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ACM Awards

Entertainer of the Year

      CARRIE UNDERWOOD


      ALBUM OF THE YEAR

      FEARLESS
      TAYLOR SWIFT (BIG MACHINE)
      PRODUCED BY: SCOTT BORCHETTA, NATHAN CHAPMAN, TAYLOR SWIFT


      Top Male Vocalist

      BRAD PAISLEY


      Top Female Vocalist

      CARRIE UNDERWOOD


      Top Vocal Group

      RASCAL FLATTS


      Top Vocal Duo

      SUGARLAND


      TOP NEW ARTIST

      JULIANNE HOUGH


      Top New Male Vocalist

      JAKE OWEN


      Top New Female Vocalist

      JULIANNE HOUGH


      Top New Vocal Duo or Group

      ZAC BROWN BAND


      Single Record of the Year (Award to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record
      Company)

      YOU'RE GONNA MISS THIS
      TRACE ADKINS, PRODUCED BY FRANK ROGERS
      CAPITOL NASHVILLE


      Song of the Year (Award to Composer(s)/Publisher(s)/Artist(s)

      IN COLOR
      JAMEY JOHNSON
      COMPOSERS:  JAMEY JOHNSON, LEE THOMAS MILLER, JAMES OTTO
      PUBLISHERS: BIG GASSED HITTIES (BMI), ELDOROTTO MUSIC PUBLISHING
      (BMI), EMI BLACKWOOD MUSIC, INC., LUCKY THUMB MUSIC (BMI), NEW SONG OF
      SEA GAYLE (BMI), NOAH'S LITTLE BOAT MUSIC (BMI)


      VIDEO OF THE YEAR (Award To Producer(s)/Director(s)/Artist(s))

      WAITIN' ON A WOMAN
      BRAD PAISLEY
      PRODUCER:  MARK KALBFELD, JIM SHEA
      DIRECTOR:  JIM SHEA, PETER TILDEN


      VOCAL EVENT OF THE YEAR (Award to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record
      Company)

      START A BAND
      BRAD PAISLEY DUET WITH KEITH URBAN
      PRODUCED BY: FRANK ROGERS
      ARISTA NASHVILLE


      CRYSTAL MILESTONE AWARD

      TAYLOR SWIFT
      JENNIFER NETTLES

      THE HOME DEPOT HUMANITARIAN AWARD

      LEANN RIMES



  FAST FACTS ON THIS YEAR'S AWARDS:



  --  This is Reba McEntire's eleventh year hosting the Academy of Country
      Music Awards.


  --  Carrie Underwood's win of Entertainer of the Year makes her the 7th
      female to take award in the 39 years of that awards history. Previous
      winners are Loretta Lynn (1975), Dolly Parton (1977), Barbara Mandrell
      (1980), Reba McEntire (1994), Shania Twain (1999) and Dixie Chicks
      (2000).


  --  Carrie Underwood is now eligible for the Triple Crown Award thanks to
      her wins for the categories of Entertainer of the Year, Top Female
      Vocalist and Top New Female Vocalist, which has been won by only one
      other female artist - Barbara Mandrell in 2004.


  --  Brad Paisley and Taylor Swift led the wins with three awards each.
      Brad Paisley won Top Male Vocalist, Video of the Year and Vocal Event
      of the Year. Taylor Swift won the Crystal Milestone Award and Album of
      the Year for which she earned two awards as artist and producer.


  --  Brad Paisley now holds a career total of 12 ACM Awards.


  --  This is the first time Jamey Johnson has won as an artist.  He
      previously won an Academy of Country Music Award in 2006 as a writer
      for Song of the Year for "Give It Away," which was recorded by George
      Strait.


  --  First-time nominee Julianne Hough won two awards including Top New
      Female Vocalist and Top New Artist - both chosen by her fans via
      online voting.
 

Valentino, The Last Emperor
The extraordinary premiere at LACMA and Gala at the Montage Hotel

Photo: Howard Pasamanick
Marjorie Beradino, LACMA Board, Edward Lozzi, Beverly Hills public relations exec.,
and Valentino at the Gala Premiere of Valentino, the Last Emperor Beverly Hills 4/1/2009

Photo: Acolyte Films
Valentino and a tribute to his famous red couture designs from the
documentary film Valentino, the Last Emperor , from Acolyte Films
http://www.valentinomovie.com/#home
http://www.lozzipr.com
 

Irby Mandrell passed away at 2 p.m. on March 5, 2009 in a Nashville hospital.

QUOTE FROM BARBARA MANDRELL REGARDING HER FATHER IRBY:

"Our family and some friends were standing around my daddy's bed at Baptist Hospital when he passed peacefully on to his heavenly home.  I'm speaking for all of my family, especially my sisters Louise and Irlene, when I say he was our hero and we will miss him always."--Barbara Mandrell.

Visitation will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home in Goodlettsville, Tennessee

3/7--Saturday visitation: 4 p.m.-6 p.m.

3/8--Sunday visitation: 2 p.m.-3 p.m.

More information will be passed along as it is received.

ANNOUNCING CMT CAMP NASHVILLE,^TM

COUNTRY MUSIC'S FIRST MULTI-ARTIST

FANTASY CAMP

Learn, Jam, Hang and Perform with Today's Country Stars

Phil Vassar, Lady Antebellum, Ronnie Milsap, John Rich, Darryl Worley, Andy Griggs, Bo Bice, Rhett Akins, Deana Carter, Jessica Harp and Henry Paul

Nashville, Tenn.--February 27, 2009--During a press conference yesterday, held at the Gibson Showroom in Nashville, Tennessee, CMT's Top 20 Countdown host Lance Smith revealed a rare opportunity for one hundred country music fans to live out their fantasy of being a country music star.  CMT Camp Nashville^TM, slated to take place in "Music City" May 21-25, 2009, is the first multi-artist country music fantasy camp of its kind.  Campers will experience five days of "red carpet treatment" in the role of a country star, complete with a stay at the trendy Hotel indigo, a full entourage of roadies, stylists, tour managers, access to top rehearsal halls, private recording studio sessions, songwriting classes, vocal coaching by world-renowned Renee Grant Williams (Dixie Chicks, Faith Hill, Keith Urban), backstage parties at Nashville Palace and Nashville Cowboy, gourmet meals served by Shoney's Catering and the unique exclusive opportunity to learn, jam, hang and perform with country music greats including Phil Vassar, Lady Antebellum, Ronnie Milsap, John Rich, Darryl Worley, Andy Griggs, Bo Bice, Rhett Akins, Deana Carter, Jessica Harp and Henry Paul.  The experience will culminate with a Final Showdown, where campers will perform as the opening act for Phil Vassar and Lady Antebellum at the world-famous Wildhorse Saloon.  One hundred campers can register on a first-come, first-service basis online at www.campnashville.com or by calling (615) 254-2315.

"This camp is not just for aspiring stars and those with talent.  It is about giving one hundred everyday, ordinary country fans a chance to experience their 'inner star.'  If all you can play is the cowbell, we invite you to attend and bring your bell," explained CMT's Lance Smith.

Campers will be featured on the CMT Camp Nashville^TM website, www.campnashville.com, which provides an online community for participants to share their "stardom" with the world through feature videos and blogs.  Content will also be carried on the Country Weekly website at www.countryweekly.com and on the CMT website at www.campnashville.cmt.com.

Sponsored by CMT, Country Weekly magazine, Hotel indigo, Gibson, Shoney's Catering, Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau, The Wildhorse Saloon, Nashville Palace and Nashville Cowboy, with product support from Vitamin Water, Flip Video and Rock Band, CMT Camp Nashville challenges everyone to "Country Star Yourself," and release your "inner-star." 

"One of the many fun features on the CMT Camp Nashville^TM website is a 'Country Star Generator.'  The generator with provide you with a country name and put your face right onto the body of a country star that you can share with friends.  It is a fun way to get the word out on the camp," said Bruce Stanley of redpepper, a strategic partner of the marketing and publicity team for CMT Camp Nashville. 

Founders of CMT Camp Nashville^TM, Joe Lambusta, Lee Bailey and Mick Dolan, made a surprise donation of $5,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee on behalf of CMT One Country.  Bob Jacobs, VP of Resource Development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee and Lucia Folk, Director of Public Affairs for CMT proudly accepted the check. 

Press conference guests were then treated to a "red carpet" experience of their own with an acoustic performance by Rhett Akins and Darryl Worley and lunch by Shoney's Catering. 

For more information, log onto www.campnashville.com or call (615) 254-2315.

About CMT:

CMT, a unit of Viacom's MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), is the leading television and digital authority on country music and entertainment, reaching more than 88 million homes in the U.S.  CMT and its website, CMT.com, offer an unparalleled mix of music, news, live concerts and series and is the top resource for country music on demand.  The network's digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT VOD. 

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom, is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 137 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

About CMT One Country:

CMT One Country, CMT's pro-social initiative, was launched in the fall of 2005 to promote civic participation and inspire CMT viewers to take action and bring about important change in their communities. CMT ONE COUNTRY partners include Feeding America (formerly America's Second Harvest), Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Habitat for Humanity, Hands On Network and the USO (United Service Organizations). Led by Advisory Board members President Jimmy Carter, Maya Angelou and General Colin Powell, whose combined service to America is legendary, CMTONECOUNTRY.com aims to offer tools to help anyone start making a difference immediately.

      Official film poster                                                                  Damian Chapa

 

 

Los Angeles- Controversial Producer Director Damian Chapa, who recently released Polanski Unauthorized, will begin filming the life story of Bobby Fischer entitled Bobby Fischer Live, this March. Bobby Fischer is considered to be the greatest chess player of all time. He beat the Russians during the Cold War. The Chess match was historical in bringing relations between the USA and Russia to a more calm and cordial state as well as elevating chess to a much more mainstream and "cooler" status.

After his win, Bobby Fischer became a recluse as a result of then President George Bush Sr., casting Bobby into exile for the reason of Bobby having a rematch which he won in Yugoslavia while sanctions existed against that country from America.

As a result, Fischer lost all of his rewards and could not return to his home in Brooklyn USA. In seclusion traveling abroad, Bobby developed anger against the USA and its policies and also began to spiral down into psychological torment where he developed a strange rant of terrorist-like hatred towards America and Israel- even becoming anti-semitic even though he himself was Jewish. 

Chapa will direct and star in the feature film that spans the entire life of one of the most controversial historic figures in the game of chess, and will be filmed in LA, NYC, Russia and Iceland. Filming begins mid-March 2009.

Polanski Unauthorized will be released in June by Terra Entertainment worldwide on DVD, and is playing at select theaters in Los Angeles, CA.

WWW.AMADEUSPICTURES.COM

WWW.BOBBYFISCHERLIVE.COM

May/June 2009
LA Opera Presents Giuseppe Verdi's
La Traviata
Sopranos Marina Poplavskaya and Elizabeth Futral to star as Violetta
Grant Gershon Conducts Production Directed by Marta Domingo

Original production and revival made possible by generous gifts from Malsi Doyle and Michael Forman. /

La Traviata will be performed in Italian, with English supertitles projected above the stage.
La Traviata is an original LA Opera production.

Rolex is the Official Timepiece of LA Opera.
Silversea is the Official Cruise Line of LA Opera.

PROFILES IN HISTORY AND AMERICAN CINEMATHEQUE AT THE EGYPTIAN THEATRE, HOLLYWOOD TO OFFER A SNEAK PEEK AT THE FORREST J ACKERMAN ESTATE AUCTION SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2009

Bela Lugosi's Dracula Ring, Cape, Costume From The Raven; Bram Stoker / Lugosi Signed First Edition Dracula Book and the "Maria" Robot and Fritz Lang's Monocle From Metropolis to be Displayed at Ackerman Tribute


Calabasas, CA, February 26, 2009 - Fans of the late legendary Horror and Sci-fi icon Forrest J (Forry) Ackerman (Please note: There is NO period after the "J") will have a chance to catch a glimpse at some of his most treasured items, as Profiles in History joins American Cinematheque at the Egyptian Theatre in their tribute to Ackerman on Sunday, March 8, 2009. Several major items will be on display during the tribute's opening reception, 3:00pm-4:00pm including the Dracula ring worn by Bela Lugosi as Count Dracula; Lugosi's robe from The Raven; a cape made for Lugosi in 1932 and used many times for his stage portrayal of Dracula as well as in Lugosi's performance in Plan 9 from Outer Space; a first edition of the book, Dracula signed by Bram Stoker and inscribed by Bela Lugosi to Forry Ackerman (also signed by a host of other Dracula-related personalities); the "Maria" robot from Metropolis and Fritz Lang's monocle, which he wore when he directed Metropolis and given to Forry by Lang.

These iconic pieces are just a few of the highlights of the 100's of items that make up the Forrest J Ackerman Estate Auction, which will be featured as part of the Profiles in History spring auction of Hollywood memorabilia set to take place April 30 and May 1, 2009. For more information about Profiles in History, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.profilesinhistory.com" www.profilesinhistory.com.

STATEMENT FROM SAG NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS — SAG NATIONAL BOARD REJECTS AMPTP LAST, BEST AND FINAL OFFER
 
Los Angeles, (February 21, 2009) – The Screen Actors Guild National Board of Directors today voted 73% to 27% to “reject the AMPTPs last, best and final offer dated February 19, 2009.”

We entered this round of negotiations sending an unmistakably clear message that we were ready to make a deal. In an effort to put the town back to work, our negotiator agreed to modify the Guild’s bargaining position to bring the Guild in line with the deals made by our sister unions.

The AMPTPs last-minute, surprise demand for a new term of agreement extending to 2012 is regressive and damaging and clearly signals the employers’ unwillingness to agree to the deal they established with other entertainment unions. The demand for a new term of agreement was not part of their final offer of June 30, 2008; it was not part of the federally mediated talks of November 2008, and should not have been inserted into the discussions when we returned to negotiations on February 17, 2009.

What management presented as a compromise is, in fact, an attempt to separate Screen Actors Guild from other industry unions.  By attempting to extend our contract expiration one year beyond the other entertainment unions, the AMPTP intends to deleverage our bargaining position from this point forward.

Screen Actors Guild’s goal is to successfully complete these negotiations and get the industry back to work as soon as possible.  The AMPTP has clearly stated their need and desire for financial certainty and industry peace.  This new proposal does the exact opposite, and will only result in constant negotiating cycles and continued labor unrest.

Costumes and Props From Academy Award(R)-Nominated Films: 'Frost/Nixon,' 'Milk' and 'Hellboy II' on Display at Universal Studios Hollywood's Attraction, 'The Universal Experience: Behind the Scenes of Universal Pictures,' Beginning February 17

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., - The costumes from Universal Pictures' multiple Oscar(R) nominated, "Frost/Nixon" and Focus Features' multiple Oscar nominated, "Milk" will be on display along with props from Universal Pictures' Oscar nominated, "Hellboy II: The Golden Army" at Universal Studios Hollywood's "The Universal Experience: Behind the Scenes of Universal Pictures," movie-themed attraction designed to put the magic of Hollywood within arms reach of guests, beginning February 17.
 

Items on exhibit from "Frost/Nixon" will include wardrobe worn by the film's Best Actor nominee, Frank Langella (Richard Nixon) and Michael Sheen (David Frost) from the movie's climatic interview scenes. "Frost/Nixon" earned five Academy Award(R) nominations including, Best Picture - Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, Eric Fellner, Best Director - Ron Howard, Best Actor - Frank Langella, Best Adapted Screenplay - Peter Morgan, and Best Film Editing - Mike Hill, Dan Hanley.
 

Sharing the Oscar spotlight at the attraction will be the vintage wardrobe donned by Best Actor nominee, Sean Penn in the Best Picture-nominated film, "Milk." "Milk" earned eight Oscar nominations that also include, Best Director - Gus Van Sant, Best Supporting Actor - Josh Brolin, Best Original Screenplay - Dustin Lance Black, Best Costume Design - Danny Glicker, Best Film Editing - Elliot Graham, Best Score - Danny Elfman.
 

Fans of Guillermo del Toro's "Hellboy II: The Golden Army," Oscar nominated for Best Makeup - Mike Elizalde, Thom Floutz, can preview an eclectic display of the original prosthetic masks and props and costumes featured in the film.
 

"The Universal Experience" showcases an extraordinary close-up view of many of the memorable items seen on film from Universal Pictures' award-winning movies, including some of the most celebrated movies in Hollywood history. The attraction draws from a library of over 6,000 titles dating back to the Studio's early beginnings in 1913 and offers a behind-the-scenes peek into the advances in film technology from the days of early motion pictures through modern day filmmaking.
 

Standing tall at the center of the attraction is the "Best Picture" Oscar(R) statuette from "The Sting," awarded to Universal Pictures in 1973. Other movie memorabilia include wardrobe worn by Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan from the blockbuster, "Mamma Mia!" and the miniature stop-motion animation set pieces and figures from the upcoming release, "Coraline," and showcased exclusively at "The Universal Experience."
 

"The Universal Experience" will be updated regularly with material from new movies and artifacts from the Studio's vast archives
 

Universal Studios Hollywood, The Entertainment Capital of L.A., includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour; the CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex; the Universal CityWalk Cinemas; and the Gibson Amphitheatre concert and special event venue. The theme park features such groundbreaking attractions as "The Simpsons Ride," "Revenge of the Mummy(TM) - The Ride," "Shrek 4-D(TM)," "Jurassic Park(R) - The Ride," and the world-renowned Studio Tour, which takes guests behind-the-scenes of such landmark TV and movie locations and sets as Steven Spielberg's "War of the Worlds."
 

Universal CityWalk features 65 entertainment-themed restaurants, nightclubs, shops and dynamic entertainment options. Universal CityWalk Cinemas, offering the best movie-going experience in Los Angeles, features 19 screens including one of Southern California's largest IMAX(R) venues and newly renovated stadium-style seating.
 

Universal Studios Hollywood (www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com) is a unit of Universal Parks & Resorts, a division of Universal Studios, a part of NBC Universal. NBC Universal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May of 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric (NYSE:GE) , with 20% controlled by Vivendi.

 

Source: Universal Studios Hollywood

Web Site: http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/
 

Winners! A Complete List From the 2009 Grammys

Nickelodeon Unfolds Luminous List of 2009 Kids' Choice Award Nominees

Jennifer Aniston, Beyonce, Jack Black, Chris Brown, Jim Carrey, Miranda Cosgrove, Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Anne Hathaway, Vanessa Hudgens, The Jonas Brothers, Alicia Keys, George Lopez, Michael Phelps, Rihanna, Adam Sandler, Will Smith, SpongeBob SquarePants, Ben Stiller, Reese Witherspoon, Nat Wolff, Tiger Woods and More Nab Top Nods

Nickelodeon's 22nd Annual Kids' Choice Awards Hosted by Dwayne Johnson Will Be Telecast Live, Saturday, March 28

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 6 -- Kid faves/superstars who've notched a spot among the A-list of nominees for coveted Kids' Choice Blimp trophies in Nickelodeon's 22nd Annual Kids' Choice Awards -- the kudo/mess-fest to be telecast live from UCLA's Pauley Pavilion Saturday, March 28 (8-9:30 p.m. ET/PT) -- include: Jennifer Aniston, Beyonce, Jack Black, Chris Brown, Jim Carrey, Miranda Cosgrove, Miley Cyrus, America Ferrera, Selena Gomez, Anne Hathaway, Vanessa Hudgens, The Jonas Brothers, Alicia Keys, George Lopez, Michael Phelps, Adam Sandler, Will Smith, Ben Stiller, Reese Witherspoon, Nat Wolff and Tiger Woods. And this year, when kids honor their favorites from the worlds of film, music, TV and sports -- and go green amid massive slime showers -- action star host, Dwayne Johnson, will rock at the helm.
 

Making the grade again with kids, five-time Kids' Choice winners/former slimees Jim Carrey, Adam Sandler and Will Smith all nabbed nominations for Favorite Movie Actor: Carrey for Yes Man, Sandler for Bedtime Stories and Smith for Hancock. In fact, dual nominee Carrey's up for Favorite Voice from an Animated Movie (Horton in Horton Hears a Who), too. First-timer George Lopez squares off against the trio of vets. Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jennifer Aniston got her seventh KCA nom with Marley & Me, and current Oscar nominee Anne Hathaway got her first, for Get Smart. Former KCA hosts Jack Black and Ben Stiller are back, this time with noms for Favorite Voice from an Animated Movie (respectively Po in Kung Fu Panda and Alex in Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa), and their flicks duke it out with the likes of Bolt and Wall-e. Meanwhile, The Dark Knight and Iron Man face Bedtime Stories and High School Musical 3: Senior Year for Favorite Movie.
 

