Sunday, April 30, 2006

Brooke′s New Boyfriend On HOGAN KNOWS BEST Tonight on VH1

Brooke is practicing her songs for a big showcase at a Miami nightclub and she asks Jerry, a fellow touring musician, to come to Florida to help her prepare.

But it seems that Jerry is more than just a friend. Hulk gets worried he may no longer be the main man in Brooke′s life.

So he decides to put Jerry through various tests of manhood to see if he′s Hogan material.

This episode of HOGAN KNOWS BEST premieres tonight at 9:30 pm EST on VH1.

For more information on HOGAN KNOWS BEST go to: http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/hogan_knows_best_2/series.jhtml

Battle of the 80′s Hair Bands On SURREAL LIFE 6 On VH1 Tonight

The Surreal Lifers learn that today is Battle of the 80′s Hair Bands.

CC and the rest of the gang are challenged by Poison tribute band Posin to rock their wigs off performing the Poison hit TALK DIRTY TO ME.

Tawny is road manager of the band and sets off the rest of the house with her bizarre behavior and inability to run the show.

Alexis and Steve both mutiny, and CC is sure this will be the time he grabs a drink because the pressure to perform well is overwhelming.

Later, Andrea unleashes her hatred of Florence to a bewildered Maven. She claims that Flo unfairly judges her, and sees her only for her Playboy work. Andrea complains that she takes her clothes off because she can, and challenges Florence to "take your clothes off. You won′t look half as good as I do."

This episode of SURREAL LIFE premieres tonight at 9:00 pm EST on VH1.

For more information on SURREAL LIFE 6 go to: http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_surreal_life_6/series.jhtml

Saturday, April 29, 2006

ABC Announces AMERICAN INVENTOR Season Finale Set For May 18 - Viewers Result Show

ABC has announced that a two hour special of AMERICAN INVENTOR will be shown Thursday, May 18th

AMERICAN INVENTOR "THE FINALE" - Thursday, May 18 (8:00-9:00 a.m., ET) - Viewers will see the four finalists struggle to make a 30-second commercial that best highlights their invention. The commercials will be shown and America will vote on who should win the one million dollar prize and become the next great "American Inventor." (This will be a rebroadcast of the show of 5/11/06)

AMERICAN INVENTOR "THE FINALE RESULTS SHOW" - SEASON FINALE - Thursday, May 18 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) - The winner who received the most votes nationwide will be revealed and will receive one million dollars.

Season Finale Set For EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION - Fire Destroys Adopted Special Needs Children

ABC has announced a Two Hour Season Finale for EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION - "TURNER FAMILY" Parts 1 & 2 - Two-Part Season Finale -- Sunday, May 21 (7:00-8:00 & 8:00--9:00 p.m., ET)

A devastating house fire that left the Turner family homeless, EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION helps rebuild the life and home of Beverly Turner from Irvington, NJ, a mom of 18 adopted special needs children, to accommodate her happy and large brood.

Friday, April 28, 2006

It Is All About Hair In The Next THE APPRENTICE - Tammy Leads Viewers Polls

Tammy Leads The NBC.com Voting Polls For The Second Week In A Row

The eight remaining candidates travel to Long Island to put together grand openings for two new Hair Cuttery Salons on NBC's THE APPRENTICE, (Monday, May 1st, 9-10 p.m. ET/PT). The team with the most revenue from the one-day grand opening event wins and collaborates with legendary songwriter Burt Bacharach, while the losers sing a different tune in a heated boardroom.

Sean admits to a crush on a teammate, while one of the project managers decides to sit back and get her hair blown out. The winners collaborate with composer and artist Burt Bacharach at the historical Steinway Hall to create an original song.

Apprentice fans can log on to http://www.NBC.com to vote for their favorite candidate and track their weekly progress. Leading the online voting for the second week in a row is Tammy (Los Angeles, Ca.) with 27 percent of the votes; followed by Roxanne (Austin, Tx.) with 18 percent and Lee (New York) with 16 percent.

Viewers of NBC′s THE APPRENTICE still have the chance to roll in the dough with a weekly Grand Prize random drawing of $10,000 by playing the live interactive "Get Rich With Trump" game during each episode. "Get Rich With Trump" can be played by sending a text message from a cell phone or by logging onto http://www.NBC.com/APPRENTICE.

Please log onto http://www.NBC.com for complete rules.

"Gold Rush" - Charmaine, Lee, Tarek, Michael

"Synergy" - Allie, Roxanne, Sean, Tammy

THE AMAZING RACE 9 Finale May 17 - Two Hour Special

CBS has announced that THE AMAZING RACE 9 season finale will be Wednesday, May 17 with a two hour special prsesentation.

Phil Keoghan hosts this special where the final three teams race to the finish line. The winner of the race will win one million dollars.

The finale is scheduled to be seen on May 17th at 8:00 PM until 10:00 PM, ET/PT.

Thursday, April 27, 2006

NASHVILLE STAR 90 Minute Finale May 4th - Down To Final 3 Contestants

Single ′Hicktown′ With All 10 Nashville Star Contestants

Nicole Jamrose, Casey Rivers and Chris Young Are Final 3 Contestants

NASHVILLE STAR, the nation′s top-rated country music series, will crown its winner in the fourth season finale, which will feature a live opening performance by country superstars Big & Rich and a closing performance by ACM Top New Male Vocalist nominee Jason Aldean, in a 90-minute episode airing live on Tuesday, May 2 at 10PM / 9PM Central on USA Network.

"The competition this season has been fierce. Week after week, the voting has been the closest in history," said executive producer Jeff Boggs. "Whoever wins will have put up the fight of their life."

Big & Rich will join Cowboy Troy to perform "My Last Yeehaw" and also sit in as guest judges during the 90-minute episode in which America will choose its next NASHVILLE STAR from the three remaining finalists. To close out the season finale, Broken Bow Records′ Jason Aldean will rock his smash hit single "Hicktown" with all ten contestants returning to join him for the final moments of season four.

"John and Big Kenny played such an integral role in our casting process this year and have been through this with us since the beginning," explains Libby Hansen, USA Network′s vice president of alternative series & specials. "It feels like we are coming full circle by having them back to perform and judge on our final episode."

Last Tuesday′s episode of NASHVILLE STAR (4/25/06) was the most-watched (2.6 million viewers) and highest rated (2.1 household rating) of the season. Season four is performing 7% above last year′s Season three with an average 2.6 million viewers per regular season episode. Phone and internet voting has also reached record highs this season with Tuesday's episode bringing in 2.4 million votes cast, which is up over 36% from same episode last season.

Only three contestants remain vying for the title of NASHVILLE STAR. The next winner of will be awarded a Sony BMG Nashville recording contract, as well as a Chevy Silverado Truck and an appearance on the famous Grand Ole Opry:

Chris Young: Chris is a multi-talented 20 year-old with a flair for singing, songwriting and dancing. Chris considers himself an expert at Line Dancing and Hip-Hop. He is from Murfreesboro, TN and has a fan club of hundreds who follow him religiously across the country.

Nicole Jamrose: A 33 year-old mother of two from Schererville, IN, Nicole brings her folk- infused sound to the show. Nicole′s Nashville Star auditions marks her one and only contention for any talent show title and was blown away to find out that she will be one of the ten finalists.

Casey Rivers: Casey is a native of Lindale, Texas and hopes to follow in the footsteps of Lindale′s other NASHVILLE STAR alum, Miranda Lambert. Casey is 23 and claims he briefly dated Miranda in high school. He has already shared the stage with country music greats Loretta Lynn and Willie Nelson.

Even runners-up come away with something most country music artists work years to achieve. "NASHVILLE STAR was like a ten-week audition in front of every record label VIP in Nashville and country music fans across the country," says season one runner-up and Sony Music recording artist Miranda Lambert.

Fox Reality Announces MY BARE LADY - Porn Stars In An English Acting School

Fox Reality Announces New Original Programming: MY BARE LADY; Transatlantic Co-Production with Zig Zag Productions Promises to "Reveal All"

Fox Reality, the only All Reality, All The Time channel, today announced a brand new US/UK co-production with Zig Zag Productions. The new Fox Reality Original, MY BARE LADY, is a series of three, one-hour shows slated to air on the US cable and satellite network in the latter half of '06. The series will follow top US female porn stars who want to see if they can give leading British thespians a run for their money.

Many adult film stars think they can act, but can they cut it in the refined and stuffy world of an English acting school? MY BARE LADY is a must-see reality series in which viewers find out if four female U.S. adult stars can make it as legitimate actors in a matter of weeks. They will feel like fish out of water as they swap sex for soliloquies.

After a casting call in Los Angeles, an established British theatre director will select his performers. He will bring them to London and put them through an intensive three week transformation. What happens when you take a group of American porn stars and thrust them on stage in London's famous theatre-land to perform a classic play? MY BARE LADY will reveal all...

Fox Reality CEO & General Manager David Lyle said, "We look forward to working with this great British production company and creating an ambitious docu-soap. And it is a wonderful concept to have a production that shoots on both sides of the Atlantic, highlighting a humorous and all-too-real culture clash."

"Zig Zag is very excited about this new and irreverent series for Fox Reality," said Danny Fenton, Managing Director, Zig Zag. "We are really pleased to be making one of the first original commissions for the channel and appreciate their boldness and distinct new flavor. It typifies the freshness of Fox Reality to seize on an idea like MY BARE LADY."

SCI FI Announces DESTINATION TRUTH - Reality Stories Of The Unexplained

SCI FI Channel′s Mark Stern, EVP, Original Programming, announced a new alternative reality, DESTINATION TRUTH, for the Network.

From Neil and Michael Mandt, DESTINATION TRUTH takes us on one man′s search for the truth in a reality show that investigates stories of the unexplained across the globe.

The show, hosted by Josh Gates, is a credible investigation of these stories with a first-person style that often alternates between moments of dramatic tension and humor.

Every week, Josh visits a different destination around the world that is home to notorious supernatural and mysterious stories, such as the Fire Worm of Mongolia or the Chupacabra of Chile. He attempts to get to the truth by talking to witnesses and experts while immersing himself in situations that, while bizarre, are real and relatable.

No release date for DESTINATION TRUTH has been set.

Sitcom Based On Winner Of Reality Series FUNNIEST MOM IN AMERICA WINNER

Nick At Nite To Produce Original Sitcom Based On Network′s First FUNNIEST MOM IN AMERICA WINNER Nick at Nite has secured celebrity comic and writer Carol Leifer (SEINFELD, THE LARRY SANDERS SHOW) to pen and executive produce the sitcom pilot for Darlene Westgor, who won the chance to develop her own show with the network when she was named Nick at Nite′s FUNNIEST MOM IN AMERICA in 2005. The pilot, tentatively titled DARLENE, is based on Westgor′s real life as a single, divorced mom living and working in Minnesota. The pilot is expected to go into pre-production immediately with plans to shoot in Los Angeles in May. Gil Junger (ELLEN, HOPE & FAITH, 8 SIMPLE RULES) will direct. Sal Maniaci also executive produces on the project and TV Land′s Marco Bresaz is executive in charge of production.

Set in the Minneapolis suburbs, Darlene focuses on the ins and outs of Westgor′s life as a single parent raising two teenagers while managing her job at an Urgent Care Center. Darlene responds to these everyday situations with the wit and sarcasm that made her the hands-down winner of the first Funniest Mom in America contest.

