(ABC) KRISTIN CHENOWETH CELEBRATES BROADWAY NEXT WEEK ON ABC’S “DANCING WITH THE STARS”

October 20, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

The Emmy ® and Tony Award ®-Winning Singer & Actress Performs on Monday & Tuesday Night

Emmy ® and Tony Award ®-winning singer and actress Kristin Chenoweth joins “Dancing with the Stars” in celebrating Broadway with a night full of show tunes and performances by performing a medley of “Maybe This Time” and”I Could Have Danced All Night,” MONDAY, OCTOBER 24 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. On “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show,” Chenoweth takes to the ballroom stage again with a performance of “Lessons Learned” from her new album from Sony Records titled “Some Lessons Learned,” TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Emmy ®and Tony Award ® winner Kristin Chenoweth is an accomplished singer and actress of stage, television and film. She recently released her debut country album, “Some Lessons Learned.” She is known for her Tony Award-nominated turn as the original Glinda the Good Witch in Broadway’s “Wicked” and her show-stealing, Tony-winning performance in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” She recently received her second Emmy nomination for her role as April Rhodes on the hit series “Glee.” Chenoweth also earned an Emmy for her role as Olive Snook on ABC’s “Pushing Daisies.” Next she will star in the upcoming ABC series “GCB.”

Hosted by Tom Bergeron (“America’s Funniest Home Videos”) and Brooke Burke-Charvet (“Dancing with the Stars” Season Seven Champion), the celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which will be judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

“Dancing with the Stars” is the U.S. version of the international smash hit series, “Strictly Come Dancing.” This version is produced by BBC Worldwide Productions. Conrad Green serves as executive producer and Ashley Edens-Shaffer and Joe Sungkur are co-executive producers. Alex Rudzinski directs. “Dancing with the Stars” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.

About BBC Worldwide Productions:
BBC Worldwide Productions, led by Jane Tranter, is based in Los Angeles and develops and produces scripted and non-scripted projects for U.S. cable and broadcast networks, as well as digital platforms. The production company is responsible for the smash hit Dancing with the Stars (ABC), Top Gear (HISTORY), What Not to Wear (TLC) and Torchwood: Miracle Day (Starz). BBC Worldwide Productions sits within one of six core businesses that form BBC Worldwide, the main commercial arm and wholly-owned subsidiary of British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

Filed Under: American Entertainment News

NEXT WEEK ON DANCING WITH THE STARS (9/26 & 27)

September 23, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

ELEVEN REMAINING COUPLES HIT THE BALLROOM FOR THEIR
SECOND COMPETITIVE DANCE, ON ABC’S “DANCING WITH THE STARS”

Season’s First “Macy’s Stars of Dance” performance is Created by
Emmy ®Award-winning Marguerite Derricks on “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show”

Pop Sensation Demi Lovato and Irish Band The Script Perform

“Episode 1302 & 1302A” — Following last week’s electrifying season 13 premiere, the eleven remaining couples hit the ballroom floor for the second time, performing either the Jive or the Quickstep, on this week’s “Dancing with the Stars,” MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET), on ABC.

On TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), on “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show,” musical guest Demi Lovato returns to the ballroom to perform the hit single “Skyscraper” from her latest album, “Unbroken,” in a number choreographed by Emmy Award winner Wade Robson. The Script also grace the stage with a stellar live performance of their platinum selling hit single, “For the First Time,” off their sophomore album “Science & Faith,” and will be accompanied by “DWTS” returning pros Dmitry Chaplin and Chelsie Hightower. Also featured this week is the first “Macy’s Stars of Dance” performance of the season, with a number created by Emmy (r)Award-winning choreographer Marguerite Derricks, a piece inspired by the legendary Busby Berkeley. In addition, all nine male “DWTS” pros and troupe members will perform a thrilling number.

In the last few months Demi Lovato has been on fire. She’s hit the studio with an all-star list of collaborators including Timbaland, Jason Derulo, Ryan Tedder and Missy Elliot; the first single off “Unbroken,” “Skyscraper,” debuted at #1 on iTunes chart, #2 on the Billboard’s Hot Digital Singles chart, and #10 on the Billboard’s Hot 100. The singer and actress started in show business as a pre-teen and rose quickly. By the time she was 15 she was a bona fide TV star cultivating a promising singing career. In the late 2000s, while maintaining a rigorous TV and film shooting schedule, Lovato released two massively successful solo albums, “Don’t Forget” (2007) and “Here We Go Again” (2009); the former debuted at #2, the latter at #1. Her third solo LP, “Unbroken,” released September 20, 2011, showcases a collection of tracks that reveal a young woman with enough real life experience to appreciate the value of letting loose and enjoying herself. The songs run the gamut from epic ballad to cheeky pop power anthems. With the release of “Unbroken,” Lovato is focused on her immediate future and enjoying all that’s available to her, now that she’s back at the top of her game. The lead single, “Skyscraper,” has already reestablished her as a force to be reckoned with on the charts.

Hot off the heels of a #3 debut with their recent studio album, “Science & Faith,” and currently touring the U.S. on a string of sold out dates, The Script clearly have no plans to slow down. It’s been a rags to riches glory ride, an emotional rollercoaster, an all action, all-star blockbuster. Three young Dubliners, Danny O’Donoghue, Mark Sheehan and Glen Power, took on the world with music fashioned from the emotional detritus of their own hard lives, raised up by a love of pop, rock, hip hop and soul. In two years they’ve notched up a handful of hit singles around the world, including “Breakeven,” “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved” and “We Cry.” Their 2008 self-titled debut album, “The Script,” went to #1 in the UK and Ireland, with more than 2 million in sales worldwide. They’ve played stadium shows with music heroes U2 and Sir Paul McCartney, and to cap it all, “Breakeven” — which has already sold over 2 million downloads in the U.S alone — rewrote history here in America on Billboard’s Adult Pop Songs radio airplay chart to take the #1 spot, where the song completed a record-setting 36-week rise to the summit.

By evening’s end, one couple will be eliminated, as determined by a combination of the judges’ scores and viewers’ votes on dances performed on Monday’s performance show. Who among the eleven couples will be the second team to leave?

* DAVID ARQUETTE, actor and producer, and partner KYM JOHNSON.
* CHAZ BONO, author and activist, and partner LACEY SCHWIMMER.
* ELISABETTA CANALIS, model and actress, and partner VAL CHMERKOVSKIY.
* KRISTIN CAVALLARI, TV star, and partner MARK BALLAS.
* NANCY GRACE, TV host and journalist, and partner TRISTAN MACMANUS.
* ROBERT KARDASHIAN, reality star and partner CHERYL BURKE.
* CARSON KRESSLEY, television star and style guru, and partner ANNA TREBUNSKAYA.
* RICKI LAKE, talk show host and actress, and partner DEREK HOUGH.
* J.R. MARTINEZ, veteran and actor, and partner KARINA SMIRNOFF.
* CHYNNA PHILLIPS, singer, and partner TONY DOVOLANI.
* HOPE SOLO, World Cup star, and partner MAKSIM CHMERKOVSKIY.

