May 2, 2005 -- LAS VEGAS — This past weekend, Steve Wynn's $2.7 billion hotel the Wynn opened. So many private planes that they had to fly into the nearby airport of Hendersonville.
May 7, with a hip Brett Ratner party, the younger crowd tests out the place. This weekend was the older money. Not the tattooed navels set. The Tiffany jewels set. Like the Steve Roths. He owns Vornado realty. The Sidney Poitiers. He owns Oscars. The Donald Trumps. You know what he owns.
The Leonard Lauders. He was shop shopping. Checking out the hotel's Dior, Chanel, Brioni, Vuitton, Cartier, Graff stores. She'd gone antiquing. In a town where money goes as fast as marriages in L.A., antique shops and hock shops are a great bet.
It was Elizabeth Taylor in a wheelchair. Steve Lawrence, but Edie Gorme I didn't see. Leslie Moonves and Julie Chen, who said: "I went to work 4 a.m. to do the morning show. I finished 6 a.m., so I'm here to enjoy." Connie Chung and Maury Povich, who said: "It's the last opening where you'll ever see me." I don't know what that means but I wrote it down anyway. Dominick Dunne, trolling for Vanity Fair gossip, was to dine with a couple in the Steakhouse but couldn't remember who, and is probably still standing at the maitre d's desk. Robert Wagner and Jill St. John. She'd suffered a fall skiing in Aspen, had surgery, now has a cane and said: "My healing present, all I want is for my husband to take me for a visit to New York."
Faces like George Hamilton with ex-wife and best pal Alana; Burt Bacharach, who personally escorted his wife to the loo; Barbara Sinatra; Carl Icahn; Barbara Walters, with the Oscar de la Rentas. Charlie Rose who interviewed Steve Wynn. Names like Bud Yorkin, health nut Kirk Kerkorian, who's nearly 90, looks 60 and never had a facelift. Paul Anka who opens mid-August on a four-year deal with Atlantic City's Borgata. Food critic Gael Greene schlepping around the different restaurants. Remember Siegfried and Roy's horrific tiger mauling experience? Hospitalized Roy unable to talk for months and months? Both came, Roy in a wheelchair and speaking to friends.
Shaking all hands, papa President George Bush without Barbara but with Secret Service. On one side of the casino that breaks even on $2 mil a day — Lee Iacocca. Near the baccarat dealers imported from Foxwoods — Tommy Mottola. Chefs Daniel Boulud and Sirio Maccioni. Manolo Blahnik, who, when Mrs. Barry Slotnick asked: "Why aren't your shoes made wider?" blew her off with: "Ask my managers." And two great-looking broads side by side. I don't know about bewitched, bothered and bewildered. About be-furred and be-diamonded Natalie Cole and Patti LaBelle, I know. Sing and bling. Or as Patti put it: "Girl, only Jews and blacks really get it together."
Donna Karan fresh from Bali: "My late husband Steve's sculptures are in front of the hotel. How could I not be here?" Atlantis owner Sol Kerzner sniffing out the competition. Everyone whispering how great Don Johnson looks, and him whispering: "I'm happy to be here. It's our anniversary. My wife and I are married six years."
Paramount movie chief Sherry Lansing and husband Billy Friedkin, off to Israel for five weeks. Said Sherry: "I'm excited. I hear there's a Banana Republic and Gap in Tel Aviv." Steven Spielberg and Kate the missus. He got onstage when Hugh Jackman introduced him, and when he got off-stage he told me: "It was unrehearsed. I didn't know he'd call me, and I was worried I'd trip going up the stairs." Lordy, those amateurs are all the same.
Had anything happened in that ballroom, America's entire entertainment industry would have gone splat. It was songwriter Carole Bayer Sager, moneymaker Barry Diller, record king Clive Davis, Grammy-winning musicman David Foster, George Schlatter, who every four years organizes our Inaugurals.
Monday, May 02, 2005
Sunday, May 01, 2005
'Love Letters' starring couple is far from stationary
Rialto performance: Famous husband and wife take stage
Traditionally, it's good luck to tell an actor to break a leg before a live performance.
But Jill St. John wants everyone to know she's recovering well from the February skiing accident that resulted in a fractured hip.
"She's a very lucky lady," said her husband, Robert Wagner, during a recent phone interview.
"Of course," he mused, "being married to her, I'm a very lucky man."
St. John said she was moved by the number of cards and letters she received after her accident.
"I was overwhelmed by all the good wishes," she said. "(Written communication) is very special, so I wrote many letters thanking people for their thoughts."
Letters are what tell the story of a relationship spanning 50 years in A.R. Gurney's "Love Letters," which the couple will appear in May 7 at the Rialto Square Theatre.
The play chronicles, solely through correspondence, the lifelong relationship between a man and woman. The writings follow the characters from their meeting in second grade to middle age.
"It's a beautifully written story," Wagner said. "Good writing is an actor's dream. There are challenges. There's happiness and sadness. There's humor, but there are also missed opportunities. Like the best stories, it's a lot like real life."
In real life, there seem to be few opportunities that Wagner has missed.
His career includes more than 50 years of starring roles in movies and television. He's known for classic television series — such as "Hart To Hart" and "It Takes A Thief" — as well as recent roles in the "Austin Powers" film series and TV's "Hope And Faith."
St. John has appeared in many television shows and more than 30 movies, appearing with Frank Sinatra in "Tony Rome" and Sean Connery's James Bond in "Diamonds Are Forever." She also hosted "Good Morning America's" cooking segment for three years.
Both screen veterans said they enjoy the challenge of performing in front of a live audience.
"It's a privilege to be on the stage," Wagner said. "Whatever you do lasts for just a moment between you and the audience. Once it's in the air, it's gone and you'll never repeat it exactly the same way. Each time is different."
St. John said she found the needed physicality to be the biggest difference.
"If you have a quiet moment on film, they bring everything close to you. On stage you have to project your voice to be heard without losing the emotion of the scene," she said.
Both feel their off-stage relationship helps their performance and vice-versa.
"It's great to work with someone you can trust when you're out there," Wagner said.
"And it's easier off-stage knowing that you're working toward the same goals," St. John said.
In addition to performing, St. John is writing a series of three new cookbooks.
Wagner will be seen in "The Fallen Ones," which premieres on the Sci-Fi Channel on May 14. He's also producing a few upcoming movies.
"We're the quintessential show-biz family," Wagner said. "Our bags and makeup are always packed and ready to go."
For this production, St. John hopes audiences will be able to relate to the characters.
"It's a very personal story, but it shows the human condition," she said. "People of any age, from any level of society will be able to appreciate both the problems and the happiness that they see in the play."
"And," Wagner said, "I hope they fall more in love."
"Love Letters" will be at the Rialto Square Theatre for a dinner theater engagement at 6 p.m. May 7. A limited number of seats are available. Show-only tickets, for the 8 p.m. curtain time, will be sold too.
Tickets are $65.50 for the dinner theater or $42.50 for the show only. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Rialto box office, at 102 N. Chicago St. in Joliet; by calling (815) 726-6600 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mondays to Fridays or 9 a.m. and noon Saturdays; or by going to www.rialtosquare.com. Tickets also may be purchased through all Ticketmaster outlets; call (312) 902-1500 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.
Traditionally, it's good luck to tell an actor to break a leg before a live performance.
But Jill St. John wants everyone to know she's recovering well from the February skiing accident that resulted in a fractured hip.
"She's a very lucky lady," said her husband, Robert Wagner, during a recent phone interview.
"Of course," he mused, "being married to her, I'm a very lucky man."
St. John said she was moved by the number of cards and letters she received after her accident.
"I was overwhelmed by all the good wishes," she said. "(Written communication) is very special, so I wrote many letters thanking people for their thoughts."
Letters are what tell the story of a relationship spanning 50 years in A.R. Gurney's "Love Letters," which the couple will appear in May 7 at the Rialto Square Theatre.
The play chronicles, solely through correspondence, the lifelong relationship between a man and woman. The writings follow the characters from their meeting in second grade to middle age.
"It's a beautifully written story," Wagner said. "Good writing is an actor's dream. There are challenges. There's happiness and sadness. There's humor, but there are also missed opportunities. Like the best stories, it's a lot like real life."
In real life, there seem to be few opportunities that Wagner has missed.
His career includes more than 50 years of starring roles in movies and television. He's known for classic television series — such as "Hart To Hart" and "It Takes A Thief" — as well as recent roles in the "Austin Powers" film series and TV's "Hope And Faith."
St. John has appeared in many television shows and more than 30 movies, appearing with Frank Sinatra in "Tony Rome" and Sean Connery's James Bond in "Diamonds Are Forever." She also hosted "Good Morning America's" cooking segment for three years.
Both screen veterans said they enjoy the challenge of performing in front of a live audience.
"It's a privilege to be on the stage," Wagner said. "Whatever you do lasts for just a moment between you and the audience. Once it's in the air, it's gone and you'll never repeat it exactly the same way. Each time is different."
St. John said she found the needed physicality to be the biggest difference.
"If you have a quiet moment on film, they bring everything close to you. On stage you have to project your voice to be heard without losing the emotion of the scene," she said.
Both feel their off-stage relationship helps their performance and vice-versa.
"It's great to work with someone you can trust when you're out there," Wagner said.
"And it's easier off-stage knowing that you're working toward the same goals," St. John said.
In addition to performing, St. John is writing a series of three new cookbooks.
Wagner will be seen in "The Fallen Ones," which premieres on the Sci-Fi Channel on May 14. He's also producing a few upcoming movies.
"We're the quintessential show-biz family," Wagner said. "Our bags and makeup are always packed and ready to go."
For this production, St. John hopes audiences will be able to relate to the characters.
"It's a very personal story, but it shows the human condition," she said. "People of any age, from any level of society will be able to appreciate both the problems and the happiness that they see in the play."
"And," Wagner said, "I hope they fall more in love."
"Love Letters" will be at the Rialto Square Theatre for a dinner theater engagement at 6 p.m. May 7. A limited number of seats are available. Show-only tickets, for the 8 p.m. curtain time, will be sold too.
Tickets are $65.50 for the dinner theater or $42.50 for the show only. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Rialto box office, at 102 N. Chicago St. in Joliet; by calling (815) 726-6600 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mondays to Fridays or 9 a.m. and noon Saturdays; or by going to www.rialtosquare.com. Tickets also may be purchased through all Ticketmaster outlets; call (312) 902-1500 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
Wishful Shopping
A peek at items in PONCHO's gala arts-benefit auction Saturday at the Seattle Sheraton is like a look at a Neiman-Marcus' holiday catalog on steroids.
PONCHO treasures include the bronze sign off the Bon Marche flagship store (value: ``priceless,'' say auction gurus).
Also up for bid: two tickets for the 2006 British Open Golf Championship (value: $1,800); dinner for 10 at the Schwarz's, with film stars Robert Wagner and Jill St. John, plus blue-topaz-diamond earrings (value: $8,500), and a guitar signed by rocker Elvis Costello (value: priceless).
You may have to battle Mercer Island billionaire and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen for that one.
PONCHO treasures include the bronze sign off the Bon Marche flagship store (value: ``priceless,'' say auction gurus).
Also up for bid: two tickets for the 2006 British Open Golf Championship (value: $1,800); dinner for 10 at the Schwarz's, with film stars Robert Wagner and Jill St. John, plus blue-topaz-diamond earrings (value: $8,500), and a guitar signed by rocker Elvis Costello (value: priceless).
You may have to battle Mercer Island billionaire and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen for that one.
'Home with a Heart' effort shows valley's good soul
In these uncertain times when negative stories seem to dominate our television and wonderful human interest stories about good people doing good things seem to fall into the cracks - right after the weather and sports - it has been incredibly rewarding to witness so many of our valley businesses stepping up for a common good.
We have been very active in this valley for many, many years. Our company, Family Development, has experienced unprecedented success - building homes for families all over the valley. We have been so grateful to our homeowners. Their expression of confidence in our mission has been humbling.
When we named our new home building company, we knew that the name we chose carried with it a big responsibility. We needed to build homes that families could be proud to call their own. We needed to select locations that would maintain their quality for years to come, and we needed to provide caring customer service. In other words, we were going to build homes as if we were building them for our own families. We believed that the word "family" would guide us, and if we were fortunate enough to be successful, we would find ways to give something back to the community.
About a year ago, the idea came to us; "Home with a Heart" was born and now the time has finally arrived. On Friday, May 20 to Monday, May 23, with a great deal of help from volunteers, we will be orchestrating a four-day, 'round-the-clock home construction, from foundation to completion at our Shadow Ranch community in north Indio.
On Monday, when the home is complete, we will donate all of the proceeds from the sale of the home, a minimum of $300,000, to two local nonprofit organizations. We selected the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center and the Family YMCA of the Desert because they do so much for families and children in the valley.
We hoped that we could get people and businesses to help us with the home construction, but we never expected the outpouring of participation that we have received.
The Coachella Valley definitely has a heart for helping others. It started with our subcontractors readily volunteering their time and services and now we have an extended family of over 40 businesses throughout the valley taking part. Local restaurants are donating food, local entertainers are donating their talent; we even have local physical therapists coming out to keep the workers loose and in shape.
In addition, many of our country's finest celebrities have joined the cause. Kirk Douglas, Gerald Ford, Yogi Berra, Jerry Vale, Robert Wagner, Tony Danza and so many more have graciously donated personalized artwork.
As each day passes, bringing us closer and closer to the event, more an more people are coming aboard.
It is our hope that valley residents will come out during the event to witness what can happen when a lot of people come together for a common good. We hope the event proves to be exciting and inspirational.
We want to offer a "sincere thank you" to the community for all their support in the last couple of years and a special thanks to those who will be participating during the four-day construction event. Your enthusiasm for "Home with a Heart" says something great about what can be accomplished when a community works together to make a difference.
We have been very active in this valley for many, many years. Our company, Family Development, has experienced unprecedented success - building homes for families all over the valley. We have been so grateful to our homeowners. Their expression of confidence in our mission has been humbling.
When we named our new home building company, we knew that the name we chose carried with it a big responsibility. We needed to build homes that families could be proud to call their own. We needed to select locations that would maintain their quality for years to come, and we needed to provide caring customer service. In other words, we were going to build homes as if we were building them for our own families. We believed that the word "family" would guide us, and if we were fortunate enough to be successful, we would find ways to give something back to the community.
About a year ago, the idea came to us; "Home with a Heart" was born and now the time has finally arrived. On Friday, May 20 to Monday, May 23, with a great deal of help from volunteers, we will be orchestrating a four-day, 'round-the-clock home construction, from foundation to completion at our Shadow Ranch community in north Indio.
On Monday, when the home is complete, we will donate all of the proceeds from the sale of the home, a minimum of $300,000, to two local nonprofit organizations. We selected the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center and the Family YMCA of the Desert because they do so much for families and children in the valley.
We hoped that we could get people and businesses to help us with the home construction, but we never expected the outpouring of participation that we have received.
The Coachella Valley definitely has a heart for helping others. It started with our subcontractors readily volunteering their time and services and now we have an extended family of over 40 businesses throughout the valley taking part. Local restaurants are donating food, local entertainers are donating their talent; we even have local physical therapists coming out to keep the workers loose and in shape.
In addition, many of our country's finest celebrities have joined the cause. Kirk Douglas, Gerald Ford, Yogi Berra, Jerry Vale, Robert Wagner, Tony Danza and so many more have graciously donated personalized artwork.
As each day passes, bringing us closer and closer to the event, more an more people are coming aboard.
It is our hope that valley residents will come out during the event to witness what can happen when a lot of people come together for a common good. We hope the event proves to be exciting and inspirational.
We want to offer a "sincere thank you" to the community for all their support in the last couple of years and a special thanks to those who will be participating during the four-day construction event. Your enthusiasm for "Home with a Heart" says something great about what can be accomplished when a community works together to make a difference.
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Couple revives art of letter writing
In the age of faxes, e-mail and on-the-run cellular connections, playwright A.R. Gurney's "Love Letters," starring Robert Wagner and Jill St. John, remains a welcome homage to the intimate, intensely personal and admittedly old-fashioned art of letter writing.
"Love Letters" will be at the Rialto Square Theatre for a dinner/theater engagement at 6 p.m. May 7. Very limited seating is available. Tickets also will be sold to the show only. The show begins at 8 p.m.
Tickets are $65.50 for the dinner and show or $32.50 to $42.50 for the show only. Tickets can be purchased at the Rialto box office, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet; by calling (815) 726-6600 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or between 9 a.m. and noon Saturdays; or online at www.rialtosquare.com. On performance days, the box office remains open until the completion of intermission. Tickets also may be purchased through all Ticketmaster outlets by calling (312) 902-1500 or online at www.ticketmaster.com
Gurney's charmingly crafted acting exercise, which takes the form of reading, traces the lifelong correspondence between two friends and sometime lovers. And it suggests that the sound of a pen scratching on paper and the secretive folding of a letter into its envelope may foster relationships that are deeper and more meaningful than those dependent on modern technology.
Since its premiere in 1988, "Love Letters" has become a favorite vehicle for show-biz couples. The latest pairing is between Robert Wagner and his wife, Jill St. John, veterans of film and television.
One of the most popular and successful stars in the entertainment industry, Robert Wagner has had a career highlighted by three hit television series, "Hart to Hart," "Switch" and "It Takes a Thief," and a portfolio of movies for film and television. In summer of 1999, Wagner recreated his role of "Number Two," the villainous henchman to Dr. Evil, a cryogenically revived special agent who squares off against the title character in the sequel to "Austin Powers," starring Mike Myers.
He also was in the Sony release, "Crazy in Alabama," directed by Antonio Banderas and starring Melanie Griffith; and TBS's first original movie, "Fatal Error," starring Antonio Sabato Jr. and Janine Turner. In 1998, Wagner was in "Wild Things," starring Matt Dillon and Kevin Bacon, for Mandalay Films, playing attorney Tom Baxter. In 1997, he co-starred in New Line's box-office hit "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery," starring Mike Myers and Elizabeth Hurley.