Miley Cyrus, who took home two Blimps last year, not only picked up a pair of noms for Favorite Female Singer and Favorite Voice in an Animated Movie (Penny in Bolt), her Hannah Montana grabbed one for Favorite TV Show. Miranda Cosgrove clinched a nom for Favorite TV Actress, and her show, iCarly is up against the likes of Hannah, Zoey 101 and The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, whose stars Dylan and Cole Sprouse face each other, Nat Wolff and Jason Lee for Favorite TV Actor. Last year's Favorite Reality Show, American Idol, could take that title again, and five-time Favorite Cartoon SpongeBob SquarePants absorbed yet another nomination, and will square off again against former Blimp winning animated family The Simpsons.
 

Last year's Favorite Musical Group, The Jonas Brothers, are contenders in that category, competing against Linkin Park and KCA newcomers Pussycat Dolls and Daughtry. Beyonce, who grabbed a pair of Blimps in 2007 (Favorite Female Singer and Song) got dual noms (Single Ladies). She'll face off against former KCA winners Cyrus and Alicia Keys and Rihanna whose Don't Stop the Music also is nominated for Favorite Song. Chris Brown, who seized a Blimp last year, is up again for Favorite Male Singer.
 

Kids will be able to cast their vote online at http://www.nick.com/kca beginning Monday, March 2 in a total of 18 categories. Surprise awards also will be announced during the show. Kids also will be able to vote via the Nick mobile website (wap.nick.com). Beginning Monday-Friday, March 2-6, a different category will be featured on-air each day, and kids again vote for their favorite online at Nick.com.
 

Leading up to the award show, the Kids' Choice Awards site at Nick.com will feature video highlights from past awards shows and current promotions for Nickelodeon's 22nd Annual Kids' Choice Awards. Additional special features will include KCA video clips, games, quizzes, polls, games, printables, downloads, message boards and more.
 

On the night of the live show, the KCA site will serve as the interactive broadband home base and will give kids an insider's look at the entire live event. Coverage begins at 7 p.m. (ET) with an exclusive one-hour live pre-show webcast from the Orange Carpet. Also, webcams will offer multiple views of the event, giving kids control of what they want to see.
 

Nickelodeon/MTVN Kids and Family Group will host a special package of On Demand content in March that will incorporate Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards related content. The Nick Hotel will host a screening party on-site. General Mills, Burger King, and Hasbro are Presenting Sponsors of Nickelodeon's Kids Choice Awards, with Del Monte, Skechers and Kraft Foods serving as Associate Sponsors.
 

The U.S. Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards is broadcast in more than 228 million households across Nickelodeon's 50 channels in Europe, Russia, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and Latin America. Nickelodeon also produces 11 fully localized Kids Choice Awards in the U.K., Germany, Sweden, Holland, Italy, Mexico, Brazil, Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia and China.
 

Nickelodeon's 2009 Kids' Choice Awards will be produced by Nickelodeon Productions in association with Bob Bain Productions. Saturday Night Live veteran Beth McCarthy will direct. Bob Bain and Marjorie Cohn are executive producers. Paula Kaplan is co-executive producer.
 

Nickelodeon, now in its 30th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in more than 96 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 14 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) .
 

Source: Nickelodeon

Zune Teams Up With MEAN Magazine to Produce New Original Series

'Cinemash' to premiere as first episodic digital show developed by Zune.

REDMOND, Wash., Feb. 4 -- Zune, Microsoft Corp.'s end-to-end music and entertainment service, today announced that it is working with MEAN Magazine to produce "Cinemash," a new original digital series that will take a comedic approach to reinventing classic scenes from popular movies. The premiere of "Cinemash" will be the first in a series of ad- supported episodic video shorts that Zune plans to develop and distribute. The first episode will be available exclusively at Zune Marketplace for free download this spring.
 

"Video is an important part of the Zune experience, and by working with cutting-edge partners like MEAN we are expanding our offering to give our customers original programming they can't get anywhere else," said Paul Davidson, lead video and original content producer for Zune. "We will also look to expand distribution across other Microsoft platforms to make the series available to an even larger audience."
 

Working with some of the most talented actors, directors and producers in the entertainment industry, Zune will develop additional pilots over the next 12 months ranging from live-action and animated comedy to urban and music programming. In addition to being offered as free downloads from the Zune Marketplace online store, the digital series may also be available on other Microsoft platforms such as MSN and Xbox LIVE in the future.
 

MEAN (Music, Entertainment, Art, News), a bimonthly magazine focusing on trailblazers in the fields of fashion, art and cinema, has previously produced innovative shorts featuring well-known talent such as James McAvoy, Elizabeth Banks, Kate Beckinsale, Sir Ben Kingsley and Seth Rogen that have reached over 1 million viewers worldwide. "Cinemash" will continue in this tradition, giving popular film and television actors the opportunity to reenact the roles they have always dreamed of playing.
 

"Zune and MEAN are joining forces to move the bar forward and create the most progressive, inspired series that will knock cinephiles off their feet," said Kashy Khaledi, publisher/creative director of MEAN Magazine. "'Cinemash' will give talent a new platform for creative collaboration, bringing together state-of-the-art production quality with digital distribution to millions of viewers."
 

About Zune
 

Zune is Microsoft's music and entertainment brand that provides an integrated digital entertainment experience. The Zune platform includes a line of portable digital media players, elegant software, the Zune Marketplace online store and the Zune Social online music community, created to help people discover music. Zune is part of Microsoft's Entertainment and Devices Division and supports the company's software-based services vision to help drive innovation in the digital entertainment space. M

About Microsoft
 

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
 

Nashville, Tenn.--February 4, 2008--The Country Music Association announced today that Barbara Mandrell, also known as the "Sweetheart of the Steel," will become one of the newest members of the coveted Country Music Hall of Fame.  The inductees, which include Mandrell, Roy Clark and Charlie McCoy, were revealed this morning at the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum, where Mandrell's steel guitar remains since she donated it to the museum upon her retirement in 1997.  Mandrell's father and long time manager, Irby Mandrell and members of her family were in attendance when the announcement was made.  

"Barbara, Charlie and Roy are truly deserving of Country Music's biggest honor and the opportunity to join the legendary artists and musicians who have already been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "Barbara and Roy are both among our format's greatest ambassadors due to their numerous hit singles, national television series, versatile musicianship, live concert appearances, acting opportunities, and mainstream recognition. And Charlie's musical talents have enriched every recording on which has performed, making him an irreplaceable part of America's music."    

Humbled by the honor Mandrell stated, "I do not have the words to describe what this means to me. It's immeasurable the amount of joy I feel and I am even more grateful to be able to share this honor with my Daddy, Irby Mandrell.  I thank God for my blessings every day because I realize how very fortunate I am to have such loving family, friends and fans who took my career to places that I could never have even imagined. Since age 11, I've been privileged to have lived my life as a country music entertainer."

As the song says, Barbara was "Country When Country Wasn't Cool."  Barbara learned to read music before she could read words. Over the years, she added steel guitar, alto saxophone, bass, banjo, mandolin and Dobro to her arsenal of instruments.  At age 11, her father took her to a music trade show in Chicago where she performed and caught the attention of legendary country guitarists, Chet Atkins and "Uncle" Joe Maphis. Maphis invited Barbara to join his show at the Showboat Hotel in Las Vegas, which became one of the single greatest influences on her musicianship. By the time Barbara was a teenager, she was touring with The Johnny Cash Show, which included- Cash, Patsy Cline, George Jones and June Carter.

(Pictured: Mandrell walks to the podium after being introduced by her sister Louise - photo provided by Country Music Association)

Throughout her career she earned over 75 major awards, including two consecutive CMA Entertainer of the Year awards (1980 & 1981, making her the first artist ever to win two years in a row), CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1979 and 1981), ACM Top Female Country Music Vocalist (1980 and 1986),  NARAS Grammy Award for the Best Inspirational Performance (1983), Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance (1984), Dove Award for Gospel Album of the Year (1983) and nine People's Choice Awards (1983-1987).  She is one of only six artists to have received the "Triple Crown" by winning all three of the most coveted awards, Top New Female, Top Female and Entertainer of the Year. Her NBC variety show, "Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters" drew nearly 40 million viewers weekly and introduced a nation to country music.  Her autobiography, "Get to the Heart: My Story" debuted on The New York Times Best Sellers list and remained there for six months. 

When she retired in 1997, her final concert was filmed at the Grand Ole Opry House for a highly-rated TNN concert special, "Barbara Mandrell and the Do-Rites: The Last Dance."  In 1999, Mandrell was inducted into the Country Gospel Music Hall of Fame.  The next year, the Academy of Country Music honored Barbara with their most prestigious award, The Pioneer Award.

BNA Records paid homage to Mandrell in 2006 with She Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool: A Tribute to Barbara Mandrell. The album featured many of today's top artists performing her classic hits, including Dierks Bentley, Terri Clark, Sara Evans, Reba McEntire and Kenny Chesney, Willie Nelson and Shelby Lynne, Lorrie Morgan, Randy Owen, Brad Paisley, Leann Rimes, Gretchen Wilson, and gospel singer Cece Winans. She was inducted into Nashville's Music City Walk of Fame in 2007. People ranked her among its "100 Most Beautiful" list in 2007 and "100 Most Beautiful at Any Age" list in 2008.

CMA created the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961 to recognize noteworthy individuals for their outstanding contributions to the format with Country Music's highest honor. All inductees are chosen by CMA's Hall of Fame Panel of Electors, which consists of more than 300 anonymous voters appointed by the CMA Board of Directors. Clark, Mandrell, and McCoy will increase membership in the coveted Country Music Hall of Fame from 105 to 108 inductees.

CMA Announces Roy Clark, Barbara Mandrell, and Charlie McCoy as Newest Members of Country Music Hall of Fame

Announcement Made at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum With Special Guests Louise Mandrell, Carl Smith, and Mel Tillis

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Feb. 4 The Country Music Association announced today that Roy Clark, Barbara Mandrell, and Charlie McCoy will become the newest members of the coveted Country Music Hall of Fame.
 

Clark will be inducted in the "Career Achieved National Prominence Between World War II and 1975" category. Mandrell will be the fifth artist inducted in the "Career Achieved National Prominence Between 1975 and the Present" category, which was created in 2005. McCoy will be inducted in the "Recording and/or Touring Musician Active Prior to 1980" category, which is awarded every third year in a rotation with the "Non-Performer" and "Career Achieved National Prominence Prior to World War II" categories.
 

"Barbara, Charlie and Roy are truly deserving of Country Music's biggest honor and the opportunity to join the legendary artists and musicians who have already been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "Barbara and Roy are both among our format's greatest ambassadors due to their numerous hit singles, national television series, versatile musicianship, live concert appearances, acting opportunities, and mainstream recognition. And Charlie's musical talents have enriched every recording on which has performed, making him an irreplaceable part of America's music."
 

Clark, Mandrell, and McCoy will be officially inducted at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum's Medallion Ceremony, which takes place during an annual springtime reunion of the Hall of Fame membership. Since 2007, the Medallion Ceremony has served as the official rite of induction for new members.
 

"The music created by the 2009 Hall of Fame inductees collectively reflects the European and African musical forms and traditions that are the bedrock of Country Music," said Kyle Young, Director of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. "Roy, Charlie and Barbara -- each in their own way -- have nodded to tradition to create music relevant to the first generations of the space age and they have helped to extend the footprint of Country Music and American culture around the world. These are three of the 20th Century's most important artists. We offer our congratulations and we look forward to celebrating these meaningful lives and careers in a few weeks at their official induction."
 

The announcements were made this morning at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum during a press conference hosted by Genovese. Clark was introduced by his friend, Country Music Hall of Fame member Carl Smith; Mandrell was introduced by her sister Louise Mandrell; and McCoy was introduced by his friend, Country Music Hall of Fame member Mel Tillis.
 

"It makes you proud to be considered in that league," said Clark. "I never thought about being in the Hall of Fame before because you're busy working in your career. Never thought I would be there. Then when you are selected it makes you stop and think. I'm now in a pretty exclusive club that includes Jimmy Rodgers, Hank Williams, Roy Acuff, and Little Jimmy Dickens, among many others. The proudest part of my induction into the Hall of Fame is that I'm now associated with all of my friends and heroes."
 

"I am eternally grateful to be joining those honored in the Country Music Hall of Fame who I admire and hold in the highest esteem," said Mandrell. "I thank God for my blessings every day because I realize how very fortunate I am to have such loving family, friends, and fans who took my career to places that I could never have even imagined. Since age 11, I've been privileged to have lived my life as a Country Music entertainer."
 

"When I started playing sessions, all I ever wanted to do was perform on these legendary artists' records," said McCoy. "And now, to be included in the same place that they are is beyond my wildest dreams."
 

CMA created the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961 to recognize noteworthy individuals for their outstanding contributions to the format with Country Music's highest honor. All inductees are chosen by CMA's Hall of Fame Panel of Electors, which consists of more than 300 anonymous voters appointed by the CMA Board of Directors. Clark, Mandrell, and McCoy will increase membership in the coveted Country Music Hall of Fame from 105 to 108 inductees.
 

Recording and/or Touring Musician Active Prior to 1980
 

Charlie McCoy - Charles Ray McCoy was born March 28, 1941, in Oak Hill, West Va., and raised in Miami, Fla. He learned to play his signature instrument, the harmonica, beginning at age eight, though later he would also become a master of guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and a variety of wind and brass instruments. Starting out as a member of several local rock bands during his mid-teens, he later travelled across Florida performing alongside both Country and rock musicians. At one such gig in 1959, Mel Tillis convinced McCoy to travel to Nashville to audition for studio work. Unfortunately he didn't find much work as a session musician at that time, so McCoy moved back to Florida to study musical theory, study vocal lessons, and work as an arranger and conductor.
 

In 1960, McCoy briefly became the drummer for pop singer Johnny Ferguson before returning to Nashville. Tillis later introduced McCoy to music executive Jim Denny, who helped him find work in Music City. His first session was Roy Orbison's "Candy Man" in 1961 (the gig paid $49) and soon he became one of Nashville's most sought-after musicians. In addition, he toured with Stonewall Jackson as his drummer in the early 1960s and released several solo singles. McCoy became a regular performer on Elvis Presley's Nashville and Los Angeles sessions in the mid '60s, while also working with Bob Dylan on such legendary albums as Highway 61 Revisited, Blonde on Blonde, John Wesley Harding, and Nashville Skyline. Al Kooper, Gordon Lightfoot, Ringo Starr, and John Stewart were among the many artists who hired the versatile musician to perform on their albums. At his peak, McCoy was performing on more than 400 sessions a year.
 

McCoy was the first musician to use the "Nashville Number System" in the recording studio. This informal method of transcribing music with numbers was developed by Neil Matthews in the late '50s for the Jordanaires to use when writing vocal parts. In the early '60s, McCoy adapted the system for musicians. The process quickly caught on with his colleagues, and became the new standard for music notation in Nashville.
 

McCoy released his first solo album The World of Charlie McCoy in 1968, followed by The Real McCoy in 1969, both on Monument Records. Around the same time, he was part of the group Area Code 615, which featured many of Nashville's top session stars including David Briggs, Kenny Buttrey, Mac Gayden, Wayne Moss, Weldon Myrick, Norbert Putnam, Buddy Spicher, and Bobby Thompson. The band released two albums: Area Code 615 in 1969, and A Trip in the Country in 1970, both on Polydor Records. After playing its only live show in 1970 at the Fillmore West, Area Code 615 broke up and the musicians went their separate ways.
 

Entering the '70s, McCoy remained an in-demand Nashville session player, recording with artists including Joan Baez, Wanda Jackson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, Leon Russell, Paul Simon, Tanya Tucker, and more, while also recording his own solo projects. In 1971, a Florida DJ played "I Started Loving Her Again" from his 1969 The Real McCoy album and received a huge response from his listeners. The single was soon released nationally and reached the Top 20 in 1972. McCoy released 11 additional solo albums between 1972 and 1979 on Monument Records. His musical talent did not go unnoticed by his colleagues, who awarded him the CMA Instrumentalist of the Year Award in 1972 and 1973, and the Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance in 1972.
 

Wayne Moss, his former bandmate in Area Code 615, formed the group Barefoot Jerry in 1971, which went on to release several different albums on a variety of record labels. The group went through a variety of lineup changes in a short period of time, including several former members of Area Code 615. McCoy joined the band for two album projects, including 1976's Barefootin'.
 

In addition to performing and recording, McCoy worked as Musical Director for several television series and specials during the '70s and '80s. His best known work in this capacity included 18 years on the long-running syndicated television series "Hee Haw"; 20 years with what is currently known as "The Colgate Country Showdown"; and 5 years with "The Arthritis Telethon." McCoy also served as Musical Director on "The Charlie Daniels Christmas Special," "Happy New Year from Opryland," "Hee Haw Honeys," "Nashville Palace," and more.
 

The always busy McCoy also toured internationally, which he continues to this day. Between 1986 and 1998, he released four Country albums (including three on Step One Records), one Gospel album on Simitar Records, and nine albums available exclusively in Europe. He received the R.O.P.E. (Reunion of Professional Entertainers) Musician Award in 1994, and joined the house band on TNN's "Music City Tonight" nightly television series in 1995. In 2007, he was inducted into the International Musicians Hall of Fame. One year later, he became part of the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame. McCoy continues to record and tour, and just recorded his 35th album, which will be available later this year on Green Hill Records. His most recent albums are A Celtic Bridge: From Nashville to Dublin and Charlie's Christmas Angels, which can be purchased on his website www.charliemccoy.com.
 

Throughout his career, McCoy performed harmonica on a multitude of recordings. Among his most well-known are those with the following artists: Alabama ("Tar Top"), Vince Gill ("Christmas Won't Be the Same This Year"), Tom T. Hall ("I Love," "Old Dogs, Children and Watermelon Wine"), Waylon Jennings ("Only Daddy That Will Walk The Line"), George Jones ("He Stopped Loving Her Today"), Loretta Lynn ("When The Tingle Becomes A Chill"), Barbara Mandrell ("I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool"), Ronnie Milsap ("I Wouldn't Have Missed It For The World"), Marie Osmond ("Paper Roses"), Dolly Parton ("My Tennessee Mountain Home"), Johnny Paycheck ("Take This Job and Shove It"), Simon and Garfunkel ("The Boxer"), Ray Stevens ("The Streak"), and Tanya Tucker ("Delta Dawn," "What's Your Mama's Name"). Other artists that utilized McCoy's harmonica skills on their records include: Bill Anderson, Ann-Margret, Eddy Arnold, Chet Atkins, Joan Baez, Bobby Bare, Jim Ed Brown, Johnny Cash, Roy Clark, Patsy Cline, Perry Como, Floyd Cramer, Rodney Crowell, Bob Dylan, Flatt & Scruggs, Merle Haggard, Sonny James, Sammy Kershaw, Brenda Lee, Jerry Lee Lewis, Gordon Lightfoot, Manhattan Transfer, Anne Murray, Willie Nelson, Oak Ridge Boys, Roy Orbison, Osborn Brothers, Patti Page, Carl Perkins, Peter Paul & Mary, Elvis Presley, Charley Pride, Cliff Richard, Johnny Rodriquez, Paul Simon, Nancy Sinatra, Connie Smith, Ringo Starr, Statler Brothers, Steve Miller Band, Pam Tillis, Conway Twitty, Steve Wariner, Doc Watson, Kitty Wells, Tammy Wynette, and many others.
 

McCoy and his wife Pat have been married for 21 years. They are strong supporters of the Nashville Predators hockey team and Vanderbilt University's basketball team. They live in Nashville most of the year, and spend the winter in Ft. Myers, Florida.
 

Career Achieved National Prominence Between World War II and 1975
 

Roy Clark - Roy Linwood Clark was born in April 15, 1933 in Meherrin, Va. As a teenager, he grew up in southeast Washington, DC, where his father worked at the Washington Navy Yard. The son of two amateur musicians, Clark learned to play banjo, guitar, and mandolin at an early age and often performed with his father as a teenager. At the same time, he pursued an athletic career, briefly with baseball and later with boxing. By age 17, he had won 15 consecutive boxing matches as well as two national banjo championships, which earned him his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Soon after, Clark gave up boxing and focused on a music career.
 

After working at several local clubs and radio stations, Clark became a regular on Jimmy Dean's Washington, DC-based television show, "Town and Country Time." After Dean left for New York, Clark took over the show and his reputation as a great musician and performer grew. Moving to Las Vegas in 1960, he performed with western swing bandleader and comedian Hank Penny at the Golden Nugget. Later, he became the leader of Wanda Jackson's band and played on several of her recordings including her single, "Let's Have a Party." After Jackson dismantled her band, Clark regularly performed at the Frontier Hotel in Vegas.
 

Clark signed with Capitol Records in 1963, achieving a Top 10 Country hit with his first single, "Tips of My Fingers." After several minor hits, he moved to Dot Records in 1968, reaching the Top 10 again one year later with "Yesterday When I Was Young."
 

