'Barney Miller' star Steve Landesberg dies at 65

Steve Landesberg, best known as Detective Arthur Dietrich on the classic TV series 'Barney Miller' has died at the age of 65 after battling cancer.

"It is with great sadness to report the loss of my friend and client Steve Landesberg," Jeffrey Leavitt of Leavitt Talent Group said in a statement.  "Working with Steve was an honor both personally and professionally. My heart goes out to his family. He will be missed," Leavitt said.

Born Nov. 23, 1945 in New York City, Landesberg began his career as a stand-up comedian and was a contemporary of top 1970s draws such as Freddie Prinze and Jimmy Walker.

He landed the role of Det. Arthur Dietrich on "Barney Miller" in 1975, and stayed with the show about New York cops until it ended in 1982.

Landesberg went on to work in a variety of TV and movie roles, including the series "Cosby" and "The Ghost Whisperer," and the hit 2008 movie "Forgetting Sarah Marshall."

Landesberg passed away in New York. He is survived by his wife Nancy and his daughter.

Golden Globe Nominations announced!

The Golden Globe nominations were announced yesterday, 'Glee' led the TV nominations with 5.

Here is the complete list of TV nominations:

BEST TV SERIES - DRAMA

• Boardwalk Empire
• Dexter
• The Good Wife
• Mad Men
• The Walking Dead

BEST ACTRESS - TV DRAMA SERIES

• Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife
• Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men
• Piper Perabo, Covert Affairs
• Katey Sagal, Sons of Anarchy
• Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer

BEST ACTOR - TV DRAMA SERIES

• Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire
• Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad
• Michael C. Hall, Dexter
• Jon Hamm, Mad Men
• Hugh Laurie, House

BEST COMEDY SERIES

• 30 Rock
• The Big Bang Theory
• The Big C
• Glee
• Modern Family
• Nurse Jackie

BEST ACTRESS - TV COMEDY

• Toni Collette, United States of Tara
• Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie
• Tina Fey, 30 Rock
• Laura Linney, The Big C
• Lea Michele, Glee

BEST ACTOR - TV COMEDY

• Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
• Steve Carell, The Office
• Thomas Jane, Hung
• Matthew Morrison, Glee
• Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory

BEST MINI-SERIES OR MADE-FOR-TV MOVIE

• Carlos
• The Pacific
• Pillars of the Earth
• Temple Grandin
• You Don’t Know Jack

BEST ACTRESS - MINI-SERIES OR MADE-FOR-TV MOVIE

• Hayley Atwell, Pillars of the Earth
• Claire Danes, Temple Grandin
• Judi Dench, Return to Cranford
• Romola Garai, Emma
• Jennifer Love Hewitt, The Client List

BEST ACTOR - MINI-SERIES OR MADE-FOR-TV MOVIE

• Idris Elba, Luther
• Ian McShane, Pillars of the Earth
• Al Pacino, You Don’t Know Jack
• Dennis Quaid, The Special Relationship
• Edgar Ramirez, Carlos

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS - SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MADE-FOR-TV MOVIE

• Hope Davis, The Special Relationship
• Jane Lynch, Glee
• Kelly MacDonald, Boardwalk Empire
• Julia Stiles, Dexter
• Sofia Vergara, Modern Family

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR - SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MADE-FOR-TV MOVIE

• Scott Caan, Hawaii Five-0
• Chris Colfer, Glee
• Chris Noth, The Good Wife
• Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family
• David Strathairn, Temple Grandin

The 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards, hosted again by Ricky Gervais, will air Jan. 16 on NBC.

TNT Cancels 'Dark Blue'

TNT has cancelled the police drama 'Dark Blue' after just 2 seasons.

The show about an undercover group of cops ended its second season Sept. 10.

The series averaged 2.2 million viewers per episode during the second season.

These numbers were significantly lower than TNT's hit shows 'The Closer' (7.21 million), and 'Rizzoli & Isles' (6.89 million).

Good news for Castle fans! Season gets extended by 2 episodes.

'Castle' fans have something to be happy about today.  The show has done so well for ABC that the network has decided to order 2 more episodes.  This brings the season total to 24.

On average, 'Castle' ranks a strong No. 2 in its Monday timeslot in total viewers (12.8 million) and adults 18-49 (3.2 rating/8 share). Over the last four weeks, 'Castle' -  which is getting a big boost from 'Dancing With The Stars' -  has drawn more viewers than 'Hawaii Five-0'. This has been the show’s best season ever, ratings wise.

The show is also TV’s No. 1 show at 10 p.m. in the highly coveted adults 18-49 demographic.

ABC Cancels 'The Whole Truth'

ABC announced that they would not be ordering any further episodes of the Rob Morrow-Maura Tierney series, 'The Whole Truth.' 

The network had originally ordered 13 episodes, and will air the entire 13, but that will be all. 

A new episode of the drama,  is still scheduled to air Wednesday, but it's unclear when exactly the remaining new episodes will air beyond that. Work on the show's initial 13-episode order will continue until mid-December,

'Truth' becomes the 4th series this fall to be cancelled joining 'Lone Star,' 'My Generation,' and 'Outlaw.'

In addition to the cancellation news, ABC announced that it given full season orders to 'No Ordinary Family,'  'Better With You,' and 'Brothers & Sisters.'  They also ordered 5 more episodes of 'Detroit 1-8-7.'

Mr. Cunningham, Tom Bosley, dies at 83

Tom Bosley, best known as the beloved Mr. Cunningham on TV's iconic series 'Happy Days', has died at the age of 83.

The family says Bosley died of heart failure at 4 a.m. Tuesday at a hospital near his Palm Springs home.  TMZ reported that the actor died of a staph infection.

Bosley's agent, Sheryl Abrams, says he was also battling lung cancer.

Actor/Director Ron Howard said, "I'm so saddened by the loss of our wonderful Tom Bosley. Remarkable on so many levels, Tom's insight, talent, strength of character and comic timing made him a vital central figure in the Happy Days experience.   A great father and husband, and a wonderful artist, Tom lead by example, and made us all laugh while he was doing it.   My last conversations with Tom reflected the love of life and peace of mind that he always maintained throughout his full and rewarding life.  I miss him already."

Actor Henry Winkler, who played Arthur Fonzarelli on 'Happy Days' says he's shocked to hear the news.

"I'm just in shock, I really am," Winkler told KNX 1070 News Radio.   "I spoke to him just a few weeks ago and he seemed to be getting his strength back," he said.

Scott Baio, who played Chachi said,  "He was a good man who taught me a lot about the business and business itself. He was a professional guy ... I'm sad."

He's survived by his wife, actress Patricia Carr, daughter Amy and three grandchildren.

Barbara Billingsley, Beaver's Mom, dies at 94.

One of TV's greatest mom's has died.  Barbara Billingsley, best known for playing June Cleaver, Beaver's mom on Leave It To Beaver, died at 94.

Billingsley died early Saturday at her Santa Monica, Calif., home, family spokeswoman Judy Twersky said. The actress had suffered from a rheumatoid disease.

