Sarah Palin Gets Prank Called!

This is hysterical! Here is a recording of Sarah Palin being prank called by a couple of jokesters, who pretended to be the French president. You MUST listen!

VIDEO: The Real John McCain With Tina Fey as Sarah Palin on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE

As always, Tina Fey was genius tonight on Saturday Night Live as Sarah Palin, but why John McCain agreed to do this sketch is beyond me. Enjoy.



Click here to listen to Sarah Palin being prank called!

STEP IT UP AND DANCE Winner Cody Green Will Star in Broadway's WEST SIDE STORY Revival

The reality television/Broadway connection continues, as it was announced today that Step It Up and Dance winner Cody Green will play Riff in the new Broadway revival of West Side Story.

Green will be joined by A Catered Affair's Matt Cavenaugh as Tony, Josefina Scaglione as Maria, In the Heights' Karen Olivo as Anita and George Akram as Bernardo. Xanadu's Curtis Holbrook will be featured in the ensemble.

Arthur Laurents will direct the revival, which is scheduled to open March, 19, 2009. (The musical will play an out-of-town engagement at the National Theatre in Washington, DC — Dec. 15, 2008-Jan. 17, 2009.)

Go Cody!

GILMORE GIRLS Star Lauren Graham Will Star in Broadway Revival of GUYS AND DOLLS

Well color me ecstatic!!

Sources tell me that one of my very favorite actresses, Gilmore Girls star Lauren Graham, will play Adelaide opposite Oliver Platt's Nathan Detroit in the fortcoming Broadway revival of Guys and Dolls. Though I can't vouch for their sources, USA Today is also reporting this news.

Holla!

Graham, of course, was egregiously overlooked by the television academy for her brilliant work on Gilmore Girls. She has also starred in the films Because I Said So, Flash of Genius and Evan Almighty, among others.

She'll be brilliant as the forever-unmarried Adelaide!

My sources tell me that casting for Sky and Sarah is still being finalized.

Julianne Hough Will Need Surgery to Remove Appendix; Edyta Sliwinska Will Partner Cody Linley in Her Absence

Golden child Julianne Hough revealed on tonight's Dancing with the Stars that she has been diagnosed with endometriosis, and she will have surgery to remove her appendix tomorrow.

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! Julianne!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's not clear that Julianne intended to reveal this information on tonight's show, and she might not have had the wench known as Samantha Harris hadn't "outed" her. Julianne also revealed that should Cody Linley make it to next week, Edyta Sliwinska will be his partner. Julianne seemed to suggest that she might be back by the following week, but that seem's slightly unrealistic after a major surgery like and appendectomy.

Get better soon, Julianne! We'll miss you!

Zac Efron Heads to Hawaii -- And Promptly Goes Shirtless!

Zac Efron + Vanessa Hudgens + Hawaii = Shirtless photos!!

The High School Musical stars headed back to Hawaii, their favorite vacation spot, and Zac promptly removed his shirt, revealing a pair of Calvin Klein underwear and an impressive treasure trail.

You won't hear me complaining!!

Did you see HSM 3? What did you think?









Click here for more CUTE BOYS OF POP CULTURE

Barack Obama Comments on the Deaths of Jennifer Hudson's Mother and Brother

Even presidential hopeful Barack Obama has been moved by the tragedy that has befallen Jennifer Hudson, as her mother and brother were shot to death earlier this weekend, and her nephew is still missing. Hudson and Obama met earlier this year, when Obama specifically requested she sing the National Anthem at the Democratic National Convention. Obama, like Hudson, lives in Chicago, and had the following to say:

"Michelle and I were absolutely heartbroken to learn about this unimaginable tragedy and we want Jennifer to know that she is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. We also pray for the swift and safe return of her young nephew."

Fellow American Idol finalists have also responded to the events of the past few days. Fellow Season 3 finalists Diana Degarmo and Camile Velasco have spoken out with support of Hudson.

More to come...

Jennifer Hudson's Mother and Brother Found Dead

This is absolutely tragic -- Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson's mother, 57-year-old Darnell Donnerson, and older brother Jason were found dead today in Chicago. The two had been shot. Various reports say that Hudson's nephew is still missing. Jennifer is currently on a plane home to Chicago to be with her family.

Please keep Jennifer in your thoughts.

Updates to come...

Watch Video of Tina Fey and Will Ferrell as Sarah Palin and George W. Bush on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE

Tina Fey and Will Ferrell as Sarah Palin and George Bush? It doesn't get much better than that.

The two stars returned to the Thursday edition of Saturday Night Live, and the results are pure genius. Watch the video below -- and prepare to laugh.

Ron Rifkin and John Glover to Reunite as Boyfriends on BROTHERS AND SISTERS

EW's Michael Ausiello announced another big Brothers and Sisters casting scoop -- Smallville's Lex Luther, John Glover, will play Saul's new boyfriend.

This marks a reunion of sorts for Ron Rifkin, the actor who plays Saul, and Glover -- the two played former lovers in Jon Robin Baitz' play Paris Letter. Baitz, of course, is a creator of Brothers and Sisters.

Glover has appeared on the Great White Way in The Drowsy Chaperone, Love! Valour! Compassion (for which he received a Tony Award) and much more.

Saul and Glover's character, Andrew, meet at the symphony. Where the romance will lead is anyone's guess. Andrew will be around for at least three episodes.

READ: Luke Grimes Will Play Ryan, the Long Lost Walker Sibling, on BROTHERS AND SISTERS

Julianne Hough Rushed to the Hospital Following DANCING WITH THE STARS

TMZ is reporting that Julianne Hough was rushed to the hospital following tonight's Dancing with the Stars results show. She is said to have been suffering from severe stomach pains. Apparently she was complaining of discomfort all day, but after her encore performance with Cody Linley it became "unbearable."

