Defending champion Roger Federer admitted he was lucky to escape Wednesday with a victory at the Australian Open, edging Gilles Simon 6-2, 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 6-3 in the second round.
Early on, it seemed as if Simon -- one of only three players on the ATP Tour to hold a winning record against Federer, beating him twice -- would send the Swiss star packing out of a Grand Slam before the third round for the first time since the French Open in 2003 -- a total of 31 majors.
"I remained positive ... it paid off. I got lucky. I'm happy I'm still in the tournament," Federer said.
"I wasn't playing poorly in the third and fourth set, but Gilles took it to me. Clearly, he's a great player first of all. Matches against him don't come easily ... hopefully we don't play each other anymore."
Simon said he needed "time to get used to [Federer's] game," which helped him win the third and fourth sets.
"It's going fast, he's moving fast, it's just impressive," Simon said. "There are not too many players able to play to this level."
The tennis was just as good elsewhere at Melbourne Park -- Novak Djokovic and Andy Roddick also advanced.
No. 3 Djokovic beat Ivan Dodig 7-5, 6-7 (10), 6-0, 6-2. Djokovic, who beat Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the 2008 final in Melbourne Park for his only Grand Slam title, is in career-best form.
He appeared comfortable all over the court against Croatia's Dodig, who challenged Djokovic in the first two sets with a powerful serve and strong baseline shots. Djokovic responded with his own baseline winners into back corners on both sides, as well as cross-court volleys on the rare occasion Dodig sliced to draw him to the net.
Djokovic will play his Davis Cup teammate Viktor Troicki after the 29th-seeded player beat Frenchman Nicolas Mahut 6-4, 6-2, 1-6, 6-3.
Roddick, who had 17 aces, saved two set points in the first-set tiebreak, serving to even it at 6-6, then won on his first set point.
The American broke to go up 2-0 in the second set and avoided another service break in the fifth. He said he was finding his range.
"I think when you're confident, the court just makes sense; decisions come easier to you," Roddick said. "A lot of it comes naturally. There's not a whole lot of thought process. You're not forcing a lot. The ball kind of, I guess, reacts the way you want it to.
"So I feel comfortable out there right now."
It was Roddick's third straight win over Kunitsyn but his first on a hard court. The American beat Kunitsyn in the second round at Wimbledon in 2009.
Wimbledon finalist Tomas Berdych needed four match points to beat Philipp Kohlschreiber 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4.
Roddick's U.S. Davis Cup teammate Mardy Fish made a second-round exit, the No. 16 seed losing 1-6, 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 to Tommy Robredo. And ninth-seeded Fernando Verdasco rallied from two sets down to beat Serbia's Janko Tipsarevic 2-6, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (0), 6-0, conceding just one point on his serve in the last set.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
NFL: 'We've Never Done this Before'
If you want to attend Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium but can't get a ticket, the league is giving some fans a chance.
The NFL will sell a $200 ticket to the game, but it comes with a catch. Fans will have to sit on the grass on the East Side of the stadium and watch the game on the huge outside HD TV screens.
"We've never done this before," Brian McCarthy, the NFL's vice president of corporate communications, said Wednesday.
The offer has been extended to Cowboys Club Seat season ticket holders, and must be purchased in blocks of four. Those who purchase the block of tickets receive a free parking pass, four Super Bowl programs and four scarves.
Tickets to get inside the stadium start at $600 and range all the way to $1,900 for the lower level. Ticket brokers' prices are considerably higher.
Capacity for the game is still being determined, McCarthy said. The outside party plaza tickets will count toward the official attendance.
An estimated 93,000 fans will be inside the stadium. The last Super Bowl with more than 100,000 fans was in 1987 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif. The record of 103,985 was set in 1980, also at the Rose Bowl.
When the Cowboys play home games at Cowboys Stadium, they sell standing room only party plaza tickets -- located in each end zone -- on a first-come, first-served basis. Those tickets were counted among the team's official attendance.
Party plaza tickets for the Super Bowl will not have inside access to the stadium because the NFL is erecting temporary bleacher seating in the party pass areas.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones made no secret of his desire to set a Super Bowl record when the stadium opened a year and a half ago, although the issue was out of his hands since the NFL makes all decisions regarding game operations.
Since then, the Cowboys set the NFL record for a regular season game when 105,121 watched the visiting New York Giants play Dallas. A year ago, the NBA All-Star game drew 108,713, the most ever for a basketball game.
The NFL will sell a $200 ticket to the game, but it comes with a catch. Fans will have to sit on the grass on the East Side of the stadium and watch the game on the huge outside HD TV screens.
"We've never done this before," Brian McCarthy, the NFL's vice president of corporate communications, said Wednesday.
The offer has been extended to Cowboys Club Seat season ticket holders, and must be purchased in blocks of four. Those who purchase the block of tickets receive a free parking pass, four Super Bowl programs and four scarves.
Tickets to get inside the stadium start at $600 and range all the way to $1,900 for the lower level. Ticket brokers' prices are considerably higher.
Capacity for the game is still being determined, McCarthy said. The outside party plaza tickets will count toward the official attendance.
An estimated 93,000 fans will be inside the stadium. The last Super Bowl with more than 100,000 fans was in 1987 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif. The record of 103,985 was set in 1980, also at the Rose Bowl.
When the Cowboys play home games at Cowboys Stadium, they sell standing room only party plaza tickets -- located in each end zone -- on a first-come, first-served basis. Those tickets were counted among the team's official attendance.
Party plaza tickets for the Super Bowl will not have inside access to the stadium because the NFL is erecting temporary bleacher seating in the party pass areas.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones made no secret of his desire to set a Super Bowl record when the stadium opened a year and a half ago, although the issue was out of his hands since the NFL makes all decisions regarding game operations.
Since then, the Cowboys set the NFL record for a regular season game when 105,121 watched the visiting New York Giants play Dallas. A year ago, the NBA All-Star game drew 108,713, the most ever for a basketball game.
Santonio Holmes: Troy Polamalu is Best
Troy Polamalu has a huge fan in Jets wide receiver Santonio Holmes.
Holmes, in his first season with New York, gushed Wednesday about the effect his former Pittsburgh Steelers teammate has on games.
"With all due respect, I honestly think Troy Polamalu is probably the greatest player I've ever played with or even seen play in person," Holmes said. "Everybody has their one person they think is the greatest player. In my eyes, I think he's the greatest player I've ever played with."
Holmes will get to see Polamalu up close as an opponent when the Jets (13-5) and Steelers (13-4) play for the AFC championship Sunday night in Pittsburgh. Polamalu sat out the teams' previous meeting last month -- a 22-17 victory for the Jets -- with a right Achilles' tendon injury.
"The things that he did in my four years of being there, and prior to me getting there, was just disrupt a team," Holmes said. "He's jumping over the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball, tackling runners in the backfield, jumping up and intercepting the ball one-handed. He's returning it for touchdowns, doing numerous things."
Polamalu, a contender for NFL Defensive Player of the Year, is recognized as one of the game's best. The safety had seven interceptions in 14 games along with a sack, a forced fumble and 82 tackles.
Holmes was traded to the Jets in the offseason after a sometimes stormy tenure in Pittsburgh. It was highlighted by him being selected MVP of the 2009 Super Bowl after an acrobatic catch to put the Steelers ahead late against Arizona. The speedy wideout knows that for him and the Jets to get to the Super Bowl in Texas, how they deal with Polamalu will be a major factor.
"Just having him keyed in and keeping the ball away from him," Holmes said. "Playing sound football and not turning it over and giving him any opportunities to make those type of plays can definitely keep him from disrupting our team."
Holmes, in his first season with New York, gushed Wednesday about the effect his former Pittsburgh Steelers teammate has on games.
"With all due respect, I honestly think Troy Polamalu is probably the greatest player I've ever played with or even seen play in person," Holmes said. "Everybody has their one person they think is the greatest player. In my eyes, I think he's the greatest player I've ever played with."
Holmes will get to see Polamalu up close as an opponent when the Jets (13-5) and Steelers (13-4) play for the AFC championship Sunday night in Pittsburgh. Polamalu sat out the teams' previous meeting last month -- a 22-17 victory for the Jets -- with a right Achilles' tendon injury.
"The things that he did in my four years of being there, and prior to me getting there, was just disrupt a team," Holmes said. "He's jumping over the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball, tackling runners in the backfield, jumping up and intercepting the ball one-handed. He's returning it for touchdowns, doing numerous things."
Polamalu, a contender for NFL Defensive Player of the Year, is recognized as one of the game's best. The safety had seven interceptions in 14 games along with a sack, a forced fumble and 82 tackles.
Holmes was traded to the Jets in the offseason after a sometimes stormy tenure in Pittsburgh. It was highlighted by him being selected MVP of the 2009 Super Bowl after an acrobatic catch to put the Steelers ahead late against Arizona. The speedy wideout knows that for him and the Jets to get to the Super Bowl in Texas, how they deal with Polamalu will be a major factor.
"Just having him keyed in and keeping the ball away from him," Holmes said. "Playing sound football and not turning it over and giving him any opportunities to make those type of plays can definitely keep him from disrupting our team."
John Calipari Regrets Cursing out Player
Kentucky coach John Calipari has apologized for his profanity-laced tirade toward freshman Terrence Jones.
Calipari apologized on his Twitter and Facebook pages early Wednesday after cameras caught him cursing Jones on Tuesday night during 12th-ranked Kentucky's 68-66 loss.
Calipari says he "got caught up in the emotion of the game," but added that it isn't an excuse.
The talented Jones has raised Calipari's ire lately for what the coach deems selfish play. Jones finished with a team-high 17 points against Alabama, but also committed four turnovers and deviated from the final play as time expired -- taking the final shot that Calipari wanted Doron Lamb to shoot.
The Wildcats (14-4, 2-2) play at South Carolina on Saturday.
Calipari apologized on his Twitter and Facebook pages early Wednesday after cameras caught him cursing Jones on Tuesday night during 12th-ranked Kentucky's 68-66 loss.
Calipari says he "got caught up in the emotion of the game," but added that it isn't an excuse.
The talented Jones has raised Calipari's ire lately for what the coach deems selfish play. Jones finished with a team-high 17 points against Alabama, but also committed four turnovers and deviated from the final play as time expired -- taking the final shot that Calipari wanted Doron Lamb to shoot.
The Wildcats (14-4, 2-2) play at South Carolina on Saturday.
Marcus Camby Needs Knee Surgery
The Portland Trail Blazers say center Marcus Camby will need arthroscopic surgery on his left knee.
Camby hurt his knee in Portland's victory Monday night over the Minnesota Timberwolves. The team says an MRI exam was initially clear, but closer examination revealed a partial meniscus tear.
There is no timetable for Camby's return. His surgery has not yet been scheduled.
The news came as the Blazers prepared to play in Sacramento Wednesday night.
The team has been besieged with injuries this season. All-Star guard Brandon Roy had arthroscopic surgery on both of his knees Monday. His return also was uncertain.
Roy has missed 18 games this season because of soreness in his knees, which he has said is caused by a lack of cartilage. He was averaging 16.6 points in 23 games this season. For his career, the 2007 rookie of the year is averaging 19.9 points and 4.9 assists.
In November, the team announced that center Greg Oden, the No. 1 draft pick in 2007, would miss the season because of microfracture surgery on his left knee. Oden missed his rookie year because of microfracture surgery on his right knee.
Second-year forward Jeff Pendergraph injured his knee in the preseason and required season-ending surgery. And rookie guard Elliot Williams has undergone surgery this season on both knees.
Camby's injury leaves the Blazers thin at center. Joel Przybilla returned early in December from a ruptured patella, but his minutes have been limited.
The Blazers also have second-year forward Dante Cunningham, who started the second half against the Timberwolves.
Camby was averaging 5.9 points, 11.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.87 blocks in 39 games this season, all starts. His absence will be significant not only because of his contribution on the floor, but because of his veteran leadership in the locker room.
The 6-foot-11 forward and center is in his 15th season in the NBA.
Camby hurt his knee in Portland's victory Monday night over the Minnesota Timberwolves. The team says an MRI exam was initially clear, but closer examination revealed a partial meniscus tear.
There is no timetable for Camby's return. His surgery has not yet been scheduled.
The news came as the Blazers prepared to play in Sacramento Wednesday night.
The team has been besieged with injuries this season. All-Star guard Brandon Roy had arthroscopic surgery on both of his knees Monday. His return also was uncertain.
Roy has missed 18 games this season because of soreness in his knees, which he has said is caused by a lack of cartilage. He was averaging 16.6 points in 23 games this season. For his career, the 2007 rookie of the year is averaging 19.9 points and 4.9 assists.
In November, the team announced that center Greg Oden, the No. 1 draft pick in 2007, would miss the season because of microfracture surgery on his left knee. Oden missed his rookie year because of microfracture surgery on his right knee.
Second-year forward Jeff Pendergraph injured his knee in the preseason and required season-ending surgery. And rookie guard Elliot Williams has undergone surgery this season on both knees.
Camby's injury leaves the Blazers thin at center. Joel Przybilla returned early in December from a ruptured patella, but his minutes have been limited.
The Blazers also have second-year forward Dante Cunningham, who started the second half against the Timberwolves.
Camby was averaging 5.9 points, 11.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.87 blocks in 39 games this season, all starts. His absence will be significant not only because of his contribution on the floor, but because of his veteran leadership in the locker room.
The 6-foot-11 forward and center is in his 15th season in the NBA.
Brian Urlacher Supports Lovie Smith
With his team in the NFC Championship Game for the second time in five seasons, Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher believes coach Lovie Smith has earned a contract extension.
"I believe he has done a great job here. He's the reason we've won," Urlacher said Wednesday on "Mike & Mike In The Morning" on ESPN Radio. "I think he's been here seven years and this is our second NFC Championship [Game], and it hasn't been that way around here in a long time. There were a few years where we were 7-9, 8-8 and that was good. People were excited about that because it meant we were getting better.
"Now if we're not in the playoffs or the NFC championship people are disappointed, and that's because of him. That's how he makes people believe around here, and that's what he expects out of us. I believe in him. I don't see why he wouldn't get an extension. He's earned it, and I don't want to play for any other coach."
Smith has one year remaining on his four-year, $22 million deal, an extension he signed less than a month after reaching the Super Bowl in February 2007. In seven seasons leading the Bears, Smith has a 63-49 record in the regular season and three NFC North titles.
The Green Bay Packers stand in the way of another trip to the Super Bowl for Smith's Bears. With his Bears three-point underdogs for Sunday's game at Soldier Field, Urlacher said he wasn't happy with another slight by the oddsmakers.
"You feel disrespected," Urlacher said. "I understand all the oddsmakers and all the experts know what they're talking about because Seattle could have never beaten New Orleans at home [in the wild-card round]. It's crazy. Why would anyone think that? So they all know what they're talking about. We'll just go out and do the best we can and hopefully we come out on top."
The Bears were three-point underdogs when they beat the Packers 20-17 at home on Sept. 27, and 11-point underdogs in the season finale at Green Bay, a 10-3 Chicago loss. Urlacher said the Bears have used the "no respect" rallying cry to their advantage all season.
