Friday, December 22, 2006

Beauty Queens Heading To PAGEANT SCHOOL: BECOMING MISS AMERICA On CMT And VH1

Miss America 2007 Contestants Enroll In Pre-Pageant Training For CMT′s PAGEANT SCHOOL: BECOMING MISS AMERICA Premiering Friday, January 26 At 9:00 P.M. EST

Two-Hour Special Also Premieres On MTV Sunday, January 28 At 9:00 A.M. On VH1 Monday, January 29 At 6:00 P.M. And Logo Monday, January 29 At 3:00 P.M. And Tuesday, January 30 At 7:00 A.M.

For the first time in the history of the Miss America Pageant, all 52 contestants will meet in one location, Los Angeles, for a crash course in all things pageantry in PAGEANT SCHOOL: BECOMING MISS AMERICA, premiering Friday, January 26 at 9:00 - 11:00 p.m. on CMT. The two-hour special will also premiere on CMT sister networks, MTV on Sunday, January 28 at 9:00 a.m., VH1 on Monday, January 29 at 6:00 p.m. and Logo on Monday, January 29 at 3:00 p.m. and Tuesday, January 30 at 7:00 a.m.

PAGEANT SCHOOL: BECOMING MISS AMERICA levels the competitive playing field by helping each contestant refine their look, sharpen their skills and bring them all one step closer to the crown. Led by pageant coach and former Miss America runner-up Erika Schwartz Wright and Miss America 2006 Jennifer Berry, the show employs a distinguished panel of experts, including Miss America 1971 Phyllis George, Miss America 2001 Angela Perez Baraquio and famed pageant coach Dale Smith Thomas, who critique the contestants and provide essential instruction for their success in the pageant. Official pageant judges Delta Burke, Michael Feinstein and Debbie Allen also drop by for a special contestant Question & Answer session.

The PAGEANT SCHOOL week consists of individual preparatory events, including pageant walk training, swimsuit and beauty competitions and a unique fitness lesson designed to build physical confidence. At the end of their training, contestants nominate three hopefuls for the title of "Miss Congeniality 2007." Immediately following the telecast, viewers will be able to vote online at www.missamerica.cmt.com to award this title to one lucky contestant, with the winner being revealed live at the 2007 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT. The 2007 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT premieres on CMT Monday, January 29 at 8:00 p.m. from The Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

CMT offers fans an insider′s look at www.missamerica.cmt.com/, where they can learn more about each of the competitors. The CMT website features highlights of all 52 contestants with personal photos, videos, bios and more. In January, the network′s broadband channel CMT Loaded will feature exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews and video, including excerpts from the popular talent competition.

PAGEANT SCHOOL: BECOMING MISS AMERICA is produced by Julie Pizzi and Patty Ivins at PB&J Television, with Paul Villadolid and Nicole Zien serving as executive producers for CMT. CMT will also air PAGEANT SCHOOL on Saturday, January 27 at 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. as well as Sunday, January 28 at 2:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

The 2006 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT premiered on CMT last January and ranks as the most-watched telecast in CMT′s history. Since its premiere, re-airings of the Pageant have been seen by more than 27 million different viewers.

BET Announces Festive Star-Studded Programming Lineup To Ring In the New Years

BET J Rolls Out a Festive Star-Studded Programming Lineup to Celebrate the Holidays and Ring In the New Year!

BET J unveils its special Holiday programming lineup to celebrate the 2006 Holiday season as it wraps up a successful year of televising exceptional, quality programming for the mature viewing audience. This joyful season, the Cool Like That channel delivers a contemporary menu of adult programming favorites, including classic Jazz favorites, star-studded music specials and hot original programming for viewers to enjoy.

Viewers can expect a full array of festive programming to get them into the holiday spirit. Viewers will enjoy some memorable BET J favorites like THE CHRISTIES: COMMITTED and MY MODEL LOOKS BETTER THAN YOUR MODEL to eye- catching music specials such as the exclusive NAJEE: SAX IN SOUTH AFRICA which will take viewers on an unforgettable music journey from the exotic location of South Africa to the GERALD LEVERT SPECIAL, which takes an intimate look back at the phenomenal life and career of the late Gerald Levert, who made a historic mark in the music industry. BET J pulls out all the stops to provide viewers with a taste of its unmatched "Grown & Sexy" programming lineup guaranteed to heat up households this holiday season!

The following is a snapshot of BET J specials and original programming to look forward to this holiday season (All times are ET/PT):

BET J SPECIALS:

* BET J: THE COOLEST MOMENTS OF 2006
BET J rings in the New Year with this up-close look back at all the "Coolest Moments" of 2006! Here′s a chance for viewers to catch up on all they may have missed in this special archival footage showcasing the coolest 2006 highlights. Sunday, December 31 at 7:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m.; Monday, January 1 at 7:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m.

* LAST CALL 2006! TOP 50 COUNTDOWN
The mega-music countdown of the year happens on BET J with this special LAST CALL 2006! TOP 50 COUNTDOWN music program featuring the top 50 of the hottest "Grown & Sexy" music videos to help viewers undoubtedly ring in the New Year the right way! Sunday, December 31 at 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m.; Monday, January 1 at 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m.

* A SOUL SESSIONS CHRISTMAS
A festive hour filled with holiday-themed music videos from both today′s hottest artists and music legends. Sunday, December 24 at 10:00 p.m.

* NAJEE: SAX IN SOUTH AFRICA
The soulful sounds of jazz legend Najee are highlighted in this exclusive one-hour BET J program featuring the Grammy-nominated musician performing from the beautiful country of South Africa. Produced by veteran actress Kim Fields, viewers will enjoy this unique travel diary complete with musical performances, a visit to a youth music workshop, and an intimate visit with the Mandela family during the 10-day exotic tour throughout Johannesburg, Pretoria and Bloomfountain, South Africa. Sunday, December 24 at 8:00 p.m.

* GERALD LEVERT SPECIAL
BET mourns the lost of legendary singer Gerald Levert, a personal friend and a regular performer among many BET programs, including BOBBY JONES GOSPEL and WALK OF FAME, in this introspective tribute. Don′t miss this intimate look back on the dynamic life of one of R&B music′s most talented performers, including personal reflections from family and friends, as well as a profile of many of the music videos that touched all our hearts. Sunday, December 24 at 9:00 p.m.

BET J ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING:

* MY MODEL LOOKS BETTER THAN YOUR MODEL
Tune in for 6 episodes of BET J′s fashion bonanza featuring former America′s Top Model winner Eva Marcel. This fashion-forward show highlights three contestants who are assigned and judged on executing their own personal fashion theme on professional models in hopes of winning an opportunity to style host Eva in a TRACE magazine pictorial. At the end of each challenge, panel of celebrity and fashion judges analyze the final product. Judges include industry experts: photographer Ezequiel De La Rosa, Trace fashion editor Daphne Devallie, former Vibe fashion editor-at-large Beverly Smith, stylists Alexander Allen, Phillip Bloch and Misa Hylton-Brimm, former Suede and Honey beauty editor Mia Stokes, and best-selling author Lloyd Boston. Monday, December 25 at 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

* THE CHRISTIES: COMMITTED
BET J′s THE CHRISTIES is unlike any reality series you′ve ever seen. As cameras follow the life of NBA star Doug Christie and his all-too- controlling wife Jackie, the twosome can′t help but to captivate audiences with their unconventional style of marriage, commitment and unbreakable love. Here′s an opportunity to catch up on any episodes you may have missed when the Cool Like That network rolls out 8 episodes featuring Doug and Jackie in all their matrimonial glory! Monday, December 25 at 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

* MY TWO CENTS
BET J rolls out a sizzling marathon of original programming that is sure to satisfy viewers′ palates for the holidays. MY TWO CENTS, BET J′s engaging roundtable talk-show jumps off the special marathon with 5 hot episodes featuring host Keith Boykin and an array of diverse guest panelists, including April Silver and Crystal McCrary Anthony to discuss everything from politics to healthcare. Monday, December 25 at 6:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

* REAL LIVE DIVAS

Don't miss 2 fresh episodes of the sexy new series REAL LIVE DIVAS that showcases today′s most formidable African-American women such as Sheryl Lee Ralph, Veronica Webb, Tracey Reese and many more, making remarkable career moves and evoking social change. Whether their efforts and impact on communities were artistic, social or political, this intimate look highlights all of these dynamic contributions and influences on today′s women! Monday, December 25 at 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

* SOUL SESSIONS
It′s more than a show -- it′s the many different elements of soul. This eclectic music program brings the finest live performances as well as classic music videos. SOUL SESSIONS offers the best of Neo-Soul and classic hits, and features music videos from both today′s hottest artists and music legends. Sunday, December 24 at 10:00 p.m.

* THE BEST SHORTS
A film fest of colossal proportions rounds out the Christmas marathon with 8 hours filled with non-stop drama, comedy, horror, suspense and the African-American experience from the best and brightest emerging filmmakers. Don′t miss the best in "Black Cinema" with this exclusive marathon of Black film shorts from some of today′s most talented Black movie makers. Monday, December 25 at 10:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m.

* IN VIDE
Check out which artist BET J′s music video vault showcases in this special program featuring artists in their urban classics or today′s hottest hits. Monday, January 1 at 9:00 a.m.

* TIMELESS
TIMELESS chronicles the lives and careers of iconic artists and musicians and documents their success through an in-depth timeline of their albums, music videos and legendary performances. Monday, January 1 at 1:00 p.m.

* INFLUENCES
INFLUENCES brings the intimate chat with viewers′ favorite contemporary Soul and R&B artists as they reveal who their personal influences from traditional Jazz are and how these icons have impacted their music. Monday, January 1 at 4:00 p.m.

PBS Brings Three New Science Pilots To TV - Premieres News Years Day

PBS ′Experiments′ With Three New Science Pilots Starting New Year′s Day

Viewers Invited to Help Select Next New Weekly PBS Science Series Targeted to Premiere Fall 2007

In search of the next new science series, PBS will premiere three pilots on New Year′s Day via streaming video on pbs.org, with the television broadcasts kicking off January 3 at 8:00 p.m. ET on PBS member stations. Audiences nationwide will be invited to weigh in on their favorite, and the ultimate choice will move on to become a new 10-week series projected to debut in fall 2007.

This is the first time PBS has introduced full specials online in advance of the television broadcast, offering a unique interactive dialogue with viewers about the programs they are seeking from their public television stations. The announcement was made by John Boland, Chief Content Officer, PBS.

"Technology is not only allowing PBS member stations more opportunities to provide viewers even greater access to the best content available, but also new ways to interact with our audiences, delivering a level of value and engagement that only a public service media environment can,"said Mr. Boland.

The three new pilots include WIRED SCIENCE, a production of KCET Los Angeles in association with Wired magazine; SCIENCE INVESTIGATORS, from WGBH Boston and Lion TV; and 22ND CENTURY, produced by Tower Productions in collaboration with Boston Science Communications and Twin Cities Public Television. Each special will be available via free streaming video on pbs.org and as free video podcasts on Apple′s iTunes player. The PBS television broadcasts begin January 3 for three consecutive Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. (check local listings); on-air promos will invite the audiences to submit reviews of the shows online at each of the program sites accessible through pbs.org/science. Viewer feedback, as well as additional audience-based research, will help inform PBS′ decision to greenlight one pilot as the next new science series slated to premiere with an initial 10-week run in fall 2007.

"Popular, long-running shows like NOVA and specials such as THE ELEGANT UNIVERSE have proven that the American public has a rich appetite for science- related programming, and research has told us that they are looking for more high-quality choices from PBS," added John F. Wilson, Senior Vice President & Chief TV Programming Executive, PBS.