Julianne is only the latest Dancing competitor to make a trip to the hospital. Misty May Treanor had to drop out of the competition after tearing her ACL, Derek Hough passed out after falling in rehearsal, and Jeffrey Ross scratched his cornea during the first week of competition. Susan Lucci and Toni Braxton have also experienced injuries.

Let's hope Julianne (who I absolutely adore) does not have appendicities, which would likely sideline her from the competition.

More to come...

READ: Are the DANCING WITH THE STARS Producers Losing Their Way?

READ: Lance Bass' DANCING WITH THE STARS Problem: Lacey Schwimmer Is Sabotaging His Chances!

BOLD PREDICTION: Warren Sapp and Kim Johnson Will Win DANCING WITH THE STARS

PHOTO: Dancing with the Candidates: Barack Obama and Sarah Palin Cha Cha Cha

Watch the OFFICIAL TRAILER For 17 AGAIN, Starring Zac Efron and Matthew Perry

The trailer was released today for 17 Again, starring Zac Efron and Matthew Perry. While it screams "Big knock-off," (Perry nearly dies but instead wakes up at age 17...in Zac Efron's body), it actually looks pretty damn good.

(And no, that's not just because Zac looks pretty damn good. Though that helps.)

Check it out and let me know what you think.



READ: Zac Efron to Star in PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN 4?

READ: BOLD PREDICTION: Zac Efron Will Receive a Golden Globe Nomination for HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3

Have the DANCING WITH THE STARS Producers Lost Their Way?

I love Dancing with the Stars -- I simply can't get enough of the cheesy joys B (or C or D)-List celebrities ballroom dancing brings to me. I've falled in love with Apolo Anton Ono and Mel B and Helio Castroneves. And after all these years, I have deep affection for Julianne and Derek Hough, Tony Dobolani, and even Cheryl Burke.

But, as we bid adieu to Toni Braxton at the midway point of the season, something is leading me to believe the producers of the show are starting to lose their way. It's not the contestants -- they are as entertaining as ever. The shift that is happening is subtle now, but if it continues heading in this direction, I will start to doubt the potential longevity of the show.

Let me explain...

First of all, this season the show seems to want to think it is So You Think You Can Dance. Don't get me wrong -- So You Think You Can Dance is probably my very favorite reality show. However, Dancing with the Stars is no SYTYCD, and shouldn't try to be. It's got it's own charms. But this year alone we have former finalist Lacey Schwimmer as a professional (not really fair, when you think about it, since she's recently been on a reality show that required people to vote for her -- as famous, say, as Kim Khardashian or Cody Linley. We've also had Anya and Pasha choreograph a routine, and former SYTYCD choreographers Dave Scott and Brian Friedman appearing in a taped segment.

And now comes word that next week the contestants will be asked to do a group old school hip-hop routine. Huh? This is absurd -- the show is about ballroom dancing. What's next -- a contemporary routine choreographed by Mia Michaels? (Though that doesn't really sound that bad...)

Reading this back I can see that I sound like an old codger, but I like my Dancing with the Stars pure -- sue me. A bit of edginess is surely welcome, but embracing hip-hop just seems antithetical to the point of the show (not to mention of having ballroom professionals as dance partners and judges).

Speaking of judges -- Michael Flatley to replace Len Goodman for a week? Um...would America stand for Tommy Mottola sitting in for Simon Cowell? I don't think so! And why have Michael Flatley on a week where they are doing hip-hop? Why not get Jamie King, or if they are really going to dig into the SYTYCD bag, Wade Robson?

Which brings me to my last point -- tonight's "biggest performance ever"!. I mean...my high school did that same production number. Yawn! Cliche! And after all that build-up? Of course, only 5 minutes was dedicated to actual results -- a regular occurrence on these results show. (Don't even get me started for when my Tivo cuts it off before the results have been announced.)

I'm a little angry -- I'll admit it. But take this post as a message to the producers, with love from a fan. Do me right.

READ: BOLD PREDICTION: Warren Sapp and Kim Johnson Will Win Dancing with the Stars

READ: Lance Bass' Dancing with the Stars Problem: Lacey Schwimmer Is Sabotaging His Chances!

Photo: Dancing with the Candidates: Barack Obama and Sarah Palin Cha Cha Cha

Dancing with the Candidates: Barack Obama and Sarah Palin Cha Cha Cha

Thanks to my pal Kathy for sending this picture of Barack Obama and Sarah Palin doing the cha cha to me -- it made laugh out loud!

Lance Bass's DANCING WITH THE STARS PROBLEM: Lacey Is Sabotaging His Chances!

When it was first announced that So You Think You Can Dance finalist Lacey Schwimmer would be partnering Lance Bass on this season of Dancing with the Stars, I couldn't have been more excited. I loved Lacey on SYTYCD, and I've (embarrassingly) been an 'nsync fan since back in the day, so this partnership seemed like heaven to me.

But -- there's a problem. And the problem is not Lance, who has been charmingly low-key, and displayed considerable talent, since the show began.

No, the problem is Lacey -- namely, that she thinks she is the star.

In some ways I can't blame her -- she's a world-class swing dancing champion, and her final four appearance on SYTYCD gave her plenty of opportunities to hone her "look at me!" skills. That's always been her thing -- SYTYCD fans will remember that when she danced with Kameron, he totally faded into the background, while she hogged the spotlight.

The trouble is that she hasn't been able to switch gears, and highlight her partner instead of herself. All of her choreography seems only minimally focused on showcasing Lance, and primarily focused on showcasing Lacey. That's not the way the show works.

Watch, for example, Julianne Hough and Cheryl Burke, two very talented dancers who simultaneously manage to look great themselves, while also putting their partners front and center. This is a skill that Lacey has yet to acquire.

You might think being scolded by the judges in front of 20 million people might be enough to humble her, but throughout the rest of last night's performance show she aped and mugged (particularly when Cloris Leachman was being interviewed by the unbearable Samantha Harris). Someone has got to get it through to Lacey -- this show is not about her!