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend and lifetime mentor Barbara Billingsley. She will live in the hearts of her fans as a wonderful actress and be remembered by her friends as a gracious lady."  Beaver co-star Jerry Mathers who played Billingsley's mischievous son, Theodore "Beaver" Cleaver,  told TMZ.   "She will be deeply missed by all of her family, friends, fans and most especially by me."

"America's favorite mother is now gone. I feel very fortunate to have been her 'son' for 11 years," said Tony Dow, who played Wally Cleaver. "We were wonderful friends and I will miss her very much."

Billingsley, who began her career as a model before venturing into acting, was married three times and leaves behind two sons, Drew and Glenn.

FX renews 'Sons of Anarchy'

This will not come as a surprise to anyone, but FX has renewed 'Sons of Anarchy' for a 4th season.  

"Sons of Anarchy is the most popular show FX has ever had, and the #1 series in basic cable for our key demographic.  It is also one of the best, most original series on television,” said FX president John Landgraf.

With the success of past shows such as 'The Shield,' 'Nip/Tuck,' and 'Damages,' and with 'Rescue Me' entering its final season, 'Anarchy' has become the networks flagship show.  

Season 3 will conclude on November 30. The 13-episode fourth season will most likely begin fall 2011.

'My Generation' cancelled by ABC

ABC has announced that they have pulled the plug on the ensemble drama 'My Generation' after just 2 episodes.  This makes it the 2nd network show to be cancelled this season following last weeks cancellation of 'Lone Star' by Fox.

The show, which  followed a group of young people 10 years after they graduated from high school, managed only a 1.1 rating in the 18-49 demographic on its last outing.

'My Generation' had 8 more episodes already produced, though the network has not yet decided if they will be made available on ABC.com or burned off some other way. The network also has yet to settle on what will fill the 8 p.m. slot this week.

Iconic TV Producer Stephen J. Cannell dies

Stephen J. Cannell,  one of the most successful television producers of the '70s, '80s and '90s, died on Thursday  evening. He was 69.

Cannell passed away at his home in Pasadena, Calif., on Thursday night from complications associated with melanoma, his family said in a statement on Friday.

Cannell started out as a writer on shows including "Ironside" and "Columbo," but made his biggest mark as creator or co-creator of dramas including "The Rockford Files," "The Greatest American Hero," "Hardcastle and McCormick," "Baretta," "The A-Team," "Wiseguy," "Hunter," "21 Jump Street," "Silk Stalkings" and "The Commish."

Cannell was an Emmy winner in 1978 for producing "The Rockford Files," Cannell earned later Emmy nods for writing the "Tenspeed and Brown Shoe" and "Greatest American Hero" pilots and for producing "Wiseguy."

Cannell also wrote 16 novels, and acted quite frequently with credits including "Renegade," and was most recently seen as himself on episodes of ABC's "Castle."

Cannell is survived by Marcia, his wife of 46 years, their three children, and three grandchildren.

Fox cancels 'Lone Star' after 2 episodes

The new fall season has its first casualty.  Fox has cancelled the critically-acclaimed but low rated 'Lone Star' after just 2 episodes.

'Lie To Me' which wasn't supposed to return until later this fall will instead return next Monday and assume the 'Lone Star' timeslot.

'Lone Star' started off very badly last week, with just over 4 million viewers.  This week the numbers were even worse, when viewership dropped to just 3.2 million.

Production on the show will stop immediately according to a 20th Century Fox spokesperson.  “We will have shot five completed episodes after the pilot,” says the rep, “and will not complete principal photography on episode 106.”  It’s not clear what will happen to the four unaired episodes.

'Big Bang' explodes in new time slot

CBS much talked about move of 'Big Bang Theory' to Thursdays appears to have paid off.  The show premiered last night to monster ratings.

The sitcom easily won its timeslot at 8 p.m. and averaged a stunning 13.95 million viewers opposite heavy competition from the other broadcast networks.  That's even slightly higher than their premiere last year in its old Monday night timeslot.

Much was talked about this move when CBS announced it.  After all, 'Big Bang Theory' was doing very well on Mondays and the show it was replacing, 'Survivor', had been dominating its timeslot for year on Thursday nights.  However, 'Survivor' has handily won it's timeslot each of the first 2 weeks in its new home on Wednesdays at 8.  

'The Mentalist' on CBS was the nights highest rated show, drawing 15.3 million viewers.  Over on NBC, 'The Apprentice' continued to struggle, pulling in only 3.8 million viewers. 

'Lost' stars to reunite for new series

'Lost' creator JJ Abrams is re-teaming with two of the stars of his hit ABC series.

Terry O'Quinn who played John Locke and Michael Emerson who played Benjamin Linus will be starring in a new pilot for NBC. 

The show, tentatively titled 'Odd Jobs' is being described as a comedic drama,  and would likely see the two actors starring as ex-black-ops agents. NBC has “committed” to a pilot of the program. 

Josh Appelbaum and Andre Nemec, who worked with Abrams on the series 'Alias' will write the pilot for Warner Brothers and Bad Robot Productions.

'Glee' scores big for Fox, impacts entire night

After a disastrous showing with 'Lone Star', Fox rebounded in a big way with the season premiere of 'Glee.'

'Glee' scored big, being the highest rated show of the night, drawing 12.3 million viewers and a 5.5 rating.  It was the second highest rated episode of the series ever and it was up 57% from last years premiere.

The news was not so good for Fox other entries on last nights schedule.  'Raising Hope' and 'Running Wilde,' the two comedies that the network launched last night, failed to draw decent numbers even with the great lead-in.

Glee's impact was felt across every network.  NCIS, Dancing With The Stars, and The Biggest Loser all saw significant declines in their ratings opposite 'Glee.'

NCIS was down 19% from last seasons premiere, The Biggest Loser was down 24% from last season's premiere, and even ABC powerhouse 'DWTS' was down 3% from last years 2nd night premiere.  

'The Event' and 'Hawaii Five-0' debut to big ratings, DWTS destroys the competition

Last night was the first official night of the fall TV season and one of the busiest TV nights in recent memory.  The ratings numbers are in and to no ones surprise, ABC's 'Dancing With The Stars' was the nights highest rated show. 

DWTS scored a 5.0 rating and was watched by 21 million viewers, blowing away the competition.  This was a 22% increase of last years premiere.
Over on NBC,  the much talked about premiere of  'The Event' opened big as well.  The conspiracy drama drew 11.2 million viewers and 3.7 rating, coming within a tenth of a point of the highly touted 'Hawaii Five-0' reboot (13.8, 3.8), which debuted solidly for CBS.  'Chuck' opened the night for the peacock network with 6.1 million viewers and a 2.1 rating.

Probably the biggest surprise of the night came from Fox.  Their critically acclaimed drama, 'Lone Star' bombed.  Drawing only 4.1 million viewers and 1.3 rating.  'Lone Star' ratings dropped 68% from its lead in, 'House,' which drew a solid 10.5 million viewers and 4.1 rating.

