declined to comment.
BusinessWeek, founded in 1929, has around 4.8 million readers each week in 140 countries, according to the magazine's website. It built its name on articles about business and finance for the investment community, as well as general audiences interested in stocks, bonds and other investments.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Yemen forces disperse rally over suspended paper
ADEN, Yemen (Reuters) – Yemeni forces dispersed on Sunday a rally of 200 people in Aden protesting the suspension of a newspaper which the government accuses of seeking to divide the Arabian peninsula country, witnesses said.
Yemen, which has been battling a wave of al Qaeda attacks, has witnessed sporadic clashes between police and locals in southern towns where secessionist sentiment is strong.
People in the south, home to most of Yemen's oil facilities, have long complained that northerners abused the unity agreement to grab their resources and discriminate against them.
The Yemen News website said about 15 of the al-Ayam newspaper employees were arrested in the rally.
Security forces blocked access routes to the protest area and barred gatherings of more than two people, they said.
Yemen suspended a number of newspapers in May after accusing them of seeking to divide the country amid a rise in secessionist sentiment in the south.
Yemen, which has been battling a wave of al Qaeda attacks, has witnessed sporadic clashes between police and locals in southern towns where secessionist sentiment is strong.
People in the south, home to most of Yemen's oil facilities, have long complained that northerners abused the unity agreement to grab their resources and discriminate against them.
The Yemen News website said about 15 of the al-Ayam newspaper employees were arrested in the rally.
Security forces blocked access routes to the protest area and barred gatherings of more than two people, they said.
Yemen suspended a number of newspapers in May after accusing them of seeking to divide the country amid a rise in secessionist sentiment in the south.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Dillinger's Ohio crime spree left out of new movie
TOLEDO, Ohio – Before becoming Public Enemy No. 1, gangster John Dillinger pulled off his first bank robbery in a sleepy Ohio town.
Police captured him months later when they swarmed his girlfriend's apartment, but within weeks he brazenly strolled out of jail after his gang killed a rural sheriff.
His Ohio escapades aren't part of the new movie "Public Enemies," which tells of his life on the run after an escape from an Indiana prison and of his death in Chicago. But his rise from small-town bank robber to America's most wanted man can be traced to a string of holdups during the summer of 1933 and the daring escape that left the Ohio lawman dead.
Even though Dillinger didn't kill the sheriff, it was the first murder in which he was involved, said John Carnes, curator of collections at the Allen County Museum in Lima.
"After the sheriff was killed," Carnes said, "everybody knew about him."
Police captured him months later when they swarmed his girlfriend's apartment, but within weeks he brazenly strolled out of jail after his gang killed a rural sheriff.
His Ohio escapades aren't part of the new movie "Public Enemies," which tells of his life on the run after an escape from an Indiana prison and of his death in Chicago. But his rise from small-town bank robber to America's most wanted man can be traced to a string of holdups during the summer of 1933 and the daring escape that left the Ohio lawman dead.
Even though Dillinger didn't kill the sheriff, it was the first murder in which he was involved, said John Carnes, curator of collections at the Allen County Museum in Lima.
"After the sheriff was killed," Carnes said, "everybody knew about him."
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Wary Christmas looms for music retailers
NEW YORK (Billboard) – Retailers expect music sales to be better during the Christmas shopping season than the rest of this year, but most anticipate a case of the holiday blues.
"Last year was such a bad Christmas for music sales that if we can't top that, then we've got a serious problem on our hands," says a purchasing executive at a retail chain who asked to remain anonymous because he isn't authorized to speak about sales projections.
The executive expects year-end sales to be up from last year, which would be the first time since 2003 that fourth-quarter U.S. recorded-music sales haven't posted a year-on-year decline.
But that's one of the more optimistic forecasts. Others say they assume that year-end recorded-music sales will slide in line with the rest of 2009, when year-to-date sales have dropped 14.5 percent from the same period last year, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
A strong release schedule could help slow the decline. High-profile releases expected this fall include albums by Jay-Z, 50 Cent, T-Pain, Leona Lewis and Shakira. But merchants and distribution executives say it's too early to assess the impact of this year's slate.