Hosted by Tom Bergeron and Brooke Burke-Charvet, the celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which will be judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

Viewers may cast their votes for their favorite teams via phone on Monday night during and up to 30 minutes after the “Dancing with the Stars” performance shows. AT&T customers may also text message their votes by texting the word “VOTE” and entering the number that corresponds to the team they want to support (message and data rates may apply). AT&T will also offer customers exclusive mobile video footage of weekly backstage highlights to keep fans connected to some of their favorite couples all season long. Viewers may also vote online at www.abc.com starting from the opening of each episode on the East Coast with voting closing at 8:00 a.m. PT/11:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday mornings.

“Dancing with the Stars” is the U.S. version of “Strictly Come Dancing.” This version is produced by BBC Worldwide Productions. Conrad Green serves as executive producer and Ashley Edens-Shaffer and Joe Sungkur are co-executive producers. Alex Rudzinski directs. “Dancing with the Stars” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound.

Filed Under: American Entertainment News

CHAZ BONO SAYS HIS MOTHER, CHER, WAS “SHOCKED” BY HIS FIRST “DANCING WITH THE STARS” PERFORMANCE AND RESPONDS TO CRITICS TODAY ON “THE TALK,” WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

September 22, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

On His Mother, Cher’s, Reaction: “She was so proud. She cried when she saw it.”

http://www.cbs.com/daytime/the_talk/video/?pid=WNjKbpud40xEaOEqZpxo_DCWQTN5Gy0q&vs=Clips&play=true

Chaz Bono visited THE TALK, Wednesday, September 21, 2011, with his “Dancing with the Stars” partner Lacey Schwimmer, to talk about what it was like taking the stage for the first time and performing live this week. Plus, he revealed what his mom, Cher, thought of their performance and responds to negative critics who say that it’s confusing for children to see him as a contestant on the show. He and Lacey also reveal their strategy to stay in the game. Please see below for partial transcription of the interview which aired at 2:00-3:00 PM, ET; 1:00-2:00 PM, PT on the CBS Television Network.

Chaz on first ‘DWTS’ performance:

Chaz Bono: “I kind of felt like I was in a bubble, to be honest. I mean, I was just focusing on Lacey and remembering what to do.

Kris Jenner: “Were you counting?”

Chaz Bono: “I was counting a little bit.”

Lacey Schwimmer: “I was yelling at him, ‘Smile!’”

Chaz Bono: “I had little stupid things in my head like ‘pretty hands’ and ‘point foot here’ and that kind of stuff.”

On DWTS Controversy and facing critics who say it is confusing for children to watch:

Sara: “Now when ABC announced you were on the show, there was a lot of controversy, and some people said it would be confusing for children to watch you. So how do you feel about that? Do you have a response to that?”

Chaz Bono: “You know, no, not really. I think kids are really smart and very open minded, and so if you just explain things to them in an open way, they’re usually very understanding about it.”

Julie Chen: “There were some critics who came out, as I like to call them, the haters. When they came out, did it make you stronger? Did it make you say, ‘You know what? I wanted to win this thing before all those critics came out, but now I’m really going to kill it out there.’”

Chaz Bono: “You know, I think for both of us, neither of us paid attention to the critics. But the positive response we have gotten because of what the critics started has been so overwhelming that that’s been really inspirational. I want to do a good job for all the people who just have been so supportive of us.”

Sara Gilbert: “Is there part of you that feels if you could win this you’d help transgender kids out there?”

Chaz Bono: I think the longer I stay on, the more I can help my community, so I would love to win it but really I’m going to take it one show at a time and try to do my best and hope that I can stay on as long as possible, but I’m having a great time.”

On Cher’s reaction to him joining ‘DWTS’ and watching first performance:

Molly Shannon: “Your mother Cher is such a legendary performer. What was her reaction when you told her you were going to be on the show?”

Chaz Bono: “I think she was very supportive but a little surprised because I’m just not known as the performer guy in the family.”

Kris Jenner: “You know what I was thinking? I was sitting in the audience the last two nights and I was looking around in the little secret places thinking, ‘I know she’s here. Where is Cher?’ I really wanted her to come.”

Chaz Bono: “No, I think she will come, but she’s very sensitive and knows if she came the first night she could’ve overshadowed my performance and she didn’t want to do that.”

Sara Gilbert: “What did she think about your first dance together?”

Chaz Bono: “Pretty shocked. Yeah.”

Julie Chen: “Why was she shocked after your performance, because it was apparent to, I think, most people when you got out there that there is no doubt you have the Cher gene. You have the performer gene. Like, you really had it in your DNA to know how to be a showman. Did she call and say ‘I’m so proud’?”

Chaz Bono: “Oh yeah, she was so proud. She cried when she saw it. So yeah, she’s been so supportive, and I’ve been having really bad problems with my knees and ankles and she sent somebody over to work on me last night, which was really great because I do need all the help I can get at this point.”

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Filed Under: American Entertainment News

DANCING WITH THE STARS 1301A + MEET THE CAST (9/20)

September 19, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

MULTI-TALENTED GRAMMY® AND EMMY® AWARD WINNER HARRY CONNICK, JR.
AND THIS SUMMER’S FAVORITE ELECTRO HIP-HOP DUO, LMFAO, PERFORM ON
A SPECTACULAR NEW STATE OF THE ART SET, ON THE SEASON PREMIERE OF ABC’S
“DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW” TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

Season 13′s First Couple Will Be Eliminated on Tuesday

The Troupe Returns to “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show” with Three New Members

“Episode 1301 A + Meet the Cast”– A live one-hour special, “Dancing with the Stars: Meet the Cast,” airing TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network, features the most exciting moments from Monday night’s performances, along with commentary from the judges and never-before-seen footage from the teams’ first weeks of training. Following the one-hour special will be the Season Premiere of “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show” (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), with musical performances by Harry Connick, Jr. and LMFAO. By evening’s end, the first couple of the season will be sent home.

This week, Grammy ® and Emmy® Award winner Harry Connick, Jr. is set to perform “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever” from his upcoming Broadway musical by the same title. Electro hip-hop duo LMFAO also hits the stage, performing a medley of “Sexy and I Know it” and “Party Rock Anthem.” Both musical acts will be accompanied by “Dancing with the Stars” pros on the dance floor. Tuesday night’s musical acts will be the first to perform on the spectacular newly redesigned set that incorporates touches of the original ballroom, but now with three tiers of amphitheatre style balconies and state of the art staircase that moves with the band on a rising platform.