The science pilots were funded by a special grant co-managed by CPB (Corporation for Public Broadcasting) and PBS. The initiative was inspired by the results of a CPB primetime research study that indicated strong viewer interest in PBS science-related programming. From an initial request for proposals that yielded more than 19 submissions, PBS winnowed the field to the three finalists below:

WIRED SCIENCE
Wednesday, January 3, 2007, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET

WIRED SCIENCE is a one-hour program that translates Wired magazine′s award-winning journalism into a fast-paced television show. WIRED SCIENCE brings Wired magazine′s cutting-edge vision, stylish design and irreverent attitude to the screen with breakout ideas, recent discoveries and the latest innovations. The pilot episode takes the viewer into the world of meteorite hunters, where space, commerce and art intersect; travels to Yellowstone National Park to harvest viruses that may hold the key to a technology revolution; and dives underwater to explore NEEMO, NASA′s extreme astronaut training facility. Viewers will meet rocket-belt inventors, stem cell explorers and the developer of an electric car that goes from zero-to-60 in under four seconds. As a series, WIRED SCIENCE hopes to span the globe to uncover novel developments in biomedicine, space exploration, artificial intelligence, neuroscience, robotics and military technology. January 1 Website launch: pbs.org/wired science

The hosts and personalities of WIRED SCIENCE include Brian Unger, a contributor to NPR′s "Day to Day," frequent guest host on MSNBC′s "Countdown with Keith Olbermann" and former correspondent for the "Daily Show"; Aomawa Shields, a graduate of MIT and author of the essay "Universe: The Sequel," which is included in She′s Such a Geek: Women Write About Science, Technology, and Other Nerdy Stuff (Seal Press); and Ziya Tong, who hosted the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation′s Emmy-nominated interactive series "Zed," a pioneer of "open source" television. In addition, Wired senior editor Adam Rogers and roving reporters, such as Pulitzer Prize winner Dan Neil, will bring a fresh, youthful, and diverse perspective to the topics. (Adam Rogers is available for interviews.)

WIRED SCIENCE is a co-production of KCET/Los Angeles, the West Coast flagship station of PBS, and Wired, the pre-eminent science and technology magazine. WIRED SCIENCE is a production of executive producer Tod Mesirow ("MythBusters," "Monster Garage"), senior producer David Axelrod (Emmy winner for the NOVA special "Galileo′s Battle for the Heavens") and production designer Grant Major (Lord of the Rings trilogy, King Kong). David Byrne, Grammy- and Oscar-winning composer (The Last Emperor) and co-founder of the Talking Heads, produced the theme music for the show. Executive producer for KCET is Karen Hunte; executive in charge of production for KCET is Mary Mazur. Executive producer for Wired magazine is Melanie Cornwell; Chris Anderson is Wired′s editor in chief.

SCIENCE INVESTIGATORS
Wednesday, January 10, 2007, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET

SCIENCE INVESTIGATORS is a new and groundbreaking television program that takes a 21st century, cutting-edge approach to the subject of science. The show will provide solutions to a series of scientific mysteries in a fresh, captivating way. Full of information told through compelling stories, the pilot series is presented by four young, lively hosts, armed with the latest gadgets and technology, who make this a science show with attitude for the blog generation. In the first episode, SCIENCE INVESTIGATORS asks: What can DNA from a more than 30,000-year-old Neanderthal man tell us about ourselves? Are vanishing frogs an early warning sign of hazards to come? Why is the knuckleball one of the most mind-boggling pitches in baseball? Will bacteria be used to power iPods in the future? SI also tells the moving story of an injured Iraq war veteran searching for a better bionic arm. Finally, are NASCAR drivers ready for a new kind of racecar -- one that′s all electric? January 1 Website launch: pbs.org/si

SCIENCE INVESTIGATORS is a Lion Television and WGBH Science Unit Production. Executive producers are Chris Bryson, Nick Catliff (British Academy Award winner), Tony Tackaberry (HISTORY DETECTIVES, a top-rated PBS summer series) and Susanne Simpson, Academy Award nominee and Emmy winner. Hosts are Basil Singer, physicist and robotics expert; Victoria Bruce, geologist, author of the best-seller No Apparent Danger; Kevin Hand, astrobiologist at Stanford and Princeton Universities; and Bahareh Azizi, biochemist and lecturer at Georgia Institute of Technology. Executive-in- charge is Paula S. Apsell, senior executive producer of NOVA, the most-watched science documentary series in the world.

22ND CENTURY
Wednesday, January 17, 2007, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET

What is the world going to be like 30 years from now? Will human life spans increase to 250 years or more? Will personal computers be smarter than the humans who use them? Will machines shrink to a micro-level so small that they can make repairs inside a human cell? This series is about dramatic changes being made by scientific and technological research conducted in laboratories across the globe today. The pilot episode, called "World Wide Mind," is about a new theory that suggests that in the coming decades all our brains will be wired together just as computers were wired together via the World Wide Web during the 1990s. Each episode will be driven by three characters viewing these scientific advances from a different perspective. One will be an actor portraying Aldous Huxley, late author of Brave New World, who worried about the dehumanizing consequences of new technology. The second will be an impartial observer from the present, an everyday person who, like our viewers, is affected by the changes taking place. The third will be a character from the future, who presents an optimistic view of all the possibilities these technologies offer. January 1 Website launch: pbs.org/22ndcentury

22ND CENTURY is a collaboration of Towers Productions, Boston Science Communications and Twin Cities Public Television. The director and executive producer of 22ND CENTURY is Gino Del Guercio (RED GOLD, TRANSISTORIZED, NERDS 2.0.1); production executive is John Lindsay (winner of six Emmy Awards); the composer is Charles Denler; animation is produced by Xvivo; the producers are Tresha Mabile and Scott Alexander; the host is Robin Robinson; the two characters are played by Mindy Bell and John Cunningham.

PBS is a media enterprise that serves 354 public noncommercial television stations and reaches almost 90 million people each week through on-air and online content. Bringing diverse viewpoints to television and the Internet, PBS provides high-quality documentary and dramatic entertainment, and consistently dominates the most prestigious award competitions. PBS is a leading provider of educational materials for K-12 teachers, and offers a broad array of other educational services. PBS′ premier kids′ TV programming and Web site, PBS KIDS Online (pbskids.org), continue to be parents′ and teachers′ most trusted learning environments for children. More information about PBS is available at pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org Web sites on the Internet.

Thursday, December 21, 2006

THE ROB & AMBER PROJECT (Of SURVIVOR Fame) Coming To Fox Reality

THE ROB & AMBER PROJECT Comes to Fox Reality

New Original Series Scheduled to Premiere Thursday, January 11

Reality darlings Rob and Amber Mariano [of SURVIVOR: MARQUESAS (Season 4), SURVIVOR ALL-STARS (Season 8) and THE AMAZING RACE (Season 7) fame] are set to enter the most challenging phase of their young marriage: Rob′s desire to risk their earnings by becoming a professional gambler.

Fox Reality, the only all reality, all the time channel, will track the ups and downs of this charismatic couple in a brand new original series for cable and satellite television. The new Fox Reality Original, THE ROB & AMBER PROJECT is a series of ten, half-hour shows slated to air on the US cable and satellite network beginning on Thursday, January 11.

Having wed on national television in 2005, Rob now wants to take the couples SURVIVOR and AMAZING RACE winnings and parlay them into millions more by moving to Vegas and becoming a professional poker player. Amber, his ever-supportive wife, is not so sure about this.

THE ROB AND AMBER PROJECT will allow viewers to peek into their private life. From the confines of their master bedroom to super-secret poker dens, audiences will see this newly-married couple live glamorously on the edge. And ultimately, will Rob and Amber be able to withstand the pressures of their new life, celebrity friends and poker elite...without destroying their loving domestic relationship?

David Lyle, Fox Reality COO & General Manager, said, "We pride ourselves on bringing original, unpredictable and exciting programming to reality fans who just can′t get enough. The show, like Rob and Amber themselves, will embrace the spirit of our network. We are proud they chose Fox Reality for their first reality show outside the broadcast world."

MSNBC Takes A Behind The Scenes Look At The World Of Mixed Martial Arts In WARRIOR NATION

MSNBC Takes A Behind The Scenes Look At The World Of Mixed Martial Arts In WARRIOR NATION, Series Beginning January 9th

MSNBC′s WARRIOR NATION, takes viewers inside the world of MMA, mixed martial arts, beginning January 9th at 10 p.m. ET. MMA, one of the fastest-growing sports in the nation, combines various fighting styles including wrestling, boxing, Tai Kwon Do, Karate and submission grappling. It′s a "no-holds-barred" combat sport that has become a successful enterprise throughout the world and has been called "the next NASCAR." Each episode opens the door to the lives of fighters and the struggles that they endure in this popular sport. Veteran fighters, such as Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz, fans favorites, including Urijah Faber, as well as up-and-coming fighters, are portrayed. The four-part series airs each week on consecutive Tuesdays, beginning January 9th at 10 p.m. ET. WARRIOR NATION is the first of two documentary series produced by 29 Stories LLC for MSNBC.

"WARRIOR NATION is not just about fighting," says Long-Form Programming Vice President Michael Rubin, "it′s about a quickly growing American phenomenon; the millions of fans and tens of thousands of young athletes who gravitate to this new sport, hoping to springboard from obscurity to celebrity, using the most basic of tools--their bodies and fists."

Episode One, which airs January 9th at 10 and 11 p.m. ET, follows Urijah Faber and Enoch Wilson. 27-year-old Faber is the number one MMA fighter in his weight class in the nation and one of the best in the world. A college graduate, he fights and trains full-time, has 14 career wins and over $100,000 in prize money. Wilson, a 26-year-old high school drop-out and single dad with 8 career wins, works at a plastics factory to support his training and his 14-month-old daughter.

The Following Tuesday evening, January 16th, in episode two we meet Erin Toughill. At 29-years-old, she is one of the top women fighters in the world. Toughill′s husband, Clark Bevans, a 32-year-old gym owner, also participates in MMA fighting. Together, they hope to become the first couple in the world to fight on the same night - and win.

Episode Three, airing January 23rd, unites two rivals for their second head-to-head fight. Gina Carrano and Elaina Maxwell meet at Strikeforce in San Jose, California. Carrano, the underdog, plans on repeating her previous win over Maxwell, but Maxwell, who has been training under Cung Le, the World Kickboxing Champion, expects to even the score. Nonetheless, both women won′t take this fight lying down.

Airing January 30th, episode four dives deep into the organization of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The episode features two up-and-coming fighters, Steve Byrnes and Logan Clark, who have recently earned their first shot at fighting, as well as two celebrity veterans of the UFC, Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz. UFC President Dana White also explains his struggles and plans to Make MMA legal in all 50 states.

SURREAL LIFE ALL-STARS Coming To VH1 January 7th

SURREAL LIFE ALL-STARS Return To Compete In VH1′S First Ever THE SURREAL LIFE FAME GAMES

With Brigitte Nielsen, Ron Jeremy, Chyna Doll, Vanilla Ice, Traci Bingham, Verne Troyer, Jordan Knight, Pepa, Emmanuel Lewis, Andrea Lowell and C.C. Deville

Hosted by Robin Leach

Audience favorites from all six seasons of Surreal Life kick-off 2007 in a new competition series. VH1′s first ever "The Surreal Life Fame Games" hosted by the certified bearer of champagne wishes and caviar dreams, Mr. Robin Leach himself (Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous), determines who is an A-list celebrity and who is a B-list wanna be.

Premiering Sunday, January 7 at 9PM ET/PT on VH1, THE SURREAL LIFE FAME GAMES is a competitive twist on Celebreality. This time, eleven of the most memorable cast members from Surreal Life will come together in Las Vegas to compete in a series of "fame games" which will whittle them down to just one winner of a $100,000 grand prize.