"Last year was such a bad Christmas for music sales that if we can't top that, then we've got a serious problem on our hands," says a purchasing executive at a retail chain who asked to remain anonymous because he isn't authorized to speak about sales projections.
The executive expects year-end sales to be up from last year, which would be the first time since 2003 that fourth-quarter U.S. recorded-music sales haven't posted a year-on-year decline.
But that's one of the more optimistic forecasts. Others say they assume that year-end recorded-music sales will slide in line with the rest of 2009, when year-to-date sales have dropped 14.5 percent from the same period last year, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
A strong release schedule could help slow the decline. High-profile releases expected this fall include albums by Jay-Z, 50 Cent, T-Pain, Leona Lewis and Shakira. But merchants and distribution executives say it's too early to assess the impact of this year's slate.
Friday, July 10, 2009
LAPD: Michael Jackson's drug history to be probed
LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles police chief says detectives investigating the death of Michael Jackson are looking at his prescription drug history and trying to talk with his numerous former doctors.
Police Chief William Bratton told CNN on Thursday that police are waiting for the coroner's report before ruling out any possibilities in their "comprehensive and far-reaching" investigation into the sudden death of the 50-year-old pop star two weeks ago.
The coroner's report will determine the cause of death and hinges on time-consuming toxicology tests, but detectives are already gathering evidence.
Bratton says the Drug Enforcement Agency and the state attorney general's office, which keeps a database of prescription drugs, are assisting investigators.
Police Chief William Bratton told CNN on Thursday that police are waiting for the coroner's report before ruling out any possibilities in their "comprehensive and far-reaching" investigation into the sudden death of the 50-year-old pop star two weeks ago.
The coroner's report will determine the cause of death and hinges on time-consuming toxicology tests, but detectives are already gathering evidence.
Bratton says the Drug Enforcement Agency and the state attorney general's office, which keeps a database of prescription drugs, are assisting investigators.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
News Corp won't buy Twitter, won't sell MySpace
SUN VALLEY, Idaho (Reuters) – News Corp is not interested in buying popular microblogging site Twitter and will not sell its struggling social network MySpace, chief executive Rupert Murdoch said on Wednesday.
Murdoch, attending Sun Valley media and technology conference, said Twitter would be a tough investment to justify because it has not yet come up with a sustainable way to make money.
"Be careful of investing here," he said of Twitter.
Speculation is running rampant at the 27th Sun Valley conference over which company might want to buy Twitter. The service, which lets people post to Web what they are thinking or doing in 140 characters or less, is growing in popularity.
Twitter co-founder Evan Williams is widely considered one of the darlings of this year's conference. Sun Valley often features hot Internet start-ups that older media conglomerates would like to buy to enhance their own businesses.
Murdoch, attending Sun Valley media and technology conference, said Twitter would be a tough investment to justify because it has not yet come up with a sustainable way to make money.
"Be careful of investing here," he said of Twitter.
Speculation is running rampant at the 27th Sun Valley conference over which company might want to buy Twitter. The service, which lets people post to Web what they are thinking or doing in 140 characters or less, is growing in popularity.
Twitter co-founder Evan Williams is widely considered one of the darlings of this year's conference. Sun Valley often features hot Internet start-ups that older media conglomerates would like to buy to enhance their own businesses.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Stars sing for Jackson in emotional farewell
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder and Usher led an emotional public memorial for Michael Jackson on Tuesday as the music world, the Jackson family and thousands of fans bade farewell to the "King of Pop."
Jackson's brothers, each wearing a single sequined glove in homage to his signature look, carried the singer's gold-trimmed casket into the Staples Center sports arena, where Jackson had rehearsed the day before his death for a highly-anticipated series of comeback concerts.