Jill St. John is known throughout the world as a film and television star. At the age of 10, Jill appeared in the first TV movie ever made, the Charles Dickens' classic, "A Christmas Carol." She made pictures with Frank Sinatra, such as "Tony Rome" and Neil Simon's "Come Blow Your Horn," and acted with Dean Martin in "Who's Been Sleeping In My Bed." She also played Tiffany Case in the James Bond film "Diamonds Are Forever" with Sean Connery.
She was the host of "Good Morning America's" cooking segment for three years. She is now writing a series of three new cookbooks.
"Love Letters" will be at the Rialto Square Theatre for a dinner/theater engagement at 6 p.m. May 7. Very limited seating is available. Tickets also will be sold to the show only. The show begins at 8 p.m.
Tickets are $65.50 for the dinner and show or $32.50 to $42.50 for the show only. Tickets can be purchased at the Rialto box office, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet; by calling (815) 726-6600 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or between 9 a.m. and noon Saturdays; or online at www.rialtosquare.com. On performance days, the box office remains open until the completion of intermission. Tickets also may be purchased through all Ticketmaster outlets by calling (312) 902-1500 or online at www.ticketmaster.com
Gurney's charmingly crafted acting exercise, which takes the form of reading, traces the lifelong correspondence between two friends and sometime lovers. And it suggests that the sound of a pen scratching on paper and the secretive folding of a letter into its envelope may foster relationships that are deeper and more meaningful than those dependent on modern technology.
Since its premiere in 1988, "Love Letters" has become a favorite vehicle for show-biz couples. The latest pairing is between Robert Wagner and his wife, Jill St. John, veterans of film and television.
One of the most popular and successful stars in the entertainment industry, Robert Wagner has had a career highlighted by three hit television series, "Hart to Hart," "Switch" and "It Takes a Thief," and a portfolio of movies for film and television. In summer of 1999, Wagner recreated his role of "Number Two," the villainous henchman to Dr. Evil, a cryogenically revived special agent who squares off against the title character in the sequel to "Austin Powers," starring Mike Myers.
He also was in the Sony release, "Crazy in Alabama," directed by Antonio Banderas and starring Melanie Griffith; and TBS's first original movie, "Fatal Error," starring Antonio Sabato Jr. and Janine Turner. In 1998, Wagner was in "Wild Things," starring Matt Dillon and Kevin Bacon, for Mandalay Films, playing attorney Tom Baxter. In 1997, he co-starred in New Line's box-office hit "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery," starring Mike Myers and Elizabeth Hurley.
Jill St. John is known throughout the world as a film and television star. At the age of 10, Jill appeared in the first TV movie ever made, the Charles Dickens' classic, "A Christmas Carol." She made pictures with Frank Sinatra, such as "Tony Rome" and Neil Simon's "Come Blow Your Horn," and acted with Dean Martin in "Who's Been Sleeping In My Bed." She also played Tiffany Case in the James Bond film "Diamonds Are Forever" with Sean Connery.
She was the host of "Good Morning America's" cooking segment for three years. She is now writing a series of three new cookbooks.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Director to attend opening
South Texas man will appear at 'El Padrino' showing
Damian Chapa, director and star of the new film "El Padrino," hopes his film, which is layered with gunfights, explosions and car chases, captures the reality of gangster life.
Chapa, who is from South Texas, will sign autographs at 7 p.m. tonight at Cinemark 12, 7806 Navarro St., in Victoria. The new gangster/action film opens here on Friday.
The R-rated movie, also starring Academy-Award winner Faye Dunaway, Jennifer Tilly and Robert Wagner, had its debut in El Paso on April 6. The independent film also features Gary Busey and Brad Dourif and showcases Latin actors Sal Lopez, Emilio Rivera, Ileanna Simancas and Ismael "East" Carlo.
The film, set in Los Angeles and Mexico, chronicles the life of a fictional gangster, Kilo Vasquez, played by Chapa. A young Kilo watches his father, a small-time gangster, and as he emulates him, becomes a powerful underworld figure. After Vasquez marries and has children, he questions his choices and finds that getting out of the business is more difficult than he had imagined.
"There are people like this who exist in my community and I express it because I've known people like this growing up," said Chapa of his gangster and drug-dealing characters. "I express it especially to young people so they understand what it's really like to be a gangster."
Chapa said he recognizes that being in gangs and dealing drugs can be profitable and appealing to youngsters at first, but that they may find unexpected and unpleasant consequences of their choices.
Chapa describes his film as a crossover movie that would appeal to those who liked "Scarface" or "Traffic."
Though he was born in Ohio, the 42-year-old Chapa moved to Robstown when he was young.
"I really love it down here," Chapa said. "It's where my whole family is from. I'm very proud of being part of the Tejano group."
Chapa dropped out of high school to do theatre in New York when he was about 20. Later, he moved to Los Angeles and film roles.
For one of his first parts, he captured the lead in Taylor Hackford's "Bound By Honor." The 1993 movie also featured Benjamin Bratt and Billy Bob Thornton. The film, also known as "Blood In Blood Out," became a cult classic.
Chapa also acted in movies such as "Under Siege," "Street Fighter," and "Money Talks." About four years ago, Chapa launched his own production company. "El Padrino" will be his first theatrical release as a director.
Chapa said it was difficult doing triple duty as actor, director and writer, but that it allowed him to better capture his vision.
"I think this is a violent film for intelligent people," Chapa said. "This is done to show the realistic life of a gangster. Sooner or later, the only place for gangsters is the pen or the morgue."
Damian Chapa, director and star of the new film "El Padrino," hopes his film, which is layered with gunfights, explosions and car chases, captures the reality of gangster life.
Chapa, who is from South Texas, will sign autographs at 7 p.m. tonight at Cinemark 12, 7806 Navarro St., in Victoria. The new gangster/action film opens here on Friday.
The R-rated movie, also starring Academy-Award winner Faye Dunaway, Jennifer Tilly and Robert Wagner, had its debut in El Paso on April 6. The independent film also features Gary Busey and Brad Dourif and showcases Latin actors Sal Lopez, Emilio Rivera, Ileanna Simancas and Ismael "East" Carlo.
The film, set in Los Angeles and Mexico, chronicles the life of a fictional gangster, Kilo Vasquez, played by Chapa. A young Kilo watches his father, a small-time gangster, and as he emulates him, becomes a powerful underworld figure. After Vasquez marries and has children, he questions his choices and finds that getting out of the business is more difficult than he had imagined.
"There are people like this who exist in my community and I express it because I've known people like this growing up," said Chapa of his gangster and drug-dealing characters. "I express it especially to young people so they understand what it's really like to be a gangster."
Chapa said he recognizes that being in gangs and dealing drugs can be profitable and appealing to youngsters at first, but that they may find unexpected and unpleasant consequences of their choices.
Chapa describes his film as a crossover movie that would appeal to those who liked "Scarface" or "Traffic."
Though he was born in Ohio, the 42-year-old Chapa moved to Robstown when he was young.
"I really love it down here," Chapa said. "It's where my whole family is from. I'm very proud of being part of the Tejano group."
Chapa dropped out of high school to do theatre in New York when he was about 20. Later, he moved to Los Angeles and film roles.
For one of his first parts, he captured the lead in Taylor Hackford's "Bound By Honor." The 1993 movie also featured Benjamin Bratt and Billy Bob Thornton. The film, also known as "Blood In Blood Out," became a cult classic.
Chapa also acted in movies such as "Under Siege," "Street Fighter," and "Money Talks." About four years ago, Chapa launched his own production company. "El Padrino" will be his first theatrical release as a director.
Chapa said it was difficult doing triple duty as actor, director and writer, but that it allowed him to better capture his vision.
"I think this is a violent film for intelligent people," Chapa said. "This is done to show the realistic life of a gangster. Sooner or later, the only place for gangsters is the pen or the morgue."
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Thousands Participate in the 24th Annual Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon
SANTA MONICA, Calif. -- The 24th Annual Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon, hosted by Robert Wagner and sponsored by Lexus, was held on Sunday, April 17, 2005 at Griffith Park.
One of the largest five-person relay races in the United States, the relay marathon is comprised of numerous divisions, according to age, gender and corporate/industry affiliation. Race teams are comprised of five people, with each individual running 5.2 miles before passing the baton. There are also special categories for the very young -- like the Diaper Dash and the Children's Race and the second annual media invitational relay challenge.
Winners of the Relay Marathon were:
1st Place: Nike Team Run LA with a time of 2:15:57
2nd Place: Run With Us #1 with a time of 2:20:24
3rd Place: Spiros III Mexico with a time of 2:23:27
Winners of 2nd Annual Media Invitational 5 mile Relay
Challenge were:
Electronic Media Division
1st Place: KCAL-9/KCBS-2 with a time of 37:35
2nd Place: KNBC News with a time of 38:59
3rd Place: KEARTH 101 Radio with a time of 39:48
Print Media Division
1st Place: LA Sport & Fitness #1 with a time of 31:01
2nd Place: LA Sport & Fitness #2 with a time of 35:13
3rd Place: SurfSantaMonica.com with a time of 38:44
All proceeds benefit programs and services at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica. Since the first race in 1982, the Relay Marathon has raised $8.5 million.
One of the largest five-person relay races in the United States, the relay marathon is comprised of numerous divisions, according to age, gender and corporate/industry affiliation. Race teams are comprised of five people, with each individual running 5.2 miles before passing the baton. There are also special categories for the very young -- like the Diaper Dash and the Children's Race and the second annual media invitational relay challenge.
Winners of the Relay Marathon were:
1st Place: Nike Team Run LA with a time of 2:15:57
2nd Place: Run With Us #1 with a time of 2:20:24
3rd Place: Spiros III Mexico with a time of 2:23:27
Winners of 2nd Annual Media Invitational 5 mile Relay
Challenge were:
Electronic Media Division
1st Place: KCAL-9/KCBS-2 with a time of 37:35
2nd Place: KNBC News with a time of 38:59
3rd Place: KEARTH 101 Radio with a time of 39:48
Print Media Division
1st Place: LA Sport & Fitness #1 with a time of 31:01
2nd Place: LA Sport & Fitness #2 with a time of 35:13
3rd Place: SurfSantaMonica.com with a time of 38:44
All proceeds benefit programs and services at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica. Since the first race in 1982, the Relay Marathon has raised $8.5 million.
Monday, April 11, 2005
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!
Robert Wagner to Host 24th Annual Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon at Griffith Park -- April 17
WHAT: Join host Robert Wagner, community leaders, runners and
spectators of all ages in celebrating the 24th Annual
Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon at Griffith
Park.
WHEN: Sunday, April 17, 2005
Media Check-in: 7:00 a.m. - 7:30 a.m.
Relay Marathon: 8:00 a.m.
Media Invitational Relay Challenge: 10:30 a.m.
All media credentials will be available at the media tent
adjacent to the VIP/Sponsor compound on Sunday, April 17.
Please call Julie Watt at 310-656-4668 to obtain media
parking passes and event maps.
WHERE: Griffith Park
WHO: -- Marathon host Robert Wagner
-- Actors Faith Ford and Ted McGinley, stars of ABC
television's "Hope and Faith"
-- More than 10,000 participants including runners,
members of the media participating in the media
invitational relay challenge and spectators.
(Complete list of media participants follows)
WHY: All proceeds from the Marathon will benefit programs and
services at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica.
Since the first race in 1982, $8.5 million has been
raised.
DETAILS: One of the largest five-person relay marathons in the
United States, the Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay
Marathon is comprised of over 20 divisions, according to
age, gender and corporate/industry affiliation. Each
individual runs 5.2 miles before passing on the baton for
a total of 26 miles. The Relay Marathon has categories
for everyone including the Diaper Dash and the Kids
Races, as well as the second annual media invitational
relay challenge.
Teams Entered in the Media Invitational Relay Challenge
-- KCAL/KCBS TV
-- FOX NEWS
-- KEARTH 101 RADIO
-- ACCESS HOLLYWOOD
-- KNBC TV
-- KVEA TV (TELEMUNDO)
-- LA SPORT AND FITNESS MAGAZINE
-- LOS ANGELES MAGAZINE
-- SURFSANTAMONICA.COM
-- THE MALIBU TIMES
-- LA CITY TV
Contacts
BBPR, Inc.
Julie Watt, 310-656-4668
WHAT: Join host Robert Wagner, community leaders, runners and
spectators of all ages in celebrating the 24th Annual
Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon at Griffith
Park.
WHEN: Sunday, April 17, 2005
Media Check-in: 7:00 a.m. - 7:30 a.m.
Relay Marathon: 8:00 a.m.
Media Invitational Relay Challenge: 10:30 a.m.
All media credentials will be available at the media tent
adjacent to the VIP/Sponsor compound on Sunday, April 17.
Please call Julie Watt at 310-656-4668 to obtain media
parking passes and event maps.
WHERE: Griffith Park
WHO: -- Marathon host Robert Wagner
-- Actors Faith Ford and Ted McGinley, stars of ABC
television's "Hope and Faith"
-- More than 10,000 participants including runners,
members of the media participating in the media
invitational relay challenge and spectators.
(Complete list of media participants follows)
WHY: All proceeds from the Marathon will benefit programs and
services at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica.
Since the first race in 1982, $8.5 million has been
raised.
DETAILS: One of the largest five-person relay marathons in the
United States, the Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay
Marathon is comprised of over 20 divisions, according to
age, gender and corporate/industry affiliation. Each
individual runs 5.2 miles before passing on the baton for
a total of 26 miles. The Relay Marathon has categories
for everyone including the Diaper Dash and the Kids
Races, as well as the second annual media invitational
relay challenge.
Teams Entered in the Media Invitational Relay Challenge
-- KCAL/KCBS TV
-- FOX NEWS
-- KEARTH 101 RADIO
-- ACCESS HOLLYWOOD
-- KNBC TV
-- KVEA TV (TELEMUNDO)
-- LA SPORT AND FITNESS MAGAZINE
-- LOS ANGELES MAGAZINE
-- SURFSANTAMONICA.COM
-- THE MALIBU TIMES
-- LA CITY TV
Contacts
BBPR, Inc.
Julie Watt, 310-656-4668
Saturday, April 02, 2005
Celebrating Robert Wagner's Birthday
Robert Wagner celebrated his birthday in style at the Peninsula Hotel with his three darling daughters, Natasha, Courtney and Katie — and a surprise birthday cake presented by the still ravishing Charlie’s Angel, Jaclyn Smith. Unfortunately his wife, Jill St. John, was home recuperating from a terrible skiing accident that occurred in Aspen.
They were all at a cocktail reception to announce the Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon which will be held April 17 at Griffith Park. This is one of the largest marathons in the U.S., and all proceeds from the marathon benefit programs and services at St. John’s Medical Center in Santa Monica. Wagner has been hosting these races for 22 years, and spoke about carrying on the late Jimmy Stewart’s legacy.
Among the notables at the reception were Jimmy and Annie Murphy, and since it was the day before St. Patrick’s Day, most of the guests were attired in green. Since we spent the last 20 years celebrating at Jimmy’s famous eatery in Century City, we regretted the closing, but the talk on the street is that the Murphys will be associated with the Peninsula in some way. Can’t wait for these superb restaurateurs to be back in business again.
Michael Nathanson, president of MGM Pictures received the Sheba Humanitarian Award at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Nathanson, known for his strong business acumen and keen eye for talent, went from the mail room to the board room, and among the recent successes under his direction are Die Another Day, Walking Tall, and the Barbershop films. In that respect, Cedric The Entertainer (star of Barbershop 2) was on hand to present the award…and admitted he owes much of his success to his "boss.”
Others in the stellar line up included The Pointer Sisters, Jon Lovitz, Paul Rodriguez and Kathy Griffin, who presented an award to Jamie Masada, owner of the Laugh Factory. No folks, Michael Jackson was not on hand to congratulate Masada, who introduced him to his current accuser.
The money raised at the gala will fund a number of projects at Sheba Medical Center, the largest and most comprehensive healing complex in Israel and the Middle East. Bravo to all concerned for making this an evening of hope and compassion.
They were all at a cocktail reception to announce the Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon which will be held April 17 at Griffith Park. This is one of the largest marathons in the U.S., and all proceeds from the marathon benefit programs and services at St. John’s Medical Center in Santa Monica. Wagner has been hosting these races for 22 years, and spoke about carrying on the late Jimmy Stewart’s legacy.
Among the notables at the reception were Jimmy and Annie Murphy, and since it was the day before St. Patrick’s Day, most of the guests were attired in green. Since we spent the last 20 years celebrating at Jimmy’s famous eatery in Century City, we regretted the closing, but the talk on the street is that the Murphys will be associated with the Peninsula in some way. Can’t wait for these superb restaurateurs to be back in business again.
Michael Nathanson, president of MGM Pictures received the Sheba Humanitarian Award at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Nathanson, known for his strong business acumen and keen eye for talent, went from the mail room to the board room, and among the recent successes under his direction are Die Another Day, Walking Tall, and the Barbershop films. In that respect, Cedric The Entertainer (star of Barbershop 2) was on hand to present the award…and admitted he owes much of his success to his "boss.”
Others in the stellar line up included The Pointer Sisters, Jon Lovitz, Paul Rodriguez and Kathy Griffin, who presented an award to Jamie Masada, owner of the Laugh Factory. No folks, Michael Jackson was not on hand to congratulate Masada, who introduced him to his current accuser.
The money raised at the gala will fund a number of projects at Sheba Medical Center, the largest and most comprehensive healing complex in Israel and the Middle East. Bravo to all concerned for making this an evening of hope and compassion.
Sunday, March 13, 2005
The Duke's horse keeps special bond
Dollor's ears twitch and then get alert when he hears that well-known voice. The horse looks around searching for the man behind that voice. He is looking for an old friend.
The 17-year-old chestnut gelding carried that man with that well-known voice on his back for many years. They were movie stars together.
Dollor, a long-legged quarter horse, made his movie debut in one of John Wayne's finest scenes in one of the Duke's best ever movies, "True Grit."