THE SURREAL LIFE FAME GAMES is a ten episode elimination featuring tongue-in-cheek competitions that parody the trappings, costs, conceits and drama of being famous. The Surreal celebrities will have their Hollywood survival skills challenged, their popularity measured and their ability to navigate through the treacherous world of tabloid stardom put to the test. From the very first episode the celebrities will have to struggle to remain on the comfortable "A List" side of the house by winning competitions. The losing players will be banished to the humiliating "B-list" quarters where tension builds as the A-listers enjoy gourmet meals prepared by a renowned Vegas chef and the B-listers are forced to make their own ham sandwiches. The contestants are reminded of the volatility of fame as the A-list drinks champagne and get pro-tennis lessons while the B-list is left to play ping-pong and eat crackers.

The hour long show will be hosted by Las Vegas local Robin Leach and feature many Vegas locations, events and celebrity cameos. Surreal Life all-stars returning to compete include: Brigitte Nielsen (Season 3), Chyna Doll (Season 4), - more - Vanilla Ice (Season 2), Pepa (Season 5), Emmanuel Lewis (Season 1), C.C. DeVille (Season 6), Ron Jeremy (Season 2), Jordan Knight (Season 3), Verne Troyer (Season 4), Andrea Lowell (Season 6) and Tracy Bingham (Season 2).

The competitions will include everything from "Paparazzi Hide-and-Seek" to "Scandal Video Film Festival" to the "Hotel Room Trash-a-thon" to a funny little game called "What's Charo Saying?" All the games test a celebrity′s level of relative fame. For example in one simple game, their names are entered in Google and the one with the most hits wins! In another, the celebrities compete to see who can get the most famous person to call into the show. While the premise of all the games will be fun, the competitions will be real - and in the end, only one Surreal All-Star will claim the final prize.

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

AMERICAN CHOPPER Heading To TLC Channel January 18th

AMERICAN CHOPPER Revs Its Engines on The Learning Channel Starting Thursday, January 18

AMERICAN CHOPPER is cornerstone of new high-octane programming block, TURBO ON TLC.

AMERICAN CHOPPER, featuring Orange County Choppers, the family business run by Paul Teutul Sr. and Paul Teutul Jr., is moving to The Learning Channel starting Thursday, January 18, from 9-10 PM (ET/PT) to be the cornerstone of a new programming block, TURBO ON TLC.

The first two episodes of AMERICAN CHOPPER on TLC feature a build-off between Paul Teutul Jr. and Paul Teutul Sr., who each build a prototype custom chopper that is their vision of the future of OCC. The two bikes will be displayed in January at an OCC event in Florida, and the fans′ vote will decide which prototype is used for the upcoming production line of choppers produced by OCC.

The Teutuls′ business is also on the move, and the new episodes of AMERICAN CHOPPER′s fourth season follow Orange County Choppers, one of the leading custom chopper shops in the world, as they break ground on their new 92,820-square-foot facility, which encompasses OCC′s garage, service center, retail store, offices and display area. The new episodes document not only the physical changes as OCC expands, but the evolving relationships between Paul Teutul Sr., his sons Paul Teutul Jr. and Mikey Teutul, the extended Teutul family and their OCC staff, which has grown to over 70 employees. The family dynamics and lessons from running a successful business will continue to be featured alongside the Teutuls building some of the most aggressive, creative custom choppers around. Besides the production bike build-off between Paul Jr. and Paul Sr., some of the other builds featured in the new episodes on TLC include an Indy racing-inspired bike with Danica Patrick for GoDaddy.com and a Peavey Amps chopper.

TURBO ON TLC launches on January 18 with the premiere of AMERICAN CHOPPER at 9 PM (ET/PT) and a special episode featuring Mikey Teutul′s adventures around the OCC shop and the Northeast Coast at 10 PM (ET/PT). TURBO ON TLC′s complete lineup includes OVERHAULIN, starting January 18 at 7 PM (ET/PT); AMERICAN HOT ROD, starting January 25 at 8 PM (ET/PT); BIKER BUILD-OFF, starting February 8 at 10 PM (ET/PT); and additional programming and new series currently in development.

The TURBO ON TLC lineup is the on-air home for TURBO, the multi-platform, multimedia destination for Discovery Network′s best "motorized" content, from choppers to supersonic jets and everything in between. As a multimedia destination, TURBO is designed for people who love the rush and craftsmanship of all things motorized. The first cross-platform brand in Discovery′s portfolio, TURBO offers content on air, online, on demand and on the go. TURBO programming blocks air on Thursday nights on TLC and Tuesday nights on Discovery HD Theater.

Everyone′s Favorite God Warrior Returns To TRADING SPOUSES: MEET YOUR NEW MOMMY

Everyone′s Favorite "God Warrior" Marguerite Perrin

Returns To TRADING SPOUSES: MEET YOUR NEW MOMMY On January 19 And January 26

Marguerite Perrin, the self-proclaimed "God Warrior," made famous last season by her infamous rant against the "dark side" and major meltdown in front of the cameras returns to TRADING SPOUSES: MEET YOUR NEW MOMMY on Friday, Jan. 19 and Friday, Jan. 26 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. Perrin first appeared on TRADING SPOUSES so she could use the $50,000 prize money for gastric bypass surgery. She′s since had the surgery and lost 94 lbs!

While she currently holds a smaller build, Perrin is no less the big personality previously seen on the show, and is just as sassy, ready to tell it like it is, and as effervescent as ever! This special two-part episode took Perrin to the home of Abasi Malone and LaToya Brown in St. Petersburg, FL. Their 7 year old daughter Shachamaah is home- schooled by LaToya, while Abasi drives a taxi and has a newspaper route. The Malone-Brown′s are very environmentally conscious, with both a recycled rain barrel and compost pile in their yard. Abasi also hosts a political talk show that addresses issues within the African American community. Marguerite and Abasi quickly learn how to push each others buttons and it doesn′t take long before they clash over their views on race, politics, and social injustice.

Perrin still lives in Ponchatoula, LA with husband Barry, daughters Ashley and Brooke and granddaughter Abigail. They believe in good old southern hospitality, and enjoy hosting parties and get-togethers with friends and family. The family continues to run a thriving dance studio that instructs ballet, jazz, and hip-hop.

EGO TRIP The (White) Rapper Show Heading To VH1

VH1 Flows Outta Control With ′ego trip′s The (White) Rapper Show′

It′s More Than a Reality Game Show, It′s the "Lighter" Side of Hip Hop

The Eight Episode Series Premieres Monday, January 8 at 10:30pm

Since the first rhymes flowed in the parks of the South Bronx, most of rap′s major emcees, have been African American. A few successful white MC′s like The Beastie Boys and Eminem have reached the top of the hip hop world. But for the most part, the rap game has been an unforgiving field for melanin-deficient MC′s.

But now, 20 years after the Beasties first exercised their "License to Ill," VH1 and ego trip have stepped in to search for the next great "white rapper" in "ego trip′s The (White) Rapper Show" premiering January 8 at 10:30 pm. Additional new episodes will air every Monday at 10:00pm.

Set in the birthplace of hip hop, the South Bronx, and hosted by white rap legend Michael "MC Serch" Berrin (of the group 3rd Bass) and producing legend Prince Paul, "ego trip′s The (White) Rapper Show" will put 10 contestants from all over America through challenges that will test their musical "cred," knowledge of hip hop culture, and their ideas about race. Along the way, hip hop pioneers, such as Grandmaster Flash, Kurtis Blow, and Fat Joe will be brought in to school and critique our eager rappin′ competitors.

The competition won′t be easy. The run-down South Bronx tenement that they′ll be bunking in, "Tha White House," is a far cry from the standard reality show mansion. But hip hop is about survival; about economics and class and race. And our 10 contestants will be faced with a variety of tasks that will reflect each of these facets of the culture.

From freestyle battles in Detroit′s famed St. Andrews Hall to cutting a club record with super producer Just Blaze to answering questions about life in the ′hood, these 10 hopefuls will be immersed in the culture they claim to love. But do they have the knowledge, talent and ability to, as MC Serch says, lead the culture? Or will they bleed the culture? "ego Trip′s The (White) Rapper Show" on VH1 will leave only one man (or woman) standing alone ... victorious in the original hood of hip hop and $100,000 richer.

Tonight On PRIMETIME BASIC INSTINCTS - Can 12 Strangers Find Each Other in Washington, D.C.

Can 12 Strangers Find Each Other in Washington, D.C.,

Having Never Met and Without Any Clues Where to Look?

Will Two Teams Succeed in Losing 15 Pounds in Two Months?

Can math and science be used to predict whether people will lose weight or to see if complete strangers can find each other in the middle of a busy city, with no clues?

"Primetime" finds out in the third installment of "Primetime: Basic Instincts." Professor Barry Nalebuff of Yale University′s School of Management teaches game theory, which he describes as "the science of strategy; recognizing that the success of what you do depends on what other people do."

Working with Nalebuff, "Primetime" creates two real life games to test the intellectual theory. Jay Schadler reports on "Primetime: Basic Instincts" airing tonight (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

One scenario takes viewers on a race through Washington, D.C. to see if twelve strangers paired off can find each other without any clues or direction. While their journey begins with an expected route, the players stumble on unexpected obstacles along the way. Will they come together and find each other, proving that people tend to have common thought patterns in a given society?

Could game theory help create a sure fire way to lose weight? In the second scenario, there are two voluntary teams competing to see if each person can lose 15 pounds in two months. Each team has a different form of game theory. One side faces a choice: lose the weight or unveil a picture taken of them in a tiny bathing suit -- on a stadium jumbotron. The other team faces a more subtle pressure - try to do their part in losing the weight for the team to succeed.

Will the credible threat of exposure be enough to motivate one team to drop the most weight, or will the other team motivated more positively win?

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Open Casting Call Announced For SURVIVOR

CBS has announced an open casting call for the hit reality TV Series SURVIVOR.

In 2007 a new group of Americans will experience trials and tribulations as they are eliminated one by one from yet another SURVIVOR program. The Sole Survivor will win $1,000,000.

Below is a list of the locations where the upcoming SURVIVOR casting calls will held.

WFRV

December 27th, 4-8pm
The 5th Quarter
2101 American Drive
Little Chute, WI
For more information, visit wfrv.com or call Kristin at 920-430-3621.

WLNS
Thursday January 4th
6pm-8:30pm
The Lansing Boat Show
Lansing Center
333 East Michigan Avenue
Lansing Michigan 48933
For More Information go to: wlns.com

WHP-CBS 21
Saturday January 13th
10am - 1:00pm
the Harrisburg Mall
I-83 and Paxton Street
Harrisburg, PA
More information can be found at www.whptv.com

WTKR
Norfolk/Virginia Beach
Friday January 19, 2006
4:00pm - 7:00pm
During the HRADA International Auto Show
At the Virginia Beach Convention Center
1000 19th Street,
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

WBBM
Chicago
Saturday, January 20th, 10a-2p
Majestic Star Casino
One Buffington Harbor Drive
Gary, IN 46406
For more information please call 312-212-2422.

KLAS Las Vegas
January 20, 2007, 12N - 5P
Planet Nissan
5850 Centennial Center Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89149

KGMB9, Honolulu
Saturday January 27th from 10am-1pm
Ala Moana Shopping Center-Center-stage
1450 Ala Moana Blvd
Honolulu, HI 96814
For more information, email Sheryl at sferido@kgmb9.com.

KUTV
Salt Lake City
January 12th & 13th, 3-8pm
South Towne Expo Center
9575 South State St.
Sandy, UT

WHBF-TV
Quad Cities, IA/IL
Saturday, January 20th, 10a-6p
The Great Escape
2119 Kimberly Road
Bettendorf, IA
For questions, please call Steve Garman at 309-786-5441.

WAFB
Baton Rouge, LA
Gerry Lane Hummer-Saab (I-10 at Siegen)
Saturday, January 20th
10am Ð Noon
10945 Reiger Road
Baton Rouge, LA
For questions, please call 225-383-9999.