Harry Connick, Jr., one of today’s most successful and multi-talented artists, who has garnered acclaim in both the music and acting arenas, takes the stage. In addition to his role in “Dolphin Tale” and a 2011 Emmy win for “Harry Connick Jr. In Concert on Broadway,” he returns to Broadway this fall in the revival of the musical “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever.” His love of music and performing dates back to his childhood in New Orleans, where he studied piano with such luminaries as James Booker and Ellis Marsalis. He first performed publicly at age 5, appeared on his first recording at age 10 and released his self-titled major label debut for Columbia Records at 19, only a year after his high school graduation and his move to New York City. In the two decades since, he has released more than 20 albums, totaling more than 25 million in sales, and has received numerous music honors, including three Grammy Awards. He made his feature film acting debut in the World War II drama “Memphis Belle.” His acting credits also include Jodie Foster’s “Little Man Tate”; Jon Amiel’s “Copycat”; “Independence Day,” with Will Smith; “Hope Floats,” opposite Sandra Bullock; “Mickey,” written by John Grisham; William Friedkin’s “Bug”; Richard LaGravenese’s “P.S. I Love You,” with Hilary Swank; and “New in Town,” opposite RenŽe Zellweger. On the small screen, Connick starred in the ABC presentation of the musical “South Pacific” and played the recurring role of Grace’s love interest, Dr. Leo Markus, on the hit NBC series “Will & Grace.” In addition, he won Emmy Awards for the PBS Great Performances concert specials “Harry Connick, Jr: Only You,” and most recently for “Harry Connick, Jr. In Concert on Broadway.” In 2006, Connick made his Broadway acting debut in the Tony Award-winning revival of “The Pajama Game,” earning nominations for Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics

Circle and Drama League Awards for Best Performance by an Actor in a Musical. He had earlier received a Tony nomination for Best Original Score for the 2001 musical “Thou Shalt Not.” In summer 2010, he performed in concert on Broadway, in a sold-out limited engagement at the Neil Simon Theatre.

LMFAO, the Grammy-nominated electro hip-hop duo of Redfoo and Sky Blu, perform a medley that includes Billboard Magazine’s 2011 song of the summer, “Party Rock Anthem!” The track held the #1 spot on Billboard’s Top 100 Singles chart for 8 weeks in a row, and had the world shuffling as it topped the charts in 15 other countries. The duo’s sophomore set “Sorry for Party Rocking,” was released in June on Party Rock/will.i.am/Cherrytree/Interscope Records, where it debuted at #12 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart. LMFAO first got the party started with the release of their 2009 debut album, “Party Rock,” which included the singles “I’m in Miami Bitch,” “Shots feat. Lil Jon” and “Yes,” and was nominated for Best Electronic/Dance Album at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards, where the duo successfully — and hilariously — hosted the pre-tel awards ceremony.

Hosted by Tom Bergeron (“America’s Funniest Home Videos”) and Brooke Burke (“Dancing with the Stars” Season 7 champion), the celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which will be judged by renowned ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

About BBC Worldwide Productions:
BBC Worldwide Productions, led by Jane Tranter, is based in Los Angeles and develops and produces scripted and non-scripted projects for U.S. cable and broadcast networks, as well as digital platforms. The production company is responsible for the smash hit “Dancing with the Stars” (ABC), “Top Gear” (HISTORY), “What Not to Wear” (TLC) and “Torchwood: Miracle Day” (Starz). BBC Worldwide Productions sits within one of six core businesses that form BBC Worldwide, the main commercial arm and wholly-owned subsidiary of British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

Filed Under: American Entertainment News

ABC ANNOUNCES THE CELEBRITY AND PROFESSIONAL PAIRINGS FOR SEASON 13 OF “DANCING WITH THE STARS,” PREMIERING SEPTEMBER 19 ON ABC

August 31, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

The season 13 star-studded cast and their professional partners get ready to break in their dancing shoes on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” for the long awaited two-hour Season Premiere, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

In alphabetical order, with their professional partners, the 12 stars making their dancing debut are:

* RON ARTEST, NBA champion, partners with last season’s Troupe member PETA MURGATROYD, who makes her “Dancing with the Stars” debut as a professional partner this season.

* DAVID ARQUETTE, actor and producer, joins two-time champion KYM JOHNSON, who returns for her 10th season.

* CHAZ BONO, author and activist, teams up with LACEY SCHWIMMER, who is back for her 5th season.

* ELISABETTA CANALIS, model and actress, partners with VAL CHMERKOVSKIY, who makes his “Dancing with the Stars” debut as a professional partner this season.

* KRISTEN CAVALLARI, TV star, teams with two-time champ MARK BALLAS, who returns for his 9th season.

* NANCY GRACE, TV host and journalist, joins last season’s Troupe member TRISTAN MACMANUS, who makes his “Dancing with the Stars” debut as a professional partner this season.

* ROBERT KARDASHIAN, reality star, partners with two-time champ CHERYL BURKE, who is back for her 12th season.

* CARSON KRESSLEY, television star and style guru, partners with ANNA TREBUNSKAYA, who returns for her 8th season.

* RICKI LAKE, talk show host and actress, joins three-time champ DEREK HOUGH, who returns for his 8th season.

* J.R. MARTINEZ, veteran and actor, teams with KARINA SMIRNOFF, who returns for her 9th season.

* CHYNNA PHILLIPS, singer, joins TONY DOVOLANI, who is back for his 12th season.

* HOPE SOLO, World Cup star, teams with MAKSIM CHMERKOVSKIY, who returns for his 11th season.

All 12 couples will dance for the first time on live national television on MONDAY,
SEPTEMBER 19 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET), with couples either performing the Viennese Waltz or the Cha Cha. The couple with the lowest combined judges’ scores and public votes for their performance will be sent home the following night, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), on the season premiere of “Dancing with the Stars the Results.”

Hosted by Tom Bergeron (“America’s Funniest Home Videos”) and Brooke Burke (“Dancing with the Stars” Season Seven Champion), the celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which will be judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

Filed Under: American Entertainment News

ABC ANNOUNCES CELEBRITY CAST FOR NEW SEASON OF DANCING WITH THE STARS

August 30, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

“Dancing with the Stars the Results Show” Premieres in Week One With the First Elimination, Tuesday, September 20

Macy’s “Stars of Dance” Returns; and New This Season, “AT&T Spotlight Performance”

A dynamic lineup of stars – including a U.S. veteran, an NBA champion, a film and TV star, a TV host and journalist, a Grammy-nominated singer, a supermodel, a reality TV star, a showbiz legacy and activist, and a World Cup star — will take the stage for the two-hour season premiere of “Dancing with the Stars,” MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

All 12 couples will dance for the first time on live national television on MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, either performing the Cha Cha Cha or The Viennese Waltz. Airing on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET.), a live, one-hour special, “Dancing with the Stars: Meet the Cast,” will feature the most exciting moments from Monday night’s performances, with commentary from the judges and never-before-seen footage from the teams’ first weeks of training. Then, on the season premiere of “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show,” TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER, 20 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), the couple with the lowest combined judges’ scores and public votes for their performance will be sent home in the season’s first elimination.