"We are thrilled to have Carol, Gil and Darlene working together to bring this show to life," states Sal Maniaci, Senior Vice President of Development and Original Production for TV Land and Nick at Nite. "Carol′s extremely funny and has a keen ear for Darlene′s voice. Gil is the perfect guy to nurture talent and help build a show around this premise. The caliber of talent on this show is phenomenal. We definitely hit the trifecta."

"The minute I saw Darlene perform I knew she had a hysterical and unique take on being a single, working Mom today" said Carol Leifer. "She reminds me of Roseanne when she first started out - a completely relatable act to millions of women out there."

Carol Leifer is an Emmy-nominated writer/producer (SEINFELD, THE LARRY SANDERS SHOW, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE) who has also written and produced five of her own stand-up comedy specials, the most recent being for Comedy Central. She continues to tour around the country as one of the opening acts for Jerry Seinfeld. She will be appearing as a guest star on WILL & GRACE on May 4th.

Having worked on over 600 episodes of television, Gil Junger is a veteran producer and director. Directing credits include HOPE AND FAITH, 8 SIMPLE RULES, ACCORDING TO JIM, DHARMA AND GREG AND BLOSSOM. Additionally, Junger was nominated for an Emmy and Director′s Guild Award for directing the episode of ELLEN in which the lead character, played by Ellen DeGeneres, reveals that she is a lesbian. Gil has also directed feature films including 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU.

Darlene Westgor was selected to be a part of Nick at Nite′s first SEARCH FOR THE FUNNIEST MOM IN AMERICA contest and in May 2005, performed before an audience and a panel of celebrity judges - one of whom was Carol Leifer. The judges decided that Westgor was "The Funniest Mom in America." As the winner of the competition, Darlene received a development deal with the network as the top prize. Darlene is the mother of two boys and now has started a career in stand-up comedy.

Back for a second season, Nick at Nite′s SEARCH FOR THE FUNNIEST MOM IN AMERICA 2 kicked off on the network on April 4. Darlene Westgor, last year′s winner, makes a cameo appearance in the show when she attends a party with the moms and ends up being a voice of encouragement and inspiration. Hosted by actress Katey Sagal, this five-part reality series will culminate with an hour-long finale on Tuesday, May 9 from 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (ET/PT) in which judges Mario Cantone (BROADWAY′S LAUGH WHORE, SEX AND THE CITY), Alfonso Ribeiro (FRESH PRINCE OF BEL AIR, ALL OF US) and Carol Leifer select the winner for 2006.

MTV Announces THE Hills - Spin-off Of LAGUNA BEACH

LAGUNA BEACH′S Lauren (LC) Heads for LA to Pursue Fashion and Life After Laguna in New MTV Series THE HILLS Premiering Wednesday, May 31st at 10:00PM (ET/PT)

New Series Tells the Story of Lauren and Her Three New Friends - Heidi, Audrina and Whitney - As They Pursue Their Dreams in the One City Where Anything Can Happen ...

MTV announced that it will premiere THE HILLS, the long awaited spin-off of LAGUNA BEACH, starring Lauren Conrad, on Wednesday, May 31st at 10:00PM (ET/PT). THE HILLS picks up where LAGUNA BEACH left off with Lauren moving to Los Angeles to attend fashion school with the hopes of a career in the fashion industry. Having already found a great apartment, a new friend to share it with and a killer internship at Teen Vogue, Lauren will have to balance it all and make it happen in the one city they say dreams come true.

"THE HILLS is to LAGUNA BEACH what MELROSE PLACE was to BEVERLY HILLS 90210," says Tony DiSanto, Executive Producer, THE HILLS. "Audiences loved Lauren in Laguna, and we are thrilled to be able to continue showing her story as she embarks on the next phase of her adult life juggling work, school and relationships in Los Angeles."

THE HILLS also tells the story of Lauren′s three new friends -- Heidi, Audrina and Whitney as all three girls chase different dreams in the same city. Lauren′s roommate, Heidi has set her sights on a job with LA′s premiere party promoter, Brent Bolthouse. Heidi′s first priority is LA′s social scene, and she sets her schedule around her nightlife. Audrina lives in the same complex as Lauren and Heidi. Besides working as a receptionist at one of LA′s top photography studios, Audrina is also an aspiring model/actress and a bona fide Hollywood "serial-dater." Finally, there is Whitney, a student at USC and a fellow intern of Lauren′s at Teen Vogue. Whitney and Lauren have become fast friends; however, Whitney′s internship at Teen Vogue takes top priority in her life.

In addition to introducing new friends in LA, THE HILLS features the girls′ love interests, which causes added drama, especially when Lauren′s old flame comes into the picture.

Fans will be able to experience exclusive content with Lauren and the rest of the cast from THE HILLS on MTV.com and broadband network, MTV Overdrive beginning Wednesday, May 3rd.

There they will find the show description, tune-in information and bios and photos of the cast. The latest available trailer of the series will premiere on the site beginning Tuesday, May 9th and a special preview of the series, including an introduction to the cast and a sneak peak of the first episode, will premiere on Saturday, May 27th, during the LAGUNA BEACH Marathon. Also on May 27th, fans can check out never- before-seen interviews with Lauren on MTV Overdrive as she dishes about friends, love and school. Once the show launches on Wednesday, May 31st, viewers will be able to log on to http://www.MTV.com to watch the AFTER SHOW as well as a special section dedicated to Lauren and Heidi′s style picks and a video play list selected by Heidi and more. MTV Mobile will also allow fans to download the cast′s favorite ring-tones, wallpapers featuring photos of the cast members and more. The series AFTER SHOW will also be available on MTV′s VOD.

Wednesday, April 26, 2006

The Return Of KATHY GRIFFIN: MY LIFE ON THE D-LIST On June 6th - Show Heads to Iraq

Kathy Griffin Is Back In All Her D-List Glory With The Second Season Premiere Of KATHY GRIFFIN: MY LIFE ON THE D-LIST, Tuesday, June 6 At 9:00 P.M. ET/PT On Bravo

Talented comic Kathy Griffin may be a perpetual D-Lister, but she still gets her props for the anticipated second season return of the hit Bravo series KATHY GRIFFIN: MY LIFE ON THE D-LIST on Tuesday, June 6 (9:00 - 10:00 p.m. ET/PT). It′s time for an all-new eclectic mix of adventures with Kathy as she revels in her latest D-list drama, which will unfold over six uncontrollable and unscripted one-hour episodes, airing Tuesdays at 9:00 p.m.

"Bravo viewers love Kathy and do appreciate her unapologetic and spirited portrayal of celebrity life," said Frances Berwick, Senior Vice President of Programming and Production, Bravo. "Kathy Griffin′s life on the D-list shows us the comic underbelly of Hollywood, revealing intriguing and hilarious insights into the celebrity food chain."

Kathy continues to go down swinging in all-new episodes that will chronicle the latest of her D-List indignities. This season Kathy auctions herself on eBay, endures hellish moments with her personal trainer and nutritionist, hires a dog trainer in an attempt to get Chance and Pom-Pom under control, attends a gay prom, baby sits for her niece and nephew, takes her parents away for a luxury weekend, goes ice skating with Olympian Johnny Weir, and tours the Red States. But in the end, Kathy just wants the same things any hard working Hollywood celeb crawling to the top wants: the love of throngs of devoted screaming fans.

One of the more exciting moments during the season is when Kathy travels to Iraq to entertain the troops at various camps. She wins soldiers over at every stop with her no-holds-barred humor, and is won over herself by the courageous young men and women who welcome her with open arms. As if suddenly vaulted to the A-List, Kathy is even granted her own gun-toting escorts for the journey. Kathy also encounters hard-working Army dogs in Kuwait, who were noticeably better trained than Pom-Pom.

Kathy navigates life with a self-deprecating sense of humor and the support of a motley crew, including her devoted husband Matt, who returns for the new season as he and Kathy work on their marriage. Through it all, Matt always remains at Kathy′s side and supports her endeavors, even when she's battling some of the more agonizing aspects of life on the D-List. This season will also see the return of some of Griffin′s "peeps" including her assistant, Jessica and her parents John and Maggie Griffin.

NBC Pushes STARTOMORROW - Exclusively Online Music Competition For Top Music Bands

NBC And Tommy Mottola Are Looking For America′s Next Top Internet Band

Winner Of STARTOMORROW To Secure Record Deal With Casablanca Label

NBC′s new, exclusively online music competition, STAR TOMORROW, is conducting a nationwide search for the first Internet superstar band or singing group.

All outgoing and charismatic solo artists, bands, singing groups or duo′s in America who are at least 18 years of age are encouraged to submit auditions to STARTOMORROW producers. The top 100 submissions will be invited to audition in-person.

When the winning group or artist emerges, its members will secure a record deal with the Casablanca label (a division of the Universal Music Group) who will also offer career guidance.

STARTOMORROW is expected to debut this July on NBC.com with a nationwide search that will ultimately narrow the field down to 100 of America′s best groups and bands that have been screened for entry into the competition. Approximately twenty band auditions will be released each week for the first half of the sixteen week series. Viewers will then evaluate them and will have a week to vote on which groups and bands will move on to the next round. The finalists will then compete in the second half of the series. The format will include covers of pop, rock and country favorites and original material, but as the series goes deeper into the competition, the focus will shift more to original songs.

The series will be produced by The Mottola Company, 25/7 Productions and 3 Ball Productions.

Forgoing a dedicated home studio, STARTOMORROW will take its act on the road to reach out to performers on four regional locations across the country (sites will be announced later).

Audition videos, DVDs and other applications can now be sent to StarTomorrow, 10061 Riverside Drive, Toluca Lake, California, 91602 or by logging on to NBC.com for further details.

BET Announces New Reality Shows For Upcoming Year - Includes NFL Rookie-to-Be Vince Young

BET Upfront ′06 Unleashes Flood of New Originals

Reality Shows Led by NFL Rookie-to-Be Vince Young, Rising Music Star Keyshia Cole Top Slate Including Black Gangsters and Sexy Late-Night Series.

BET Networks is opening the floodgates to an impressive slate of new original programs for 2006-2007. The new shows will quench a range of entertainment thirsts. BET unveiled its plans last night in its annual Upfront presentation to a capacity audience of advertisers, media buyers, corporate clients, executives and news media at New York′s Manhattan Center Studios.

"As successful as BET has been in the past 25 years, I knew that an aggressive investment in original programming -- in both senses of the word ′original′ - could turn BET from a beast to a monster," said Reginald Hudlin, BET President of Entertainment, about the BET strategy. "I wanted BET to be like Motown - a soulful beat that the whole world dances to."

Hudlin continued, "BET has always been known for hot music and great award shows, but now we′re moving into primetime with a broader mix of new shows than ever before - news, sports, reality, comedy, movies, specials, mega- specials. It′s a big lineup."

BET′s ′06 Upfront was the first for Debra Lee as the company′s chairman and CEO following the departure earlier this year of BET Founder Robert Johnson. It was also Hudlin′s first since being named BET programming chief nine months ago. To serve notice of this new era in BET leadership and programming, the entire presentation used the theme "Whatever ... Whenever ... Wherever", a rallying anthem symbolic of BET′s new multi-platform approach to serving its viewership.

Future BET programming girds will be flush with new original productions premiering this summer and fall, including:

* NEXT LEVEL: VINCE YOUNG -- Fresh off a national collegiate football championship for the Texas Longhorns, NFL rookie-to-be Vince Young prepares to take his game and life to the next level, and BET will follow his competitive journey.

* STAR TIME: KEYSHIA COLE -- There′s a rising young star who is staking her claim as music′s next diva. BET will go inside the rollercoaster world of Keyshia Cole as her private life and music career ignite.