National television became a key component of Clark's career. Dean was the guest-host of "The Tonight Show" several times during the 1960s, and he brought Clark on the show, introducing the young performer to a national audience for the first time. Clark's musical talent and comedic personality struck a chord with viewers, and more television appearances followed on series such as "The Jackie Gleason Show," "Fanfare," and "The Joey Bishop Show." He also appeared in several episodes of the hit "Beverly Hillbillies" television series playing two recurring characters, "Cousin Roy" and his mother, "Myrtle."
 

In the late '60s, the CBS Television Network developed a Country version of the comedy series "Laugh-In" and picked Clark and Buck Owens to serve as co-hosts. "Hee Haw" debuted in 1969 and became one of the most popular shows on television, while also giving Country Music a large weekly national audience. After two seasons though, CBS cancelled the show along with a number of other rural-leaning programming in order to "urbanize" the network's image. The producers of "Hee Haw" sensed the strong public demand for the show and immediately put it into first-run syndication. "Hee Haw" remained in production until its final broadcast in 1992, with Clark never missing an episode. During the run of the show, Clark was a member of the Hee Haw Gospel Quartet (along with Grandpa Jones, Owens, and Kenny Price) and the Million Dollar Band (along with guitarist Chet Atkins, mandolin player Jethro Burns, pianist Floyd Cramer, trumpet player Danny Davis, fiddler Johnny Gimble, harmonica player Charlie McCoy, and saxophonist Boots Randolph).
 

During the early '70s, Clark achieved a string of Top 10 Country singles including "I Never Picked Cotton" (1970), "Thank God and Greyhound" (1970), "The Lawrence Welk-Hee Haw Counter-Revolution Polka" (1972), "Come Live With Me" (1973), "Somewhere Between Love and Tomorrow" (1973), "Honeymoon Feelin'" (1974), and "If I Had It to Do All Over Again" (1976). In between his "Hee Haw" duties, he acted on television shows such as "Love, American Style" and "The Odd Couple." He appeared as himself on television shows and specials such as "The Captain and Tennille," "Hollywood Squares," "Johnny Cash Christmas Special," "The Muppet Show," and guest-hosted "The Tonight Show" several times. The busy Clark also toured constantly, both in the United States and abroad. In 1976, he became one of the first American recording artists to perform in the Soviet Union, where he sold out 18 shows.
 

As the '80s began, Clark started exploring different avenues. He was the first Country Music artist to open a theater in Branson, Mo., when he launched the Roy Clark Theater in 1983. This led to additional artists opening theaters in the city, developing Branson into a strong tourist destination for live music fans. Diversifying his interests, he invested in minor-league baseball, cattle, publishing, and other businesses. He starred in the 1986 movie "Uphill All the Way" with Mel Tillis, and made appearances in the movies "Freeway" (1988) and "Gordy" (1995). Clark fulfilled a lifelong dream by joining the Grand Ole Opry in 1987, while continuing to sellout concerts across the globe.
 

Clark was recognized by his peers with seven CMA Awards, including Entertainer of the Year in 1973. He also won the Comedian of the Year Award in 1970; Instrumental Group of the Year Award (for his work with Buck Trent) in 1975 and 1976; and Instrumentalist of the Year Award in 1977, 1978, and 1980. He received a Grammy Award in 1982 for Best Country Instrumental Performance for "Alabama Jubilee." Clark has also been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
 

Clark and his wife Barbara live in Oklahoma. While maintaining a strong concert tour schedule, he also enjoys fishing, flying his airplanes and riding motorcycles. He finished filming the movie "Palo Pinto Gold" in 2008, co-starring Tillis and Trent Willmon.
 

Career Achieved National Prominence Between 1975 and the Present
 

Barbara Mandrell - Barbara Ann Mandrell was born on Dec. 25, 1948 in Houston, Texas, the eldest child of Irby and Mary Mandrell. Both parents were musical and had a natural influence on their little girl. Mary, an avid musician and music teacher, taught her curious daughter how to play the accordion and read music. In fact, she was reading music before she could read the English language. When Mandrell was almost seven, her parents packed up everything and moved the family to California. By age 10, she was learning steel guitar from Norman Hamlet while also learning alto saxophone in the school band. Six months later, her father took her to Chicago for a music trade convention where her steel guitar talents caught the attention of Joe Maphis, who added her to his Las Vegas show that opened a few days later. At age 11, Mandrell started her professional career.
 

After returning home from Las Vegas, Mandrell became a regular on the weekly Los Angeles television show "Town Hall Party," and in 1961, made her national television debut on ABC with Red Foley's "Five Star Jubilee." That milestone in her career lead to another: her first concert tour as part of "The Johnny Cash Show," which featured four of Country Music's beloved legends: Johnny Cash, June Carter, Patsy Cline, and George Jones.
 

In eighth grade, she joined her parents to form the Mandrell Family Band. The group entertained exclusively for all branches of the military throughout her high school years, including performances overseas in countries such as Vietnam. In 1963 at age 15, Mandrell recorded her first single and scored a minor hit with "Queen for a Day."
 

But it wasn't only show business that captured her young heart, as Mandrell fell in love with the band's first drummer, Ken Dudney. A year later, Dudney left the band to enlist in the Navy and become a carrier pilot. As she was nearing her high school graduation and he had just received his Navy wings, Dudney and Mandrell married on May 28, 1967. Just two weeks after the wedding, the Mandrell Family Band travelled to Vietnam for their last tour before they disbanded. At age 18, Mandrell retired from music to become a Navy wife in Whidby Island, Wash. However before their first wedding anniversary, Dudney received orders to ship out, so he sent his new wife to stay with her family who had moved to Tennessee.
 

In the summer of 1968, her father took her to the Grand Ole Opry. While enjoying the show, Mandrell whispered to her father, "Daddy, I wasn't cut out to be in the audience. I want to get back into Country Music. Will you manage me again?" Within 48 hours of a nightclub appearance near the Opry, she received four different recording contract offers. Signing with Billy Sherrill and Columbia Records in 1969, Mandrell charted her first hit with a remake of Otis Redding's "I've Been Loving You Too Long." A year later, she gave birth to her first child, Matthew Dudney, and reached No.13 on the charts with "Playin' Around With Love." Success continued with "After Closing Time" (1970 duet with David Houston); "Tonight My Baby's Coming Home" (1971); and "Show Me" (1972). That same year, at 23, Mandrell fulfilled her dream of becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry. One year later she had her first No.1 single with "The Midnight Oil" (1973).
 

In 1975, Mandrell moved to ABC/Dot Records (soon to become MCA Records) and began working with producer Tom Collins. The pair quickly achieved success with "Standing Room Only," "Married But Not to Each Other," "That's What Friends Are For" and "Woman to Woman." One year after signing with ABC/Dot, she gave birth to her daughter, Jaime Dudney.
 

Mandrell returned to the No.1 spot for two weeks in 1978 with "Sleeping Single in a Double Bed." She repeated this feat with her follow-up, "(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don't Want to Be Right" and "Years," both released in 1979. Entering the '80s, she continued to achieve success hit singles including "Crackers," "The Best of Strangers," and "In Times Like These," among others. Mandrell also returned to the No.1 position three more times with "Till You're Gone," "One of a Kind Pair of Fools," and the song that would become her signature hit, "I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool."
 

In recognition of her success, Mandrell received four CMA Awards. She took home the CMA Female Vocalist of the Year Award in 1979 and 1981, and became the third female artist to be named CMA Entertainer of the Year in 1980. One year later, she made history as the first artist to win the CMA Entertainer of the Year Award two years in a row.
 

In addition to her recording successes, Barbara was also building a national television profile. In 1978, she made a guest appearance on the "Lucy Comes to Nashville" television special with Lucille Ball. One year later, she appeared on the television series "Rockford Files" and "Concrete Cowboys," as well as in television movies "Murder in Music City" and "Skinflint: A Country Christmas Carol."
 

All her hard work with hit singles, touring, television appearances and awards opened new entertainment avenues for Mandrell. In 1980, she joined with sisters Louise and Irlene to host "Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters" on the NBC Television Network. The one-hour variety series featuring guest artists, musical segments and comedy was an instant prime time hit, reaching 40 million viewers on a weekly basis and earning a combined 11 Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Now at the height of her career, Mandrell continued to record albums and tour vigorously around the tape dates for her series. She was also a frequent guest on television specials, including "Bob Hope's All-Star Birthday Party," "John Schneider: Back Home," and "Lawrence Welk" (all in 1980); "Battle of the Network Stars," "Bob Hope Funny Valentine Special," and the television movie "Country Gold" (all in 1981). But after two seasons, Mandrell ended her television series in 1982 under her doctor's orders after being diagnosed with vocal strain.
 

The variety show steered her towards winning her two Grammy Awards. Mandrell ended each episode with a gospel segment that stirred her to record the inspirational album, He Set My Life to Music. The title cut earned Mandrell her first Grammy Award in 1982 for Best Inspirational Performance. She won a second Grammy Award in 1983 for Best Soul Gospel Performance by a Duo or Group for her duet with Bobby Jones, "I'm So Glad I'm Standing Here Today."
 

Mandrell received a total of six American Music Awards in the 80s: one for Favorite Country Single ("Sleeping Single in a Double Bed") in 1980; and five for Favorite Female Country Artist in 1981, 1983, 1984, 1985 and 1987. In addition, she received nine People's Choice Awards, including Favorite Female Musical Performer (1982, 1985), Favorite Female Personality (1982), and Favorite All-Around Female Performer (1982-1987). In 1981, People named her as part of its "25 Most Intriguing List."
 

She returned to television in 1983 with her Vegas-style concert special, "Barbara Mandrell: The Lady is a Champ" on HBO. A year later, she released a duet album with Lee Greenwood and scored a No.1 hit with "To Me." Mandrell also co-starred with Tom Wopat in the television movie "Burning Rage" and was tapped to host two separate "Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus" television specials for CBS.
 

However, after almost four decades of music success, she met her biggest challenge. On Sept. 11, 1984, Mandrell and her children, Jaime and Matthew Dudney, were nearly killed in a head-on car crash outside Nashville. They survived, but the wreck left her with multiple fractures in her right leg including a broken thigh bone, knee, and ankle. She also suffered lacerations, abrasions and a severe concussion. After a year and a half of rehabilitation and therapy, Mandrell was back in action, and with a new baby boy, Nathan Dudney. She went on to be an influential advocate for wearing seatbelts and worked to get the Tennessee seatbelt law passed.
 

Her accident and recovery behind her and a desire to return to the stage, Mandrell continued to garner accolades throughout the '80s. She charted several Top 10 Country hits, including "There's No Love in Tennessee," "Angel in Your Arms," and "Fast Lanes and Country Roads." Her duet with the Oak Ridge Boys, "When You Get to the Heart," reached the Country Top 20. Moving to Capitol Records in 1987, she achieved success with the singles "I Wish That I Could Fall in Love Today" (No.5) and "My Train of Thought" (No.19). During this time she also starred in two CBS television specials: "Barbara Mandrell: Something Special" (1985) and the Emmy-winning "Barbara Mandrell's Christmas: A Family Reunion" (1986).
 

In 1990, Mandrell released her autobiography, "Get to the Heart: My Story." The book appeared on the New York Times Best Seller list just four days after its release and remained there for six months. The story of her life was made into a highly-rated television movie starring Maureen McCormick that aired on CBS in 1997.
 

Mandrell had enjoyed her experience in the "Burning Rage" television movie several years earlier and began to focus on other acting opportunities. She appeared in guest roles on several television series, including "Empty Nest" (1993), "The Commish," (1994), "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" (1996), "Touched by an Angel" (1996, 1998), "Diagnosis Murder" (1997), "Love Boat: The Next Wave" (1998) and "Walker, Texas Ranger" (2000). She played a recurring character on the daytime drama "Sunset Beach" in 1997 and 1998 and acted in two additional television movies "The Wrong Girl" (1999) and "Stolen from the Heart" (2000). She also starred in her own television special "Steppin' Out" during this time (1995).
 

In 1997, after releasing her last studio album, Mandrell shocked her fans and the industry by announcing she was retiring from her Country Music career. Her final concert was filmed at the Grand Ole Opry House in October for a highly-rated TNN concert special, "Barbara Mandrell and the Do-Rites: The Last Dance."
 

In 1999, Mandrell was inducted into the Country Gospel Music Hall of Fame. BNA Records paid homage to Mandrell in 2006 with She Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool: A Tribute to Barbara Mandrell. The album featured many of today's top artists performing her classic hits, including Dierks Bentley, Terri Clark, Sara Evans, Reba McEntire and Kenny Chesney, Willie Nelson and Shelby Lynne, Lorrie Morgan, Randy Owen, Brad Paisley, Leann Rimes, Gretchen Wilson, and gospel singer Cece Winans. She was inducted into Nashville's Music City Walk of Fame in 2007. People ranked her among its "100 Most Beautiful" list in 2007 and "100 Most Beautiful at Any Age" list in 2008.
 

Academy of Country Music, dick clark productions & GAC Television Partner to Give Fans the Power to Name Top New Artist Categories for the First Time Ever

Unprecedented Television Exposure for New Artists Planned

ENCINO, Calif., Feb. 4 - The Academy of Country Music, dick clark productions and Great American Country (GAC) announced today that for the first time ever, the three newcomer categories for the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS - Top New Female Vocalist, Top New Male Vocalist and Top New Vocal Duo or Group - will be opened up to interactive fan voting through GACTV.com.
 

The 44th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards will be broadcast LIVE from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Sunday, April 5, 2009 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network.
 

Fan voting for these three categories will begin at GACTV.com on Friday, February 13, and will close on Thursday, March 5. The winner in each of the three categories will be announced March 9, and will move on to compete in a brand new Academy of Country Music Awards category, Top New Artist. Voting for the Top New Artist category will begin on March 16, and will close on April 5, with the winner being announced live during the 44th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards.
 

As part of this new partnership, GAC will air several stand-alone specials, including a show featuring all the nominees from each of the three categories, as well as a special on the winner.
 

"GAC is honored to be part of this fan-focused selection process particularly because so many of these top new artists get their first exposure to TV on GAC," said Sarah Trahern, senior vice president of programming for GAC. "Country Music fans everywhere will get the rare opportunity to show their support for the many talented new artists in our country format."
 

"The Academy has been at the forefront of supporting new artists and introducing them to new audiences. This alliance felt like a natural fit and extension of that support," said Bob Romeo, executive director of the Academy of Country Music.
 

Orly Adelson, president of dcp said, "dick clark productions has always celebrated the instrumental role music fans play in the popularity of new and emerging artists. The ability for country artists to vote directly online will provide them with an even greater opportunity to make their voices heard."
 

The first GAC special, hosted by reigning Top New Male Vocalist Jack Ingram, will feature the nine nominees, three from each newcomer category, and will premiere on Friday, February 20. This special will re-air through March 5, when voting closes.
 

On March 10, GAC will tape a special hosted by Sara Evans, wherein the winner in each category will be named and presented with the award for Top New Female Vocalist, Top New Male Vocalist, and Top New Vocal Duo or Group. Each winning act will perform on this special, which will air March 19 with multiple re-airs scheduled.
 

The winner of the new Top New Artist category will be awarded on the 44th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards broadcast LIVE from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Sunday, April 5, 2009 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network.
 

Nominees for the Academy of Country Music Awards will be announced on Wednesday, February 11, in Nashville.
 

About the Academy of Country Music Awards
 

The 44th Academy of Country Music Awards is dedicated to honoring and showcasing the biggest names and emerging talent in the country music industry. The show is produced for television by dick clark productions and will be broadcast LIVE from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Sunday, April 5, 2009 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network. Orly Adelson and R.A. Clark are executive producers, Barry Adelman is producer and Bob Bardo is executive in charge of production.
 

About Great American Country (GAC)
 

Great American Country is the leader in country music entertainment. GAC delivers to viewers the widest variety of country music, its artists and the lifestyles they influence. GAC broadcasts original country music programming, country music performance specials, live concerts, music videos, and is the exclusive television home of the Grand Ole Opry. GAC is available in more than 55 million households and online at http://www.gactv.com/. GAC is owned by Scripps Networks, the leading developer of lifestyle-oriented content for television and the Internet, including HGTV, Food Network, DIY Network and Fine Living Network. Scripps Networks is based in Knoxville, Tenn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta and Nashville, and is a unit of Scripps Networks Interactive (NYSE:SNI) .
 

Lana Clarkson in 1982   Photo: Edward Lozzi & Associates

   This Tuesday will reach a landmark date we could of done without. On  February 3rd 2003, six years ago, actress/comedienne, producer, Lana Clarkson's life ended. She was brutally murdered when a gun was fired into her beautiful face.

Lana is gone forever. Her memory will last for many years with her friends and fans. Six long years have passed and her murderer still walks among us.

Phil Spector is charged with her murder. The evidence is overwhelming including his many contradictory statements. A large majority, 10-to-2 hung a jury last year and Spector walked. But we hope that will change in a few months . .We can hardly wait for this trial to end.  The witnesses, friends, and law enforcement officials have bound together to face Spector in this final fight for his life. However  Lana's friends have been muzzled by threats and told not to speak to the media on her behalf. Some have been threatened but are not paying attention to this and feel that the public, including the jury pool over the years, have been adversely affected by the results of this unethical and illegal behavior. Lana deserves more than that. It's not about the wrongful death money case...it's about justice for murder at this criminal trial now! It's about putting Spector away to protect society-not putting money in lawyer's pockets.

" No amount of stalling, filing, maneuvering, or fabricating will end the inevitable trial outcome-conviction, and hopefully lifetime incarceration for this gun crazy accused murderer, who according to testimony at his first trial, repeatedly victimized other women with loaded guns in their faces. It has been learned that too many people came forward after many years of fear and threats from Spector and filed complaints against him- (50 to 100) including Debby Harry and Michele Phillips from the Mommas and Poppas. But only 5 were allowed to testify. We wait patiently even though these other women and men can't testify in front of a jury for what they have endured from this gun crazy troubled man, who even now walks the streets of America without even one day of incarceration (out on $1 million dollars bail)even after being charged with murder years ago. We just hope that Spector doesn't shoot anyone else in the meantime". 
Edward Lozzi, Lana Clarkson's long time friend and former publicist.



Always Remembered
http://www.livingdollproductions.com

Complete list of winners of the 15th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards:

Movies:

_Cast: "Slumdog Millionaire."

_Actor in a leading role: Sean Penn, "Milk."

_Actress in a leading role: Meryl Streep, "Doubt."

_Supporting actor: Heath Ledger, "The Dark Knight."

_Supporting actress: Kate Winslet, "The Reader."

_Stunt ensemble: "The Dark Knight."

Television:

_Drama series cast: "Mad Men."

_Actor in a drama series: Hugh Laurie, "House."

_Actress in a drama series: Sally Field, "Brothers & Sisters."

_Comedy series cast: "30 Rock."

_Actor in a comedy series: Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock."

_Actress in a comedy series: Tina Fey, "30 Rock."

_Actor in a movie or miniseries: Paul Giamatti, "John Adams."

_Actress in a movie or miniseries: Laura Linney, "John Adams."

_Stunt ensemble: "Heroes."

Life Achievement: James Earl Jones.

         Official Poster for Damian Chapa's  "Polanski Unauthorized"           Damian Chapa, star, producer, director and writer of "Polanski Unauthorized"
   


 

                    
Los Angeles - The first biopic about the life of Director Roman Polanski will be released February Friday the13th, and will  run three weeks in selected cinemas in Hollywood. A monumental day for a revealing film that one critic describes as “a chilling portrait of one of the most controversial figures in the history of movies.”

Spanning four decades, the film covers everything from a turbulent childhood in war torn Poland, the murder of his wife Sharon Tate by the infamous Charles Manson cult and the infamous notorious rape case that lead to Polanski’s exile to avoid incarceration by escaping to and maintaining residence in Europe.

Considering the current legal disputes, it is unlikely Polanski will be in attendance, but for the rest you, as a popular critic put it, “Check it out – you’ll thank me later."

This is a film Hollywood does not want you to see, but  must be seen to be believed.

"Polanski Unauthorized" is directed by and stars Damian Chapa who is famous for his lead role in Taylor Hackford’s cult classic "Blood in Blood Out" as well as "Under Siege" starring Steven Seagal  released by Warner Brothers.