Most John Wayne fans remember that scene at the very end. Rooster Cogburn's other horse, Bo, had been killed when the old, fat, one-eyed marshal charged across the valley at four bad guys. Rooster got them, but they got Bo.
In the final scene, Rooster has found a new horse. Kim Darby's character comments about the new horse. The marshal says that new horse can jump a four-rail fence.
And then with a sweep of his hat, John Wayne jumps his horse across the fence and the film ends with the horse and rider still in the air.
That was Dollor carrying the Duke, said Debra Keffeler of Midlothian, Texas. She's now the proud owner of Dollor.
She said John Wayne first rode the horse in that move when Dollor was just a 2-year-old. The horse then was owned by a California movie production company that furnished horses for John Wayne movies.
"The Duke had an exclusive contract with them that no one could ride Dollor but him," she said. "I think he liked the horse because their temperaments were a lot alike."
"True Grit" was made in 1969. John Wayne made nine more Western movies after that, including "Chisum," "Big Jake," "The Cowboys," "The Train Robbers" and "Rooster Cogburn."
Dollor was in most of those films. He was mentioned specifically by name several times in the Duke's last movie, "The Shootist."
Debra said the Duke had "The Shootist" script rewritten so he could use Dollor's name. That's how much he thought of the horse.
She bought Dollor — "for a whole bunch of money" — about a year ago from an Iowa man. Dollor lives in a $65,000 barn with her nine other horses.
He's in semi-retirement, content to munch on alfalfa hay and oats. But he still likes to go, she said. Dollor was used to traveling to all the Duke's movie locations, she said.
But what he likes best of all is listening to the sounds in one of his old movies. Debra plays the old movies for him.
"He gets all excited when he hears the shooting and that voice," she said. "Then the ears get alert, and he's looking for John Wayne."
Debra manages a Western clothing store in Ducanville, not far from Dallas. Dollor often makes personal appearances at the store. He also appears at banquets and openings of other stores.
"People cry when they see Dollor," she said. "They just want to touch him. It makes them feel good to see John Wayne's horse. John Wayne was an idol to lots of us as well as a legend.
"He was a good man. People want to keep his memory alive. That's why they let out their feelings when they see Dollor."
Debra said only two other stars have ridden Dollor since the Duke's death. Robert Wagner rode the horse in a segment of the "Hart to Hart" television show, and John Forsythe rode him in "Dynasty."
She doesn't ride Dollor. Nor does she allow others to ride him.
Several times requests have been made to allow someone to ride Dollor in a parade.
"I'm not going to allow some flashy blonde to ride John Wayne's horse in a parade," she said. "That just wouldn't be right."
Ol' Dollor is going to live out his days at her place eating good hay and oats, occasionally appearing before the Duke's fans.
And for a treat, he'll get to see a John Wayne movie just as often as possible, she said.
This column, by John Whiteside, originally appeared on Jan. 16, 1985.
The 17-year-old chestnut gelding carried that man with that well-known voice on his back for many years. They were movie stars together.
Dollor, a long-legged quarter horse, made his movie debut in one of John Wayne's finest scenes in one of the Duke's best ever movies, "True Grit."
Most John Wayne fans remember that scene at the very end. Rooster Cogburn's other horse, Bo, had been killed when the old, fat, one-eyed marshal charged across the valley at four bad guys. Rooster got them, but they got Bo.
In the final scene, Rooster has found a new horse. Kim Darby's character comments about the new horse. The marshal says that new horse can jump a four-rail fence.
And then with a sweep of his hat, John Wayne jumps his horse across the fence and the film ends with the horse and rider still in the air.
That was Dollor carrying the Duke, said Debra Keffeler of Midlothian, Texas. She's now the proud owner of Dollor.
She said John Wayne first rode the horse in that move when Dollor was just a 2-year-old. The horse then was owned by a California movie production company that furnished horses for John Wayne movies.
"The Duke had an exclusive contract with them that no one could ride Dollor but him," she said. "I think he liked the horse because their temperaments were a lot alike."
"True Grit" was made in 1969. John Wayne made nine more Western movies after that, including "Chisum," "Big Jake," "The Cowboys," "The Train Robbers" and "Rooster Cogburn."
Dollor was in most of those films. He was mentioned specifically by name several times in the Duke's last movie, "The Shootist."
Debra said the Duke had "The Shootist" script rewritten so he could use Dollor's name. That's how much he thought of the horse.
She bought Dollor — "for a whole bunch of money" — about a year ago from an Iowa man. Dollor lives in a $65,000 barn with her nine other horses.
He's in semi-retirement, content to munch on alfalfa hay and oats. But he still likes to go, she said. Dollor was used to traveling to all the Duke's movie locations, she said.
But what he likes best of all is listening to the sounds in one of his old movies. Debra plays the old movies for him.
"He gets all excited when he hears the shooting and that voice," she said. "Then the ears get alert, and he's looking for John Wayne."
Debra manages a Western clothing store in Ducanville, not far from Dallas. Dollor often makes personal appearances at the store. He also appears at banquets and openings of other stores.
"People cry when they see Dollor," she said. "They just want to touch him. It makes them feel good to see John Wayne's horse. John Wayne was an idol to lots of us as well as a legend.
"He was a good man. People want to keep his memory alive. That's why they let out their feelings when they see Dollor."
Debra said only two other stars have ridden Dollor since the Duke's death. Robert Wagner rode the horse in a segment of the "Hart to Hart" television show, and John Forsythe rode him in "Dynasty."
She doesn't ride Dollor. Nor does she allow others to ride him.
Several times requests have been made to allow someone to ride Dollor in a parade.
"I'm not going to allow some flashy blonde to ride John Wayne's horse in a parade," she said. "That just wouldn't be right."
Ol' Dollor is going to live out his days at her place eating good hay and oats, occasionally appearing before the Duke's fans.
And for a treat, he'll get to see a John Wayne movie just as often as possible, she said.
This column, by John Whiteside, originally appeared on Jan. 16, 1985.
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Robert Wagner to Host 24th Annual Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon Sponsor Recognition Cocktail Reception
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!: Robert Wagner to Host 24th Annual Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon Sponsor Recognition Cocktail Reception at the Peninsula - Beverly Hills on March 16
WHAT: The 24th Annual Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay
Marathon Sponsor Recognition cocktail reception.
WHEN: Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Reception: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Program: 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: The Peninsula - Beverly Hills
9882 South Santa Monica Boulevard
Beverly Hills
WHO: Relay Marathon host Robert Wagner, sponsors and special
guests.
WHY: One of the largest, five-person relay marathons in the
United States, the Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay
Marathon is comprised of over 20 divisions, according to
age, gender and corporate/industry affiliation. Each
individual runs 5.2 miles before passing on the baton
for a total of 26.2 miles.
All proceeds from the Relay Marathon benefit programs
and services at Saint John's Health Center in Santa
Monica. Since the first race in 1982, more than $8.5
million has been raised.
The Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon will be
held on Sunday, April 17, at Griffith Park.
R.S.V.P.: Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon
310-829-8968
WHAT: The 24th Annual Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay
Marathon Sponsor Recognition cocktail reception.
WHEN: Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Reception: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Program: 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: The Peninsula - Beverly Hills
9882 South Santa Monica Boulevard
Beverly Hills
WHO: Relay Marathon host Robert Wagner, sponsors and special
guests.
WHY: One of the largest, five-person relay marathons in the
United States, the Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay
Marathon is comprised of over 20 divisions, according to
age, gender and corporate/industry affiliation. Each
individual runs 5.2 miles before passing on the baton
for a total of 26.2 miles.
All proceeds from the Relay Marathon benefit programs
and services at Saint John's Health Center in Santa
Monica. Since the first race in 1982, more than $8.5
million has been raised.
The Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon will be
held on Sunday, April 17, at Griffith Park.
R.S.V.P.: Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon
310-829-8968
The Fallen Ones
THE FALLEN ONES (Sci Fi) - The telefilm, another in Sci Fi's long line of Saturday originals, is set to air on May 7 at 9:00/8:00c. The network's web site describes the project as follows: "An archaeologist unearths the mummified remains of a giant humanoid. Soon, more evidence is uncovered that reveals the creature to be the offspring of a human woman and a fallen angel — the beginning of a lineage whose terror is about to be reborn into the modern world. Casper Van Dien (Starship Troopers) and Robert Wagner (Number Two in the Austin Powers movies) star in this supernatural mystery-thriller."
Monday, February 28, 2005
Hart to Hart on DVD
H2H is coming to DVD. Season One (with extras) should be put together for release more than likely in October (perhaps sooner depending on the assembly) with the remaining seasons to follow in intervals of about four months apart, so the entire series should be completed and available by early 2007.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Update on JSJ
Jill St. John, recovering from her Aspen ski accident, where she'd averted her eyes briefly for a splitnannosecond, as someone whizzed down the slope beside her, is back home in Pacific Palisades. After an airlift to St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, Calif., she now has a new hip, steel rod up her back and pins holding her pelvis together. Jill's only comment to the surgeons? "Fix it so I can ski again."
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Romantic TV couples
Kevin Thompson's Valentine's Day picks for the TV couples that snagged our hearts.
Monday, February 14, 2005
Valentine's Day is a time for chocolate covered cherries, mushy cards, candlelight dinners and some really good lovin'.
For a TV critic, it's also a time to ponder which memorable TV couples have made our hearts skip a beat over the years.
No. 1: Mulder and Scully (The X-Files)
The truth is these two alien-chasing FBI agents exuded more sexual heat than most TV couples who fall into bed each week. Mulder and Scully did it with a knowing look. A quick embrace. A soft brush of the other's hair. A frantic cellphone call. The truth was out there: You knew their love was real. And you knew Mulder was the father of Scully's baby.
And the other 49 lovebirds . . .
2. Cliff and Clair Huxtable (The Cosby Show)
They slow danced with each other. They listened to John Coltrane together. They lovingly showed affection in front of their kids. Simply put, they had the kind of rock solid marriage everyone wants.
3. Lucy and Ricky Ricardo (I Love Lucy)
If they weren't on this list, I'd have some 'splainin' to do.
4. Rick and Lily (Once and Again)
They showed that divorced parents over 40 could actually act like lustful teens.
5. Bobby and Pam Ewing (Dallas)
For being a modern-day version of Romeo and Juliet. Aw, forget that. Remember, Bobby's six-pack abs? Pam's smokin' bod? That's what I'm talkin' 'bout!
6. David and Maddie (Moonlighting)
They fought. They solved crimes. They flirted. They fought. They flirted some more.
7. Ralph and Alice Kramden (The Honeymooners)
For all his "bang, zoom, to the moon" theatrics, deep down blustery Ralph knew his stand-by-your-man Alice was "the greatest." So did we.
8. Diane and Bobby (NYPD Blue)
Ever see them getting it on in a steamy shower? If so, you'd understand.
9. Buffy and Angel (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
He was a brooding vampire. She was a sassy vampire killer. Which meant Buffy and Angel didn't go on many dreamy-eyed dates. But when they were together, their undying passion could raise the dead.
10. Barney and Betty Rubble (The Flintstones)
Because Barney can still make Betty giggle after all these years.
11. Sam and Diane (Cheers)
Their delightful verbal fencing, not all those barflies, made Cheers an instant TV classic.
12. Luke and Laura (General Hospital)
A couple who can survive sexual assaults, kidnappings and living life on the lam before getting hitched. That's love!
13. Doug and Carol (ER)
George Clooney. Juliana Marguilies. What else is there to say?
14. Ross and Rachel (Friends)
Because they were destined to be together. It just took forever.
15. Kevin and Winnie (The Wonder Years)
Ah, young love. So sweet. So innocent. Remember that first kiss in the very first show? 16. Blake and Krystle Carrington (Dynasty)
Sure, bling-blinging Blake sometimes treated his trophy wife like another pricey possession. But he loved Krystle and she loved him right back. Alexis who?
17. Rob and Laura Petrie (The Dick Van Dyke Show)
The way Laura fondly cried, "Ohhh, Robbbbb" oozed a deep-rooted passion that a '60s sitcom couldn't really explore. Rob and Laura slept in separate beds, for crying out loud!
18. Ward and June Cleaver (Leave It To Beaver)
There's something hopelessly romantic about two parents united in their parental duties. Who said every TV couple had to be all sexy?
19. Mike and Gloria Stivic (All in the Family)
They made out an awful lot, didn't they?
20. George and Gracie (The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show)
One of the all-time great show business couples. Say goodnight, Gracie.
21. Sydney and Vaughn (Alias)
Make love in the morning. Thwart a terrorist plot in the afternoon. Make love again at night.
22. Batman and Robin (Batman)
Holy close quarters! Let's face it: The Dynamic Duo spent way too much time alone in the Batcave. You do the math.
23. Martin and Gina (Martin)
Despite their off-screen problems, Martin Lawrence and Tisha Campbell boasted a sizzling on-screen comedic chemistry.
24. Herman and Lily Munster (The Munsters)
How often do you see Frankenstein whispering sweet nothings to his vampire squeeze? Never.
25. Mr. and Mrs. C (Happy Days)
They would excitedly rush upstairs for some afternoon delight whenever the kids weren't home. As a thumbs-up Fonz would say, "Aaayyh!"
26. Isabel and Leo (Relativity)
Kimberly Williams and David Conrad kissed like they meant it in this little-watched series that skillfully dealt with the complexities of twentysomething romance and relationships.
27. Joyce and Frank (Hill Street Blues)
No couple looked sexier in bed than those secret lovers played by the ruggedly handsome Daniel J. Travanti (Pizza Man!) and the fetching Veronica Hamel.
28. Niles and Daphne (Frasier)
Because sometimes nice, nerdy, opera-loving guys do get the girl of their dreams.
29. Jonathan and Jennifer Hart (Hart to Hart)
It's Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers, people! Hellooooooo!
30. Gomez and Morticia Addams (The Addams Family)
They did a mean tango. Only really passionate people can do a mean tango.
31. Latka and Simka (Taxi)
The funny accents made 'em so darn cute! Tank you berry much!
32. Kermit and Miss Piggy (The Muppet Show)
We needed a carefree frog and a showboating pig on the list. Seriously.
33. Paul and Jamie Buchman (Mad About You)
For showing that marriage can be hard work — and worth the effort.
34. Ozzie and Harriet (The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet)
See Ward and June Cleaver.
35. Lois and Clark (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman)
Lois Lane and Clark Kent never looked that pretty in the D.C. Comics version. You can thank Teri Hatcher and Dean Cain for that.
36. Carrie and Big (Sex and the City)
OK, so Big was a first-class cad who often treated Carrie like crud on the bottom of his shoe. But they had chemistry. And all was forgotten when the big lug finally told Carrie, "You're the one."
37. Dharma and Greg (Dharma & Greg)
Dharma was a free-spirited yoga trainer. Greg was an uptight attorney. Yes, sometimes opposites do attract — and make you laugh.
38. Mike and Carol Brady (The Brady Bunch)
It's not easy looking chirpy and romantic when six kids are running your house. Go ahead, you try it!
39. Trista and Ryan (The Bachelorette)
Before America got sick of the attention-happy Trista, it actually loved this sweet, made-for-reality-TV couple. Well, they mostly loved the painfully shy, poetry-spouting Ryan.
40. James and Florida Evans (Good Times)
They lived with the buffoonish J.J. and still managed to keep their marriage strong. Big ups to James and Florida for that.
41. Turk and Carla (Scrubs)
They still have that newlywed glow.
42. Boston Rob and Amber (Survivor: All-Stars)
Any couple that can make living in the jungle with 16 smelly castaways look like a tropical vacation deserves a mention, don't ya think?
43. Ren and Stimpy (Ren & Stimpy)
If a scrawny, hot-headed Chihuahua (that's Ren) is gonna spend that much time with his kitty kat roomie (that's Stimpy), it must be love.
44. Remington and Laura (Remington Steele)
It's hard not to look all weak in the knees when you're standing next to the future 007.
45. Marge and Homer Simpson (The Simpsons)
Why not? At 16 years, The Simpsons is the longest-running sitcom on TV. You know Homer and Marge have had some serious lovin' in at least half of those years. D'oh!
46. Pebbles and Bamm Bamm (The Flintstones)
OK, they're babies, but they played so well together. Besides, when they grew up and got their own show, we kinda figured that Pebbles and Bamm Bamm were doing more than goo-goo and gaa-gaa-ing together.
47. The Donald and . . . The Donald (The Apprentice)
No one loves himself — or his companies, hotels, casinos and TV shows — more than The Trumpster.
48. Sandy and Kirsten Cohen (The O.C.)
Sandy singing to his wife on their 20th wedding anniversary probably melted every woman's heart in America.
49. Stewart and Sally McMillan (McMillan and Wife)
Rock Hudson was a grizzled police commissioner. Susan St. James was the wife who just wanted to help. Isn't support in a marriage a beautiful thing?
50. Flavor Flav and Brigitte Nielsen (Strange Love)
The cartoonish black rapper and the statuesque Danish actress are TV's oddest freak show couple since, well . . . give me a minute, I'll think of another one. Well, probably not.
Monday, February 14, 2005
Valentine's Day is a time for chocolate covered cherries, mushy cards, candlelight dinners and some really good lovin'.
For a TV critic, it's also a time to ponder which memorable TV couples have made our hearts skip a beat over the years.
No. 1: Mulder and Scully (The X-Files)
The truth is these two alien-chasing FBI agents exuded more sexual heat than most TV couples who fall into bed each week. Mulder and Scully did it with a knowing look. A quick embrace. A soft brush of the other's hair. A frantic cellphone call. The truth was out there: You knew their love was real. And you knew Mulder was the father of Scully's baby.
And the other 49 lovebirds . . .
2. Cliff and Clair Huxtable (The Cosby Show)
They slow danced with each other. They listened to John Coltrane together. They lovingly showed affection in front of their kids. Simply put, they had the kind of rock solid marriage everyone wants.
3. Lucy and Ricky Ricardo (I Love Lucy)
If they weren't on this list, I'd have some 'splainin' to do.
4. Rick and Lily (Once and Again)
They showed that divorced parents over 40 could actually act like lustful teens.