* AMERICAN GANGSTER -- From the infamous Chambers Brothers of Detroit to the dangerous Nicky Barnes of Harlem, BET will chronicle the country′s most powerful Black gangsters past and present through the eyes of the criminals and their victims.

* HOT GIRLS -- Fashion, style and beauty will abound in this trend-setting show that will touch the minds, bodies and souls of women everywhere.

* BLACK BOOK DIARIES -- Tastes for the "grown-and-sexy" side of life can find romance and passion in this new BET late-night anthology series for adults.

* IRON RING -- The hard-hitting sport of Ultimate Fighting takes on a whole new flavor as these celebrity-managed human gladiators battle it out on BET.

* HOTWYRED -- High-tech toys and multi-media gadgets are part of an all- new BET show guiding viewers to the hottest music downloads, websites, ring tones and video games.

* THE BLACK CARPET -- Coverage of the latest entertainment news and high profile lifestyles gets a fresh look as BET delivers the full range of Black experiences from the Detroit Hair Show to the NBA All-Star Game to the Oakland Players Ball.

* DMX: SOUL OF A MAN -- Hardcore rap impresario DMX lives life on the edge ... at least most of the time. BET will reveal sides to DMX rarely seen, from a caring and concerned father to the friendly neighborhood taxpayer in the tiny town of Carefree, Arizona, where DMX spends much of his down time.

BET′s evening exploded with rhythm and excitement as the Howard University drum line ripped a heart-pounding cadence guided by the high-stepping moves of a "mystery drum major" who turned out to be BET President of Advertising Media Sales, Louis Carr. With the room still buzzing, Carr delivered a clear message for advertisers about BET.

"A year ago when I stood on this same stage and announced that we were targeting an 18-34 demo, many of you thought we had turned our back on teens and (adults) 25-54," said Carr. "But we knew something that most of you didn′t know. The Black adult 18-34 audience is not only the sweet spot for African Americans but also for the broader population. Whether it′s technology, fashion, music, automotive or language, this demo influences so many things. It′s also the magnet for every other demo."

Celebrity participation added to the new BET programming rollout as University of Texas quarterback Vince Young, rapper LL Cool J and R&B songstress India.Arie took part in the launch. The long-awaited search for new hosts for popular music video show 106 & PARK: BET TOP 10 LIVE ended with the introduction of Chicago radio DJ Rocsi and Atlanta-based personality Terrence J. R&B diva Mary J. Blige concluded the evening with a soul-stirring medley of her hit songs. Blige′s finale of her tune "Dance Floor" triggered a forward rush of attendees creating a high-energy dancing frenzy to culminate the BET presentation.

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

CBS Announce Casting Reality Show For AS THE WORLD TURNS

CBS.com Reality Casting Call - Win a 13 week contract on AS THE WORLD TURNS

CBS wants to offer a 13 week contract to join the cast of AS THE WORLD TURNS!

A nationwide search is being conducted for new talent to take part in a reality program that chronicles actors striving for a contract role on the beloved daytime drama AS THE WORLD TURNS.

10 actors selected as finalists, move into a loft in Brooklyn where for two weeks their lives will be recorded. Three actors will qualify to appear on AS THE WORLD TURNS and the winner will be awarded a 13 week contract.

The casting call is open to men and women, ages 18 - 25.

To download the application you can go to:

http://www.cbs.com/daytime/atwt_casting/atwt_casting.pdf

SURVIVOR: PANAMA - EXILE ISLAND Finale Is May 14th - With Live Cast Reunion Show

CBS has announced that SURVIVOR: PANAMA - EXILE ISLAND finale will be shown on Sunday, May 14th.

The hit reality series come to conclusions when the winner of SURVIVOR: PANAMA - EXILE ISLAND is crowned in a special two-hour finale, followed by SURVIVOR: PANAMA -- EXILE ISLAND REUNION, live from the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York, hosted by Jeff Probst.

Sunday, May 14 SURVIVOR: PANAMA - EXILE ISLAND - The (8:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) ultimate survivor will be revealed live from the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York. Jeff Probst hosts (Season finale).

Sunday, May 14 SURVIVOR: PANAMA - EXILE ISLAND REUNION - (10:00-11:00 PM, live ET/ The 16 castaways reunite for the first time since being in delayed PT). Jeff Probst hosts.

Monday, April 24, 2006

THE APPRENTICE 5 Recap Show Available Free On iTunes - Other Episodes Available For Purchase

NBC has quietly made available this seasons THE APPRENTICE 5 for download via Apple iTunes.

Currently there are nine episodes for downloading, including one Free Recap episode which takes a look back a the first eight episodes.

With candidates hailing from the former U.S.S.R., England, and Canada as well as a MENSA member, joining Donald Trump for the fifth season of THE APPRENTICE

Ranging in age from 22 - 38, these candidates boast degrees from Harvard, Columbia, Northwestern and Cornell University. A psychotherapist, appellate attorney and sticker company owner are among Donald Trump′s cast.

To download the Free recap of THE APPRENTICE, SEASON 5 - Clipshow - you can Click Here

Discovery Health Channel Announces SURVIVING SEXTUPLETS AND TWINS - A Family With Eight Young Kids

Like many young married couples, Jon and Kate Gosselin planned on having children, but eight children-all under the age of five-was not exactly part of their plan.

After finding out that Kate suffered from polycystic ovarian syndrome, which prevents normal ovulation, the couple turned to fertility treatment and they quickly became pregnant with twins.

Then, wanting to add one more child to their family, Jon and Kate went through another round of fertility treatments, resulting in sextuplets!

Experience a day in the life of Jon and Kate as they endure the everyday joys and challenges of raising eight young children.

SURVIVING SEXTUPLETS AND TWINS Premieres Sunday, May 14, at 8:00 PM on Discovery Health Channel.

Sunday, April 23, 2006

Hulk And Linda Celebrate 22 Years Of Marriage On HOGAN KNOWS BEST Tonight on VH1

Hulk and Linda are celebrating 22 years of marriage and Linda wants to mark the occasion by taking ballroom dancing lessons.

Hulk reluctantly agrees but walks out on Linda when she jokingly insults his technique. He becomes even more incensed when she continues to go to class without him.

Can the children reconcile the couple before the big anniversary date?

This episode of HOGAN KNOWS BEST premieres tonight at 9:30 pm EST on VH1.

For more information on HOGAN KNOWS BEST go to: http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/hogan_knows_best_2/series.jhtml

On SURREAL LIFE 6 on VH1 Tonight - 2nd Part Of Talk Show Pilot Competition

As the audience loads into their seats, the pressure back stage to win the Talk Show Pilot competition is mounting.

CC is pacing and pleading with the rest of the cast to keep him away from the booze, while Tawny sharpens her sword to do battle with America′s favorite Mom, Florence Henderson.

Special guests Marla Gibbs, from The Jeffersons, Bridget the Midget, a man with a Ten-foot mustache and a 92-year-old body builder give our would-be-hosts a serious workout.

Whoever wins the competition will host a special edition of SURREAL LIFE...so everyone′s gotta host their hearts out!

This episode of SURREAL LIFE premieres tonight at 9:00 pm EST on VH1.

For more information on SURREAL LIFE 6 go to: http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_surreal_life_6/series.jhtml

Saturday, April 22, 2006

Oxygen Announces BREAKING UP WITH SHANNEN DOHERTY - Reality Series On Breaking Up Relationships

Shannen Doherty Hosts and Executive Produces New Half Hour Series for Oxygen Premiering in August

Shannen Doherty is joining Oxygen, home to larger than life personalities and Totally Assertive Females, as star and executive producer of Oxygen′s newest original half hour reality series, BREAKING UP WITH SHANNEN DOHERTY. In this twist on reality relationship shows, Doherty, the ultimate Totally Assertive Female, comes to the rescue of men and women who are unable to muster up the courage to break off their toxic relationships with bad boyfriends/girlfriends, "frenemies," or tyrannical bosses. The original series premieres this August, and is also executively produced by Hallock and Healey Entertainment, producers of Scare Tactics. Oxygen has ordered 13 episodes.

Shannen Doherty joins forces with people in relationship peril who want to get out but just can′t seem to do it on their own. She will listen to the plight of her new "client" and put their mates to the test by creating a fictitious situation - caught by a hidden camera - to determine the true character of the relationship. If the test is failed, Doherty then helps put the relationship out of its misery. In each episode, Doherty will then help mastermind the break-up, and be on the scene to deliver the news and resolve the break-up. The goal at the end is for both parties to agree that it′s all for the best and it′s time to move on.

"Shannen Doherty belongs on Oxygen - she is the ideal addition to our roster of funny, fascinating, and sometimes controversial women," said Debby Beece, Oxygen′s President of Programming and Marketing. "We love that Shannen is honest and willing to tell it like it is, two qualities that are perfectly suited to help good people get out of bad situations."

Breaking Up with Shannen Doherty is the latest addition to a premiere packed summer of new originals on Oxygen. In June, Oxygen premieres The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency, a reality series that chronicles the exploits of AMERICA′S OVER THE TOP MODEL, Janice Dickinson, as she attempts to launch her own modeling agency. In July, Oxygen premieres MO′;NIQUE′S F.A.T. CHANCE; the second annual beauty competition for plus sized women. Joining Breaking Up in August is FIGHT GIRLS, a reality movie that features the country′s best female fighters as they train to compete with the toughest women on earth in a battle for the Muay Thai World Championship.

Friday, April 21, 2006

Next On THE APPRENTICE - Teams Sells Souvenir Programs for Ellis Island

Donald Trump′s children, Ivanka and Donald Jr., watch as the candidates engage in an all-out street war while creating a souvenir program for Ellis Island on NBC′s THE APPRENTICE, (Monday, April 24th, 9-10 p.m. ET/PT). The teams race against the clock to take pictures, write copy, create and finally, sell their souvenir programs. The team with the most revenue from the one-day sales event wins and hits the links with one of the world′s best golfers, Vijay Singh. The losing team heads to the boardroom where another candidate is fired.

Gold Rush tries to break Synergy′s four-week winning streak and struggles amongst themselves while half of Synergy′s team misses the boat and gets left behind. The winning contestants travel to the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, NJ to play golf with PGA TOUR Player Vijay Singh and Trump.

APPRENTICE fans can log on to http://www.NBC.com to vote for their favorite candidate and track their weekly progress. Leading the online voting this week is Tammy (Los Angeles, Ca.) with 30 percent of the votes; close behind is Roxanne (Austin, Tx.) who led last week but now has 21 percent of the votes and in third is Lee (New York) with 14 percent.

"Gold Rush" - Charmaine, Lee, Tarek, Michael

"Synergy" - Allie, Andrea, Roxanne, Sean, Tammy

EL RETO FINAL NISSAN Episode 2 on Sunday - Soccer Reality Series

Episode 2 of Reality Series EL RETO FINAL NISSAN to Air on Fox Sports en Espanol Sunday, April 23 at 11 PM ET/8 PM PT

Pressure Mounts and Ambushes Continue as Host, Known Only as George, Continues to Recruit Players and Teams

Will George Manage to Convince Some of the Biggest Names in the Soccer Game to Suit up for One Final Match?

Second Episode of Fox Sports en Espanol′s five-part reality series EL RETO FINAL NISSAN. In each unscripted episode, players who qualified for the U.S. and Mexico soccer teams nine years ago are ambushed, persuaded to join their former colleagues, and put through intense training sessions and practices to prepare them for one final encounter on May 21, 2006.