"You can only use it so many times," Urlacher said. "We've used it all year long because we've been underdogs all year long so I don't know how many times it's going to work. I think at this point in the season it's just whoever plays better is going to win which is the way with any Sunday.
"We've got to be prepared to play. The underdog role has worked for pretty good for us so far. I think we're underdogs again so we'll just go out there and do the best we can."
"I believe he has done a great job here. He's the reason we've won," Urlacher said Wednesday on "Mike & Mike In The Morning" on ESPN Radio. "I think he's been here seven years and this is our second NFC Championship [Game], and it hasn't been that way around here in a long time. There were a few years where we were 7-9, 8-8 and that was good. People were excited about that because it meant we were getting better.
"Now if we're not in the playoffs or the NFC championship people are disappointed, and that's because of him. That's how he makes people believe around here, and that's what he expects out of us. I believe in him. I don't see why he wouldn't get an extension. He's earned it, and I don't want to play for any other coach."
Smith has one year remaining on his four-year, $22 million deal, an extension he signed less than a month after reaching the Super Bowl in February 2007. In seven seasons leading the Bears, Smith has a 63-49 record in the regular season and three NFC North titles.
The Green Bay Packers stand in the way of another trip to the Super Bowl for Smith's Bears. With his Bears three-point underdogs for Sunday's game at Soldier Field, Urlacher said he wasn't happy with another slight by the oddsmakers.
"You feel disrespected," Urlacher said. "I understand all the oddsmakers and all the experts know what they're talking about because Seattle could have never beaten New Orleans at home [in the wild-card round]. It's crazy. Why would anyone think that? So they all know what they're talking about. We'll just go out and do the best we can and hopefully we come out on top."
The Bears were three-point underdogs when they beat the Packers 20-17 at home on Sept. 27, and 11-point underdogs in the season finale at Green Bay, a 10-3 Chicago loss. Urlacher said the Bears have used the "no respect" rallying cry to their advantage all season.
"You can only use it so many times," Urlacher said. "We've used it all year long because we've been underdogs all year long so I don't know how many times it's going to work. I think at this point in the season it's just whoever plays better is going to win which is the way with any Sunday.
"We've got to be prepared to play. The underdog role has worked for pretty good for us so far. I think we're underdogs again so we'll just go out there and do the best we can."
Jason Taylor Out; Brad Smith In
Jason Taylor did not practice on Wednesday due to a concussion but he has been cleared by doctors to play in the AFC Championship Game, according to New York Jets coach Rex Ryan.
Taylor suffered the concussion sometime during the Jets' win over the Patriots and began to feel the effects of the injury sometime Sunday night.
"He's been cleared," Ryan said. "But he has passed the test so we are ready to roll."
The Jets held Taylor out of practice as a precaution.
The Jets face the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday for the AFC title at Heinz Field, a rematch of their Dec. 19 game -- a 22-17 Jets win. It will be another homecoming game for Taylor, who grew up in Pittsburgh.
Brad Smith, the Jets' multipurpose weapon who missed last week because of a groin injury, participated in practice. He practiced last week, too, albeit on a limited basis, but was declared inactive on Sunday.
Smith said after the Patriots game he expected to play against the Steelers, but he seemed to be running somewhat tentatively Wednesday in wide receiver drills. Without Smith, the Jets can't use their Wildcat package. He was replaced as a kickoff returner by Antonio Cromartie, who filled in nicely.
The Jets' practice had a Pittsburgh feel to it. The speakers alongside the field blasted the old Styx standard, "Renegade." That's a traditional favorite at Heinz Field, where the PA system blasts the hard-rocking tune to fire up the defense.
Wide receiver Braylon Edwards, who played in several games in Pittsburgh as a former member of the Cleveland Browns, warned his teammates during last month's game to raise their intensity when that song was blared.
"Usually, they scare a lot of teams with that gimmick," Edwards said after the game.
It didn't bother the Jets. They marched 66 yards, scoring on Mark Sanchez's 7-yard bootleg on fourth down.
"Our renegade drive," Edwards called it.
Taylor suffered the concussion sometime during the Jets' win over the Patriots and began to feel the effects of the injury sometime Sunday night.
"He's been cleared," Ryan said. "But he has passed the test so we are ready to roll."
The Jets held Taylor out of practice as a precaution.
The Jets face the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday for the AFC title at Heinz Field, a rematch of their Dec. 19 game -- a 22-17 Jets win. It will be another homecoming game for Taylor, who grew up in Pittsburgh.
Brad Smith, the Jets' multipurpose weapon who missed last week because of a groin injury, participated in practice. He practiced last week, too, albeit on a limited basis, but was declared inactive on Sunday.
Smith said after the Patriots game he expected to play against the Steelers, but he seemed to be running somewhat tentatively Wednesday in wide receiver drills. Without Smith, the Jets can't use their Wildcat package. He was replaced as a kickoff returner by Antonio Cromartie, who filled in nicely.
The Jets' practice had a Pittsburgh feel to it. The speakers alongside the field blasted the old Styx standard, "Renegade." That's a traditional favorite at Heinz Field, where the PA system blasts the hard-rocking tune to fire up the defense.
Wide receiver Braylon Edwards, who played in several games in Pittsburgh as a former member of the Cleveland Browns, warned his teammates during last month's game to raise their intensity when that song was blared.
"Usually, they scare a lot of teams with that gimmick," Edwards said after the game.
It didn't bother the Jets. They marched 66 yards, scoring on Mark Sanchez's 7-yard bootleg on fourth down.
"Our renegade drive," Edwards called it.
Obama to Super Bowl if Bears Play
President Barack Obama is promising he'll be at the Super Bowl if his beloved hometown Chicago Bears make it in.
It's not clear, though, that his off-the-cuff comment represented a firm commitment -- or just a lighthearted moment in a busy day.
The Bears would win a Super Bowl slot if they beat the Green Bay Packers Sunday.
Obama was asked about his plans Wednesday by reporters being ushered out of his Oval Office meeting with the president of China.
Obama said laughingly: "Oh, if the Bears are in the Super Bowl, we're going."
The Super Bowl is Feb. 6 at the Dallas Cowboys' new stadium in Texas.
It's not clear, though, that his off-the-cuff comment represented a firm commitment -- or just a lighthearted moment in a busy day.
The Bears would win a Super Bowl slot if they beat the Green Bay Packers Sunday.
Obama was asked about his plans Wednesday by reporters being ushered out of his Oval Office meeting with the president of China.
Obama said laughingly: "Oh, if the Bears are in the Super Bowl, we're going."
The Super Bowl is Feb. 6 at the Dallas Cowboys' new stadium in Texas.
Artist Banksy's Real Identity Almost Auctioned for $1 Million
In what smells like a colossal prank, an eBay seller is claiming to have uncovered the U.K. street artist Banksy's identity and is auctioning it off for a hefty sum.
What started as a $3,000 bid has amounted to almost a million dollars for a piece of paper containing Banksy's legal name. The artist/activist has remained largely an underground phenomenon until his film 'Exit Through the Gift Shop' -- "the world's first street art disaster movie" -- which fascinated audiences because of its hoax angle.
Seller jaybuysthings writes in his auction listing (which has since been removed for a second time), "I have uncovered [Banksy's] identity by matching up the prices of his sold pieces to corresponding tax records. I will reveal no more details ... I give you 100% assurance that it is most certainly the full name of the street artist known as 'Banksy.'"
Mashable indicates that jaybuysthings' record with the online broker dates back to 2001 and is "fairly sparse but mostly positive." Banksy's website indicates that he doesn't maintain representation with all the commercial/gallery affiliates selling his work, which leaves a big question mark hanging over the supposed tax records.
The auction was supposed to close Wednesday evening and may reveal that the artist himself is behind all this as some kind of social statement -- not surprising. Several people have claimed to know Banksy's identity throughout the years, but nothing has been officially confirmed.
What started as a $3,000 bid has amounted to almost a million dollars for a piece of paper containing Banksy's legal name. The artist/activist has remained largely an underground phenomenon until his film 'Exit Through the Gift Shop' -- "the world's first street art disaster movie" -- which fascinated audiences because of its hoax angle.
Seller jaybuysthings writes in his auction listing (which has since been removed for a second time), "I have uncovered [Banksy's] identity by matching up the prices of his sold pieces to corresponding tax records. I will reveal no more details ... I give you 100% assurance that it is most certainly the full name of the street artist known as 'Banksy.'"
Mashable indicates that jaybuysthings' record with the online broker dates back to 2001 and is "fairly sparse but mostly positive." Banksy's website indicates that he doesn't maintain representation with all the commercial/gallery affiliates selling his work, which leaves a big question mark hanging over the supposed tax records.
The auction was supposed to close Wednesday evening and may reveal that the artist himself is behind all this as some kind of social statement -- not surprising. Several people have claimed to know Banksy's identity throughout the years, but nothing has been officially confirmed.
James Franco on Oscars: 'I'm Going With the Flow'
Now that the Golden Globes have come and gone, it's time to talk Oscars.
The actor, among other things, James Franco will take the stage at the famous Kodak Theatre on Feb. 27 alongside Anne Hathaway to host the Academy Awards.
So what do the pair have in store for Hollywood's big night?
"There will be some singing and some dancing," Franco told PEOPLE. "We haven't started choreographing that yet or rehearsing that, but there will be some of that."
Though nothing has been set in stone, Franco, who will likely get a best actor nomination for his harrowing role in '127 Hours,' isn't worried.
"I'm just kind of going with the flow," he said, getting cues from a past Oscar host. "Billy Crystal said to wear tennis shoes, or something, but I don't think I'm going to follow that advice."
As for his co-host, Franco couldn't have nicer things to say, although he seems to be counting on her to make sure their hosting gig pulls in rave reviews.
"She is the youngest to ever host the Oscars so I guess that's special in itself. She's a great person -- great personality -- so I'm basically depending on her to pull it off," he said. "I don't think I could ask for a better co-host."
So sweet. The 83rd Academy Awards air Feb. 27 at 8PM EST on ABC.
The actor, among other things, James Franco will take the stage at the famous Kodak Theatre on Feb. 27 alongside Anne Hathaway to host the Academy Awards.
So what do the pair have in store for Hollywood's big night?
"There will be some singing and some dancing," Franco told PEOPLE. "We haven't started choreographing that yet or rehearsing that, but there will be some of that."
Though nothing has been set in stone, Franco, who will likely get a best actor nomination for his harrowing role in '127 Hours,' isn't worried.
"I'm just kind of going with the flow," he said, getting cues from a past Oscar host. "Billy Crystal said to wear tennis shoes, or something, but I don't think I'm going to follow that advice."
As for his co-host, Franco couldn't have nicer things to say, although he seems to be counting on her to make sure their hosting gig pulls in rave reviews.
"She is the youngest to ever host the Oscars so I guess that's special in itself. She's a great person -- great personality -- so I'm basically depending on her to pull it off," he said. "I don't think I could ask for a better co-host."
So sweet. The 83rd Academy Awards air Feb. 27 at 8PM EST on ABC.
Kelly Preston Explains Baby Benjamin's Silent Scientology Birth
Kelly Preston and John Travolta are still celebrating the November birth of their son, Benjamin, and now the proud mom is opening up about how Scientology has influenced both her birthing style and her choices as a parent.
In an interview with 'Today' host Natalie Morales, the actress discusses the "silent birth" technique commonly employed by Scientologists, a practice where "everyone attending the birth should refrain from spoken words as much as possible ... chatty doctors and nurses, shouts to 'PUSH, PUSH' and loud or laughing remarks to 'encourage' are avoided." Preston explains, "Silent birth is basically just no words as much as possible. If you need to moan, if you need to cry out ... of course that's normal. But, it's just bringing them in, in as peaceful and gentle a way as possible."
Preston credits the silent birth technique for the peaceful demeanor of her children, saying, "My kids have always been amazing. Just very calm, very peaceful, happy and I absolutely know it's very much because of that."
Preston and Travolta, who are parents to daughter Ella, 10, as well as baby Benjamin, tragically lost their 16-year-old son, Jett, in early 2009 after he suffered a fatal seizure while the family was vacationing in the Bahamas.
The actress says that the birth of Benjamin has been an integral part of helping the family through their grief, telling Morales, "It's been wonderfully healing. Of course, you know, we still -- it's still every day. But it's been, I think, a really nice gift for a lot of people throughout the world. We've gotten the most beautiful letters. And the most beautiful notes of happiness."
While Benjamin's birth posed potential risks for both mother and baby due to Preston's age, the 48-year-old actress says that her excitement outweighed her concern. "I didn't [consider this risks]. I just considered that it was difficult," she says. "We're just really happy that we're so fortunate."
Travolta echoed his wife's sentiments in an interview with Hello!, telling the magazine, "For us it's been uplifting ... He's given the house a renewed spirit and purpose."
In an interview with 'Today' host Natalie Morales, the actress discusses the "silent birth" technique commonly employed by Scientologists, a practice where "everyone attending the birth should refrain from spoken words as much as possible ... chatty doctors and nurses, shouts to 'PUSH, PUSH' and loud or laughing remarks to 'encourage' are avoided." Preston explains, "Silent birth is basically just no words as much as possible. If you need to moan, if you need to cry out ... of course that's normal. But, it's just bringing them in, in as peaceful and gentle a way as possible."
Preston credits the silent birth technique for the peaceful demeanor of her children, saying, "My kids have always been amazing. Just very calm, very peaceful, happy and I absolutely know it's very much because of that."
Preston and Travolta, who are parents to daughter Ella, 10, as well as baby Benjamin, tragically lost their 16-year-old son, Jett, in early 2009 after he suffered a fatal seizure while the family was vacationing in the Bahamas.
The actress says that the birth of Benjamin has been an integral part of helping the family through their grief, telling Morales, "It's been wonderfully healing. Of course, you know, we still -- it's still every day. But it's been, I think, a really nice gift for a lot of people throughout the world. We've gotten the most beautiful letters. And the most beautiful notes of happiness."
While Benjamin's birth posed potential risks for both mother and baby due to Preston's age, the 48-year-old actress says that her excitement outweighed her concern. "I didn't [consider this risks]. I just considered that it was difficult," she says. "We're just really happy that we're so fortunate."
Travolta echoed his wife's sentiments in an interview with Hello!, telling the magazine, "For us it's been uplifting ... He's given the house a renewed spirit and purpose."
Holly Madison Met New Boyfriend on Twitter
Former 'Girl Next Door' Holly Madison has found new love -- on Twitter! Who knew 140 characters could be the start of something special?
The reality star started talking to new boyfriend Jack Barakat through the social networking site after being introduced by friends, according to E! Online.
"We met through a mutual friend and then somehow somebody retweeted something funny he said on Twitter," she said. "So I started following him and then we started tweeting each other back and forth!"
The flirtation then progressed to direct messages and led to the pair exchanging numbers.
"We were texting for months, and finally when I had my vacation, I was like, 'Do you wanna come out hang out with me?' and he did and we hit it off right away," Madison said.
Her former Playboy Mansion roommate Bridget Marquardt has already given her stamp of approval.