HBO Renews Boardwalk Empire

HBO has renewed 'Boardwalk Empire' for a 2nd season after just one episode. 

The series debuted with a 4.8 rating, making it the highest rated HBO series since the 'Deadwood' premiere in 2004.

Michael Lombardo, President of HBO Programming, released a statement, “All the ingredients aligned for this one, from Mark Wahlberg and Steve Levinson’s initial pitch, to Martin Scorsese’s enormous contributions as director and executive producer, to the genius of Terry Winter and the expertise of Tim Van Patten, to a stellar cast led by Steve Buscemi,” said Lombardo.  “The response from the media and our viewers has been nothing short of amazing.”

'Boardwalk Empire'  is set in Atlantic City at the dawn of Prohibition, when the sale of alcohol became illegal throughout the United States.

Hayden Moss wins Big Brother 12

Hayden Moss was crowned the winner of Big Brother 12 last night in the live 2 hour season finale on CBS.

The 24 year old college student and former baseball player from Tempe, AZ took home the $500,000 grand prize via a 4-3 jury vote over Lane Elenburg.  Elenburg, a 24 year old oil rig salesman from Decatur, TX,  received $50,000 as the runner up.

Hayden dominated by both winning several competitions and forming bonds with the other houseguests while always staying loyal to The Brigade alliance, which was formed on the second day in the house.

He defeated Elenburg in the final round of a three-part Head of Household contest, which allowed him to pick Elenburg to battle against for his four jury votes.

Enzo "The Meow Meow" Palumbo, a trash-talking 32-year-old insurance adjuster from Bayonne, N.J., became the seventh member of the jury and cast the deciding vote between his alliance partners for Moss.

Hayden received votes from evicted houseguests Ragan Fox, Kathy Hillis, Matt Hoffman, and Enzo Palumbo, while Lane received votes from Britney Haynes, Rachel Reilly, and Brendon Villegas.

After Hayden's win was announced, host Julie Chen revealed that Britney Haynes, a 22 year old hotel sales manager from Huntington, AR was the winner of the "America's Favorite Houseguest" viewer vote and was awarded $25,000.  Haynes has lost her home in a fire earlier in the day on Wednesday.

CBS orders another season of 'Big Brother'

With the season finale of 'Big Brother's' 12th season just hours away, CBS announced that the summer reality show has been renewed for a 13th season.

The current edition posted year-to-year increases, up five percent in viewers (7.64 million versus 7.26 million), four percent in adults 18-49 (2.7 rating/09 share versus 2.6/08), 10 percent in adults 18-34 (2.3/08 versus 2.1/07) and three percent in adults 25-54 (3.2/09 versus 3.1/09).

“Big Brother is our summer hero,” said CBS’ Jennifer Bresnan, executive vice president, alternative programming, in a statement.  “Every year, our producers deliver innovative twists and turns, consistently evolving this proven franchise and engaging one of the most loyal and interactive fan bases on television and online.”

The two-hour finale, in which Lane, Enzo and Hayden will compete for the $500,000 prize, will air tonight following the premiere of 'Survivor: Nicaragua.'

Jennifer Lopez signs 1 year, $12 million dollar deal as American Idol judge

TMZ has confirmed ... Jennifer Lopez has signed a 1-year deal with 'American Idol' for a little more than $12 million -- this according to sources connected with the show.

This rounds out the 3 judge panel for the upcoming 10th season.  Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Lopez will join returning judge Randy Jackson.

Lopez is expected to be at the judges table for auditions next week.

Tonights TV Pick

Sons of Anarchy - 10 pm - FX

Jax Teller (Charlie Hunnam) still finds his loyalties divided in the third season of this popular FX series -- between the renegade motorcycle club founded by his violent parents and his hope of giving his son Abel a less chaotic upbringing than his own. Meanwhile, The Sons grapple with a host of rivals contesting their power, as well as other foes on both sides of the law -- from the ATF to the vicious, racist League of American Nationalists.

Emmy Winners!

Great show last night!  Jimmy Fallon was fantastic.  My only disappointment comes from the lack of recognition for 'Lost.'  This being the final time the show will be nominated for anything, I was hoping it would get some awards.  Most notably, I was really pulling for Matthew Fox.    But nevertheless, it was a good night for TV and all the winners were well deserved.  Here is a list of the major category winners

   
DRAMA SERIES   
Mad Men
   
ACTOR IN A DRAMA   
Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad
   
ACTRESS IN A DRAMA   
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer
   
SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A DRAMA   
Aaron Paul, Breaking Bad
   
SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA    
Archie Panjabi, The Good Wife
   
COMEDY SERIES    
Modern Family
   
ACTOR IN A COMEDY    
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory
   
ACTRESS IN A COMEDY 
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie
   
SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY   
Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family
   
SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY  
Jane Lynch, Glee
   
MINISERIES   
The Pacific
   
MADE FOR TELEVISION MOVIE    
Temple Grandin
   
ACTOR IN A MINISERIES OR TV MOVIE   
Al Pacino, You Don't Know Jack
   
ACTRESS IN A MINISERIES OR TV MOVIE   
Claire Danes, Temple Grandin
   
VARIETY, MUSIC OR COMEDY SERIES   
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
   
REALITY COMPETITION PROGRAMME   
Top Chef

My Emmy Predictions!

TV's biggest night is upon us!   Tomorrow night the Emmy's will be presented and I wanted to weigh in on who I think will walk away with statuettes.

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

My pick to win in this category is Jane Lynch from 'Glee.'  In my opinion, this really is a slam dunk.  Lynch's performance as Sue Sylvester was by far the funniest performance for any actress this season.  

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

Very tough category, possibly the toughest of the night.  But i'm going to predict that Eric Stonestreet as Cameron from 'Modern Family' will be the winner here.     I wouldn't be surprised to see the other 'Modern Family' guys take this one either, but Stonestreet's hilariously understated performance was the best on TV's best comedy.

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Well I think this category belongs to 'Mad Men.'    Christina Hendricks is going to be my choice.  Between her and Elizabeth Moss in this category, both were fine performances.  However,  I think Hendricks was a just a tad better this year.

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Another tough category here, any other year I might say that Aaron Paul from 'Breaking Bad' would be the sure winner here.  But with this being 'Lost' final season, I think the academy is going to show it some love.  I'm predicting that Terry O'Quinn's amazing dual performance as John Locke and The Man in Black will take home the gold.


Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series


This category is a complete toss up in my opinion.  I think Toni Collette is going to come away the winner for her performance on 'The United States of Tara.'  As much as I love Tina Fey, I really think this was an off year for '30 Rock' and I hope the academy decide to recognize someone else.


Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series

Another tough category.  I'm hoping that academy decides to give someone besides Alec Baldwin the award for a change.  I'm going to go with Jim Parsons from 'The Big Bang Theory.'  His performance as Sheldon is quite possibly the best comedic performance on TV.


Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series

I would love to see Connie Britton come away the winner here.  Her work in 'Friday Night Lights' has long been overlooked.  But I don't think thats going to happen. Julianna Margulies is the favorite in most peoples minds, but I'm going to go with Glenn Close from 'Damages.'  Her rock solid performance as Patty Hewes is just too good to be overlooked.  


Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series

OK, well in this category,  Bryan Cranston will be tough to beat.  But remember what I said about 'Lost' getting some love this year?   Matthew Fox as Jack was the heart and soul of that show and it was really about time he was nominated.  I think he goes home a winner, and well deserved.  Anyone who watched 'Lost' this year will never forget Fox's incredibly touching and heartfelt performance in the finale.


Outstanding Comedy Series

Lots of buzz surrounding 'Glee' in this category.  But I think it would be a travesty if 'Modern Family' didn't win.  It was easily the funniest show on TV this season.  No show delivered more laughs week after week.  It deserves to win.

Outstanding Drama Series

In my opinion, no other show delivered better acting, and better writing week after week, year after year, than 'Lost.'  In it's much talked about final season, 'Lost' still delivered.    At times it made us laugh, at times it made us cry.  But it always made us think, and it consistently entertained us.  This incredible show will be sorely missed.    This will be the last chance the academy can honor this show, and I think it will with a win here.

Enjoy the show tomorrow night everyone.  It should be fun!

'Idol' Producers say J Lo will not be a judge

American Idol producers have said that Jennifer Lopez is no longer in the running to become a judge on the next season of the show, a source told People magazine.

“Her demands got out of hand,” says the source. “Fox had just had enough.”

No word on who the producers will focus on next, however Mariah Carey has expressed interest in joining the show.

Breaking Bad will not return until July 2011. Ineligible for next years Emmy's.

AMC has announced that 'Breaking Bad' will not return for it's 4th season until July 2011.  As a result the show will not be eligible for next year’s Emmy Awards.

AMC plans to put up mini-episodes on the web early next year to bridge the gap.  "I, for one, am eager to make these little interstitials important," Bryan Cranston says. "I don't want them to be simply filler or recap, but something that actually moves the storyline forward. If we're going to do it, it ought to be a real part of the larger show."

"I think what AMC is thinking here is there will be less competition for us -- particularly from the broadcast networks -- if we launch our season during the summer than if we come back again like we did this time in March," Cranston said.

Ellen Degeneres, Kara DioGuardi out at American Idol. New judges rumored.

In some surprising news, the American Idol search for a new judge just grew by 2 more. 

Ellen Degeneres has quit her position after only 1 season and Kara DioGuardi has been fired.

Ellen, who became a full-time judge on the show during its ninth season, said  “A couple months ago, I let FOX and the American Idol producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me.  I told them I wouldn’t leave them in a bind and that I would hold off on doing anything until they were able to figure out where they wanted to take the panel next. It was a difficult decision to make, but my work schedule became more than I bargained for.”

DeGeneres adds, “I also realized this season that while I love discovering, supporting and nurturing young talent, it was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings. I loved the experience working on Idol and I am very grateful for the year I had, I am a huge fan of the show and will continue to be.” 

In the same statement, Idol creator and executive producer Simon Fuller says, “I loved Ellen’s passion for the artists and her nurturing skills. She brought honesty and optimism to our judging panel and I will miss her greatly.”

DioGuardi was about to enter her 3rd season as a judge but she has been told by producers that she will not be returning.

According to reports, the show will be returning to a 3 judge format. Insiders say the panel has already been decided and will consist of Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, and Aerosmith front-man Steven Tyler.  

Linda Hamilton joins the cast of 'Chuck'

'Terminator' star Linda Hamilton is joining the cast of 'Chuck.'

For Season 4, Hamilton will play a recurring guest-star role as Mary Bartowski, who vanished mysteriously from the life of Chuck ( Zachary Levi) when he was a boy.

"Hamilton will appear throughout the season, leading Chuck to discover that her life was shrouded in secrets," according to a news release. "She was a spy, a CIA agent ... and that's just the beginning."

Hamilton, 53, is best known for originating the role of Sarah Connor in the "Terminator" films, but she also starred in the 1980s hit "Beauty and the Beast" on CBS.

DirecTV saves 'Damages'

Sony Pictures Television and satellite broadcaster DirecTV have reached an agreement that will save the legal drama 'Damages,' the low-rated but critically acclaimed legal drama starring Glenn Close as cutthroat lawyer Patty Hewes. The show, which had run on the FX cable channel for the last three years and garnered several Emmy Awards, will move to DirecTV's 101 Network.  The deal is for 2 seasons of 10 episodes each.

Unlike DirecTV's deal with 'Friday Night Lights','Damages' will air exclusively on DirecTV and FX will not rebroadcast the new episodes.

However, if you are a 'Damages' fan but do not have DirecTV, you don't have to subscribe just yet. New episodes won't start airing until late 2011 -- at the earliest. The 101 Network will also have reruns of the first three seasons of "Damages" starting next year.

“We’re excited to partner with Sony Pictures Television as we breathe new life into this outstanding drama,” Patty Ishimoto, general manager of The 101 Network and vice president of entertainment for DirecTV, said in a statement.  “It’s a win for our customers because only they will be able to see these new episodes and another great step forward for DirecTV as we continue to build our growing portfolio of exclusive, award-winning programming.”

In a statement, John Langraf, president and general manager of FX Networks, who also heads FX Productions, had this to say: “FX was very proud to have developed one of the best scripted series on television, but in order to have a future, the show needed DIRECTV and we are thrilled they stepped in.... Sony Pictures Television is a great production partner and we at FX Productions are excited for these next two seasons.”

Melina Kanakeredes quits CSI: NY

'CSI: NY' star Melina Kanakeredes has decided to leave the hit series that she has been with since it premiered in 2004.

"We hoped Melina would return to 'CSI: NY' for another season, but we respect her decision to move on," said CBS Television Network and CBS Television Studios in a joint statement. "Her amazing talent and invaluable contribution to the success of the series are greatly appreciated and will not be forgotten. She will forever remain a friend to the network and studio and we wish her the very best."

In her own statement, Kanakaredes said, “I made some amazing and lifelong friendships during my six seasons on CSI: NY, and I will treasure them forever.”

CBS declined further comment, but it has been reported the Kanakeredes contract had expired and she was offered a new contract.  It was also rumored that her pay was being cut.  Kanakeredes turned down the contract and opted to move on.  CBS has said that her final episode has already aired.

Actress Sela Ward is the front runner to replace Kanakaredes.

PrimeTime Emmy Nominations announced!