Host George continues on his quest to build the best available teams from among former Mexican and U.S. soccer team members of each of the respective 1997 national selections. He ambushes Mexican standout Luis "Zague" Alvez; U.S. defender Marcelo Balboa; Benjamin Galindo; Carlos Hermosillo; and the legendary Jorge Campos, among others.

EL RETO FINAL NISSAN Sunday, April 23 at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT

Fox Sports en Espanol is available through affiliated cable systems and through DIRECTV and Dish Network satellite providers. For more information, visit Fox Sports en Espanol online at fse.tv.

FLAVOR OF LOVE 2 Cast - VH1 Gives Fans A Sneak Peek

A New Batch Of Ladies Are Ready To Savor The Flava!

Meet The Next Possible Mrs. Flav As VH1 Gives Fans A Sneak Peek

At The Second Season Casting Tapes For FLAVOR OF LOVE 2

Can′t wait for FLAVOR OF LOVE 2? Want to meet the next possible New York, Pumkin or Hoopz? Get prepared for season two of VH1′s hit show Flavor of Love by getting an exclusive first look at some of the ladies that may steal Flav′s heart this time around! Flavor of Love fans can go to http://www.ifilm.com/ifilmdetail/2720756 or to VSPOT (http://vspot.vh1.com) to check out never-before-seen videos of just a few potential candidates and rate their favorites. The producers are currently casting and your input on our message boards may help decide who makes it in the second season! Watch and rate the ladies now!

During its first season, Flavor of Love was the highest rated series in VH1 history, with three of its ten episodes making VH1′s top ten rated commercial telecasts of all time. For its 90-minute season finale the series again made VH1 history by becoming the network′s top rated telecast of all times (adults 18-49 rating of 3.51).

VH1′s Flavor of Love is executive produced by Mark Cronin, Cris Abrego and Ben Samek for Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures, who also produce SURREAL LIFE and MY FAIR BRADY. Jeff Olde and Jill Holmes oversee the series for VH1.

***The final casting decision will be made by VH1 and the producers in their sole discretion, and may or may not correspond to the rating of the videos.

CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN Final Now On Saturday Evening

NBC cannot seem to make up their mind on what to do with the ratings stave series CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN.

Yesterday morning, an announcement was made by NBC indicating that the final two episodes of CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN were going to be shown exclusively online at NBC.com. Then late in the afternoon yesterday, NBC decided to change their mind again. The final two episodes will be seen back to back on NBC TV this Saturday evening (April 22nd) starting at 8:00 pm EST.

The following official programming change announcement was released by NBC.

Changes/Additions To The NBC Prime time Schedule For Saturday, April 22 2006 - Saturday, April 22 2006 (All Times Eastern)

Saturday, April 22 2006 - CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN - (8:00PM-9:00PM) - (TV-PG) - "Episode No.4" - THE HEAT IS ON - It′s down to the three celebrity finalists in the exciting primetime cooking competition with the stars. In this final battle of the pans, the celebrities must prepare a new three course meal to determine the ultimate winner. World-renowned chef Wolfgang Puck, Cat Cora (IRON CHEF AMERICA) and Govind Armstrong (executive chef, Table 8, Los Angeles) will work with a celebrity one last time in preparation for this final competition. Tonight, judges Colin Cowie (EVERYDAY ELEGANCE WITH COLIN COWIE) and Gael Greene will vote on matters of taste. Viewers will have the chance to vote for their favorite meal presentation via online and phone. Alan Thicke (GROWING PAINS) hosts the series; Colin Cowie (EVERYDAY ELEGANCE WITH COLIN COWIE) and New York magazine restaurant critic Gael Greene serve as in-studio judges.

CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN - (9:00PM-10:00PM) - (TV-PG) - "Episode No.5" -IF YOU CAN′T STAND THE HEAT--It′s the sizzling conclusion of the celebrity primetime cooking show. Before the winner is announced, world-renowned chef Wolfgang Puck, Cat Cora and Govind Armstrong will face off in an exhibition cooking competition. Following the professional chefs cook-off, the "pot" thickens when the judges and viewers votes are tabulated. And the celeb winners will be announced. Choice unseen moments from the week′s competition will alse be revealed. Alan Thicke hosts the series; Colin Cowie and NEW YORK MAGAZINE restaurant critic Gael Greene serve as in-studio judges.

Thursday, April 20, 2006

NBC Cancels CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN - Final Two Episodes On Web

Because of very dismal ratings, NBC has canceled the final two episodes of CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN. Instead the final two episodes will shown be exclusively online at NBC.com

For the past three nights CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN has finished dead last in ratings for all three nights.

NBC is now touting the final two episode on their website at NBC.com and indicate that online voting will still take place.

Repeats of WILL AND GRACE and MY NAME IS EARL will replace tonight′s CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN time slot. And tomorrow, a repeat of DEAL OR NO DEAL will take the other time slot.

LIL′ KIM: COUNTDOWN TO LOCKDOWN Season Finale Tonight - Heads Off To Jail

Rap Star′s Final Hours of Freedom Documented in BET′s LIL′ KIM: COUNTDOWN TO LOCKDOWN Season Finale, Premiering Tonight at 9:30 P.M. ET/PT

In tonight′s season finale of BET′s hit reality series LIL′ KIM: COUNTDOWN TO LOCKDOWN, it is the day of her surrender and Lil′ Kim′s family, friends and business associates are trying to adjust to what life will be like once the pint-sized diva begins her 366-day jail term in Philadelphia′s Federal Detention Center. Viewers can witness the final chapter in her journey during the episode premiere on Thursday, April 20 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

"Today I′m going away. I′m turning myself in to U.S. Marshalls," says Lil′ Kim in the show′s intro. "It still feels surreal, but I gotta do what I gotta do."

The first order of business on her to-do list is to undergo a major transformation: though rap superstar Lil′ Kim is the one who was convicted for false statements to a Grand Jury about an incident occurring outside a New York City radio station two years ago, Kimberly Jones is the one serving time. That means bye-bye weave, high-glam makeup, fashionista wardrobe and acrylic nails.

Lil′ Kim also ponders what else she′d like to do before lockdown -- like maybe "have sex." Her mother, however, is just trying to cope with the fact that her daughter is going to jail in a matter of hours. She is so stressed that she actually faints when the family minister leads a prayer session with Lil′ Kim and members of her close-knit inner circle.

BET′s cameras captured the emotion as Lil′ Kim and her entourage were transported from her New Jersey mansion to Philly on a tour bus. Initially, Lil′ Kim's legal team believed their client would receive the same kind of ′Camp Cupcake′ location granted to Martha Stewart to fulfill her term of incarceration. But instead of chilling in the West Virginia countryside, Lil′ Kim will be serving hard time at Philly′s Federal Detention Center. Despite this fact, Kim vows to remain strong and "thug it out."

As the bus draws closer to its destination, her entertainment attorney and business manager Londell is busy running interference with the feds who have issued a warrant for the rap diva′s arrest because she is already an hour late. Though he′s not a criminal trial attorney, Londell ruminates on whether "all of this could have been avoided" had he handled her defense.

That′s a common theme among the other passengers on the bus -- particularly with Lil′ Kim′s brother, Chris. He still can′t wrap his head around the how′s and why′s of his sister′s incarceration. Just before stepping off the bus, an emotionally-spent but resolute Lil′ Kim expresses her love for everyone, exhibiting the courage that has awed observers and "camp Kim" insiders alike with a simple statement:

"A cell can only hold my body, not my mind," she says to her supporters. "I love you, and I will see you soon -- sooner than you think."

LIL′ KIM: COUNTDOWN TO LOCKDOWN debuted on BET on March 9. The six-episode series chronicling the rapper′s last 14 days of freedom was produced by BET in collaboration with Edmonds Entertainment and Queen Bee Entertainment. The premiere episode drew a whopping 1.9 million viewers, making Lil′ Kim the most watched original series in BET′s 25-year history. It is also the highest- rated cable original series among black viewers this year.

Lil′ Kim has been incarcerated since September 19.

Hank Williams, Jr To Appear On NASHVILLE STAR - Ratings Continue To Grow

NASHVILLE STAR, the nation′s top-rated country music series, will kick off episode seven with an opening performance by country music superstar Hank Williams, Jr. of his current hit "That′s How They Do It In Dixie," while rock icons Scott Weiland and Duff McKagan of Velvet Revolver sit in as guest judges, it was announced by Libby Hansen, USA Network′s vice president of alternative series & specials. Episode seven will broadcast live on Tuesday, April 25 at 10:00 PM ET on USA Network.

"When we booked the infamous Bocephus a few weeks ago, we laughed about having to implement a five second delay," jokes Hansen. "Add Weiland and McKagan giving unedited advice to our contestants, and it′s enough to make any network executive a little nervous. There is no question it will be an exciting and unpredictable episode!"

Recognized only by a few, Weiland & McKagan have long-standing ties to Nashville′s music scene having written and performed with some of country music′s premiere artists and give credit to Jerry Jeff Walker, Emmy Lou Harris, Merle Haggard and Graham Parsons to having helped shaped their careers.

"I have always been influenced by country artists along my musical journey," explains McKagan. "Lately, I have been fortunate enough to be working with some of the great Nashville writers. I look forward to participating as a guest judge in a musical genre that is so close to my heart."

Award-winning actress Ashley Judd will also make a special appearance to honor her sister and NASHVILLE STAR host Wynonna with a career achievement award recognizing an important career milestone and total album sales.

"Very few artists achieve the level of success that Wynonna has reached," said executive producer H.T. Owens. "Having her sister Ashley on the show to honor her is one of those heart warming moments that people will always remember."

Last Tuesday′s original episode of NASHVILLE STAR saw impressive growth over the previous week, earning 1.3 million in P25-54 and ranking as the #1 show in its 10p time slot. This was the most-watched regular season episode (non premiere/non-finale) of NASHVILLE STAR in almost three years (since the 4/26/03 Season 1 episode). Additionally, season four has seen a 32% increase in viewers who vote either by phone or online totaling 1.2 million votes per episode.

Wednesday, April 19, 2006

THE APRENTICE And Donald Trump Giving Viewers A Chance To Win $10,000 Each Week

Get Rich With Trump - NBC′s THE APPRENTICE Gives Viewers The Chance To Watch And Win $10,000

Viewers of NBC′s THE APPRENTICE will have the chance to roll in the dough with a weekly Grand Prize random drawing of $10,000 by playing the live interactive "Get Rich With Trump" game during each episode (Mondays, 9-10 p.m. ET/PT). Beginning Monday, April 24 and culminating the week before the finale, "Get Rich With Trump" can be played by sending a text message from a cell phone or by logging onto NBC.com/APPRENTICE.

During the broadcast of the show, Donald Trump will invite home viewers to participate in the promotion by stating which candidate they think deserves to be "fired" in the week′s episode. The question will have a number of possible answers depending on the number of candidates left on the show. Each candidate will be assigned a "letter" (i.e. A-G) which viewers can either send as a text message from their cell phone or vote online. Viewers are ultimately in control and depending on how people vote, each time zone could end up with a slightly different version of the show.

All viewers who answer the question - whether correctly or not - will be entered into a Grand Prize random drawing (as determined by the time of entry). One Grand Prize winner will be selected in each of the three time zone entry periods for each episode during the promotion period. The winner will be announced live at the end of the show.

There will be three winners each night, one for each of the three times zones across the continental United States (one winner in Eastern/Central, one in the Mountain time zone, and one in the Pacific time zone).