5. Bobby and Pam Ewing (Dallas)
For being a modern-day version of Romeo and Juliet. Aw, forget that. Remember, Bobby's six-pack abs? Pam's smokin' bod? That's what I'm talkin' 'bout!
6. David and Maddie (Moonlighting)
They fought. They solved crimes. They flirted. They fought. They flirted some more.
7. Ralph and Alice Kramden (The Honeymooners)
For all his "bang, zoom, to the moon" theatrics, deep down blustery Ralph knew his stand-by-your-man Alice was "the greatest." So did we.
8. Diane and Bobby (NYPD Blue)
Ever see them getting it on in a steamy shower? If so, you'd understand.
9. Buffy and Angel (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
He was a brooding vampire. She was a sassy vampire killer. Which meant Buffy and Angel didn't go on many dreamy-eyed dates. But when they were together, their undying passion could raise the dead.
10. Barney and Betty Rubble (The Flintstones)
Because Barney can still make Betty giggle after all these years.
11. Sam and Diane (Cheers)
Their delightful verbal fencing, not all those barflies, made Cheers an instant TV classic.
12. Luke and Laura (General Hospital)
A couple who can survive sexual assaults, kidnappings and living life on the lam before getting hitched. That's love!
13. Doug and Carol (ER)
George Clooney. Juliana Marguilies. What else is there to say?
14. Ross and Rachel (Friends)
Because they were destined to be together. It just took forever.
15. Kevin and Winnie (The Wonder Years)
Ah, young love. So sweet. So innocent. Remember that first kiss in the very first show? 16. Blake and Krystle Carrington (Dynasty)
Sure, bling-blinging Blake sometimes treated his trophy wife like another pricey possession. But he loved Krystle and she loved him right back. Alexis who?
17. Rob and Laura Petrie (The Dick Van Dyke Show)
The way Laura fondly cried, "Ohhh, Robbbbb" oozed a deep-rooted passion that a '60s sitcom couldn't really explore. Rob and Laura slept in separate beds, for crying out loud!
18. Ward and June Cleaver (Leave It To Beaver)
There's something hopelessly romantic about two parents united in their parental duties. Who said every TV couple had to be all sexy?
19. Mike and Gloria Stivic (All in the Family)
They made out an awful lot, didn't they?
20. George and Gracie (The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show)
One of the all-time great show business couples. Say goodnight, Gracie.
21. Sydney and Vaughn (Alias)
Make love in the morning. Thwart a terrorist plot in the afternoon. Make love again at night.
22. Batman and Robin (Batman)
Holy close quarters! Let's face it: The Dynamic Duo spent way too much time alone in the Batcave. You do the math.
23. Martin and Gina (Martin)
Despite their off-screen problems, Martin Lawrence and Tisha Campbell boasted a sizzling on-screen comedic chemistry.
24. Herman and Lily Munster (The Munsters)
How often do you see Frankenstein whispering sweet nothings to his vampire squeeze? Never.
25. Mr. and Mrs. C (Happy Days)
They would excitedly rush upstairs for some afternoon delight whenever the kids weren't home. As a thumbs-up Fonz would say, "Aaayyh!"
26. Isabel and Leo (Relativity)
Kimberly Williams and David Conrad kissed like they meant it in this little-watched series that skillfully dealt with the complexities of twentysomething romance and relationships.
27. Joyce and Frank (Hill Street Blues)
No couple looked sexier in bed than those secret lovers played by the ruggedly handsome Daniel J. Travanti (Pizza Man!) and the fetching Veronica Hamel.
28. Niles and Daphne (Frasier)
Because sometimes nice, nerdy, opera-loving guys do get the girl of their dreams.
29. Jonathan and Jennifer Hart (Hart to Hart)
It's Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers, people! Hellooooooo!
30. Gomez and Morticia Addams (The Addams Family)
They did a mean tango. Only really passionate people can do a mean tango.
31. Latka and Simka (Taxi)
The funny accents made 'em so darn cute! Tank you berry much!
32. Kermit and Miss Piggy (The Muppet Show)
We needed a carefree frog and a showboating pig on the list. Seriously.
33. Paul and Jamie Buchman (Mad About You)
For showing that marriage can be hard work — and worth the effort.
34. Ozzie and Harriet (The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet)
See Ward and June Cleaver.
35. Lois and Clark (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman)
Lois Lane and Clark Kent never looked that pretty in the D.C. Comics version. You can thank Teri Hatcher and Dean Cain for that.
36. Carrie and Big (Sex and the City)
OK, so Big was a first-class cad who often treated Carrie like crud on the bottom of his shoe. But they had chemistry. And all was forgotten when the big lug finally told Carrie, "You're the one."
37. Dharma and Greg (Dharma & Greg)
Dharma was a free-spirited yoga trainer. Greg was an uptight attorney. Yes, sometimes opposites do attract — and make you laugh.
38. Mike and Carol Brady (The Brady Bunch)
It's not easy looking chirpy and romantic when six kids are running your house. Go ahead, you try it!
39. Trista and Ryan (The Bachelorette)
Before America got sick of the attention-happy Trista, it actually loved this sweet, made-for-reality-TV couple. Well, they mostly loved the painfully shy, poetry-spouting Ryan.
40. James and Florida Evans (Good Times)
They lived with the buffoonish J.J. and still managed to keep their marriage strong. Big ups to James and Florida for that.
41. Turk and Carla (Scrubs)
They still have that newlywed glow.
42. Boston Rob and Amber (Survivor: All-Stars)
Any couple that can make living in the jungle with 16 smelly castaways look like a tropical vacation deserves a mention, don't ya think?
43. Ren and Stimpy (Ren & Stimpy)
If a scrawny, hot-headed Chihuahua (that's Ren) is gonna spend that much time with his kitty kat roomie (that's Stimpy), it must be love.
44. Remington and Laura (Remington Steele)
It's hard not to look all weak in the knees when you're standing next to the future 007.
45. Marge and Homer Simpson (The Simpsons)
Why not? At 16 years, The Simpsons is the longest-running sitcom on TV. You know Homer and Marge have had some serious lovin' in at least half of those years. D'oh!
46. Pebbles and Bamm Bamm (The Flintstones)
OK, they're babies, but they played so well together. Besides, when they grew up and got their own show, we kinda figured that Pebbles and Bamm Bamm were doing more than goo-goo and gaa-gaa-ing together.
47. The Donald and . . . The Donald (The Apprentice)
No one loves himself — or his companies, hotels, casinos and TV shows — more than The Trumpster.
48. Sandy and Kirsten Cohen (The O.C.)
Sandy singing to his wife on their 20th wedding anniversary probably melted every woman's heart in America.
49. Stewart and Sally McMillan (McMillan and Wife)
Rock Hudson was a grizzled police commissioner. Susan St. James was the wife who just wanted to help. Isn't support in a marriage a beautiful thing?
50. Flavor Flav and Brigitte Nielsen (Strange Love)
The cartoonish black rapper and the statuesque Danish actress are TV's oddest freak show couple since, well . . . give me a minute, I'll think of another one. Well, probably not.
Robert Wagner Becomes Spokesman for Senior Lending Network; Senior Lending Network To Embark on Nationwide Marketing Campaign
NEW YORK--Feb. 14, 2005--He's been called the nicest guy in Hollywood and today Senior Lending Network introduces Robert Wagner as its official spokesperson. "We are excited to report that the legendary actor, Robert Wagner, whose integrity and generous spirit make him an ideal role model and effective messenger for seniors on the benefits of reverse mortgages, has accepted the role as our spokesman," says David Peskin, president of Senior Lending Network.
Robert Wagner is one of the entertainment industry's most successful stars with an enduring career that includes three hit series and a long list of feature and television films. Perhaps best known for his early 80s hit TV series, Hart to Hart with co-star Stefanie Powers, Wagner continues to work as a Hollywood leading man and has toured the world performing A.R. Gurney's "Love Letters" with Powers. Charitable with his time and talent, Wagner also stages the play at benefit events with his wife, actress Jill St. John.
"I am honored to lend my name and my efforts to improving the lives of seniors. Financial stability is a right earned from years of hard work and every senior should be aware of their options," says Wagner.
Peskin explained that production for a national television commercial will begin immediately and he expects it to start airing in February. Additionally, Wagner will be featured in print ads, educational videos and on the Senior Lending Network website http://www.seniorlendingnetwork.com.
About the Senior Lending Network:
Founded in 2003, the Senior Lending Network, a program by Mortgage Warehouse, was created to inform, educate and assist seniors aged 62 and older about the powerful benefits of reverse mortgages. By supplying interested seniors with an educational video and access to a qualified Reverse Mortgage expert in their area, the Senior Lending Network has to date helped thousands of seniors obtain the means to living a better life. For more information go to http://www.seniorlendingnetwork.com.
Contact:
Bennett & Company, Orlando, Fla.
Laura Bennett, 407-478-4040
Robert Wagner is one of the entertainment industry's most successful stars with an enduring career that includes three hit series and a long list of feature and television films. Perhaps best known for his early 80s hit TV series, Hart to Hart with co-star Stefanie Powers, Wagner continues to work as a Hollywood leading man and has toured the world performing A.R. Gurney's "Love Letters" with Powers. Charitable with his time and talent, Wagner also stages the play at benefit events with his wife, actress Jill St. John.
"I am honored to lend my name and my efforts to improving the lives of seniors. Financial stability is a right earned from years of hard work and every senior should be aware of their options," says Wagner.
Peskin explained that production for a national television commercial will begin immediately and he expects it to start airing in February. Additionally, Wagner will be featured in print ads, educational videos and on the Senior Lending Network website http://www.seniorlendingnetwork.com.
About the Senior Lending Network:
Founded in 2003, the Senior Lending Network, a program by Mortgage Warehouse, was created to inform, educate and assist seniors aged 62 and older about the powerful benefits of reverse mortgages. By supplying interested seniors with an educational video and access to a qualified Reverse Mortgage expert in their area, the Senior Lending Network has to date helped thousands of seniors obtain the means to living a better life. For more information go to http://www.seniorlendingnetwork.com.
Contact:
Bennett & Company, Orlando, Fla.
Laura Bennett, 407-478-4040
Friday, February 11, 2005
Robert Wagner's Birthday
Mr. Wagner went to dinner last night with his daughters, their respective partners, his assistant, and one of his close friends.
When they returned from dinner, Natasha read to him the six-page fax of "Happy Birthday" wishes sent by a rep of his fans.
He was very touched and thanked everyone for their good wishes.
When they returned from dinner, Natasha read to him the six-page fax of "Happy Birthday" wishes sent by a rep of his fans.
He was very touched and thanked everyone for their good wishes.
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Jill St. John fractures hip in skiing accident
Former James Bond girl Jill St. John fractured her hip in a skiing accident.
St. John, 64, was hospitalized at Aspen Valley Hospital after the accident Saturday, then transferred Monday to an undisclosed hospital in Los Angeles, family spokesman Alan Nierob said Thursday.
The actress, who appeared in numerous movies including the 1971 classic, "Diamonds are Forever," underwent successful surgery on Tuesday.
St. John is married to actor Robert Wagner.
St. John, 64, was hospitalized at Aspen Valley Hospital after the accident Saturday, then transferred Monday to an undisclosed hospital in Los Angeles, family spokesman Alan Nierob said Thursday.
The actress, who appeared in numerous movies including the 1971 classic, "Diamonds are Forever," underwent successful surgery on Tuesday.
St. John is married to actor Robert Wagner.
JSJ's Surgery
The surgery went well. It lasted four hours. The surgeons were very pleased. She is in pain today though. It is not an easy thing to recover from, but she has a good attitude.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Army Archerd - February 9
Robert Wagner was with wife Jill St. John Wednesday afternoon as she was being moved from the hospital's Intensive Care Unit back to her room. She'd undergone extensive surgery Tuesday on the multiple fractures of her pelvis and right hip, the results of a skiing accident last weekend in Aspen. He said everyone (at the hospital) was wonderful to her. Wagner was to have been partied by Jill Friday at Jimmy's (he'll be 75) ...
Jill St. John injured on the slopes
Aspen Daily News
Former Hollywood star Jill St. John was sent to Aspen Valley Hospital over the weekend after sustaining injuries in a skiing accident.
A spokesman for the family said St. John was hurt while skiing in Aspen on Saturday, although he did not know the full extent of her injuries. Several
sources said St. John sustained a broken hip.
The hospital confirmed the actress was at the hospital Monday and was due to be moved to a different medical facility for further treatment.
"(St. John) is here, in good condition and is being transported to a different medical facility," said AVH spokesman Victoria Seyffert.
Due to Colorado's patient confidentiality laws, Seyffert would not comment further. St. John, 64, declined comment when reached at the hospital.
St. John and her husband Robert Wagner, who is also an actor, are long-time Aspen locals. St. John rose to fame as a wavy-haired starlet in the 60s. Her movie credits include playing Bond girl Tiffany Case alongside Sean Connery in 1971's "Diamonds are Forever."
Former Hollywood star Jill St. John was sent to Aspen Valley Hospital over the weekend after sustaining injuries in a skiing accident.
A spokesman for the family said St. John was hurt while skiing in Aspen on Saturday, although he did not know the full extent of her injuries. Several
sources said St. John sustained a broken hip.
The hospital confirmed the actress was at the hospital Monday and was due to be moved to a different medical facility for further treatment.
"(St. John) is here, in good condition and is being transported to a different medical facility," said AVH spokesman Victoria Seyffert.
Due to Colorado's patient confidentiality laws, Seyffert would not comment further. St. John, 64, declined comment when reached at the hospital.
St. John and her husband Robert Wagner, who is also an actor, are long-time Aspen locals. St. John rose to fame as a wavy-haired starlet in the 60s. Her movie credits include playing Bond girl Tiffany Case alongside Sean Connery in 1971's "Diamonds are Forever."
Jill St. John's Injuries
Jill St. John fell while skiing in Aspen. Her hip came out of the socket and smashed her pelvis in two places.
She had surgery yesterday and has a long recovery in front of her.
Robert Wagner's 75th birthday party is cancelled. (His birthday is Thursday).
She had surgery yesterday and has a long recovery in front of her.
Robert Wagner's 75th birthday party is cancelled. (His birthday is Thursday).
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
Jill St. John Involved in Accident
Jill St. John was medevacked from Aspen to L.A. yesterday after what's said to have been a serious ski accident. A rep for the 64-year-old "Hart to Hart" actress had no immediate word on her condition. Friends are hoping she'll be well enough to join her husband, Robert Wagner, at his 75th birthday party on Thursday.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
The WB's 'The Starlet' reality acting competition to premiere March 8
The WB has announced that The Starlet, a new Top Model-like reality series in which ten young aspiring actresses will compete to win a prize package that includes representation and a one-year talent deal with The WB, will premiere Tuesday, March 8 at 9PM ET/ET.
Similar to the network's scheduling of the just-concluded High School Reunion 3, The Starlet will air in the place of repeat broadcasts of The WB's One Tree Hill drama.
Evoking images of last summer's lowly rated Next Action Star NBC series, The WB states that The Starlet will put its aspiring actresses through an "intense Hollywood boot camp" featuring acting classes, live performances, screen tests and brutally honest critiques by three-person judging panel. Headed by Academy Award-winning actress Faye Dunaway (how the mighty have fallen), the panel will also include film actress Vivica A. Fox and famed casting director Joseph Middleton.
Like Action Star, Starlet will feature representation and an acting role as part of the prize package awarded to its winner -- in this case a one-year management contract with 3 Arts Entertainment and both an overall The WB talent deal and One Tree Hill guest starring role. Similar to NBC's scheduling of the made-for-TV feature film starring Action Star's winners, the One Tree Hill guest appearance will occur in the Hill episode airing the week following Starlet's April 12 finale.
Living together in a home once owned by Marilyn Monroe, the contestants will participate in screen tests filmed at renowned Hollywood locations including Los Angeles' old Orpheum Theater, Griffith Park's Bronson Caves, and the Sunset Strip's Comedy Store.
In addition to working with their acting coaches, the young women will also receive help from other guest stars already familiar to The WB viewers, including Jaime Pressly (Jack & Jill) and David Gallagher (7th Heaven).
The aspiring actresses will also get exposed to the perks of stardom, with each episode also featuring the women competing to win special rewards that include attending the film premiere of Ocean's 12 with Days of Our Lives hunk Matt Cedeño, a photo session with sought-after photographer Simon Gluckman, a power dinner with a Hollywood director, and a makeover with top stylists.
Katie Wagner, daughter of actor Robert Wagner, will serve as The Starlet's host.
First announced in June 2004 under the working title of Wannabes, The Starlet was originally presented as a Jamie Kennedy production, however reality producer Mike Fleiss also joined the production in the interim, resulting in both Kennedy and Fleiss now having executive producer credits.
The one-time producer of Fox's Who Wants to Marry A Multi-Millionaire? disaster who first rose to prominence as a result of the ratings success of his ABC The Bachelor series, Fleiss has produced numerous other reality series in recent years -- with mixed results.
Cashing in on his initial Bachelor success, Fleiss quickly signed deals to create two additional reality series for ABC -- Are You Hot? and The Will. While Are You Hot? made it to the airwaves in Spring 2003, the televised meat market (complete with laser pointers) is near universally considered to have represented the bottoming out of the currently resurgent network, with even ABC's chairman later acknowledging the series was "in bad taste." Unfortunately for Fleiss, The Will also didn't fare any better. ABC gave up on the series after leaving it in development for over a year, and although Fleiss managed to somehow convince CBS to pick up the project, they clearly didn't think much of it. The Will finally premiered more than two years after it was first announced -- but in the original programming wasteland known as Saturday nights, where CBS still was unhappy with its performance and promptly canceled the series following a single 90-minute premiere broadcast.
Fleiss also produced a ten-episode The Two-Timer reality comedy series that ABC had scheduled for broadcast in Summer 2004, however the network suddenly pulled the show from its summer schedule despite promoting the series during its May 2004 Bachelor finale. While ABC executives cited a desire to not rush the series' post-production work as the reason for canceling the show's June 23 debut only two weeks before its broadcast, the network also failed to follow through with its statement that Two-Timer would air later that summer -- nor has the series aired since. Fleiss also sold ABC a Joe Millionaire-like series called Rich Guy, Poor Guy in early 2003, but like Two-Timer, despite casting call notices aired during The Bachelor and a nationwide casting tour conducted in conjunction with The Bachelor, the series has never seen the light of day.