The screening of "Polanski Unauthorized" will be held at the Laemmle’s Sunset 5, 8000 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood 90046 on Tuesday, February 10th at 7:00 pm. RSVP required. The event will benefit the ‘Children’s Defense League’, an F.T.G Foundation. A cocktail party will follow the screening and a meet and greet with the cast, as well as exclusive interviews available with Damian Chapa. The film opens it's regular engagement at the Sunset 5 Friday the 13th, Valentine's Day Eve. WWW.LAEMMLE.COM
 
The main cast includes:  Damian Chapa (Roman Polanski), Leah Grimsson (13 year old Girl), Thomas Druilhet (The Devil), Brienne De Beau (Sharon Tate), Silvia Suvadova (Polanski’s Mother), Christian Serritiello (Polanski’s Father) and Paul James Saunders (Eugene Gatowski)

Reviews:
“A movie to cause talk, raise eyebrows, rattle cages and have Hollywood insiders blow their stacks!”
Robert Osborne, The Hollywood Reporter
 
“A chilling portrait of one of the most controversial figures in the history of movies.”
Terry Keffe, The Hollywood Interview

“Chapa does and excellent job as the lead. Standout performances included Christian Serritiello as Polanski’s father and Paul James Saunders as Polanski’s financier.”
Christopher J. Baca, Entertainment Weekly for El Paso
 
www.polanskiunauthorized.com
www.amadeuspictures.com

Presented by Amadeus Pictures in association with Korriwood Pictures and Walking Shadows

West Hollywood – On February 10, 2009, Café La Boheme -- world-renown for 5-star cuisine and stunning interior -- will open its Tuscan country villa doors to host the ‘2009 Valentine Celebrity Romance Suite’ to honor the movie industry’s Oscar Nominated actors, former Oscar winners, presenters, enduring Hollywood couples and industry VIPS.  By invitation only, guests attending this unique and romantic suite in preparation for their red-carpet appearances will enjoy a fabulous array of fashion for him and her, the finest in skin care and fragrance, lingerie, exotic trips, elegant jewelry, delectable goodies, exotic spirits and more!

A ‘sneak peak’ at just a few of the participants includes:

Miami’s haute couture jewelry designer, Liz Alpert of Jewelry of The Spirit, will debut her Love + Gratitude Cufflinks for men, gorgeous enough to wear with your tux to the Oscar’s and her  Sterling Silver Love + Gratitude Medallions adorned with multi-colored gemstones for women.  These meaningful, stylish creations incorporate the most important and beneficial spiritual messages -- Love, Gratitude, Compassion, Joy, Faith, Peace, and Serve.


Camille Flawless Haute Couture brings her hand-sewn, Swarovski-embellished creations to the stars.  These amazing gowns are available only at the luxury Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas.  Worn by top stars and personalities, including Paris Hilton, Kim Kardashian and Mrs. Kobe Bryant, These chic and sensuous gowns, will be given exclusively to top stars attending the Oscars.  And, for the messieurs – it’s The Tom James Company -- the world’s leading custom- luxury clothiers offers the finest custom-made tuxedos and accoutrements worth more than $4,000, including Tom James’ custom-shirts, ties and other elegant accessories.  In honor of Valentine’s Day and celebrity wedding season, we bring you Mon Amie -- the West Coasts’ most elegant & premiere bridal salon.  Mon Amie will present its unparalleled selection of top designer bridal gowns, veils & bridal accessories.

Stand out on the red carpet with Colette Jewelry located in Beverly Hills.  One of Mexico’s most renowned jewelry designers, Colette is a favorite of Salma Hayek, Jessica Alba, Sophia Loren and Raquel Welch.  These rare, hand-made pieces of gold, precious and semi-precious stones are inspired by Hispanic and French Impressionism. And for those who want fun, stylish fashion accessories, Armies Wear brings their fabulous Swarovski Crystal arm-band cuffs in an array of colors – a favorite of Madonna!

Sheikh Shoes, brings their hottest stiletto styles to the stars!  These gorgeous shoes will drive any woman wild with their sexy, classic look. So many styles . .. so little time.  And, from the hot rhythms of Brazil, comes Capelta Boots.  These sensational, jaw-dropping boots are vintage glamour at its best.  Wearing Capelta creates a sensation wherever you go and that means on or off the Red Carpet.

Be a real Hollywood Pin-Up with Hollywood Pin-Ups’ sexy vegan cosmetics made with pure organic products and packaged in glittering old-Hollywood-style jars and bottles -- perfect for your boudoir!  Lip-Ink® Patented Wax Free™ Semi-Permanent® Cosmetics brings the most amazing personal care and beauty products for both men and women.  Who says you can’t look fabulous, first thing in the morning?  And for those who have trouble sleeping, and who doesn’t?  GLOtoSLEEP™ combines modern technology with ancient wisdom to create a revolutionary new sleep mask that clears your mind, quickly relaxes you and gets you to sleep naturally.

Seacret Spa unveils its patented secret to having the healthiest nails for both men and women without chemicals or polish! Their Salt Scrubs and mud masks from the Dead Sea, rejuvenates the most weathered skin and brings back its youthful luster. These products are miraculous!
 
Romance is in the air with a luscious Kama Sutra Bar that brings the art of romance and intimacy to your love life.  “Making Love Better™”, Kama Sutra’s sensuous oils and lotions encourage romantic harmony and well-being.  To add to the romance, enjoy Aglow Candles.  These divinely fragrant candles, personally designed with your initials or symbols in Swarovski Crystals, create a very special ambiance.  Want more sizzle?  It’s Original Bombshell’s collection of rich moisturizers -- Caress Me Baby, Gardenia Body Lotion, Love at First Light, Spoil Me and Come Hither -- add in Bombshellicious lip shines in Peppermint, Hazelnut and Simply Sexy and you’ve got hot!

BLO & GO is the revolutionary hair styling tool that frees up your hands from holding a blow-dryer and delivers a stunning, salon blown-out hairstyle.  HAI Elite offers the very latest in innovation with its new-age ceramic hair-styling tools.  Their international celebrity stylist will be on hand to style hair.

For a romantic get-a-way, enjoy The Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa, featuring world-class accommodations and amenities perfectly matched to the magnificent scenery of what USA Today Weekend Magazine called “the most beautiful place in America.”   The Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa will be giving 3 night Spa luxury stays to an exclusive list of stars.  The Golden Door opens its doors to select stars to experience 1week of serenity for mind and body. If a week is too long, 4-day stays are also available.  Experience being spoiled by their world-class staff as you enjoy top-of-the-line body and facial treatments, exquisite 5-star Spa cuisine and more.

Café La Boheme’s 5-star executive chef, Christine Banta creates a gourmands delight!  With a classical French background, but coming from a Japanese/American family, Banta’s menu reflects her many influences -- lobster crepes, seared fois gras on fresh-baked brioche, smoked gravlax (smoked at the restaurant), mushroom risotto, roasted beet salad, butterscotch pudding parfait and warm chocolate cake -- just a few of the samplings our guests will enjoy.

They say ‘absinthe makes the heart grow fonder’ so enjoy Mata Hari, Europe’s most prestigious, authentic, Bohemian-style absinthe.  And, direct from the Ukraine, where drinking vodka is an art, Aisburg Vodka will be offering their premium vodka and exotic collection of flavored vodkas.  Dress The Drink will ‘dress’ and embellish our celebratory cocktails!  Stimulate your soul with Aquamantra: Premium Natural Spring Water  -- a water that resonates with the energy and frequency of your well-being. Each bottle delivers a powerful message through the mantras, I AM GRATEFUL™,I AM HEALTHY™, I AM LOVED™ or I AM LUCKY™ .

It’s Sweets for the Suite by Mignon Chocolate. These exquisite, European hand-made creations, based upon a 3rd generation secret family recipe, include such mouth-watering delights as chocolate covered orange peel strips, liquid caramel crowns, hand-rolled truffles and other delectable confections – a favorite of Hollywood elite, including Adam Sandler.  

Lest we forget our sumptuous VIP gift bag.  To become a VIP gift bag product sponsor for the ‘2009 Valentine Celebrity Romance Suite’ contact Anita Talbert at 310-276-9318 or neets22@ca.rr.com

FILM

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role

  • Richard Jenkins, The Visitor   • Frank Langella, Frost/Nixon   • Sean Penn, Milk   • Brad Pitt, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button   • Mickey Rourke, The Wrestler Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role

  • Anne Hathaway, Rachel Getting Married   • Angelina Jolie, Changeling   • Melissa Leo, Frozen River   • Meryl Streep, Doubt   • Kate Winslet, Revolutionary Road Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role

  • Josh Brolin, Milk   • Robert Downey Jr., Tropic Thunder   • Philip Seymour Hoffman, Doubt   • Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight   • Dev Patel, Slumdog Millionaire Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role

  • Amy Adams, Doubt   • Penélope Cruz, Vicky Cristina Barcelona   • Viola Davis, Doubt   • Taraji P. Henson, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button   • Kate Winslet, The Reader Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

  • Doubt   • Frost/Nixon   • Milk   • Slumdog Millionaire   • The Curious Case of Benjamin Button TV

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries

  • Ralph Fiennes, Bernard and Doris   • Paul Giamatti, John Adams   • Kevin Spacey, Recount   • Kiefer Sutherland, 24: Redemption   • Tom Wilkinson, John Adams Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries

  • Laura Dern, Recount   • Laura Linney, John Adams   • Shirley MacLaine, Coco Chanel   • Phylicia Rashad, A Raisin in the Sun   • Susan Sarandon, Bernard and Doris Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series

  • Michael C. Hall, Dexter   • Jon Hamm, Mad Men   • Hugh Laurie, House   • William Shatner, Boston Legal   • James Spader, Boston Legal Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series

  • Sally Field, Brothers & Sisters   • Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit   • Holly Hunter, Saving Grace   • Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men   • Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series

  • Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock   • Steve Carell, The Office   • David Duchovny, Californication   • Jeremy Piven, Entourage   • Tony Shalhoub, Monk Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series

  • Christina Applegate, Samantha Who?   • America Ferrera, Ugly Betty   • Tina Fey, 30 Rock   • Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds   • Tracey Ullman, Tracey Ullman's State of the Union Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series

  • Boston Legal   • Dexter   • House   • Mad Men   • The Closer Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series

  • 30 Rock   • Desperate Housewives   • Entourage   • The Office   • Weeds SAG HONORS FOR STUNT ENSEMBLES

Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture

  • The Dark Knight   • Hellboy II: The Golden Army   • Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull   • Iron Man   • Wanted Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series

  • Friday Night Lights   • Heroes   • Prison Break   • The Unit   • The Closer SCREEN ACTORS GUILD'S 45th LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

James Earl Jones

TV Land Sleighs into the Holiday Season with Memorable Christmas Episodes Beginning December 7

Festivities Continue on December 21 and 25

NEW YORK, Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Ho-Ho-Ho, holiday episodes have arrived on TV Land! Grab the eggnog and cookies, kick up your feet and join your favorite families as they sleigh into your living room with "TV Land's 9th Annual Merrython" on Sunday, December 7 from 9am - 10pm (ET/PT). This 13-hour marathon showcases some of Santa's favorite holiday episodes of "The Andy Griffith Show," "All in the Family," "Sanford and Son," "The Beverly Hillbillies," "Little House on the Prairie" and more. Tune in as Andy and Barney throw a Christmas party and Archie Bunker's temper flares and his opinions rock the holiday festivities.
 

"TV Land's Merrython" festivities continue on December 21 and December 25, as more of the channel's modern acquisitions are added to the showcase, with holiday episodes of "3rd Rock From the Sun" and "Scrubs." It's another chance to enjoy the holidays with episodes that warm viewers' hearts.
 

"TV Land's Annual Merrython" schedule is as follows (episode descriptions are available upon request):
 

TV Land PRIME is TV Land's prime time programming destination designed for people in their mid-forties and the exclusive home to the premieres of the network's original programming, contemporary television series acquisitions and movies. TV Land PRIME is part of TV Land, a network dedicated to presenting the best in entertainment on all platforms for consumers in their 40s and 50s. Consisting of original programming, acquired shows, hit movies and full-service web site, TV Land is now seen in over 93 million U.S. homes. For up-to-the-minute and archival press information including releases and photographs, please visit TV Land's press-only Web site at www.tvlandpress.com.
 

About MTV Networks
 

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 150 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services -- MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 300 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.
 

Source: TV Land

The Largest Auction Of Hollywood Memorabilia Ever Will Include Scripts, Movie Posters, Portraits, Stills, Lobby Cards And More

Largest auction of Hollywood memorabilia in History-the liquidation of Hollywood's legendary Collectors Book Store's 3 MILLION items of inventory taking place December 12-14. Virtually every film and television show that was made will be represented. Unlike other auctions of Hollywood memorabilia where the opening bid could be in the thousands, tens of thousands or even a hundred thousand dollars, the opening bid for almost all of these lots will be just $200, making it possible for everyone to have the opportunity to take home a piece of Hollywood history. Many times there will be a collection of five, ten, twenty or even hundreds or thousands of pieces in one lot.

The schedule for Worldwide bidding, which can be placed in person, via mail, phone, fax or live on the Internet via eBay Live Auctions (HYPERLINK "http://www.ebayliveauctions.com/" www.ebayliveauctions.com) or (HYPERLINK "http://www.liveauctioneers.com/" www.LiveAuctioneers.com) is as follows:
· Friday, December 12, 2008: 11:00 AM PST;
· Saturday and Sunday, December 13 & 14: 10:00 AM PST.



Three Million Pieces of Hollywood History To Be Sold By Profiles In History In a Liquidation Of The Entire Inventory Of Collectors Book Store
December 12-14, 2008

The Largest Auction Of Hollywood Memorabilia Ever Will Include Scripts, Movie Posters, Portraits, Stills, Lobby Cards And More


Calabasas, CA-Film and TV fans will have a once in lifetime opportunity to purchase an unprecedented 3,000,000 pieces of Hollywood memorabilia as Profiles in History, the recognized world leader in the sale of Hollywood memorabilia presents the entire inventory of the world famous Collectors Book Store in Hollywood in their 34th Hollywood auction. This auction of the largest archive of Hollywood history outside of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will take place over three days-December 12, 13 and 14. Included in the auction will be costumes, movie posters, scripts, portraits, movie stills, lobby cards, fan magazines, press books and other miscellaneous items-some rare and one of a kind. The schedule for Worldwide bidding, which can be placed in person, via mail, phone, fax or live on the Internet via eBay Live Auctions (HYPERLINK "http://www.ebayliveauctions.com/" www.ebayliveauctions.com) or (HYPERLINK "http://www.liveauctioneers.com/" www.LiveAuctioneers.com) is as follows:
· Friday, December 12, 2008: 11:00 AM PST;
· Saturday and Sunday, December 13 & 14: 10:00 AM PST.

Virtually every film and television show that was made will be represented. The opening bid for each lot will be just $200-$300, making it possible for everyone to have the opportunity to take home a piece of Hollywood history. Many times there will be a collection of five, ten, twenty or even hundreds or thousands of pieces in one lot.

"The quality and sheer magnitude of this archive is hard to describe Because of the volume of merchandise, many of the items will be sold by the file cabinet. There will be some exceptions-the rarest and most valuable items - some of the oversized studio portraits of stars of the 1930s by photographers like George Hurrell will be sold separately," said Joe Maddalena, President and CEO of Profiles in History.

Photographs include an astounding 1,300,000 (One million, three hundred thousand) 8x10 photographs, many of them autographed. The huge collection of oversized photo prints-10"x13" and 11"x14" include Hollywood legends Joan Crawford, Greta Garbo, Jean Harlow, Myrna Loy and Marlene Dietrich among hundred of others, shot by equally legendary photographers including Clarence Sinclair Bull, George Hurrell, Ruth Harriet Louise, Otto Dyar and Eugene Robert Richee.

You will also find employment contracts for Joan Crawford, Marlene Dietrich, Abbott and Costello, James Cagney, Cary Grant, W.C. Fields, Alfred Hitchcock, Boris Karloff, John Huston and many more.

The script collection-in the thousands-includes films and stars from every era. The final lot of the auction, Lot # 3009, includes a massive archive of over 4,000 scripts from all eras and genres-with an opening bid of just $200 for the whole lot!

Then, there are the movie posters and lobby cards. Ten of thousands of them, covering the gamut of movie stars and filmmaking. Some lots include three to four THOUSAND posters, all for one price. Profiles in History has assembled special, separate collections for James Bond, Lucy and Star Wars fans. Each of the three large collections of posters, photos, lobby cards and more has an opening bid of just $200 each.

Costumes included in the auction range from those worn by John Wayne, Charlton Heston, Sylvester Stallone and Jack Nicholson, to Herve Villechez and Billy Barty! There is also a huge collection of art from costume designers including Edith Head, Bill Thomas, Cecil Beaton and Helen Rose as well as production artwork and 3,000+ 35mm movie trailers.

For more information and to download a complete catalog of items available for auction, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" \o "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" www.profilesinhistory.com.


About Collectors Book Store:

Collectors Book Store, opened 1965 by high school history and English teacher Malcolm Willits and his friend and comic book collector Leonard Brown, began providing a piece of Hollywood history to the movie and TV enthusiast-the first real specialty store dealing in rare science fiction material, old comic books, and movie memorabilia. At the time, collecting movie material was not the "in" thing to do; it wasn't "socially acceptable" to have framed movie posters in your home. So it was left to the lowly "fans", those few who truly loved films, to buy, preserve, and protect movie heritage

Collectors Book Store moved several times before settling in its current Hollywood Boulevard location, adjacent to The Pantages Theatre, 10 years ago. Six years ago the store was closed to the public, and sales of photographs and posters were switched to the Internet. Many film stars have visited Collectors Book Store throughout the years. "Mae West was so nice," recalled Mark Willoughby, Willits' current business partner. "She would trade us better pictures of herself for the ones that she didn't like. Janet Leigh was another one who was always nice. She would come in and sign things for fans."

About Profiles in History:
Founded in 1985 by Joseph Maddalena, Profiles in History is the nation's leading dealer in guaranteed-authentic original historical autographs, letters, documents, vintage signed photographs and manuscripts. Profiles in History has held some of the most prestigious and successful auctions of Hollywood memorabilia. Their auctions include costumes, props and set pieces from both vintage and contemporary film, television, and rock 'n roll. Profiles in History's location in Calabasas Hills, CA- virtually a stone's throw away from every major Hollywood studio - ensures a constant flow of fantastic and rare collectibles. With an extensive network of dealers, collectors, and institutions, they are proud to play an important role in the preservation of motion picture history.

GAMERS TO TRAVEL DOWN THE ROAD OF "THE LOST AND DAMNED" FOR THE FIRST TIME AT 2008 VGAS

Exclusive World Premiere of Rockstar Games' First "Grand Theft Auto IV" Episode to Debut at Spike's Video Game Awards

NEW YORK, NY, December 5, 2008 – Today, Rockstar Games and Spike TV announced that “Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned” will world premiere at the 2008 Video Game Awards, live Sunday December 14 at 9:00pm, ET (tape delay on West Coast).

Since its launch in April, “Grand Theft Auto IV” has garnered unprecedented praise and acclaim worldwide, with a staggering nine nominations for the 2008 Video Game Awards including "Game of the Year".

Developed by series creator Rockstar North and set in Liberty City, “The Lost and Damned” features a new main character and plot that intersects with the storyline of “Grand Theft Auto IV”; new missions that offer an entirely fresh way to explore Liberty City with new multiplayer modes, weapons and vehicles; and a diverse soundtrack with additional music – all with the incredible production values that are the trademarks of “Grand Theft Auto”.

Available exclusively on Xbox LIVE worldwide on February 17, 2009, “Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned” requires players to have the full version of “Grand Theft Auto IV” for Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE membership to download.

The sixth annual "VGAs," hosted by Jack Black, will bring together megastars from the worlds of video games, Hollywood, music, sports and more to celebrate the outstanding achievements within the video game industry over the past year, and world premiere the hottest games of 2009 and beyond.  The 2-hour extravaganza will premiere LIVE on Spike TV Sunday, December 14 at 9:00pm, ET (tape delay on West Coast) from Sony Picture Studios in Culver City , CA . 

About Spike TV

Spike TV is available in 97.7 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks.  A unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), MTV Networks is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike TV's Internet address is www.spike.com. 

Luke Skywalker's Lightsaber, C-3PO's droid helmet, Harrison Ford's Indiana Jones Hat, Whip and Machete and Christian Bale's Batman cowl to highlight three million dollar sale of Hollywood Memorabilia at Profiles In History on December 11, 2008

An Extraordinary Auction To Include Costumes, Scripts, Posters, Inscribed Books and Fine Art From Superman, Indiana Jones, Star Wars, Bond, X-Men, The Terminator and more, and will have something for every Movie and TV Fan's holiday wish list

Calabasas, CA - Mark Hamill's hero "Luke Skywalker" lightsaber from Star Wars and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back ($150,000-$180,000), the original 82-inch diameter hero "United Planets Cruiser C-57D" flying saucer filming miniature from Forbidden Planet ($80,000-$120,000); three volume presentation First Editions of The Lord of the Rings with Elvish inscription with all three volumes signed by J.R.R. Tolkien ($80,000-$120,000), Harrison Ford's "Indiana Jones" hero machete from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom ($80,000-$100,000) and a First British Edition of You Only Live Twice inscribed by Ian Fleming to the real James Bond ($60,000-$80,000) highlight just some of the 500+ iconic pieces of Hollywood history that Profiles in History (www.profilesinhistory.com), the number one company in the world for authentic Hollywood memorabilia, will offer in their 33rd Hollywood auction, which will be held December 11, 2008. Worldwide bidding begins at 12:00pm (PST). Bids can be placed either in person, via mail, phone, fax or live on the Internet via eBay Live Auctions (www.ebayliveauctions.com) or (www.LiveAuctioneers.com). What better place to find a gift for the film or TV fan that has everything-or thought that they did!