Viewers playing on NBC.com will be able to play for free, and viewers playing on their cell phones will be charged a fee of 99 cents in addition to their wireless carrier′s standard text messaging rates. The game is open to residents in the continental United States, excluding Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Please log onto NBC.com for complete rules.

ABC Announces Top 12 Semifinalists For AMERICAN INVENTOR

On Thursday, April 13, the top 12 semifinalists were revealed and were given $50,000 each to further develop their products. In the upcoming weeks, we will focus on one of our expert judges to see how they mentor their three semifinalists and guide them through the process of working with product designers, packaging companies, marketing executives and product testing. In an ultimate challenge, the inventors will have their new and improved product tested to see if it delivers, and each judge will face the difficult decision of choosing one of his/her three to move on to the final round, one step closer to winning one million dollars and becoming the next great AMERICAN INVENTOR. AMERICAN INVENTOR, the embodiment of the ultimate American dream from Simon Cowell and the producers of AMERICAN IDOL, airs Thursdays (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

The semifinalists include (listed in groups with their mentor/judge in order of airdate):

Ed Evangelista′s group of inventors includes (airs Thursday, April 20, 9:00-10:01 p.m.):
Mark Martinez, 43, a self-employed handyman from Chino, CA. His invention is the Sackmaster 2000, the one-man, one-scoop sandbag shovel.

Sheryl MacDonald, 41, a former airline service agent from Van Nuys, CA. Her invention is The Un-brella, an umbrella that inverts inward and folds up into its own handle to make it easier to close in windy and wet situations.

Erik Thompson, 40, a factory worker and the owner of a gym from Detroit, MI. His invention is the Receiver′s Training Pole, a detachable vest that football players and other athletes can wear to train and develop proper catching skills.

Mary Lou Quinlan′s group of inventors includes (airs Thursday, April 27, 9:00-10:01 p.m.):

Jerry Wesley, 51, a correctional officer with the California Department of Corrections in San Diego, CA. His invention is the EZ-X Portable Gym, a compact, portable gym system which features collapsible bars and interlocking weights so that the user can do a variety of different weight training exercises with one device.

Darla Davenport-Powell, 48, a wife and mother of three children from Los Angeles, CA. Her invention is Here Comes Niya Doll, a trilingual doll that speaks in English, Spanish and Swahili, teaching children language skills and the importance of ethnic diversity.

Francisco Patino, 19, who was born in Barranquilla, Colombia, currently a student at Queens College in New York who also runs a carpet cleaning business with his uncle. His invention is the Double Traction Bike, a new bike design that features a second seat on the handlebars of the bicycle, so that a second rider can sit up front and help power the bike with his/her own set of pedals.

Peter Jones′ group of inventors includes (airs Thursday, May 4, 8:00-9:01 p.m.): Jodi Pliszka, 39, a healthcare case manager, a wife and mother of a nine-year old daughter from Muskego, WI. Jodi suffers from Alopecia, a medical condition that caused her to lose all of her hair. Her invention is the Headliner, a lightweight disposable liner that is worn underneath wigs, hats or helmets, providing comfort and protection from perspiration and oils.

Ed Hall, 40, a former elementary and high school teacher and coach who lives in Chicago, IL. His invention is the Word Ace, an electronic table-top game for 1-6 players that teaches children spelling and vocabulary skills in a fun, interactive way.

Robert Amore, 46, a youth hockey coach and lives in New York City. His invention is the Tonerbelt, a fitness belt featuring two handles on retractable cords. The belt is worn around the waist, and the user pulls on the cords for resistance training, which provides a cardio workout and builds strength.

Doug Hall′s group of inventors includes (airs Thursday, May 4, 9:00-10:01 p.m.):

Sharon Clemens, 63, a retired sales associate and lives in Huntington Beach, CA. Her invention is the Restroom Door Clip, a small plastic clip that attaches to the top of a restroom stall to hold the door closed when the stall latch is broken.

Joseph and Jennifer Safuto, 47 and 32, who share their Los Angeles, CA home with Joe′s 12 year-old twin daughters. Joe is a performing magician, comedian and singer and Jenny is a makeup artist. Their invention is the Flushpure, a new kind of toilet seat lid that filters out bacteria and other harmful particles that normally escape when you flush the toilet.

Janusz Liberkowski, 52, a mechanical engineer in San Jose, CA. He and his wife are parents to twins. Their older daughter passed away in a car accident seven years ago, which inspired Janusz to create the Spherical Safety Seat, a new kind of infant car seat where the baby sits inside nested spheres, hopefully saving children′s lives in an auto collision.

AMERICAN INVENTOR′s panel of expert judges includes show co-creator Peter Jones, one of the UK′s most successful entrepreneurs, who has created a $500 Million Business empire; Doug Hall, an inventor, bestselling author and radio host, and also the founder and CEO of Eureka! Ranch, an inventing, training and research firm; Ed Evangelista, an executive creative director at the New York headquarters of JWT; and Mary Lou Quinlan, founder and CEO of Just Ask a Woman, one of the premiere women′s marketing companies in the U.S. Matt Gallant (host of Animal Planet′s THE PLANET′S FUNNIEST ANIMALS) hosts.

MTV Announces Nick Lachey In Exclusive One-Hour MTV Special - NICK LACHEY: WHAT′S LEFT OF ME

In Depth & Personal, MTV Cameras Follow Nick Lachey In Exclusive One-Hour MTV Special

In a television exclusive, MTV will present an anticipated look inside the life of Nick Lachey as he prepares to release his Jive Records solo album, WHAT′S LEFT OF ME on May 9th. Premiering Saturday, April 22nd at 12pm ET/PT, the one-hour special, NICK LACHEY: WHAT′S LEFT OF ME, follows Nick as he finishes his album, and emerges from his music into the public spotlight. Following the special at 1pm ET/PT, MTV will exclusively air the world premiere of Nick′s new video for WHAT′S LEFT OF ME, along with an inside look of its production with MAKING THE VIDEO: NICK LACHEY.

"We have a longstanding relationship with Nick, and we are excited to share this important new phase of his life with our audience," said Lois Curren, EVP MTV Series Entertainment and Programming. "Each of these shows provides a powerful glimpse into Nick′s life and new album, as he speaks honestly and from the heart, just weeks away from releasing what promises to be his most revealing musical project to date."

Emotional and insightful, MTV′s NICK LACHEY: WHAT′S LEFT OF ME catches up with Nick on his initial radio promotion tour supporting his album′s first single. From New York to Los Angeles and even to his hometown of Cincinnati, MTV follows Nick as he visits with friends and family, and reveals a raw and emotional album that speaks as a musical journal of his life over the last year. In the special, Nick unveils the track I CAN′T HATE YOU ANYMORE, and for the first time ever on television, performs the album′s closing song, RESOLUTION.

In MAKING THE VIDEO: NICK LACHEY, MTV catches up with Nick as he makes the first video of his new album. Featuring MTV′s own Vanessa Minnillo, Nick shoots the powerful music video for his single, WHAT′S LEFT OF ME. In addition to complete behind the scenes access, and commentary from Nick, "Making The Video" will also debut the exclusive world premiere of the finished video.

Fans will also be able to experience exclusive content with Nick on MTV.com and broadband network, MTV Overdrive. There they will find Nick′s I CAN′T HATE YOU ANYMORE and RESOLUTION exclusive in-studio performances, along with footage from his MAKING THE VIDEO including the final cut for WHAT′S LEFT OF ME. Fans will also be able to use their wireless service to access clips of Nick′s new video and his MAKING THE VIDEO experience. For complete information on MTV′s NICK LACHEY: WHAT′S LEFT OF ME special, and the MAKING THE VIDEO: NICK LACHEY, visit www.MTV.com.

Documentary ABUSE Examines Battered Woman Syndrome And Her Fight To Be Released From Prison

A Woman′s Fight For A Second Chance At Freedom

In 1987, Richard Turner, Jr. was shot six times at point blank range. Eighteen years later, his former girlfriend Susan Greenburg is fighting to be released from prison, on the basis of "battered woman syndrome." A&E IndieFilms presents the World Premiere documentary film chronicling her groundbreaking case, ABUSED, directed by Oscar® nominated filmmaker Chuck Braverman, on A&E Network, Monday, May 1, 2006 at 9PM ET and PT / 8PM CT.

In June 1987, 19-year-old Susan Greenberg was arrested for the murder of her "alleged-live-in boyfriend," Richard Turner Jr. To prevent the possibility of receiving the death penalty, her public defender negotiated a plea bargain. Susan Greenberg pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 25 years to life for first-degree murder.

In 2002, the California legislature passed a new statute declaring that if evidence of "battered woman syndrome" existed, but was not presented during the original trial, a petition for habeas corpus or for a new trial could be submitted. ABUSED follows the new hearing for Susan Greenberg as she recalls evidence of the abuse that drove her to murder. Two pro bono attorneys with no prior experience trying a criminal case, teamed up with a public defender to present Greenberg′s case. During the hearing, shocking facts were revealed including the revelation that she was "sold" to Turner Jr. who repeatedly beat and raped her. His father Richard Turner, Sr. was also murdered by an ex-wife who claimed to have been a battered woman herself.

Included in the cinema verite documentary film are riveting accounts by experts and Turner′s own relatives about the tragic events that lead to the killing. ABUSED raises provocative and timely questions: Is Susan Greenberg a liar or a victim? Does ′battered woman syndrome′ justify murder?

SEVENTEEN Magazine Announces Winner Of Nationwide Model Search - Size 12 Kentucky Girl Wins

Real Girl Wins SEVENTEEN Magazine′s Nationwide Model Search; Size 12 Kentucky Girl Beats Out Thousands for $10,000 Ford Modeling Contract

SEVENTEEN magazine, in partnership with Ford Models, debuts the winner of SEVENTEEN′s Reader Model Contest in the May issue which is on stands now. Winner Chelsea Grider, 16, a size 12 high school junior from Louisville, Kentucky, is featured in a four page fashion editorial. She was chosen from more than 12,000 model hopefuls to win the contest and receive a $10,000 Ford model contract.

"It′s important for our readers to see themselves reflected in SEVENTEEN and Chelsea has that fresh faced look that I know our readers will identify with," said Atoosa Rubenstein, SEVENTEEN magazine editor in chief. "Of course Chelsea is gorgeous, but it was her vibrant personality that closed the deal because it makes her glow both inside and out. We were looking for a brand ambassador -- her personality and confidence are as important as her look. As America′s biggest selling teen magazine - it′s our responsibility to send this message to our young readers."

SEVENTEEN partnered with Ford Models in the fall of 2005 to bring back the legendary Reader Model Contest from years past, but updated it to make sure that beautiful girls of all shapes and sizes were welcome. The application did not include any height or weight restrictions and the girls were asked to include information about themselves, instead of only focusing on their looks.

Editors from SEVENTEEN and representatives from Ford Models narrowed down a pool of more than 12,000 model contest entries to a group of 17. The semi-finalists were posted on SEVENTEEN.com where readers were asked to vote for their favorites.

Five finalists flew to New York City for meetings with SEVENTEEN and Ford and the winner was announced at a breakfast in Times Square. Chelsea was flown to New Orleans the very next day for an on-location shoot where she modeled the spring season′s hottest new looks. Her four page feature can be found in the May issue of SEVENTEEN which is on stands now.