Carey performed Jackson's 1970 ballad "I'll Be There" and singer Smokey Robinson read out tributes from former South African president Nelson Mandela and singer Diana Ross.
But it was Jackson himself who loomed larger than life over the 18,000-plus arena crowd, shown in old concert footage, music videos and news clips, singing, dancing his signature moonwalk and surrounded by adoring crowds.
"The more I think about Michael, and talk about Michael, the more I think that 'King of Pop' is not good enough," said Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, who signed The Jackson 5 in 1968. "I think he is simply the greatest entertainer that ever lived."
Jackson's brothers, each wearing a single sequined glove in homage to his signature look, carried the singer's gold-trimmed casket into the Staples Center sports arena, where Jackson had rehearsed the day before his death for a highly-anticipated series of comeback concerts.
Carey performed Jackson's 1970 ballad "I'll Be There" and singer Smokey Robinson read out tributes from former South African president Nelson Mandela and singer Diana Ross.
But it was Jackson himself who loomed larger than life over the 18,000-plus arena crowd, shown in old concert footage, music videos and news clips, singing, dancing his signature moonwalk and surrounded by adoring crowds.
"The more I think about Michael, and talk about Michael, the more I think that 'King of Pop' is not good enough," said Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, who signed The Jackson 5 in 1968. "I think he is simply the greatest entertainer that ever lived."
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Beau Bridges joins "Columbus Circle"
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) – Beau Bridges is taking one of the principal roles in the indie thriller "Columbus Circle," which centers on a reclusive heiress.
Selma Blair plays Abigail, who hasn't left her upscale Manhattan apartment building in nearly two decades. She's in contact with only two people: her building's concierge, Klandermann (Kevin Pollak), with whom she communicates via notes, and Dr. Raymond Fontaine (Bridges), a longtime family friend and her sole confidant for most of her life.
Abigail must face her fears when a detective (Giovanni Ribisi) shows up to investigate a homicide next door and a new couple (Amy Smart and Jason Lee) moves in to that apartment.
George Gallo is directing the feature from a script he co-wrote with Pollak.
Bridges' recent credits include a recurring role on NBC's "My Name Is Earl," a guest turn on ABC's "Desperate Housewives" and a part in the 2008 movie "Max Payne."
Selma Blair plays Abigail, who hasn't left her upscale Manhattan apartment building in nearly two decades. She's in contact with only two people: her building's concierge, Klandermann (Kevin Pollak), with whom she communicates via notes, and Dr. Raymond Fontaine (Bridges), a longtime family friend and her sole confidant for most of her life.
Abigail must face her fears when a detective (Giovanni Ribisi) shows up to investigate a homicide next door and a new couple (Amy Smart and Jason Lee) moves in to that apartment.
George Gallo is directing the feature from a script he co-wrote with Pollak.
Bridges' recent credits include a recurring role on NBC's "My Name Is Earl," a guest turn on ABC's "Desperate Housewives" and a part in the 2008 movie "Max Payne."
Monday, July 06, 2009
Jason Sudeikis is a "Distance" runner
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) – "Saturday Night Live" veteran Jason Sudeikis is in final negotiations to join Drew Barrymore and Justin Long in the romantic comedy "Going the Distance."
Sudeikis will play Box, a friend of Garrett's (Long) who counsels him against trying to maintain his long-distance relationship with Barrymore's character. Charlie Day and Christina Applegate also were recently cast.
Documentary veteran Nanette Burstein ("The Kid Stays in the Picture") is directing the New Line film.
Sudeikis was a writer on "Saturday Night Live" before becoming a regular cast member four years ago. He appeared in "The Rocker" and "What Happens in Vegas" and recently was cast in the Columbia comedy "Bounty Hunter" opposite Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler.
Sudeikis also appears regularly on the NBC series "30 Rock" and voices two characters on "Cleveland," Seth MacFarlane's new animated comedy series that Fox will air in the fall.