WLTX- TV
Columbia, SC
Saturday, January 20th, 12n-4pm
WLTX-TV
6027 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC
For more information, viewers can call the station
at 803-776-3600 or visit www.wltx.com.

For more information go to http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor_application/

Chance To Sing On GRAMMY Awards Show With Justin Timberlake In MY GRAMMY MOMENT

MY GRAMMY® MOMENT Debuts As Unsigned Artists Vie For Performance Slot On THE 49TH ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS

Fans Vote Online to Determine Who Will Perform with Superstar Justin Timberlake in Special Segment on Music′s Biggest Night

Continuing its mission of discovering and nurturing music makers, The Recording Academy announced today the creation of "My GRAMMY® Moment" -- a historic opportunity for unsigned artists to audition for a performance with current multi-GRAMMY nominee Justin Timberlake on THE 49th ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS, Sunday, Feb. 11 (8:00-11:30 PM, live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network. The new GRAMMY segment will vault someone from anonymity to performing with one of entertainment′s biggest stars on music′s biggest stage in front of millions of television viewers. A full roster of performers and presenters on THE 49TH ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS will be announced in the coming weeks.

As part of a nine-week event, which begins today and culminates on the GRAMMY Awards telecast, The Recording Academy will work with CBS and Yahoo! Music to conduct a nationwide audition with musicians uploading user-generated performance video to Yahoo! Music. The top 12 artists will be determined by a GRAMMY Blue Ribbon Panel, with the public voting to narrow the field and eventually select the winner. Users may log on directly to CBS.com or to Yahoo! Music to access the video submissions, video viewing and voting site: http://music.yahoo.com/mygrammymoment/.

"The Internet has revolutionized the way that unknown artists can reveal their talent to a larger audience, and television remains the most powerfulÊplatformÊto showcase such talent to the masses," said Jack Sussman, Executive Vice President, Specials, Music and Live Events, CBS. "By harnessingÊthe accessibility, interactivity and reachÊof these two mediums, we have created anÊunprecedented opportunity for an up-and-coming musician, as well asÊa memorable and exciting moment for television audiences. The GRAMMY Awards have always been ahead of the game when it comes to discovering andÊspotlighting new talent and music, and this eventÊtakes thatÊcommitment to even greater heights."

"From successful programs such as GRAMMY Career Day SM and GRAMMY In The Schools® to newly introduced programs such as GRAMMY Camp® and GRAMMY University Network, our Academy and its GRAMMY Foundation have made music education and career enhancement priorities 365 days a year," said Neil Portnow, President of The Recording Academy. "This ′My GRAMMY′ segment gives us the perfect opportunity to demonstrate via the Telecast another fine example of what we do so well on a daily basis. At the same time, it′s our goal to bring consumers even closer to the GRAMMYs without affecting the criteria of peer group voting that sets the GRAMMY Awards apart from other music award shows."

"I′m happy to participate in this unique approach to discovering unsigned talent, but I′m only a piece of the puzzle," said Justin Timberlake.Ê "All of you contestants out there should look at this as more than just a chance to duet with me, because it′s really an opportunity to begin your career as a superstar. And I′ll be there to help coach you along."

"The GRAMMY Awards is known for introducing a remarkable number of talented artists to the broad audience that follows our show from year to year. Many of these artists, from Ricky Martin and Robert Randolph to Norah Jones and John Legend, have gone on to extremely successful careers due in no small part to their GRAMMY appearances," said co-executive producer (with John Cossette) Ken Ehrlich. "With this concept, we will be able to continue that tradition and reach out even further to the incredibly diverse musical community that watches the GRAMMYs."

"Yahoo! Music has always focused on supporting and cultivating new musical talent through original programming," said Dave Goldberg, vice president and general manager of Yahoo! Music.Ê "′My GRAMMY Moment′ is the progression of our commitment to providing users with the premiere online music venue for new and established artists. We are thrilled to be working with the Recording Academy and CBS to make this unique opportunity possible for an aspiring artist."

Following is information about submissions, voting and performing for the competition:

Submission Information

December 15 (after 10:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM PT): Singers, at least 18-years of age or older, U.S. residents only, who have never been signed to an independent or major record label, submit a 60-second video of themselves singing one of the following GRAMMY-winning songs only (must be a cappella with no music or background track whatsoever):

"If I Ain′t Got You" (originally performed by Alicia Keys)

"Breathe" (originally performed by Faith Hill)

"Come To My Window" (originally performed by Melissa Etheridge)

"What′s Love Got To Do With It" (originally performed by Tina Turner)

"Dance With My Father" (originally performed by Luther Vandross)

"Cry Me A River" (originally performed by Justin Timberlake)

"Respect" (originally performed by Aretha Franklin)

"I Wanna Dance With Somebody" (originally performed by Whitney Houston)

"Vision of Love" (originally performed by Mariah Carey).

Videos should be submitted and uploaded to Yahoo! Music, no later than Jan. 3, 2007, 11:59 PM ET.

Original group of videos will be judged by a VIP Blue Ribbon Committee.

Voting and Performance Information

Fans and viewers can begin viewing video submissions online at CBS.com, powered by Yahoo! Music, on Dec. 18.

Blue Ribbon Committee will evaluate all video submissions.

The top 12 artists will be announced on Jan. 8. Viewers and fans will then have the opportunity to vote for their favorites online at Yahoo! Music.

The top five artists will be announced on Jan. 16. Voting will continue.

The top three artists will be announced Super Bowl weekend.

The top three artists will each rehearse with Justin Timberlake during rehearsals the week leading up to THE 49TH ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS.

Viewers and fans can vote for the final performer during the broadcast on Feb. 11, 2007 at CBS.com or via text messaging until 10:00 PM ET. The final performer will be announced as the world watches and will join the stage for the ultimate GRAMMY Moment with Justin Timberlake.

Rules and regulations for My GRAMMY Moment can be found at http://music.yahoo.com/mygrammymoment/

In addition, the top three finalists will be eligible to participate in GRAMMY Foundation activities including GRAMMY Career Day SM and GRAMMY Camp®, as well as The Recording Academy′s recently launched GRAMMY University Network initiative.

Bam Margera Returns To MTV As Wedding Bells Ring

It′s Wedding Bells & Wrestling Rings As MTV Greenlights Explosive New Series, "Bam′s Unholy Union" & "Wrestling Society X"

Skateboard Pro & Jackass Alumni Bam Margera Returns To Take On His Next Death Defying Stunt - Marriage; Plus, Gritty, Dirty & Dangerous, MTV Pushes Wrestling Competition To New Levels

Both To Debut In January 2007

Unveiling an explosive slate of new programming, MTV today announced the greenlight of two new series, "Bam′s Unholy Union," and "Wrestling Society X." In a triumphant return to MTV, skateboard pro and "Jackass" alumnus Bam Margera faces his biggest adventure yet as he prepares to take the vows with his bride-to-be, Missy, in what is guaranteed to be an anything-but-traditional wedding in "Bam′s Unholy Union." MTV will also introduce, "Wrestling Society X," the greatest, dirtiest, and most dangerous sports entertainment program that throws out the glam of wrestling, and piles on the grappling action every week from an undisclosed bunker where danger is never far away. Both series are set to make their debut in January 2007.

"Bam′s Unholy Union" will document the lives of Bam, finance Missy, and all the friends and family during the months leading up to the anticipated wedding, and culminating with the big day itself. MTV′s cameras will capture Bam as he tackles a world that is completely foreign to him. From wedding planners to picking out fine china to bachelor parties, Bam will inevitably throw curveballs into the process throwing everything off course. For Missy, she has only a few short months to find a dress, get a caterer, find a venue, send out invitations and plan the entire wedding. And, of course, April and Phil, a few random uncles, and his buddies, Dunn, Dico and Rake, will all be along for the ride. Margera has previously starred in MTV hits "Viva La Bam" and "Jackass."

Each week on "Wrestling Society X," the most talented warriors the world has ever known will battle each other and their surroundings, creating an experience that will alter viewers lives irrevocably. Featuring an onslaught of death-defying feats, aerobatic maneuvers, and truly athletic performances, "Wrestling Society X" will showcase the unique talents of some of the best in the business including aerial assault artist Jack Evans, the arrogant catalog models, Matt Sydal &Lizzy Valentine, the amazing third generation heir to a wrestling legacy Teddy Hart, as well as the likes of former World Champions Vampiro and Sean "6-Pac" Waltman. Also appearing in each episode will be a very special musical guest, performing live in front of hundreds of rabid fans and the fiery combatants.

For "Bam′s Unholy Union," Terry Hardy, Michael Bloom, and Joe DeVito are Executive Producers for Sonar Entertainment. Bam Margera is Executive Producer. Lauren Dolgen and Michael Ireland are Executives in Charge for MTV.

"Wrestling Society X" is produced by Big Vision Entertainment in conjunction with MTV. Houston Curtis is Creator and Executive Producer. Sam Korkis is also Executive Producer. Michael Ireland and David Gross are MTV′s Executives In Charge.

For both series, Lois Curren is EVP, MTV Series Entertainment & Programming.

Monday, December 18, 2006

DOG WHISPERER Helps Celebrated Author Of MARLEY AND ME

National Geographic Channel′s DOG WHISPERER Helps One Of America′s most Beloved Dog Owners The Celebrated Author Of MARLEY AND ME

One New York Times Best-Selling Author Helps Another as Cesar Millan Comes to the Rescue of Author John Grogan and His Family

It seemed like any other day for a chicken named Liberace. He stepped out of the coop, looking left, looking right, . but then suddenly the poor bird was attacked. and killed. The surprising culprit? A 2-year-old Labrador retriever named Gracie.

"You look differently at your dog after they′ve eaten another pet," says Jenny Grogan of Gracie.

Her husband, John Grogan, New York Times best-selling author of "Marley and Me: Life and Love with the World′s Worst Dog," reflects, "I wrote the book about Marley. he was a handful. very energetic.. But Gracie. she′ll lock in on any small animal and go after it."

Recognizing that he′s got a more serious situation on his hands than an overly rambunctious and playful dog, Grogan calls on a fellow New York Times best-seller who knows how to handle difficult canine cases - National Geographic Channel′s Dog Whisperer and author of "Cesar's Way," Cesar Millan. The authors meet when Dog Whisperer: Bella & Big Boy, and Gracie premieres Friday, January 5, 2007, at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

As Cesar points out to the Grogans, Gracie, being a purebred Labrador, can be gentle and friendly to humans, but she is also by nature a purebred retriever and hunter, and when those instincts go unfulfilled, she lets her aggression out in other ways ... and that′s what led to the demise of Liberace.

Through a series of exercises, Cesar trains Gracie to stay away from the scene of the crime - the chicken coop - and to adopt a calm, submissive energy when she is around chickens. In one oddly productive session, Cesar holds a chicken but stays relatively close to Gracie. Gracie wants to get closer, sniff and attack. The bird is nervous in Cesar′s arms - in fact, she even lays an egg in Cesar's hand! Gracie achieves a calm, submissive state shortly afterward . and the Grogans are left in awe of Cesar′s capabilities, even with poultry.

With the additional help of a local obedience trainer who specializes in harnessing retrievers′ natural instinct for hunting, the Grogans can now envision a happier home life and not worry about their dog - or their chickens.

Also in this episode, Cesar visits a dog-friendly office with some not-so-friendly dogs as he enters the corporate world of Paul Frank and his pop-icon hipster monkey products. The new owner, John Oswald, has a 4 ¸-year old boxer named Bella that has been attacking other employees′ dogs. But the office problems don′t stop there - another pooch is even more dangerously aggressive and poses a potentially bigger challenge: a 4-year-old pit bull mix named Big Boy. Cesar immediately recognizes the need for an intervention - and prescribes a stint at his Dog Psychology Center for Big Boy. Can living with a pack of rehabilitated dogs tame Big Boy′s aggression - and bring harmony to the office once again? And can both Big Boy′s owner Jillian and her boss learn to provide a calm, balanced energy to their pets and bring harmony back to the office?