Tuesday, April 18, 2006

CBS Announces Casting Call for THE AMAZING RACE 11

CBS is now accepting applications for THE AMAZING RACE 11

Millions of viewers will watch as Teams, each with a pre-existing relationship, race around the world in THE AMAZING RACE. Never knowing where they′ll go next or what they′ll have to do once there, these Teams and their relationships will be put to the ultimate test as they′ll have to work together to stay ahead of the rest. One by one, Teams will be eliminated, and in the end the first Team to cross the finish line will win a cool million dollars!

To apply for THE AMAZING RACE, you must complete the application form and follow the instructions.

For More details go tohttp://www.cbs.com/primetime/amazing_race_application/.

Verizon Online To Offer SOAPNETIC - Including I WANNA BE A SOAP STAR III

Verizon Online Offers Premiere Access to SOAPNETIC, Feeding the Craving of Passionate Soap Fans

From Mini Vignettes to Insider Coverage: All the Hottest Soap Scoops Only for Verizon Online Consumer Broadband Customers

Verizon Online consumer broadband customers now get exclusive access to SOAPNETIC, a new broadband channel dedicated to soap opera fans. SOAPNETIC, launched last night (April 17) by Disney-ABC Television Group, provides comprehensive coverage of all nine current network TV soap operas; access to content from SOAPnet, the 24-hour all soap network; and original programming.

"Only Verizon offers its broadband customers the chance to expand their enjoyment of soaps with exclusive online entertainment and news programming from SOAPNETIC," said Bill Heilig, executive director, Verizon Broadband Services. "It is a great addition to our broadband content lineup and is yet another example of our focus on bringing customers the entertainment they crave in new and innovative ways."

SOAPNETIC showcases the original lifestyle mini-vignette exclusives MY HOMETOWN and BEYOND SOAPS, as well as the world premiere of the new season of SOAPnet′s ONE MINUTE SOAPS. Additionally, SOAPNETIC offers full-episode online debuts of SOAPnet′s I WANNA BE A SOAP STAR III, insider coverage of the soap world′s hottest events including ABC Daytime′s Super Soap Weekend, and other never-before-seen footage that users won′t find on television.

"Knowing that soap fans are passionate about their soaps and want to connect their favorite shows on every platform they interact with, we are pleased to be able to offer SOAPNETIC to Verizon Online consumer broadband customers alongside our other broadband products including ESPN360, ABC News Now, Disney Connection and Movies.com Max," said Matt Murphy, senior vice president, broadband and interactive sales, Disney and ESPN Networks Affiliate Sales and Marketing.

When accessed at http://broadbandbeat.verizon.net/TV, via Verizon´s DSL or FiOS Internet access service, SOAPNETIC allows viewers to control the soap programming they want to watch. Whether sampling from themed video collections or sorting the video programming based on star, show or genre, soap fans are in control.

Grambling State University Marching Bands And Football In New Series SEASON OF THE TIGER On BET

BET Hits the Gridiron With New Series SEASON OF THE TIGER

Collegiate Reality Series Set at Grambling State University Debuts on April 27 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT

BET is set to premiere the network′s original docu-drama SEASON OF THE TIGER, slated for April 27 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT. BET and DaftFilms created the series around the 225-member award- winning Mighty Tiger Marching Band and championship football team from Grambling State University. In their world, champions are made, not born -- this gripping series highlights the passion, commitments and challenges of the relationships between the students, band members and football team of Grambling State -- and paints a picture of the blood, sweat and tears that go into their daily quest to be great.

While other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) may brag about their football team or their band, none come close to matching the legacy of Grambling, a small HBCU of 4,500 students founded in 1901. The 12- time Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) champion Tigers, once led by legendary Hall of Fame coach Eddie Robinson and later by Super Bowl MVP XXII quarterback Doug Williams, is the winningest football program in HBCU history. And the band is known the world over.

That storied legacy, along with the plethora of issues affecting three musicians and two athletes, are deftly chronicled in this compelling and riveting series. Over the course of six half-hour episodes, SEASON OF THE TIGER reveals what it takes for the students to overcome all the obstacles and hurdles strewn in their respective paths as they strive for excellence on the field and off.

"I think the passion is very important," says James Dubose, one of the show′s executive producers. "And you get a chance to see these kids outside of their normal element in the classroom. They dream about playing for Grambling State football from high school and being a part of this incredible band."

With practices held as early as 4 a.m. and as late as midnight for players and musicians alike, SEASON OF THE TIGER shows why it takes a special kind of person to endure the physical and mental demands made by Doc, the no-nonsense band director -- and Coach Spears, the unyielding and uncompromising football coach overshadowed by the legends who have come before him.

In the first episode, Doc and Spears are preparing their teams for Grambling′s homecoming-the social event of the season. That means extra practice and extra pain. It′s an especially challenging time for the Tigers′ starting quarterback, who is trying to prove he still ′has it′ coming off last year′s season-ending knee injury.

It′s no cakewalk for some of the musicians either. The female master drill sergeant can′t get any respect, one of the best sax players has been kicked out of school, and a talented freshman is growing impatient over having to watch the band′s performance from the sidelines.

But they endure it all because they want to be part of something great. And in doing so, SEASON OF THE TIGER's cast members have successfully divorced themselves from the stereotypical urban youth who adults often complain want to emulate a bling-rich lifestyle, but are seemingly reluctant to put in the hard work required to achieve it.

"Black kids are often criticized for being low achievers or materialistic," notes Reginald Hudlin, BET President of Entertainment. "But in this show, we see them trying to measure up to the exacting standards of two great Black institutions, Grambling State University football team and marching band."

The cast includes:

Shunnie, the female master drill sergeant of the band who continually has to fight for respect. Her goal is to become the first female drum major in HBCU history.

Eva, a homesick freshman and the only girl on the drumline. Her goal in life is to be a rapper and she′s involved with another member of the drumline on the down low.

Mancell, a white sax player in the band who has been kicked out of school and subsequently the band over a possession bust. His life is the band and his dream is to become a band director.

Bruce, the star quarterback from the ′hood with his eyes on an NFL career. But Bruce is coming off a season-ending knee injury, his father is in jail and his home was destroyed in Hurricane Katrina.

Blue, a junior walk-on running back who also has hopes of making the NFL. He′s the team′s practical joker and is also the father of a newborn who lives with his baby′s mama.

During the series, we watch as Shunnie realizes her dream of recording a single; Eva struggles with academic issues; Mancell faces jail time if he can′t come up with the cash to pay his fine; Blue and his family face eviction; and Bruce is forced to seriously confront his weight issues, having gained 30 pounds while on bed rest recuperating from his injury.

None of the characters come from idyllic backgrounds, but that′s exactly what drives them. Like the movies DRUMLINE and FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS, the glory is hard-earned whether it means taking hits on the football field or enduring grueling practice sessions for the band. Come Saturday, the players and the musicians showcase their talents and their passion not only to the local community, but to the world. Despite the hard knocks they′ve faced all week, on game day, they leave it all on the field.

They become somebody.

"They′re both going in for battle every Saturday and they both work hard," says executive producer Jesse Scaccia of Daftfilms, who pitched the project to BET. "Both the band and the football team have times when they′re waking up at four in the morning. Both have times when they stay until midnight. Ask any football player -- they′ll claim right there that the band works just as hard as the football team. There′s dedication on both sides."

Viewers can catch encore telecasts of each week′s episode on Thursdays at 1:30 a.m. (ET/PT), Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. (ET/PT) and Tuesdays at 10 p.m. (ET/PT).

Olympic Gold Medalist Joey Cheek Heads To College In New Reality Series for mtvU

New mtvU Series Tracks Gold Medalist′s Journey from the Olympics to College Enrollment and Beyond

mtvU, MTV′s 24-hour college network, today greenlit the new series, JOEY CHEEK GOES TO COLLEGE (working title). The show will offer a candid look at Joey′s life in the aftermath of winning Olympic gold and as he rallies support for pressing global issues, while also making one of the biggest decisions every college student faces - which school to choose. mtvU cameras and Joey′s unscripted video diaries will document this one-of-a-kind journey, leading up to and following him through this new chapter of his life.

The first season of JOEY CHEEK GOES TO COLLEGE will run for six episodes and premiere on mtvU and the network′s all access broadband channel, mtvU Uber at mtvU.com, this fall. A sneak preview of the new mtvU series will premiere on-air and online May 1st, with Joey fielding questions submitted by college students nationwide.

"Every college student has encountered the stress of applying to and enrolling in college, but how many do it as an Olympic gold medalist leading international humanitarian efforts?" said Stephen Friedman, GM of mtvU. "WeÕre excited to share Joey Cheek′s fascinating story with college students and the world and look forward to debuting the series next semester."

"The humanitarian crisis in Sudan desperately needs the world′s attention and this show will help illuminate the dire situation - as well as how college students can get involved," said Cheek. "I also thought it would be interesting to have more than seven million college students accompany me on this bizarre journey from Torino to the campus quad."

JOEY CHEEK GOES TO COLLEGE will offer viewers a first-person accounting of Joey′s Olympic odyssey, from life in the village to the medal stand, and capture the chaotic whirlwind tour that began the moment he won gold. He′ll travel to Zambia in an effort to encourage HIV/AIDS education and prevention. He′ll set out on a college speaking tour to spread awareness about the genocide taking place in the Darfur region of Sudan and how college students can help stop the killing. He′ll be a keynote speaker at The Rally to Stop Genocide on the Mall in Washington, D.C, taking place April 30th. And while all this is happening, he′ll go through the nerve wracking process of researching, applying to and enrolling in college.

Every episode of the show will premiere on demand on mtvU Uber at mtvU.com, with the broadband channel showcasing additional footage not shown on air. Visitors to mtvU.com will also be able to read Joey′s personal blog, interact with him online and more.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION Heads to Philadelphia For Three Orphaned Grandchildren

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION Provides A Home For Two Extraordinary Grandparents Who Are Raising Their Orphaned Grandchildren

Philadelphia Eagle Jeremiah Trotter and 76′er Chris Webber Bring on Their Game to the Design Team

Plus Singer Vanessa Carlton Performs at a Special Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraising Concert

"Py Family" - Loving and devoted grandparents William and Carole Py of Philadelphia, PA, and three orphaned grandchildren who were left in their care after their parents died, will receive a beautiful and renovated home in a remarkable seven days thanks to EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION, on two back-to-back episodes airing Sunday, April 30 (7:00-8:00 and 8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on ABC.

Having raised four girls of their own and put each through college, 60-year-old "Grandpop" William Py and his 57-year-old wife, "Grandma" Carole, were looking forward to retirement. But life had something else in store for them. In l997 Grandpop and Grandma, a couple who enjoyed spoiling their grandkids but who also liked the idea that they could send the children home to their own parents after fun visits, would have their lives shattered by the first of two tragedies that would befall this closely-knit family. In July of that year, their son-in-law, Josi Rosario, 33, died unexpectedly of a brain aneurysm. Josi left behind his wife, Sharon Py Rosario, a breast cancer survivor, and three young children, William, Samantha and Josi, or "Joey."

Devastated by their loss, Sharon and her children returned home to be with her parents, Grandpop and Grandma, who welcomed them with open, loving arms. Not long after, though, Sharon discovered that her breast cancer was back. Only 14 months after losing her husband, 28-year-old Sharon lost her own life. Her children were suddenly orphans.

Grandpop and Grandma Py were not about to turn their backs on their grandkids. The hard-working couple -- who had often wondered how they would be able to live a financially comfortable life of retirement before the added responsibilities that caring for their orphaned grandkids would bring -- faced the harsh reality that things would be even tougher as they headed into the future.