A full-sized animatronic "Joe" from Mighty Joe Young, expected to sell for $80,000-$120,000 is one of 42 lots comprised of the spectacular work of six-time Academy Award winner Rick Baker will also be included in the auction. A signed letter of authenticity by Baker's Cinovation Studios accompanies all of these pieces. The consignor will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each piece to the Motion Picture Relief Fund and Country Home in Woodland Hills, CA.

Other featured items include a Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi original "C-3PO" droid helmet worn by Anthony Daniels ($60,000-$80,000), a custom-built "1937 Mercedes" German staff car from Raiders of the Lost Ark ($60,000-$80,000), a signature "Wolverine" black leather battlesuit from X-Men ($60,000-$80,000), Harrison Ford's signature "Indiana Jones" fedora hat and whip from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom ($40,000-$60,000 each), Bruce Lee's handwritten notebook for his intended book entitled The Tao of Chinese Gung Fu ($40,000-$60,000), the original Harvey Stephens "Damien" tricycle from The Omen ($30,000-$50,000), Marlon Brando's complete signature "Jor-El" costume from Superman: The Movie ($30,000-$50,000), an extremely rare set of all seven Harry Potter books inscribed and signed by J. K. Rowling ($30,000-$50,000), James Dean's signature screen-worn "Jett Rink" vest from Giant ($30,000-$40,000), Jimi Hendrix's original guitar strap used at the Woodstock Music and Art Festival in 1969 ($25,000-$35,000) and a complete, original shooting script for The Wizard of Oz ($10,000-$15,000).

Other well-known props include an original screen-used "Santa Jack" stop-motion puppet, dog "Zero" puppet, skeleton reindeer puppet and Jack's prop trashcan with presents from A Nightmare Before Christmas ($25,000-$35,000), Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi original "C-3PO" droid hands worn by Anthony Daniels ($20,000-$30,000), original screen-used "Freddy the Flute" prop from H.R. Pufnstuf ($12,000-$15,000), hero screen-used "Wrath of God" ghost puppet from Raiders of the Lost Ark ($12,000-$15,000), signed Batman Utility Belt From The 1960s TV Series, Batman ($4,000-$6,000), the original John Travolta hero articulated angel wings from Michael ($4,000-$6,000), and Arnold Schwarzenegger's sunglasses From Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($2,000-$3,000).

Additional screen-worn costumes include Arnold Schwarzenegger's signature "T-800 Terminator" costume from Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($20,000-$30,000), Jim Carrey's complete signature "Riddler" costume from Batman Forever ($20,000-$30,000), a screen-used frozen "Robin" costume and display from Batman And Robin, ($20,000-$30,000), Christian Bale's signature "Batman" cowl from Batman Begins ($15,000-$20,000), an original "Gorn" costume from Star Trek: The Original Series episode "Arena" ($10,000-$12,000), Robert Redford's signature suit from The Sting ($10,000-$12,000), Susannah York's "Lara" costume from Superman: The Movie ($10,000-$12,000), a complete screen-used Jaffa costume with working serpent helmet from Stargate SG-1 ($10,000-$12,000), Dean Cain's Superman costume from Lois And Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman ($8,000-$10,000), Sally Field's nun's habit from The Flying Nun ($6,000-$8,000), Heath Ledger's armor from A Knights Tale ($6,000-$8,000), Christopher Reeve's "Clark Kent" costume from Superman III ($5,000-$7,000) and Hugh Jackman's signature costume from Van Helsing ($10,000-$12,000).

Art, photo and book collectors will have the opportunity to purchase rare pieces of Hollywood fine art and author-inscribed books including a Josephine Baker's first film, Die Konigin Von Paris [La Revue Des Revues; The Revue of Revues] Austrian poster ($40,000-$60,000), a First British Edition of The Spy Who Loved Me, inscribed by Ian Fleming to Richard Chopping ($40,000-$60,000), The Black Pirate one-sheet poster ($40,000-$60,000), a First British Edition Of Goldfinger, inscribed By Ian Fleming ($30,000-$50,000), an extremely rare set of all seven Harry Potter books inscribed and signed by J. K. Rowling ($30,000-450,000, a First British Edition of Thunderball inscribed By Ian Fleming ($25,000-$35,000), a First British Edition of For Your Eyes Only: Five Secret Occasions In The Life Of James Bond, inscribed by Ian Fleming ($20,000-$30,000), a First American Edition of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone inscribed to her father and stepmother! ($15,000-$18,000), a Greta Garbo portrait by Clarence Sinclair Bull from Inspiration ($4,000-6,000), a Greta Garbo portrait by Clarence Sinclair Bull from Mata Hari ($4,000-$6,000), a King Kong, Fay Wray and cast members composite exhibition portrait by Ernest A. Bachrach from King Kong ($4,000-$6,000) a map of Middle Earth from Lord of the Rings, signed by J.R.R. Tolkien ($4,000-$6,000), an original poster advertising Ian Fleming's James Bond novel, Thunderball ($4,000-$6,000), and an Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein one-sheet poster ($4,000, $6,000).

Prior Hollywood auctions conducted by Profiles in History have included the sale of the original "Cowardly Lion" costume from The Wizard of Oz ($805,000), an original, screen-used, full-scale model T-800 Endoskeleton from Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($488,750), a Star Wars T.I.E. Fighter for $402,500, an original King Kong "six-sheet" movie poster ($345,000), the Command Chair and platform from the "U.S.S. Enterprise" ($304,750), the original "Robot" from Lost in Space ($264,500), Luke Skywalker's light saber from Star Wars ($195,500), the Black Beauty car from The Green Hornet ($192,000), George Reeves' Superman costume from The Adventures of Superman ($126,500), the H.R. Giger designed Alien creature suit from the film Alien ($126,500), a screen-used, full-scale T-Rex head from Jurassic Park ($126,500), a Christopher Reeve "Superman" costume from Superman: The Movie ($115,000), The Wizard of Oz "Winkie" Guard Costume ($115,000), a hydraulic screen-used Velociraptor from The Lost World: Jurassic Park II ($115,000), Charles Middleton "Ming the Merciless" cape from Flash Gordon ($115,000) and Michael Keaton's complete "Batman" costume from Batman Returns ($103,500).

"I find people buy their memories," says Joe Maddalena, owner of Profiles in History, the nation's leading dealer of guaranteed-authentic original historical autographs and vintage Hollywood memorabilia. "It's all about memories, taking us back to a time, perhaps an event with a long lost relative who took you as a kid to see Star Wars. The baby boomers have come into the spending part of their lives. They have had success and are collecting their childhood. They want 50s, 60s and 70s TV collectibles or memorabilia, as this era of TV was such a huge part of their lives."

High and low resolution art of all items is available upon request. For more information about Profiles in History and to download a complete catalog of items available for auction, please visit www.profilesinhistory.com.

About Profiles in History:
Founded in 1985 by Joseph Maddalena, Profiles in History is the nation's leading dealer in guaranteed-authentic original historical autographs, letters, documents, vintage signed photographs and manuscripts. Profiles in History has held some of the most prestigious and successful auctions of Hollywood memorabilia. Their auctions include costumes, props and set pieces from both vintage and contemporary film, television, and rock 'n roll. Profiles in History's location in Calabasas Hills, CA- virtually a stone's throw away from every major Hollywood studio - ensures a constant flow of fantastic and rare collectibles. With an extensive network of dealers, collectors, and institutions, they are proud to play an important role in the preservation of motion picture history.
 

JACK BLACK TO HOST SPIKE TV’S 2008 “VIDEO GAME AWARDS”

6^th Annual Celebration To Include Mind-Blowing World Premieres Of God Of War III, Brütal Legend, Fight Night Round 4,

Mafia II, Terminator Salvation, Uncharted 2, Watchmen: The End is Nigh, A Special Gears Of War 2 Announcement

And Other Surprises

Premieres LIVE Sunday, December 14 At 9:00 PM ET

New York, NY, December 2, 2008 – On Sunday, December 14^th, the future is in play when Jack Black, one of the entertainment industry’s most versatile and talented stars, takes viewers on a trip to gamer heaven as host of Spike TV’s 2008 “Video Game Awards.”  Recognizing outstanding artistic and technical achievement in the gaming industry, plus premiering first-looks at the hottest games of 2009 and beyond, the 2008 “VGAs” debuts LIVE and in HIGH-DEFINITION on Sunday, December 14 (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/tape delay on west coast) from Sony Picture Studios in Culver City , CA .

In emceeing the night’s festivities, Black will be capping a 2008 which saw him star in two Hollywood blockbusters, “Tropic Thunder” and “Kung Fu Panda” that grossed over $800 million worldwide combined.  Also, he will star opposite Michael Cera in director Harold Ramis’ June 2009 release of  “The Year One.” 

“Jack is a huge gamer and a former performer and winner on the ‘VGAs’ having taken home Best Performance By A Human – Male in 2005,” said Casey Patterson, Spike TV’s senior vice president, event production and talent development. “We're thrilled to have him as our host.  With a record 10 world premieres including Brütal Legend starring Jack, it will be a big night and wild ride!”

In addition to the world premiere of Brütal Legend gameplay from designer Tim Schafer (Grim Fandango and Psychonauts) and Double Fine Productions, the 2008 “VGAs” will be stacked with an unprecedented number of wall-to-wall world exclusives.  Games scheduled to make their global debut include the first look at the gameplay of the PlayStation 3™ exclusive God of War III, Uncharted 2, EA’s Sports Fight Night Round 4, Mafia II, Terminator Salvation, Watchmen: The End is Nigh, a special announcement regarding Gears of War 2 and more blockbuster surprises set to be revealed shortly.

At the show, legendary game designer Will Wright will receive the first-ever Gamer God award for his achievements in the gaming industry.  Other industry luminaries set to attend include Game of the Year-nominees Hideo Kojima (designer, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots), Cliff Bleszinski (design director, Gears of War 2), Todd Howard (executive producer, Fallout 3), Alex Evans (co-founder, Media Molecule, creators of LittleBigPlanet), Rockstar Games and more names soon to be announced.

The official sponsors of Spike TV’s 2008 “Video Game Awards” are Burger King®, GameStop™, Gillette®, Energizer®, Mountain Dew, Stride® Gum , U.S. Army and Verizon Wireless.

Nominees and winners for Spike TV’s 2008 “Video Game Awards” were determined by the VGA Advisory Council, made up of a group of the top journalists in the industry.  Games released between December 2, 2007 and December 1, 2008 were eligible for nomination.  The Best Independent Game Fueled by Dew winner will be selected by fans who vote on VGA.Spike.com.

Albie Hecht, Oscar®-nominated producer and co-creator of the “Kids’ Choice” and “Video Game Awards,” and Casey Patterson, senior vice president, event production & talent development for Spike TV will serve as executive producers of Spike TV’s 2008 “Video Game Awards.”  Greg Sills is supervising producer and Alicia Portugal is executive in charge of production.

Spike TV is available in 97.7 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks.  A unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), MTV Networks is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike TV’s Internet address is www.spike.com

ANIME EXPO® LAUNCHES 2009 WEBSITE

Videos, Contests, Guests and Much More

Anaheim, California (November 28, 2008) ‹ With the huge success of the 2008
convention, Anime Expo® blazes into the future as it launches its most
visually stimulating and user-friendly site to date! More information can be
found on the website www.anime-expo.org <http://www.anime-expo.org> .

The new website includes a video player (currently with video highlights
from the 2008 convention and information about Los Angeles), easier
navigation as well as the incorporation of the ³Twitter² tool for die hard
convention attendees that want up-to-date information as soon as it is
available. Attendees will be able to obtain accurate information regarding
programming, panels, concerts, events and all that has to do with the
biggest anime and manga convention in the U.S. Industry and press attendees
will be able to access many more features including pre-registration for
themselves as well as access to some Industry and Press only events (i.e.
SPJA Industry Conference and the official Anime Expo® Guest of Honor Press
Junket).

Attendees, Press and Industry Members are also encouraged to view the video
coverage site of the 2008 convention at www.AXBackstage.org.

About Anime Expo®
Located in Los Angeles, California - Anime Expo®, the nation¹s largest
anime/manga convention, serves to foster trade, commerce and the interests
of the general public and animation/ comics industry.  This event serves as
a key meeting place for the general public to express their interest and
explore various aspects of anime/manga, as well as for members of the
industry to conduct business. AX 2009 will be held July 2 ­ July 5, 2009 at
the Los Angeles Convention Center in Southern California. More information
can be found at its website (www.anime-expo.org).

About Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation
The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA) is a non-profit
organization with a mission to popularize and educate the American public
about anime and manga, as well as provide a forum to facilitate
communication between professionals and fans. This organization is more
popularly known by its entertainment property ­ Anime Expo®.  More
information can be found at its website (www.spja.org <http://www.spja.org>
).

The statements made in this press release that are not historical facts are
"forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are based on
current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and
uncertainties. The Company cautions readers of this press release that a
number of important factors could cause Anime Expo®/SPJA¹s actual future
results to differ materially from those expressed in any such
forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation,
product delays, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and
industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of
relationships with key personnel, vendors and third-party developers,
international economic and political conditions. The Company may change its
intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based upon
any changes in such factors, in the Company's assumptions or otherwise. The
Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any
forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date
hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Don't miss the season finale of STORM CHASERS, Sunday, December 7 at 10 pm ET/PT.  Thanks and have a great Thanksgiving!

Spike TV Announces Nominees and Categories for 6th Annual 'Video Game Awards'

2-Hour Event Will Reveal Blockbuster World Premiere Footage For The Most Anticipated Releases

Features An Exclusive Performance By Hip-Hop Star 50 Cent; Legendary Game Designer Will Wright To Be Honored With Gamer God Award

Premieres Sunday, December 14 At 9:00 PM, ET

NEW YORK, Nov. 13 - Spike TV announces the nominees and categories for the year's most acclaimed celebration in the excellence of gaming -- the 2008 "Video Game Awards." The sixth annual "VGAs" will bring together megastars from the worlds of video games, Hollywood, music, sports and more to celebrate the outstanding achievements within the video game industry over the past year. The 2-hour extravaganza will premiere LIVE on Spike TV Sunday, December 14 at 9:00pm, ET/PT (tape delay west coast) from Sony Picture Studios in Culver City, CA.
 

The 2008 "Video Game Awards" will feature exclusive premiere footage from the industry's most highly anticipated releases. On VGA.Spike.com, Spike TV will reveal one, new world-premiere each Wednesday leading up to the live telecast on December 14. The very first exclusive to be announced is EA Sports' Fight Night Round 4. In addition, fans can log onto VGA.Spike.com to view the latest, breaking news on this year's event.
 

Multi-platinum selling hip-hop artist 50 Cent will perform his brand-new single "Get Up" from his fourth major label album, Before I Self Destruct. During the performance, 50 Cent will bring to life the gaming experience from his upcoming video game, 50 Cent: Blood in the Sand, with exclusive video and choreography.
 

Leading the way with nine nominations, including a nod for Game of the Year, is Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto IV, while LittleBigPlanet, Fallout 3 and Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots all notched seven nominations. November's hottest release, Gears of War 2, garnered four nominations. Below are several of the nominees and categories, while the full list can be found at VGA.Spike.com.
 

The celebration will also honor legendary game designer Will Wright with the Gamer God award for his groundbreaking achievements in the world of gaming. The genius behind SimCity, The Sims, and 2008 mega-hit SPORE, Wright will mark the first ever winner of this prestigious honor.
 

Additionally, during tonight's (11/13/08) 9:00 PM presentation of "TNA: iMPACT!" on Spike TV, "GameTrailers TV" host Geoff Keighley will break in live at 10:15 PM to announce additional categories and breaking news for the event.
 

Nominees and winners for Spike TV's 2008 "Video Game Awards" were determined by the VGA Advisory Council, made up of a group of the most, well-respected experts in the industry. Games released between December 2, 2007 and December 1, 2008 were eligible for nomination. The Best Independent Game Fueled by Dew winner will be selected by fans who vote on VGA.Spike.com.
 

The official sponsors of Spike TV's 2008 "Video Game Awards" are Burger King(R), GameStop(TM), Gillette(R), Energizer(R), Mountain Dew, Stride(R) Gum and Verizon Wireless.

Following are several of the nominees and categories for Spike TV's 2008 "Video Game Awards:"
 

Albie Hecht, Oscar(R)-nominated producer and co-creator of the "Kids' Choice" and "Video Game Awards," and Casey Patterson, senior vice president, event production & talent development for Spike TV will serve as executive producers of Spike TV's 2008 "Video Game Awards." Greg Sills is supervising producer and Alicia Portugal is executive in charge of production.
 

Spike TV is available in 97.7 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. A unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , MTV Networks is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike TV's Internet address is www.spike.com

OVER 10 MILLION IMAGES FROM THE LIFE PHOTO ARCHIVE TO BE MADE AVAILABLE ON GOOGLE
----
Among the Largest Professional Photography Collection on Web; 97% of LIFE’s Archive Has Never Been Seen By the Public

New York, NY (November 18, 2008) – Access to LIFE’s Photo Archive – over 10 million images in total - will soon be available on a new hosted image service from Google, Time Inc. has announced. Ninety-seven percent of the photographs have never been seen by the public. The collection contains some of the most iconic images of the 20th century, including works from great photojournalists Alfred Eisenstaedt, Margaret Bourke-White, Gordon Parks, and W. Eugene Smith.

These images can be found when conducting a search on Google.com or on Google Image Search. Users can also search through the LIFE Collection directly by visiting http://images.google.com/hosted/life.

The LIFE Photo Archive featured on Google will be among the largest professional photography collections on the Web and one of the largest scanning projects ever undertaken. Millions of images have been scanned and made available on Google Image Search today with all 10 million images to be available in the coming months.

“For 70 years, LIFE has been about one thing, and that’s the power of photography to tell a story,” says Andy Blau, LIFE’s President. “LIFE will now reach a broader audience and engage them online with the incredible depth and breadth of the LIFE Photo Archive from serious world events, to Hollywood celebrities to whimsical photographs.” Time Inc. EVP, John Squires adds: “We’re delighted Google recognized the rich value of our photo archive and worked with us to bring it to millions of consumers. Consistent with the launch of the TIME Archive, PEOPLE Archive and the SI Vault, this initiative continues our efforts to build valuable new revenue opportunities from our rich heritage.”

All keywords are translated into 16 different languages. LIFE’s Photo Archive will be scanned and available on Google Image Search free for personal and research purposes. Copyright and ownership of all images will remain with Time Inc.

“Bringing millions of never-before-seen offline images online aligns with Google’s mission to organize all the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful,” said R.J. Pittman, Director of Product Management at Google. “The LIFE Photo Archive captures some of the most compelling events, people and places of the past two hundred years. We have enhanced Google Image Search to provide our users with a rich search and browse experience to explore these high quality historical images.”

In addition to housing some of the most important images taken by LIFE photographers, the LIFE Photo Archive also includes: The Zapruder film of the Kennedy assassination; The Mansell Collection from London; Dahlstrom glass plates of New York and environs from the 1880’s; Hugo Jaeger Nazi-era Germany 1937-1944; DMI red-carpet celebrity shots; Pix Inc. personalities; the entire works left to the Collection from LIFE photographers Alfred Eisenstaedt, Gjon Mili, and Nina Leen.

LIFE also announces the most comprehensive offering to date to purchase fine art photographic prints online. The general public will now have access to buy LIFE’s famous photography through QOOP.com, a leader in online art sales.

About LIFE Inc.
LIFE Inc. publishes books under the LIFE brand, syndicates photography through Getty Images, and operates LIFE.com through a joint venture with Getty Images. The LIFE Photo Archive is a working photography library dedicated to cataloging, scanning, researching, digitizing and trafficking images. LIFE Inc. is a subsidiary of Time Inc.

conic Metal Band KEEL Reunites In 2009

ORIGINAL MEMBERS PERFORM TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 20 YEARS

FOR THE BAND’S 25^TH ANNIVERSARY

HOLLYWOOD, CA (November 18th, 2008) - 2009 will mark iconic metal band KEEL’s 25^th anniversary, and the passing of two decades since the original lineup played on stage together. Unlike most of their contemporaries, none of the members has ever performed as KEEL since 1989.

Ron Keel, guitarists Marc Ferrari & Bryan Jay, drummer Dwain Miller along with Geno Arce (Ron’s long-time bassist) are preparing to perform again for the first time in 20 years. “It would not have been right without these guys,” expresses Ron Keel. With the high volume of requests for the band to reunite, the members felt the time is right to deliver the show fans everywhere have been demanding: a KEEL reunion.