The 12 celebrities heading to the dance floor this season, as announced tonight on ABC’s “Bachelor Pad” by “Dancing with the Stars” hosts Tom Bergeron and Brooke Burke in a live press conference sponsored by the September 16 film release, “I Don’t Know How She Does It,” are:

DAVID ARQUETTE — David Arquette is an actor, writer, director, producer and soon to be dancer. In 1997 Arquette was discovered at Sundance for his role in “Johns.” Since that time, he has acted in dozens of feature films, including the “Scream” films, “Hamlet 2,” “The Grey Zone,” “Dream with the Fishes,” “Never Die Alone” and “The Darwin Awards.” This year he reprised his role as Deputy “Dewey” Riley in the much anticipated fourth installment of the “Scream” films. He has also joined the cast of the Disney Television interactive series, “Jake and the Never Land Pirates,” where he lends his voice as Scully, a lookout pirate parrot who helps Jake and his crew of kid pirates. In January 2003, Arquette formed a production company, Coquette Productions, with Courteney Cox. Through their company, he wrote and produced his directorial debut, “The Tripper,” as well as “The Butler’s in Love,” which he executive-produced and directed. Also under the Coquette banner he produced the F/X drama “Dirt” and ABC’s “Cougar Town,” with Bill Lawrence, which Arquette executive produces along with Cox, who stars. Up next, he will direct the 3D psychological thriller “Glutton” for Remember Dreaming Productions, executive-producing through Coquette.

RON ARTEST — Born in Queensbridge, New York, Ron Artest is currently a member of the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team and a father to four children. He was signed to a five-year contract by the L.A. Lakers as a free agent in 2009 and has been playing professional basketball in the NBA since 1999. He was selected to the 2005-06 NBA’s All-Defensive Team, was voted by the media as 2003-04 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, and was the only man with 271 steals in his first two seasons in the NBA– breaking Michael Jordan’s record. Artest won his first World Championship ring in June 2010 after the Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics in Game Seven of the 2010 NBA Finals, and received the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award – the NBA’s highest citizenship and community service honor – in April 2011. In his career, he has played for the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings, Houston Rockets and now the Los Angeles Lakers. He has remained an active contributor in his hometown and in the home cities of the organizations for which he has played, as well as in regions globally that require urgent humanitarian aid. In August 2007, Artest formed the non-profit Xcel University to officially organize and streamline his charitable contributions and community endeavors under one umbrella. He joined a contingent of representatives from the NBA Players Association working with Feed the Children, as well as Project Contact Africa, and became a spokesman in PETA’s (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) A.B.C. (Animal Birth Control) campaign in 2007. In the fall of 2008, Artest launched The Artest Math Masters program at Felix Cook Jr. Elementary School in partnership with the Houston Independent School District, which rewarded students who maintained high grades in Mathematics during the 2008-2009 school year. In fall 2010, he decided to raffle off his 2010 NBA World Championship Ring, with the proceeds going to Xcel University. Funds raised through the ring raffle were earmarked for non-profits that provide mental health therapists and mental health services to those who wouldn’t be able to otherwise afford them. Artest has visited dozens of community centers, schools and libraries in low income areas of numerous cities throughout his career, speaking to kids about the virtues of education and a life devoid of violence and drugs, and on the importance of getting a college education. He sponsors summer basketball tournaments in the Queensbridge Projects in New York City, sends kids from Queensbridge to summer camps, and pays tuition for kids from Queensbridge who show academic promise to attend private schools. In June 2011, he filed a petition to legally change his name to Metta World Peace.

CHAZ BONO — Chaz Bono is an LGBT rights advocate, three time author, speaker and the only child of famed entertainers Sonny and Cher. His decision to come out as a Lesbian in 1995 prompted his public work in support of LGBT rights and social justice. Chaz has contributed as a writer-at-large to The Advocate and, in 1996, became the Human Rights Campaign’s National Coming Out Day spokesperson. He also served as Entertainment Media Director for the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), and has spoken at dozens of universities and LGBT events. An acclaimed author, he has written three books, including Transition, which was released by Dutton on May 10th. Transition is his groundbreaking and candid account of a 40-year struggle to match his gender identity with his physical body. He has most recently shared his life and experiences in the three-time Emmy nominated documentary, “Becoming Chaz.” Premiering to standing ovations at this year’s Sundance, “Becoming Chaz” had its world television premiere on May 10, 2011 on the Oprah Winfrey Network. Chaz continues to create visibility, raise awareness and effect change for LGBT issues. He currently lives in Los Angeles with his fiancé, Jennifer Elia.

ELISABETTA CANALIS – Known for her gorgeous figure and striking expressions, Elisabetta Canalis became an instantly recognizable figure in the world of high fashion and advertising. She has worked with some of the greatest fashion icons, including Roberto Cavalli, and has graced such magazine covers as Vogue, Vanity Fair, GQ and Cosmopolitan. Born in Sassari, Sardinia, Italy, Canalis’ father, Cesare and mother, Bruna enrolled Elisabetta in the elite school Liceo Azuni, where she studied throughout her high school years. After graduating, she moved to Milan to study foreign languages at the prestigious Universita Statale. It was there that she made the bold career decision to pursue acting rather than foreign languages, and her enthusiasm for her craft soon landed her a series regular role on the infamous Italian television drama, “Striscia la Notizia,” for three years. The exposure and critical acclaim she received presented Canalis the opportunity to work in American & Italian film and TV. She has since appeared in the comedies “Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo” and “Virgin Territory.” In Italy she appeared in the films “La Seconda Volta Non Si Scorda Mai,” “La fidanzata di papa,” “A Natale mi Sposo,” as well as “Christmas in NY.” Television credits include the Italian series “Carabinieri” and the sitcom “Love Bugs.” Canalis has also demonstrated her impressive dramatic capabilities in America with a recurring role on TNT’s smash hit, “Leverage.” Her entertainment career continued to blossom after her big screen debut. Her drive for success and passion for music were united when she hosted the Italian version of “Total Request Live,” as well as Italy’s annual music festival, Festivalbar 2007. Recently she co-hosted the 61st edition of the Sanremo Music Festival, which is considered to be the most prestigious television event in Italy. Canalis is also known for her great philanthropic endeavors. Combining her deep love of animals and her passion for modeling, she participated in an upcoming anti-fur campaign with PETA. An avid equestrian for the past 10 years, she says that her opposition to animal cruelty began as a young girl. Her work with PETA solidifies her determination to end all forms of animal abuse and neglect. Canalis currently resides in Los Angeles, California and Milan, Italy but she loves coming back to Sardinia, the island where she was born and where part of her family lives.

KRISTIN CAVALLARI – Born in Denver, Colorado, Kristin Cavallari moved to California with her brother and father as a high school junior when the first season of “Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County” began production for MTV. She was nominated for a Teen Choice Award in 2006 for Choice Reality Star. After completing two successful years on the hit show, Cavallari switched gears to focus on a career in acting. From 2006-2009 she starred in such films as “Van Wilder: Freshman Year,” “Green Flash,” “Spring Breakdown” and “Wild Cherry,” alongside Rumer Willis and Rob Schneider. Next she played a guest role on “CSI: NY,” and most recently on ABC’s “The Middle.” Other credits include “Veronica Mars,” the lead role in Teddy Geiger’s “For You I Will (Confidence)” music video and Gavin Degraw’s video for his single, “In Love with a Girl.” In May 2009, Cavallari confirmed that she would be joining the cast of MTV’s reality series “The Hills.” Currently serving as ambassador of children’s charity One Kid One World, Cavallari joins the fight to aid underprivileged children around the globe. In 2010 she traveled to El Salvador, where she spent time rebuilding schools in local communities. Continuing her humanitarian efforts, she made her way to Kenya in early 2011 for another project for One Kid One World. Most recently Cavallari combined her passion for fashion and love for charity by teaming up with Shoe Dazzle to design a spring shoe, with proceeds benefiting the charity. Her new spring shoe, named Bardot, will be available in summer of 2011.