Complicating matters was the discovery that their house was contaminated by asbestos and lead. Realizing that both can cause severe medical problems, Grandpop and Grandma Py wondered and worried how they might find the money needed to rid their house of these hazards.

In this episode of EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION, the design team will help this loving family have the safe and beautiful home they so richly deserve. And, while we know Philly native Paul DiMeo and the designers can "bring it" on the construction build, can they hold their own against Philadelphia Eagle Jeremiah Trotter and 76′er Chris Webber? Plus Pennsylvania native and singer Vanessa Carlton performs at a special breast cancer awareness fundraising concert.

While the EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION design team, local builder Dewey Companies of Wayne, PA, contractors and hundreds of workers and volunteers are transforming the Py house into a dream home, the Pys will go on vacation in Florida.

The design team for this episode will feature team leader Ty Pennington, Paul DiMeo, Preston Sharp, Paige Hemmis and Daniel Kucan.

THIS JOB′S A TRIP - Test Drive Their Dream Job By Taking A Vacation

The Travel Channel has announced THIS JOB′S A TRIP - A new reality series which spans the country to give common people the opportunity to test drive their dream job by taking a vacation!

Two complete strangers are taken out of their daily grind, delivered to a surprise destination and test their dream job with the help of an expert/mentor in that particular field. From rafting guide to circus performer to dolphin trainer, THIS JOB′S A TRIP allows people, bored and tired of the same old job, to discover if they really want to pursue their dream career.

THIS JOB′S A TRIP premieres Thursday, April 27, 8:00 PM ET on the Travel Channel.

In the premiere episode, Rich, a construction foreman, and Barrett, a flight attendant, are both considering career changes. The pair looks to Mark Zoller, a successful outfitting and guide entrepreneur in Oregon, to mentor them through the intricacies of running a whitewater rafting adventure company. The experience becomes a life-changing adventure for both as they confront their fears and ultimately face their immediate and long-term futures.

Monday, April 17, 2006

VH1 Announces Casting Call For AIR TO THE THRONE Air Guitar Competition

Calling All Air Guitarists: VH1.com Rocks Out With the Launch of Its AIR TO THE THRONE Air Guitar Competition

Winner to Perform on ′VH1 Rock Honors′ Red Carpet in Las Vegas in May

Have you got what it takes to be rock royalty? Starting now VH1.com launches its online search for the top air guitarists in the country, challenging all wanna-be rock icons to its "Air to the Throne" air guitar competition. The champion will win a trip to the "VH1 Rock Honors" event in Las Vegas where he or she will perform on the red carpet and be crowned VH1′s "Air to the Throne". The champ will also win a coveted spot in the official U.S. Air Guitar Championship Finals in New York. Additional prizes include "Gibson New Century Flying V" guitars and "Guitar Hero" video games.

Submission Process:

From April 12 - May 1, air guitarists across the country can submit a video of their best air-guitar interpretation of one of the following four songs: Warrant′s "Cherry Pie," Ted Nugent′s "Cat Scratch Fever," Deep Purple′s "Smoke on the Water," and Queen′s "Guitar Solo." In order to be eligible, participants must use 59 seconds of music from one of the four selected songs listed above. Interested air guitarists can submit their video via VH1.com by going to http://air.vh1.com.

Viewer Voting:

Beginning May 4, select videos and VH1.com editorial content will be showcased on VSPOT, VH1′s broadband channel (http://vspot.vh1.com), where viewers can watch and vote for their favorite air guitarist finalists. The winner will be flown to the "VH1 Rock Honors" event for one final "red carpet" performance at the end of May.

AIR TO THE THRONE is a VH1.com production, in partnership with U.S. Air Guitar. For additional details on the submission process, competition rules, and voting guidelines visit http://air.vh1.com.

CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN Premieres Tonight - Tom Arnold, Big Kenny, and Miss USA Chelsea Cooley Stars

CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN is a exciting new reality show that brings the world of cooking to primetime television and gives stars a chance to live out their dream of cooking with the world′s best chefs.

The series is hosted by television favorite, Alan Thicke (GROWING PAINS). The in-studio judges will be lifestyle expert Colin Cowie (EVERYDAY ELEGANCE WITH COLIN COWIE) and New York Magazine food critic, Gael Greene. Celebrity chefs Wolfgang Puck, Cat Cora (Food Network′s IRON CHEF AMERICA) and Govind Armstrong (executive chef, Table 8, Los Angeles) will pair up with celebrities in this new reality cooking competition over the course of five consecutive weeknights from April 17-21.

EPISODE #1 - Series Premiere

It′s night one of the exciting primetime cooking competition with the stars. World-renowned chef Wolfgang Puck, Cat Cora (IRON CHEF AMERICA) and Govind Armstrong (executive chef, Table 8, Los Angeles) will team up with a celebrity tonight to prepare their own three-course dream meal. After one-on-one coaching and a culinary "boot camp," competition will play out in real time as the stars race against the clock in this adrenaline-filled event. Tonight Tom Arnold, country sensation Big Kenny, and Miss USA Chelsea Cooley will compete to move on to Thursday night′s finals and the ultimate cook-off! Alan Thicke (GROWING PAINS) hosts the series; Colin Cowie (EVERYDAY ELEGANCE WITH COLIN COWIE) and New York magazine restaurant critic Gael Greene serve as in-studio judges.

EPISODE #2

04/18/06: Night Two Of CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN - It′s night two of the exciting primetime cooking competition with the stars. Tonight Patti LaBelle, Ashley Parker Angel (MTV′s THERE AND BACK) and supermodel Gabrielle Reece will compete to move on to Thursday night′s finals and the ultimate cook-off.

EPISODE #3

04/19/06: Night Three Of CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN - ′It's night three of the sizzling primetime cooking competition with the stars. Tonight football star Tony Gonzalez, Alison Sweeney (DAYS OF OUR LIVES) and Cindy Margolis will battle it out in order to move on to Thursday night′s finals and the ultimate cook-off.

Casting Call For Next Season Of SURVIVOR Now In Process

Think you′ve got what it takes to outwit, outplay and outlast all others?

In 2006 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.

Contestants will be selected based upon having the following traits:
Strong-willed
Outgoing
Adventurous
Physically and mentally adept
Adaptable to new environments
Interesting lifestyles, backgrounds and personalities

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

FLAVOR OF LOVE Officially Renewed - Was Number One Series On VH1

Flavor Flav Says ′Yeah Boyeee!′ as VH1 Picks Up A Second Season Of His Highly Rated Series FLAVOR OF LOVE

Season One of FLAVOR OF LOVE Made VH1 History as #1 Rated Series

VH1′s smash hit FLAVOR OF LOVE is coming back for a second season, it was announced today. The network has picked up ten one-hour episodes of the Mindless Entertainment/51 Pictures "celebreality" series. The second season will begin production in Los Angeles next month.

The show is currently searching for those special women who really want to be Flav′s beloved in season two. After Flav and Hoopz (the finalist) realized that their relationship would not work out, Flavor Flav became more determined to find love, leading to a second season of the show that had everyone talking.

"After spending so much time with Flavor Flav on SURREAL LIFE and FLAVOR OF LOVE, we shared his frustration at not having found love," said executive producers Mark Cronin and Cris Abrego. "Thankfully, the success of the first season and Flav′s popularity enables us to have a second chance at finding him the right woman."

During its first season, FLAVOR OF LOVE was the highest rated series in VH1 history, with three of its ten episodes making VH1′s top ten rated commercial telecasts of all time. For its 90-minute season finale, FLAVOR OF LOVE again made VH1 history by becoming the network′s top rated telecast of all times (adults 18-49 rating of 3.51).

VH1′s FLAVOR OF LOVE is executive produced by Mark Cronin, Cris Abrego and Ben Samek for Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures, who also produce SURREAL LIFE and MY FAIR BRADY. Jeff Olde and Jill Holmes oversee the series for VH1.

Sunday, April 16, 2006

Travel Channel New Season of 5 TAKES Includes Australia And The Pacific Rim

Season 2 of 5 TAKES Sets Course for a New Season in Australia and the Pacific Rim

Travel Channel has announced the location and the five travelers who will serve as the Travel Journalists (TJs) for Season 2 of 5 TAKES, the international travel series that lets viewers craft the itinerary. The travelers for 5 TAKES: PACIFIC RIM are: Tony Martin, 26, of Washington D.C.; Tiffany Burnett, 24, of Cathedral City, California; Gabriel Schirm, 24, of Ft. Collins, Colorado; Renee O′Connor, 24, of Brooklyn, New York and Josh Gibson, 26, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The second season of 5 TAKES, which capitalizes on the real-time advantages of internet/television convergence, will begin in Australia before setting off on a journey throughout the Pacific Rim. Each traveler will be equipped with a Mini DV camera and laptop editing facilities to produce independent short daily blogs and weekly vlogs of their experiences for the Travel Channel website http://travelchannel.com. As they journal their individual perspectives, a production crew will film their entire journey for the weekly serie: airing on Travel Channel. In addition to the interaction through the blogs and vlogs, viewers and web visitors will determine two of the twelve cities visited during 5 TAKES: PACIFIC RIM.

"The 5 TAKES franchise is a bold step by the Travel Channel into the popular world of user generated content, and it presents a unique interactive viewing experience," said Pat Younge, EVP & GM, Travel Channel. "Like no other show on cable, 5 TAKES affords viewers the opportunity to interact directly with the participants to set the itinerary for the weekly series. In addition to the interactive elements, the weekly television show is turned around within seven days of the TJs leaving each city, making 5 TAKES a near real-time travel joumal, as well as the most convergent prime time series on a major US cable network."

In a first for Discovery Networks US, Season 2 of 5 TAKES premiered Thursday, March 2 at http://travelchannel.com, with a seven-part web episode roll out featuring the casting process. The TJs will began their blogs and vlogs the week of March 13. Over 8,000 initial applicants led to 600 video submissions. Four of the final travelers were selected following face-to-face casting meetings and one was chosen via an online consumer vote.

Viewers Get Chance To Win GE Kitchen Appliances In CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN

NBC′s CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN Gives Viewers The Chance To Win A GE Dream Kitchen In A Watch And Win Sweepstakes

Viewers of NBC′s CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN will have the chance to win GE Kitchen Appliances by playing the live interactive "Dream Kitchen Giveaway" each night during the week-long series event (Premiere: Monday, April 17, 9-10 p.m. ET, Series Run: April 18-21, 8-9 p.m. ET).

At home viewers will be able to participate in this live interactive contest via their cell phones or by logging onto the CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN website found on NBC.com/cooking. At different times during the show viewers will be prompted on how to participate in the sweepstakes. If playing via cell phone viewers must text message 51515 with the celebrity they think will win the competition. Viewers choosing to log on to NBC.com/cooking, also must enter their celebrity prediction on the website. A winner will randomly be selected from all the entries received. The grand prize winner of the "Dream Kitchen Giveaway" prize package will be revealed live at the end of the show.

Three winners will be chosen each night, one from each of the time zones across the continental United States (one winner in Eastern/Central, one in the Mountain time zone, and one in the Pacific time zone). The "Dream Kitchen Giveaway" prize package includes a GE 30" free-standing gas range, a GE Energy Star 25 cu. ft. CleanSteel side-by-side refrigerator, a GE tall tub built-in dishwasher and a GE Spacemaker 1.4 cu. ft. capacity microwave oven.

Viewers participating on their cell phones will be charged a fee of 99 cents in addition to their wireless carrier′s standard text messaging rates and people playing on NBC.com will be able to play at no charge. The game is open to residents in the continental United States, excluding Hawaii, Alaska and Guam. Please log onto NBC.com for more information and the complete rules.