OK, so the 2009-2010 PrimeTime Emmy Nominations were announced this morning.  Some surprises, and in my opinion, some notable snubs too.  Here is the list of nominees for the major categories:

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series 

Jane Lynch - 'Glee'
Kristen Wiig - 'Saturday Night Live'
Jane Krakowski - '30 Rock'
Julie Bowen - 'Modern Family'
Sofia Vergara - 'Modern Family'
Holland Taylor - 'Two and a Half Men'

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

Chris Colfer - 'Glee'
Neil Patrick Harris - 'How I Met Your Mother'
Jesse Tyler Ferguson - 'Modern Family'
Jon Cryer - 'Two and a Half Men'
Eric Stonestreet - 'Modern Family'
Ty Burrell - 'Modern Family'

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Sharon Gless - 'Burn Notice'
Christine Baranski - 'The Good Wife'
Christina Hendricks - 'Mad Men'
Rose Byrne - 'Damages'
Archie Panjabi - 'The Good Wife'
Elisabeth Moss - 'Mad Men'

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

John Slattery - 'Mad Men'
Aaron Paul - 'Breaking Bad'
Martin Short - 'Damages'
Terry O’ Quinn - 'Lost'
Michael Emerson - 'Lost'
Andre Braugher - 'Men of a Certain Age'

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

Lea Michele - 'Glee'
Tina Fey - '30 Rock'
Toni Collette - 'The United States of Tara'
Julia Louis-Dreyfus - 'The New Adventures of Old Christine'
Edie Falco - 'Nurse Jackie'
Amy Poehler - 'Parks and Recreation'

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

Larry David - 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'
Alec Baldwin - '30 Rock'
Matthew Morrison - 'Glee'
Steve Carell - 'The Office'
Jim Parsons - 'The Big Bang Theory'
Tony Shalhoub - 'Monk' 

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series

Julianna Margulies - 'The Good Wife'
Mariska Hargitay - 'Law & Order: SVU'
Glenn Close - 'Damages'
Kyra Sedgwick - 'The Closer'
January Jones - 'Mad Men'
Connie Britton - 'Friday Night Lights'

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series

Jon Hamm - 'Mad Men'
Kyle Chandler - 'Friday Night Lights'
Bryan Cranston - 'Breaking Bad'
Hugh Laurie - 'House'
Michael C. Hall - 'Dexter'
Matthew Fox - 'Lost'

Outstanding Reality Show Competition
  
Project Runway
Top Chef
Amazing Race
American Idol
Dancing With The Stars

Outstanding Reality Show Host

Ryan Seacrest - 'American Idol'
Phil Keoghan - 'Amazing Race'
Tom Bergeron - 'Dancing With The Stars'
Heidi Klum - 'Project Runway'
Jeff Probst - 'Survivor' 

Outstanding Comedy Series 

Glee
Modern Family
Curb Your Enthusiasm
30 Rock
Nurse Jackie
The Office

Outstanding Drama Series 

Lost
Breaking Bad
Dexter
Mad Men
True Blood
The Good Wife

Now there were some big surprises and some big snubs.  The Academy really missed the boat on some of these.  First and foremost, the omission of Katey Sagal in the Supporting Actress category for 'Sons of Anarchy is a travesty.  Ed O'Neill not being nominated  for 'Modern Family' was a big snub too, especially when the show got 5 acting nominations and he was left out.   Maybe the Academy doesn't like 'Married with Children?'  Also, excluding 'Survivor' from Best Reality Show is an absolute joke.  'American Idol' had its worst season yet and it still beats out 'Survivor' for a nomination, when 'Survivor' had arguably it's 2 best editions???  I'm also really surprised that 'The Big Bang Theory' didn't get more nominations.  And I was also disappointed to see shows like 'Southland,' 'Chuck,' and 'Parenthood' not get recognized in the major categories, while some of the same people continue to get nominations.  People like Tony Shalhoub and Alec Baldwin.  Both are very good in their respective roles, but I would like to see some new people in there.  '30 Rock' had a down year, so I was really surprised to see it get as many noms as it did. 

I'll be pulling for 'Lost' to win big this year.  Matthew Fox finally gets a long deserved nomination, his first.  Elizabeth Mitchell, once a regular on the show, received a nomination in the Guest Actress in a Drama Series category for her role as Juliet.  It was a great show that had a great final season, and it deserves all the accolades it can get.  The show received 12 nominations, the most since it's first groundbreaking season.

Here was the tally:

'Glee' - 19 Nominations
'Mad Men'- 17 nominations
'30 Rock' - 15 nominations (This is a bit of a head-scratcher.  It wasn't a good season for 30 Rock at all.)
'Modern Family' - 14 nominations
'Lost' - 12 nominations
'SNL'- 12 nominations (SNL breaks the record for the most nominations in TV history with 126, ER held the record with 124 until today)
'The Good Wife' - 9 nominations

This year's most nominated program? HBO's World War II epic 'The Pacific,' produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, with a whopping 24 noms. That, however, does not set a record. The aged miniseries 'Roots' still holds that one, with 37 noms.

So what do you think?  Who got snubbed?  Who shouldn't have been nominated?

My Emmy Wish List Part 6: Best Drama Series

In the final part of my 6 part series on who I would like to see nominated for this years Prime Time Emmy's we're going to talk about Best Drama Series. 

Before we go into that, many people have said "How could you leave out _________?" , when discussing the other categories.  The whole idea behind this series was to give my ideal list of who I would like to see nominated.  I realize that some actors/shows will be nominated.  If I named everyone I wanted, the list would be 2 pages long.  These are more the people who may have a longer shot this year to be nominated and who haven't been recognized as much in recent years. 

With that being said, here is my wish list for Best Drama Series.

Lost - 'Lost' hasn't been ignored over the years. It has won twice in the Best Supporting Actor category, and a Best Drama win in 2005.  However it does feel that it just hasn't got the Emmy recognition that it deserves.  I've said it many times before, 'Lost' consistently proved that it had the best acting and writing on TV, week after week.  This is the final go-round for this amazing series and I hope the academy gives it the proper recognition.

Parenthood - For my money, this was the best new drama series on this season.  An amazing ensemble cast, led by Peter Krause and Lauren Graham, and a very good writing team bring this series to life.  You can say that there are better shows out there, but none with more heart than 'Parenthood.'

Southland - When NBC decided to cancel this fine drama series in order to move Jay Leno to 10 pm, many eyebrows were raised.  The show had garnered much praise from critics and fans alike.  TNT quickly came in and decided to pick it up.  What they got was a gritty, well produced, police drama reminiscent of great shows like 'NYPD Blue' and 'Homicide.'  I'd like to see it get some recognition.

So the nominations will be out tomorrow, July 8th.  I hope many of the people and shows I have discussed in this series have something to be happy about.  There are others that I haven't mentioned that I would be perfectly fine with getting some accolades, such as 'The Big Bang Theory' for best comedy series, Regina King for Best Actress in a Drama series for 'Southland', or 'Justified' for best drama series.  And I'd also like to add here that in the Best Reality Competition Series category that 'Survivor' should win hands down.  After 20 seasons, it produced it's best and most exciting season yet with Heroes vs. Villains.  The granddaddy of all reality shows proved why it is still king.   'Amazing Race' better not win again this year.