If she doesn't get the message, she could find herself booted very soon. And that would be a damn shame.

Showtime Renews DEXTER For Two Additional Seasons!

Showtime announced today that it is renewing it's hit show Dexter for a fourth and fifth season.

Maybe it's time I started watching...

Here's the press release:

SHOWTIME has ordered two more seasons of its award-winning top-rated drama series DEXTER, starring Emmy®- and Golden Globe®-nominated actor Michael C. Hall (“Six Feet Under”), it was announced today by Robert Greenblatt, Showtime President of Entertainment. The Best Drama Series Emmy®-nominated DEXTER premiered its third season three weeks ago to widespread critical and audience acclaim plus record ratings as it surpassed 3 million viewers in its premiere week and ranks as SHOWTIME’s top-rated drama series. Seasons four and five will consist of 12 episodes each, with production on season four set to begin next spring in Los Angeles.

"DEXTER's enormous success is a tribute to the great achievements of its cast, the producing team, the author of the original book, and the gifted Michael C. Hall,” said Greenblatt. “I thought at best we would attract a devoted cult audience but soon realized that, ironically, this show is so thematically rich and layered with humanity that audiences of all kinds have flocked to it."

BOLD PREDICTION: Warren Sapp and Kim Johnson Will Win DANCING WITH THE STARS

The headline pretty much says it all...I am boldly going on record as saying I think Warren Sapp and Kim Johnson will win Dancing with the Stars.

What, you say? He wasn't even in tonight's Top 3, and Brooke Burke has this competition all wrapped up?

A fair point. To this I'll argue, we're only halfway through -- and Warren's got charm to last another 6 months on this show, if necessary. On top of that, he's consistent -- aside from a slight misstep last week, he's performed strong week after week. And consider this -- the show's last four winners were athletes (Kristi Yamaguchi, Helio Castroneves, Apolo Anton Ono and Emmitt Smith). It's easy to imagine Warren in that company.

As for the Brooke Burke factor, the sheen is bound to wear off of her admittedly beautiful facade. Beyond that, though, pretty girls rarely do well in this competition, even when they are good dancers. Consider Stacey Kiebler (who was coincidentally in the audience tonight), who was probably Season 2's best dancer. She came in 3rd.

See, when it comes down to it, America wants to reward the most likable candidate. Sure, it helps if they can dance, and sometimes it even wins them the competition (a la Yamaguchi). But this season, I'm thinking lovable teddy bear Warren will come out on top.

Agree? Disagree? Let me know.

Read my last BOLD PREDICTION: Zac Efron Will Be Nominated for a Golden Globe Award for High School Musical 3

Luke Grimes Will Play Ryan, the Long Lost Sibling on BROTHERS AND SISTERS

The search is over -- Ryan has been found!

Ending months of speculation, Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello reported today that actor Luke Grimes will play the long-lost Walker sibling on ABC's Brothers and Sisters. Friday Night Lights star Scott Porter, The Class star Jason Ritter, and Everwood actor Gregory Smith had also been mentioned for the role.

Grimes' credits include Assasination of a High School President, War Eagle, Arkansas, All the Boys Love Mandy Lane and the upcoming Shit Year. Yeah -- he's not exactly a two-time Oscar winner like Sally Field.

Ryan is expected to rear his (not-so-ugly) head in the Walker's life around Thanksgiving time.

Thoughts?

John McCain Attempted Suicide in 1968, May Be Covering Up Seriousness of Melanoma, New York Times Reports

A fascinating article in the New York Times brought to light many of the things we know, and don't know, about the health of the four major candidates for public office. Among the things the article discusses are the previous revelation that in 1968, eight months after he was captured by the North Vietnamese, John McCain attempted suicide, trying to hang himself with his shirt. There is also serious debate, and confusion, over how serious McCain's multiple melanomas were, and what that means for his longterm survival.

These questions, of course, are extremely relevant, especially because Sarah Palin is the vice-presidential nominee. And her health? No one knows. Yep, she's a candidate for vice president and she hasn't released one iota of health records. Nice.

Not like Obama is much better -- he, apparently, released a one-page letter from his physician that says he is in "excellent" health. And Biden? He had an aneurysm 20 years ago, and hasn't mentioned how recent tests have gone.

Makes you feel good, doesn't it? And makes Sarah Palin's appearance on SNL a little less funny and a little more scary, eh?

Click here to read the full New York Times artilce

Zac Effron to Star in PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN 4?

The internet is running rampant with rumors that High School Musical star Zac Efron (who I boldly predicted would receive a Golden Globe Award nomination for his role in the film) will star in Pirates of the Caribbean 4 alongside Johnny Depp.

According to "sources" (who these sources are, I have no idea), Efron has been offered $10 million dollars for the role. That's a whole lot of money.

Now, before you dismiss this rumor as similar to the one that he would take over for Daniel Radcliffe on Broadway in Equus (and thus take off his clothes onstage), which he has since denied, this one could have some merit. It is Disney, after all, who produces both HSM and Pirates. They do like to keep things in the family, and Efron has proven to be a valuable investment thus far.

Zac has filmed two movies in addition to the HSM trilogy -- 17 Again opposite Matthew Perry, and Me and Orson Welles with Claire Danes.

Stay tuned for more info...

Ryan Phillipe -- Farm Boy? I Like It!

Ryan Phillipe is the gift that keeps on giving. Case in point -- this photo shoot, where he is dressed as a farm boy. (Okay, it's a pretty glam farm boy, but still).

Enjoy!

VIDEO: The Real Sarah Palin on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE (with Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin!)

The real Sarah Palin showed up on SNL this weekend, alongside her doppleganger Tina Fey and Fey's Thirty Rock co-star Alec Baldwin (Mark Wahlberg showed up as well for good measure). I'm not sure why Palin agreed to do this -- these sketches are brutal, and I can't imagine this appearance will help convince anyone she is actually qualified for the position she has been nominated for. Still...they are pretty funny!