In this third season of Dog Whisperer, for the first time, the series has traveled to cities across the country - including New York, N.Y.; Atlanta, Ga.; Chicago, Ill.; Dallas, Texas; Omaha, Neb.; Philadelphia, Pa.; and Cleveland, Ohio - to aid problem dogs and their desperate owners. And Cesar comes to the rescue of Oscar nominee Virginia Madsen, legendary recording artist Patti LaBelle and actress Jada Pinkett Smith.

With more than 20 years of experience working with canines, Millan has been called "Dr. Phil for dogs," and for good reason. He has a unique gift of rehabilitating dogs and training their owners. A favorite of "Oprah Winfrey," Cesar was also parodied on a recent episode of "South Park," and his book "Cesar's Way" (Harmony Books, 2006) has been a fixture on the New York Times best-seller list for the past five months. The second season of Dog Whisperer received a nomination for a Primetime Emmy award. Millan was recently made an honorary member of the International Association of Canine Professionals.

Friday, December 15, 2006

ABC Announces Two New Oprah Winfrey Reality Primetime Series

ABC & Harpo Productions Announce Two Alternative Primetime Series: OPRAH WINFREY′S THE BIG GIVE And YOUR MONEY OR YOUR LIFE

ABC and Harpo Productions announce a new alternative primetime series, OPRAH WINFREY′S THE BIG GIVE (working title). In this eight-episode show, 10 people will be challenged to take the money and resources they are given and multiply them to come up with the most powerful, sensational, emotional and dramatic ways to give to others. Each week the group will face a "big catch" that will test their nerve, drive, ingenuity and passion. Throughout the episodes, the field will be narrowed through a unique method. The stakes will get higher and higher, with one person ultimately being chosen to have his/her wildest dream come true for making the biggest impact. The series will center on the drama, emotion and magic of making a difference in peoples′ lives.

In addition, ABC and Harpo Productions are developing a primetime series tentatively titled YOUR MONEY OR YOUR LIFE. Each week will feature families facing a life crisis. They will need to make drastic and immediate changes before they are consumed by disaster. In every episode, an expert action team will move in and viewers will watch a dramatic total money and life makeover.

"Oprah Winfrey getting into series TV is monumental. Our relationship with Harpo has been wonderful for us, and this latest partnership takes it to a phenomenal new level," said Stephen McPherson, president, ABC Entertainment. "These two shows are a perfect fit for our alternative brand with their focus on wish fulfillment and making lives better. I can′t wait to get started."

"Less than 100 days since we launched our new television development group, we′re delighted to be announcing our first two primetime series," said Tim Bennett, president of Harpo Productions. "We're proud to be a part of ABC′s ongoing commitment to bring quality programming to its primetime viewers."

Harpo Productions, Inc. produces daytime′s number-one-rated, award-winning THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW, creates and develops original TV programming, and operates Oprah.com, a premier women′s lifestyle website. Harpo Print, LLC and Hearst Magazines publish the monthly O, The Oprah Magazine and quarterly O at Home publications. Harpo Films, Inc. produces feature films as well as top-rated long form television programs under the OPRAH WINFREY PRESENTS banner. Harpo, Inc. produces the original cable series OPRAH AFTER THE SHOW, which airs on the Oxygen Network. Harpo Radio, Inc. produces the content for the OPRAH & FRIENDS channel (156) on XM Satellite Radio.

Discovery Channel Announces Steve Irwin In His Final Documentary

Join world-renowned animal conservationist Steve Irwin in his final documentary as he investigates some of the most dangerous creatures on earth. Steve′s guest on this incredible expedition is Philippe Cousteau, the grandson of famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. Tune in to watch Steve and Philippe track and capture salt water crocodiles and catch venomous sea-snakes among other animals.

For thousands of years, the crystalline waters of Australia′s eastern shores have been teeming with the most dangerous creatures on earth. Join world-renowned animal conservationist Steve Irwin, "The Croc Hunter," in his final documentary shoot as he investigates these lethal animals in, OCEAN′S DEADLIEST. Steve′s guest on this incredible expedition is Philippe Cousteau, the grandson of famed oceanographer Jacques-Ives Cousteau. Bringing his own expertise of the undersea world, Philippe joins Steve to uncover the truth about these deadly creatures and that they all have a natural place in this ecosystem.

As they travel the Australian coastline in search of these unique creatures and the experts who study them, a final possibility dawns on both menÉ could "man" be the deadliest creature in the ocean?

Tune in to watch Steve Irwin and Philippe Cousteau track and capture salt water crocodiles, catch venomous sea-snakes, study the blue-ringed octopus and dive with great white sharks; as they carry the message that Steve has brought to the world for decades -- every creature deserves a place on this earth and we, as humans, must be responsible caretakers of their ecosystems.

Thursday, December 14, 2006

ARMED & FAMOUS - Celebrities As Police Officers in Muncie, Indiana

ARMED & FAMOUS, A New Reality Series, Premieres Wednesday, Jan. 10 on the CBS Television Network

Erik Estrada, La Toya Jackson, Jack Osbourne, Jason "Wee-Man" Acuna and Trish Stratus Star In A New Series Which Follows Celebrities As They Become Working Police Officers in Muncie, Indiana

ARMED & FAMOUS, a new reality series that turns celebrities into crime fighters, willfollow five brave stars through the Police Academy and onto patrol in Muncie, Indiana. ARMED & FAMOUS will premiere on Wednesday, Jan. 10 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) followed by a special original broadcast on Thursday, Jan. 11 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. ARMED & FAMOUS moves to its regular time period, Wednesdays (8:00 - 9:00 PM, ET/PT) on Jan. 17.

ARMED & FAMOUS features actor Erik Estrada ("CHiPs"), singer and author La Toya Jackson, television personality Jack Osbourne ("The Osbournes"), professional skateboarder Jason "Wee-Man" Acua ("Jackass") and former WWE champion wrestler, Trish Stratus.

The series follows the five stars as they become sworn police officers in the Midwestern town of Muncie, Indiana -- a city of nearly 70,000 residents located 60 miles northeast of Indianapolis. It′s also home to Ball State University.

Done with the full cooperation of the Muncie Police Department, the celebrities will undergo police training to become reserve police officers in the Muncie Police Department. They′ll learn everything from firearms to hand-to-hand combat, and even learn what it′s like to be on the receiving end of a taser shock as a part of the process to be certified to carry stun guns. Upon completion of their training, they′ll be issued badges and guns, partnered with veteranofficers and immediately hit the streets of Muncie.The five celebrities will protect and serve on the busiest shift of the night, 6 PM to 2 AM, responding to emergency calls, helping victims and making arrests.

New York Native Erik Chopin Wins THE BIGGEST LOSER

New York Native Chopin Posts the Largest Weight-loss in the Series′ History, Taking the $250,000 Grand Prize

Semi-finalists Kai Hibbard (Alaska) and Mark Wylie (Florida) Take Home the Second and Third Place Prizes of $50,000 and $25,000

California′s Brian Starkey Takes Home the $100,000 Prize as the "Winner of the Losers"

New Jersey′s Poppi Kramer Wins $50,000 as the Top At-Home Contestant

In last night′s live season finale of NBC′s popular weight-loss series "The Biggest Loser," 35-year-old West Islip, Long Island, New York native Erik Chopin lost 214 pounds and 52.58% of his body weight - the most for any contestant in the show′s history - to claim the top prize of $250,000 and the title of "The Biggest Loser."

During the jaw-dropping live finale, several other prizes were also awarded for the season, which featured contestants from all 50-states competing for the title. Semi-finalists Kai Hibbard (Eagle River, Alaska) and Mark Wylie (Miami, Florida) took home the second and third place prizes of $50,000 and $25,000 respectively. Los Angeles, California′s Brian Starkey took the $100,000 prize as the top ′winner of the losers′ from those who were eliminated at the ranch during the competition. In addition, Poppi Kramer (River Edge, New Jersey) won $50,000 when she topped the state competition beating out 34 other contestants who trained at-home with the help of thebiggestloserclub.com, DVD and cookbook.

Chopin currently lives on Long Island and owns a local deli. A self-described family man, Chopin works day and night to provide for his wife and two young daughters. When starting "The Biggest Loser" diet, Chopin weighed in at 407 pounds and was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. With the help of his Blue Team Trainer Bob Harper, Chopin was able to shed the pounds, adopting a healthier lifestyle through diet and exercise.

Hibbard lost 118 pounds, 45.04% of her body weight, and Wylie lost 129 pounds or 42.02% of his total body weight. Starkey lost 156 pounds or 50.65% of his body weight, and Kramer lost 50.43% or 117 total pounds. An astounding 19 people out of the 50 who started the competition have lost over 100 pounds this season.

From 8-10 p.m., "The Biggest Loser" finale (4.8/13 in 18-49, 11.7 million viewers overall) delivered NBC′s highest non-Olympic 18-49 rating in the time period in two-and-a-half years (since May 5, 2004, with special "Friends"encores and a "Friends" themed "Dateline NBC" on the eve of the "Friends" finale). In total viewers, it′s NBC′s biggest overall audience in the time period since May 10, 2006. "The Biggest Loser" won the time period in adults 18-49, as well as adults, men and women 18-34, adults 25-54, women 18-49 and women 25-54. This is the top-scoring "The Biggest Loser" in 18-49 and total viewers since November 29, 2005.

"The Biggest Loser" is the first reality show that challenges and encourages overweight contestants as they compete for a grand prize of $250,000 in a safe and recommended manner through comprehensive diet and exercise. The unscripted and life-altering reality series gathers contestants from across the country to face real-life temptations, while being provided with approved weight-loss skills and resources in an effort to help them transform their bodies, health -- and ultimately -- their lives. Each team works out under the supervision of professional trainers Kim Lyons (red team) and Bob Harper (blue team). Caroline Rhea ("Sabrina, the Teenage Witch") hosts.

NBC Announces Christmas Version Of DEAL OR NO DEAL And 1 vs 100

Lucky Viewers At Home Have Chance To Win Big Money For Their Stockings, and Big Bird Makes a Special Appearance on "Deal or No Deal"

NBC presents original back-to-back episodes of its hit game shows on Christmas Day, December 25 from 8-11 p.m. ET, starting with a two-hour bonanza of "Deal or No Deal" as host Howie Mandel descends in a sleigh, followed by holiday-themed trivia questions and the 12 Days of Christmas on "1 vs 100," hosted by Bob Saget. In both shows, contestants play for a chance to win $1 million and viewers get a chance to win more money on this Christmas Day in the play at home games as the "Deal or No Deal" Play At Home Lucky Case Game prize is increased to $100,000 and the "1 vs 100" You vs 100 game is increased to $25,000.

In this special two-hour episode of "Deal or No Deal" (8-10 p.m.), Howie Mandel will descend from a sleigh onto a decked out stage complete with a decorated tree, presents, candy canes and snow. The models are in fur-trimmed red velvet holiday dresses and will even attempt to draw out the Banker with their caroling. Playing for the $1 million top prize is Santa Claus, Indiana resident, Skip Allen and ice cream man Lamar Wilson of Lexington, Kentucky - who will be joined by surprise guest Big Bird from "Sesame Street." Audience members will also be generously surprised when the Christmas vault reveals its contents, which will include iPods, Jet Blue plane tickets and digital cameras.