NANCY GRACE — An outspoken, tireless advocate for victims’ rights and one of TV’s most respected legal analysts, Nancy Grace is the powerful force behind HLN’s top-rated “Nancy Grace.” A former prosecutor with an unparalleled record of success, Grace’s life changed forever in 1979 when her fiancé, Keith Griffin, was shot and killed. She abandoned plans to become an English professor and turned to criminal justice. Her first book, Objection!, became an instant New York Times bestseller, as did her two subsequent novels, The Eleventh Victim and Death on the D-List. A television movie adaptation of The Eleventh Victim is currently in development. Grace initially came to TV from the Atlanta Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, where she served for over a decade as a felony prosecutor of violent crimes. Known for her authentic sensibility and her firebrand take on the justice system, she was tapped to co-host Court TV’s “Cochran and Grace,” and later, the live daily trial coverage program, “Closing Arguments.” Grace, her husband and her twins reside in Atlanta and New York City.

ROB KARDASHIAN — Born in Los Angeles, California, Rob Kardashian is the fourth child and only son of the late attorney Robert Kardashian and Kris Jenner; he has five sisters, Kourtney, Kim and Khloe Kardashian, and Kendall and Kylie Jenner. Rob graduated from the prestigious Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California with a degree in Business Entrepreneurship. He stars in the No. 1 hit reality television show, “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” and also stars in the hit series for E!, “Khloe & Lamar.” True to the entrepreneurial attitude he developed during college, Rob is involved in several business ventures. He is co-manager of the pop music, female super-group BG5, alongside renowned manager Kenneth Crear. He also enjoys a successful modeling career as the face of the popular brand Ocean Pacific. Rob travels across the country making personal appearances for club venues and charity events. In his spare time, he maintains an active lifestyle. He runs and plays basketball with his NBA Laker Champion brother-in-law, Lamar Odom, loves to play golf, and is an avid skier. Rob currently lives in Los Angeles, California, with his sister, Khloe, and Lamar.

CARSON KRESSLEY — Emmy-winning television star, celebrity stylist, author and fashion designer Carson Kressley is currently starring in “Carson-Nation,” a one-hour reality show on Oprah Winfrey’s OWN, in which he travels to small towns throughout the U.S., transforming lives one person at a time. Previously, Kressley helmed Lifetime’s critically-acclaimed “How to Look Good Naked,” and earned a primetime Emmy for his role on Bravo’s breakout hit series, “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.” He hosted ABC’s “True Beauty” from executive producers Tyra Banks and Ashton Kutcher, the WB series “Crowned,” as well as “Your Own Show: Oprah’s Search for the Next TV Star” on OWN. He was a frequent style contributor on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” Kressley co-starred in Universal’s “The Perfect Man” and opposite John Goodman in NBC’s “The Year Without a Santa Claus.” Host of the 2008 True Colors tour with Cyndi Lauper and the B52′s, which raised awareness and promoted equality for the LGBT community, Kressley is also a New York Times best-selling author with three books to his credit, including the children’s book You’re Different and That’s Super, a children’s book promoting diversity and tolerance. A strong supporter of many philanthropic causes, he has worked with The Trevor Project, The Human Rights Campaign, The Empire State Pride Agenda, LIGALY, GLSEN, AIDS WALK, and the Al D. Rodriguez Liver Foundation. Kressley is the founder of Manhattan’s Ali Forney Center’s “Styled For Success” program, which provides career wardrobes for formerly homeless youth, and was the founding donor of the first scholarship program for LGBT youth in his hometown of Allentown, Pennsylvania. When he is not working, he can be found on one of his American Saddlebred show horses, with which he has achieved World Champion status.

RICKI LAKE — Poised to return to daytime television with the all-new “The Ricki Lake Show” in the fall of 2012, Ricki Lake is a pop culture icon who has built a career on her candid, “straight talk” sensibility and her authentic, relatable nature. She has maintained a worldwide fan base that is a true cross-section of age and ethnicity, and her approachable appeal has charmed international movie and television audiences for more than two decades. As Tracy Turnblad, the zaftig heroine of the original John Waters’ film “Hairspray,” Lake made an acting debut that positioned her as an “entertainer to watch” in Hollywood. Later, with a surprise turn as a talk show host, she met with unprecedented success and earned her place as a beloved media personality across the globe. Lake has recently completed work on a memoir due on shelves in the spring 2012. In addition, she executive-produced the critically acclaimed documentary, “The Business of Being Born,” which debuted at the 2007 Tribeca Film Festival and examines natural childbirth in the United States. That project has generated a grassroots movement and led to the publication of her first book, Your Best Birth. On November 8, 2011, Lake and her filmmaking partner, Abby Epstein, will release a four-part follow-up DVD series, “More Business of Being Born,” offering invaluable information and featuring birth stories from some of Hollywood’s most notable celebrities. Lake starred in John Waters’ “Cry Baby,” opposite Johnny Depp, and “Serial Mom,” alongside Kathleen Turner. Other notable appearances include the contemporary classic “Working Girl,” the acclaimed drama “Last Exit to Brooklyn,” the romantic comedy “Mrs. Winterbourne,” opposite Shirley MacLaine and Brendan Fraser, and “Where the Day Takes You,” opposite Dermot Mulroney. She also starred in the CBS film “Babycakes” and the popular television series “China Beach” and “The King of Queens.”

J.R. MARTINEZ — J.R. Martinez is an Iraq War veteran, motivational speaker and actor on ABC’s “All My Children.” In April 2003, at 19 years of age, Martinez was serving as a humvee driver for the United States Army in Iraq when his left front tire hit a landmine. He suffered smoke inhalation and burns to more than 40 percent of his body. He was immediately evacuated and sent to Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) in San Antonio, TX, where he spent 34 months in recovery. Since his injury, Martinez has undergone 33 different surgeries, including skin grafts and cosmetic surgery. While in recovery, he started speaking to other burn patients within the hospital, sharing his experiences and listening to theirs. News of his story and efforts to help others quickly spread, first on a local level and then to national circuits, leading to appearances on “Oprah,” “60 Minutes,” CNN and more. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Martinez has traveled the country since 2004, spreading his message of resilience and optimism. Today he is a sought-after motivational speaker and has shared the stage with many notable individuals. In October 2008, he joined the cast of ABC’s Emmy® Award-winning daytime drama, “All My Children,” as combat veteran Brot Monroe. He continues to balance his motivational speaking engagements and charity work with his acting. He is also busy working on his memoir. Born in Shreveport, LA, Martinez moved to Hope, AZ, where he and his mother lived until he was 17. They moved to Dalton, GA, just prior to his senior year, the place he proudly calls his hometown.