Fleiss has had better luck working with The WB, where despite producing a couple of flops (The WB's Superstar USA, Big Man On Campus), his High School Reunion series has performed well enough to have aired three editions.
However Fleiss' biggest non-Bachelor success has arguably come at cable's TBS network, where he executive produced the network's reality-comedy adaptation of Sherwood Schwartz's classic Gilligan's Island sitcom. Despite mixed reviews, The Real Gilligan's Island series delivered great ratings for the network and will return for a second edition later this year.
Similar to the network's scheduling of the just-concluded High School Reunion 3, The Starlet will air in the place of repeat broadcasts of The WB's One Tree Hill drama.
Evoking images of last summer's lowly rated Next Action Star NBC series, The WB states that The Starlet will put its aspiring actresses through an "intense Hollywood boot camp" featuring acting classes, live performances, screen tests and brutally honest critiques by three-person judging panel. Headed by Academy Award-winning actress Faye Dunaway (how the mighty have fallen), the panel will also include film actress Vivica A. Fox and famed casting director Joseph Middleton.
Like Action Star, Starlet will feature representation and an acting role as part of the prize package awarded to its winner -- in this case a one-year management contract with 3 Arts Entertainment and both an overall The WB talent deal and One Tree Hill guest starring role. Similar to NBC's scheduling of the made-for-TV feature film starring Action Star's winners, the One Tree Hill guest appearance will occur in the Hill episode airing the week following Starlet's April 12 finale.
Living together in a home once owned by Marilyn Monroe, the contestants will participate in screen tests filmed at renowned Hollywood locations including Los Angeles' old Orpheum Theater, Griffith Park's Bronson Caves, and the Sunset Strip's Comedy Store.
In addition to working with their acting coaches, the young women will also receive help from other guest stars already familiar to The WB viewers, including Jaime Pressly (Jack & Jill) and David Gallagher (7th Heaven).
The aspiring actresses will also get exposed to the perks of stardom, with each episode also featuring the women competing to win special rewards that include attending the film premiere of Ocean's 12 with Days of Our Lives hunk Matt Cedeño, a photo session with sought-after photographer Simon Gluckman, a power dinner with a Hollywood director, and a makeover with top stylists.
Katie Wagner, daughter of actor Robert Wagner, will serve as The Starlet's host.
First announced in June 2004 under the working title of Wannabes, The Starlet was originally presented as a Jamie Kennedy production, however reality producer Mike Fleiss also joined the production in the interim, resulting in both Kennedy and Fleiss now having executive producer credits.
The one-time producer of Fox's Who Wants to Marry A Multi-Millionaire? disaster who first rose to prominence as a result of the ratings success of his ABC The Bachelor series, Fleiss has produced numerous other reality series in recent years -- with mixed results.
Cashing in on his initial Bachelor success, Fleiss quickly signed deals to create two additional reality series for ABC -- Are You Hot? and The Will. While Are You Hot? made it to the airwaves in Spring 2003, the televised meat market (complete with laser pointers) is near universally considered to have represented the bottoming out of the currently resurgent network, with even ABC's chairman later acknowledging the series was "in bad taste." Unfortunately for Fleiss, The Will also didn't fare any better. ABC gave up on the series after leaving it in development for over a year, and although Fleiss managed to somehow convince CBS to pick up the project, they clearly didn't think much of it. The Will finally premiered more than two years after it was first announced -- but in the original programming wasteland known as Saturday nights, where CBS still was unhappy with its performance and promptly canceled the series following a single 90-minute premiere broadcast.
Fleiss also produced a ten-episode The Two-Timer reality comedy series that ABC had scheduled for broadcast in Summer 2004, however the network suddenly pulled the show from its summer schedule despite promoting the series during its May 2004 Bachelor finale. While ABC executives cited a desire to not rush the series' post-production work as the reason for canceling the show's June 23 debut only two weeks before its broadcast, the network also failed to follow through with its statement that Two-Timer would air later that summer -- nor has the series aired since. Fleiss also sold ABC a Joe Millionaire-like series called Rich Guy, Poor Guy in early 2003, but like Two-Timer, despite casting call notices aired during The Bachelor and a nationwide casting tour conducted in conjunction with The Bachelor, the series has never seen the light of day.
Fleiss has had better luck working with The WB, where despite producing a couple of flops (The WB's Superstar USA, Big Man On Campus), his High School Reunion series has performed well enough to have aired three editions.
However Fleiss' biggest non-Bachelor success has arguably come at cable's TBS network, where he executive produced the network's reality-comedy adaptation of Sherwood Schwartz's classic Gilligan's Island sitcom. Despite mixed reviews, The Real Gilligan's Island series delivered great ratings for the network and will return for a second edition later this year.
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
Bravo's Celebrity Poker Showdown
Robert Wagner is scheduled to appear as a player on February 22, 2005. He serves on the Board of Directors of The Silver Lining Foundation and is playing for them.
Monday, January 24, 2005
Saturday, January 15, 2005
Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon
Join host Robert Wagner at the 24th Annual Saint John's Jimmy Stewart Relay Marathon on Sunday, April 17, at Griffith Park. The Relay Marathon is comprised of over 20 divisions. Each individual runs 5.2 miles before passing on the baton for a total of 26.2 miles. There's something for everyone, including races for children. Spectators can cheer on their favorite TV or radio personalities as they compete in the popular Media Invitational Relay Challenge. There's also live entertainment and a health and fitness expo. Proceeds benefit Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica. For more information, call 310-829-8968 or visit www.stjohns.org.
Thursday, January 13, 2005
Maternity milestone
EAGLE COUNTY - Imagine a pregnant woman in labor having to go all the way to Denver to have her baby.
Not too long ago, that's exactly what most expectant parents in Eagle County had to do.
That's why Jan. 10, 1980 - 25 years ago Monday - is of particular importance to the Vail Valley Medical Center and health care in Eagle County. It was the first time a baby was born in Vail on purpose.
"Prior to that, babies that were born here were on stormy nights when they couldn't get down to Denver," said Dr. Kent Petrie.
Petrie was the physician who delivered the Vail Valley Medical Center's first baby - a boy named Cody Merle Kuehl. His birth to parents Barbara and Randy Kuehl of Edwards was such a big deal to the community then that hospital staff called in periodic updates to a local radio station deejay, who announced the mother's cervical dilation over the airwaves.
"This was before patient confidentiality laws," Petrie said.
Things have changed since then. Petrie, who moved here in late 1979, notes how much the local hospital has grown in size and advanced in technology. But that day in January, back when the hospital was a clinic and it had less than 20 beds, is a fond memory for veteran staff.
"This town made it up to be such a big deal," said Anne Robinson, a perinatal educator for the hospital.
A day of many firsts
Petrie started at the Vail Hospital, as it was called then, in August of 1979. It was his first medical practice after finishing his residency in St. Paul, Minn. He was immediately assigned to set up a maternity care center at the hospital.
"I was kind of excited about it," he said.
There was one birthing room, which was considered state-of-the-art at the time, Robinson said. Even in Denver, women still were giving birth in operating rooms.
The hospital still didn't have an obstetrician at this time (one came on year later), so Petrie was responsible for deliveries. The hospital was not equipped to deal with Caesarian sections or high-risk deliveries, either.
The Kuehl baby was not only the hospital's first planned delivery, it was the Kuehls' first baby. Cody Kuehl was first to become a third-generation Eagle Countian; his grandmother, Carol Favale, also lived in Edwards. It was Petrie's first official delivery, too.
The maternity care center opened Jan. 1, 1980. Nine days passed. Then Barbara Kuehl went into labor.
"The excitement spread through the hospital and the valley," Petrie said. "We were all a little nervous. It made me pretty nervous."
Lights, camera, action
Making things even more exciting - or nerve-wracking - was that the TV show "Hart to Hart" was filming an episode in the Vail hospital.
The film crews and the show's stars, Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers, even got caught up in the excitement. The stars signed autographs for the family once the baby was born, Robinson said.
The show's impact on the hospital was long lasting.
"The hospital didn't have an official sign on West Meadow Drive," Petrie said. "So the crews quickly made a nice sign. That sign stayed up for at least six months. We never took it down until the snow melted."
The main event
Cody Merle Kuehl was born at 2:40 p.m. on Jan. 10, 1980. His arrival made the front page of the now-defunct Vail Villager and was covered by the Vail Trail.
"It went very smoothly," Petrie is quoted as saying in the Vail Trail article.
There were 70 births in the hospital that year, Robinson said.
That number has grown considerably over the years.
"We had 70 births last month," Petrie said.
Business is booming at the hospital's ever-more-advanced maternity ward. Hospital official say there were 600 births in 2004.
But that day in 1980 had a significant impact on Petrie, who planned only to stay a year in Vail.
"I was under the impression that I would just see tourists with orthopedic injuries from skiing, or with sore throats," he said. "That was very quickly changed when experiences like caring for a family that really was a three-generation family in town.
"I think that experience early on was that Vail really was a wonderful place to live," he said.
Not too long ago, that's exactly what most expectant parents in Eagle County had to do.
That's why Jan. 10, 1980 - 25 years ago Monday - is of particular importance to the Vail Valley Medical Center and health care in Eagle County. It was the first time a baby was born in Vail on purpose.
"Prior to that, babies that were born here were on stormy nights when they couldn't get down to Denver," said Dr. Kent Petrie.
Petrie was the physician who delivered the Vail Valley Medical Center's first baby - a boy named Cody Merle Kuehl. His birth to parents Barbara and Randy Kuehl of Edwards was such a big deal to the community then that hospital staff called in periodic updates to a local radio station deejay, who announced the mother's cervical dilation over the airwaves.
"This was before patient confidentiality laws," Petrie said.
Things have changed since then. Petrie, who moved here in late 1979, notes how much the local hospital has grown in size and advanced in technology. But that day in January, back when the hospital was a clinic and it had less than 20 beds, is a fond memory for veteran staff.
"This town made it up to be such a big deal," said Anne Robinson, a perinatal educator for the hospital.
A day of many firsts
Petrie started at the Vail Hospital, as it was called then, in August of 1979. It was his first medical practice after finishing his residency in St. Paul, Minn. He was immediately assigned to set up a maternity care center at the hospital.
"I was kind of excited about it," he said.
There was one birthing room, which was considered state-of-the-art at the time, Robinson said. Even in Denver, women still were giving birth in operating rooms.
The hospital still didn't have an obstetrician at this time (one came on year later), so Petrie was responsible for deliveries. The hospital was not equipped to deal with Caesarian sections or high-risk deliveries, either.
The Kuehl baby was not only the hospital's first planned delivery, it was the Kuehls' first baby. Cody Kuehl was first to become a third-generation Eagle Countian; his grandmother, Carol Favale, also lived in Edwards. It was Petrie's first official delivery, too.
The maternity care center opened Jan. 1, 1980. Nine days passed. Then Barbara Kuehl went into labor.
"The excitement spread through the hospital and the valley," Petrie said. "We were all a little nervous. It made me pretty nervous."
Lights, camera, action
Making things even more exciting - or nerve-wracking - was that the TV show "Hart to Hart" was filming an episode in the Vail hospital.
The film crews and the show's stars, Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers, even got caught up in the excitement. The stars signed autographs for the family once the baby was born, Robinson said.
The show's impact on the hospital was long lasting.
"The hospital didn't have an official sign on West Meadow Drive," Petrie said. "So the crews quickly made a nice sign. That sign stayed up for at least six months. We never took it down until the snow melted."
The main event
Cody Merle Kuehl was born at 2:40 p.m. on Jan. 10, 1980. His arrival made the front page of the now-defunct Vail Villager and was covered by the Vail Trail.
"It went very smoothly," Petrie is quoted as saying in the Vail Trail article.
There were 70 births in the hospital that year, Robinson said.
That number has grown considerably over the years.
"We had 70 births last month," Petrie said.
Business is booming at the hospital's ever-more-advanced maternity ward. Hospital official say there were 600 births in 2004.
But that day in 1980 had a significant impact on Petrie, who planned only to stay a year in Vail.
"I was under the impression that I would just see tourists with orthopedic injuries from skiing, or with sore throats," he said. "That was very quickly changed when experiences like caring for a family that really was a three-generation family in town.
"I think that experience early on was that Vail really was a wonderful place to live," he said.
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Bravo's Celebrity Poker Showdown
Robert Wagner will be on the Bravo Channel's Celebrity Poker Showdown on January 25th.
RJ and David Niven
Niv: The Authorized Biography of David Niven
By Graham Lord
Reviewed by Bruce Handy
Vanity Fair scribe and editor Bruce Handy was thoroughly entertained by Graham Lord’s biography of David Niven, aka “Niv.” And in case you were all, “Niv? Whaaat?” Mr. Handy explains to us that Niv is short for Niven. David’s last name: “(cf. Coop for Gary Cooper or Hef for Hugh Hefner).” Ohhhh, thanks for clarifying. To illustrate Niv’s self-deprecating attitude, Handy quotes him telling John Hurt: “I know exactly what my position is, old cock: I’m second-rate star.” We appreciated this penis reference and were appropriately satisfied with this week’s NYTBR vulgarity quota. But, boy oh boy, that was before we read on. Handy explains that Niv was known for being unreliable and as a result, Lord had a difficult time separating fact from fiction. He points to this example as one of the key mysteries that has had Niv scholars scratching their heads for decades:
One example: While Niven was in the Italian Alps filming a skiing sequence for The Pink Panther in subzero weather, his penis became frostbitten. He was advised to soak it in alcohol as a first-aid treatment, and, quickly returning to his hotel, went to the bar, asked for a brandy glass full of whiskey and took it to the men's room. Question: When another patron walked in, saw Niven with his penis in a snifter and gasped, "What are you doing?" Did the actor quip that he was urinating "in a brandy glass. I always do," (Niven's account in "The Moon's a Balloon") or "I always give it a drink now and then" (Lord's account, based on an interview with Robert Wagner)?
Answer: We’re putting our money on Robert Wagner. We assume the star of “Becoming Dick” (incidentally directed by Bob Saget) knows a thing or two about, um, “drinking” penises.
By Graham Lord
Reviewed by Bruce Handy
Vanity Fair scribe and editor Bruce Handy was thoroughly entertained by Graham Lord’s biography of David Niven, aka “Niv.” And in case you were all, “Niv? Whaaat?” Mr. Handy explains to us that Niv is short for Niven. David’s last name: “(cf. Coop for Gary Cooper or Hef for Hugh Hefner).” Ohhhh, thanks for clarifying. To illustrate Niv’s self-deprecating attitude, Handy quotes him telling John Hurt: “I know exactly what my position is, old cock: I’m second-rate star.” We appreciated this penis reference and were appropriately satisfied with this week’s NYTBR vulgarity quota. But, boy oh boy, that was before we read on. Handy explains that Niv was known for being unreliable and as a result, Lord had a difficult time separating fact from fiction. He points to this example as one of the key mysteries that has had Niv scholars scratching their heads for decades:
One example: While Niven was in the Italian Alps filming a skiing sequence for The Pink Panther in subzero weather, his penis became frostbitten. He was advised to soak it in alcohol as a first-aid treatment, and, quickly returning to his hotel, went to the bar, asked for a brandy glass full of whiskey and took it to the men's room. Question: When another patron walked in, saw Niven with his penis in a snifter and gasped, "What are you doing?" Did the actor quip that he was urinating "in a brandy glass. I always do," (Niven's account in "The Moon's a Balloon") or "I always give it a drink now and then" (Lord's account, based on an interview with Robert Wagner)?
Answer: We’re putting our money on Robert Wagner. We assume the star of “Becoming Dick” (incidentally directed by Bob Saget) knows a thing or two about, um, “drinking” penises.
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Fine Young Cannibal
Prince of Cool
New box set spotlights Chet Baker's lush life
You can gauge the significance of a modern jazz player by the number of times his or her name pops up in Miles Davis' contentious 1989 autobiography, Miles, and by the vociferousness of the attack.
By that standard, trumpeter and singer Chet Baker was a giant.
Blessed with chiseled cheeks and matinee-idol good looks, an ultra-smooth tone and a dreamy voice indicating he was definitely in touch with his feminine side, Baker became the poster boy of the West Coast jazz scene, a group of mostly white musicians that made post-bebop jazz popular with college audiences.
Davis had collaborated with some of the West Coast jazz guys, notably saxophonists Gerry Mulligan and Lee Konitz (both of whom appeared on Davis' landmark 1949 recording Birth of the Cool), and he goes fairly easy on them in his book, but he spares no venom for Baker.
"A lot of white critics kept talking about all these white jazz musicians, imitators of us, like they was some great motherfuckers and everything . . . like they was gods or something," Davis wrote. "What bothered me more than anything was that all the critics were starting to talk about Chet Baker . . . like he was the second coming of Christ. And him sounding just like me, worse than me even while I was a terrible junkie."
Needless to say, Davis wasn't too pleased when Down Beat magazine named the upstart Baker as Best Trumpet Player of 1953.
A new three-CD box set, Chet Baker: Prince of Cool (Blue Note/Pacific Jazz), highlights Baker's talents and shows that the 1953 accolade was well-deserved. Culled from sessions recorded for the Pacific Jazz label between 1952 and '57, the set breaks no new ground; all of these recordings have been available elsewhere, and the 1994 four-CD compilation Chet Baker: The Pacific Jazz Years remains the definitive collection of his work from this period. Still, this newly remastered anthology, neatly divided into three categories, should serve as an accessible introduction to acolytes and offers an easy way for cognoscenti to get Chet-at-a-glance, with or without the vocals.
Disc one ("Chet Sings") focuses on those dreamy vocal numbers; disc two ("Chet Plays") zeroes in on his trumpet-led instrumentals; and disc three ("Chet and Friends") features the trumpeter in band settings collaborating with such jazz luminaries as Mulligan, Art Pepper, Stan Getz and Shelly Manne.