Sudeikis will play Box, a friend of Garrett's (Long) who counsels him against trying to maintain his long-distance relationship with Barrymore's character. Charlie Day and Christina Applegate also were recently cast.
Documentary veteran Nanette Burstein ("The Kid Stays in the Picture") is directing the New Line film.
Sudeikis was a writer on "Saturday Night Live" before becoming a regular cast member four years ago. He appeared in "The Rocker" and "What Happens in Vegas" and recently was cast in the Columbia comedy "Bounty Hunter" opposite Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler.
Sudeikis also appears regularly on the NBC series "30 Rock" and voices two characters on "Cleveland," Seth MacFarlane's new animated comedy series that Fox will air in the fall.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Fans overlook Michael Jackson's dark side
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Just as people choose to forget that Elvis Presley was a bloated drug addict when he died, so Michael Jackson is now the subject of posthumous veneration that overlooks the dark side of his life.
Jackson's career was all but comatose four years ago when he stood trial for child molestation in California. Despite lurid testimony from a 13-year-old boy who said that Jackson conducted sexual acts with him, a jury decided he was not guilty. But damage had been done.
"It was all over after the trial," said veteran rock critic Dave Marsh, author of the 1985 book "Trapped: Michael Jackson and the Crossover Dream." "For me, I think he was dead as a celebrity before he was dead as a person. It was pretty pathetic, the last few years. He managed to whittle himself down to size. It's a shame, really."
In the days following the self-proclaimed king of pop's death on June 25 aged 50, reports of prescription-drug abuse have served as eerie reminders of the pharmaceutical cocktails that Presley was taking before he died in 1977.
Jackson's career was all but comatose four years ago when he stood trial for child molestation in California. Despite lurid testimony from a 13-year-old boy who said that Jackson conducted sexual acts with him, a jury decided he was not guilty. But damage had been done.
"It was all over after the trial," said veteran rock critic Dave Marsh, author of the 1985 book "Trapped: Michael Jackson and the Crossover Dream." "For me, I think he was dead as a celebrity before he was dead as a person. It was pretty pathetic, the last few years. He managed to whittle himself down to size. It's a shame, really."
In the days following the self-proclaimed king of pop's death on June 25 aged 50, reports of prescription-drug abuse have served as eerie reminders of the pharmaceutical cocktails that Presley was taking before he died in 1977.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Massive demand for Michael Jackson memorial tickets
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – More than half a million fans from around the world applied for 17,500 free tickets to Michael Jackson's public memorial service next week, organizers said on Friday as a massive security operation got underway.
The life and music of the self-proclaimed "king of pop," who died of sudden cardiac arrest last Thursday, will be celebrated on Tuesday at the Staples Center, a basketball arena in downtown Los Angeles.
Officials on Friday unveiled an ambitious online lottery that will allow fans to attend either the televised service at the arena or watch the proceedings on a big screen at the nearby Nokia Theater.
But within minutes, the staplescenter.com (http://www.staplescenter.com) server crashed. Officials warned additional disruptions were likely as fans logged on ahead of the Saturday deadline at 6 p.m. PDT (9 p.m. EDT Sunday).
"You might want to consider watching this from the comfort of your own home," said Los Angeles City Councilwoman Jan Perry, who is doubling as the city's acting mayor.
The life and music of the self-proclaimed "king of pop," who died of sudden cardiac arrest last Thursday, will be celebrated on Tuesday at the Staples Center, a basketball arena in downtown Los Angeles.
Officials on Friday unveiled an ambitious online lottery that will allow fans to attend either the televised service at the arena or watch the proceedings on a big screen at the nearby Nokia Theater.
But within minutes, the staplescenter.com (http://www.staplescenter.com) server crashed. Officials warned additional disruptions were likely as fans logged on ahead of the Saturday deadline at 6 p.m. PDT (9 p.m. EDT Sunday).
"You might want to consider watching this from the comfort of your own home," said Los Angeles City Councilwoman Jan Perry, who is doubling as the city's acting mayor.