Following "Deal or No Deal" is a special 12 Days of Christmas episode of "1 vs 100" (10-11 p.m. ET) with holiday-themed questions. Host Bob Saget introduces contestants Melanie Pino of Las Vegas, Nevada and Michael Zajaczkowski of Jersey City, New Jersey to the special Christmas mob in an attempt to win up to $1 million. The mob in comprised of Santa, elves, and the 12 Days of Christmas -- including 12 members of the University of Southern California marching band, 11 plumbers, 10 male ballet dancers, nine exotic female dancers, eight farmer′s wives, seven members of a swim team, six pregnant women, five boxers, four men named "Bird," three French chefs, two dove hunters and Danny Bonaduce as the partridge in a pear tree.

Casting Call For Adventure Reality Show NEVADA PASSAGE

THE NEVADA PASSAGE′ Adventure Reality Show Invites Public to ′Audition′ for 2007 Season

The Nevada Commission on Tourism (NCOT) will inject a new twist in the 2007 Nevada Passage made-for-television adventure competition, Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt announced Tuesday. The unique outdoor competition will feature an open audition for those who want to test their grit in Nevada′s wide-open terrain.

The Nevada Passage will bring 20 hand-picked athletes to Nevada May 7-12, 2007, to compete in a series of adventure sports and excursions in six outdoor destinations including Valley of Fire State Park, Amargosa Dunes, Rhyolite, Tonopah, Mount Rose and Carson City. Paired into 10 coed teams of two by profession, the athletes′ experiences will be filmed and edited into a one-hour television program to be syndicated in more than 80 U.S. markets between August 2007 and February 2008. It will be the third year NCOT has staged this competition.

"The past two years of ′The Nevada Passage′ series has been a tremendous success and helped highlight many of Nevada′s most cherished locations," Hunt, NCOT chair, said. "With the addition of a team from the public, this year′s competition will provide our audience the opportunity to participate and experience Nevada for themselves."

This year′s Nevada Passage will include a 10K run, bike trek, ATV dune race and back-country ski event as well as visits to the ghost town of Rhyolite and Carson City, Nevada′s state capital for a new "destination highlights" feature of the program that does not include a competition.

"An open audition for ′The Nevada Passage′ creates an additional buzz for the event and will allow the general public the opportunity to explore and compete in some of the most scenic and inspirational destinations in the world," NCOT Interim Director Larry Friedman said.

Online auditions, information and rules for "The Nevada Passage" can be found at www.nevadapassage.com, where viewers can watch the 2005 show. Required audition materials include a short video of the applicant stating why he or she should be selected as a competitor and a completed application. Audition materials will not be accepted past Jan. 31, 2007.

The stages of The Nevada Passage, which are subject to change because of weather and other conditions, are planned as follows:

Stage 1: Desert 10K run

Location: Valley of Fire State Park near Las Vegas

Stage 2: ATV competition

Location: Amargosa Dunes (approximately 100 miles northwest of Las Vegas)

Destination Highlight 1: Rhyolite (a ghost town northwest of Las Vegas)

Stage 3: Back-roads cycling

Location: Tonopah and Goldfield (between two historic mining towns U.S. Highway 95)

Stage 4: Back-country ski

Location: Mount Rose near Reno

Destination Highlight 2: Carson City/Carson Valley

About 5.4 million viewers have seen "The Nevada Passage" since it began nationwide syndication in August 2005 in more than 100 markets. TEAM Unlimited, a Honolulu-based television events and marketing company, developed and produces it.

Sugar, Spice And Everything Nice - Explore Your Inner Sweet Tooth

Sugar, Spice And Everything Nice - Explore Your Inner Sweet Tooth Just In Time For The Holidays

National Geographic Channel heads to some of America′s top factories to get the inside scoop on some of your favorite treats

Ever wonder what it would be like to go inside a candy factory like Charlie did in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"? Could there really be a chocolate river flowing through a garden of candy trees with little men in white overalls singing songs and making candy? Probably not, but the National Geographic Channel does hold the "golden ticket" to the inner workings behind some of America′s beloved sweet treats.

Premiering Wednesday, December 20, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on the National Geographic Channel (NGC), Sweet Tooth explores the mega-machines and factory secrets behind some famous confections. From the device that inserts the filling into Twinkies to the technology that breathes life into marshmallow Peeps, NGC goes inside top-secret factories to unravel the real-life magic behind Ben & Jerry′s, Red Vines, Twinkies, Jelly Belly and Peeps.,br>
Sweet Tooth examines the old-world traditions and high-tech advances that have made it possible for these companies to achieve sweet success. Interviews with highly trained designers, scientists and engineers, who go to great lengths to please the consumer′s sugar cravings, also add insight as to the nature of the business.

Go inside Ben & Jerry′s ice cream factory in Vermont to observe the innovation behind top-selling flavors such as Cherry GarciaR and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. Tour the factory and meet experts like ice cream scientician Derek Spors, whose "cool" job is to ensure all the ice cream that leaves the factory meets Ben &Jerry′s standards. Every 15 minutes, it is part of his job to take pints off the line and taste them to make sure everything is right!

At the American Licorice Company, NGC investigates the mystery flavor behind Red Vines "Original Red."′ If it′s not cherry and not strawberry - what is it? Witness a 90-year old process called the "slap test," which relies solely on human intuition to tell if the batter is worthy of becoming licorice. This tradition, combined with modern machinery, has made it possible for Red Vines to become a childhood favorite.

For over 75 years Twinkies have been an American tradition. Invented during the Great Depression as an alternative to strawberry shortcake, the mini-cakes have become a lunchbox staple. Each year, Hostess uses 8 million pounds of sugar, 7 million pounds of flour and 1 million eggs to churn out a half-billion Twinkies. Now, viewers will get a chance to examine the colossal and complex equipment Hostess relies on to keep up with its high demand. One of the most impressive pieces in the bakery is a 75-foot oven - that′s the size of three stretch limos!

Sweet Tooth also looks back on the history and origins of these treats to examine some of the old-world techniques still used in candy making today. For instance, the hard outer shell of a jelly bean originates from a 17th century French process that combines sugar and syrup. The Jelly Belly Candy Company has applied this method to the modern technology responsible for churning out its famous "50 flavors."

Then, sneak into the back room of the Just Born Company candy plant where the Peep was hatched. Did you know that Peeps were invented in the 1950s by a group of Amish workers who created marshmallow shapes using icing bags? Back then it took 27 hours to make a single Peep. Today it takes only six minutes! The machine responsible for the mass production of these marshmallow chicks is so ultra-secret that it was kept behind curtains while our camera crew was filming!

′Tis the season to eat, drink and satisfy your Sweet Tooth. Ben & Jerry′s, Red Vines, Twinkies, Jelly Belly and Peeps: you probably know the tastes; now learn about the science and technology behind these old-fashioned treats.

Sweet Tooth includes experts such as Arnold Carbone, conductor of Bizarre & D at Ben & Jerry′s; Leslie Norris, flavor chemist for FlavorSense; and Sam Torrence, president and chief operating officer of Just Born, Inc.

Down To Final Six On SURVIVOR COOK ISLANDS Tonight

Six Castaways Are Left, On SURVIVOR: COOK ISLANDS, Tonight

"I Have The Advantage...For Once" -- With only six castaways left, outsiders Parvati and Adam fight to stay in the game, on SURVIVOR: COOK ISLANDS, tonight (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network.

Parvati and Adam vow to win challenges and manipulate players in order to stay in the game.Ê Will they be successful in turning the tides? The Reward Challenge forces the castaways to get down and dirty in exchange for luxury pampering away from camp. Relaxing time at the reward allows one castaway to talk strategy with an otherwise enemy.Ê Can this outsider plant a seed that could turn the game around? Concerned about one of their ally′s strengths, two tribe mates talk about breaking up the Aitu alliance sooner than discussed. One castaway is caught trying to manipulate a member of the Aitu alliance just before Tribal CouncilÉwill they be shrewd enough to change the course of the game?

And, the 15th castaway is voted out of the tribe.

CASTAWAYS:

AITUTAKI:

J.P. Calderon (4th Voted Off), Cristina Coria (7th Voted Off), Billy Garcia (2nd Voted Off), Ozzy Lusth, Cecilia Mansilla (3rd Voted Off)

MANIHIKI:

Rebecca Borman (10th Voted Off), Sekou Bunch (1st Voted Off), Stephannie Favor (5th Voted Off), Nathan Gonzales (12th Voted Off), Sundra Oakley

PUKA PUKA:

Cao Boi Bui (6th Voted Off), Jenny Guzon-Bae (11th Voted Off), Yul Kwon, Becky Lee, Brad Virata (9th Voted Off)

RAROTONGA:

Adam Gentry, Jonathan Penner (14th Voted Off), Parvati Shallow, Jessica Smith (8th Voted Off), Candice Woodcock (13th Voted Off)

SURVIVOR: COOK ISLANDS is hosted by Jeff Probst and produced by SEG, Inc. Mark Burnett and Tom Shelly are the executive producers. Doug McCallie and Kevin Greene are co-executive producers.

Former FLAVOR OF LOVE Contestant Looking For Love In I LOVE NEW YORK!

VH1 Screams ′I Love New York!′

The Former ′Flavor of Love′ Contestant is Looking for Love During VH1′s New ′Celebreality′ Series ′I Love New York′

Catch the Full Premiere Episode on VSPOT at VH1.com Beginning Tuesday, January 2, One Week Before the On-air Premiere

7.5 million viewers tuned in to see "Flavor of Love" runner-up New York get kicked to the curb for the second time. After being twice jilted by Flavor Flav, New York aka Tiffany Pollard was given the chance to find her one true love, as a fresh crop of twenty men are brought together to compete for her heart during VH1′s newest "celebreality" show, "I Love New York" premiering on Monday, January 8 at 9:00 pm EST

Throughout the new series, cameras will follow these men as they try to win New York over with their physique, dating skills and bank accounts. These guys are flashy, bold and determined to get their woman -- at any cost. Coming along for the ride is her outspoken mom, Sister Patterson who will not be shy about who she likes and who she never wants to see again.

"New York is a beautiful, spirited and sexy woman who deserves a man who appreciates her -- she is also one of the most outrageous reality personalities we have ever seen -- this show should be a lot of fun," said executive producers Mark Cronin & Cris Abrego.

In addition to the VSPOT sneak peek of episode one on January 2, each episode will be available in its entirety on VSPOT for 48 hours every Friday following the on-air broadcast. VSPOT and VH1 On Demand are also airing exclusive "shorts" featuring New York and her mom evaluating candidates for the show. Catch an early glimpse of some of the men that will compete for New York′s hand and some that won′t make the cut. The shorts are currently available on VSPOT at http://vspot.vh1.com/ and will be available on VH1 On Demand across various cable providers′ VOD platforms on December 18.

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

Cast Announced For Season Five Of NASHVILLE STAR

Season Five Premieres Thursday, January 11 at (10pm/9c) With a Supercharged Extended 75-minute Episode

NASHVILLE STAR, the nation′s top-rated country music series, has named its season five cast, it was announced by Jeff Wachtel, USA′s executive vice president of original programming. The cast of ten was handpicked from over 20,000 country music hopefuls that participated in the nationwide search. Season five will kick off with a supercharged extended 75-minute episode on Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 10 pm/9c.

"Once again, the pool of talent exceeded all expectations," said Wachtel "The ten who made it to the finals are among the best performers and most distinctive personalities ever to appear on NASHVILLE STAR."

This years finalists represent country music′s broad appeal as the five men and five women range from age 18 to 36 and hail from all over the United States, the talented ten finalists are as follows:
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Meg Allison: From Chicago, IL, the 25-year-old windy city native is the quintessential American girl. Besides a sweet as sugar voice, Allison draws her inspiration from her mentally disabled sister and uses her voice to sing for both of them. A Graduate from Miami of Ohio University, she is ready to charm Nashville with her voice and smile.