"He's a really nice guy," she told E! "He's really, really sweet, and they were so cute, all snuggly and kissy and lots of PDA."
And it seems Madison isn't the only one from Playboy moving on. Her longtime ex and Playboy founder, Hugh Hefer, got engaged to Crystal Harris during the holidays.
The 'Holly's World' star, who dated Hefner for more than six years before breaking things off in 2008, recently opened up to Life & Style magazine about his speedy relationship.
"I'd like to see Hef settle down," she told the magazine. "I just want it to be with the right person, and I feel like he's making a hasty decision. I'm not sure Crystal is the best thing for him."
The reality star started talking to new boyfriend Jack Barakat through the social networking site after being introduced by friends, according to E! Online.
"We met through a mutual friend and then somehow somebody retweeted something funny he said on Twitter," she said. "So I started following him and then we started tweeting each other back and forth!"
The flirtation then progressed to direct messages and led to the pair exchanging numbers.
"We were texting for months, and finally when I had my vacation, I was like, 'Do you wanna come out hang out with me?' and he did and we hit it off right away," Madison said.
Her former Playboy Mansion roommate Bridget Marquardt has already given her stamp of approval.
"He's a really nice guy," she told E! "He's really, really sweet, and they were so cute, all snuggly and kissy and lots of PDA."
And it seems Madison isn't the only one from Playboy moving on. Her longtime ex and Playboy founder, Hugh Hefer, got engaged to Crystal Harris during the holidays.
The 'Holly's World' star, who dated Hefner for more than six years before breaking things off in 2008, recently opened up to Life & Style magazine about his speedy relationship.
"I'd like to see Hef settle down," she told the magazine. "I just want it to be with the right person, and I feel like he's making a hasty decision. I'm not sure Crystal is the best thing for him."
Tim Gunn Is Heidi Klum's 'Other Husband,' According to Seal
How close are Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum? Really close, if you ask the supermodel's husband, Seal.
"When Seal is on the set he refers to me as Heidi's other husband," Gunn tells Parade.
"And the kids are all adorable. Heidi is a wife and a mother first, and her professional career really comes second, which is not to say that you'd ever notice that, but she really is a family person and cares about her family deeply and dearly. How touching is that? I'm the luckiest man in the world," the 'Project Runway' guru adds of Klum.
Which celebrity does Gunn admire, fashion-wise? "When it comes to people who aren't a kid or who aren't a size two, I think about Helen Mirren, someone whose style I adore and worship."
"[Mirren] knows who she is and she knows what she looks good in, and you can't help but be blown away by her red carpet appearances, as well as her regular day in and day out lifestyle. And I have to say, when she's not on a movie set, Sarah Jessica Parker's personal style is also wonderful," Gunn continues.
He's also a fan of Angelina Jolie and Cate Blanchett.
"Red carpet land is a very different place, and I don't think of it as being the real world. I'm more interested in how people navigate the real world. Angelina Jolie is another of those people and Cate Blanchett, people who seem to have an innate sense of style and it comes from knowing who they are," he explains.
"In fact, I asked Cate on a red carpet once, 'What do you attribute to the fact that you always seem to be so comfortable and confident in your skin and what you're wearing?' And she said, 'I only listen to my own voice. I'm surrounded by stylists, I respect them, I take in what they are saying to me, but in the end, I have to synthesize all of that and ask myself how I want to present myself.' I thought it doesn't get any better than that," Gunn says.
"When Seal is on the set he refers to me as Heidi's other husband," Gunn tells Parade.
"And the kids are all adorable. Heidi is a wife and a mother first, and her professional career really comes second, which is not to say that you'd ever notice that, but she really is a family person and cares about her family deeply and dearly. How touching is that? I'm the luckiest man in the world," the 'Project Runway' guru adds of Klum.
Which celebrity does Gunn admire, fashion-wise? "When it comes to people who aren't a kid or who aren't a size two, I think about Helen Mirren, someone whose style I adore and worship."
"[Mirren] knows who she is and she knows what she looks good in, and you can't help but be blown away by her red carpet appearances, as well as her regular day in and day out lifestyle. And I have to say, when she's not on a movie set, Sarah Jessica Parker's personal style is also wonderful," Gunn continues.
He's also a fan of Angelina Jolie and Cate Blanchett.
"Red carpet land is a very different place, and I don't think of it as being the real world. I'm more interested in how people navigate the real world. Angelina Jolie is another of those people and Cate Blanchett, people who seem to have an innate sense of style and it comes from knowing who they are," he explains.
"In fact, I asked Cate on a red carpet once, 'What do you attribute to the fact that you always seem to be so comfortable and confident in your skin and what you're wearing?' And she said, 'I only listen to my own voice. I'm surrounded by stylists, I respect them, I take in what they are saying to me, but in the end, I have to synthesize all of that and ask myself how I want to present myself.' I thought it doesn't get any better than that," Gunn says.
Melissa Etheridge's New Relationship Has Ex Tammy Lynn Michaels Furious
Melissa Etheridge revealed yesterday that she is dating Linda Wallem, the creator of the TV Show 'Nurse Jackie,' and ex-girlfriend Tammy Lynn Michaels is not happy with the new relationship.
PEOPLE reported that Etheridge and Wallem were best friends for years, and Wallem even served as "Best Man" at Michaels and Etheridge's wedding in 2003.
The two became an item a few months after Etheridge and Michaels split, stepping out together for the Emmys last August. A friend of the couple is quoted saying that the couple are happy and are in a "committed relationship." The couple even share the same birthday, and both turn 50 in May.
But Michaels took to her blog and wrote a long rambling poem where she tore into the new relationship and accused Etheridge of cheating on her long before the couple separated and eventually divorced in April 2010.
In the poem on her blog Michaels says, "i moved out november 23rd 2009 / she said it would help / i was convinced it would / too and i trusted there was / no one else / i didn't know / there was someone moving in / as i was moving out."
She continues, "three weeks later a box of new toys / was delivered and her assistant brought / it to my rental house as a mistake / i opened it / and that's when i felt something was up / i called her / "i have your new d***s on my kitchen counter?"
Michaels also says that she didn't realize their split was final until she listened to Etheridge's new album, "I understood / oh / you don't want to work it out / oh you already have someone in the wings / oh you already have pined for another / oh you are done here."
She also goes on to attack the reported relationship in PEOPLE, "since april of 09? Mmm / one of my little sweet peas told me otherwise much / earlier than that, Pooper magazine / they should have shut the bedroom door."
Etheridge's response to her ex's poem came from her rep and it said, "I do not comment on haikus," UsMagazine.com reports.
Michaels is also the mother to the couples' twins, son Miller and daughter Johnnie Rose, born in 2006. She is currently fighting for custody of the twins, and in addition to requesting full custody, Michaels is also petitioning Etheridge for spousal support.
Michaels claimed, in an earlier poem, Etheridge hasn't supported her and their 4-year-old twins with enough money to eat -- "when i went to get cash / just last week / for the three of us to eat / nothing."
PEOPLE reported that Etheridge and Wallem were best friends for years, and Wallem even served as "Best Man" at Michaels and Etheridge's wedding in 2003.
The two became an item a few months after Etheridge and Michaels split, stepping out together for the Emmys last August. A friend of the couple is quoted saying that the couple are happy and are in a "committed relationship." The couple even share the same birthday, and both turn 50 in May.
But Michaels took to her blog and wrote a long rambling poem where she tore into the new relationship and accused Etheridge of cheating on her long before the couple separated and eventually divorced in April 2010.
In the poem on her blog Michaels says, "i moved out november 23rd 2009 / she said it would help / i was convinced it would / too and i trusted there was / no one else / i didn't know / there was someone moving in / as i was moving out."
She continues, "three weeks later a box of new toys / was delivered and her assistant brought / it to my rental house as a mistake / i opened it / and that's when i felt something was up / i called her / "i have your new d***s on my kitchen counter?"
Michaels also says that she didn't realize their split was final until she listened to Etheridge's new album, "I understood / oh / you don't want to work it out / oh you already have someone in the wings / oh you already have pined for another / oh you are done here."
She also goes on to attack the reported relationship in PEOPLE, "since april of 09? Mmm / one of my little sweet peas told me otherwise much / earlier than that, Pooper magazine / they should have shut the bedroom door."
Etheridge's response to her ex's poem came from her rep and it said, "I do not comment on haikus," UsMagazine.com reports.
Michaels is also the mother to the couples' twins, son Miller and daughter Johnnie Rose, born in 2006. She is currently fighting for custody of the twins, and in addition to requesting full custody, Michaels is also petitioning Etheridge for spousal support.
Michaels claimed, in an earlier poem, Etheridge hasn't supported her and their 4-year-old twins with enough money to eat -- "when i went to get cash / just last week / for the three of us to eat / nothing."
Elton John's 'Tiny Dancer' Isn't About Tony Danza After All
Tony Danza has taken to Funny Or Die to clarify an age-old rumor and frequent mishearing of a classic Elton John tune.
"The song is called 'Hold Me Closer Tiny Dancer,' by Elton John. Not Tony Danza," the 59-year-old actor says in a scene. "I mean, I never even met Elton John, y'know?"
Danza clarifies the myth to a couple convenience store clerks; the three are then shown riding in a car, screaming the lyrics, "Hold me closer, Tony Danza!" See the clip after the jump.
Our friends at AOL TV note a moment in 'Almost Famous' when the cast sings the Elton John song Tony Danza-style. "This misheard lyric was probably missed by the generation that first heard the song," writes Ryan McKee. "However, to a generation that grew up with 'Taxi' and 'Who's The Boss?,' it's impossible not to hear it."
The clip hypes what appears to be an upcoming film, 'Scott & Zander's Crazy Night.' In a second clip, we learn that "Tony Danza never blocks a c***." More pertinent and hilarious Danza Facts, please, Funny Or Die!
"The song is called 'Hold Me Closer Tiny Dancer,' by Elton John. Not Tony Danza," the 59-year-old actor says in a scene. "I mean, I never even met Elton John, y'know?"
Danza clarifies the myth to a couple convenience store clerks; the three are then shown riding in a car, screaming the lyrics, "Hold me closer, Tony Danza!" See the clip after the jump.
Hold Me Closer Tony Danza - watch more funny videos
Our friends at AOL TV note a moment in 'Almost Famous' when the cast sings the Elton John song Tony Danza-style. "This misheard lyric was probably missed by the generation that first heard the song," writes Ryan McKee. "However, to a generation that grew up with 'Taxi' and 'Who's The Boss?,' it's impossible not to hear it."
The clip hypes what appears to be an upcoming film, 'Scott & Zander's Crazy Night.' In a second clip, we learn that "Tony Danza never blocks a c***." More pertinent and hilarious Danza Facts, please, Funny Or Die!
Former 'Full House' Star Jodie Sweetin Is Engaged
Actress Jodie Sweetin, best known for her portrayal of middle sister Stephanie Tanner on 'Full House,' is engaged to boyfriend Morty Coyle.
Coyle, who fathered Sweetin's 5-month-old daughter Beatrix, popped the question in front of family and friends at Sweetin's 29th birthday celebration at Los Angeles' Kibitz Room.
PEOPLE reports that despite the diamond decorations Sweetin's friends had set up around the event space to hint at what was to come, Coyle's proposal with a two-and-a-half-carat oval sapphire and diamond ring came as a shock to the actress.
"It was a complete surprise," says Sweetin. "We are just thrilled and I am in shock still!"
Despite her happiness, Sweetin says that the couple's bond was cemented long before Coyle presented the ring. "We were absolutely committed before this, anyway. We're just so excited."
Although the couple are in no rush to the altar, Sweetin and Coyle are excited to spend their lives together raising Beatrix and Sweetin's 2-year-old daughter, Zoie, from a previous marriage.
The couple, both of whom are vocal gay rights advocates, say that they will plan the timing of their nuptials around the legalization of gay marriage across America.
"We want to wait until there's equality for everybody to get married," says Coyle, adding that he's happy with their choice to become engaged. "Just because we weren't married doesn't mean she doesn't deserve a ring."
Coyle, who fathered Sweetin's 5-month-old daughter Beatrix, popped the question in front of family and friends at Sweetin's 29th birthday celebration at Los Angeles' Kibitz Room.
PEOPLE reports that despite the diamond decorations Sweetin's friends had set up around the event space to hint at what was to come, Coyle's proposal with a two-and-a-half-carat oval sapphire and diamond ring came as a shock to the actress.
"It was a complete surprise," says Sweetin. "We are just thrilled and I am in shock still!"
Despite her happiness, Sweetin says that the couple's bond was cemented long before Coyle presented the ring. "We were absolutely committed before this, anyway. We're just so excited."
Although the couple are in no rush to the altar, Sweetin and Coyle are excited to spend their lives together raising Beatrix and Sweetin's 2-year-old daughter, Zoie, from a previous marriage.
The couple, both of whom are vocal gay rights advocates, say that they will plan the timing of their nuptials around the legalization of gay marriage across America.
"We want to wait until there's equality for everybody to get married," says Coyle, adding that he's happy with their choice to become engaged. "Just because we weren't married doesn't mean she doesn't deserve a ring."
Martin Henderson Wants to Take His Shirt Off, But Then He Can't Have His Beer
Martin Henderson stars as Dr. Ben Keeton in ABC's new medical drama 'Off the Map,' and though he's only now getting the attention in America that he deserves, he's been a star in his native New Zealand since the mid-1990s, when he starred on the TV series 'Shortland Street.'
The amiable Kiwi talked to PopEater about doffing his shirt on camera, learning to surf while filming in Hawaii and what he misses about New Zealand.
You play the hunky doctor.
I don't know. I can't be objective about those things.
From the promo, you seem to take your shirt off a lot.
Well, to be really honest, I've only taken it off once. There have been other times when they've suggested the scene needed it, but I called it off. If the scene requires it then that's a whole other thing. I try not to take it off too much because then I've got to work out all the time. Then I can't have my beer, can't have my flan. A man needs his flan and his panna cotta every now and again.
Do you think actors from Australia and New Zealand are popular in the U.S. because they've got a certain naturalness to them?
I think you're right, and there are certain roles that require that. This role definitely needed something a little rough around the edges. Someone described him as a cowboy doctor, which is kind of embedded in our male psyche.
You film in Oahu.
Yeah, it's nice. I hadn't surfed before going there but, you know, when in Rome ... Alex O'Loughlin from 'Hawaii Five-O' is an old mate of mine, so I actually went on my first surf with him. It was absolutely spectacular. I got completely addicted from that one time.
Your family must be very proud of you.
Yeah. I think they think it's cool. To be honest, I think mum would prefer me to be in a primetime show in New Zealand.
What's so wonderful about New Zealand?
It is absolutely stunning. The food is fantastic, the wine is world class. The people are generous and down to earth. It's just a very lovely spot in the world. It's almost timeless. It's almost like going back to the '50s and '60s when the world was a little simpler and easier. It's a very magical, special part of the world.
Sounds very 'Lords of the Rings'-ish.
It is! It's 'Lord of the Rings' without the hobbits.
Is Peter Jackson the most famous Kiwi in the world?