There's a press conference and a rap...oh my!

BOLD PREDICTION: Zac Efron Will Receive a Golden Globe Award Nomination for HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3: SENIOR YEAR

Every so often a ridiculous thought enters my head, and instead of publishing it for the world to read (and ridicule), I simply put it out of my mind.

Well -- that's coming to an end.

From now on, when I have those craaaaaaazy ideas, I'm going to put them here at Idol Thoughts under the category of BOLD PREDICTION. These will be things that will come true or not, so once my BOLD PREDICTION has been confirmed or been proven ridiculous, I'll be able to return to the post and either tout my brilliance or lacerate myself.

Sounds fun -- right?

As my first BOLD PREDICTION I'm going to say that Zac Efron, that iconic teen heartthrob, will grab a Golden Globe Award nomination for his performance in High School Musical: Senior Year. He's been getting great reviews so far (Variety said he was "most likely to suceed," and the Hollywood Reporter says he has charisma to spare), and, of course, the Golden Globes has the category of "Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy," so the blue-eyed cutie won't have to compete against big guns like Leonardo Dicaprio (Revolutionary Road), Sean Penn (Milk) and Philip Seymour Hoffman (Doubt). If he does snag a nod, however, he will likely go up against Brad Pitt in Burn After Reading, leading to a pretty boy battle of the ages.

Does this mean Zac could end up an Academy Award nominee? Um...no. But if my first BOLD PREDICTION comes true, he will walk the red carpet for the Hollywood Foreign Press.

You heard it here first. Now feel free to riducule away...

VIDEO: Madonna Calls Guy Ritchie "Emotionally Retarded" Before Singing "Miles Away"

By now you've surely heard that Madonna called soon-to-be ex-husband Guy Ritchie "emotionally retarded" before singing her song "Miles Away" at a concert in Boston. Now's your chance to watch the video of Madonna uttering these now infamous words.

PS. Is there anyone else who can't wait to see what Madge is going to be like as a single woman again? I can't wait!

VIDEO: Watch Colin Powell Endorse Barack Obama on MEET THE PRESS

Colin Powell knows where it's at!

Watch former George Bush adviser Colin Powell endorse the Democratic nominee for president, Barack Obama, on this morning's Meet the Press. Love it!

POLL -- Whose CD Are You Most Looking Forward To: David Cook or David Archuleta?

Their American Idol battle ended about 5 months ago, but in the coming weeks David Cook and David Archuleta will duke it out again, this time for supremacy in the arena of record sales. Archuleta already has a successful single out ("Crush"), while Cook's "Light On" is quickly ascending the charts.

Here's the question -- whose CD are YOU most excited about? Take the poll below and let me know!

Online Surveys & Market Research

SURVIVOR's Marcus Totally Kissed Charlie Tonight -- Exclusive Photographic Evidence

Are Marcus and Charlie from Survivor hooking up?

Up until now it seemed like Charlie, who is gay, was the one who had the crush, but on tight's episode Marcus (whose penis infamously slipped out of his boxers on the season premiere) kissed/bit Charlie on the shoulder!! It happened in a split second, and if you sneezed you probably missed it -- but it happened!!

Don't believe me? Check out the photos below!

(Ok, it might be possible he was eating a piece of residual fruit from the reward challenge, but it looked mighty intimate to me...)

UPDATE: Here's the video of the love bite/kiss. It's at about 5:00 into the clip.

Here's My Question About People Who Quit On Survivor...

Here's my question about people who quit on Survivor to "go home to their family":

Don't these people know that they don't actually get to leave the game and just get on a plane? Even if you don't make it to the jury, eliminated contesants can't simply return home, as that would easily tip-off the fact that they didn't go far in the game. Instead, the first several weeks worth of eliminated contestants usually go on some sort of trip.

This question is relevant, of course, because GC became just the latest Survivor quitter. I can't imagine how horrible it must be out there, but still -- you must have known what you were getting into. Does anyone really try out for a show like this, and suspend their life for 6 weeks to live in the jungle, without doing a bit of research? And to make it 15 days into the game and then quit is just annoying -- either quit in the first few days, or suck it up and make it until you're voted off.

Truth is -- coming into the game you only have about 15% chance of making it to the Final 3 anyways!

CONFIRMED: Madonna and Guy Ritchie to Divorce!

Madonna's publicist, Liz Rosenberg, confirmed that she and Guy Ritchie will divorce after 7½ years of marriage.

Here is the statement:

"Madonna and Guy Ritchie have agreed to divorce after seven-and-a-half years of marriage, their representatives confirmed today. They have both requested that the media maintain respect for their family at this difficult time."

Apparently they have not agreed to a settlement.

This is gonna get nasty!!

Watch Britney Spears' New Video for 'Womanizer'! She's Naked -- And Hot!

Britney's back, bitches.

The video for Britney Spears' new single "Womanizer" is out -- and it's hot! She's naked throughout, and, better than that, she's actually present in the eyes! Watch it below and let me know what you think.

Zac Efron To Replace Daniel Radcliffe in EQUUS?

Click here for NEW PHOTOS of Zac shirtless on the set of his new film -- no underwear?

Apparently Zac Efron is thinking about getting naked -- on Broadway!

At the premiere of High School Musical 3 in London he told the Sun that he was potentially interested in the part. The exact quote: "You know that Daniel Radcliffe role on Broadway, well it's been mentioned.”

Think he's got the chops? One thing is for sure -- if Zac got nude, the girls (and boys!) would certainly show up! It would certainly be an interesting career move -- it's sure helped Daniel Radcliffe shed his Harry Potter image!

Speaking of Daniel, I saw him in the role of Alan Strang last week, and he was AMAZING! I was totally impressed -- not just with his body, but with his acting. The boy has definitely got a future!

VIDEO: Katie Holmes Singing and Dancing on ELI STONE

Katie Holmes, now appearing on Broadway in All My Sons, sings and dances on an upcoming episode of ABC's Eli Stone. Check out the video below!