Whoever is nominated tomorrow, there will definitely be alot to talk about.  I'll let you know who and what were recognized when the nominations are announced.

My Emmy Wish List Part 5: Best Comedy Series

So now we're up to my wish list for Best Comedy Series.  I know 30 Rock will be nominated, thats a lock.  Quite frankly it shouldn't be.  30 Rock did not have a great year.  Here is a few that I would like to see nominated.

Modern Family - To put it simply, 'Modern Family' is the best comedy on TV right now, hands down.  I'd be very surprised if it was overlooked.  It deserves to be nominated and I think it will be.  No other show packed in more laughs per episode than this show did.


Glee - For 'Glee' to do what it did was not easy.  To make a musical TV show a smash hit should have been a very hard thing to do.  But that's just what they did.  I think 'Glee' will get a ton of nominations, and it should.  It takes risks that pay off and the risks should be rewarded.


Chuck - 'Chuck' is not your typical comedy.  Like 'Glee' it is of the hour-long variety.  It is not a sitcom.  It mixes dramatic elements with great action sequences and give some really good laughs too.  It is the most consistently entertaining show on TV right now.  Hopefully it gets its due.


Next we'll cover the Best Drama Series.

My Emmy Wish List Part 4: Best Actress

In the 4th part of My Emmy Wish List, I'm going to cover my choices of who I'd like to see recognized in the Best Actress categories.

Best Actress in a Comedy Series

Kaley Cuoco - 'Big Bang Theory' - Now that this series is starting to get recognized not only in the ratings, but also with awards, the ensemble will start to get recognized as well.  Cuoco's Penny is the perfect companion to our 2 nerdy heroes.  The best episodes seem to be the one's where she plays a big part.  This should be a no-brainer.

Lea Michele - 'Glee' - I think 'Glee' will be huge at the Emmy's this year.  Double digit nominations.  It just seems like the type of show that the Academy will fawn over.  If they do, it will be tough to leave out Michele.  Her character of Rachel is the backbone of the glee club and the backbone of the series.  


Best Actress in a Drama Series

Katey Sagal - 'Sons of Anarchy' - No actress on TV this year gave a better performance than Katey Sagal on 'Sons of Anarchy'.  SOA could be a dark horse to get a whole bunch of nominations, and Sagal's role proved what a great actress she is.  The brutal rape scene couldn't have been easy to film.  She has also shown Emmy voters a broad range with her work on 'Lost' as well.  I'm really pulling for Sagal to get noticed this year.

Julianna Marguiles - 'The Good Wife' - Past Winner Marguiles is probably a shoo-in to get another nomination this year.  'Wife' is a critical smash and Marguiles is the glue holding the show together.    She has already earned a Golden Globe for her role as Alicia Florrick.  

Glenn Close - 'Damages' - I know that Glenn Close has already won for her role as ruthless attorney Patty Hewes, but she just can't be overlooked.  Her performance is that good.  With this likely being the last season for 'Damages' this will be the last shot for her to win for this role.  

My Emmy Wish List Part 3: Best Actor

OK, so now we're up to Best Actor.  Always a tough category, so let's get to it.




Best Actor in a Comedy Series 

Jim Parsons - 'Big Bang Theory' - Jim Parsons performance week after week as Sheldon Cooper is probably the best male comedic performance on TV.  Parson got his first nomination last year, and this year he deserves a win.  'Bang' has become a ratings powerhouse this year and that should help Parson in this race.

Zachary Levi - 'Chuck' - Levi is probably the most underrated comedic actor on TV, to go along with the most underrated show on TV.  'Chuck' week in and week out delivers consistently entertaining and quality TV and Levi's performance and Chuck Bartowski is the primary reason. He showed all kinds of range this year. He played dramatic when he went dark and thought he killed a man to protect the woman he loved. He also played comedic when he and Yvonne Strahovski did their best 'Hart to Hart' impersonations.  It's about time 'Chuck' was recognized for the excellent show that it is.

Best Actor in a Drama Series

Hugh Laurie - 'House' - This is a slam dunk.  Laurie had his best season as Dr. House.  His performance in the 2 hour premiere alone should win him the Emmy.    Laurie has been nominated 4 out of 5 years and has yet to win.  Quite frankly, that's a travesty for one of the finest actors on TV today portraying one of TV's greatest characters.

Kiefer Sutherland - '24' - Sutherland is a past winner.  He won in 2006 for his role as the tortured soul and American Hero Jack Bauer.  This would make it his 8th nomination for that role, 6 for the series and one for the TV movie, '24: Redemption.'
Since this is the last season for '24', this will be the last chance for Emmy voters to show Jack Bauer some love.

Matthew Fox - 'Lost' - This is a tough one for me.  I really think Hugh Laurie should win this category this year.  But Matthew Fox, in my opinion, has deserved Emmy recognition for several years now.  This season, the final season for 'Lost', he delivered his best, most emotional performance yet as the reluctant hero Dr. Jack Shepherd.  Since this will be the last go-round for this character, I would love to see him nominated and win.  I think the odds are against him, but this is my wish list right? As with '24' Emmy voters have this last chance to give kudos to one of the greatest shows ever on TV and it's leading man.

Best Actress will be next!

My Emmy Wish List Part 2: Best Supporting Actress

So here we are with the 2nd part of my Emmy Wish List.  Remember this is my wish list, so these are the actresses who I would like to see get recognized for their work this year.

Here we go with who I think should get nominations in the Best Supporting Actress categories.

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Jane Lynch - 'Glee' - This should be a slam dunk.  Lynch's performance as Sue Sylvester has been the best comedic performance on TV this season.  No doubt she gets nominated and will probably win.


Julie Bowen & Sofia Vergara - 'Modern Family' - This seasons best new comedy, and probably best comedy overall boasted two great performances.  Julie Bowen's portrayal of Claire Dunphy is understated and very funny.  She more than holds her own among a cast of scene stealers. Vergara is definitely the funniest of the supporting women on this series, and shows great comic timing in her role as Gloria.  This should also be a no-brainer.  The funniest actress from the funniest series on TV.


Yvonne Strahovski - 'Chuck' - Yvonne Strahovski is in a good position.  Even though she will be most likely be considered in the Supporting category, she is the lead actress on 'Chuck.'  She also gets to do what other actresses in this category do not get to do.  That is show her versatility in playing a role that is dramatic, silly, and romantic.

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

There are way to many in this category to name.  This has really been a great year for dramatic actresses on TV. 

Annie Wersching - '24' -  As agent Renee Walker, Wersching played it all this season.  She played the agent with a tortured past who was forced to relive it.  Then she played a romantic side and finally her stunning death scene.  It was really a tour de force for Wersching this season.

Lauren Graham - 'Parenthood' - Another very good actress from a series with a great cast.  Graham more than holds her own among a fine ensemble.  This role of Sarah was vacated by Maura Tierney after the first episodes were filmed and Graham stepped in, and the episodes were reshot.  This was a tough position for any actress to be in and she shined.