Whitney Duncan: Duncan, a self described tomboy with supermodel looks has spent her entire life overcoming obstacles and looks at NASHVILLE STAR as her next challenge to tackle. The 22-year-old from Scotts Hill, TN has had medical battles from two-years-old when she had heart surgery to her kidney surgery at age 17. Duncan′s fight with her health propelled her drive to fight and succeed. By age 19, she had already performed a duet with the legendary Kenny Rogers.

Angela Hacker: This 29-year-old mother from Florence, AL sees this competition as her last chance to achieve her dream of country music stardom. Her soulful voice and loving demeanor will be sure to capture the hearts of America but her own family might be split when it comes to voting as she′ll be competing against her brother.

Zac Hacker: Younger brother of fellow finalist Angela, Zac is also from Florence, AL and has made his living playing music and singing since age 17. Now 23, his voice has amazing depth and feeling as he lives his life with the memories of mistakes made by his musician father who has battled drug and alcohol addiction.

Tim LaRoche: If fun, adventure and personality could be wrapped up into one name it would be Tim LaRoche. With his unique look and style, this 36-year-old stay-at-home dad from rural White House, TN lives life to the fullest and enjoys performing and getting a crowd going. Born in Iceland and raised in Massachusetts, LaRoche brings his own form of country music to NASHVILLE STAR.

Kacey Musgraves: This 18-year-old from Golden, TX might just have graduated high school but she is not a newbie to the music scene already having performed at the Presidential inauguration, the Olympics and on The TODAY Show. Still a small town girl, Musgraves′ hometown has less than 300 people.

Rickiejoleen: Rickiejoleen puts the "r" in rebel. The 18-year-old from Tempe, AZ left school in eighth grade and has never looked back. A loner at heart, Rickiejoleen won′t back down from anyone or any challenge.

David St. Romain: Recently becoming a first-time father, this Cajun from Baton Rouge, LA has a very strong and passionate voice mixed with a fun-loving personality. At 28-years-old, St. Romain has a new baby girl and a lot more now riding on achieving his goal to be the next NASHVILLE STAR.

Joshua Stevens: With pop star looks and a country music life Stevens will be a force in Nashville. The 28-year-old from Churchville, IA is happily married with two kids but also finds inspiration from his estranged relationship with his mother, whom he has not seen 18 years. Already with a publishing deal as a songwriter, Stevens is ready for the competition.

Dustin Wilkes: A former Marine, Wilkes is a true country boy. The 26-year-old from Jefferson, GA is a former bouncer at the famed Nashville music bar Tootsie′s where he still currently headlines. As a baby, Wilkes was adopted by his grandmother because his birth mother was too young to raise him.

As previously announced, the winner of NASHVILLE STAR will receive a recording contract from Warner Music Group, home to multi-platinum and platinum superstars such as Faith Hill, Big and Rich, Randy Travis, The Wreckers, NASHVILLE STAR co-host Cowboy Troy and NASHVILLE STAR judge Blake Shelton.

Caridee English Wins Seventh Cycle Of AMERICAS NEXT TOP MODEL

Caridee English Is AMERICA′S NEXT TOP MODEL

CariDee English, a photographer from Fargo, ND, was crowned AMERICAS NEXT TOP MODEL in the finale of the seventh cycle of The CW′s hit dramality series.

The three remaining girls participated in a national television commercial and photo shoot for CoverGirl′s Outlast Double Lip Shine. The next day, the finalists faced the judges for the 11th elimination of the competition. While the judges were pleased with all of the girls′ performances in the commercial, they thought CariDee showed the most personality. The judges decided that while Eugena had a natural beauty, Melrose showed more passion and drive, thus eliminating Eugena from the competition.

As finalists, CariDee and Melrose conducted a photo shoot for Seventeen magazine. Editor-in-Chief Atoosa Rubenstein was impressed with both girls, however she noted that CariDee had improved the most since the beginning of the season. "CariDee is more than just a pretty face. I feel like she′s a strong girl," Atoosa said.

The following day, CariDee and Melrose faced off against each other in a theatrical fashion runway show by designers Victorio and Lucchino. The girls portrayed ghostly brides and, at one point, had to stare each other down on the runway. "It′s the battle of the blondes," CariDee said.

During the final elimination, the judges considered the runway performances from the final runway challenge, as well as each girl′s photos and their overall performance throughout the competition. The judges agreed that Melrose was stronger in her runway walk, but CariDee′s exquisite CoverGirl photo and her exuberant personality would be embraced by the fashion world. "My dream has always been to model. You guys believed in me. That′s amazing," CariDee said after Tyra announced that she had become America′s Next Top Model.

In addition to a $100,000 contract with cosmetics giant CoverGirl, this year′s prize package for the winner of The CW′s America′s Next Top Model will include a contract with Elite Model Management and a cover and six-page fashion spread in Seventeen magazine.

Making its debut on The CW, the seventh cycle of the dramality series America′s Next Top Model follows 13 young women as they attempt to prove they have what it takes to make it in the high-stress world of modeling. Banks, who created the show, also serves as executive producer along with Ken Mok ("Making the Band") and Anthony Dominici ("The Amazing Race").

VH1 Announces THE RETURN OF COURTNEY LOVE - Features Never-Before-Seen Home Movies of Courtney and Kurt

THE RETURN OF COURTNEY LOVE To Have Its U.S. Premiere On VH1 On Saturday, December 16 At 9:00 pm EST

The Film Also Features Never-Before-Seen Home Movies of Courtney and Kurt

THE RETURN OF COURTNEY LOVE will have its U.S. Premiere on VH1 on Saturday, December, 16 at 9:00 pm EST

Much of Courtney Love′s chaotic life has played out before us in the tabloids but she has never agreed to take part in a documentary - until now. This is an intimate portrait of one of the most controversial and complicated women in modern popular culture. Recently out of rehab after 18 months, Courtney has been busy getting her life back on track. We catch up with her as she begins recording a new album, rebuilding relationships with her friends, and bonding with daughter Frances.

The film allows Love the chance to look back at her tumultuous life and reflect on her career, the relationships that shaped her life, drug addiction, and the tragic death of husband Kurt Cobain. Filmed in her California home and at the recording studio, the film also features Love′s new music and unseen home movie footage of her and Cobain. "The Return of Courtney Love" documents her personal and professional comeback with searing and sometimes brutal honesty.

The full episode will be available on VSPOT, VH1′s broadband channel beginning Sunday, December 17 at http://vspot.vh1.com. For more information on "The Return of Courtney Love," visit http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/vh1_rock_docs/112303/episode.jhtml.

SHOW ME THE MONEY Renewed For Six More Episodes - Heading To New Time

SHOW ME THE MONEY Picked Up For Six Additional Episodes; Premieres On A New Day And Time, Tuesdays AT 8:00 P.M., JANUARY 2, 2007

ABC′s new variety/game show, "Show Me the Money," hosted by William Shatner, has been picked up for an additional six-episode order.

ABC′s "Show Me the Money" draws 7.5 million viewers and a 2.1 rating, 6 share among Adults 18-49, ranking second in its 8 o′clock hour in viewers. From its first half-hour to its second half-hour, the William Shatner hosted game show sees increases in both viewers (7.5 million to 7.6 million) and young adults 18-49 (2.0/6 to 2.2/6).

About "Show Me the Money":

"Show Me the Money," the high-octane variety/game show series hosted by Emmy-winning television legend William Shatner, will move to its new time period, TUESDAYS (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET), effective JANUARY 2, 2007 on the ABC Television Network.

"Show Me the Money" contestants must answer a minimum of six trivia questions. After each answer, the contestant must choose from among thirteen stunning dancers on stage, each of whom holds a scroll with a dollar figure to be added or subtracted - for correct or incorrect answers -- to the contestant′s total.

A correct answer combined with choosing a dancer holding big money can quickly catapult the player′s winnings into the millions. But a wrong answer combined with the wrong dancer can wipe out winnings in an instant. There is no opportunity to play it safe - contestants will be tempted to take the money and run, but this rollercoaster ride of a game show requires that you play to the very end.

Adding to the variety aspect of the show are thirteen dazzling Million Dollar Dancers ready to break into any style of dance, while audacious master of ceremonies William Shatner spontaneously boogies with the beauties on stage.

Thursday, December 07, 2006

Tonight On SURVIVOR - Seven Castaways Are Left And The Loved Ones Arrive

"Arranging A Hit" -- With only seven castaways left, the Loved Ones arrive in hopes of winning the reward, on SURVIVOR: COOK ISLANDS, Tonight (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network.

Prior to the Reward Challenge, Parvati is seriously hurt when she slices her finger with a machete, forcing the Medical Team to arrive at camp. How will this injury affect her position in the game and her ability to perform at the Reward Challenge? One alliance devises a plan to hide food from their competing tribe members in an effort to make them hungry and weak. At the Immunity Challenge, balance and agility are assets.

And, the 14th castaway is voted out of the tribe.

CASTAWAYS:

AITUTAKI:

J.P. Calderon (4th Voted Off), Cristina Coria (7th Voted Off), Billy Garcia (2nd Voted Off), Ozzy Lusth, Cecilia Mansilla (3rd Voted Off)

MANIHIKI:

Rebecca Borman (10th Voted Off), Sekou Bunch (1st Voted Off), Stephannie Favor (5th Voted Off), Nathan Gonzales (12th Voted Off), Sundra Oakley

PUKA PUKA:

Cao Boi Bui (6th Voted Off), Jenny Guzon-Bae (11th Voted Off), Yul Kwon, Becky Lee, Brad Virata (9th Voted Off)

RAROTONGA:

Adam Gentry, Jonathan Penner, Parvati Shallow, Jessica Smith (8th Voted Off), Candice Woodcock (13th Voted Off)

SURVIVOR: COOK ISLANDS is hosted by Jeff Probst and produced by SEG, Inc. Mark Burnett and Tom Shelly are the executive producers. Doug McCallie and Kevin Greene are co-executive producers.

National Geographic Channel Explores The Myths, Traditions And Science Of Christmas

UNWRAPPING YULETIDE LORE - National Geographic Channel Explores The Myths, Traditions And Science Of Christmas

From the Evolution of Jolly Saint Nick to the Science of Holiday Shopping, CHRISTMAS OUT OF THE BOX Shows You There′s More to the Holiday than Ornaments and Mistletoe

Christmas is a "magical time of year," exploding with activity and ritual. It′s steeped in a host of vivid symbols: from candy canes to carolers, from red-nosed reindeer to heavily trafficked window displays. With warm, familiar images in mind, this enchanting holiday leaves little room for surprise. Or does it?

Do you know why North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) started simulating Santa′s Christmas Eve flight with its radar? Or what commercial product helped shape Santa′s modern-day image? Got a clue to what the best-selling Christmas toy of all time is?

Premiering Wednesday, December 20, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the National Geographic Channel (NGC), Christmas Out of the Box unwraps the myths and shines the lights on the scientific and historical reasoning behind this celebrated holiday. From the physics behind Santa′s global trek, to the analysis of real reindeer noses (hint: they don′t light up), to new theories behind the biblical star of Bethlehem, the show digs into the little-known factoids and pop culture conventions.

For millions of children, Santa is one of the most well-loved and recognizable holiday figures, known instantly by his red velvet suit, white beard and big laugh. But do we really know the jolly man and where he came from? Christmas Out of the Box reveals the changing historical nature of Santa Claus, from the leaner, more solemn Father Christmas in England and Sinterklaas in Holland, to the 1823 poem giving Saint Nick a bag of toys and a chimney to climb, to the 1931 Coca Cola ad campaign that would set the pattern for future Santas.

And for those of you who don′t depend on Santa for your holiday gifts, find out how retailers use science to maximize their annual $450 billion jackpot. Christmas Out of the Box talks to Paco Underhill, a so-called retail anthropologist, who deconstructs the logistics behind Santa′s placement in retail stores, the use of alluring smells and music that makes people dig into their wallets.