Remember when Katie sang "On My Own" from Les Mis on Dawson's Creek? Classic!

Sarah Palin's Report Card and SAT Scores -- Ouch!

Take the image above with a grain of salt (and click to enlarge), but it claims to show Sarah Palin's high school report card and SAT scores. Let's just say she's not the best student in the world.

Here’s the breakdown of her SAT score: 425 verbal, 416 math. That's less than 900 combined! Ouch!

Palin’s high school grades read: English = B, Math = C, Foreign Language = D (!!), Biological Sciences = B, Physical Sciences = C and Social Studies = C. Yeah -- not so bright.

But hey, we all know intelligence doesn't preclude you from holding pubic office -- we've got George Bush in the White House, for god's sake!

What do you think -- is it real?

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE's Kherington Payne Cast in New FAME Movie

They are on Dancing with the Stars (Lacey Schwimmer) and on stage in New York (Neil Haskell), but now a So You Think You Can Dance star is hitting the big screen!

Kherington Payne, who made it to the Top 10 of this past season of SYTYCD, has been cast in the remake of Fame. She will play a ballerina named Alice in the film. According to the Hollywood Reporter, the films will also include Kristy Flores, Paul Iacono, Paul McGill (A Chorus Line), Naturi Naughton, Kay Panabaker, Collins Pennie, Walter Perez and Anna Maria Perez.

Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles star Thomas Dekker is in talks to play Marco, a singer, and Debbie Allen, who played Lydia in the original Alan Parker film, may have a cameo in the remake. The adult roles have yet to be cast.

Choreographer Kevin Tancharoen will direct the remake of "Fame," which was penned by Allison Burnett and Aline Brosh McKenna. Lakeshore Entertainment's Gary Lucchesi and Tom Rosenberg are producing with Mark Canton.

The film will "track the failures and fortunes of super-ambitious young performers and their teachers as they navigate a school year at the prestigious High School for the Performing Arts in New York."

Can't wait!

When Did Jordan Knight Get So Hot Again?

No doubt Jordan Knight was my favorite New Kid on the Block back in the day, but in recent years, as he's gotten a little, shall we say, bigger, Joey McIntyre has emerged as my favorite.

Well -- according to the video below, Jordan has DEFINITELY gotten his figure back. The boy is smokin'! Check it out, and let me know what you think.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE CUTE BOYS OF POP CULTURE

Listen to Leaked HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3 Songs From Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens

Here ya go... leaked tracks "Scream" by Zac Efron and "Walk Away" by Vanessa Hudgens, from the new High School Musical 3 soundtrack. Listen below and let me know what you think.

VIDEO: McCain Loses It, Calls Rally Attendees "My Fellow Prisoners"

As if he didn't come off last night in the debate as a crotchety old man, John McCain had a definite "senior moment" today, calling attendees at a campaign rally "my fellow prisoners." Watching the video below, you can clearly see that he meant "my fellow Americans" or "my fellow countrymen" or something like that. Whoops!

Hysterical Video of HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER's Neil Patrick Harris and Jason Segel Making Out!

I'm not a big sitcom guy, but How I Met Your Mother cracks me up! This video, featuring a lingering kiss between stars Neil Patrick Harris and Jason Segel, is hysterical -- check it out!

RUMOR: Sarah Palin Will Appear On SNL...As Tina Fey!

According to the Chicago Sun Times, vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin is considering an appearance on Saturday Night Live -- playing Tina Fey!

According to the paper, "Some key McCain staffers are content with Palin joking about the "SNL" routines on the campaign trail -- as when she scribbled "I'm not Tina Fey" on a supporter's cell phone and said she'd dressed as Fey on Halloween. But others -- including the governor herself -- think a return punch on the NBC airwaves is what's needed."

Apparently the Palin appearance may parody Fey's American Express commercials. Next weekend's Saturday Night Live will be a rerun, but it is possible Palin could appear Thursday on the first of NBC's ''Weekend Update'' specials in prime time.

Can't wait!

THE OC's Benjamin McKenzie Dressed Like a Cop for New Series LAPD

He's not in The OC anymore!

Check out these pics of Benjamin McKenzie dressed in uniform for his role in the pilot LAPD.

Welcome to the police force, bitch!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE CUTE BOYS OF POP CULTURE

Misty Mae and Maks Out of DANCING WITH THE STARS; Derek Hough Rushed to the Hospital

Drama at Dancing with the Stars!

Misty May Traenor injured her ankle (some reports have it broken, others just badly bruised) that has caused her and partner Maksim out of the competition. Maks, we'll miss you!

Rumor has it that Kim Khardashian (nooooooooo!) will return to the show to take Misty May's place.

Meanwhile, Access Hollywood is reporting that Derek Hough suffered a fall over the weekend and briefly blacked out, requiring him to be rushed to the emergency room. According to a spokesperson for the show, he was released from the hospital and will be fine for tonight's show.

What do you think of all these developments? And how are all the young bucks getting injured while Cloris Leachman flies through??

Is DANCING WITH THE STARS' Cheryl Burke Pregnant...Or Just Fat?

I was watching Dancing with the Stars with a friend last night, and he asked me, "Who is that fat girl in the corner?" My answer -- "Two-time champion Cheryl Burke."

Ouch.

Cheryl, who along with fellow pro Edyta basically invented the barely-there Dancing costume, has been conspicuously covered up this season (her dress in last night's rumba had more fabric than five of her dresses last season combined!). Additionally, she has definitely been displaying a little more poundage, both in the body and the face. Here are my theories as to her weight gain:

1. She's pregnant. Seems slighly implausible, as dancing the way she does couldn't possibly be good for a fetus, but hey, anything is possible.

2. Five seasons without a trip to the finals is taking it's toll, and she's fighting with fellow pro Lacey Schwimmer (read post ARE CHERYL BURKE AND JULIANNE HOUGH SNUBBING LACEY SCHWIMMER?). The result? She's "eating her feelings."