CHYNNA PHILLIPS — Wife, mother, singer/songwriter, actress, philanthropist and entrepreneur, Chynna Phillips has been surrounded by Hollywood since she first entered this world. Born to musicians John and Michelle Phillips of famed 60′s group The Mamas and The Papas, Chynna began her acting career appearing in John Hughes’ 1982 teen-sensation, “Some Kind of Wonderful.” She followed up with roles in 1988′s “Caddyshack II,” 1989′s “Say Anything,” and played the character Roxanne Pulitzer in the 1989 TV biopic, “Roxanne: The Prize Pulitzer.” Next Phillips, along with childhood friends Carnie & Wendy Wilson, formed the trio Wilson Phillips. In 1990 the group released their self-titled debut album which would go on to sell ten million copies worldwide, go 5x multi-platinum, with three No. 1 singles. Billboard declared them the best selling female group of all time, breaking the record previously set by Motown’s The Supremes. Wilson Phillips was nominated for five Grammy Awards, an American Music Award and won a Billboard Music Award (for “Hold On” and “Release Me,” written by Phillips). Taking a break from the group, Phillips released a successful solo album entitled “Naked & Sacred,” while also filming and starring in the lead role of the television remake of famed Broadway musical “Bye Bye Birdie.” That same year she also married husband and fellow actor William Baldwin. She then took time off to focus on family, and had three children, while also reclaiming herself and becoming a Christian. In 2004 she reunited with Wilson Phillips and they released their 3rd album, “California,” which paid homage to west coast musicians from the 1960s and 1970s. In 2009 Phillips teamed up with singer/songwriter Vaughan Penn to form the Christian pop duo Chynna & Vaughan, and put out an album entitled “One Reason.” Shortly thereafter, Wilson Phillips also released their 1st Christmas album, “Wilson Phillips Christmas in Harmony.” Earlier this year, it was announced that Wilson Phillips would be reuniting again for an album of original music to celebrate their 20 years together as a musical group. The group was also featured in this year’s blockbuster comedy film, “Bridesmaids.” Phillips works with the charity Los Angelitos Orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico, which is devoted to helping the children who are displaced by the constant violence in the city and to creating a warm and loving environment for the kids.

HOPE SOLO — Hope Solo is widely considered the best goalkeeper in the world and has been the starter for the United States women’s national team since 2005. She scored 109 goals as a high school forward before moving to goal at the University of Washington near her hometown of Richland, Washington. At the 2011 World Cup, Solo recorded two shutouts in group play, and then, in what is considered one of the greatest soccer games in history, made a save in a penalty shootout against Brazil in the quarterfinal, helping the Americans advance to the semis. The U.S. reached the final, falling to Japan in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw. Solo was awarded the Adidas Golden Glove by FIFA as the tournament’s top goalkeeper. She was also the starting goalkeeper for the United States in the 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, where the U.S. women’s team won the gold medal by defeating Brazil 1-0 in extra time, in no small measure due to Solo’s performance as she stopped an energetic Brazilian attack, making save after save. Solo started her Women’s Professional Soccer career playing for Saint Louis Athletica, and was named Goalkeeper of the Year in 2009. Since then she has played for the Atlanta Beat and currently plays for magicJack as the starting goalkeeper, and is a two-time WPS All Star. When not playing soccer, Solo enjoys reading, basketball, beach volleyball and other outdoor activities. She loves traveling the world and gives back through community service projects.

“Dancing with the Stars” returns with a few huge new surprises, plus all the elements viewers have come to know and love. “Macy’s Stars of Dance,” which features some of the best choreographers and performers from different styles of dance and offers viewers performances that represent the peak of achievement in their genres, will return on “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show.” One of the “Macy’s Stars of Dance” performances will be the popular “Design-a-Dance,” where fans have the chance to select their favorite professional dancers, dance styles, songs and costumes at www.abc.com. New this season will be “AT&T’s Spotlight Performance,” which features and celebrates people whose lives have been changed forever by dance.

Below are key dates for Season 13 (dates and times subject to change):

* “Dancing with the Stars’” two-hour season premiere, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET)

* “Dancing with Stars: Meet the Cast” one-hour special, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET)

* “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show” one-hour season premiere, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET)

* “Dancing with the Stars’” season finale, NOVEMBER 2011 (date TBA).

Viewers may cast their votes for their favorite teams via phone on Monday night during and up to 30 minutes after the “Dancing with the Stars” performance shows. AT&T customers may also text message their votes by texting the word “VOTE” and entering the number that corresponds to the team they want to support (message and data rates may apply). Viewers may also vote online at www.abc.com starting from the opening of each episode on the East Coast with voting closing at 8:00 a.m., PT/11:00 a.m., ET on Tuesday mornings.

Just in time for the big casting news, ABC.com is launching its new “Discuss” pages, www.abc.tv/DWTSDiscuss. In addition to featuring the show’s official Twitter and Facebook feeds, the pages are designed to make it easier to find, follow and dive into conversations that are happening around the show. Site producers will be actively pulling and highlighting conversations that are really resonating with fans, trending on Twitter or are simply fun or different. Throughout the season the ABC.com team will use the page to share exclusive content, host talent chats and, ultimately, highlight the uber fans that participate the most.

Tonight’s live “DWTS” cast announcement was sponsored by the upcoming feature film, “I Don’t Know How She Does It,” starring Sarah Jessica Parker and produced by The Weinstein Company.

About BBC Worldwide Productions:

BBC Worldwide Productions, led by Jane Tranter, is based in Los Angeles and develops and produces scripted and non-scripted projects for U.S. cable and broadcast networks, as well as digital platforms. The production company is responsible for the smash hit “Dancing with the Stars” (ABC), “Top Gear” (HISTORY), “What Not to Wear” (TLC) and “Torchwood: Miracle Day” (Starz). BBC Worldwide Productions sits within one of six core businesses that form BBC Worldwide, the main commercial arm and wholly-owned subsidiary of British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

About The Weinstein Company:

The Weinstein Company (TWC) is a multimedia production and distribution company launched in October 2005 by Bob and Harvey Weinstein. TWC also encompasses Dimension Films, the genre label founded in 1993 by Bob Weinstein, which has released such popular franchises as “Scream,” “Spy Kids” and “Scary Movie.” Together TWC and Dimension Films released Tom Hooper’s “The King’s Speech,” winner of four 2011 Academy Awards®, including Best Picture. Upcoming releases include “Our Idiot Brother,” “Apollo 18,” “Dirty Girl,” “I Don’t Know How She Does It,” “My Week with Marilyn” and “The Artist.” Recently wrapped is “Cogan’s Trade.” TWC’s television credits include the Emmy® Award-winning hit reality series “Project Runway,” the new VH1 reality series “Mob Wives” and the critically acclaimed HBO comedy/crime series “The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency.” The company is producing three “Project Runway” spinoffs, “Project Runway All Stars,” “Project Runway: Masters” and “Project Runway: Accessories.” The company currently has 17 series in development, including: “Marco Polo,” “The Nanny Diaries” and “The Mad Ones.”