Liner note contributor Ted Gioia, author of West Coast Jazz: Modern Jazz in California, 1945-1960, writes, "[Baker's] Pacific Jazz recordings . . . feature some of the defining moments of [his] career. From misty-eyed vocals to in-the-groove workouts alongside tenorist Phil Urso and pianist Bobby Timmons, serving as counterfoil to various other 'name' players . . . Baker made his mark as one of the defining jazz artists to emerge in the 1950s."
Baker easily personified the icy romanticism that marked the cool-jazz scene. He also was one of history's most tragic jazz figures.
Born Chesney Henry Baker Jr. in Oklahoma, Baker grew up in L.A. and served two hitches in the Army. While stationed in the Presidio, he began frequenting San Francisco's jazz clubs.
After a second discharge in 1952, he rose quickly to prominence, with his big break coming that spring when sax legend Charlie Parker hired him for a few West Coast dates. That summer, Baker joined the Gerry Mulligan Quartet and recorded his first Pacific Jazz sessions. He was just 23.
He made his acting debut in 1955 in the film Hell's Horizon. His lush life also became the inspiration for the fictionalized 1960 Hollywood film All the Fine Young Cannibals, with Robert Wagner portraying Chad Bixby, the fast-living jazz musician based on Baker.
During the 1960s, the musician lived up to his image, developing a heroin habit and landing in jail. In 1966 he was beaten on the streets of San Francisco, an event that may or may not have contributed to the loss of his front teeth (Baker had neglected his dental hygiene for years).
In 1968, he began wearing dentures, which are a difficult adaptation for a trumpet player who depends on his teeth to shape his embouchure. Baker's touring and recording schedule diminished, and by the early '70s he had stopped playing altogether.
In 1973 he staged a comeback, resumed recording, though sporadically, and toured mostly in Europe. Elvis Costello hired him to perform the mournful trumpet solo on his classic "Shipbuilding" in 1983, introducing Baker to a new generation of jazz fans.
In 1987 photographer Bruce Weber began shooting a film documentary about Baker. Let's Get Lost, released the following year, won widespread acclaim and would have ensured Baker's return to prominence, but just weeks before its release, the trumpet player toppled to his death from an Amsterdam hotel window after ingesting heroin and cocaine. Fans still debate whether he fell accidentally, committed suicide or was pushed.
Prince of Cool affirms that at least for a few glorious years in the mid- to late '50s, Chet Baker stood on top of the jazz world, and there's no disputing that fact.
New box set spotlights Chet Baker's lush life
You can gauge the significance of a modern jazz player by the number of times his or her name pops up in Miles Davis' contentious 1989 autobiography, Miles, and by the vociferousness of the attack.
By that standard, trumpeter and singer Chet Baker was a giant.
Blessed with chiseled cheeks and matinee-idol good looks, an ultra-smooth tone and a dreamy voice indicating he was definitely in touch with his feminine side, Baker became the poster boy of the West Coast jazz scene, a group of mostly white musicians that made post-bebop jazz popular with college audiences.
Davis had collaborated with some of the West Coast jazz guys, notably saxophonists Gerry Mulligan and Lee Konitz (both of whom appeared on Davis' landmark 1949 recording Birth of the Cool), and he goes fairly easy on them in his book, but he spares no venom for Baker.
"A lot of white critics kept talking about all these white jazz musicians, imitators of us, like they was some great motherfuckers and everything . . . like they was gods or something," Davis wrote. "What bothered me more than anything was that all the critics were starting to talk about Chet Baker . . . like he was the second coming of Christ. And him sounding just like me, worse than me even while I was a terrible junkie."
Needless to say, Davis wasn't too pleased when Down Beat magazine named the upstart Baker as Best Trumpet Player of 1953.
A new three-CD box set, Chet Baker: Prince of Cool (Blue Note/Pacific Jazz), highlights Baker's talents and shows that the 1953 accolade was well-deserved. Culled from sessions recorded for the Pacific Jazz label between 1952 and '57, the set breaks no new ground; all of these recordings have been available elsewhere, and the 1994 four-CD compilation Chet Baker: The Pacific Jazz Years remains the definitive collection of his work from this period. Still, this newly remastered anthology, neatly divided into three categories, should serve as an accessible introduction to acolytes and offers an easy way for cognoscenti to get Chet-at-a-glance, with or without the vocals.
Disc one ("Chet Sings") focuses on those dreamy vocal numbers; disc two ("Chet Plays") zeroes in on his trumpet-led instrumentals; and disc three ("Chet and Friends") features the trumpeter in band settings collaborating with such jazz luminaries as Mulligan, Art Pepper, Stan Getz and Shelly Manne.
Liner note contributor Ted Gioia, author of West Coast Jazz: Modern Jazz in California, 1945-1960, writes, "[Baker's] Pacific Jazz recordings . . . feature some of the defining moments of [his] career. From misty-eyed vocals to in-the-groove workouts alongside tenorist Phil Urso and pianist Bobby Timmons, serving as counterfoil to various other 'name' players . . . Baker made his mark as one of the defining jazz artists to emerge in the 1950s."
Baker easily personified the icy romanticism that marked the cool-jazz scene. He also was one of history's most tragic jazz figures.
Born Chesney Henry Baker Jr. in Oklahoma, Baker grew up in L.A. and served two hitches in the Army. While stationed in the Presidio, he began frequenting San Francisco's jazz clubs.
After a second discharge in 1952, he rose quickly to prominence, with his big break coming that spring when sax legend Charlie Parker hired him for a few West Coast dates. That summer, Baker joined the Gerry Mulligan Quartet and recorded his first Pacific Jazz sessions. He was just 23.
He made his acting debut in 1955 in the film Hell's Horizon. His lush life also became the inspiration for the fictionalized 1960 Hollywood film All the Fine Young Cannibals, with Robert Wagner portraying Chad Bixby, the fast-living jazz musician based on Baker.
During the 1960s, the musician lived up to his image, developing a heroin habit and landing in jail. In 1966 he was beaten on the streets of San Francisco, an event that may or may not have contributed to the loss of his front teeth (Baker had neglected his dental hygiene for years).
In 1968, he began wearing dentures, which are a difficult adaptation for a trumpet player who depends on his teeth to shape his embouchure. Baker's touring and recording schedule diminished, and by the early '70s he had stopped playing altogether.
In 1973 he staged a comeback, resumed recording, though sporadically, and toured mostly in Europe. Elvis Costello hired him to perform the mournful trumpet solo on his classic "Shipbuilding" in 1983, introducing Baker to a new generation of jazz fans.
In 1987 photographer Bruce Weber began shooting a film documentary about Baker. Let's Get Lost, released the following year, won widespread acclaim and would have ensured Baker's return to prominence, but just weeks before its release, the trumpet player toppled to his death from an Amsterdam hotel window after ingesting heroin and cocaine. Fans still debate whether he fell accidentally, committed suicide or was pushed.
Prince of Cool affirms that at least for a few glorious years in the mid- to late '50s, Chet Baker stood on top of the jazz world, and there's no disputing that fact.
Monday, January 03, 2005
Thursday, December 30, 2004
LL (Love Letters) Update
The Feb 12, 2005 performance of LL (Love Letters) in Joliet, Illinois has been postponed. The new date is Saturday, May 7, 2005.
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
Wagner, Schilling, Romano latest poker stars
For the fifth time, celebrities are ready to go all in for charity, as Bravo prepares to launch its fifth season of the popular "Celebrity Poker Showdown."
The new season of "CPS" will premiere Jan. 5 with a showdown featuring two "Everybody Loves Raymond" stars (Brad Garrett and Ray Romano), Catherine O'Hara, Sara Rue and World Series star Curt Schilling. No word on whether or not Schillings recently repaired ankle will have to be resutured for the night's round of No Limit Texas Hold 'Em.
After moving to Sunday in its last season, "CPS" will air on Tuesdays with its familiar format. Each of five episodes features a showdown between an eclectic group of stars, with the winner from each table moving onto a final game and the chance to donate the lion's share of the $250,000 prize pool to the charity of their choice.
This season's mixture of new and veteran players features Jason Alexander, Nicolas Gonzales, Allison Janney, Chris Kattan and Mary McCormack (all in Week Two), Lacey Chabert, Bonnie Hunt, J.K. Simmons, Robert Wagner and Scott Wolf (in Week Three), Brandi Chastain, Camryn Manheim, Colin Quinn, Tom Verica and Kevin Weisman (in Week Four) and Heather Graham, Jesse Metcalfe, Andrea Parker, Malcolm-Jamal Warner and Fred Willard.
Dave Foley will be back as host, joined by expert poker commentator Phil Gordon.
Previous winners have included Nicole Sullivan ("King of Queens"), Maura Tierney ("ER"), Seth Myers ("Saturday Night Live") and Mekhi Phifer ("ER").
This season's featured sponsor will be Cadillac, taking over for NetZero.
The new season of "CPS" will premiere Jan. 5 with a showdown featuring two "Everybody Loves Raymond" stars (Brad Garrett and Ray Romano), Catherine O'Hara, Sara Rue and World Series star Curt Schilling. No word on whether or not Schillings recently repaired ankle will have to be resutured for the night's round of No Limit Texas Hold 'Em.
After moving to Sunday in its last season, "CPS" will air on Tuesdays with its familiar format. Each of five episodes features a showdown between an eclectic group of stars, with the winner from each table moving onto a final game and the chance to donate the lion's share of the $250,000 prize pool to the charity of their choice.
This season's mixture of new and veteran players features Jason Alexander, Nicolas Gonzales, Allison Janney, Chris Kattan and Mary McCormack (all in Week Two), Lacey Chabert, Bonnie Hunt, J.K. Simmons, Robert Wagner and Scott Wolf (in Week Three), Brandi Chastain, Camryn Manheim, Colin Quinn, Tom Verica and Kevin Weisman (in Week Four) and Heather Graham, Jesse Metcalfe, Andrea Parker, Malcolm-Jamal Warner and Fred Willard.
Dave Foley will be back as host, joined by expert poker commentator Phil Gordon.
Previous winners have included Nicole Sullivan ("King of Queens"), Maura Tierney ("ER"), Seth Myers ("Saturday Night Live") and Mekhi Phifer ("ER").
This season's featured sponsor will be Cadillac, taking over for NetZero.
Sunday, December 19, 2004
More Pix from "Angel in the Family"
The spirit of a deceased wife and mother revisits life to make amends - and mend the spirit of the broken family she left behind, in Angel in the Family, a Hallmark Channel Original holiday movie premiering Saturday, December 18 (9/8c). L to r: Meredith Baxter, Tracey Needham, Ronny Cox and Natasha Gregson Wagner star.
In this 2004 photo from Hallmark Entertainment, Natasha Gregson Wagner is seen starring in the Christmas-themed movie 'Angel in the Family,' airing Saturday, Dec. 18, 2004, on the Hallmark Channel. She co-stars with Meredith Baxter, Tracey Needham and Ronny Cox, background. She's the adopted daughter of actor Robert Wagner and the daughter of the late actress Natalie Wood.
For more pix from "Angel in the Family," go to:
http://www.hallmarkent.com/property.php?propertyId=AngelFamily&page=photos
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Natasha Wagner to celebrate sunny, warm Christmas in LA
LOS ANGELES - Actress Natasha Gregson Wagner is planning to spend a warm and sunny Southern California Christmas with her family.
The holiday is one Wagner's favorites, so she jumped at the chance to star in the Christmas-themed movie "Angel in the Family," airing Saturday on the Hallmark Channel. She co-stars with Meredith Baxter and Ronny Cox.
Wagner, 34, and her husband, screenwriter D.V. DeVincentis ("High Fidelity" and "Grosse Pointe Blank"), will join her father Robert Wagner, his wife Jill St. John, and her sisters Katie and Courtney for Christmas.
"My nanny Willie Mae-South, who still lives at my dad's house, prepares her famous orange stuffed yams and my dad still writes a letter from Santa Claus asking if I've been naughty or nice," she said.
Wagner was 11 when her mother, actress Natalie Wood, drowned off California's Catalina Island a few days after Thanksgiving 1981.
"It left a huge hole in my heart," she said. "But with a lot of therapy and the support of my two dads and my sisters and my brother, I discovered how resilient the human heart can be."
Wagner's father is Richard Gregson, who was Wood's second husband. She was later adopted by Wagner, who married Wood twice.
"Angel in the Family"
Sarah Bishop, a struggling artist, and her estranged sister Beth, a successful advertising executive, are reunited days before Christmas when their father suffers a mild stroke. He wants only one thing for the holidays: to return with his daughters to the idyllic community and family home they abandoned after his wife's death. There, sweet memories stir Sarah's impossible dream: That her mother might be with them. Could such a miracle happen? Hallmark Channel airs "Angel in the Family" at 9 p.m. Saturday, starring Ronny Cox and Meredith Baxter as the parents, with Tracey Needham as Sarah and Natasha Gregson Wagner as Beth.
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
Jane Froman Stamp
Dear Friends,
I have just read and signed the following:
"PETITION TO SUPPORT THE ISSUANCE OF A STAMP IN HONOR OF JANE FROMAN"
We are trying to reach 5000 signatures, and we need your assistance!
Please help to get a stamp issued honoring the gracious and courageous Jane Froman by signing this petition. It only takes 30 seconds. Please follow this link:
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/796528020
Once you have signed, help even more, by telling your friends and family to sign as well!
Thank you!
Meredy
Monday, December 13, 2004
With a Song in My Heart on DVD
20th Century Fox says that since there are songs by many composers, they would have to pay royalties to all of them, which makes it too costly to release "With a Song in My Heart" on DVD.
If you'd like to join in a letter writing campaign in an attempt to get the film released on DVD, please send a polite note to:
Mr. Peter Staddon
Senior Vice President, Marketing
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, Inc.
PO Box 900
Beverly Hills, CA 90213-0900
Monday, December 06, 2004
Relative Values: Robert and Courtney Wagner
The career of the actor Robert Wagner, 74, has spanned five decades. He has appeared in over 100 films and television shows, including The Towering Inferno, A Kiss before Dying, the Pink Panther movies, and the hit TV series Hart to Hart. More recently, he played Number Two to Dr Evil in the Austin Powers films. He lives in Brentwood, Los Angeles, with his third wife, the actress Jill St John. His wife Natalie Wood was found drowned after disappearing from their yacht in 1981. Courtney, 30, his only child by Wood, lives with him in LA. She designs jewellery for Wagner & Ko, the company she formed with the handbag designer Anita Ko. Courtney has two half-sisters.
COURTNEY: Growing up with Mum and Dad felt like being in a fantasy world. I was always entertained — quite mesmerised — by them. Maybe it was because they had this real connection and great love, and it was always so much fun. I'm not sure that I really understood the magnitude of who they were. Even now I'm not sure, so I sometimes compare them to, say, Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid, or Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder.
I remember there were so many people around, it was kind of crazy. Paparazzi were all over the place, and I didn't like that at all. I just knew it was wrong. It felt invading, and I wanted to ask them to leave us alone.
We did get some alone time, though. And we always did things together, like camping in Aspen and travelling a lot.
It was kind of a big posse, including my nanny and Dad's secretary and my other two sisters, Katie and Natasha.
My dad loves life and meeting people and doing activities. He's engaged in it all. He'll take me for a drive in his car up the coast just to watch the clock tick over 500,000 miles, or he'll come and get me if he sees a spider weaving a web in the yard. Or we'll see someone on the street that's really unfortunate, and he'll say: "Imagine what that person's perspective is." He instilled in me the need to have care and compassion for others. Not that we weren't spoilt. I always got great toys, and I got a car when I was 16, but he wanted me to make sure I had a manual gear so I'd pay attention to the road.
I don't remember very much about my mother. I do remember her laugh and the way she smelt, and I remember her hands — things like that that made me feel close to her. Today it's strange to see her in, say, Splendor in the Grass, as I didn't know her then. But to see her in my favourite movie of hers, The Cracker Factory, which was made after I was born, that's what I remember her to look like.
When she passed away I was seven.
I remember feeling I was watching all this stuff happen. My father and I and my sisters started travelling a lot. We went to Switzerland and spent a lot of time there, which I think was important. I think that everything Dad did then — like not being around this crazed atmosphere in LA with the paparazzi — was a good idea. It brought us all closer together. And I always had compassion and respect for him for keeping the family together — it could easily have fallen apart.
Dad got together with Jill soon after my mother passed away, though they didn't get married until I was 16. And I appreciated that stability. I think it would have been a real mess if a bunch of different women had been coming in and out of the picture, and that was never the case. I'd say that in the past three years I've developed a relationship with Jill that's been worth the wait. She's one of the smartest people I know. She knows anything about anything, and she's very funny. When I was younger I had a nanny, though — Willie Mae. She raised me, and is really more like my mother. I was glued to this lady like you've no idea, and that's maybe why things didn't seem as horrific for me as they did for other members of my family.
Willie Mae still lives with my dad, and I moved back myself recently, as I'd just sold my house. My sister Katie and I kind of rotate staying in his guest house, and it's nice being back close to Willie Mae and my father. Of course, I have moments where I think: "Oh God, am I stepping backwards here?"
But I feel it's important to stay in the moment. I don't think there are many people that have the relationship with their father that I and my sisters have with mine. He's a father, he's a friend, and he's been such a strong male role model that it's a concern, because I don't think I'll ever find anyone like him. And if I were to search for it, I'd find myself a very lonely lady. I tease him and tell him to freeze his sperm. I'm just joking — but not really. My sister thinks I'm sick for saying that. But I think if I was to find somebody who cared like he does about the Earth and humanity and feelings and family, then that would be good.
A lot of people ask me if there's any pressure living up to the Wagner name, but I don't think so. The only pressure
I would ever feel is, I would always want my family to be proud of me. I just want my dad to feel he raised a solid person to be compassionate and care about the things that he cared about.
ROBERT: Marriage and family were always very important to me. It was the real core, the most important thing in my life. If you've got the right relationship, one that's very strong, interference from things like your career won't affect it. The relationship takes priority.