Anyone else got a plausible explanation? Sound off below.

VIDEO: SNL Spoofs Vice-Presidential Debate (With Tina Fey as Sarah Palin, Of Course!)

You knew it was coming...

Here's Saturday Night Live's spoof of the VP debate between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin, with Tina Fey reprising what is quickly becoming her signature role.

Enjoy!

Jonas Brothers Show Off Their Asses In Tight Pants

They may wear promise rings, but that doesn't mean we can't admire their butts!

Nick, Joe and Kevin Jonas performed recently on Good Morning America, and their pants were so tight, you could definitely see what they had going on underneath! Enjoy the pics! (Click to enlarge)

Senate Passes $700 Billion Bailout Plan

Good news?

Per the New York Times...

The Senate strongly endorsed the $700 billion economic bailout plan Wednesday, leaving backers optimistic that the easy approval, coupled with an array of popular additions, would lead to House acceptance by Friday and end the legislative uncertainty that has rocked the markets.

Click here to read the full article

VIDEO: THE VIEW Talks About Sarah Palin -- Genius!

Gotta love those ladies on The View! Check out this video, where Joy Behar, Barbara Walters, Whoopi Goldberg, Sherri Shephard, and Elisabeth Hasselback discuss Sarah Palin's interview with Katie Couric.

Here's the heart of the fight (with the full discussion below):



Skip to around 1:45 when the discussion starts, but it's around 6:30 when the claws definitely come out!

Britney Spears Visits Broadway's "In The Heights"

Britney Spears checked out the Broadway hit In The Heights last night, and she actually stayed for the whole show! Below are some photos of Britney with the cast.

VIDEO: Sarah Palin Doesn't Know What News Sources She Reads!

"Sweat is my sanity." -Sarah Palin

This woman is the gift that keeps on giving! Check out this new interview between vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin and Katie Couric, in which she's unable to name the newspapers she reads to get her news. She also claims the causes of global warning are "irrelevant."

Brilliant!

DANCING WITH THE STARS Elimination Prediction: Kim Khardashian and Rocco Dispirito Are In Trouble

Read: IS CHERYL BURKE PREGNANT...OR JUST FAT?

Another week of Dancing with the Stars, another elimination prediction.

Warren Sapp and Kym Johnson stole the show for me last night with their totally entertaining Matrix inspired routine -- he is so unbelievably charming, I find it hard to believe he won't cruise into at least the Final Four. (And if he does start to sink he can use Kym's enormous breasts as a flotation device!) Though Len Goodman clearly has something against Lance Bass and Lacey Schwimmer, I found their performance energetic and exciting, so I'm guessing they won't face any trouble either. Ditto Cloris Leachman, who likely has a couple weeks left in her. Meanwhile Derek Hough and Brooke Burke, as well as Toni Braxton and Alec Mazo, probably earned high enough scores from the judges to keep them out of the danger zone.

Maks and Misty Mae are fan-favorites, as are Julianne Hough and Cody Linley, so they, too, should be spared the wrath of the red light.

That leaves Rocco Dispirito and Karinna Smirnoff, Kim Khardashian and Mark Ballas, Susan Lucci and Tony Dovolani, and Cheryl Burke and Maurice Green , all of whom could get the boot tonight. My money is on Kim and Mark -- the judges clearly hate the vacant reality star, and I have a feeling the viewers share that sentiment. If somehow the big-booty wonder is spared, expect Rocco to be sent packin -- he may make a mean meatball, but his rumba was downright embarrassing!

Who do you think will go home tonight? Sound off below!

Read: IS CHERYL BURKE PREGNANT...OR JUST FAT?

New SNL Video: Tina Fey as Sarah Palin and Amy Poehler as Katie Couric

The genuis that is Tina Fey has no limits!

The Emmy Award winner returned to Saturday Night Live this weekend to recreate her uncanny impression of vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin during her now-classic interview with Katie Couric (brilliantly essayed by Amy Poehler). Watch the video below.

And if you haven't seen the real thing, it is truly a must-see. Click here to watch.

THE FANTASTICK's Nick Spangler and Sister Win First Place on Round 1 of THE AMAZING RACE

His day (or night) job is singing and dancing in The Fantasticks Off-Broadway, but Nick Spangler is moonlighting this season with his sister Starr on The Amazing Race. Tonight he showed he can do more than belt out a showtune -- he and sister came in first place!

The two started quickly out of the gate (the startpoint this season was Los Angeles), but missed a key turn on the way to the airport that looked like it was going to find them in trouble. Thanks to the ineptitude of some of their fellow racers they were able to cruise onto the first flight to Santiago, Brazil, and didn't look back from there.

Along the way they've tried to befriend scary former NFL'er and Footballer's Wife wannabe Ken and Trina. He cheated on her and is "trying every day to win her back." Gag me. How long until Nick and Starr regret this "two-round alliance"?

Unfortunately the first eliminated couple on this season's show were adorable hippie beekeepers Anita and Arthur. Let's face it -- they didn't stand a chance.

As for the other competitors, none were immediately memorable -- lots of "dating" couples, and pretty girls who are southern or just-divorced -- you know, the usual. Attention must be paid, however, to Mark and Bill, the "comic book geeks," and the Seth Rogen/Jonah Hill look-a-like frat boys, who one of the contestants called Superbad. Genius.

Episode one -- I'm hooked. Can't wait 'til next week.

Rafael Nadal Exposed His Famous Butt -- Naked!

We've all seen it and talked about it, and we've seen him pickin' at it -- and now here it is in all it's glory!

Rafael Nadal was caught with his pants down, literally, showing off his nude butt!

CLICK HERE FOR NSFW NAKED PHOTOS OF RAFAEL NADAL

When Did SURVIVOR Become the Jeff Probst Show?