Filed Under: American Entertainment News

ON NEXT WEEK’S DANCING WITH THE STARS (5/16 & 17, 2011)

May 13, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

FOUR REMAINING COUPLES COMPETE IN THE SERIES’ TOUGHEST
SEMIFINAL EVER, ON “DANCING WITH THE STARS,” MONDAY, MAY 16 ON ABC

TUESDAY FEATURES UNFORGETTABLE APPEARANCES BY FAVORITE “DWTS” ALUMS,
PLUS ONE LAST ELIMINATION TO DETERMINE SEASON 12′S FINAL THREE COUPLES,
ON “DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW,” MAY 17 ON ABC

Legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Stevie Nicks Performs Two Songs Live on Tuesday

Rocking Performance from Music Sensation Pitbull Featuring Ne-Yo also Tuesday

“Episode 1209″ – The competition is closer than ever as the four remaining pairs perform three pressure packed routines — one ballroom and one Latin dance they’ve not yet done, and one winner-takes-all Cha Cha — for the chance to make it to the Season 12 finals, on “Dancing with the Stars,” MONDAY, MAY 16 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET/PT), on the ABC Television Network.

Tuesday’s exciting two-hours of dance begin with “Dancing with the Stars Live: Freestyle Special,” in which “DWTS” alums Apolo Anton Ohno (Season 4 champion), Donnie Osmond (Season 9 champion), Warren Sapp (Season 7 finalist) return to the ballroom to provide color commentary on their memorable individual freestyle routines. In addition, “DWTS” pros and the dance troupe perform two medleys to some of the best music from past freestyles. Season 2 winners Drew Lachey and Cheryl Burke will also be back to perform their fan favorite freestyle, “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy,” on “Dancing with the Stars Live: Freestyle Special,” TUESDAY, MAY 10 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

Then, on “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show: Episode 1209A,” TUESDAY, MAY 17, (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), one semifinalist couple will leave the ballroom and the three Season 12 finalist couples will be determined. On this action packed Results show, guest musical artist, Grammy Award-winning and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Stevie Nicks performs two songs, the iconic “Landslide,” accompanied by Tony and Cheryl on the dance floor, and the new single “Secret Love” from “In Your Dreams” — her first new CD in over a decade — accompanied by Dmitry, Anna, Peta and Damian on the dance floor. Also this Tuesday, music sensation Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo and Nayer perform his single, “Give Me Everything,” from his newest album, “Planet Pit.”

Rock & Roll’s reigning queen, Stevie Nicks recently released her new CD, “In Your Dreams,” which was her first CD of new material since the release of her Grammy-nominated “Trouble in Shangri-La” 10 years ago. “In Your Dreams” was written and recorded at Nicks’ Los Angeles home and was co-produced by Dave Stewart and Glen Ballard. Nicks and Stewart co-wrote 7 of the album’s 13 songs, including her first single, “Secret Love,” which is currently on iTunes. Nicks recently joined forces with fellow rocker Rod Stewart for the 16-city Heart & Soul Tour which began March 20th in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. A multi-Grammy Award winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Nicks’ extraordinary career as a solo artist, songwriter, live performer and member of Fleetwood Mac is legendary. Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” was one of the biggest selling albums of all time. Nicks penned such Mac classics as “Landslide,” “Dreams,” “Gold Dust Woman” and “Rhiannon.” As a solo artist, beginning with the five-time platinum debut “Bella Donna,” her solo hits include unforgettable singles such as “Edge of Seventeen,” “Leather and Lace” and “Stand Back.”

Cuban-American music sensation Pitbull builds on his global success with his sixth album, “Planet Pit,” available June 21, which features guests Marc Anthony, Chris Brown, T-Pain, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland and Sean Paul. He collaborated with Ne-Yo, Afrojack and Nayer on his new single, “Give Me Everything.” Already climbing the charts, the song is poised to pick up where Pit’s multi-platinum smash hits “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho),” “Hotel Room Service” and “Hey Baby (Drop It on the Floor)” left off. Pitbull recently introduced Voli, his own line of premium, low-calorie vodka, and a entered into partnership with Sheets, the dissolvable energy strip. He has also launched his own Polo Grounds Music/J Records imprint (Mr. 305 Records) and inked major sponsorship deals with blue-chip brands Kodak, Dr. Pepper, Bud Light and Mr. Worldwide.

This week’s powerful “Spotlight Segment” features the moment of a lifetime for 13-year-old Tayla Kelley, as she performs to “Bulletproof” with “DWTS” pros Lacey Schwimmer and Chelsie Hightower. Born with Primary Immune Deficiency Disease, the Rochester native has spent her entire childhood unable to fight infection, which has led to multiple surgeries, organ failure and shortened life expectancy. Despite these insurmountable odds, Kelley has found inspiration and strength to fight this severe, chronic illness through dance since age 2, and was recently recruited by the Timothy M. Draper School of Dance the training school for the Rochester city Ballet.

By Tuesday evening’s end, one couple will be eliminated from the competition, as determined by a combination of the judges’ scores and viewers’ votes for Monday’s performance. Who among the four remaining semifinalists will leave the ballroom floor and who will make it to the finals of “Dancing with the Stars’” most competitive season ever?

* KIRSTIE ALLEY, television and movie star, and MAKSIM CHMERKOVSKIY
* CHELSEA KANE, Disney star, and two-time champ MARK BALLAS
* RALPH MACCHIO, movie star, and KARINA SMIRNOFF
* HINES WARD, Super Bowl MVP, and Season 9 champion KYM JOHNSON

Viewers may cast their votes for their favorite teams via phone on Monday night during and up to 30 minutes after the “Dancing with the Stars” performance shows. AT&T customers may also text message their votes by texting the word “VOTE” and entering the number that corresponds to the team they want to support (message and data rates may apply). AT&T will also offer customers exclusive
mobile video footage of weekly backstage highlights to keep fans connected to some of their favorite couples all season long. Viewers may also vote online at www.abc.com starting from the opening of each episode on the East Coast with voting closing at 8:00 a.m., PT/11:00 a.m., ET on Tuesday mornings.

“What Not to Wear” (TLC) and “Torchwood: Miracle Day” (Starz). BBC Worldwide Productions is one of seven core businesses within BBC Worldwide, the main commercial arm and wholly-owned subsidiary of British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

Filed Under: American Entertainment News

On ABC’s Dancing with the Stars, Monday & Tuesday, May 9 & 10

May 9, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

THE COMPETITION HEATS UP AS FIVE REMAINING PAIRS PERFORM
TWO DANCES, INCLUDING THE PRESSURE-FILLED “INSTANT DANCE,”
ON “DANCING WITH THE STARS,” MONDAY, MAY 9, ON ABC

THEN ON TUESDAY, MAY 10, TWO HOURS OF DANCING FEATURE THE GREATEST
RESULTS PERFORMANCES EVER, LEADING UP TO WHAT PROMISES TO BE THE MOST DRAMATIC ELIMINATION YET ON “DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW”

Current No. 1 Artist with Biggest Selling Album of the Year,
Grammy Award Winner Adele Performs Two Songs Live on Tuesday

“Episode 1208″ – The pressure mounts this week as five remaining pairs perform two individual dances, one ballroom number and one “Instant Dance” — in which couples will have to master a number to music they’ve been given for the first time after the show’s broadcast has begun — on “Dancing with the Stars,” MONDAY, MAY 9 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET/PT), on ABC.