It was most important for Natalie and me to have a child, and so exciting. Courtney's arrival was a very special moment in our lives. Our priorities were to try to spend as much time as we could with her. It was the most intense time of my life. When you have the privilege of having a child and watching her grow into a woman, it's a big-time odyssey — about the biggest trip you can have. And a journey where you have absolutely no control. I'm sure there were times when I was distracted by my career. Luckily, I managed to take my children with me on location, and I think that was an interesting education for Courtney — better in many ways than school, because I was able to take her to different countries.
Courtney was always very definite about what she wanted, and she was always looking for something different. She had a tremendous gift for art from an early age. Everybody thinks their child is so special, and they are — but she had a gift from around four years old. But I didn't try to push a brush in her hand — she found all the things she's been interested in for herself. I'd support her whatever she wanted to do.
I think it's a wonderful thing what she's doing with the jewellery — I have a few pieces. I wear a ring she gave me around my neck on a chain. She started that business all on her own, and I'm just glad to have a jeweller in the family.
I think I was as good a father as I could be. I was there for her, and am there for her, though there's often times where you think you could have done better here or there. What I tried to impress upon her was to love well. If you love well, everything falls into place in your life. In everything, if you have a feeling of love, things are good.
Courtney's mother loved her dearly. She was at a very young age when her mother left her, just seven. The loss of Natalie created a tremendous void for all of us. We all had to help each other, be together and try to get through the loss. We had a lot of wonderful people who helped, and we all hung onto each other. It brought us very, very close. And, thankfully, Courtney got on with Jill really well. She'd been around quite often and loved the girl — a lot of people love Courtney. She's a very special kid.
I think Courtney would be a wonderful mother. If she was happily involved in a relationship that was meaningful to her, I'd like to see her married. Though I think I might be scary to some of the boyfriends. Boyfriends are always a little on guard with the father, and there's been some I've disapproved of.
But I do absolutely nothing. There's nothing I can do. I don't think what I say would do any good, because it's not
my life — why should I get involved in her relationships? If she sees something in a guy, I might think he's an absolute asshole, but I can't say that. It's not my right to say that, unless I'm asked.
I've found that when your kids come to making choices, there's nothing you can do. I'm along for the ride — and I've been on the ride since she was a young woman. I'm just hanging on here.
Monday, November 29, 2004
LL
Real-life sweeties Robert Wagner and Jill St. John come to Colorado Springs at 7 p.m. Thursday to perform "Love Letters" at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center (719-634-5583).
Sunday, November 28, 2004
Coffee-table books - naughty and nice this year
Coffee-table books are judged unfairly, by some, as mere collections of pretty pictures.
But many of the best new glossy books aren't just visually nice. Some are a little bit naughty as well.
In these, the photographs, artworks or texts reveal their subjects' complexity - showing, as the introduction to one notes, "There is always a darker side, if a story is complete."
With its dandy title, "The Bad and the Beautiful" (Abrams, 177 pages, $45) illustrates just that. Ellen Graham's black-and-white celebrity photos are not mere glamour shots. Robert Wagner frowns a bit at the camera while holding a beer and lying in a hammock. On the facing page, Natalie Wood nurses their baby, Courtney Wagner, in a shot taken the same year, 1974. Rock Hudson smiles happily in 1966, and on the next page his frequent co-star Doris Day, with the barest grin, poses in a T-shirt that says "BE KIND TO ANIMALS OR I'LL KILL YOU." The "Bad" in the title is rarely explicit: There are no extensive captions supplying details of Sharon Tate's death or Robert Blake's arrest.
But many of the best new glossy books aren't just visually nice. Some are a little bit naughty as well.
In these, the photographs, artworks or texts reveal their subjects' complexity - showing, as the introduction to one notes, "There is always a darker side, if a story is complete."
With its dandy title, "The Bad and the Beautiful" (Abrams, 177 pages, $45) illustrates just that. Ellen Graham's black-and-white celebrity photos are not mere glamour shots. Robert Wagner frowns a bit at the camera while holding a beer and lying in a hammock. On the facing page, Natalie Wood nurses their baby, Courtney Wagner, in a shot taken the same year, 1974. Rock Hudson smiles happily in 1966, and on the next page his frequent co-star Doris Day, with the barest grin, poses in a T-shirt that says "BE KIND TO ANIMALS OR I'LL KILL YOU." The "Bad" in the title is rarely explicit: There are no extensive captions supplying details of Sharon Tate's death or Robert Blake's arrest.
Friday, November 26, 2004
Reminder: Hope and Faith and Pix
Robert Wagner appears on "Hope and Faith" tonight.
There are new pix of Robert Wagner at Getty Images.
http://tinyurl.com/3u27c
http://tinyurl.com/4oduf
There are new pix of Robert Wagner at Getty Images.
http://tinyurl.com/3u27c
http://tinyurl.com/4oduf
Thursday, November 25, 2004
Sharon Stone
HOLLYWOOD screen siren Sharon Stone was ordained as a minister so she could conduct a wedding for a couple of pals.
The 46-year-old Catwoman star got her clerical credentials from a mail-order firm. Stars who witnessed her religious debut included Jack Nicholson and Robert Wagner, according to the New York Post. The groom, US restaurant owner Michael Bourseau, who married stylist Brenda Swanson, said: 'No one will believe it when I hang my wedding certificate on the wall.'
We just hope Sharon didn't pull any Basic Instinct moves during the ceremony...
DEARLY BELOVED
THE Rev. Sharon Stone? The star became a mail-order minister and performed her first official wedding over the weekend, presiding over the union of restaurateur Michael Bourseau and sometime stylist Brenda Swanson at her Coldwater Canyon home. Jack Nicholson and Robert Wagner served as the witnesses. Bourseau, who owns Mix in West Hollywood, was heard by a PAGE SIX spy saying, "No one's going to believe it when I hang my wedding certificate up on the wall." Stone's reps did not return calls for comment.
The 46-year-old Catwoman star got her clerical credentials from a mail-order firm. Stars who witnessed her religious debut included Jack Nicholson and Robert Wagner, according to the New York Post. The groom, US restaurant owner Michael Bourseau, who married stylist Brenda Swanson, said: 'No one will believe it when I hang my wedding certificate on the wall.'
We just hope Sharon didn't pull any Basic Instinct moves during the ceremony...
DEARLY BELOVED
THE Rev. Sharon Stone? The star became a mail-order minister and performed her first official wedding over the weekend, presiding over the union of restaurateur Michael Bourseau and sometime stylist Brenda Swanson at her Coldwater Canyon home. Jack Nicholson and Robert Wagner served as the witnesses. Bourseau, who owns Mix in West Hollywood, was heard by a PAGE SIX spy saying, "No one's going to believe it when I hang my wedding certificate up on the wall." Stone's reps did not return calls for comment.
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Love Letters in Joliet
A performance of Love Letters is scheduled for February 12, 2005 at the Rialto Square Theatre, Joliet, Illinois.
Friday, November 19, 2004
Child Free TV Couples – Hart to Hart
When I was a kid, I remember sitting at my grandparents' house after school eating Pringles and watching Hart to Hart, starring Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers. Back then I wasn’t thinking about how their crime-fighting adventures would be drastically curtailed if they were dragging a kid around with them.
But now that I have proclaimed myself a member of the child free community, anytime I see a "role model" for those of us who don’t want kids, I take notice. And the Harts are one heck of a role model for child free couples!
Jonathan and Jennifer have it all: a gorgeous mansion, a steamy relationship, and the freedom to skip town and head to a tropical isle or to Paris "on business" at a moment’s notice. They live in high style, are hopelessly in love with each other and enjoy every minute of their lives.
The decision not to give the characters any children was deliberate and helped to create a super couple that proved you don’t have to have kids to be fulfilled in life.
Robert Wagner believed that fans wouldn’t accept the danger-laden lives the Harts led if they had kids. “I mean (viewers) got crazy when we'd go away without the dog,” he said.
In an another interview, Stefanie Powers said that it “just didn’t seem practical” to give them a family.
Indeed, it isn’t practical to introduce a baby into a relationship that is thriving just the way it is. Face it, the Harts could have afforded a whole slew of children. Even though they never talked about it on the show, they must have *chosen* not to have a family. And they are more than content without one.
Sounds like a lot of us, doesn’t it? (minus the Rolls Royce and private jet, of course).
But now that I have proclaimed myself a member of the child free community, anytime I see a "role model" for those of us who don’t want kids, I take notice. And the Harts are one heck of a role model for child free couples!
Jonathan and Jennifer have it all: a gorgeous mansion, a steamy relationship, and the freedom to skip town and head to a tropical isle or to Paris "on business" at a moment’s notice. They live in high style, are hopelessly in love with each other and enjoy every minute of their lives.
The decision not to give the characters any children was deliberate and helped to create a super couple that proved you don’t have to have kids to be fulfilled in life.
Robert Wagner believed that fans wouldn’t accept the danger-laden lives the Harts led if they had kids. “I mean (viewers) got crazy when we'd go away without the dog,” he said.
In an another interview, Stefanie Powers said that it “just didn’t seem practical” to give them a family.
Indeed, it isn’t practical to introduce a baby into a relationship that is thriving just the way it is. Face it, the Harts could have afforded a whole slew of children. Even though they never talked about it on the show, they must have *chosen* not to have a family. And they are more than content without one.
Sounds like a lot of us, doesn’t it? (minus the Rolls Royce and private jet, of course).
Thursday, November 18, 2004
CIA Needs A Few Good Agents, And Hollywood's Got Plenty
"There's a man who leads a life of danger. To everyone he meets he stays a stranger. With every move he makes, Another chance he takes. Odds are he won't live to see tomorrow.
Secret Agent Man.
Secret Agent Man.
They've given you a number.
And taken away your name."
There's been a shake-up in the CIA's clandestine service, and it looks as though CIA director Porter Goss should start looking for other spy operatives. Java thinks he should look to some of the great spies of the past for inspiration, such as:
# James Coburn as Derick Flint. How can you resist a guy spy who in the movie "In Like Flint" investigates women who brainwash other women through their beauty salon hair dryers? But one nagging question remains: "Would his Nehru jacket and bell bottoms work today?"
# Dean Martin as Matt Helm in movies like "The Ambushers." When he could take his hands off women and put his drink down, he was unstoppable. Plus, then you could go home and watch Martin's roasts on DVD.
# Don Adams as Maxwell Smart. He bumbled and fumbled, but he got the job done. He just had to get the chief to dust off the Cone of Silence.
# Robert Culp and Bill Cosby in "I Spy." When their tennis rackets cooled off, they took care of business.
# Robert Conrad as Jim West and Ross Martin as Artemus Gordon in "The Wild, Wild West." Agents of President Grant, they could do no worse under the leadership of Director Goss.
# Robert Vaughn as Napoleon Solo and David McCallum as Illya Kuryakin in "Man From U.N.C.L.E." were agents of the United Network Command for Law Enforcement, which explains why people preferred to call it "UNCLE." They would be great CIA agents, as long as Goss let them open Channel D when they talked into their pens.
# Robert Wagner as Alexander Mundy in "It Takes a Thief." He's a smooth, suave jewel thief who joins an American espionage agency called the SIA, precariously close to our group. He's just too cool for words, and then Fred Astaire plays his father, Alistair Mundy. The ultimate.
# Peter Mark Richman plays wimpy secret agent Adam Chance in the movie "Agent for H.A.R.M." (Human Aetiological Relations Machine, which I'm sure you know what that means) who helps protect a scientist who has developed "a gun that shoots boogers" (the plot summary's words exactly) at people from evil forces.
# Patrick McGoohan played John Drake, special security agent, in the movie "Danger Man," precursor to "Secret Agent Man" (jaunty lyrics above). He got exotic assignments from Her Majesty's Secret Service, which introduced such Bond-like gadgets as exploding tie-pins and tape-recording shavers. Goss, pay attention.
# Jennifer Garner portrayed CIA/Alliance double agent Sydney Bristow in "Alias" against terrorists too numerous to mention, but not the one we invaded Iraq to find.
# Halle Berry as agent Jinx Johnson in "Die Another Day." Goss need not worry about threats to our borders once Berry is spotted coming out of the surf in that swimsuit with a knife on the side.
# Pierce Brosnan as Bond, James Bond. Sean Connery was our favorite, but if we can't have him, please don't deliver us Colin Farrell.
# Mike Myers as Austin Powers as "The Spy Who Shagged Me." In those wacky threads and with his mojo, the British spy would do our CIA proud.
Secret Agent Man.
Secret Agent Man.
They've given you a number.
And taken away your name."
There's been a shake-up in the CIA's clandestine service, and it looks as though CIA director Porter Goss should start looking for other spy operatives. Java thinks he should look to some of the great spies of the past for inspiration, such as:
# James Coburn as Derick Flint. How can you resist a guy spy who in the movie "In Like Flint" investigates women who brainwash other women through their beauty salon hair dryers? But one nagging question remains: "Would his Nehru jacket and bell bottoms work today?"
# Dean Martin as Matt Helm in movies like "The Ambushers." When he could take his hands off women and put his drink down, he was unstoppable. Plus, then you could go home and watch Martin's roasts on DVD.
# Don Adams as Maxwell Smart. He bumbled and fumbled, but he got the job done. He just had to get the chief to dust off the Cone of Silence.
# Robert Culp and Bill Cosby in "I Spy." When their tennis rackets cooled off, they took care of business.
# Robert Conrad as Jim West and Ross Martin as Artemus Gordon in "The Wild, Wild West." Agents of President Grant, they could do no worse under the leadership of Director Goss.
# Robert Vaughn as Napoleon Solo and David McCallum as Illya Kuryakin in "Man From U.N.C.L.E." were agents of the United Network Command for Law Enforcement, which explains why people preferred to call it "UNCLE." They would be great CIA agents, as long as Goss let them open Channel D when they talked into their pens.
# Robert Wagner as Alexander Mundy in "It Takes a Thief." He's a smooth, suave jewel thief who joins an American espionage agency called the SIA, precariously close to our group. He's just too cool for words, and then Fred Astaire plays his father, Alistair Mundy. The ultimate.
# Peter Mark Richman plays wimpy secret agent Adam Chance in the movie "Agent for H.A.R.M." (Human Aetiological Relations Machine, which I'm sure you know what that means) who helps protect a scientist who has developed "a gun that shoots boogers" (the plot summary's words exactly) at people from evil forces.
# Patrick McGoohan played John Drake, special security agent, in the movie "Danger Man," precursor to "Secret Agent Man" (jaunty lyrics above). He got exotic assignments from Her Majesty's Secret Service, which introduced such Bond-like gadgets as exploding tie-pins and tape-recording shavers. Goss, pay attention.
# Jennifer Garner portrayed CIA/Alliance double agent Sydney Bristow in "Alias" against terrorists too numerous to mention, but not the one we invaded Iraq to find.
# Halle Berry as agent Jinx Johnson in "Die Another Day." Goss need not worry about threats to our borders once Berry is spotted coming out of the surf in that swimsuit with a knife on the side.
# Pierce Brosnan as Bond, James Bond. Sean Connery was our favorite, but if we can't have him, please don't deliver us Colin Farrell.
# Mike Myers as Austin Powers as "The Spy Who Shagged Me." In those wacky threads and with his mojo, the British spy would do our CIA proud.
Heroes
In addition, Shatner will return in the Miss Congeniality sequel; he continues to write books; and he may make a movie for ABC. In Heroes, Shatner, Lee Majors and Robert Wagner are slated to play over-the-hill TV detectives pressed into a real investigation.
Monday, November 15, 2004
NY Daily News: Rush & Molloy's Column
Robert Wagner and Jill St. John have been to Nello's to sample the $275-a-plate white-truffle tagliolini.
Saturday, November 13, 2004
R.J.'s Broken Finger
I just heard that R.J. broke his finger in September. The story is that he was doing a stunt where he was supposed to fall onto an inflatable mattress, but he fell badly and broke his finger. Apparently, the injury is taking a long time to heal.
Friday, November 12, 2004
RJ in Pilot on Wealth TV
RJ is currently filming an interview with Charlie Jones. He is a famous sports personality with a talk show. His show is supposed to be on Wealth TV, which is a cable channel. RJ is part of the pilot for this show.
Hope and Faith Tonight
9:00-9:30PM
Hope & Faith (ABC, TV-PG-DL) Wait until tomorrow morning to watch this sitcom, when its cartoonish rhythm can be enjoyed with a big bowl of sugary cereal. Tonight the gals try to stop Dad (Robert Wagner) from marrying his new girlfriend, Mandi (Jenny McCarthy). That means you can expect lunacy and pratfalls, courtesy of Kelly Ripa, who steals the show with astounding physical energy and a Patricia Field wardrobe that — hey, come to think of it, totally matches my Froot Loops!
Hope & Faith (ABC, TV-PG-DL) Wait until tomorrow morning to watch this sitcom, when its cartoonish rhythm can be enjoyed with a big bowl of sugary cereal. Tonight the gals try to stop Dad (Robert Wagner) from marrying his new girlfriend, Mandi (Jenny McCarthy). That means you can expect lunacy and pratfalls, courtesy of Kelly Ripa, who steals the show with astounding physical energy and a Patricia Field wardrobe that — hey, come to think of it, totally matches my Froot Loops!
Thanksgiving Hope and Faith
HOPE & FAITH - "9021-UH-OH" - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET)
The family flashes back to Thanksgiving Day a decade ago, with Faith hosting a frenetic and hilarious holiday dinner in her fabulous Hollywood pad. She goes to great lengths to impress her parents (Cheryl Ladd and Robert Wagner), including posing as the girlfriend of "Beverly Hills: 90210" hunk Brian Austin Green, who has left Charley star struck. All hell breaks loose when family secrets are exposed.
The family flashes back to Thanksgiving Day a decade ago, with Faith hosting a frenetic and hilarious holiday dinner in her fabulous Hollywood pad. She goes to great lengths to impress her parents (Cheryl Ladd and Robert Wagner), including posing as the girlfriend of "Beverly Hills: 90210" hunk Brian Austin Green, who has left Charley star struck. All hell breaks loose when family secrets are exposed.