Russell Crowe is probably more famous.
That's right, he's from New Zealand. Does it bug you when the press always says he's from Australia?
We're used to it. You [Australia] stole Crowded House, you even claim me and I'm so adamant about being a Kiwi. I laugh when I see Australian magazines write, "Our Martin Henderson."
Are you becoming good with medical lingo?
I'm getting the hang of it, but to be honest it's a bit of a challenge. I'm very grateful for our medical advisers. We get a breakdown in our script, if there's a procedure or illness, that has a pronunciation guide and a link where we can read up about it.
Any procedures you could handle on your own now?
Suturing. I could give that a try.
How about open heart surgery?
Yeah, I could replace a valve here or there.
Are you looking for a Kiwi girl?
Hell, I'll take anything. I'm not fussy. Oh well, I am fussy, that might be the problem. No, I wouldn't care where the woman was from, as long as we could communicate.
The amiable Kiwi talked to PopEater about doffing his shirt on camera, learning to surf while filming in Hawaii and what he misses about New Zealand.
You play the hunky doctor.
I don't know. I can't be objective about those things.
From the promo, you seem to take your shirt off a lot.
Well, to be really honest, I've only taken it off once. There have been other times when they've suggested the scene needed it, but I called it off. If the scene requires it then that's a whole other thing. I try not to take it off too much because then I've got to work out all the time. Then I can't have my beer, can't have my flan. A man needs his flan and his panna cotta every now and again.
Do you think actors from Australia and New Zealand are popular in the U.S. because they've got a certain naturalness to them?
I think you're right, and there are certain roles that require that. This role definitely needed something a little rough around the edges. Someone described him as a cowboy doctor, which is kind of embedded in our male psyche.
You film in Oahu.
Yeah, it's nice. I hadn't surfed before going there but, you know, when in Rome ... Alex O'Loughlin from 'Hawaii Five-O' is an old mate of mine, so I actually went on my first surf with him. It was absolutely spectacular. I got completely addicted from that one time.
Your family must be very proud of you.
Yeah. I think they think it's cool. To be honest, I think mum would prefer me to be in a primetime show in New Zealand.
What's so wonderful about New Zealand?
It is absolutely stunning. The food is fantastic, the wine is world class. The people are generous and down to earth. It's just a very lovely spot in the world. It's almost timeless. It's almost like going back to the '50s and '60s when the world was a little simpler and easier. It's a very magical, special part of the world.
Sounds very 'Lords of the Rings'-ish.
It is! It's 'Lord of the Rings' without the hobbits.
Is Peter Jackson the most famous Kiwi in the world?
Russell Crowe is probably more famous.
That's right, he's from New Zealand. Does it bug you when the press always says he's from Australia?
We're used to it. You [Australia] stole Crowded House, you even claim me and I'm so adamant about being a Kiwi. I laugh when I see Australian magazines write, "Our Martin Henderson."
Are you becoming good with medical lingo?
I'm getting the hang of it, but to be honest it's a bit of a challenge. I'm very grateful for our medical advisers. We get a breakdown in our script, if there's a procedure or illness, that has a pronunciation guide and a link where we can read up about it.
Any procedures you could handle on your own now?
Suturing. I could give that a try.
How about open heart surgery?
Yeah, I could replace a valve here or there.
Are you looking for a Kiwi girl?
Hell, I'll take anything. I'm not fussy. Oh well, I am fussy, that might be the problem. No, I wouldn't care where the woman was from, as long as we could communicate.
Report: Christina Aguilera Passes Out at Jeremy Renner's Birthday
Christina Aguilera may be one 'Beautiful' singer, but at a recent party, her behavior was anything but.
According to Us Weekly, the songstress over-imbibed at 'The Hurt Locker' star Jeremy Renner's 40th birthday party and gave him a rather unwelcome surprise.
When Renner, who was hosting a number of celebrity guests as well as family members, went upstairs to his bedroom, he found the 'Burlesque' star taking a load off in his bed.
According to a source, Renner regaled friends at the Golden Globes with the story, saying, "I run up and open the door and I'm like, 'Um, hi. What are you doing?' She just starts slurring. Her boyfriend was rubbing her back. Who comes to someone's birthday party that they don't know and gets in their bed? My parents were there!"
Another source said of the singer's behavior, "She acted like a fool. Her boyfriend was shushing her and telling her to go to sleep," calling Aguilera "a mess."
Renner's rep says of the incident, "[Christina] was enjoying herself, but she wasn't in his bed."
According to Us Weekly, the songstress over-imbibed at 'The Hurt Locker' star Jeremy Renner's 40th birthday party and gave him a rather unwelcome surprise.
When Renner, who was hosting a number of celebrity guests as well as family members, went upstairs to his bedroom, he found the 'Burlesque' star taking a load off in his bed.
According to a source, Renner regaled friends at the Golden Globes with the story, saying, "I run up and open the door and I'm like, 'Um, hi. What are you doing?' She just starts slurring. Her boyfriend was rubbing her back. Who comes to someone's birthday party that they don't know and gets in their bed? My parents were there!"
Another source said of the singer's behavior, "She acted like a fool. Her boyfriend was shushing her and telling her to go to sleep," calling Aguilera "a mess."
Renner's rep says of the incident, "[Christina] was enjoying herself, but she wasn't in his bed."
Watch What Happens: Live Season 3 Episode 31
Airing Details: 11:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: BRAVO Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 31
Episode Name: EPISODE: 31
Channel: BRAVO Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 31
Episode Name: EPISODE: 31
Outsourced Season 1 Episode 12 A Sitar Is Born
Preview of 'Outsourced':
Todd thinks he's discovered a major new singing star working at the call center.
Airing Details: 10:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 12
Episode Name: A Sitar Is Born
Todd thinks he's discovered a major new singing star working at the call center.
Airing Details: 10:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 12
Episode Name: A Sitar Is Born
'American Idol' Tell-All Author Says Show Must End Its Megastar Drought
There may be no other TV series that has been written about as much as 'American Idol.' The show that helped pave the way for reality television to become a lasting genre has changed the entire TV landscape and the very nature of stardom. What began as a copycat of a British singing talent competition called 'Popstars' became a pop culture phenomenon unlike nothing that had been seen before.
But since we've turned into an 'Idol'-saturated society, what more is there to say about the Fox hit? Aside from reporting on the progress of each season's contestants, the periodic scandals, the judge shuffle and the day-to-day dramas, there isn't really enough for another entire book about it, is there?
Apparently there is. And its author, Los Angeles Times 'Idol' writer Richard Rushfield, is even so bold as to call his 'The Untold Story.' Untold, indeed. With all the ink spilled on the reality TV sensation, how could that be possibly true?
"There's so much we see, but there's so much that has been untold -- what really goes on behind the scenes and into the making of it, and how it affects the lives of the people involved," Rushfield tells PopEater. "It's an amazing glimpse of what goes on backstage at 'Idol' and the pressures. How 'Idol' came into being has never been told."
And who better to recount those tales than the show's creator himself, the now-legendary British producer Simon Fuller?
When 'American Idol: The Untold Story' readers first meet Fuller, he has just been dumped by a band he molded into an iconic force in its own right: the Spice Girls. Their decision to cut their manager loose for a calmer lifestyle would wind up being one of the most impactful decisions in modern music industry history.
Fuller's idea, initially called 'Fame Search' and then changed to 'Pop Idol,' was to put together a U.K. talent show that would sweep the country's general population for contestants, turn those ordinary people into stars and then give the audience the final say in who wins. 'Popstars' was a similar concept, minus the element of audience control, and it had become a fast hit among British TV viewers.
But Fuller thought his show "could do this much, much better. I saw certain similarities in what 'Popstars' was to what I wanted to do," he told Rushfield. "What I always intended ... was to make it a real-time experience but just focus it on singing."
What debuted as 'Pop Idol' in the U.K. -- to mediocre reviews -- soon became a mind-boggling success before traveling across the pond to the U.S., landing in the hands of media mogul Rupert Murdoch and being transformed into 'American Idol,' one of the biggest TV crazes ever.
Rushfield says his book marks the first time the now 50-year-old Fuller has shared the details of how 'Idol' was born.
"It was not officially sanctioned [by the makers of 'Idol'], but I got a lot of cooperation from the people involved," says Rushfield. "Simon Fuller agreed to sit down and tell about the creation of the show for the first time."
Among other behind-the-scenes tidbits in 'The Untold Story,' Rushfield includes anecdotes about a woman who forms a church using only 'Idol' participants, one pop star hopeful's vicious run-in with nasty (and now departed) judge Simon Cowell and a love triangle among three of the earliest contestants.
"There are a lot of little moments that people will love -- just a lot of stories about what life is like living under the tension and the microscope for this group of kids thrown together and riding this whirlwind," he says.
The book also documents the revolutionary changes 'Idol' brought to the music industry and the creation of pop stars including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry and Fantasia Barrino.
"It opened up the whole process of how you become a star," Rushfield says. "That was Simon Fuller's intention from the start. He very consciously started this as a reaction to what he saw as a closed system in the record labels, with the music industry being more concerned with being cool and edgy than creating acts that would speak to a huge public."
Thanks to 'Idol,' says Rushfield, there is now a parallel but separate path to stardom outside the music industry in which "the record labels don't dictate who the stars are. You go to the audience about who they want as stars."
It's a shift that has faced its share of criticism from those who believe 'Idol' has lowered the bar, churning out a less talented pool of pop singers than the industry was doing before it came along. Rushfield dismisses that gripe, just as he dismisses similar complaints about how reality shows have dumbed down television.
"I think we have a broader pool of stars," he tells PopEater. "While it might have been more polished before, it was more of a narrow spectrum. People who say that have contempt for the audience and contempt for who the audience chooses ... and they vastly overrate the quality of who we were seeing on television and in the music industry."
As one of the earliest reality shows to strike it big, 'Idol' has been credited with turning traditional programming on its head.
"There's a reason television was so vulnerable: It had become formulaic and stale, and people were ready to tune out those programs," Rushfield says. "'Idol' has done a lot to reinvent television from a pretty desperate place before that."
Still, nearly a decade after its U.S. debut, 'Idol' is facing a critical turning point, with some even sounding the show's death knell. The departure of two of its three original judges -- first Paula Abdul, then Simon Cowell -- the failed Ellen DeGeneres and Kara DioGuardi stints on the panel and the replacement judge choices of Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez have put many on edge about 'Idol's' future.
So has the fact that it's been awhile since the show delivered on its fundamental vow to create a pop star from scratch season after season.
"The jury is out" on the show's future, Rushfield says. "Even bigger than the change in the judges -- which is in itself huge -- 'Idol' has not in several years produced a megastar, not since Chris Daughtry. ... That has to happen again. That's what they promised."
But 'American Idol' has proven resilient so far and has continued to capture the public's imagination because of what it represents.
"They go out into America, find people where they live, bring them to Hollywood and confer upon the winner this huge prize, which is genuine stardom," Rushfield says. "It's the closest thing to the story of the American dream that we have in entertainment."
'American Idol: The Untold Story' is in bookstores and available on Amazon right now.
But since we've turned into an 'Idol'-saturated society, what more is there to say about the Fox hit? Aside from reporting on the progress of each season's contestants, the periodic scandals, the judge shuffle and the day-to-day dramas, there isn't really enough for another entire book about it, is there?
Apparently there is. And its author, Los Angeles Times 'Idol' writer Richard Rushfield, is even so bold as to call his 'The Untold Story.' Untold, indeed. With all the ink spilled on the reality TV sensation, how could that be possibly true?
"There's so much we see, but there's so much that has been untold -- what really goes on behind the scenes and into the making of it, and how it affects the lives of the people involved," Rushfield tells PopEater. "It's an amazing glimpse of what goes on backstage at 'Idol' and the pressures. How 'Idol' came into being has never been told."
And who better to recount those tales than the show's creator himself, the now-legendary British producer Simon Fuller?
When 'American Idol: The Untold Story' readers first meet Fuller, he has just been dumped by a band he molded into an iconic force in its own right: the Spice Girls. Their decision to cut their manager loose for a calmer lifestyle would wind up being one of the most impactful decisions in modern music industry history.
Fuller's idea, initially called 'Fame Search' and then changed to 'Pop Idol,' was to put together a U.K. talent show that would sweep the country's general population for contestants, turn those ordinary people into stars and then give the audience the final say in who wins. 'Popstars' was a similar concept, minus the element of audience control, and it had become a fast hit among British TV viewers.
But Fuller thought his show "could do this much, much better. I saw certain similarities in what 'Popstars' was to what I wanted to do," he told Rushfield. "What I always intended ... was to make it a real-time experience but just focus it on singing."
What debuted as 'Pop Idol' in the U.K. -- to mediocre reviews -- soon became a mind-boggling success before traveling across the pond to the U.S., landing in the hands of media mogul Rupert Murdoch and being transformed into 'American Idol,' one of the biggest TV crazes ever.
Rushfield says his book marks the first time the now 50-year-old Fuller has shared the details of how 'Idol' was born.
"It was not officially sanctioned [by the makers of 'Idol'], but I got a lot of cooperation from the people involved," says Rushfield. "Simon Fuller agreed to sit down and tell about the creation of the show for the first time."
Among other behind-the-scenes tidbits in 'The Untold Story,' Rushfield includes anecdotes about a woman who forms a church using only 'Idol' participants, one pop star hopeful's vicious run-in with nasty (and now departed) judge Simon Cowell and a love triangle among three of the earliest contestants.
"There are a lot of little moments that people will love -- just a lot of stories about what life is like living under the tension and the microscope for this group of kids thrown together and riding this whirlwind," he says.
The book also documents the revolutionary changes 'Idol' brought to the music industry and the creation of pop stars including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry and Fantasia Barrino.
"It opened up the whole process of how you become a star," Rushfield says. "That was Simon Fuller's intention from the start. He very consciously started this as a reaction to what he saw as a closed system in the record labels, with the music industry being more concerned with being cool and edgy than creating acts that would speak to a huge public."
Thanks to 'Idol,' says Rushfield, there is now a parallel but separate path to stardom outside the music industry in which "the record labels don't dictate who the stars are. You go to the audience about who they want as stars."
It's a shift that has faced its share of criticism from those who believe 'Idol' has lowered the bar, churning out a less talented pool of pop singers than the industry was doing before it came along. Rushfield dismisses that gripe, just as he dismisses similar complaints about how reality shows have dumbed down television.
"I think we have a broader pool of stars," he tells PopEater. "While it might have been more polished before, it was more of a narrow spectrum. People who say that have contempt for the audience and contempt for who the audience chooses ... and they vastly overrate the quality of who we were seeing on television and in the music industry."
As one of the earliest reality shows to strike it big, 'Idol' has been credited with turning traditional programming on its head.
"There's a reason television was so vulnerable: It had become formulaic and stale, and people were ready to tune out those programs," Rushfield says. "'Idol' has done a lot to reinvent television from a pretty desperate place before that."
Still, nearly a decade after its U.S. debut, 'Idol' is facing a critical turning point, with some even sounding the show's death knell. The departure of two of its three original judges -- first Paula Abdul, then Simon Cowell -- the failed Ellen DeGeneres and Kara DioGuardi stints on the panel and the replacement judge choices of Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez have put many on edge about 'Idol's' future.