In 1985, “The Right To Rock” became the fastest-selling debut album in A&M Record’s history. Selling over 2 million albums the band was proclaimed the Best New Band by Metal Edge and Circus Magazines.

The title track was a hit on radio & MTV and remains a staple on VH1 Classic, in addition to the group’s subsequent hits “Tears Of Fire,” “Because The Night,” “Somebody’s Waiting,”and “Rock & Roll Outlaw.” They developed a reputation as one of the genre’s most entertaining live acts, opening for heavyweights like Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, and Van Halen amongst many others.

Plans are for KEEL to reunite at a select number of festivals and showcase dates in 2009 to perform all their hits and classic favorites in celebration of 25 years of rock n roll history. The KEEL “Debut Reunion Concert” will take place in Hollywood on Saturday, January 31^st. The location for this historic event will be Club Vodka at The Knitting Factory – visit the web site and MySpace for details.

For more information go to http://keelreunion.com and http://myspace.com/keelband

WHAT:  Yoyo MAKES HER CANDIDACY OFFICIAL AT HER FIRST PRESS CONFERENCE FOR THE OFFICE OF WHITE HOUSE Presidential Puppy:

For The Change Pets Need

In the weeks since President-Elect Barack Obama’s historic victory, the most pressing question on everybody’s mind is the most surprising of all: who’s going to be the presidential puppy? During his eloquent speech on Election Night, in which he declared that “change has come to America ,” Obama promised his two young daughters, Malia and Sasha, a puppy when they move into the White House, carrying on a long tradition of famous Presidential Pets. But who is the right pet for America ’s New First Family?

Yoyo is a native of New Orleans , where she survived Hurricane Katrina, and she is a rescue dog, which would show the Obamas’ support of shelters throughout the country. She is hypoallergenic, which is a necessity because of Malia’s allergies. This housetrained, well-groomed four-year-old Puli is energetic, friendly, and very diplomatic, just in case Vladimir Putin brings his Russian wolfhound over for a run!           

WHEN:          Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at 10:00 AM

WHERE:       Hyatt Regency Century Plaza
2025 Avenue of the Stars
Olympic 1 Room

                        Complimentary Valet Parking

WHO:             Yoyo and her bodyguards, Baldwin, a fellow Puli and Bliss, an Australian Shepherd. Members of the press, both four feet and two are welcome. Yoyo will be available for questions.

Yoyo’s Puli Party Platform:

Yoyo supports American Humane and hopes to change the nation’s approach to choosing their pets, putting rescue and shelter dogs into all American homes. Her personal motto is “No More Drama,” and she encourages dogs everywhere to unite and put conflict behind them, volunteer in their communities, avoid chewing on furniture, and remember that their similarities (four legs, cute noses, tails) are far greater than their differences.

Starz Declares - "We Are 'Spartacus!'"

Starz Productions and Raimi/Tapert/Donen to Create an All New Action Series Exclusive to Starz Channels and Additional Platforms

Premium Service Continues Push Into Original Drama and Comedy Series That Pair With Lineup of Top Hollywood Feature Films

BURBANK, Calif. and ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Oct. 27 -- The world of gladiators comes to life as the Roman Empire's most brutal fighters clash in the ultimate arena. Starz's new series, "Spartacus," an entirely new twist on the ancient legend, will utilize virtual environments giving it a unique graphic novel look and style, along with a fresh narrative approach. Debuting exclusively on Starz, "Spartacus" will be produced by Starz Media with Executive Producers Sam Raimi, Rob Tapert and Joshua Donen. The announcement was made today by Stephan Shelanski, executive vice president, programming, for Starz Entertainment. It will begin production in early 2009, debuting on Starz and its suite of channels later in the year.
 

This is the second original drama series on Starz, and the first drama produced in-house by the premium service's studio sibling, headed by William Hamm, executive vice president, originals productions. Hamm brought the project to the channel.
 

Steven S. DeKnight ("Smallville," "Buffy the Vampire Slayer") has been signed as head writer and show-runner of the series, which was developed by Raimi (Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2, Spider-Man 3 and Evil Dead), Tapert (The Grudge, "Xena: Warrior Princess" and "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys") and Donen (The Quick and the Dead) and is being produced in New Zealand by Starz Media's Starz Productions. DeKnight is one of the most sought after Producer/Director/Writers in television and is currently consulting on Joss Whedon's "Dollhouse" and tapped to write for the upcoming season eight in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer comic book series.
 

From the talented team responsible for some of the biggest action feature film hits, and consistently popular action TV series, "Spartacus" will take the story of the rebellious warrior-slave and re-imagine it for a generation of TV viewers raised on graphic novels and cutting-edge production technology. Audiences will get 13 hour-long episodes of unsparing action, set in the brutal world of gladiators. Because the series is being produced for Starz -- the fastest-growing premium television service -- there is no shortage of intense action and vivid, R-rated storytelling. This will be a TV series with an original narrative and a very unique look and feel.
 

"When 'Spartacus' debuts in the summer of 2009, it will give our subscribers a show unlike anything currently on TV: a fresh, high-energy action series with nothing held back," Shelanski said. "We think it will be the destination show for next summer. It, along with our other original productions underscores our commitment to being a new kind of TV company, programming the biggest movies and the best new television series."
 

"By utilizing the latest digital filmmaking techniques to create the look of this series, we'll be able to tell the story in a way never before seen with production values far beyond what even the most ambitious TV series can offer," Tapert said. Raimi added "It is going to be very exciting to take one of the most beloved and inspiring characters of all time, re-invent and bring them to life for a whole new generation of TV viewers."
 

Starz's new "Spartacus" series was inspired by the actual slave of the Roman Republic who in 73 BC led a slave revolt that grew to more than 120,000 fighters. Defying the Roman Republic's legions of soldiers, they campaigned for two years through much of what is now Italy before succumbing to a much larger army. The new series will tell a new set of stories rich in character, action, sex and combat.
 

Starz Media's Anchor Bay Entertainment will hold exclusive worldwide home entertainment distribution rights to "Spartacus," while the company's Worldwide Distribution group will handle international television and domestic syndication sales.
 

"Spartacus" is just the latest original series for Starz. Its first dramatic series, "Crash," a co-production from Starz Entertainment and Lionsgate, premiered Oct. 17. Starz Media will also produce "Party Down" for Starz, debuting in early 2009, the companies announced recently. These come on the heels of Starz's original half-hour comedy series, "Head Case," which stars Alexandra Wentworth and is currently in production on additional episodes. Starz also features "Starz Inside," a monthly series of original specials examining people, trends and culture in entertainment, hosted by film critic Richard Roeper.
 

About Starz Media
 

Starz Media, LLC, is a programming production and distribution company operating worldwide. It includes the Film Roman, Anchor Bay Entertainment, and Manga Entertainment brands. Its units create animated and live-action programming -- including theatrical films -- and programming created under contract for other media companies. It distributes that programming, and programming acquired from outside producers, through home video retailers, theaters, broadcasters, ad supported and premium television channels, and Internet and wireless video distributors in the US and internationally.

About Starz Entertainment
 

Starz Entertainment, LLC, is a premium movie service provider operating in the United States. It offers 16 movie channels including the flagship Starz(R) and Encore(R) brands with approximately 17 million and 31.3 million subscribers respectively. Starz Entertainment airs more than 1,000 movies per month across its pay TV channels and offers advanced services including Starz HD, Encore HD, Starz On Demand, Encore On Demand, MoviePlex On Demand, Starz HD On Demand, Encore HD On Demand, MoviePlex HD On Demand, and Starz Play. Starz Entertainment (http://www.starz.com/) is an operating unit of Starz, LLC, which is a controlled subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation, and is attributed to Liberty Entertainment Group, a tracking stock group of Liberty Media Corporation.

 

Source: Starz Entertainment, LLC
 

Web site: http://www.starz.com/
 

Favorite TV Families Go Head-to-Head for the Title of 'First Family' at TVLand.com

Network Reveals Newly Elected 'First Family' of TV Land With Marathon on Sunday, November 2

NEW YORK, Oct. 27 - Are the endless commentaries from all the TV political pundits zapping all the excitement out of Election Day for you? If so, TV Land is inviting viewers to take a break and enjoy some entertainment by taking part in another kind of election! Beginning immediately, the network invites viewers to log onto TVLand.com to vote for their favorite television family to crown them the "First Family." Viewers can vote for the Taylors (Andy, Aunt Bea and Opie of "The Andy Griffith Show"), the Sanfords (Fred, Lamont and Aunt Esther of "Sanford and Son"), or the Clampetts (Jed, Granny, Elie-Mae, and Jethro of "The Beverly Hillbillies") to see who wins the title. Clips of each of the sitcoms will be streaming online for viewers to relive each contender's best. . . and worst moments.
 

"We're excited to offer our viewers a brief escape from the nation's upcoming crucial election," states Larry W. Jones, president of TV Land. "If there is one thing we can all come together on, it's great, comedic American television."
 

All the viewer votes will be tallied and TV Land will air the winning "First Family" during an 8-hour marathon starting Sunday, November 2, 2008 from 8PM to Monday, November 3, 2008, 4AM (ET/PT).
 

About TV Land PRIME and TV Land:
 

TV Land PRIME is TV Land's prime time programming destination designed for people in their mid-forties and the exclusive home to the premieres of the network's original programming, contemporary television series acquisitions and movies. TV Land PRIME is part of TV Land, a network dedicated to presenting the best in entertainment on all platforms for consumers in their 40s and 50s. Consisting of original programming, acquired shows, hit movies and full-service web site, TV Land is now seen in over 93 million U.S. homes. For up-to-the-minute and archival press information including releases and photographs, please visit TV Land's press-only Web site at www.tvlandpress.com.
 

About MTV Networks
 

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 150 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 300 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.
 

Source: TV Land

'Tis the Season to Be Funny! The World Television Premiere of 'Jeff Dunham's Very Special Christmas Special' Debuts Sunday, November 16 at 9:00 P.M.*

Encore Presentations Air Sunday, November 16 At 10:00 P.M.,

Tuesday, November 18 At 10:00 P.M. And 12:00 A.M.,

November 23 At 9:00 P.M. And Friday, November 28 At 10:00 P.M.

NEW YORK, Oct. 27 -- Let laughter light up the tree this year! Jeff Dunham and his puppet pals take the stage for an unforgettable evening of holiday-themed ventriloquist comedy. The World Premiere of "Jeff Dunham's Very Special Christmas Special" airs on COMEDY CENTRAL Sunday, November 16 at 9:00 p.m.
 

The encore presentations air Sunday, November 16 at 10:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 18 at 10:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m., November 23 at 9:00 p.m. and Friday, November 28 at 10:00 p.m.
 

There are chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at children's noses and some dude's hand up a puppet's a$$?!? It sounds like Christmas is here for Jeff Dunham and he's bringing his family to meet COMEDY CENTRAL stand-up fans! Sure, no one wants to keep Grandpa company when he's being a grump, so let the ever-sarcastic Walter keep him busy as he rails against a world full of peckerheads. Puppet extraordinaire Melvin the Superhero can use his X-ray vision to see if the turkey is cooked all the way through, but don't ask him to carry it, because he's pretty weak. For those who can't handle their girlfriend's family much longer, don't do anything drastic! Achmed the Suicide Bomber proves there's no light at the end of the tunnel, just Jeff Dunham. His family might be plastic, but that doesn't mean viewers can't celebrate Christmas and the holiday season with them! Don't miss this hilarious, one-man, many-puppet showcase, premiering only on COMEDY CENTRAL.
 

After the success of "Arguing With Myself" and "Spark of Insanity," his first two one-hour specials on COMEDY CENTRAL, Dunham is back with all-new, laugh-out-loud action! Performing 40 weeks and 250 dates a year in concert venues, comedy clubs and countless private corporate appearances, Jeff Dunham is one of the most sought-after entertainers working today. Dunham has made numerous appearances on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and he was recently nominated "Comedian of the Year" by the Music City News Country Awards.
 

COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network, currently is seen in more than 95 million homes nationwide. COMEDY CENTRAL is owned by, and is a registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned division of Viacom Inc.'s (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) MTV Networks. COMEDY CENTRAL's Internet address is www.comedycentral.com. For up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs visit Press Central, COMEDY CENTRAL's press Web site at www.comedycentral.com/press.
 

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of entertainment content, with brands that engage and connect diverse audiences across television, online, mobile, games, virtual worlds and consumer products. The company's portfolio spans more than 150 television channels and 350 digital media properties worldwide, and includes MTV, VH1, CMT, Logo, Harmonix, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Noggin, The N, AddictingGames, Neopets, COMEDY CENTRAL, Spike TV, TV Land, Atom, Gametrailers and Xfire.
 

*All Times ET/PT
 

Source: COMEDY CENTRAL Corporate Communications

Web Site: http://www.comedycentral.com/
 

Jerry O'Connell ('Crossing Jordan'), Lauren Stamile ('Grey's Anatomy') and Academy Award(R) Winner Faye Dunaway ('Chinatown') to Star in Lifetime Original Movie 'Nora Roberts' Midnight Bayou' to Premiere in 2009 on Lifetime

Additional Nora Roberts Adaptations Include 'Nora Roberts' High Noon,' 'Nora Roberts' Tribute' and 'Nora Roberts' Northern Lights'

#1 New York Times Best-Selling Author, Roberts Has Over 300 Million Books in Print

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 27  -- The Lifetime Original Movie "Nora Roberts' Midnight Bayou," starring Jerry O'Connell ("Crossing Jordan"), Lauren Stamile ("Grey's Anatomy") and Faye Dunaway ("Chinatown") is the second of the 2009 Nora Roberts' movie slate to begin production. Additional adaptations include "Nora Roberts' High Noon," "Nora Roberts' Tribute" and "Nora Roberts' Northern Lights." Mandalay Television and Stephanie Germain Productions will produce the film with Peter Guber and Stephanie Germain serving as executive producers.
 

In making the announcement, Tanya Lopez, Senior Vice President, Original Movies, Lifetime Networks, said, "'Nora Roberts' Midnight Bayou' is a love story with a twist that will not disappoint loyal Nora Roberts fans. We are thrilled to have popular television stars Jerry O'Connell, Lauren Stamile, and the incomparable Faye Dunaway in the cast."
 

The four previous Nora Roberts' movies that aired on Lifetime Television in 2007 together reached over 34 million viewers total and "Nora Roberts' Angels Fall" was the highest rated Lifetime Original Movie of 2007.
 

In "Nora Roberts' Midnight Bayou," Harvard-educated lawyer Declan Fitzpatrick (O'Connell), impulsively gives up his settled life to buy Manet Hall, a newly restored plantation manor near New Orleans which he has always found himself drawn to. Legend has it that the house is haunted, and shortly after Declan moves in he starts hearing voices and seeing things. Declan is also distracted by an undeniable attraction to Cajun local Lena Simone (Stamile), who grew up on the bayou with her grandmother Odette (Dunaway), and has her own deep connection to the manor. Living in the house, Declan begins to have visions from a century past and details of events that took place in the mansion. With the help of Odette, Declan and Lena realize that they are inextricably linked with Manet Hall and uncover a shocking secret that has been hidden there for more than one hundred years.
 

With an impressive body of work that encompasses television, film and theatre, Jerry O'Connell is one of Hollywood's most versatile actors. O'Connell began his acting career at the age of 11, when he co-starred in the classic feature film "Stand By Me," directed by Rob Reiner. He then took a break from acting and returned to it after completing his education at New York University. He went on to receive critical acclaim for his role as Cush in "Jerry Maguire," with Tom Cruise. His additional feature film credits include "Yours, Mine and Ours," "Kangaroo Jack," "Tomcats," "Scream 2" and "Mission to Mars." On television he has starred in "Crossing Jordan," "Do Not Disturb," "Carpoolers" and "Sliders." O'Connell's additional television credits include guest-starring roles in "Samantha Who," "Ugly Betty," "Las Vegas," "Without a Trace" and the miniseries "The '60s."
 

Born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Lauren Stamile performed in her first play at age four. After majoring in theater at Northwestern University, Stamile moved to New York and Hollywood to pursue acting professionally. She is best known for her role as "Nurse Rose" on the hit ABC series, "Grey's Anatomy." Stamile has had starring roles in the made-for-television movie "Behind the Camera: The Unauthorized Story of Charlie's Angels" and The WB series "Off Centre." Her guest-starring roles on television include "Scrubs," "Heroes," "Boston Legal," "NUMB3RS," "Criminal Minds," "The West Wing," "Cold Case," "Crossing Jordan" and "Without a Trace."
 

Emmy(R), Golden Globe(R) and Academy Award(R)-winning actress Faye Dunaway made her acting debut on Broadway in 1962. Her first big screen role came in 1967 in "The Happening," and her first starring role was shortly after in "Bonnie and Clyde," opposite Warren Beatty. Her extensive film credits include "Chinatown," "The Arrangement," "The Three Musketeers," "The Towering Inferno," "Mommie Dearest," "Don Juan DeMarco," "Network," "The Thomas Crown Affair," "Jennifer's Shadow" and "The Rules of Attraction." Her television credits include "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," "Alias," "It Had to Be You" and "Touched by an Angel," as well as numerous made-for-television movies including, "Cold Sassy Tree," "Rebecca," "Running Mates," "A Will of Their Own" and "A Family Divided."
 

The Nora Roberts' adaptations join an impressive list of novels developed into Lifetime Original Movies including the top rated basic cable movie for 2008, "The Memory Keeper's Daughter," starring Dermot Mulroney, Emily Watson and Gretchen Mol, and Jodi Picoult's "The Tenth Circle," starring Kelly Preston, Ron Eldard and Brittany Robertson.
 

Since publishing her first novel in 1981, Roberts has gone on to become a #1 New York Times best-selling sensation. With more than 300 million books in print, Roberts' novels have spent a combined 138 weeks at the #1 spot on the coveted Times list. In addition, since 1999, every book published under her name has hit the New York Times best seller list. Amazon.com recently reported that Roberts is their third most popular author -- following only Tom Clancy and JK Rowling. Roberts is a member of several writers groups and has won countless awards from her colleagues and the publishing industry. Nora Roberts is represented by literary agent Amy Berkower at Writers House, LLC and by CAA. Nora Roberts' books are published by Penguin Group (US).
 

"Nora Roberts' Midnight Bayou" is produced by Mandalay Television and Stephanie Germain Productions for Lifetime Television. Peter Strauss ("The Jacket"), Peter Guber ("Rainman," "Batman," "The Color Purple," "The Jacket") and Stephanie Germain (Lifetime's "Gracie's Choice," "The Day After Tomorrow") are the executive producers. Gideon Amir ("The Mists of Avalon") will serve as producer. Stephen Tolkin (Lifetime's "Nora Roberts' Carolina Moon") wrote the teleplay and Ralph Hemecker (Lifetime's "Nora Roberts' Angels Falls") will direct.
 

In addition to the first four Nora Roberts Lifetime Original Movies, through her production company, Stephanie Germain produced TNT's Johnson & Johnson presentation of Richard Paul Evan's bestseller, "A Perfect Day," starring Rob Lowe; and Lifetime's "Gracie's Choice," starring Kristin Bell, Diane Ladd and Anne Heche, who received an Emmy(R) nomination for her performance. "Gracie's Choice" premiered in January 2004 and became one of cable's highest rated films. Some additional credits include: the highest rated television movie of its season, CBS' "The Pilot's Wife," based on Anita Shreve's bestseller and starring Emmy(R) and Oscar(R) award winner Christine Lahti; the ABC special effects extravaganza "Superfire," created by best-selling authors Richard Preston and Doug Preston; ABC's "King of the World: The Muhammad Ali Story," based upon the book by Pulitzer Prize winner David Remnick and starring Terrence Howard; ABC's "Holiday In Your Heart," starring LeAnn Rimes and Bernadette Peters; CBS' miniseries "The Doris Duke Story," starring Lauren Bacall and Richard Chamberlain; and the TBS premiere movie "Fatal Error," starring Janine Turner. Germain co-produced Showtime's one hour series, "Jeremiah," starring Luke Perry, for two seasons. She was also an executive producer on the blockbuster "The Day After Tomorrow," starring Dennis Quaid and Jake Gyllenhaal, and directed by Roland Emmerich ("Independence Day").
 

Mandalay Television has achieved great success in series, long form television movies and miniseries. Mandalay's critically acclaimed, Peabody Award-winning series "Brotherhood" is entering its third season on Showtime. Mandalay movies and miniseries have produced some of the strongest ratings of all-time, including Dean Koontz's "Intensity," a four-hour miniseries based on the best seller by Dean Koontz -- the highest rated miniseries ever on FOX Broadcasting; "First Daughter," a two-hour original movie starring Muriel Hemingway for TBS which was the highest rated basic cable movie in history and spawned two sequels, "First Target" and "First Shot"; "Blood Crime," which launched USA's Crime Friday and was the highest rated original program for the network in 2002; and "The Linda McCartney Story" for CBS. Mandalay Television has recently completed production on "RPM," a ground breaking microseries for TNT starring Johnathon Schaech.
 