There were a lot of people surprised that the first-ever Best Reality Show Host prize at this year's Emmy Awards went to Survivor host Jeff Probst, but anyone who saw last night's season premiere of Survivor Gabon knows the kind of impact he's had on the show.

When the show debuted in 2000, Probst impartially oversaw the proceedings, explained the rules at challenges, and asked a few questions at tribal council. Over the years, his questions have become more and more probing, and he's let slip his feelings about some of the contestants and their behavior on the show.

Flash forward to 2008, and Jeff Probst is helping a tribe elect a leader, and giving them props for coming closer in a competition than they had in the one before ("Much better than the last challenge guys, you were right there.")

I don't believe it's a coincidence that Probst has been inserting himself further into the game -- he is now an executive producer on the show, and is part of the casting process. But is it appropriate for him to insert himself quite that much? He knows more about the game than anyone else -- if he uses his knowledge to help one tribe (ie helping them choose a leader), is it unfair to the other tribe? Or is this just part of the game?

Sound off below.

Katie Couric's Interview With Sarah Palin -- The Woman is an Idiot!

Sarah Palin once again proved that she has absolutely no idea what she's talking about in a new interview with Katie Couric. Check out the video below, and let me know what you think.


Watch CBS Videos Online

Quotes From Clay Aiken's "I'm Gay" Interview With People Magazine

People magazine has released some quotes from their cover story on Clay Aiken this week. In case you somehow missed it, Clay reveals in the story that he is gay.

Said Aiken: "It was the first decision I made as a father. I cannot raise a child to lie or to hide things. I wasn't raised that way, and I'm not going to raise a child to do that...[I hope my fans ] know that I've never intended to lie to anybody at all. ... But if they leave, I don't want them to leave hating me."

On coming out to his family: "The born-again Christian singer also reveals how he told his mother Faye he's gay four years ago. After dropping off his younger brother Brett, who was being deployed to Iraq, at Camp Lejeune, 'I started crying in the car,' Aiken remembers. 'It was dark. I was sitting there, thinking to myself. I don't know why I started thinking about it ... I just started bawling. She made me pull over the car and it just came out.' So what was his mom's reaction? 'She started crying. She was obviously somewhat stunned. But she was very supportive and very comforting.' Even now, Aiken admits, 'She still struggles with things quite a bit, but she's come a long way.'"

Said Aiken of his child: "I have no idea if he'll be gay or straight. It's not something I'll have anything to do with, or that he'll have anything to do with. It's already probably up inside the code there ... No matter what the situation you're in, if you're raised in a loving environment, that's the most important thing."

On his dating status: "I've got one man in my life right now and he's crying and he needs formula! And if Jaymes continues to date, she will, but she's not going to date anyone who doesn't understand this is the dynamic."

On his faith: ""I still consider myself a born-again Christian, and I am absolutely comfortable with that, and comfortable with my salvation."

Dancing with the Stars First Week Impressions: I Love Lance and Lacey!

The first two performance episodes of the new (and eagerly anticipated) season of Dancing with the Stars are now over and we've already lost one "celebrity" (see ya later Jeffrey Ross), which means it's just about time for me to give my impressions on the remaining dozen (one of whom will go home tonight).

Before I do that, however, I have to reiterate a theme that has recurred throughout the years I've been writing about this show..

I hate Samantha Harris!

Ok, I feel better now that I've gotten that out.

On to the contestants:

-Lance Bass and Lacey Schwimmer
Hands down my favorite couple of the season, though at this point it has very little to do with their dancing. I was a huge Lacey fan back on So You Think You Can Dance, where she came in 4th place, and Lance was both in 'nysnc and is the first openly gay contestant on the show. How can I not root for them? I'm a bit concerned for their longevity in the competition, however -- as much as I love Lacey, I'm not sure she's in tune with what the judges are looking for in these dances, and it could come back to bite them in the butt. Still -- for now, they've got my vote.

-Toni Braxton and Alec Mazo
Toni's sporting a crazy-eye thing that is buggin' me out a bit, but so far her moves have been pretty impressive. However -- does she have the stamina to keep up?

-Kim Khardashian and Mark Ballas
Aside from her, um, assets, I'm not quite sure what Kim is bringing to the dance floor -- except a hot partner! Unfortunately for Mark, however, I don't expect this couple to go much further than tonight.

-Cloris Leachman and Corky Ballas
I know, I know, she's charming and hysterical -- but I'm just not enjoying her shake her geriatric groove thing. Call me ageist, but I hope she gets shown the door right quick.

-Misty May Treanor and Maksim Chmerkovsky
Maks compared Misty's legs to Stacey Kiebler, which I think is giving the volleyballer a bit more credit than she currently deserves. Still, there's no way these two won't be around in the Final Four.

-Brooke Burke and Derek Hough
I was sure Brooke would perform like the other models on this show -- ie, stiffly and without personality. What a revelation she's been, executing both dances with style and passion. Keep an eye on these two.

-Cody Linley and Julianne Hough
Julianne can, of course, do no wrong, and Cody is adorable and clearly respectful of the competition. These two may just be a force to be reckoned with.

-Maurice Green and Cheryl Burke
While this couple has been solid thus far, and Cheryl's choreography is always entertaining, they are performing exactly as I would have expected a track and field star to perform. Will the lack of surprise do them in?

-Susan Lucci and Tony Dovolani
Susan -- eat a sandwich! I can't pay attention to your dancing because I'm too afraid you're going to break in half! And maybe lay of the plastic surgery a bit? Your face is lookin' a little rough.

-Ted McGinley and Inna Brayer
Ted is charming, and his dancing is not bad, but thus far he's a bit boring. He's going to have to show a bit more personality, and kiss up a little less, if he wants to go further in the competition.

-Warren Sapp and Kym Johnson
What a surprise this couple has turned out to be! Warren could not be more likable, and he flies around the dance floor in a way that seems completely antithetical to his size. I love 'em! (Though what did Kym do to her breasts??)