So has the fact that it's been awhile since the show delivered on its fundamental vow to create a pop star from scratch season after season.
"The jury is out" on the show's future, Rushfield says. "Even bigger than the change in the judges -- which is in itself huge -- 'Idol' has not in several years produced a megastar, not since Chris Daughtry. ... That has to happen again. That's what they promised."
But 'American Idol' has proven resilient so far and has continued to capture the public's imagination because of what it represents.
"They go out into America, find people where they live, bring them to Hollywood and confer upon the winner this huge prize, which is genuine stardom," Rushfield says. "It's the closest thing to the story of the American dream that we have in entertainment."
'American Idol: The Untold Story' is in bookstores and available on Amazon right now.
Top 20 Most Shocking Season 3 Episode 7 Worst Days on the Job 3
Preview of 'Top 20 Most Shocking':
The top twenty features a reporter in the line of mortar fire, an airshow pilot who loses a wing mid-flight, and an officer caught in the path of a jackknifing semi.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: TRUTV Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 7
Episode Name: Worst Days on the Job 3
The top twenty features a reporter in the line of mortar fire, an airshow pilot who loses a wing mid-flight, and an officer caught in the path of a jackknifing semi.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: TRUTV Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 7
Episode Name: Worst Days on the Job 3
Nightmare Next Door Season 1 Episode 3 Killer on South 1200 West
Preview of 'Nightmare Next Door':
Karin Strom is discovered strangled to death in her home. When a suspect emerges, investigators don't have enough evidence for a conviction. It will take twenty-six years to ultimately prove their case, and the final outcome surprises everyone.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: ID Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 3
Episode Name: Killer on South 1200 West
Karin Strom is discovered strangled to death in her home. When a suspect emerges, investigators don't have enough evidence for a conviction. It will take twenty-six years to ultimately prove their case, and the final outcome surprises everyone.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: ID Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 3
Episode Name: Killer on South 1200 West
Pete Wentz Is Ready to Take His Family on the Road
After years of constant touring with Fall Out Boy, Pete Wentz has been, as he puts it, in "Dad land for the last year, year and a half." And he's ready to get back out there on tour with new band Black Cards, especially since he can have the best of both worlds.
"The great thing right now is that my family is very mobile and are able to tour with me. And I think that's the only thing that would've been a hurdle. But the fact they're kind of able to go, I want to be back out there," he says of touring alongside wife Ashlee Simpson and their 2-year-old son Bronx in a chat with PopEater. "And it's really cool to be able to see the world and to do it on a record company's dime, so I'd like to kind of do that and I'd like to show my son the world as well."
The former FOB-er and his Black Cards partner Bebe Rexha kicked off 2011 with the online release of the infectious track 'Dominoes,' and the ambitious rocker hopes that's just the opening salvo in a busy year for his new project.
"[We've] been pushing pretty hard for the spring. Gonna finish I think two songs by the end of the week and hopefully one will be the first single if I have any say in it," he says. "And then the spring and hopefully touring full time and getting back out there and into it."
Wentz spoke to PopEater to promote a charity Twitter race he's participating in as a coach of one of four teams. His team and the three others, helmed by Rev. Run Simmons [of Run-DMC fame], New York Yankee Nick Swisher and tennis superstar Serena Williams, respectively, are competing to get to Dallas for the Super Bowl in a race where all of the teams are fueled by tweets. Both Wentz and Simmons plan to have some fun with the competition.
"My management called me and said that Mercedes Benz was having a tweet competition, they called me and said they wanted me to pick my favorite charity and tweet for a good cause," Simmons says. "I'm like, 'That'll be perfect.' The Lower East Side Service Center is who I chose and I'm excited to get in this. I've been already doing a little bit of playing around with Pete Wentz, sent a couple of tweets at each other, posted some jokes, but I'm excited to be a coach."
Wentz, if he wins, has a chance at owning a part of music history. "We started tweeting back and forth and I'm like, 'Well, I'll bet you this pair of Supras,'" Wentz says. "And he's like, 'What about this pair of Adidas that Run-DMC wore?' I'm like, 'Oh, okay, can't really compete with that.'"
[You can follow all of the Twitter activity at #mbtweetrace and enter to compete for a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe here.]
But Wentz is also very excited about his charity, one that he picked in part because of his own experiences of being a father. "My charity is St. Jude's Children Hospital. It's really an important charity to me, especially [since] becoming a dad the past two years of my life now and god forbid my son ever got sick," he says. "It's good people who are doing good things for children and Mercedes already made a donation."
The competition, which begins Feb. 2, is a win-win, especially for the coaches, who get money donated to their favorite charities and get tickets to the Super Bowl for their participation. Not bad. Neither Wentz nor Simmons had any predictions for the game, which Wentz admits might surprise some. "I don't know a whole lot about football, the craziest thing about me," he says. "For the amount that I've been surrounded by football, the last time I really, really, really focused on was the '85 Bears, which is kind of insane to say."
"The great thing right now is that my family is very mobile and are able to tour with me. And I think that's the only thing that would've been a hurdle. But the fact they're kind of able to go, I want to be back out there," he says of touring alongside wife Ashlee Simpson and their 2-year-old son Bronx in a chat with PopEater. "And it's really cool to be able to see the world and to do it on a record company's dime, so I'd like to kind of do that and I'd like to show my son the world as well."
The former FOB-er and his Black Cards partner Bebe Rexha kicked off 2011 with the online release of the infectious track 'Dominoes,' and the ambitious rocker hopes that's just the opening salvo in a busy year for his new project.
"[We've] been pushing pretty hard for the spring. Gonna finish I think two songs by the end of the week and hopefully one will be the first single if I have any say in it," he says. "And then the spring and hopefully touring full time and getting back out there and into it."
Wentz spoke to PopEater to promote a charity Twitter race he's participating in as a coach of one of four teams. His team and the three others, helmed by Rev. Run Simmons [of Run-DMC fame], New York Yankee Nick Swisher and tennis superstar Serena Williams, respectively, are competing to get to Dallas for the Super Bowl in a race where all of the teams are fueled by tweets. Both Wentz and Simmons plan to have some fun with the competition.
"My management called me and said that Mercedes Benz was having a tweet competition, they called me and said they wanted me to pick my favorite charity and tweet for a good cause," Simmons says. "I'm like, 'That'll be perfect.' The Lower East Side Service Center is who I chose and I'm excited to get in this. I've been already doing a little bit of playing around with Pete Wentz, sent a couple of tweets at each other, posted some jokes, but I'm excited to be a coach."
Wentz, if he wins, has a chance at owning a part of music history. "We started tweeting back and forth and I'm like, 'Well, I'll bet you this pair of Supras,'" Wentz says. "And he's like, 'What about this pair of Adidas that Run-DMC wore?' I'm like, 'Oh, okay, can't really compete with that.'"
[You can follow all of the Twitter activity at #mbtweetrace and enter to compete for a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe here.]
But Wentz is also very excited about his charity, one that he picked in part because of his own experiences of being a father. "My charity is St. Jude's Children Hospital. It's really an important charity to me, especially [since] becoming a dad the past two years of my life now and god forbid my son ever got sick," he says. "It's good people who are doing good things for children and Mercedes already made a donation."
The competition, which begins Feb. 2, is a win-win, especially for the coaches, who get money donated to their favorite charities and get tickets to the Super Bowl for their participation. Not bad. Neither Wentz nor Simmons had any predictions for the game, which Wentz admits might surprise some. "I don't know a whole lot about football, the craziest thing about me," he says. "For the amount that I've been surrounded by football, the last time I really, really, really focused on was the '85 Bears, which is kind of insane to say."
The Mentalist Season 3 Episode 12 Bloodhounds
Preview of 'The Mentalist':
When Patrick Jane and the CBI must work with a criminal profiler, Dr. Montague, to solve a double murder, it becomes a competition for Jane to prove that his methods are superior on the next episode of the Mentalist.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: CBS Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 12
Episode Name: Bloodhounds
When Patrick Jane and the CBI must work with a criminal profiler, Dr. Montague, to solve a double murder, it becomes a competition for Jane to prove that his methods are superior on the next episode of the Mentalist.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: CBS Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 12
Episode Name: Bloodhounds
Boy George Returns Stolen Icon to Church
Pop enigma Boy George just handed over a religious artifact -- a prized treasure of his personal collection -- to its rightful owner.
Upon learning that the Christ icon was actually stolen from the Church of Cyprus, George gracefully returned the artifact. It had been in his possession for more than 26 years.
According to a report by NME, the Culture Club singer bought the item from a London art dealer in 1985, unaware of its origins. The icon rightfully belongs to the Church of Cyprus, in the Cypriot village of New Choria-Kythrea, who gave evidence to George proving its ownership.
George told BBC News on Wednesday, "I have always been a friend of Cyprus and have looked after the icon for 26 years. I look forward to seeing the icon on display in Cyprus for the moment and finally to the Church of Saint Charalambos from where it was illegally stolen."
The artifact, along with thousands of other religious items, were stolen from northern Cyprus following the 1974 Turkish invasion.
Upon learning that the Christ icon was actually stolen from the Church of Cyprus, George gracefully returned the artifact. It had been in his possession for more than 26 years.
According to a report by NME, the Culture Club singer bought the item from a London art dealer in 1985, unaware of its origins. The icon rightfully belongs to the Church of Cyprus, in the Cypriot village of New Choria-Kythrea, who gave evidence to George proving its ownership.
George told BBC News on Wednesday, "I have always been a friend of Cyprus and have looked after the icon for 26 years. I look forward to seeing the icon on display in Cyprus for the moment and finally to the Church of Saint Charalambos from where it was illegally stolen."
The artifact, along with thousands of other religious items, were stolen from northern Cyprus following the 1974 Turkish invasion.
Forensic Factor Season 1 Episode 3 Fremont Bomber
Preview of 'Forensic Factor':
Can police and forensic scientists stop the Fremont Bomber before he strikes again?
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: SCIENCE Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 3
Episode Name: Fremont Bomber
Can police and forensic scientists stop the Fremont Bomber before he strikes again?
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: SCIENCE Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 3
Episode Name: Fremont Bomber
Jersey Shore Season 2 Episode 17 Free Snooki
Preview of 'Jersey Shore':
Snooki is released from jail; Deena meets a Ronnie look-alike; and JWoww breaks up with her beau.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: MTV Channel
Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 17
Episode Name: Free Snooki
Snooki is released from jail; Deena meets a Ronnie look-alike; and JWoww breaks up with her beau.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: MTV Channel
Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 17
Episode Name: Free Snooki
Ricky Gervais Comes to 'The Office' in America
Ricky Gervais is headed to 'The Office' right here in the USA! The comedian is the creator and star of the UK's original version of the hit show, but this cameo role will mark his first appearance at the Scranton branch.
AP reports that next Thursday, Jan. 27, Gervais will reprise his role as David Brent, the character he played in the original British version. It was Brent that served as the basis and inspiration for office manager Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell.
Gervais has been clear that he won't be replacing Carell when the actor leaves 'The Office' early this season. He's currently in developments for a Chinese version of the show.
Gervais was most recently in the news for his Golden Globes hosting gig, which offended quite a few stars and big Hollywood players. Still, the funny man said "everyone took it well" before admitting he "probably wouldn't be [hosting the Golden Globes] next year."
AP reports that next Thursday, Jan. 27, Gervais will reprise his role as David Brent, the character he played in the original British version. It was Brent that served as the basis and inspiration for office manager Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell.
Gervais has been clear that he won't be replacing Carell when the actor leaves 'The Office' early this season. He's currently in developments for a Chinese version of the show.
Gervais was most recently in the news for his Golden Globes hosting gig, which offended quite a few stars and big Hollywood players. Still, the funny man said "everyone took it well" before admitting he "probably wouldn't be [hosting the Golden Globes] next year."
Brad Meltzer's Decoded Season 1 Episode 8 The President's Inner Circle
Preview of 'Brad Meltzer's Decoded':
What if the United States was saved by the most covert spy ring in US History, made up almost entirely of ordinary people? They were called: The Culper Spy Ring. This group of code-named spies worked stealthily to steal secrets from the British, giving the Americans a heads up on surprise attacks and enemy troop movements. The Decoded team will uncover if this small circle of shopkeepers, tavern owners and housewives may have played the most important role in defeating the British in the Revolutionary War more than 200 years ago.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: HISTORY Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 8
Episode Name: The President's Inner Circle
What if the United States was saved by the most covert spy ring in US History, made up almost entirely of ordinary people? They were called: The Culper Spy Ring. This group of code-named spies worked stealthily to steal secrets from the British, giving the Americans a heads up on surprise attacks and enemy troop movements. The Decoded team will uncover if this small circle of shopkeepers, tavern owners and housewives may have played the most important role in defeating the British in the Revolutionary War more than 200 years ago.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: HISTORY Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 8
Episode Name: The President's Inner Circle
Fairly Legal Season 1 Episode 1 Pilot
Preview of 'Fairly Legal':
Once a lawyer at her family's firm, Kate Reed's (Sarah Shahi) frustration with the legal system led her to a new career as a mediator. Thanks to her understanding of human nature, thorough legal knowledge and wry sense of humor, she's a natural at resolving disputes ... except when it comes to her own. With the help of her assistant Leonardo (Baron Vaughn), Kate must balance the stress from her "wicked" stepmother Lauren (Virginia Williams) and soon-to-be-ex-husband Justin (Michael Trucco), with her unconventional life as a mediator.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: USA Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1
Episode Name: Pilot
Once a lawyer at her family's firm, Kate Reed's (Sarah Shahi) frustration with the legal system led her to a new career as a mediator. Thanks to her understanding of human nature, thorough legal knowledge and wry sense of humor, she's a natural at resolving disputes ... except when it comes to her own. With the help of her assistant Leonardo (Baron Vaughn), Kate must balance the stress from her "wicked" stepmother Lauren (Virginia Williams) and soon-to-be-ex-husband Justin (Michael Trucco), with her unconventional life as a mediator.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: USA Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1
Episode Name: Pilot
Beyond Scared Straight Season 1 Episode 0 Jessup
Preview of 'Beyond Scared Straight':
Five teens learn the harsh realities of prison life at the Maryland Correctional Institution at Jessup, where dozens of menacing inmates, including convicted murderers, surround the kids and taunt them. The teens include Steven, 17, who likes the "outlaw" life; Brandon, 17, who's been arrested five times; Dion, who admits to selling drugs; and Sahn, 13, who steals.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: A&E Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 0
Episode Name: Jessup
Five teens learn the harsh realities of prison life at the Maryland Correctional Institution at Jessup, where dozens of menacing inmates, including convicted murderers, surround the kids and taunt them. The teens include Steven, 17, who likes the "outlaw" life; Brandon, 17, who's been arrested five times; Dion, who admits to selling drugs; and Sahn, 13, who steals.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: A&E Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 0
Episode Name: Jessup
Ace of Cakes Season 10 Episode 3 A Millionaire Moment
Preview of 'Ace of Cakes':
Whose idea was it to order to 2 enormous cakes, both due on Wednesday? Duff and his staff go into overdrive to create a cake for the 1500th anniversary of WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE? And Elena burns the midnight oil putting the finishing touches on a cake for the indie band Pavement before they perform their reunion concert in front of thousands in Central Park.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: FOOD Channel
Episode Details: Season 10 Episode 3
Episode Name: A Millionaire Moment
Whose idea was it to order to 2 enormous cakes, both due on Wednesday? Duff and his staff go into overdrive to create a cake for the 1500th anniversary of WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE? And Elena burns the midnight oil putting the finishing touches on a cake for the indie band Pavement before they perform their reunion concert in front of thousands in Central Park.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: FOOD Channel
Episode Details: Season 10 Episode 3
Episode Name: A Millionaire Moment
Kim Kardashian Blames 'Teen Mom' for Real Life Teen Pregnancy Epidemic
It's a good thing Kim Kardashian has a show on E! and not MTV. The reality star has taken a stand against the latter network's glamorization of teen pregnancy with its hit show 'Teen Mom.'