Lifetime is the leader in women's television and one of the top-rated basic cable television networks. A diverse, multi-media company, Lifetime is committed to offering the highest quality entertainment and information programming, and advocating a wide range of issues affecting women and their families. Lifetime Television, Lifetime Movie Network, Lifetime Real Women and Lifetime Digital (including myLifetime.com) are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, a 50/50 joint venture of Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company.
 

Source: Lifetime Networks

Web Site: http://www.mylifetime.com/
 

John Stamos ('ER') and Robin Tunney ('The Mentalist') Star in the Lifetime Original Movie 'The Two Mr. Kissels,' Premiering Saturday, November 15

Based on the Shocking True Story of the Deaths of Two Multi-Millionaire Brothers and the Trail of Money, Mansions and Mayhem They Left Behind

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 23 -- John Stamos ("ER") and Robin Tunney ("The Mentalist") star in the Lifetime Original Movie "The Two Mr. Kissels," based on the shocking true story of two multi-millionaire brothers who both married the women of their dreams and wound up dead. "The Two Mr. Kissels" premieres on Saturday, November 15, at 9PM (ET/PT) on Lifetime Television.
 

In "The Two Mr. Kissels," real estate mogul Andrew Kissel (Stamos) marries sporty blond ski instructor, Hayley Wolff (Gretchen Egolf, "Journeyman"), while his younger brother Rob Kissel (Anson Mount, "Conviction"), a New York investment banker, marries social climber Nancy Keeshin (Robin Tunney). On the surface, it seems that both the Kissel brothers are starting idyllic families. After Rob moves his family to Hong Kong for a promotion, Nancy grows to resent his long work hours. In retaliation, Nancy begins a torrid affair and ultimately kills Rob by drugging him and bludgeoning him to death, igniting worldwide media frenzy. Years later, Andrew is caught embezzling millions of dollars to support his increasingly lavish lifestyle and drug addiction. With the courts breathing down his neck, former business partners turning on him, and a frustrated and embarrassed wife filing for divorce, Andrew is found dead in the basement of his Greenwich mansion. The question remains: was Andrew murdered by one of his many enemies, or did he arrange it himself in order to escape his living nightmare?
 

"The Two Mr. Kissels" is produced by Dairy Road Productions, Inc. and Dan Wigutow Productions, Inc. for Lifetime Television. Dan Wigutow (Lifetime's "Murder on Pleasant Drive," "Revenge of the Middle-Aged Woman") served as executive producer, John Stamos ("Martin and Lewis," "The Beach Boys: An American Family") produced and Michael Scott (Lifetime's "Tell Me No Lies" and "Murder on Pleasant Drive") co-executive produced. Ed Bianchi ("Mad Men," "Deadwood") directed from a script written by Maria Nation (Lifetime's "The Tenth Circle," "Icebound").
 

Lifetime is the leader in women's television and one of the top-rated basic cable television networks. A diverse, multi-media company, Lifetime is committed to offering the highest quality entertainment and information programming, and advocating a wide range of issues affecting women and their families. Lifetime Television, Lifetime Movie Network, Lifetime Real Women and Lifetime Digital (including myLifetime.com) are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, a 50/50 joint venture of Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company.
 

Source: Lifetime

Web Site: http://www.lifetimetv.com/
 

Belinda, Vikki Carr, Flex, David Lee Garza, Juanes, and Rosario to Perform on 9th Annual Latin GRAMMY(R) Awards

ACTORS CRISTIAN DE LA FUENTE AND PATRICIA MANTEROLA TO CO-HOST THE BIGGEST NIGHT IN LATIN MUSIC

Buika, Karyme Lozano, Eugenio Siller, and Mayrin Villanueva Added as Presenters for the Latin Music Industry's Premier Event Taking Place at Houston's Toyota Center and Airing Live on the Univision Network Nov. 13

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Oct. 23 -- 2008 Latin Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Vikki Carr, Flex featuring Belinda, David Lee Garza, Juanes, and Rosario are the latest performers announced for the 9th Annual Latin GRAMMY(R) Awards telecast, it was announced today by The Latin Recording Academy(R). Actors Cristian de la Fuente and Patricia Manterola will host the Latin music industry's premier event. Confirmed to present awards are current Latin GRAMMY nominee Buika, and actors Karyme Lozano, Eugenio Siller, and Mayrin Villanueva. The 9th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards will take place on Nov. 13 at the Toyota Center in Houston and will be broadcast on the Univision Network from 8 - 11 p.m. ET/PT (7 p.m. Central).
 

International superstar Juanes is nominated for five awards: Album Of The Year and Best Male Pop Vocal Album for La Vida ... Es Un Ratico, and Record Of The Year, Song Of The Year and Best Short Form Music Video for "Me Enamora." Reggaeton artist Flex has two nods for Best Urban Music Album (Te Quiero) and Best Urban Song ("Te Quiero"). Latin pop artist Rosario is up for Best Female Pop Vocal Album (Parte De Mi).
 

Previously announced performers include current Latin GRAMMY nominees Cafe Tacvba, Kany Garcia, Alejandra Guzman, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Olga Tanon and Julieta Venegas. Previously announced presenters feature actors Daniela Castro, Cesar Evora and Eduardo Santamarina; current Latin GRAMMY nominees Ednita Nazario and Ximena Sarinana; and two-time GRAMMY(R) and nine-time Latin GRAMMY winner Juan Luis Guerra.
 

Preceding the Awards show telecast, Univision will present exclusive "Noche de Estrellas" (Night of the Stars) coverage of the celebrity arrivals direct from the Latin GRAMMY Awards Green Carpet starting at 7 p.m. ET/PT (6 p.m. Central). Presented by "Primer Impacto" co-anchor Barbara Bermudo and host of "Nuestra Belleza Latina" Giselle Blondet, "Noche de Estrellas" will feature live interviews and commentary on the stars and their fashions, and provide viewers an intimate and up close look at Latin music's most glamorous gala event.
 

The 9th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards will feature 49 categories and will be supported on radio via Univision Radio (the official Spanish-language radio network of the Latin GRAMMY Awards), and highlighted on the Internet by Univision Online (the official Spanish-language Web site of the Latin GRAMMY Awards) at www.univision.com (Uniclave Latin GRAMMY). For more information and a complete list of nominees, please visit www.grammy.com. Tickets are available to the general public and can be purchased at the Toyota Center Box Office at www.toyotacentertix.com, or by dialing 1.866.4HOUTIX (1.866.446.8849).
 

The Latin Recording Academy is an international, membership-based organization comprised of Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking recording artists, musicians, songwriters, producers and other creative and technical recording professionals. The organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life and cultural condition for Latin music and its makers. In addition to producing the Latin GRAMMY Awards to honor excellence in the recorded arts and sciences, The Latin Recording Academy provides educational and outreach programs for the Latin music community. For more information about The Latin Recording Academy, please visit www.grammy.com.
 

Source: Latin Recording Academy

Web site: http://www.grammy.com/
 

YOUR ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND
A DVD SIGNING MEDIA VIP EVENT
FOR OSCAR WINNING ACTRESS SHIRLEY JONES
 FOR THE NATIONAL LAUNCH
OF
 Hollywood Singing and Dancing: A Musical History-A Two Disc Special Collector's Edition

Wednesday October 15th from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Borders Books Flagship Store Mini-Amphitheater
1360 Westwood Blvd. Westwood, CA 90024 (2 blocks south of Wilshire)
Free Underground Parking

 

Media has been invited to interview Shirley Jones, expected celebrities, crew, staff, dancers, actors and producers.

About Dean Guitars

Since 1977, Dean Guitars has been providing guitar players with the finest in electric guitars, bass guitars, acoustic guitars, amps, cases, banjos, mandolins, and related gear. Dean Guitars is also proud to announce the NEW! Dean Pickups line! Guitar Pickups from your favorite Dean Artists. Get your wings today! You will not find a better guitar anywhere.  www.deanguitars.com

Spike Digital Entertainment and Playboy Premiere 'Playmate Show & Tell' on Spike.com

- Playboy Playmates Host Ultimate "How-To" Online Series for Guys -

NEW YORK, Oct. 6 - Spike.com, a division of MTVN Entertainment Group, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , and Playboy (PEI) (NYSE:PLA) (NYSE:PLAA) announced today the launch of "Playmate Show & Tell." This new "how-to" online original series is the first project to be unveiled under Spike Digital Entertainment's digital development and production deal with Playboy.com. Alta Loma Entertainment, Playboy's in-house production division recently involved in successful movie and TV projects such as "The House Bunny" and E!'s "The Girls Next Door," also participated in the development and production. "Playmate Show & Tell" is a 10-episode online series, with new episodes premiering each week.
 

"We're very excited to be able to welcome the iconic Playboy brand to Spike.com and to present Playmate Show & Tell as the first of many joint ventures with them," said Jon Slusser, senior vice president, digital & video games for Spike TV. "'Playmate Show & Tell' is the perfect blend of beautiful women, humor and information guys need that is sure to resonate with our audience."
 

"Playmate Show & Tell" (http://playmate.spike.com/) is hosted by three Playboy Playmates -- Playmate of the Year 2008 Jayde Nicole, Playmate of the Year 2007 Sara Jean Underwood, and Miss May 2006 Alison Waite -- and premieres on both spike.com and playboy.com. This humorous and informative series teaches guys how to deal with women in a variety of potentially awkward situations. In each of the 10 online episodes, the Playmates travel to new locations to give guys a hands-on lesson in dealing with the opposite sex. From dating, to buying the perfect gift, to the proper way to give a massage, "Playmate Show & Tell" gives guys the tips and tricks to win over the ladies.
 

"At Playboy, our goal is to continually create compelling content for our global audience by leveraging the combined power of our iconic lifestyle brand and Playmate franchise," said Chris Petrovic, vice president, Playboy Media Group. "Partnering with Spike, we collaboratively have developed the first of many programs that achieves this goal and I am confident that our combined audiences will be really pleased."
 

Spike TV is available in 97.3 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. A unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , MTV Networks is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike TV's Internet address is www.spike.com.
 

Playboy is one of the most recognized and popular consumer brands in the world. Playboy Enterprises, Inc. is a media and lifestyle company that markets the brand through a wide range of media properties and licensing initiatives. The company publishes Playboy magazine in the United States and abroad and creates content for distribution via television networks, Web sites, mobile platforms, DVD and radio. Through licensing agreements, the Playboy brand appears in more than 100 countries on a wide range of consumer products, entertainment locations and retail stores.
 

Source: Spike TV

Cartman has the Solution to the China ProblemWhen All-New Episodes of 'South Park' Premiere on Wednesday, October 8 at 10:00 P.M.* on COMEDY CENTRAL(R)

All-New Season 12 Episodes Available Uncensored On iTunes, xBox LIVE, Amazon Video On Demand And SouthParkStudios.com

NEW YORK, Oct. 6 -- Cartman seems to be the only person aware of the gathering threat the Chinese pose to the United States in an all-new episode of "South Park" titled, "The China Problem." Fresh off an Emmy(R) win for the "Imaginationland" trilogy, "South Park" returns with seven all-new episodes beginning Wednesday, October 8 at 10:00 p.m. on COMEDY CENTRAL.
 

After watching the intimidating opening ceremonies of the recent Olympic Games, Cartman understands that the Chinese are only just days away from invading his homeland. While the rest of the American people are haunted by the memory of a recent tragic event, only Butters will stand with Cartman as he confronts the Chinese.
 

Launched in 1997, "South Park," now in its 12th season, remains the highest-rated series on COMEDY CENTRAL. "South Park" repeats Wednesdays at 12:00 a.m., Thursdays at 10:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. and Sundays at 11:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m.
 

Co-creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone are executive producers, along with Anne Garefino, of the Emmy(R) and Peabody(R) Award-winning "South Park." Frank C. Agnone II is the supervising producer. Eric Stough, Adrien Beard, Bruce Howell, Kyle McCulloch and Erica Rivinoja are producers. "South Park's" Web site is www.southparkstudios.com. Currently, South Park Studios is hosting "Six Days to South Park," a behind-the-scenes mini-doc depicting how the series, well known for its ability to be extremely topical, is made from start to finish in under a week.
 

Source: COMEDY CENTRAL Corporate Communications

It's Twisted TV Voyeurism At Its Best - 'The Sarah Silverman Program Season Two: Volume One (Uncensored)' DVD Hits Stores on Tuesday, October 14

Bonus Features Include The Cast And Creators At 2007's Comic-Con, Digital Shorts, Behind-The-Scenes And Audio Commentary With The Creators And The Entire Cast

New Episodes Of "The Sarah Silverman Program" Premieres On Wednesday, October 8 At 10:30 P.M. ET/PT And A Second Premiere Episode Will Air On Thursday, October 9 At 10:30 P.M., Settling Sarah And The Gang Into Their Regular Timeslot

NEW YORK, Oct. 6 - It's Sarah Silverman's world and we're all just spectators. Follow Sarah and the rest of the gang as she becomes romantically involved with God and decides to become "black" for a day to prove it's harder to be Jewish, deports her cleaning lady, joins a radical anti-abortion group and licks her dog's anus. Spend a few hours in Sarah's world where viewers come for the brilliant writing and performances, but you stay for the farts. TIME magazine hails the show, "As filthy and sweet as an X-rated lollipop." Released via COMEDY CENTRAL Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment, "The Sarah Silverman Program Season Two: Volume One (Uncensored)" DVD arrives in stores nationwide on Tuesday, October 14 and will also be available at http://shop.comedycentral.com/.
 

"The Sarah Silverman Program Season Two: Volume One (Uncensored)" DVD is a completely uncensored two disc-set featuring over one-hour of bonus material including the cast and creators at 2007's Comic-Con, digital shorts, "Cookie Party," behind-the-scenes and audio commentary with the creators and the entire cast.
 

COMEDY CENTRAL's hit series, "The Sarah Silverman Program," premieres on Wednesday, October 8 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT. A second premiere episode will air on Thursday, October 9 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT, settling Sarah and the gang into their regular timeslot. Sarah Silverman's world is back and it's better than ever. Join Sarah and the rest of the gang as she discovers marijuana, brings a lawsuit against the country of Mongolia and finds her father whom she thought was dead.
 

"The Sarah Silverman Program" stars Silverman portraying a character (aptly named Sarah Silverman) whose absurd daily life is told through narrative and an occasional song. In each episode, Sarah falls into unique, unsettling and always hilarious predicaments, with her sister Laura (played by real-life sister Laura Silverman), her nerdy gay neighbors, Brian and Steve (Brian Posehn and Steve Agee) and dim-witted Officer Jay (Jay Johnston) never far from her side.
 

Sarah Silverman is a three-time Emmy(R) Award-nominee and recently received her first Emmy for the wildly popular "I'm F*&%ing Matt Damon" video. Silverman made an impressive splash when the feature-length film version of her stage show, "Jesus is Magic," was met with critical acclaim upon its release in 2005. Silverman garnered rave reviews in the documentary feature "The Aristocrats," in which she co-starred along with 100 of the industry's most prominent comedians. She also starred opposite Jack Black, Mike White and Joan Cusack in Paramount Picture's "The School of Rock," among others. Silverman recently wrapped filming the independent feature "Saint John of Las Vegas" opposite Steve Buscemi and Peter Dinklage.
 

Laura Silverman is best known for her role in HBO's series, "The Comeback." She also appeared in her sister's film, "Jesus is Magic" and is the voice of Dr. Katz' assistant in "Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist." Brian Posehn is best known for his role in "Just Shoot Me" as well as appearances in "Seinfeld," "Newsradio," and "Everybody Loves Raymond." Steve Agee's credits include "Jesus is Magic" and Bobcat Goldthwait's film, "Sleeping Dogs Lie." Jay Johnston can be seen in the film "Anchorman" and appeared in the HBO television series, "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Mr. Show" and the FOX television series, "Malcolm in the Middle."
 

The series is based on an idea by Silverman, Dan Harmon and Rob Schrab (Oscar-nominated "Monster House"). Silverman, Schrab, Heidi Herzon ("Jesus is Magic") and Dan Sterling ("The Daily Show") are the executive producers. Schrab and Sterling also serve as director of some of the episodes. Gary Mann is the executive in charge of production for COMEDY CENTRAL.
 

COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network, currently is seen in more than 95 million homes nationwide. COMEDY CENTRAL is owned by, and is a registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned division of VIACOM Inc.'s (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) MTV Networks. COMEDY CENTRAL's Internet address is www.comedycentral.com. For up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs visit Press Central, COMEDY CENTRAL's press Web site at www.comedycentral.com/press.
 

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of entertainment content, with brands that engage and connect diverse audiences across television, online, mobile, games, virtual worlds and consumer products. The company's portfolio spans more than 150 television channels and 350 digital media properties worldwide, and includes MTV, VH1, CMT, Logo, Harmonix, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Noggin, The N, AddictingGames, Neopets, COMEDY CENTRAL, Spike TV, TV Land, Atom, Gametrailers and Xfire.
 

Source: COMEDY CENTRAL Corporate Communications

Web Site: http://sarahsilverman.comedycentral.com/
http://shop.comedycentral.com/

Hail to the Lil' Chief! 'Lil' Bush: Resident Of The United States Season Two (Uncensored)' DVD Hits Stores on Tuesday, October 14

Guest Voices Include Kevin Federline, Phil Lesh (Grateful Dead), Fred Schneider And Kate Pierson (The B-52's), Joel And Benji Madden (Good Charlotte) And Joe Escalante

Bonus Materials Include 'My Lil' Bush' Music Video, Custom Animated Shorts And Animatics, And Audio Commentary

NEW YORK, Oct. 6 -- Lil' George and his Lil' Cronies are back for more cover-ups, conspiracies and hot dogs than ever. These freckle-faced kiddies get themselves in and out of crazy misadventures faster than you can say "Heckuva job!" For them, it's all part of life in the Lil' Executive Branch. Witness the Gang taking on big pharmaceutical companies, joining George Sr. on a camping trip to Baghdad, Lil' George and Lil' Vladimir Putin starting a schoolyard rivalry and Lil' George attempting to smoke Osama out of his hole in Afghanistan. Released via COMEDY CENTRAL Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment, "Lil' Bush: Resident Of The United States Season Two (Uncensored)" DVD arrives in stores nationwide on Tuesday, October 14 and will also be available at http://shop.comedycentral.com/.
 

"Lil' Bush: Resident Of The United States Season Two (Uncensored)" DVD is a completely uncensored double disc set and features the following bonus materials: "My Lil' Bush" music video, custom animated shorts and animatics and audio commentary.
 

"Lil' Bush" presents Dubya as the animated future president, along with his cronies Lil' Condi, Lil' Rummy (voiced by Iggy Pop), and Lil' Cheney. Hiding out from Bar and George Sr., these precocious pre-pubescents terrorize the White House and solve the world's problems before bedtime. The second season brings all-new challenges to the Lil' Gang, including a bigger presence from the other side of the aisle as the Lil' Dems, featuring Lil' Hillary Clinton, Lil' Barack Obama (voiced by Tim Meadows), Lil' Al Gore and Lil' Nancy Pelosi, are joined this season by new characters including Lil' John Edwards and Tiny Dennis Kucinich. Republican reinforcements for the new season include Lil' Rudy Giuliani, Lil' Mitt Romney, Lil' Fred Thompson and the mastermind himself, M.C. Karl Rove (voiced by Kevin Federline).
 

Featured guest voices for the second season include Kevin Federline, Phil Lesh (Grateful Dead), Fred Schneider and Kate Pierson (The B-52's), Joel and Benji Madden (Good Charlotte) and Joe Escalante.
 

Originally made as animated shorts for Amp'd Mobile, "Lil' Bush" comes from creator and executive producer Donick Cary, ("The Simpsons," "The Late Show with David Letterman") and co-executive producer Jay Karas. Zoe Friedman is the executive in charge of production for COMEDY CENTRAL. Animation is done by Sugarshack Animation. "Lil' Bush" is the first show to make the transition from mobisode to television series.
 

Paramount Home Entertainment (PHE) is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , a global entertainment company that produces and distributes filmed entertainment through the Paramount Motion Picture Group. PHE is responsible for the worldwide sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment products on behalf of various parties including: Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks SKG, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, CBS, PBS and Hasbro and for providing home entertainment fulfillment services for DreamWorks Animation Home Entertainment.
 

COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network, currently is seen in more than 95 million homes nationwide. COMEDY CENTRAL is owned by, and is a registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned division of VIACOM Inc.'s (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) MTV Networks. COMEDY CENTRAL's Internet address is www.comedycentral.com. For up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs visit Press Central, COMEDY CENTRAL's press Web site at www.comedycentral.com/press.
 