"If I′m a good merchant," says Underhill, "I′m conscious of finding ways to tickle every sense that I possibly can. So I give them a good smell, the right music. What merchants are doing is tapping into those warm, intimate moments when I watched Mama decorate the tree."

Which toy will be this year′s hottest "must-have?" Meet Chris Byrne, who makes a living studying new toys that come on the market. Will it be the latest electronic gizmo or a kid-powered favorite? Regardless of its technical complexity, Byrne says the best toy is one that sticks around for a decade or more. "Fundamental elements of play don′t change no matter how technological the world becomes."

The show details the origins of how NORAD got into the Christmas spirit, using radar to simulate Santa′s around-the-world flight. After a newspaper in 1955 misprinted a "Santa hotline" number, inserting NORAD′s instead, NORAD was flooded with calls from kids. Staffers responded by saying they would check their radar images on Christmas Eve and alert callers to Santa′s whereabouts . and the tradition continues today.

Move over, Starship Enterprise! Physicist Gabriel Durkin calculates that Santa would need to travel over 780 times the speed of the space shuttle, or roughly 3,800 miles per second, to get the job done. Christmas Out of the Box explores the science behind other aspects of the traditional holiday, including the polar environment surrounding Santa′s workshop, and - while it doesn′t light up - the truly incredible abilities of a reindeer′s nose.

Christmas Out of the Box also reveals how our farmers grow Christmas trees to live up to our expectations; how Hallmark unintentionally influenced our use of wrapping paper; and how the famous Macy′s scenic Christmas windows have evolved over 100 years. Other experts included in the program include Karal Ann Marling, professor of art history and American studies, Tim Connaghan, professional Santa Claus and astronomer Michael Molnar.

TLC Offers Hope For Desperate Parents With Reality Series THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS

Parents Enter A Life-Changing Last Resort In TLC′S THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS

Six-Night Event Kicks Off December 10 at 8 PM (ET/PT) with Two-Hour Special

The Learning Channel offers hope for desperate parents with THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS, a new series that follows three families as they struggle to regain control of their kids and their lives. Struggling with severe behavioral issues, the distraught families agree to move into a custom-designed home for six days, under the watchful eye of clinical psychologist Dr. Tanya Byron, who offers sound, honest advice.

Hosted by author and mother Karen "Duff" Duffy, THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS premieres Sunday, December 10, with two back-to-back episodes from 8Ð10 PM (ET/PT). It continues nightly through Friday, December 15, from 8Ð9 PM (ET/PT).

THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS tackles common struggles that many families experience on a daily basis. With more than 35 hidden cameras, viewers will see distressed families coping with a hyperactive three-year-old who thinks he is the head of the household, two-year-old twins who refuse to eat and go to sleep on time, and a two-year-old who constantly hits and bites his mom.

Getting at the root of the misconduct is THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS resident expert Dr. Byron, who critiques the activities and choices of the children to offer simple solutions that cut through the destructive dynamics and effect long-term change for each family. Through video sharing and private consultations, the parents are confronted head-on and, as a result, are able to begin making changes in their discipline styles and their own behavior. Through their work with Dr. Byron, and with two other families under the same roof for venting and encouragement, the experience becomes one of mutual support, with everyone completely focused on this intense personal and emotional journey.

"There is no greater change in one′s life than becoming a parent," says David Abraham, executive vice president and general manager of TLC. "THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS brims with solutions to the problems parents encounter. Viewers will surely see something of themselves in the three participating families and know that they are not in this alone."

Once the families enter the THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS, they will need to open up to Dr. Byron, to the other families - and most of all to themselves - about the issues they face, and work on them to find a resolution. A life-changing last resort, THE HOUSE OF TINY TERRORS is these parents′ best hope to turn their families′ lives around.

Wednesday, December 06, 2006

BRITAIN′S NEXT TOP MODEL Coming to America - To Air On The CW

Two Specials Featuring BRITAIN′S NEXT TOP MODEL

Cycles 1 &Amp; 2 To Air In December

The CW will give American viewers a holiday treat this December with two specials featuring great moments from the first two cycles of Britain's Next Top Model, the popular U.K. series based on Tyra Banks′ original smash hit, America′s Next Top Model.

Next Top Model: British Invasion airs Wednesday, December 13 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET) and Next Top Model: British Invasion 2 airs Wednesday, December 20 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET) on The CW. Much like the original America Next Top Model, cameras capture each moment as participants are asked to demonstrate both inner and outer beauty while mastering complicated catwalks, intense physical fitness, fashion photo shoots, publicity skills and challenges, all under 24-hour-a-day surveillance.

Next Top Model: British Invasion encompasses the best moments of the show′s premiere cycle. Judges include ex-supermodel Lisa Butcher, model Marie Helvin and hair/make-up agency owner Jonathan Phang, who critique and guide twelve aspiring models from all over the U.K.

Next Top Model: British Invasion 2 features the second cycle and introduces two new judges, including host and British cover girl/superstar Lisa Snowdon, international model Paula Hamilton, who appear along with returning judge Jonathan Phang. The model wanabees are surprised with intense photo shoots and tough competitions.

An encore performance of Next Top Model: British Invasion will air Sunday, December 17 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET), and an encore of Next Top Model: British Invasion 2 will air Sunday, December 24 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET)

Britain′s Next Top Model is part of an exclusive UK format deal between LIVINGtv and CBS Paramount International Television. The show is based on the format from the hit U.S. series, America′s Next Top Model, the number one show on The CW network.

America′s Next Top Model is created by world-renowned supermodel Tyra Banks. Banks also serves as executive producer of the series with Ken Mok and Anthony Dominici. America′s Next Top Model is produced by 10 by 10 Entertainment in association with Bankable Productions. There are currently 15 local versions, including Britain, Australia, Germany, Russia, China, Canada, France, Hungary, Czech Republic, Holland, Philippines, Thailand, Norway, Turkey and Brazil.

ONE PUNK UNDER GOD With Christian Minister Jay Bakker Coming To Sundance Channel

ONE PUNK UNDER GOD an original six-part documentary series on the alternative Christian minister Jay Bakker, will premiere on Sundance Channel on Wednesday, December 13 at 9:00 pm e/p. Produced by World of Wonder, the series takes a behind-the-scenes look at the life of Bakker as he faces the professional, emotional and financial struggles of running his Revolution church in Atlanta, Georgia. The series will air on Wednesdays at 9:00pm e/p from December 13 to January 17.

Jay Bakker, the only son of former Praise The Lord leaders, Jim Bakker and Tammy Faye Messner, a tattooed and pierced preacher, is not necessarily the image of an American evangelist. His resolutely maverick stance and open tolerance for alternative lifestyle choices irritate traditional religious leaders and make keeping his Church afloat challenging. But by fusing together punk and Christian values to create a non-denominational and inclusive parish, he is working to show the world just how hip and welcoming today′s churches can be.

World of Wonder principals Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey said "since we first met Jay eight years ago while filming The Eyes of Tammy Faye we have wanted to make a film about him. Thanks to the Sundance Channel′s bold vision and commitment to documentary filmmaking, and thanks also to the talents of Jeremy Simmons and Thairin Smothers we now have that opportunity."

The December schedule for ONE PUNK UNDER GOD is as follows: December 13 at 9:00pm e/p

Episode 1. In Atlanta, 30-year-old Jay Bakker follows his own path as the founder of the alternative Christian ministry Revolution; nothing about him follows the traditional Christian playbook -- from how he looks (tattooed, pierced and bespectacled in a Social Distortion t-shirt) to where and when he preaches. As he ponders the future of his twelve-year-old church, Jay consults with his wife, Amanda and with Revolution′s director, Stu Damron, a sucessful businessman. Jay′s punk-rock pastorship reflects the painful lessons learned from the downfall of his famous father, Jim, although he remains in awe of his father′s piety and preaching. Father and son have long had a troubled relationship, but the grave illness of Jay′s mother, Tammy Faye Messner, has increased Jay′s longing for reconciliation. The contradictions of Jay′s life come into relief as he travels to his childhood home retreat, Heritage USA, the now-defunct "Christian theme park" built by Jim in the 1980s. Jay decides to make the first move in reaching out to his dad.

December 20 at 9:00pm e/p
Episode 2. After speaking at the gay-affirming church Open Door, Jay embarks on a soul-searching journey to define his stance on homosexuality. Meanwhile, Jay′s efforts to get in touch with Jim Bakker finally bear fruit, news he shares during a warm visit with his mother, Tammy Faye. Jay now has in mind to pay his father a long overdue visit. In Atlanta, Jay delivers one of the most important sermons of his life.

December 27 at 9:00pm e/p

Episode 3. Jay′s strong gay-affirming stance begins to impact Revolution′s financial health, and he finds himself debating the nuances of compromise and principle with his childhood friend, also a pastor, following a speaking engagement. Amanda decides to pursue her dream of a psychology career, setting her sights on New York University′s pre-med program. While Amanda struggles to complete her application, Jay travels alone to Branson, Missouri to see his father for the first time in two years -- an emotionally charged visit that includes an appearance on Jim′s new TV show.

January 3 at 9:00pm e/p

Episode 4. Jay visits his fathers and makes an appearance on the "The New Jim Bakker Show." Upon his return to Atlanta, Jay is greeted with grim news about a Revolution donor and Stu suggests Jay try a New Testament approach to fundraising. Before Jay can decide, however, another piece of news arrives: Amanda has been accepted at NYU. With Amanda′s happiness and his marriage in the balance, Jay faces the prospect of leaving not only the city he loves, but the church that he founded seven years ago. And if Jay leaves, what will become of Revolution?

January 10 at 9:00pm e/p

Episode 5. Jay and Amanda travel to New York to see the city before making their final choice about the move. While Amanda is excited and energized, Jay worries about feeling comfortable in this intense, often overwhelming city and the potential impact on the couple′s marriage. Jay is also struggling with the prospect of moving so far from his mother, and a heart-wrenching visit to Tammy Faye in North Carolina reveals the scope of her deteriorating health.

January 17 at 9:00pm e/p

Episode 6. Jay and Amanda transition into their new lives in Brooklyn, where Jay begins the campaign to build his new ministry, Revolution NYC. The daunting task of establishing a ministry in a new city is made even more difficult as Jay continues to struggle with Tammy Faye′s declining health. Jay and Amanda take another trip to North Carolina to be with her, and the series concludes with their return to New York, where emotions run high as Jay adjusts to his new ministry and continues working to re-connect with his father, Jim Bakker.

The director and supervising producer of ONE PUNK UNDER GOD is Jeremy Simmons, whose credits include the television documentaries Sundance Channel′s "TransGeneration" (produced in association with LOGO) and MTV′s "School′s Out: The Life of a Gay High School in Texas" (both GLAAD Award nominees for Outstanding Documentary) and AMC′s "Gay Hollywood." "One Punk, Under God" is produced by Thairin Smothers and executive produced by award-winning filmmakers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, founders of film and television production company World of Wonder. As directors/producers, their credits include the documentaries Inside Deep Throat, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, and Party Monster: The Michael Alig Story, as well as the 2003 drama Party Monster. Executive producers for Sundance Channel are Laura Michalchyshyn and Lynne Kirby. Ann Rose is the supervising producer.

Under the creative direction of Robert Redford, Sundance Channel is the television destination for independent-minded viewers seeking something different. Bold, uncompromising and irreverent, Sundance Channel offers audiences a diverse and engaging selection of films, documentaries, and original programs, all unedited and commercial free. Launched in 1996, Sundance Channel is a venture of NBC Universal, Showtime Networks Inc. and Robert Redford. Sundance Channel operates independently of the non-profit Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival, but shares the overall Sundance mission of encouraging artistic freedom of expression. Sundance Channel′s website address is www.sundancechannel.com.