The celebutante took to Twitter to sound off on a troubling trend amongst some of Tennessee's youth.
"Does the show 'Teen Mom' disturb anyone else? Can't get this Memphis story out of my head. This should NOT be trendy!" she Tweeted, then followed up with a special message "to all young girls out there" on her personal blog.
"While I was at 'The Today Show' this morning I saw a story about a Memphis high school where 90 young female students were either pregnant or have given birth this year.... It seems that shows like 'Teen Mom' are all of a sudden making teen pregnancy seem cool in the eyes of young girls," she wrote. "The kids from these shows are all over the news, even on the covers of magazines, and have become almost like celebrities, but girls, these are not people you should idolize," she wrote.
Kim continued, reminiscing on her own youth. "When I think back to when I was 16, there is no way I would even have considered having a baby," she wrote. "Having a baby is one of the biggest, and most life-changing decisions a person can make and while I'm not saying that no teen is in the position to raise a child, having a baby so young shouldn't be seen as the trendy thing to do," she wrote.
"Girls, please, think very carefully before you make these kind of decisions," she continued on her blog. "Take to your family, friends, teachers, and most of all, be careful."
The girl's got a point. Who would've thought Kim could go from sex tape to sex educator in just a matter of years?
The celebutante took to Twitter to sound off on a troubling trend amongst some of Tennessee's youth.
"Does the show 'Teen Mom' disturb anyone else? Can't get this Memphis story out of my head. This should NOT be trendy!" she Tweeted, then followed up with a special message "to all young girls out there" on her personal blog.
"While I was at 'The Today Show' this morning I saw a story about a Memphis high school where 90 young female students were either pregnant or have given birth this year.... It seems that shows like 'Teen Mom' are all of a sudden making teen pregnancy seem cool in the eyes of young girls," she wrote. "The kids from these shows are all over the news, even on the covers of magazines, and have become almost like celebrities, but girls, these are not people you should idolize," she wrote.
Kim continued, reminiscing on her own youth. "When I think back to when I was 16, there is no way I would even have considered having a baby," she wrote. "Having a baby is one of the biggest, and most life-changing decisions a person can make and while I'm not saying that no teen is in the position to raise a child, having a baby so young shouldn't be seen as the trendy thing to do," she wrote.
"Girls, please, think very carefully before you make these kind of decisions," she continued on her blog. "Take to your family, friends, teachers, and most of all, be careful."
The girl's got a point. Who would've thought Kim could go from sex tape to sex educator in just a matter of years?
30 Rock Season 5 Episode 11 Mrs. Donaghy
Preview of '30 Rock':
ALL NEW! Liz's New Year's resolution complicates Jack's wedding to Avery, and Jenna and Danny have to share a dressing room.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 5 Episode 11
Episode Name: Mrs. Donaghy
ALL NEW! Liz's New Year's resolution complicates Jack's wedding to Avery, and Jenna and Danny have to share a dressing room.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 5 Episode 11
Episode Name: Mrs. Donaghy
A President To Remember HBO Special In The Company of John F. Kennedy
Airing Details: 9:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: HBO Channel
Episode Details: HBO Special
Episode Name: In The Company of John F. Kennedy
Channel: HBO Channel
Episode Details: HBO Special
Episode Name: In The Company of John F. Kennedy
Parks and Recreation Season 3 Episode 1 Go Big or Go Home
Preview of 'Parks and Recreation':
Leslie tries to convince Chris and Ben to give the Parks Department more money.
Airing Details: 9:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 1
Episode Name: Go Big or Go Home
Leslie tries to convince Chris and Ben to give the Parks Department more money.
Airing Details: 9:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 1
Episode Name: Go Big or Go Home
Kimora Lee 'Obsessed' With Son's Peeing Abilities
Kimora Lee is back with another season of 'Life in the Fab Lane' on the Style Network. The mother of three, who lives in Los Angeles with actor Djimon Hounsou, their young son Kenzo and her daughters Ming and Aoki (with ex-husband Russell Simmons), may have left her clothing company Baby Phat, but she still has seemingly dozens of other projects and businesses to work on. The ex-model, who coined the word "fabulousity," spoke toPopEater about the new season, her "mini mogul" daughters and her obsession with her 1 1/2-year-old son's penis (seriously!).
Kimora, exactly how does one achieve "fabulousity"?
I think it's an idea that I developed and it's from inside out. It kind of has a cult following. Even Oprah used it in Vogue when she described her night at the Met ball as an evening of "full on fabulousity." For Oprah to be using the word you coined is a big deal. It's a state of being; it's a state of thinking. It embodies self confidence and fearlessness and a lovely smile, and it's really from inside out. I think people are really starting to get that. It's about poise and elegance and a humility that really makes you fabulous.
Are your girls budding fashion designers?
They're definitely mini moguls and fashionistas. They've been with me on every runway. They've done capsule collections. They cut and sew, and they have sewing machines in their rooms.
Is it weird after two girls suddenly having a boy who pees straight up in the air?
Oh my God yes. My husband told me I have to stop talking about his penis, but I'm so obsessed with it because I always wanted a boy. He's always running around saying, "Boobies." He's so rambunctious, and he'll jump over everything. When I'm changing his diaper I'm always calling my husband in and saying, "Look, look at it now." He's like, "Honey put the diaper on, it's normal." And I'm like, "Is it normal that it should be so firm when I'm changing the diaper," and he's like, "Yes, leave the kid alone." It's weird, boys from girls. They don't want to play with dolls. With girls they can sit quietly in a corner and play with dolls or books, and he wants to throw the book or jump off the bed with the doll's head. I realize he has no fear of dying. He wants to jump off everything.
So what can we expect this season?
I think this season is going to be the best one yet because there have been a lot of changes in my life in terms of business and my family and I feel to see that all play out on camera is really nice. It's all about new beginnings and upward and onward. I think a lot of people can relate to that, starting over, so to speak. I feel with the recession and this economy, people understand about new beginnings.
So what is different, business-wise?
I started a company over 10 years ago called Baby Phat and just this year I'm no longer with the company. I've moved on, that's a big step in my life.
Why did you leave?
Time to move on. I have KLS Enterprises which has clothing and fragrances and a skin care line I'm starting. It holds everything else that I'm doing.
Who loves you more? The sistas or the gays?
That's a good one. Oh my, growing up, all my life, I got called a fag hag. The gay kids have been really wonderful to me and big supporters of mine. The sistas change over time, their look, their backgrounds, their ethnicities. I see it on Twitter. They're all over the world, in Dubai, in Sweden, everywhere. I don't know it's kind of close. I think that's what fabulousity is all about too, multi-ethnic; it cuts across genders and sexual preferences. I feel like when I go to places I represent the underdog. I was the underdog coming up in fashion. When I developed all my lines, I did it at a time when women were not having a great voice in doing that and certainly not women of color. I'm blessed to be embraced by both groups.
Kimora, exactly how does one achieve "fabulousity"?
I think it's an idea that I developed and it's from inside out. It kind of has a cult following. Even Oprah used it in Vogue when she described her night at the Met ball as an evening of "full on fabulousity." For Oprah to be using the word you coined is a big deal. It's a state of being; it's a state of thinking. It embodies self confidence and fearlessness and a lovely smile, and it's really from inside out. I think people are really starting to get that. It's about poise and elegance and a humility that really makes you fabulous.
Are your girls budding fashion designers?
They're definitely mini moguls and fashionistas. They've been with me on every runway. They've done capsule collections. They cut and sew, and they have sewing machines in their rooms.
Is it weird after two girls suddenly having a boy who pees straight up in the air?
Oh my God yes. My husband told me I have to stop talking about his penis, but I'm so obsessed with it because I always wanted a boy. He's always running around saying, "Boobies." He's so rambunctious, and he'll jump over everything. When I'm changing his diaper I'm always calling my husband in and saying, "Look, look at it now." He's like, "Honey put the diaper on, it's normal." And I'm like, "Is it normal that it should be so firm when I'm changing the diaper," and he's like, "Yes, leave the kid alone." It's weird, boys from girls. They don't want to play with dolls. With girls they can sit quietly in a corner and play with dolls or books, and he wants to throw the book or jump off the bed with the doll's head. I realize he has no fear of dying. He wants to jump off everything.
So what can we expect this season?
I think this season is going to be the best one yet because there have been a lot of changes in my life in terms of business and my family and I feel to see that all play out on camera is really nice. It's all about new beginnings and upward and onward. I think a lot of people can relate to that, starting over, so to speak. I feel with the recession and this economy, people understand about new beginnings.
So what is different, business-wise?
I started a company over 10 years ago called Baby Phat and just this year I'm no longer with the company. I've moved on, that's a big step in my life.
Why did you leave?
Time to move on. I have KLS Enterprises which has clothing and fragrances and a skin care line I'm starting. It holds everything else that I'm doing.
Who loves you more? The sistas or the gays?
That's a good one. Oh my, growing up, all my life, I got called a fag hag. The gay kids have been really wonderful to me and big supporters of mine. The sistas change over time, their look, their backgrounds, their ethnicities. I see it on Twitter. They're all over the world, in Dubai, in Sweden, everywhere. I don't know it's kind of close. I think that's what fabulousity is all about too, multi-ethnic; it cuts across genders and sexual preferences. I feel like when I go to places I represent the underdog. I was the underdog coming up in fashion. When I developed all my lines, I did it at a time when women were not having a great voice in doing that and certainly not women of color. I'm blessed to be embraced by both groups.
Royal Pains Season 2 Episode 13 Mulligan
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: USA Channel
Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 13
Episode Name: Mulligan
Channel: USA Channel
Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 13
Episode Name: Mulligan
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 1 Episode 13 Unforgivable
Preview of 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills':
Celebrating Taylor's birthday; Kim and Kyle go to blows; Camille learns that Kelsey wants to end the marriage.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: BRAVO Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 13
Episode Name: Unforgivable
Celebrating Taylor's birthday; Kim and Kyle go to blows; Camille learns that Kelsey wants to end the marriage.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: BRAVO Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 13
Episode Name: Unforgivable
Anne Hathaway Cast as Catwoman in 'Dark Knight Rises'
Catwoman is returning to the big screen, and Anne Hathaway is putting on the claws. Christopher Nolan announced in a statement Tuesday that Hathaway will join Tom Hardy and Christian Bale in his latest 'Batman' film, 'The Dark Knight Rises,' according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Anne Hathaway, who will be a fantastic addition to our ensemble as we complete our story," Nolan said.
Hardy, who starred in Nolan's last film 'Inception,' will play Batman's nemesis Bane. News broke of Hardy's casting back in October.
"I am delighted to be working with Tom again and excited to watch him bring to life our new interpretation of one of Batman's most formidable enemies," Nolan said.
Hathaway has long been on Nolan's shortlist of actresses, which included names like Jessica Biel and Keira Knightley, vying for a part in the forthcoming 'Batman' film. Actresses have been testing for the part opposite Bale for the last few weeks, the report says.
Catwoman was iconically portrayed by Michelle Pfeiffer in Tim Burton's 1992 smash 'Batman Returns.' Halle Berry starred in a spinoff film not related to the 'Batman' franchise in 2004.
This is the second time Bane will be included in a 'Bat' film -- he was Poison Ivy's muscleman in 'Batman & Robin' in 1997.
Before Nolan's confirmation, rumors swirled that Hardy would play Dr. Hugo Strange.
'The Dark Knight Rises' will be released on July 20, 2012.
"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Anne Hathaway, who will be a fantastic addition to our ensemble as we complete our story," Nolan said.
Hardy, who starred in Nolan's last film 'Inception,' will play Batman's nemesis Bane. News broke of Hardy's casting back in October.
"I am delighted to be working with Tom again and excited to watch him bring to life our new interpretation of one of Batman's most formidable enemies," Nolan said.
Hathaway has long been on Nolan's shortlist of actresses, which included names like Jessica Biel and Keira Knightley, vying for a part in the forthcoming 'Batman' film. Actresses have been testing for the part opposite Bale for the last few weeks, the report says.
Catwoman was iconically portrayed by Michelle Pfeiffer in Tim Burton's 1992 smash 'Batman Returns.' Halle Berry starred in a spinoff film not related to the 'Batman' franchise in 2004.
This is the second time Bane will be included in a 'Bat' film -- he was Poison Ivy's muscleman in 'Batman & Robin' in 1997.
Before Nolan's confirmation, rumors swirled that Hardy would play Dr. Hugo Strange.
'The Dark Knight Rises' will be released on July 20, 2012.
Selling New York Season 2 Episode 4 The Price is Right
Preview of 'Selling New York':
A design-savvy couple entrusts the sale of their Williamsburg townhouse to Core agent Doug Bowen, in order to relocate to California. Meanwhile, Gumley Haft Kleier agent Bruce Cohen tries to avoid wasting time on a client and friend who may have spent too much time away from the city, and is out of touch with the Manhattan market.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: HGTV Channel
Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 4
Episode Name: The Price is Right
A design-savvy couple entrusts the sale of their Williamsburg townhouse to Core agent Doug Bowen, in order to relocate to California. Meanwhile, Gumley Haft Kleier agent Bruce Cohen tries to avoid wasting time on a client and friend who may have spent too much time away from the city, and is out of touch with the Manhattan market.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: HGTV Channel
Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 4
Episode Name: The Price is Right
Owen Wilson Names New Baby Robert Ford
Robert Ford may be best known as the name of Jesse James' outlaw assassin, but the moniker may be getting an image makeover thanks to Owen Wilson.
Wilson, whose girlfriend, Jade Duell, gave birth to the baby boy last week in Hawaii, surprised fans with news of both their relationship and the pregnancy a short time before their bundle of joy was born. Regarding his secrecy, a source close to the actor says, "Owen has had many girlfriends under the radar who no one knew about. He may have dated high-profile women like actress Kate Hudson and musician Sheryl Crow, but that is not the norm for him. He likes regular people."
While it was originally reported by some media outlets that the couple had chosen the name Ford Linton for their little one, PEOPLE confirms that the Butterscotch Stallion's baby does indeed bear the name Robert Ford.