Sunday, November 07, 2004
Robert Wagner reveals Stanwyck affair
Robert Wagner revealed that he and legendary actress Barbara Stanwyck had a secret affair, World Entertainment News Network reported.
Wagner, 74, said he was just 22 while Stanwyck was 45 when they started their five-year romance.
"At that time, it could never have been (revealed)," Wagner said. "It was not public, it was hidden. It just couldn't come out. Today, it wouldn't have made any difference ... There's a book being written about her, and they came to me, and it was going to come out. She was an absolutely wonderful, wonderful woman, and it was so great for me. I loved her very much."
Stanwyck died in 1990 at the age of 82.
Wagner, 74, said he was just 22 while Stanwyck was 45 when they started their five-year romance.
"At that time, it could never have been (revealed)," Wagner said. "It was not public, it was hidden. It just couldn't come out. Today, it wouldn't have made any difference ... There's a book being written about her, and they came to me, and it was going to come out. She was an absolutely wonderful, wonderful woman, and it was so great for me. I loved her very much."
Stanwyck died in 1990 at the age of 82.
Friday, October 29, 2004
November Sweeps - RJ on Hope & Faith
HOPE & FAITH -- "NATAL ATTRACTION" -- FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET)
Hope and Faith play matchmakers between their dad (Robert Wagner) and their gynecologist, Anne (Jaclyn Smith). But the budding relationship is in jeopardy when they discover Mandi (Jenny McCarthy), Faith's former friend, Anne's patient and Jack's one-time fling, is pregnant with Jack's child.
HOPE & FAITH - "STAND BY YOUR MANDI" - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET)
Hope and Faith upset their dad, Jack (Robert Wagner), when they try to prevent him from marrying Mandi (Jenny McCarthy) when he truly loves Anne (Jaclyn Smith). But Jack insists on wedding the mother of his expected baby, unaware that Mandi has a little problem telling truth from fiction.
HOPE & FAITH - "9021-UH-OH" - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET)
The family flashes back to Thanksgiving Day a decade ago, with Faith hosting a
frenetic and hilarious holiday dinner in her fabulous Hollywood pad. She goes to great lengths to impress her parents (Cheryl Ladd and Robert Wagner), including
posing as the girlfriend of "Beverly Hills: 90210" hunk Brian Austin Green, who has left Charley star struck. All hell breaks loose when family secrets are exposed. Thanksgiving-themed episode.
Hope and Faith play matchmakers between their dad (Robert Wagner) and their gynecologist, Anne (Jaclyn Smith). But the budding relationship is in jeopardy when they discover Mandi (Jenny McCarthy), Faith's former friend, Anne's patient and Jack's one-time fling, is pregnant with Jack's child.
HOPE & FAITH - "STAND BY YOUR MANDI" - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET)
Hope and Faith upset their dad, Jack (Robert Wagner), when they try to prevent him from marrying Mandi (Jenny McCarthy) when he truly loves Anne (Jaclyn Smith). But Jack insists on wedding the mother of his expected baby, unaware that Mandi has a little problem telling truth from fiction.
HOPE & FAITH - "9021-UH-OH" - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET)
The family flashes back to Thanksgiving Day a decade ago, with Faith hosting a
frenetic and hilarious holiday dinner in her fabulous Hollywood pad. She goes to great lengths to impress her parents (Cheryl Ladd and Robert Wagner), including
posing as the girlfriend of "Beverly Hills: 90210" hunk Brian Austin Green, who has left Charley star struck. All hell breaks loose when family secrets are exposed. Thanksgiving-themed episode.
Friday, October 01, 2004
Amazon.com: Books: Harold Lloyd's Hollywood Nudes in 3D!
Editorial Review
In Hollywood Nudes in 3D! a dazzling array of Hollywood starlets, including Marilyn Monroe, Bettie Page, Dixie Evans, and Tura Satana, come to life in all of their enticing loveliness.
Harold Lloyd, star of such classic silent films as Safety Last and The Freshman, shot more than 300,000 photographs with a stereoscopic (3D) camera. Many of the photos were of young women who dreamed of making it big in Hollywood. Here--for the first time ever in book form--are 200 of Lloyd's most lavish, luscious, and ludicrous pictures of Hollywood nudes posed against some of the most dramatic and creative backgrounds imaginable. Approximately 75 are reproduced in tantalizing 3D, and can be viewed with the aid of the special "Harold Lloyd-style" glasses included with the book.
The book was assembled by his granddaughter Suzanne Lloyd and Robert Wagner. Wagner also wrote the intro.
In Hollywood Nudes in 3D! a dazzling array of Hollywood starlets, including Marilyn Monroe, Bettie Page, Dixie Evans, and Tura Satana, come to life in all of their enticing loveliness.
Harold Lloyd, star of such classic silent films as Safety Last and The Freshman, shot more than 300,000 photographs with a stereoscopic (3D) camera. Many of the photos were of young women who dreamed of making it big in Hollywood. Here--for the first time ever in book form--are 200 of Lloyd's most lavish, luscious, and ludicrous pictures of Hollywood nudes posed against some of the most dramatic and creative backgrounds imaginable. Approximately 75 are reproduced in tantalizing 3D, and can be viewed with the aid of the special "Harold Lloyd-style" glasses included with the book.
The book was assembled by his granddaughter Suzanne Lloyd and Robert Wagner. Wagner also wrote the intro.
Friday, August 02, 2002
Robert Wagner on Natalie Wood, 'Tadpoling' and Survival
Natalie Wood was not the first love of Robert Wagner's life. Stop the presses, because Wagner — currently starring in the third Austin Powers film as Dr. Evil's trusted sidekick "Number Two" — got around a lot before he married Wood in 1957.
It's a story reminiscent of the current movie Tadpole, in which a young man is seduced by his stepmother's friend. Miramax has been trying to promote the idea of "tadpoling" as this summer's trend. But back in 1953, Wagner was way ahead of the game. He met the four-time Oscar nominee Barbara Stanwyck on the set of Titanic (1953). He played the young idealist later portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio. Stanwyck was the mother of the society girl his character fell in love with, whom Kate Winslet would play in the 1997 movie. He was 23, and Stanwyck was 46. Wagner told me the affair lasted five years, but the two remained close until her death in 1990.
"I was her love. I wasn't her 'Tadpole.' She was a wonderful woman, wonderful lady. It was a great time in my life, to be a young actor in the motion picture business. She was very influential."
How did they manage to keep it out of the papers, away from famous gossip columnists like Winchell, Hopper and Parsons? "It was all handled. We were very discreet. And I think they might have, I think it came out a little bit. But we had a few beards."
Wagner is the quintessential star. In addition to his hit TV series like Hart to Hart and Switch, he made some memorable movie appearances in A Kiss Before Dying (1956) and Harper (1966). He counts among his mentors Spencer Tracy, Richard Widmark and Lew Wasserman.
Last week, Terry Press of DreamWorks said that new movie stars should take lessons from Tom Hanks. But really, even Hanks might agree that Wagner is the standard for classy deportment in Tinseltown. He's been there since the mid 1950s, for God's sake! He's been up, he's been down, he was married to an icon and he's still working and looking great at 72 years old. You can't beat that with a stick.
For the last dozen years, Wagner has been married to former Bond girl Jill St. John. You heard recently about a documentary about "it" girls? St. John was all of 'it' and so much more back in the early 1970s when she dated Henry Kissinger and ruled the town. She was glamour personified. When Wagner's mega-famous wife, Natalie Wood, died in 1981, St. John quietly appeared on the scene and took over as friend, step mom and second wife. The couple has not been apart since then. A few years ago, they even made a memorable appearance on Seinfeld as the elegant parents of Kramer's garrulous friend Mickey.
"Didn't you think Seinfeld was a great effort?" he asks. "We were asked to do it. It came out of nowhere. The sight gag was so funny. I was blown away there. And I've been around ... I've been around."
Natalie Wood: A Happy Life, Says Wagner
But Wagner suffers the slings and arrows of having been married to a Hollywood superstar. Two years ago, out of nowhere and for no apparent reason, Vanity Fair dredged up whatever it could about Wood's accidental drowning and tried to make Wagner look bad. It didn't work, even though the magazine resurrected old news by interviewing the captain of Wagner and Wood's yacht and Wood's sister — neither of whom Wagner had spoken to in years. But Wagner's ultimate innocence in the matter prevailed, and the writer vanished along with his tabloid implications.
Wagner just kept going.
"The thing is, you can't do anything about these articles. This guy's already said these things in other articles." He clears his throat. "The situation is really minimal, what happened. He has to go home at night. But I didn't really [read it]. I asked my children not to read it. And the thing is, it was so unnecessary. I don't even know why he wrote it."
Wagner — who went on to raise three successful beautiful daughters after Wood's death — doesn't talk about her much in public. But when she came up yesterday in lunch conversation, Wagner was diplomatic and gentlemanly, but willing to be candid. He is in the tricky position of maintaining Wood's legacy while trying to live his life. "I'm very happy she's an icon. Sometimes it happens. I thought Spencer Tracy would become like that, like Humphrey Bogart. But he hasn't."
It's not easy. Other Hollywood icons, like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis, Dean Martin, etc., are often thought of as having had tragic lives, I offered.
"I don't think she had a tragic life," Wagner says. "She seemed to be ... she worked very hard on herself and on pulling herself together. She had a tremendous career. I mean, she really had a run that was good." His voice is full of admiration and pride. "She loved her children, she was happy. To try and go in and turn that all upside down is just---" He sighs and shakes his head.
"You know with Natalie, I have handled her estate since she left us. I've done several things that have perpetuated her legacy. The estate is handled by Global Icons, and they police the world so her picture isn't on a T-shirt or coffee cup unless we approve of it. Right now I'm trying to do a fragrance called Natalie. She's very, very much alive for us."
It must be hard to turn on the TV and see crazy things, I ask.
"I wish there was some way to get the law changed. They can write anything about you after you're deceased and there's nothing you can do about it. There's been so much written. She was a great part of my life, and my daughters, my god. We talk about her all the time. She's a part of all of us."
A Family Man Without Regrets
Wagner has made his reputation on being suave and sophisticated, a small screen Cary Grant. But he also has an impressive interest in history, current events and politics. Far from being a plastic idol, he's several layers deep and quite introspective. For example, after Wood's death he turned into a Mr. Mom, caring for three daughters and making sure they became well-adjusted adults. No big scandals there, no stories of drug addiction or 7-11 hold-ups.
"It's all a judgment call. I think you have to be very fortunate," he says about parenting. "These kids have all done their thing, but all normal things. It's a tough time for young people." Daughter Kate works in television production, Courtney is a jewelry designer, Natasha is an actress. "After Natalie we were all very much together. It made us all very close."
Sure there's loads more gossip — take, for example, the story that a young Warren Beatty, then engaged to a slightly older Joan Collins, broke up Wagner's first marriage to Wood in 1962. (Wagner says now it didn't happen that way, and the couple remarried in 1972.) Collins had an affair with Cloris Leachman's husband, George Englund, almost simultaneously. Wagner's good friend was Debbie Reynolds, who was married to Eddie Fisher, who cheated on her with Liz Taylor. No one in today's Hollywood could have kept up with this group.
It must have been a crazy time, I offer. "It was heartbreaking for me," Wagner says. "I think I could have probably handled it a little better." He must run into Beatty now, I ask. "Sure. All the time," Wagner says. And if Collins were to walk into this restaurant right now? "I'd wrap my arms around her and hold her as tight as I could," he says. "I love her. She's a wonderful lady. She has such courage. She's such a good actress."
After all these years, there are no scores to settle. It's what makes Robert Wagner the standard for cool.
"People ask me, 'What do you think has made you sustain this long?' I honest to God don't know. I mean, I got up to the plate and swung at a lot of those and never hit it," he says, looking at his list of credits going back 50 years. "But I got up there."
It's a story reminiscent of the current movie Tadpole, in which a young man is seduced by his stepmother's friend. Miramax has been trying to promote the idea of "tadpoling" as this summer's trend. But back in 1953, Wagner was way ahead of the game. He met the four-time Oscar nominee Barbara Stanwyck on the set of Titanic (1953). He played the young idealist later portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio. Stanwyck was the mother of the society girl his character fell in love with, whom Kate Winslet would play in the 1997 movie. He was 23, and Stanwyck was 46. Wagner told me the affair lasted five years, but the two remained close until her death in 1990.
"I was her love. I wasn't her 'Tadpole.' She was a wonderful woman, wonderful lady. It was a great time in my life, to be a young actor in the motion picture business. She was very influential."
How did they manage to keep it out of the papers, away from famous gossip columnists like Winchell, Hopper and Parsons? "It was all handled. We were very discreet. And I think they might have, I think it came out a little bit. But we had a few beards."
Wagner is the quintessential star. In addition to his hit TV series like Hart to Hart and Switch, he made some memorable movie appearances in A Kiss Before Dying (1956) and Harper (1966). He counts among his mentors Spencer Tracy, Richard Widmark and Lew Wasserman.
Last week, Terry Press of DreamWorks said that new movie stars should take lessons from Tom Hanks. But really, even Hanks might agree that Wagner is the standard for classy deportment in Tinseltown. He's been there since the mid 1950s, for God's sake! He's been up, he's been down, he was married to an icon and he's still working and looking great at 72 years old. You can't beat that with a stick.
For the last dozen years, Wagner has been married to former Bond girl Jill St. John. You heard recently about a documentary about "it" girls? St. John was all of 'it' and so much more back in the early 1970s when she dated Henry Kissinger and ruled the town. She was glamour personified. When Wagner's mega-famous wife, Natalie Wood, died in 1981, St. John quietly appeared on the scene and took over as friend, step mom and second wife. The couple has not been apart since then. A few years ago, they even made a memorable appearance on Seinfeld as the elegant parents of Kramer's garrulous friend Mickey.
"Didn't you think Seinfeld was a great effort?" he asks. "We were asked to do it. It came out of nowhere. The sight gag was so funny. I was blown away there. And I've been around ... I've been around."
Natalie Wood: A Happy Life, Says Wagner
But Wagner suffers the slings and arrows of having been married to a Hollywood superstar. Two years ago, out of nowhere and for no apparent reason, Vanity Fair dredged up whatever it could about Wood's accidental drowning and tried to make Wagner look bad. It didn't work, even though the magazine resurrected old news by interviewing the captain of Wagner and Wood's yacht and Wood's sister — neither of whom Wagner had spoken to in years. But Wagner's ultimate innocence in the matter prevailed, and the writer vanished along with his tabloid implications.
Wagner just kept going.
"The thing is, you can't do anything about these articles. This guy's already said these things in other articles." He clears his throat. "The situation is really minimal, what happened. He has to go home at night. But I didn't really [read it]. I asked my children not to read it. And the thing is, it was so unnecessary. I don't even know why he wrote it."
Wagner — who went on to raise three successful beautiful daughters after Wood's death — doesn't talk about her much in public. But when she came up yesterday in lunch conversation, Wagner was diplomatic and gentlemanly, but willing to be candid. He is in the tricky position of maintaining Wood's legacy while trying to live his life. "I'm very happy she's an icon. Sometimes it happens. I thought Spencer Tracy would become like that, like Humphrey Bogart. But he hasn't."
It's not easy. Other Hollywood icons, like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis, Dean Martin, etc., are often thought of as having had tragic lives, I offered.
"I don't think she had a tragic life," Wagner says. "She seemed to be ... she worked very hard on herself and on pulling herself together. She had a tremendous career. I mean, she really had a run that was good." His voice is full of admiration and pride. "She loved her children, she was happy. To try and go in and turn that all upside down is just---" He sighs and shakes his head.
"You know with Natalie, I have handled her estate since she left us. I've done several things that have perpetuated her legacy. The estate is handled by Global Icons, and they police the world so her picture isn't on a T-shirt or coffee cup unless we approve of it. Right now I'm trying to do a fragrance called Natalie. She's very, very much alive for us."
It must be hard to turn on the TV and see crazy things, I ask.
"I wish there was some way to get the law changed. They can write anything about you after you're deceased and there's nothing you can do about it. There's been so much written. She was a great part of my life, and my daughters, my god. We talk about her all the time. She's a part of all of us."
A Family Man Without Regrets
Wagner has made his reputation on being suave and sophisticated, a small screen Cary Grant. But he also has an impressive interest in history, current events and politics. Far from being a plastic idol, he's several layers deep and quite introspective. For example, after Wood's death he turned into a Mr. Mom, caring for three daughters and making sure they became well-adjusted adults. No big scandals there, no stories of drug addiction or 7-11 hold-ups.
"It's all a judgment call. I think you have to be very fortunate," he says about parenting. "These kids have all done their thing, but all normal things. It's a tough time for young people." Daughter Kate works in television production, Courtney is a jewelry designer, Natasha is an actress. "After Natalie we were all very much together. It made us all very close."
Sure there's loads more gossip — take, for example, the story that a young Warren Beatty, then engaged to a slightly older Joan Collins, broke up Wagner's first marriage to Wood in 1962. (Wagner says now it didn't happen that way, and the couple remarried in 1972.) Collins had an affair with Cloris Leachman's husband, George Englund, almost simultaneously. Wagner's good friend was Debbie Reynolds, who was married to Eddie Fisher, who cheated on her with Liz Taylor. No one in today's Hollywood could have kept up with this group.
It must have been a crazy time, I offer. "It was heartbreaking for me," Wagner says. "I think I could have probably handled it a little better." He must run into Beatty now, I ask. "Sure. All the time," Wagner says. And if Collins were to walk into this restaurant right now? "I'd wrap my arms around her and hold her as tight as I could," he says. "I love her. She's a wonderful lady. She has such courage. She's such a good actress."
After all these years, there are no scores to settle. It's what makes Robert Wagner the standard for cool.
"People ask me, 'What do you think has made you sustain this long?' I honest to God don't know. I mean, I got up to the plate and swung at a lot of those and never hit it," he says, looking at his list of credits going back 50 years. "But I got up there."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)