Hosted by television favorite Alan Thicke, CELEBRITY COOKING SHOWDOWN, is a unique and exciting culinary competition from Reveille in association with Sean "Diddy" Combs´ Bad Boy Entertainment. Each night three celebrity chefs will train side-by-side with three celebrities. After one-on-one coaching and a culinary "boot camp," competition will play out in real time in front of a live studio audience as the stars race against the clock in this adrenaline-filled event to complete their world-class meal. One winning celebrity will be chosen in each of the first three episodes and they will face-off in the finals on Thursday, April 20. After America votes for their favorite celebrity during the finals, the winner will be announced on Friday, April 21.

From Producers Of AMERICAN IDOL - NBC Announces Open Casting Call For New Talent Competition

Simon Cowell & FremantleMedia, the producers from AMERICAN IDOL, team up with NBC in the search for the hottest variety & novelty acts from across the country! Are you talented? Audition at one of our open calls for the chance at being Simon′s next big discovery and a huge cash prize!

Talents of all kinds are invited to try out. Individuals and groups welcome, singers, dancers, animal acts, bizarre novelty acts, magicians, comedians, belly dancers...all ages...the sky′s the limit!! The series is scheduled to premiere this summer on NBC. Don′t miss your opportunity to perform before a panel of celebrity judges on television and to prove to America YOU have what it takes to be the next big star!

Open Call Dates/Locations

Doors scheduled to open 10:00 AM

No early lineups. Anyone found camping overnight will be removed.

Registration will take place from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM You must show up during these times to register and audition. There will be no exceptions.

Monday, April 17
The Westin- Times Square
243 W 42nd St (at 8th Avenue)
Enter through Theatre Entrance
(E-Walk) on 42nd St.
NEW YORK CITY, NY 10036

Wednesday, April 19
Sheraton - LaGuardia East Hotel
135-20 39th Ave.
FLUSHING, NY 11354

Saturday April 22 & Sunday, April 23
America′s Mart
Building 2 - Atlanta Gift Mart
230 Spring Street
ATLANTA, GA 30303

Application and Form Instructions

ALL applicants (including all members of a multi-person act) MUST fill out an Application and Personal Release. Only those acts involving stunts or elements that may be considered dangerous should fill out a Doctor′s Release. All acts with animals MUST fill out the Animal Questionnaire and come with all immunization papers and a certificate of health issued by a licensed veterinarian.

Personal Release
Application
Doctor′s Release
Animal Questionnaire

Production reserves the right to refuse an audition to any individual or act, in its sole discretion.

*If your act contains fire or the throwing of knife/sharp objects, please send in a VHS tape or a DVD. Due to the risk of danger present with such acts, you will not be permitted to perform at the open call. This does not disqualify your act.*

A photo ID is required in order to audition.

Applicants under the age of 18 need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must have parental permission.

Please come to the audition dressed in as much of your costume as possible.

For faster and simpler registration, please print out the application and release forms and have them filled out prior to lining-up.

Candidates must be either a US citizen, legal permanent resident of the US, or possess a current legal visa allowing you to seek employment freely in the US.

Please click here for the full list of eligibility requirements.

If you are unable to attend one of the open auditions, please send your tapes to:

AMERICA′S GOT TALENT
Talent Department
6399 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048

Please download and fill out all required paperwork. Paperwork includes Personal Release and Talent Application. Animal Questionnaire/Physician′s Release should be filled out only if it pertains to your act. Submissions without proper paperwork will not be accepted or viewed.

For any other inquiries please email Americantalent@aol.com or call 323-315-5160

Hulk And Family Get Cast In LITTLE HERCULES IN 3D On HOGAN KNOWS BEST Tonight on VH1

Lights! Camera! Hogans! Through Hulk′s business savvy, the entire Hogan clan gets cast in a movie -- LITTLE HERCULES IN 3D.

Hulk plays the Greek god Zeus. Nick, now interested in an acting career, plays a leading villain. Linda is a sexy secretary and Brooke performs a song at a high school dance.

They′re all in the limelight, but things aren′t perfect on the set.

Brooke attracts attention from an older man and choreographs a risque dance routine. So Hulk needs to spend more time watching over her than learning his own lines.

This episode of HOGAN KNOWS BEST premieres tonight at 9:30 pm EST on VH1.

For more information on HOGAN KNOWS BEST go to: http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/hogan_knows_best_2/series.jhtml

Tonight On SURREAL LIFE 6 on VH1 - The Cast Host Their Own Individual Talk Shows

The Surreal Lifers awake to what they hope will be a laid back day. Alexis, Tawny, and Andrea discuss the finer points of wearing a thong.

The paper reveals that the cast will be putting together their own individual talk shows tonight in front of a live audience.

Florence has agreed to be one of the guests and Tawny lunges at the chance to expose the "real Florence Henderson" on TV to finally repay her for all the perceived insults she feels she taken from Flo.

Sherman retreats to the comfort of being CC′s sidekick until Florence challenges him to step up and show everyone how talented he really is.

Andrea believes she can win this competition because, after all, she hosts 4 shows on the Playboy channel and CC can′t seem to shake the desire to hit the bottle before he hits the stage. This episode of SURREAL LIFE premieres tonight at 9:00 pm EST on VH1.

For more information on SURREAL LIFE 6 go to: http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_surreal_life_6/series.jhtml

Friday, April 14, 2006

Celebrity Judges Announced for LAST COMIC STANDING - To Be Filmed On Queen Mary

Live-in Laughs on the Queen Mary -- and Celebrity Judges Kathy Griffin, Garry Marshall and Tim Meadows -- Add to the Fun As America´s Funniest Comics Compete

America will choose who ultimately wins the title of LAST COMIC STANDING when NBC´s Emmy-nominated series returns for a new season of laughs and surprises on Tuesday, May 30 (8-10 p.m. ET). Following the special two-hour premiere, the series will air in its regular timeslot of 9-10 p.m. ET on Tuesdays.

Anthony Clark ("Yes, Dear") is the host.

The lively laughfest begins with a nationwide talent search for professional and aspiring comedians. Then celebrity judges Kathy Griffin (Bravo´s "Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D List," NBC´s "Suddenly Susan"), Garry Marshall ("Chicken Little," "The Princess Diaries I & II") and Tim Meadows ("The Benchwarmers," NBC´s "Saturday Night Live") will appear on two special "semi-finals" episodes to help choose the top comedians who ultimately make it into the "house." Only this time, the "house" is actually the Queen Mary -- the famous luxury ocean liner docked in Long Beach, CA that will be home to the comedians during the competition.

Outrageous contests, surprise guests and unexpected twists and turns make the competition even livelier as more contestants are eliminated and only the top finalists are left. Then America gets to choose the winner -- voting by phone and online -- and the LAST COMIC STANDING gets an exclusive talent contract with NBC and their own comedy special on Bravo.

Casting Call For Best Church Choir - New Reality Competition Show

Calling all Choirs!!! First-of-its-kind Nationally Televised Competition in Search of America´s Most Exciting Church Choirs

One winning Church choir in each market will be invited to represent their city and compete in the nationally-televised competition this fall, where they will be judged by a panel of experts and the viewing public.

Over $1.3 million in educational scholarships will be awarded to choirs as they advance in the competition, with the winning group receiving $500,000.

Church music groups across the country are encouraged to submit a tape or DVD of three songs by August 18, 2006.

WHERE: Visit http://www.voicesofjoytv.com/ for additional information.

WHY: Voices of Joy is a direct result of the tremendous upsurge in spirituality across America. The country´s appetite for Church music is growing exponentially as it plays a key role in helping people connect with their spirituality and faith. In fact, research shows that U.S. Gospel music sales have increased more than 80% in the last 10 years from $381 million to over $700 million in 2004. And yet despite its growing popularity and importance among American families, a void currently exists for nationally-televised church music entertainment.

WHEN: Deadline for entries: August 18, 2006.

CONTACT: Christine Moravec at cmoravec@peppercom.com or 415-438-9824.

Web site: http://www.voicesofjoytv.com/

OH BABY, NOW WHAT? - New Reality Documentary About Five Close Friends An A Baby

R.J. Cutler´s new reality documentary film about five friends ... and a baby.

Acclaimed filmmaker R.J. Cutler brings his trademark, intimate style to OH BABY, NOW WHAT?, a new reality documentary film about five close friends whose lives are about to rocked by the arrival of a new baby. OH BABY, NOW WHAT? premieres on A&E on Monday, April 24 at 10PM ET and PT / 9PM CT.

OH BABY, NOW WHAT? follows a group of friends in the hip Silver Lake area of Los Angeles whose summer camp-like existence comes to an abrupt end when one of them becomes pregnant. The bewildered parents are Brad and Sara, a twenty-something couple who found out only three months into their passionate and stormy relationship that they were with child. When the others hear the news, they are quick to form opinions about the situation -- and each of their lives is affected in different ways. Touching, dramatic and funny, the film captures these young people´s lives at the precise moment when existence has been interrupted, and everything begins to change.

Via director R. J. Cutler´s cinema verite storytelling and extraordinary access, OH BABY, NOW WHAT? follows each character over three months surrounding the birth of baby Hunter: Brad is a reformed playboy who is still coming to terms with impending fatherhood; Sara, a yoga instructor and model, is an outspoken ice queen that has embraced the role of "earth mother", Sara´s roommate Bonnie is a small town girl who came to LA with big city dreams and is struggling to find her place -- the idea of new baby in the house definitely clashes with her idea of big city living; Brad´s roommate Megan is a childhood friend often accused of being overly attached to Brad; Brad´s friend Paulie is really the glue that holds them togetherÑa wise, lovable teddy bear that is quick to call Brad and Sara out on their mistakes, but knows enough to often hold his tongue.

Each of these friends must examine their own life choices, and each begins to experience the doubt, frustration, exhilaration and terror of stepping into real adult lives. From the most private individual moments to public celebrations, OH BABY, NOW WHAT? has it all: tears, fights, miracles, catastrophes, and many dirty diapers. It´s all about growing up, finding out what comes next, and discovering who you really are.

Colleen Conway is the executive producer for A&E. OH BABY, NOW WHAT? is produced for A&E Network by Actual Reality Pictures. The film is directed and executive produced by R.J. Cutler (The War Room, Black. White.) Co-executive producers are Joke Fincioen and Biagio Messina.

ABOUT R.J. CUTLER (www.arp.tv) R.J. Cutler has garnered many awards and nominations including an Emmy for creating, directing and executive producing American High. Currently, Cutler is the executive producer of Black.White. and 30 Days, two accliamed television series that air on FX. He also directed and produced the upcoming film Shays´ Rebellion: The First American Civil War, which will air on the History Channel as part of their groundbreaking series, Ten Days That Unexpectedly Changed America. In addition, Cutler´s film Oh Baby, Now What will premiere this April on A&E, and his feature documentary Thin will premeire on HBO this coming November. Cutler began his career producing The War Room, the Oscar-nominated feature documentary about Bill Clinton´s 1992 campaign for the presidency. Next, Cutler directed and produced the feature documentary A Perfect Candidate, which followed the notorious Virginia Senate campaign between Oliver North and Charles Robb, and was nominated for both an Independent Spirit Award and an Emmy Award. Cutler´s other work includes the television series Freshman Diaries, The Residents, Military Diaries and Bound for Glory. He also produced the nightly National Public Radio series Heat, which won the 1991 Peabody Award for Excellence in Broadcasting.