Wilson, who currently stars in 'Little Fockers,' has not provided a reasoning behind his baby naming decision, but it's far from the craziest baby name in Hollywood.
For our part, we're just guessing Wilson is a Casey Affleck fan.
Wilson, whose girlfriend, Jade Duell, gave birth to the baby boy last week in Hawaii, surprised fans with news of both their relationship and the pregnancy a short time before their bundle of joy was born. Regarding his secrecy, a source close to the actor says, "Owen has had many girlfriends under the radar who no one knew about. He may have dated high-profile women like actress Kate Hudson and musician Sheryl Crow, but that is not the norm for him. He likes regular people."
While it was originally reported by some media outlets that the couple had chosen the name Ford Linton for their little one, PEOPLE confirms that the Butterscotch Stallion's baby does indeed bear the name Robert Ford.
Wilson, who currently stars in 'Little Fockers,' has not provided a reasoning behind his baby naming decision, but it's far from the craziest baby name in Hollywood.
For our part, we're just guessing Wilson is a Casey Affleck fan.
Natalie Portman Offended by Girly Cliches, Wants More 'Female Friendly' Films
Natalie Portman is known in Hollywood for choosing her roles with care. And up until 'No Strings Attached,' the 29-year-old has largely avoided anything that could be considered a "chick flick."
"I've always wanted to do [a romantic comedy]," she tells EW.com. "But the girls are always in fashion, and it's always about their clothes. They always want to get married at the end. There's some kind of makeover scene. That stuff offends me."
But Portman says her new film with costar Ashton Kutcher is an intelligent, female perspective on the played out girl-falls-head-over-heels-for-guy cliche. "My character is a woman who's working, who's trying to create her own construct for relationships, who's funny herself-- and isn't just the girlfriend of a funny guy," she says.
In 'No Strings Attached', Portman plays a doctor who chooses to have a sex-only relationship with Kutcher's character, a TV writer. The actress says the movie's screenwriter Liz Meriwether "writes women so specifically and smartly."
The soon-to-be new mom and recently engaged star is also in the process of developing more female friendly comedies through her own production company. Portman's producing partner, Annette Savitch, says, "We want to do movies that are female driven, from a frresher perspective. So if it's a comedy, it's not just about women out to find husbands. I think that's really lacking today."
"I've always wanted to do [a romantic comedy]," she tells EW.com. "But the girls are always in fashion, and it's always about their clothes. They always want to get married at the end. There's some kind of makeover scene. That stuff offends me."
But Portman says her new film with costar Ashton Kutcher is an intelligent, female perspective on the played out girl-falls-head-over-heels-for-guy cliche. "My character is a woman who's working, who's trying to create her own construct for relationships, who's funny herself-- and isn't just the girlfriend of a funny guy," she says.
In 'No Strings Attached', Portman plays a doctor who chooses to have a sex-only relationship with Kutcher's character, a TV writer. The actress says the movie's screenwriter Liz Meriwether "writes women so specifically and smartly."
The soon-to-be new mom and recently engaged star is also in the process of developing more female friendly comedies through her own production company. Portman's producing partner, Annette Savitch, says, "We want to do movies that are female driven, from a frresher perspective. So if it's a comedy, it's not just about women out to find husbands. I think that's really lacking today."
The Office Season 7 Episode 13 Ultimatum
Preview of 'The Office':
Michael eagerly awaits news from Holly, and Dwight schools Andy on picking up women.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 7 Episode 13
Episode Name: Ultimatum
Michael eagerly awaits news from Holly, and Dwight schools Andy on picking up women.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 7 Episode 13
Episode Name: Ultimatum
Police Women of Cincinnati Season 5 Episode 2 I'm Not Your Baby
Preview of 'Police Women of Cincinnati':
Colleen chases a suspected drug dealer following an undercover buy bust; Rose answers auto break-in call and finds a man, who appears to be dead, slumped inside the car. Mandy has a run-in with an irate mother; Tia has to pull her gun at traffic stop.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: TLC Channel
Episode Details: Season 5 Episode 2
Episode Name: I'm Not Your Baby
Colleen chases a suspected drug dealer following an undercover buy bust; Rose answers auto break-in call and finds a man, who appears to be dead, slumped inside the car. Mandy has a run-in with an irate mother; Tia has to pull her gun at traffic stop.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: TLC Channel
Episode Details: Season 5 Episode 2
Episode Name: I'm Not Your Baby
Masters of Survival Season 1 Episode 1 Wild Guides
Preview of 'Masters of Survival':
Discovery's masters face the wilderness survival scenarios you're most likely to encounter, and show you how to make it back from any outdoor adventure gone wrong.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: DISCOVERY Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1
Episode Name: Wild Guides
Discovery's masters face the wilderness survival scenarios you're most likely to encounter, and show you how to make it back from any outdoor adventure gone wrong.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: DISCOVERY Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1
Episode Name: Wild Guides
The First 48 Season 11 Episode 2 The Slip / Pure Victim
Preview of 'The First 48':
In Detroit, Sgt. Ernest Wilson and his team investigate the double-homicide of two twenty-six-year-olds, shot execution-style in the basement. When investigators find a slip of paper at the crime scene, it initiates a manhunt that sends investigators to the other side of the country. And in Harris County, TX, a 79-year-old woman is shot and killed while unloading groceries from her car. As the case unravels, investigators get a startling glimpse of the killer--a teenager with a long history of violence.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: A&E Channel
Episode Details: Season 11 Episode 2
Episode Name: The Slip / Pure Victim
In Detroit, Sgt. Ernest Wilson and his team investigate the double-homicide of two twenty-six-year-olds, shot execution-style in the basement. When investigators find a slip of paper at the crime scene, it initiates a manhunt that sends investigators to the other side of the country. And in Harris County, TX, a 79-year-old woman is shot and killed while unloading groceries from her car. As the case unravels, investigators get a startling glimpse of the killer--a teenager with a long history of violence.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: A&E Channel
Episode Details: Season 11 Episode 2
Episode Name: The Slip / Pure Victim
NBA's Substantial Home Court Advantage: What Makes Players Worse On The Road?
SBNation.com's awesome Jon Bois put together a comprehensive and intriguing look at home court advantage in pro sports. As it turns out, among NBA teams over the last three full seasons, the Utah Jazz have the largest spread between home and road performance, with the Denver Nuggets and (for some bizarre reason) Indiana Pacers just behind.
But perhaps most interesting is that NBA teams have a collective home court advantage much stronger than those of their NFL, Major League Baseball and NHL counterparts. From 2007-08 through 2009-10, NBA teams, had they played all 82 games at home, would have won an addition 10.1 percent of matches. The figure for the NFL was just 6.4 percent, baseball was at 5.4 percent and the NHL at 5.2 percent.
That's pretty odd, considering weather isn't a factor in the NBA (as it is in baseball and football) and every NBA court is spacially the same (as opposed to baseball's unique parks). So why do NBA teams win so much more frequently at home? Because of the inherent nature of the NBA schedule.
NBA teams play 41 games at home and 41 games on the road. But many of those NBA games come under duress, because the league always tries to shrink road trips in terms of total days spent travelling (and as such, in team-commissioned hotels and riding team-commissioned planes). As such, nearly all back-to-backs occur on the road. There's really no reason to schedule those episodes during home stands -- even though there are equal games on the road and at home, there is no financial or humanist rationale for keeping homestands as short as possible, as there is for road trips.
Ed Kupfer, currently a Rockets analyst, did a study on the APBRmetrics forum in early 2005 looking at factors in win probability. The language is technical, but in summary, after opponent quality and a home court advantage, days since a team's last game was the biggest factor in determining who wins a game. As teams on the road are typically (not always, but usually) on shorter rest, this serves as an added home court advantage (or more accurately, a road disadvantage).
They say one of the hardest things to do in the NBA is to play a fourth game in five nights -- basically the back end of a back-to-back right after a back-to-back. The fact that at least three and likely all four of those games came on the road dovetails right into Bois' findings that home court means a lot more in the NBA than anywhere else.
But perhaps most interesting is that NBA teams have a collective home court advantage much stronger than those of their NFL, Major League Baseball and NHL counterparts. From 2007-08 through 2009-10, NBA teams, had they played all 82 games at home, would have won an addition 10.1 percent of matches. The figure for the NFL was just 6.4 percent, baseball was at 5.4 percent and the NHL at 5.2 percent.
That's pretty odd, considering weather isn't a factor in the NBA (as it is in baseball and football) and every NBA court is spacially the same (as opposed to baseball's unique parks). So why do NBA teams win so much more frequently at home? Because of the inherent nature of the NBA schedule.
NBA teams play 41 games at home and 41 games on the road. But many of those NBA games come under duress, because the league always tries to shrink road trips in terms of total days spent travelling (and as such, in team-commissioned hotels and riding team-commissioned planes). As such, nearly all back-to-backs occur on the road. There's really no reason to schedule those episodes during home stands -- even though there are equal games on the road and at home, there is no financial or humanist rationale for keeping homestands as short as possible, as there is for road trips.
Ed Kupfer, currently a Rockets analyst, did a study on the APBRmetrics forum in early 2005 looking at factors in win probability. The language is technical, but in summary, after opponent quality and a home court advantage, days since a team's last game was the biggest factor in determining who wins a game. As teams on the road are typically (not always, but usually) on shorter rest, this serves as an added home court advantage (or more accurately, a road disadvantage).
They say one of the hardest things to do in the NBA is to play a fourth game in five nights -- basically the back end of a back-to-back right after a back-to-back. The fact that at least three and likely all four of those games came on the road dovetails right into Bois' findings that home court means a lot more in the NBA than anywhere else.
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Season 11 Episode 12 A Kiss Before Frying
Preview of 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation':
The CSIs link a body with severe burn marks to possible execution by electric chair - and to a legendary Vegas murder on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: CBS Channel
Episode Details: Season 11 Episode 12
Episode Name: A Kiss Before Frying
The CSIs link a body with severe burn marks to possible execution by electric chair - and to a legendary Vegas murder on CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: CBS Channel
Episode Details: Season 11 Episode 12
Episode Name: A Kiss Before Frying
Rafael Soriano Contract Not Brian Cashman's Idea; Situation Awkward
About a week ago, the Yankees signed Rafael Soriano to a three-year, $35 million contract, the magnitude of which caught a lot of people off guard. There were rumblings at the time that the front office was split on the decision, and on Wednesday, general manager Brian Cashman confirmed to the press that this wasn't really something he wanted to do.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman admitted he was overruled by ownership, which signed reliever Rafael Soriano over his objection.
Cashman felt that he could better allocate the club’s resources elsewhere, and that he could improve the bullpen by other means, if necessary.
Cashman did say that he feels the Yankees are better with Soriano than without him, which keeps him from sounding too negative, and front offices throughout baseball seldom share a unanimous opinion on anything anyway. At the same time, though, perhaps the day of Rafael Soriano's formal introduction at Yankee Stadium is the wrong day for Cashman to publicly declare that Soriano's acquisition didn't have his support.
Soriano: I'm happy to be a Yankee and to be pitching in front of the greatest closer of all time
Cashman: And we're happy that you're a Yankee too, although I'd personally be happier with other players instead
And just for good measure, Cashman dropped another, unrelated nugget a little later on:
Cashman admitted that he engaged Carl Pavano’s agent, but nothing came of their discussions.
For Brian Cashman, Make Everyone Around You Uncomfortable Day has been a resounding success.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman admitted he was overruled by ownership, which signed reliever Rafael Soriano over his objection.
Cashman felt that he could better allocate the club’s resources elsewhere, and that he could improve the bullpen by other means, if necessary.
Cashman did say that he feels the Yankees are better with Soriano than without him, which keeps him from sounding too negative, and front offices throughout baseball seldom share a unanimous opinion on anything anyway. At the same time, though, perhaps the day of Rafael Soriano's formal introduction at Yankee Stadium is the wrong day for Cashman to publicly declare that Soriano's acquisition didn't have his support.
Soriano: I'm happy to be a Yankee and to be pitching in front of the greatest closer of all time
Cashman: And we're happy that you're a Yankee too, although I'd personally be happier with other players instead
And just for good measure, Cashman dropped another, unrelated nugget a little later on:
Cashman admitted that he engaged Carl Pavano’s agent, but nothing came of their discussions.
For Brian Cashman, Make Everyone Around You Uncomfortable Day has been a resounding success.
Bones Season 6 Episode 10 The Body in the Bag
Preview of 'Bones':
An unidentifiable body is discovered in the shower of an upscale home belonging to a young female socialite. With the help of nosey bones expert and Jeffersonian "squint" Clark Edison, skeletal reconstruction and evidence in the drain reveal that the victim was a young Chinese girl who was employed by a counterfeit handbag distributor. The team learns that the victim supplied counterfeit purses to her socialite acquaintance in a desperate effort to fit in with the hip, exclusive crowd, and after interrogating the self-centered socialite and sifting through footage on a hidden camera, they discover evidence linking them to the murderer. Meanwhile, Angela and Hodgins discuss their future home and where they want to raise a family, and Booth opens up to Hannah about Brennan's feelings for him.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: FOX Channel
Episode Details: Season 6 Episode 10
Episode Name: The Body in the Bag
An unidentifiable body is discovered in the shower of an upscale home belonging to a young female socialite. With the help of nosey bones expert and Jeffersonian "squint" Clark Edison, skeletal reconstruction and evidence in the drain reveal that the victim was a young Chinese girl who was employed by a counterfeit handbag distributor. The team learns that the victim supplied counterfeit purses to her socialite acquaintance in a desperate effort to fit in with the hip, exclusive crowd, and after interrogating the self-centered socialite and sifting through footage on a hidden camera, they discover evidence linking them to the murderer. Meanwhile, Angela and Hodgins discuss their future home and where they want to raise a family, and Booth opens up to Hannah about Brennan's feelings for him.
Airing Details: 9:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: FOX Channel
Episode Details: Season 6 Episode 10
Episode Name: The Body in the Bag
Bleep My Dad Says Season 1 Episode 14 Corn Star
Preview of 'Bleep My Dad Says':
When the homeowners' association president complains that the corn stalks in Ed's garden are too tall, Ed harnesses his anger by running for president himself on the next episode of $#*! My Dad Says.
Airing Details: 8:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: CBS Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 14
Episode Name: Corn Star
When the homeowners' association president complains that the corn stalks in Ed's garden are too tall, Ed harnesses his anger by running for president himself on the next episode of $#*! My Dad Says.
Airing Details: 8:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: CBS Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 14
Episode Name: Corn Star
Perfect Couples Season 1 Episode 1 Pilot
Preview of 'Perfect Couples':
Three couples' lives collide as they each pursue the idea of a perfect relationship.
Airing Details: 8:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1
Episode Name: Pilot
Three couples' lives collide as they each pursue the idea of a perfect relationship.
Airing Details: 8:30 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1
Episode Name: Pilot
Carmelo Anthony Trade Options Down To Knicks, Bulls And Uh-Oh
The New Jersey Nets have ended the Carmelo Anthony hostage situation trade talks by walking away from table. Both owner Mikhail Prokhorov and general manager Billy King claimed during Wednesday's press conference that the decision was final; should 'Melo somehow express interest in getting his extension in Newark and the Denver Nuggets drop their more outlandish requests from what had already been a lopsided offer, we'll see how well the Nets' proclamation holds.