Source: COMEDY CENTRAL Corporate Communications

Web Site: http://www.comedycentral.com/
 

Gabe The Bulldog Fetches Top Dog Honors in Nick at Nite's First Annual Worldwide Fido Awards Saluting the Family Dog Sunday, October 5

Judges Kevin Nealon, Vivica Fox and Dog Trainer to the Stars Tamar Geller were (Bow) Wowed by Feats of Six Finalists

'Buddy' from Arizona Grabbed the Hero Award; Kristin Davis Named Dog's Best Friend

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Oct. 6 - A toilet-flushing, skateboarding bulldog named Gabe from Bellingham, Washington (bow) wowed the celebrity judges of Nick at Nite's First Annual Worldwide Fido Awards -- telecast on Sunday, October 5 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT -- to fetch top dog honors. The champ triumphed over five other talented finalists, including a deep diving Labrador Retriever and a Schubert-humming Golden Retriever. All were revealed, showcased and saluted in the one-hour canine competition honoring the family dog, hosted by actor/comedian Fred Willard (Best in Show) and judged by Kevin Nealon, Vivica Fox and dog trainer to the stars Tamar Geller.
 

Having received the most online votes at www.worldwidefido.com, where viewers chose their favorites from user-generated videos, the Fido finalists who took home a bone in his or her "dog-egory" are as follows:
 

In a show highlight, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Arizona was awarded the Hero Award, to honor invaluable services provided to humans. Buddy made news last summer after saving his human's life by calling 911 after he had suffered a seizure.
 

In addition, the evening's sole human award winner, Kristin Davis, garnered the Dog's Best Friend Award for her commitment to fostering abandoned dogs. Pooch performances, including dog tricks and relays, entertained the audience throughout the evening.
 

The First Annual Worldwide Fido Awards were sponsored by PetSmart and Bissell.
 

Launched in 2007 by Worldwide Biggies -- the digital entertainment studio headed by children's and family entertainment hit maker Albie Hecht -- Worldwide Fido has emerged as a popular online community for dog lovers where users upload videos of their beloved canines. Worldwide Biggies is redefining entertainment by creating hit properties for young adults and the digital family. Designing properties that launch on the web and live on multiple media platforms, it is a full-service studio that is uniquely positioned to take advantage of new technology and content distribution channels to create a library of original and licensed hits.
 

Nick at Nite is Nickelodeon's nighttime programming block that also features popular hit family comedies including the Emmy Award-winning series Home Improvement, George Lopez, and Family Matters, as well as The Fresh Prince of Bel Air and Roseanne. Also coming in 2009 is the hit comedy Everybody Hates Chris, from co-creator and narrator Chris Rock and inspired by his real-life childhood experiences.
 

Nickelodeon, now in its 29th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in more than 96 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 14 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) .
 

P

Source: Nick at Nite

http://www.worldwidefido.com/

Leonardo DiCaprio Kicks Off IFAW's Animal Action Week

YARMOUTH PORT, Mass., Oct. 6 -- Leonardo DiCaprio and IFAW (the International Fund for Animal Welfare - www.ifaw.org) today announced the start of Animal Action Week, one of the world's largest environmental education programs. This year's Animal Action Week theme, "Beneath the Waves," highlights the challenges the world faces to protect the ocean and marine wildlife from the impact of human activities.
 

"The world's ocean and marine wildlife are one of our Earth's most valuable treasures, yet today they face more threats than ever before," said Mr. DiCaprio, an Honorary IFAW Board Member. "It's our responsibility to protect this vital ecosystem and the animals that live there if we want to leave a better world for future generations."
 

"We are proud to join forces with Leonardo in our global mission to safeguard animals and the environment," said Fred O'Regan, President of IFAW. "His steadfast commitment is vital in our efforts to educate the environmental leaders of tomorrow and empower them to act now to turn the tide on ocean threats."
 

For more than 15 years, Animal Action Week has taught children worldwide about the value of animal welfare and conservation. Organized by IFAW, the program will reach some six million young people in 18 countries this year alone.
 

IFAW encourages teachers and children across the globe to engage with nature during Animal Action Week, which takes place annually during early October. The week marks the launch of an international educational program with a different animal welfare and conservation theme each year.
 

To get started, IFAW offers a FREE education pack and 15-minute film all about protecting wildlife in the oceans. The curriculum-based materials are available in two versions, one for elementary students (Grades 3-4) and one for middle school (Grades 5-9). Go to IFAW.org for more details.
 

The program also aims to raise awareness among young people and their families that their everyday activities -- even hundreds of miles from the coast -- can impact ocean life.
 

"Together we can set an example for the rest of the world in protecting the ocean and marine wildlife," said Mr. DiCaprio. "Our individual actions and the life style choices we make really matter. The hope is you."
 

About IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare)
 

Founded in 1969, IFAW works around the globe to protect animals and habitats promoting practical solutions for animals and people. To learn how you can help, please visit www.ifaw.org.
 

Source: International Fund for Animal Welfare

Web Site: http://www.ifaw.org/
 

High School Musical 3 Breaks Records With the Biggest Advance Bookings for a Movie in Cinema History!

LONDON, October 3 With 3 weeks to go before High School Musical graduates to the big screen, High School Musical 3: Senior Year has broken records with the fastest and biggest advance sales ever in movie history, beating previous record holder "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" and "The Lord of the Rings" and all the Bond films.
 

Audience demand to see the first major cinema event in the phenomenal High School Musical franchise has ensured that some performances are already sold out, with still 3 weeks to go before the film is on general release.
 

As of 1st October, cinemas across the UK have already taken advance bookings to the total of half a million pounds. Odeon Cinemas, the UK's largest chain puts their total in advance bookings at GBP245, 205. This beats Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the previous all time record holder, which had taken GBP227k at the same stage of booking and which went on to gross GBP48.3m.
 

Rupert Gavin, CEO of Odeon & UCI Cinema Group says: "This is a phenomenal and record breaking start for High School Musical 3. Our cinemas have been inundated with calls to pre-book tickets for what could be the year's biggest kids and teen audience movie. With schools breaking up for half term just as High School Musical 3 opens, we at Odeon are bracing ourselves for a huge first week run."
 

Meanwhile fans are preparing for the arrival of all the stars of the film - Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Corbin Bleu and Britain's own new wildcat, Jemma McKenzie-Brown - who arrive in London on Tuesday 7th October for the UK Premiere in Leicester Square.
 

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3: SENIOR YEAR is released only in cinemas on Wednesday October 22nd2008, throughout the UK. Certificate U (tbc). Running time: 111 mins
 

Source: Walt Disney Pictures

VH1 Represented Hip Hop to the Fullest at the 5th Annual 'VH1 Hip Hop Honors'

TRIBUTES TO THIS YEAR'S HONOREES CYPRESS HILL, DE LA SOUL, NAUGHTY BY NATURE, SLICK RICK AND TOO $HORT SET THE STAGE ON FIRE

THE 5TH ANNUAL "VH1 HIP HOP HONORS" HOSTED BY TRACY MORGAN, PREMIERES MONDAY, OCTOBER 6 AT 10 PM* ON VH1 AND SOUL

BEGINNING MONDAY, OCTOBER 6 CATCH EXCLUSIVE FOOTAGE AND PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS ON HIPHOP.VH1.COM AND FOR THE FIRST TIME IN "VH1 HIP HOP HONORS" HISTORY, WATCH THE FULL SHOW IN ITS ENTIRETY THE DAY AFTER THE ON-AIR PREMIERE

New York, Oct. 2 -- VH1 brought down the house tonight at the 5th annual "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" as the best of the best in hip hop royalty came together for one legendary night to honor the ones who came before them and transformed the genre into a true cultural phenomenon.
 

Taped at the Hammerstein Ballroom this evening (Thursday, October 2) in New York City and hosted by Tracy Morgan, the music and influence of each of the honorees was recognized through performances by classic artists in collaboration with today's hottest new talent. This year, "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" paid tribute to Cypress Hill, De La Soul, Naughty By Nature, Slick Rick and Too $hort.
 

The Cypress Hill tribute kicked off the night with an introduction by Freddy Rodriguez. Fat Joe, Jim Jones and Gym Class Heroes drove the crowd insane with the group's hit songs "The Phuncky Feel One," "I Ain't Goin' Out Like That," and "Insane In the Membrane." Cypress Hill lit up the stage with performances of "DJ Scratch Intro," "How I Could Just Kill A Man," and "(Rock) Superstar."
 

Actress Joy Bryant introduced the second tribute of the night, honorees De La Soul, who took it way back with performances from Estelle, Mos Def, Chuck D, Flavor Flav, Cee-Lo and EPMD. They tore the roof off with the group's biggest hits, "A Roller Skating Jam Named 'Saturdays,'" "Stakes Is High," "Potholes In My Lawn," and "Ego Trippin.'" Topping off the performance, De La Soul broke it down true old school style reminding the crowd that they can still get down, breaking out in a medley of old school rhymes from "Me, Myself and I" to a remix of "Buddy!"
 

The show continued on a "slick" note with hits that defined Slick Rick's solo career. Legendary rapper MC Lyte kicked off the tribute with "The Ruler's Back." The crowd went crazy when Busta Rhymes and Spliff Star took the stage performing the "The Show" which brought everyone to their feet. They led into a true hip hop medley with the legendary Biz Markie and Ghostface Killah singing "La Di Da Di." Finally Eve took the stage with her rendition of the eclectic hip hop chart topper "Mona Lisa." Slick Rick then took to the stage performing "Hey Young World" and "Children's Story."
 

Next, in honor of R&B legend Isaac Hayes, a medley of artists took the stage to salute the icon. Mos Def took the stage first, outfitted in dark shades, setting it off with the hit theme song from "Shaft." Next British sweetheart Estelle performed a remix of "I Love You," and Cee-Lo kept the crowd grooving with "The Look of Love." Next on stage, Scarface dazzled the crowd with "My Mind Is Playing Tricks On Me." Closing out this special tribute was Chuck D with "Black Steel In The Hour of Chaos."
 

Hip hop entrepreneur and producer Luke Campbell took the stage to introduce Too $hort. Luke talked about how he set the stage and paved the way for Too $hort to become the artist he is today. Also paying homage to Too $hort, Kid Rock gave a thrilling performance of "Life Is Too Short." Lil John got low with "Shake That Monkey" followed by a duet with Bun B of the electric "Blow the Whistle." After an intro performance of "The Ghetto" by Scarface, Too $hort got the crowd on their feet with "Gettin' It" and "Money In The Ghetto."
 

Bringing the show to an unforgettable end, Wyclef Jean, Juelz Santana and Big Boi ripped the stage with the all-time favorites, "No Woman No Cry," "Everything's Gonna Be All Right," and the monster hit "O.P.P." Naughty By Nature closed the show as only they could do, performing "Uptown Anthem" and "Hip Hop Hooray."
 

"VH1 Hip Hop Honors" on VH1.com and VH1 Mobile:
 

VH1.com's dedicated hip hop site, HIPHOP.VH1.COM, will showcase on-demand content leading up to and post "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" including:
 

"VH1 Hip Hop Honors" is executive produced by Lee Rolontz for VH1 and Jac Benson for Blackjac Entertainment. Louis J. Horvitz will direct. Nelson George and Fab 5 Freddie are co-executive producers.
 

"VH1 Hip Hop Honors" is sponsored by T-Mobile USA, Taco Bell Corp., Sears, Windows(R) and Tag RecordsTM.
 

Hold Your Water(R) clips for crew water bottles on this production provided by BOLEO(R).
 

For up-to-the-minute and archival press information including releases and photographs, visit VH1's press-only Web site at www.vh1.com/press
 

*All times ET/PT
 

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with TV series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 95 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital channels and services including

Friday, October 17
  "Crash" Series Premiere with Episodes 101 and 102
      Starz Entertainment presents the series premiere of its first original
      drama series "Crash" with episodes 101 and 102 on Starz at 10 p.m. and
      11 p.m. respectively. The show, starring Dennis Hopper along with an
      ethnically diverse ensemble cast, is executive produced by Paul Haggis
      and Don Cheadle.
      10 p.m. on Starz
      -- Episode 101: Episode 1: Axel investigates a K-Town murder. Officers
         Kenny and Bebe collide with a mysterious woman. Ben (Dennis Hopper)
         hires a limo driver from South Central and Christine insists that
         her father move in.
      -- Episode 102: The Doctor is In: Christine and Peter argue over the
         remodeling, while Lou complains about his nurse. Ben's friendship
         with the doctor puzzles Anthony and Axel tries to silence Eddie
         about the K-Town murders.


  Saturday, October 18
  Starz Saturday Premiere
      Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story (John C. Reilly, Jenna Fischer, Kristen
      Wiig)
      9 p.m. on Starz
      The rise and fall of fictional rocker Dewey Cox is told in bawdy,
      outrageous fashion in this wild spoof of traditional musical biopics.
      From the creator of Knocked Up and Pineapple Express.
 

SILENT FILM STAR THEDA BARA - STILL IN THE NEWS 90 YEARS LATER

Theda Bara's Costumes, Jewelry and Photo Collection Available at Auction for the First Time
 

Lewis Black Puts Pop Culture on Trial and Gives the Final Verdict as 'Lewis Black's Root of All Evil' DVD Hits Stores on Tuesday, September 30

Bonus Features Include Post-Ruling Interviews With Lewis And The "Lawyers," "Your Day in Court," Tips From Judge Black, "Meet the Lawyers," A Behind-The-Scenes With Judge Black

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 22  YouTube. Dick Cheney. What do they have in common? They all make Lewis Black's blood boil. Check out the abrasive comedian as he takes on pop culture in an open debate setting. A rotating group of comedians take the stage and argue who or what is most evil with Black making the final decision. Released via COMEDY CENTRAL Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment, "Lewis Black's Root of All Evil: Uncensored" DVD arrives in stores nationwide on Tuesday, September 30 and will also be available at www.shop.comedycentral.com .
 

"Lewis Black's Root of All Evil: Uncensored" DVD is a two-disc set featuring all eight uncensored episodes and includes the following bonus materials: post-ruling interviews with Black and the "lawyers," "Your Day in Court," tips from Judge Black, "Meet the Lawyers," behind-the-scenes with Judge Black.
 

The series is created and executive produced by Scott Carter ("Politically Incorrect," "Real Time with Bill Maher") and David Sacks ("The Simpsons," "Malcolm in the Middle") and features the following: a fiery monologue by Black introducing the topics; "Opening Statements" - the first opportunity comedians have to state their case; "Debate" - the comedians provide verbal and video evidence to bolster their case and try to debunk each other's theories; "Inquisition" - Black grills the comedians; "Ripple of Evil" - comedians predict the dire consequences that will ensue if their evil is left unchecked; "Closing Statements" - comedians hit their message home; "Final Verdict" - Black renders his decision.
 

Comedians serving as advocates on the show include Andrew Daly ("MADtv"), Greg Giraldo ("COMEDY CENTRAL Roasts") Andy Kindler ("Late Show with David Letterman"), Kathleen Madigan (judge on last season's "Last Comic Standing"), Patton Oswalt ("Ratatouille," "King of Queens") and Paul F. Tompkins ("Mr. Show with Bob and David").
 

Evil episodes from the first season include: Oprah (Tompkins) vs. Catholic Church (Giraldo); Donald Trump (Kindler) vs. Viagra (Giraldo); Paris Hilton (Giraldo) vs. Dick Cheney (Oswalt); Beer (Daly) vs. Weed (Tompkins); YouTube (Oswalt) vs. Porn (Giraldo); Kim Jong Il (Madigan) vs. Tila Tequila (Giraldo); "American Idol" (Kindler) vs. High School (Oswalt); and Las Vegas (Daly) vs. The Human Body (Oswalt).
 

Paramount Home Entertainment (PHE) is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , a global entertainment company that produces and distributes filmed entertainment through the Paramount Motion Picture Group. PHE is responsible for the worldwide sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment products on behalf of various parties including: Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks SKG, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, CBS, PBS and Hasbro and for providing home entertainment fulfillment services for DreamWorks Animation Home Entertainment.
 

COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network, currently is seen in more than 95 million homes nationwide. COMEDY CENTRAL is owned by, and is a registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned division of VIACOM Inc.'s (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) MTV Networks. COMEDY CENTRAL's Internet address is www.comedycentral.com.

Source: COMEDY CENTRAL Corporate Communications

Web Site: http://www.comedycentral.com/
http://www.shop.comedycentral.com/
 

VH1'S Fifth Annual Hip Hop Honors Just Won't Stop! Busta Rhymes, Cee-Lo, Chuck D, Estelle, EPMD, Fat Joe, Flavor Flav, Gym Class Heroes, Jim Jones, Juelz Santana, Luke Campbell, Mack 10, Michael Rapaport, Queen Latifah and The Roots Join The Celebration

BIG BOI, BIZ MARKIE, BUN B, DJ KAOS, GHOSTFACE KILLAH, KID ROCK, MC LYTE, LIL' JON, Q-TIP, SCARFACE, WYCLEF JEAN, AND SANAA LATHAN ARE SCHEDULED TO ROCK THE HOUSE IN HONOR OF CYPRESS HILL, DE LA SOUL, NAUGHTY BY NATURE, SLICK RICK AND TOO $HORT

**NEW AIRDATE OF BROADCAST IS MONDAY, OCTOBER 6 AT 10PM ET/PT**

Comedian/Actor Tracy Morgan Returns As Host

Join the online hip hop celebration at HIPHOP.VH1.COM

NEW YORK, Sept. 22 The party is not going to stop at VH1's fifth annual "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" celebration! The talent list continues to grow with the addition of Busta Rhymes, Cee-Lo, Chuck D, Estelle, EPMD, Fat Joe, Flavor Flav, Gym Class Heroes, Jim Jones, Juelz Santana, Luke Campbell, Mack 10, Michael Rapaport, Queen Latifah and The Roots. Along with previously announced talent Big Boi, Biz Markie, Bun B, DJ Kaos, Ghostface Killah, Kid Rock, MC Lyte, Lil' Jon, Q-Tip, Scarface, Wyclef Jean, and Sanaa Lathan, hip hop's finest will turn out to pay homage at VH1's annual tribute to hip-hop luminaries who broke new ground and pioneered the genre into a true cultural phenomenon. This year's honorees include Cypress Hill, De La Soul, Naughty by Nature, Slick Rick and Too $hort.
 

The "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" broadcast will premiere on VH1 and VH1 Soul on Monday, October 6 at 10PM ET/PT.* (PLEASE NOTE NEW AIRDATE AND TIME). Tracy Morgan will once again host this year's VH1 Hip Hop Honors festivities which will tape at New York City's famed Hammerstein Ballroom on Thursday, October 2. Additional performances and appearances will continue to be announced.
 

The music and influence of each of the honorees will be recognized through performances in collaboration with some of today's hottest talent. Generations of hip hop will bridge the gap for one exceptional night to set it off with the original style and flavor that sparked and inspired the evolution of the music.
 

"VH1 Hip Hop Honors" on VH1.com and VH1 Mobile:
 

Tuesday, September 16, marked the launch of VH1.com's dedicated hip hop site, HIPHOP.VH1.COM, which showcases on-demand content leading up to and post "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" including:
 

"VH1 Hip Hop Honors" is executive produced by Lee Rolontz for VH1 and Jac Benson for Blackjac Entertainment. Louis J. Horvitz will direct. Nelson George and Fab 5 Freddie are co-executive producers.
 

"VH1 Hip Hop Honors" is sponsored by T-Mobile USA, Taco Bell Corp., Sears, Windows and Tag RecordsTM.

 

*All times ET/PT
 

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with TV series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 95 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital channels and services including VH1Classic, VH1 Soul, VH1 Mobile, VH1Games and extensive broadband video on VH1.com. Connect with VH1 at VH1.com.
 

ABOUT CITY LIGHTS MEDIA GROUP

City Lights Home Entertainment, a division of City Lights Media Group, in partnership with Warner/Elektra/Atlantic Corporation (WEA), acquires, produces, and distributes high quality entertainment fare for DVD and digital consumption. As an emerging independent theatrical and non-theatrical supplier, City Lights Home Entertainment is in the unique position to draw from its vast internal resources including its own theatrical film, television and digital production divisions, in addition to third-party co-production and distribution arrangements for video consumption around the world. Recent releases include: "The Ten," starring Paul Rudd, Jessica Alba and Winona Ryder, Rosario Dawson’s "Descent," "Brooklyn Rules," starring Alec Baldwin, Sundance Grand Jury Prize winning documentary "Manda Bala," the Holocaust documentary "A Generation Apart," the critically acclaimed foreign gem "The Year My Parents Went on Vacation," Brazil’s Official Selection for the 2008 Academy Awards, and four-time Oscar® nominated --- and William Hurt’s Best Actor Oscar ® winning role --- "Kiss of the Spider Woman."
                                                                                 

For more information, please visit www.citylightsmedia.com