Evangeline Lilly - 'Lost' - The finest drama on TV for the past 6 years has been 'Lost.'  Lilly has long been ignored by the academy and this will be her last chance for a nomination.  Her performance this season as Kate was probably not as good as in recent years, but she deserves to recognized for her fine work on this amazing show.

There really are more actresses in this category that should be reognized.  Rose Byrne from 'Damages' and Lisa Edelstein from 'House' to name a couple.

Next time I'll cover Best Actor.

My Emmy Wish List: Best Supporting Actor

OK, so the Primetime Emmy nominations are coming out on July 8th.  So I thought I would give my two cents on who I think should be nominated this year.  We're going to cover the Supporting Actor categories today.  Remember these are who I would like to see nominated not necessarily who I think will be nominated.

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

Adam Baldwin - 'Chuck' - For those of you who watch 'Chuck' this shouldn't come as a surprise.  Adam Baldwin's character of Casey is really the best character on the show.  Baldwin really comes through week after week with a very subtle and underrated comedic performance. 

Ty Burrell, Eric Stonestreet, and Ed O'Neill - 'Modern Family' - I think this category will be 'Modern Family's' to lose, and it should be.  As Phil Dunphy, the uncool dad, Burrell delivers a gem of a performance every week.  Deadpan delivery and his restraint from making the character too over the top really deserve to be recognized.  Stonestreet's episode where he played Fizbo the clown, should alone get him nominated, and Ed O'Neil is finally getting props after brilliantly playing Al Bundy for so many years and not being noticed.  His turn as the patriarch of the family was truly one of the highlights of the 09-10 TV season. 


Chris Colfer - 'Glee' -  This is a tough one.  Simply because, Colfer's performance as Kurt, is a better fit for the drama category.  But since 'Glee' is being categorized as a comedy, this is where he will compete.  His portrayal of the gay glee club member, who has issues with his Dad really drove his storyline this season, was played so heartfelt and so touching, that he will be tough to ignore.  That being said, my guess is he doesn't get nominated, knowing how the academy does things.


Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Aaron Paul - 'Breaking Bad' -  Paul is probably the frontrunner in this category.  Last year he was basically an unknown on an virtually unknown cable show.  But this year the show has garnered lots of a attention and with it, so has he.   His nomination is a lock.

Terry O'Quinn,  Michael Emerson, and Nestor Carbonell - 'Lost' -   This really should be the year of 'Lost.'  Past winner, O'Quinn, was nothing short of mesmerizing this year on 'Lost' final season.  Whenever his character was on screen, you couldn't turn away.  But that's nothing new with O'Quinn.  From a show that conistently, in my opinion, boasts the best acting and writing on TV, he stands out as the best of the best.  Playing dual roles is tough for any actor, and O'Quinn made it look easy.  Michael Emerson's portrayal of Ben went from being utterly creepy in season past to being sympathetic and touching this season.  Carbonell wasn't really central to most of the final season of  'Lost,' but for one week, the show was all about him. That episode, "Ab Aeterno," was as generous an acting showcase as any supporting player this season got. He got to speak a foreign language, stare down death and totally carry one of the most anticipated and respected episodes of the 'Lost' season.


Martin Short - 'Damages' - Short threw aside his comedic persona, and took a heavy dramatic turn on 'Damages' this season.  The slimy lawyer he played was so memorable and so believable.  This should be an easy nod, even with the competition in the category.

Andre Braugher - 'Men of a Certain Age' - Braugher is a two time Emmy winner, for 'Homicide' and 'Thief,' but this role as an aging car salesman struggling to climb out of his father's shadow was brilliant.  This might be a tough one for the academy to remember since 'Men's' season ended a while ago, but the academy loves Braugher so hopefully they won't forget.  My guess is he also gets nominated for his guest spot on 'House.'


Next I'll cover Best Supporting Actress.

Glee News! John Stamos joins the cast, Finale scores big ratings

Those of you who watched last nights 'Glee' finale heard Emma mention that she was now in a relationship with her dentist.

Well the role of that dentist has now been filled with none other than John Stamos.  Glee executive producer Brad Falchuk confirmed to E! that Stamos will definitely be joining the cast in season 2.  However, for how many episodes seems unclear at this point.  The character will be a recurring character throughout the season.

The story line will surely bring him into conflict with Matthew Morrison's Will Schuester, the glee-club director who fans are hoping finally gets together with Emma for real. Word is that Will and Stamos' characters will find themselves butting heads — and vocal cords — during a sing-off next season. Stamos might give Morrison a run for his money, as the "Full House" star has performed with the Beach Boys and appeared on Broadway in productions of "Cabaret" and "Bye Bye Birdie."

In other 'Glee' news, last nights finale drew 10.9 million viewers and a 4.6 preliminary adults 18-49 rating. That gave "Glee" the biggest rating for a new series finale this season and marked the show's best numbers without an "American Idol" lead-in. The ratings also came despite heavy competition from ABC's telecast of Game 3 of the NBA Finals.

'Golden Girls' star Rue McClanahan dies

Rue McClanahan, an Emmy Award-winning actress best known for her role as widowed Southern vixen Blanche Devereaux on the popular sitcom "The Golden Girls," died of a brain hemorrhage June 3 at New York-Presbyterian Hospital. She was 76.

Her manager, Barbara Lawrence, issued a statement regarding the news.  Lawrence's statement reads: "Rue McClanahan passed away this morning, June 3rd at 1:00 am at New York-Presbyterian Hospital.  She suffered a cerebral hemorrhage on Monday, May 31st.  She died peacefully with her son, Mark Bish, her sister, Dr. Melinda L. McClanahan and her nephew, Brendan Kinkade at her side."

"The Golden Girls" was broadcast on NBC from 1985 until 1992 and centered on four older women sharing a Miami home. McClanahan starred as the man-crazed Southern belle Blanche Devereaux. She co-starred with Bea Arthur, Betty White, and Estelle Getty.

McClanahan received an Emmy Award in 1987 for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her work on the sitcom.

McClanahan's other TV credits include "Maude," "Mama's Family," and the 'Golden Girls' spin-off "Golden Palace."

Hollywood Icon Dennis Hopper dies at 74

Dennis Hopper, whose 50-year film career spanned such classics as "Rebel Without a Cause," "Easy Rider," "Apocalypse Now," "Hoosiers," and "Blue Velvet" died Saturday following a battle with prostate cancer. He was 74.

The success of "Easy Rider," and the spectacular failure of his next film, "The Last Movie," fit the pattern for the talented but sometimes uncontrollable actor-director.   He was a two-time Academy Award nominee, and in March 2010, was honored with a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame.

In a more than five-decade acting career that was influenced early on by working with James Dean and studying at the Actors Studio, he made his film debut as one of the high school gang members who menace Dean in the 1955 classic "Rebel Without a Cause."

Hopper went on to appear in more than 115 films, including "Giant," "Cool Hand Luke," "Hang 'Em High," "True Grit," "Apocalypse Now," "The American Friend," "Rumble Fish," "Speed," "True Romance" and "Rivers Edge."