In the meantime, the floodgates for hare-brained schemes to get 'Melo to the New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls and other points unknown have opened. The Nuggets have been involved in highly publicized trade talks revolving around their star for almost five months, three of which overlapped with actual, meaningful games. Today, 'Melo is five months closer to unrestricted free agency than he was when the Nuggets and Nets first began to dance.
And that's what this is all about, after all: 'Melo plans to leave Denver come hell or high snow, and the Nuggets, having watched the Raptors and Cavaliers fall so hard so fast when their own stars fled, wants to get something before it's too late. If 'Melo won't sign with Denver, the Nuggets must look toward tomorrow and find some sort of consolation prize.
That why Anthony's other suitors are now in the driver's seat.
The Nuggets don't have the luxury of being able to blink, or bluff. LeBron James made that impossible. The Cavaliers have made that impossible. LeBron and 'Melo came into the league together in 2003. The season prior their arrival, do you know what the Cavs' and Nuggets' combined record was? 34-130. That's 34 wins combined, 130 losses combined. That's history for Denver, right? But it's the present for Cleveland, and it's quite possibly the future for the Nuggets if 'Melo doesn't bring back some gold.
So enter the Knicks, who could package a pair of first-round picks (assuming they can flip Anthony Randolph to the Wolves) with one of the team's young gunners like Wilson Chandler or Danilo Gallinari. And enter the Bulls, who just might consider moving Joakim Noah now that the Kurt Thomas-Carlos Boozer-Taj Gibson frontcourt looks like a top-flight unit on both ends.
And hell, enter the Mavericks (Rodrigue Beaubois, man?), Rockets (Kevin Martin and the Knicks' 2012 pick), Wizards (come home, 'Melo!) and every other team in the league. The Nuggets might try to play hard-to-get for a minute, but Denver's been batting its eyelashes for far too long to get away with playing coy now. The Nuggets have been open for business for five months now. The top suitor is gone, and the door is wide open. Let the ridiculous trade ideas games begin.
In the meantime, the floodgates for hare-brained schemes to get 'Melo to the New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls and other points unknown have opened. The Nuggets have been involved in highly publicized trade talks revolving around their star for almost five months, three of which overlapped with actual, meaningful games. Today, 'Melo is five months closer to unrestricted free agency than he was when the Nuggets and Nets first began to dance.
And that's what this is all about, after all: 'Melo plans to leave Denver come hell or high snow, and the Nuggets, having watched the Raptors and Cavaliers fall so hard so fast when their own stars fled, wants to get something before it's too late. If 'Melo won't sign with Denver, the Nuggets must look toward tomorrow and find some sort of consolation prize.
That why Anthony's other suitors are now in the driver's seat.
The Nuggets don't have the luxury of being able to blink, or bluff. LeBron James made that impossible. The Cavaliers have made that impossible. LeBron and 'Melo came into the league together in 2003. The season prior their arrival, do you know what the Cavs' and Nuggets' combined record was? 34-130. That's 34 wins combined, 130 losses combined. That's history for Denver, right? But it's the present for Cleveland, and it's quite possibly the future for the Nuggets if 'Melo doesn't bring back some gold.
So enter the Knicks, who could package a pair of first-round picks (assuming they can flip Anthony Randolph to the Wolves) with one of the team's young gunners like Wilson Chandler or Danilo Gallinari. And enter the Bulls, who just might consider moving Joakim Noah now that the Kurt Thomas-Carlos Boozer-Taj Gibson frontcourt looks like a top-flight unit on both ends.
And hell, enter the Mavericks (Rodrigue Beaubois, man?), Rockets (Kevin Martin and the Knicks' 2012 pick), Wizards (come home, 'Melo!) and every other team in the league. The Nuggets might try to play hard-to-get for a minute, but Denver's been batting its eyelashes for far too long to get away with playing coy now. The Nuggets have been open for business for five months now. The top suitor is gone, and the door is wide open. Let the ridiculous trade ideas games begin.
Packers-Bears NFC Championship Fueling Chicago's Hate-O-Meter
Those famous SNL skits about Chicago sports fans are true to life: everything in the Windy City really does go back to the Chicago Bears. Last weekend in Chicago sports synergy the Chicago Blackhawks' designated national anthem singer got the call-up to Soldier Field.
This time around even the poor Charlotte Bobcats, who are owned by Chicago legend Michael Jordan, became nothing but pawns in the great NFC Championship war when they stopped by to play the Bulls
When a free throw late in the first half, attempted by a 15-24 team in a midseason basketball game, becomes Ten Seconds Hate fodder, you know your town is taking its football game seriously enough. Just be glad they didn't have to break out the Photoshop of Aaron Rodgers crushing a human face forever. Chicago has always been at war with Seattle Green Bay.
Considering this is one of the biggest games in the history of the NFL's most-storied rivalry, it's no surprise that median ticket prices were nearing quadruple digits at one point.
This time around even the poor Charlotte Bobcats, who are owned by Chicago legend Michael Jordan, became nothing but pawns in the great NFC Championship war when they stopped by to play the Bulls
When a free throw late in the first half, attempted by a 15-24 team in a midseason basketball game, becomes Ten Seconds Hate fodder, you know your town is taking its football game seriously enough. Just be glad they didn't have to break out the Photoshop of Aaron Rodgers crushing a human face forever. Chicago has always been at war with Seattle Green Bay.
Considering this is one of the biggest games in the history of the NFL's most-storied rivalry, it's no surprise that median ticket prices were nearing quadruple digits at one point.
Wipeout Season 4 Episode 3 Winter Wipeout: Don't Fear The Beaver
Preview of 'Wipeout ':
A rocket scientist, a dancer and a river guide face obstacles, including the Ski Lift and Seven Letter Word.
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: ABC Channel
Episode Details: Season 4 Episode 3
Episode Name: Winter Wipeout: Don't Fear The Beaver
A rocket scientist, a dancer and a river guide face obstacles, including the Ski Lift and Seven Letter Word.
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: ABC Channel
Episode Details: Season 4 Episode 3
Episode Name: Winter Wipeout: Don't Fear The Beaver
Community Season 2 Episode 12 Asian Population Studies
Preview of 'Community':
Someone has a new crush and it's driving Jeff crazy.
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 12
Episode Name: Asian Population Studies
Someone has a new crush and it's driving Jeff crazy.
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NBC Channel
Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 12
Episode Name: Asian Population Studies
Naked Science Season 9 Episode 19 Star Clock BC
Preview of 'Naked Science':
In 1900, a group of Greek sponge divers happened upon a two thousand year old ship wreck at the bottom of the Aegean Sea that would re-write history. Hidden among a rich cache of bronze and marble statues, glassware and amphorae was a mechanism the size of a shoe box. Inside the mechanism were mathematical gears and pointers. The Ancient Greeks were known to be philosophers, poets, and mathematicians but there was nothing in the archeological record to suggest that they were also technicians capable of creating something so complex. For 100 years researchers have been trying to understand what the mechanism does. Lone Wolf Documentary Group follows two professional model makers - Chris Weisbart and Maris Ensing - as they try to understand the ancient mechanism by building one themselves. Interviews with experts around the world help shed light on the mystery of this phenomenal artifact.
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NGC Channel
Episode Details: Season 9 Episode 19
Episode Name: Star Clock BC
In 1900, a group of Greek sponge divers happened upon a two thousand year old ship wreck at the bottom of the Aegean Sea that would re-write history. Hidden among a rich cache of bronze and marble statues, glassware and amphorae was a mechanism the size of a shoe box. Inside the mechanism were mathematical gears and pointers. The Ancient Greeks were known to be philosophers, poets, and mathematicians but there was nothing in the archeological record to suggest that they were also technicians capable of creating something so complex. For 100 years researchers have been trying to understand what the mechanism does. Lone Wolf Documentary Group follows two professional model makers - Chris Weisbart and Maris Ensing - as they try to understand the ancient mechanism by building one themselves. Interviews with experts around the world help shed light on the mystery of this phenomenal artifact.
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: NGC Channel
Episode Details: Season 9 Episode 19
Episode Name: Star Clock BC
The Big Bang Theory Season 4 Episode 13 The Love Car Displacement
Preview of 'The Big Bang Theory':
Tension runs high when everyone is staying at the same hotel for a science event and Bernadette runs into her ex-boyfriend on the next episode of The Big Bang Theory.
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: CBS Channel
Episode Details: Season 4 Episode 13
Episode Name: The Love Car Displacement
Tension runs high when everyone is staying at the same hotel for a science event and Bernadette runs into her ex-boyfriend on the next episode of The Big Bang Theory.
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: CBS Channel
Episode Details: Season 4 Episode 13
Episode Name: The Love Car Displacement
American Idol Season 10 Episode 3 Auditions #2: New Orleans
Preview of 'American Idol':
The auditions continue on the second part of two-night season premiere of AMERICAN IDOL as the judges continue their quest to find the next singing superstar. Don’t miss the auditions that everyone will be talking about the next day
Host: Ryan Seacrest Judges: Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler In-House Mentor: Jimmy Iovine
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: FOX Channel
Episode Details: Season 10 Episode 3
Episode Name: Auditions #2: New Orleans
The auditions continue on the second part of two-night season premiere of AMERICAN IDOL as the judges continue their quest to find the next singing superstar. Don’t miss the auditions that everyone will be talking about the next day
Host: Ryan Seacrest Judges: Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler In-House Mentor: Jimmy Iovine
Airing Details: 8:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: FOX Channel
Episode Details: Season 10 Episode 3
Episode Name: Auditions #2: New Orleans
This Week Season 9 Episode 15
Preview of 'This Week':
A political review of the week presented by Andrew Neil, with Michael Portillo and guests.
Airing Details: 11:35 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: BBC One Channel
Episode Details: Season 9 Episode 15
Episode Name: EPISODE: 15
A political review of the week presented by Andrew Neil, with Michael Portillo and guests.
Airing Details: 11:35 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: BBC One Channel
Episode Details: Season 9 Episode 15
Episode Name: EPISODE: 15
The Comics Choice Awards Season 1 Episode 5
Preview of 'The Comics Choice Awards':
In the lead up to The British Comedy Awards Sean Lock talks to Bill Bailey about who he thinks deserves to win an award and reveals his all-time comedy heroes and inspirations.
Airing Details: 11:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: Channel 4
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 5
Episode Name: EPISODE: 5
In the lead up to The British Comedy Awards Sean Lock talks to Bill Bailey about who he thinks deserves to win an award and reveals his all-time comedy heroes and inspirations.
Airing Details: 11:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: Channel 4
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 5
Episode Name: EPISODE: 5
Question Time Season 31 Episode 15
Preview of 'Question Time':
David Dimbleby chairs the topical debate from Burnley.
The panel includes Alastair Campbell; George Galloway; Lib Dem deputy leader, Simon Hughes; Secretary of State for the Environment, Caroline Spelman; and the Chairman of the Professional Footballers Association, the Burnley defender Clarke Carlisle.
Airing Details: 10:40 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: BBC One Channel
Episode Details: Season 31 Episode 15
Episode Name: EPISODE: 15
David Dimbleby chairs the topical debate from Burnley.
The panel includes Alastair Campbell; George Galloway; Lib Dem deputy leader, Simon Hughes; Secretary of State for the Environment, Caroline Spelman; and the Chairman of the Professional Footballers Association, the Burnley defender Clarke Carlisle.
Airing Details: 10:40 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: BBC One Channel
Episode Details: Season 31 Episode 15
Episode Name: EPISODE: 15
Wild's Backstrom Earns Shutout in Return from Injury
Niklas Backstrom returned from a hip injury to make 37 saves for his second shutout of the season in the Minnesota Wild's 6-0 victory over the Calgary Flames on Wednesday.
Backstrom, in goal for the first time since Dec. 31, has 21 career NHL shutouts.
Martin Havlat had two goals and an assist, John Madden, Chuck Kobasew and Cal Clutterbuck each had a goal and an assist and Mikko Koivu also scored. Kyle Brodziak had three assists, and Andrew Brunette added two.
Coming off victories over Vancouver on Sunday night and in Edmonton on Tuesday night with Anton Khudobin in goal, the Wild have won three straight and seven of their last 10 to pull within a point of Colorado and Chicago Blackhawks for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Minnesota took a 2-0 lead in first 6:04.
Havlat opened the scoring at 3:25, blasting a shot over Miikka Kiprusoff's left pad, and Koivu doubled the lead on a power play, snapping a shot through traffic past the screened Kiprusoff.
Madden scored late in the second, and Clutterbuck, Kobasew and Havlat added goals in the third.
Backstrom, in goal for the first time since Dec. 31, has 21 career NHL shutouts.
Martin Havlat had two goals and an assist, John Madden, Chuck Kobasew and Cal Clutterbuck each had a goal and an assist and Mikko Koivu also scored. Kyle Brodziak had three assists, and Andrew Brunette added two.
Coming off victories over Vancouver on Sunday night and in Edmonton on Tuesday night with Anton Khudobin in goal, the Wild have won three straight and seven of their last 10 to pull within a point of Colorado and Chicago Blackhawks for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Minnesota took a 2-0 lead in first 6:04.
Havlat opened the scoring at 3:25, blasting a shot over Miikka Kiprusoff's left pad, and Koivu doubled the lead on a power play, snapping a shot through traffic past the screened Kiprusoff.
Madden scored late in the second, and Clutterbuck, Kobasew and Havlat added goals in the third.
Raising Hope Season 1 Episode 8 Blue Dots
Preview of 'Raising Hope':
Jimmy, realizing that Hope is the only child in daycare, tries to get her in a high end daycare. The only obstacle in his way is the fact that his dad is a registered sex offender, because his dad and mom were caught having sex under the age of consent (he was 17 and she was 15).
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: Sky One Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 8
Episode Name: Blue Dots
Jimmy, realizing that Hope is the only child in daycare, tries to get her in a high end daycare. The only obstacle in his way is the fact that his dad is a registered sex offender, because his dad and mom were caught having sex under the age of consent (he was 17 and she was 15).
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: Sky One Channel
Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 8
Episode Name: Blue Dots
Lie to Me Season 3 Episode 6 Beyond Belief
Preview of 'Lie to Me':
When a wealthy woman (Julia Campbell) attempts suicide in the office of the leader of a self-help empire (David Sutcliffe) her daughter hires Lightman to investigate the cult-like leader. As Lightman gets closer to the truth about the self-help guru's past threats are made against Lightman and his daughter.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: Sky One Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 6
Episode Name: Beyond Belief
When a wealthy woman (Julia Campbell) attempts suicide in the office of the leader of a self-help empire (David Sutcliffe) her daughter hires Lightman to investigate the cult-like leader. As Lightman gets closer to the truth about the self-help guru's past threats are made against Lightman and his daughter.
Airing Details: 10:00 PM on January 20th, 2011 - Thursday
Channel: Sky One Channel
Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 6
Episode Name: Beyond Belief
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