There they are -- my first impressions of the Dancing with the Stars Top 12. As I said above, I'm guessing either Kim Khardashian or Ted McGinley will get the boot tonight. Later this week I'll give my (very!) early thoughts on how I think the rest of the season will shake out.

OMG! Clay Aiken Comes Out of the Closet!

Not like this is a surprise to anyone with two eyes, but...

Clay Aiken is gay! And he's talking about it!

The American Idol runner-up is on the cover of People magazine this week, talking about his homosexuality.
"I cannot raise a child to lie or hide things," he is quoted as saying.

I love it!!

Keesha Wins the Vote for America's Favorite Big Brother 10 Juror

America's favorite Big Brother 10 juror is...

Keesha!

Huh? What? Who?

Renny -- I was expecting.
April, Libra, Michelle and Ollie -- not a chance in hell.
Jerry -- maybe, after last week's show, which was, admittedly, kinda heartbreaking.

But Keesha? Is it 'cause people are having Janelle nostalgia? (Trust me, I understand it -- I was obsessed with Janelle).

Truth is -- I kinda loved Keesha. Of course, like all good Big Brother houseguests, sometimes I loved to hate her and it weirded me out a bit that she reminded me so much of Daniele Donato, but ultimately I kinda loved her. I just loved Dan more.

So, good for Keesha and her $25K. But Renny -- you and I know you wuz robbed!

Dan Gives a Masterful, Jury Performance, Wins Big Brother 10

The winner of Big Brother 10 is...

Dan!

In what can best be described as "masterful," Dan said exactly the right things to win the jury over. The truly remarkable thing, however, is that he was pretty much telling the truth -- his lies weren't lies of vicious deception, they were lies of the game. The first evicted houseguest Brian said it best -- he never made the game personal. He wanted to win, and he did what he needed to. And he did it well. In fact, he did it brilliantly.

That he won 7-0 is kind of surprising, though -- even up until the end I thought April was going Memphis' way. Thing is, though, even though Dan was a formidable foe, Memphis really had nothing to say. He got as far as he did by staying out of the way and not making himself stand out as a physical threat. It's a skill, to be sure, but not one that can go up against the skiiiiiiiiillz that Dan displayed.

Kudos Dan, on a game well played.

READ: America's Favorite Juror Is...

BROADWAY ON BROADWAY Videos: Xanadu, Billy Elliot, In the Heights, [title of show]

Here are some user-made videos from the 2008 'Broadway on Broadway' concert, held this past Sunday. Enjoy!

XANADU
Featuring Cheyenne Jackson and Kerry Butler


BILLY ELLIOT


IN THE HEIGHTS
Featuring Mandy Gonzales and Christopher Jackson


[TITLE OF SHOW]

BIG BROTHER Jury: Will Libra Be the Deciding Vote?

It's all come down to this -- Memphis and Dan will battle it out in front of the jury tomorrow night in an effort to win the $500K grand prize on Big Brother 10.

Here's how I see the votes panning out:

Jerry -- Memphis
Keesha -- Dan
Renny -- Dan
Ollie -- Memphis
Michelle -- Dan
April -- Memphis

A couple of these are no-brainers -- Jerry will definitely go Memphis' way, as will April and Ollie, who have not gotten over their "betrayal" by Dan, while Keesha and Rennie are more than likely to choose Dan as the game's best player. I'm also guessing Michelle will have been won over by Dan's taking her on the trip to the private island, and the buttering up he is sure to do on tomorrow's finale.

Which leaves Libra. Oh Libra. While she lost her cool several times throughout the game, I'm guessing her final decision will actually be a rational one, and she'll choose the player who made more strategic moves over the one who glided under the radar.

Which means -- Libra will vote for Dan, and Dan will win Big Brother 10.

Agree? Disagree? Take the poll HERE and vote on who you think will be named the winner of Big Brother.

David Cook and Brother Andrew Sing The National Anthem At Kansas City Chiefs Game

American Idol winner David Cook joined forces with the brother that is responsible for him being on the show to sing the National Anthem at a Kansas City Chiefs game this past weekend.

Watch the video of the brothers harmonizing and let me know what you think!

Poll: Who Will Win BIG BROTHER 10?

Online Surveys & Market Research

Watch Video of Tina Fey Impersonating Sarah Palin on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE

Tina Fey is a comic genius! Watch a video of her performance as Sarah Palin (with Amy Poehler stellar as always as Hillary Clinton) on the September 13 episode of SNL and lemme know what you think!

PS. This is the official video clip from NBC.com, so, unlike the youtube video, it actually works!

Wade Robson, Kathy Griffin's MY LIFE ON THE D-LIST Win Emmy Awards

The 2007-2008 Creative Arts Emmy Awards were announced tonight, and So You Think You Can Dance choreographer Wade Robson picked up his second straight win in the category of Best Choreography for his work on "The Hummingbird and Flower/Chairman's Waltz." Wade beat out fellow SYTYCD choreographers Mandy Moore and Shane Sparks.

In other Emmy news, Kathy Griffin's My Life on the D-List (loveLovelove!) won it's second straight prize as well. I haven't yet heard if Kathy's speech is as scandalous as last year's infamous "Suck it Jesus" moment.

Cynthia Nixon, Kathryn Joosten, Tim Conway and Glynn Turman took home the Guest Actor and Actress prizes for Law and Order: SVU, Desperate Housewives, 30 Rock and In Treatment, respectively, while Sarah Silverman (and others) picked up the Emmy for their lyrics to "I'm Fucking Matt Damon" (genius).

All in all, John Adams took home 8 awards, followed by Mad Men with four. Dancing with the Stars grabbed two, while American Idol snagged one. In my mind the big one (reality show host) is going to come down to Tom Bergeron and Ryan Seacrest. My vote would go to Seacrest -- you?

For the full list of winners at the Creative Arts Emmys, click here.