Friday, July 03, 2009
Michael Jackson memorial set for Tuesday
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – A public memorial for pop star Michael Jackson took shape Thursday when a concert backer and family spokesman said the event would take place next week, even as doubt lingered over the guardianship of the singer's children.
The pop star's former wife Debbie Rowe told a Los Angeles TV station she wanted to care for her two children with Jackson, but her attorney said her words were distorted and a court hearing over custody was delayed by one week.
A public memorial for Jackson, who died suddenly last week, will be held Tuesday in Los Angeles, and about 11,000 tickets will be given away free of charge for the 20,000-seat Staples Center arena, said concert promoter AEG Live and family representative, Sunshine Sachs & Associates.
The pair said in a statement issued late Thursday the memorial was set for 10 a.m. PDT at the rock concert and sporting venue in downtown Los Angeles, and that further details would be unveiled Friday morning.
The pop star's former wife Debbie Rowe told a Los Angeles TV station she wanted to care for her two children with Jackson, but her attorney said her words were distorted and a court hearing over custody was delayed by one week.
A public memorial for Jackson, who died suddenly last week, will be held Tuesday in Los Angeles, and about 11,000 tickets will be given away free of charge for the 20,000-seat Staples Center arena, said concert promoter AEG Live and family representative, Sunshine Sachs & Associates.
The pair said in a statement issued late Thursday the memorial was set for 10 a.m. PDT at the rock concert and sporting venue in downtown Los Angeles, and that further details would be unveiled Friday morning.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Christian Slater closes in on role in ABC series
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) – Christian Slater is in negotiations to star in the new ABC series "The Forgotten."
The mystery drama revolves around a group of amateur detectives led by a former cop (Slater) whose 11-year-old daughter was kidnapped three years earlier.
Slater would replace British actor Rupert Penry-Jones, who played the lead in the pilot. Another role, that of a female member of the sleuth squad, also is being recast.
"Forgotten" will air at 10 p.m. Tuesdays and is scheduled to bow September 22. It would mark Slater's second turn as a TV leading man after last year's short-lived NBC spy drama "My Own Worst Enemy," for which he received good reviews.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
O'Neal leads mourners at Farrah Fawcett funeral
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Actor Ryan O'Neal led friends and family in a private funeral service on Tuesday for actress Farrah Fawcett, who died last week aged 62 after a long and public battle with cancer.
O'Neal, the long-time companion of the "Charlie's Angels" star, was one of the pall-bearers and gave a reading at the service at Los Angeles Roman Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.
Redmond O'Neal, the "Love Story" actor's 24-year-old son with Fawcett, was allowed briefly out of jail where he is being held on drugs possession charges to attend the funeral service. Redmond also gave a bible reading, according to a program made available to the media.
Fellow "Charlie's Angels" star Kate Jackson, former model Cheryl Tiegs and rocker Rod Stewart's ex-wife Alana Stewart were also among the mourners. Fawcett's Los Angeles cancer doctor, Dr. Lawrence Piro, delivered the eulogy with Stewart.
Fawcett's coffin was taken into the church as a quartet of musicians played "Amazing Grace" and Irving Berlin love song "Always", according to the program.
O'Neal, the long-time companion of the "Charlie's Angels" star, was one of the pall-bearers and gave a reading at the service at Los Angeles Roman Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.
Redmond O'Neal, the "Love Story" actor's 24-year-old son with Fawcett, was allowed briefly out of jail where he is being held on drugs possession charges to attend the funeral service. Redmond also gave a bible reading, according to a program made available to the media.
Fellow "Charlie's Angels" star Kate Jackson, former model Cheryl Tiegs and rocker Rod Stewart's ex-wife Alana Stewart were also among the mourners. Fawcett's Los Angeles cancer doctor, Dr. Lawrence Piro, delivered the eulogy with Stewart.
Fawcett's coffin was taken into the church as a quartet of musicians played "Amazing Grace" and Irving Berlin love song "Always", according to the program.
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