But it's his role as the long-haired, pot-smoking biker Billy opposite Peter Fonda's Wyatt (Captain America) in the hit movie "Easy Rider" that gave Hopper his most enduring claim to fame.

"The impact of 'Easy Rider,' both on the filmmakers and the industry as a whole, was no less than seismic," Peter Biskind wrote in his 1998 book "Easy Riders, Raging Bulls: How the Sex-Drugs-And-Rock 'N' Roll Generation Saved Hollywood."

The film’s success also opened the studio doors to a new generation of long-haired young film brats who would go on to re-energize American cinema in the ’70s. But Hopper will be remembered as much for what he accomplished onscreen as behind the camera. He leaves behind a string of indelible and daring performances.

Hopper was married five times and is survived by four children, including a six-year-old daughter, Galen, born to his fifth wife, Victoria Duffy. He filed for divorce in January from Duffy after 14 years of marriage.

Gary Coleman dies at 42

Gary Coleman, who soared to fame in the late 1970s as the child star of the hit sitcom "Diff'rent Strokes" and whose adult life became fodder for the tabloids, died Friday at a Utah hospital from a brain hemorrhage. He was 42.

Coleman died at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo after suffering an intracranial hemorrhage earlier this week, according to a statement from hospital spokeswoman Janet Frank.

A resident of Santaquin, Utah, he had been hospitalized Wednesday and lost consciousness the next day. He was taken off life support Friday afternoon with his family at his side, the hospital said.

Born with failed kidneys, Coleman had undergone two transplants by age 14 and his growth was permanently stunted by the side effects of dialysis medications.  Even those trademark chubby cheeks were thought perhaps to have been a side effect to the steroids taken to ward off transplant rejection.

As a child actor, Coleman made appearances on “Good Times” and “The Jeffersons” but he’s most famous for his role as Arnold Jackson on “Diff’rent Strokes,” which revolved around a wealthy white man who adopts two African-American children. Coleman played the younger brother, while Todd Bridges played Willis, the inspiration for Coleman’s catchphrase, “What’choo talkin’ ’bout, Willis?”

At the height of his TV series success, Coleman reportedly earned $64,000 per week and is said to have made some $18 million during his TV heyday.

That included income from movies such as "On the Right Track" and "Jimmy the Kid" and TV movies such as "The Kid With the Broken Halo" and "The Kid With the 200 I.Q." — as well as the animated series "The Gary Coleman Show."

Coleman is survived by his wife Shannon Price and his parents W.G. Coleman and Edmonia Sue Coleman.

Lee DeWyze is the new American Idol

The most lackluster season of American Idol came to a close last night, and underdog Lee DeWyze was crowned the winner over the favorite Crystal Bowersox.

Whether he actually deserved to win or not is another story altogether.  Personally, I think Crystal was the better singer, not even close.  However as we have learned in the past from watching Idol this isn't strictly a singing competition.  It's also about image.  Apprently viewers felt Lee's image was more Idol-like than Crystal's.

After host Ryan Seacrest revealed him as the winner, an emotional DeWyze performed his rendition of U2's "Beautiful Day" while sparklers and confetti rained down from the rafters at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles.
The finale also marked the end of Simon Cowell's nine-season run on the show as the often-critical and sometimes foul-tempered head judge many contestants both feared and respected.

"Idol" winners from previous seasons, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks and Kris Allen, took to the stage to give Cowell a musical sendoff, while former judge Paula Abdul returned to wish him well, saying that working with Cowell gave her "immeasurable joy."  "I've loved all the fun we had together. 'American Idol' is not going to be the same without you," she said.

"I didn't think I would be this emotional, but I genuinely am," Cowell said

LOST: A Perfect Ending to an Amazing Show

Well Lost ended last night with what was, in my opinion, the perfect ending.  It had it all.  It was sad, happy, funny, scary, very well written and well acted.  It was everything you could ask for from a series finale.

Now some people may not be satisfied with the resolution of the storyline.  I was. Regardless that this theory had been floating around since the beginning of the series, it didn't matter to me.  It was the way it was presented, and the way the story came to its end that I was happy with. 

The theory being that castaways were dead and in some sort of purgatory or limbo, and that our main character Jack, was the focal point.    He was the one that needed to complete his journey so he could move on.  He needed to "let go."  The Island world, we learned, absolutely mattered to the physical fate of the survivors. In my opinion, the events we saw on that island, actually happened to these characters.  And the Sideways world, an afterlife of some sort,  mattered because it was the culmination of the lives of the characters. It was a resolution to their spiritual existence, their souls.

Some fans will complain that the Sideways timeline was bogus, because the producers said long ago that Lost wasn't about Purgatory. In fact, this theory they refuted was that the Island was Purgatory, and it wasn't.   The Island events were real life, and the Sideways events were an afterlife in some way.  By doing it this way, the producers actually managed to find a way to discredit the purgatory theory, while still using it.  The Sideways events, was the purgatory that they themselves had created in order to find one another again, to reconnect one last time with the most important people in their lives before they could move on to the afterlife.

Not everyone is going to like how it ended.   If you watched this show for the characters, then you probably will love how it ended.  If you watched the show for the intricate plot, then you will probably not like the ending very much.  Many people will not like that some if not many questions went unanswered.  In my opinion, with a show like Lost, having unhappy people and unanswered questions at the end is unavoidable.   You are not going to please everyone, it's a fact.  Many of the BIG questions were answered, and many were left open to interpretation.

Certainly people have guessed that the series that began with Jack's eye opening would end with it closing. It made perfect sense that Jack, who was meant to die at the end of the original version of the Lost pilot, instead die at the end of the series. 

But here is where I think they made the perfect ending. As Jack staggered through the jungle, he eventually found himself laying in the very same spot where he awoke on the island in the pilot.  Vincent reappeared as he had in the pilot's first minutes as well.    Before Jack's eye closed for the final time, he saw a plane fly overhead with his friends safely on board.

The actors have to be given credit too.   All of their scenes of remembering the island in last nights finale were so well done.  I had said all through this series that it boasted the best acting on television and last night just enhanced my opinion of that.

As to things being left open to interpretation, that's fine with me.  If everything was answered and tied up in a neat little package, what would fans of the show talk and debate about?  Lost fans can talk and speculate and debate about this show for as long as they want now.  For Lost fans, thats a good thing.  It's a way that the show can live on.  If all answers were given, then the speculation and debate ends.  No one talks about the meaning of the end of MASH.  We all know what it meant.

Lost was about life, death, faith, and redemption.  It has always been theorized that the title of the show referred to characters souls and not them being physically lost.  Now we now that to be true.

What I am going to miss most about Lost is not the mythology or the many questions we got each week.  I'm going to miss these incredible characters and the journey they took to get to where they were in the finale.  Never has a show had such rich and well written characters.  That's what kept me tuning in every week.

LOST was an incredible experience for me as a TV viewer, and I'm so glad that I went along for the ride.