On TUESDAY, MAY 10 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET), two hours of “Dancing” get underway with the special, “Dancing with the Stars: Greatest Results Show Performances,” featuring the most extraordinary Results performance moments in the show’s history. Then, on “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show: Episode 1208A” (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), another couple will be asked to leave the ballroom and this season’s semifinalists will be determined in what could be the most dramatic elimination so far. Also this week, Grammy Award-winning artist Adele will perform two songs, the classic ballad “Natural Woman,” with Cheryl Burke and Louis Van Amstel on the dance floor, and the enormously popular first single from her No. 1 bestselling album, “21.”

In this week’s “Spotlight Segment,” all eyes will be on Hefa Tuita (19) and his brothers, Solane (16) and Tu’iniua (12), as they perform to LMAFO’s Party Rock Anthem. The “Dancing with the Stars Spotlight” features talented performers whose lives have been changed forever by dance. Born in Hawaii and raised in Utah, all three boys have trained in hip hop, jazz and ballet throughout childhood thanks to their father, who worked three jobs to keep his sons in dance school. When their father passed away in 2008, the eldest brother began dancing professionally as a means to support his family and still continues to do so, working with such artists as Rich and Tone and Chris Brown.

Adele’s “21″ is the biggest selling album of 2011. The album has sold over 7 million copies worldwide since its release early this year (released in the UK on Jan 24, the album has sold 2 million units there and has held the No. 1 slot for 13 weeks). “21″ is enjoying its 6th week at No. 1 on U.S. album charts, with over 1.5 million albums sold in the U.S. alone. Adele kicks off her sold-out tour of the U.S. on Thursday May 12 in Washington DC (@ 9:30 Club), which will run through June 20 in Nashville. In 2009 the British singer-songwriter-performer took home a pair of Grammy Awards
– including Best New Artist — for “19.” Adele comes of age with her second album, “21.” All of the album’s tracks, with the exception of guitar rendition of The Cure’s “Lovesong,” were written with the help of her musical collaborators: Paul Epworth (“Rolling in the Deep,” “He Won’t Go,” “I’ll Be Waiting”), Ryan Tedder (“Rumour Has It,” “Turning Tables”), Dan Wilson (“Don’t You Remember,” “One and Only,” “Someone Like You”), Fraser T. Smith (“Set Fire to the Rain”), Francis “Eg” White (“Take It All”), and Greg Wells (“One and Only”). “21″ was cut in Malibu with producer Rick Rubin (Johnny Cash, Jay Z, Red Hot Chili Peppers) and in Kensal Rise in London with Paul Epworth (Plan B, Bloc Party, Florence and the Machine). In December 2007, Adele became the first recipient of the Brit Awards’ newly inaugurated Critics Choice prize, presented to the year’s most significant artist, who, at that time, had yet to release an album. She was also honored as the winner of BBC Music’s Sound of 2008 poll as the most promising new musical artist likely to emerge in the upcoming year. Her triumphs were superseded by the chart success and sales performance of “19″ and its hit singles — “Chasing Pavements,” “Hometown Glory,” “Cold Shoulder” and her version of Bob Dylan’s “Make You Feel My Love” — and sold-out concert performances, including a headline slot at the Hollywood Bowl in front of 19,000 fans. Born in London on May 5, 1988, Adele (nŽe Adele Adkins) released her first single in October 2007. “Hometown Glory,” a song she’d written at age 16 in response to her mother’s suggestion she leave London to attend university, would go on to earn a Grammy nomination.

By Tuesday evening’s end, one couple will be eliminated from the competition, as determined by a combination of the judges’ scores and viewers’ votes for Monday’s performance. Who among the five remaining teams will leave the ballroom floor and who will make it to the semi-finals?

* KIRSTIE ALLEY, television and movie star, and MAKSIM CHMERKOVSKIY
* CHELSEA KANE, Disney star, and two-time champ MARK BALLAS
* RALPH MACCHIO, movie star, and KARINA SMIRNOFF
* ROMEO, rapper and actor, teamed up with CHELSIE HIGHTOWER
* HINES WARD, Super Bowl MVP, and Season 9 champion KYM JOHNSON

Hosted by Tom Bergeron and Brooke Burke, the celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which are judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

Viewers may cast their votes for their favorite teams via phone on Monday night during and up to 30 minutes after the “Dancing with the Stars” performance shows. AT&T customers may also text message their votes by texting the word “VOTE” and entering the number that corresponds to the team they want to support (message and data rates may apply). AT&T also offers customers exclusive mobile video footage of weekly backstage highlights to keep fans connected to some of their favorite couples all season long. Viewers may also vote online at www.abc.com starting from the opening of each episode on the East Coast with voting closing at 8:00 a.m., PT/11:00 a.m., ET on Tuesday mornings.

About BBC Worldwide Productions:
BBC Worldwide Productions is based in Los Angeles and develops and produces scripted and non-scripted projects for U.S. cable and broadcast networks, as well as digital platforms. The production company is responsible for the smash hit “Dancing with the Stars” (ABC), “Top Gear” (HISTORY), “What Not to Wear” (TLC) and “Torchwood: Miracle Day” (Starz). BBC Worldwide Productions is one of seven core businesses within BBC Worldwide, the main commercial arm and wholly-owned subsidiary of British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

Filed Under: American Entertainment News

ON MONDAY’S DANCING WITH THE STARS (4/25/2011)

April 22, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

SEVEN COUPLES ENJOY THEIR MOST GUILTY PLEASURES,
ON MONDAY’S “DANCING WITH THE STARS” ON ABC

HANSON Performs Live in a “DWTS” Monday First

“Episode 1206″ – “Dancing with the Stars” celebrates Guilty Pleasures Night as each of the seven remaining couples compete — with either a latin or ballroom style they have yet to perform — set to the tunes of some of their favorite musical “guilty pleasures.” Monday night’s show also features the first-ever Monday night performance by a live band when pop music sensations HANSON sing their fan favorite, “MmmBop,” MONDAY, APRIL 25 (8:00-9:31 p.m., ET) on The ABC Television Network.

Native sons of Tulsa, Oklahoma, HANSON have been making their soul-inspired brand of American pop-rock & roll for nearly two decades. They recently released their fifth studio album, “Shout It Out,” on their label 3CG Records. The album was produced and written exclusively by the band and augmented with special guests Funk Brothers bassist Bob Babbitt and famed horn arranger Jerry Hey. Together the three brothers have received multiple Grammy nominations (drummer Zac is the youngest nominated songwriter in history), headlined at venues from Carnegie Hall to The Hollywood Bowl, made world records for the loudest concert audience in history (chronicled in the documentary film “Strong Enough to Break”) and formed their own independent record company, 3CG Records. Simultaneously with the launch of their 2007 album, “The Walk,” they championed calls for action in humanitarian efforts, galvanizing tens of thousands of people to participate in barefoot one-mile walks to fight HIV/AIDS and extreme poverty in sub-Saharan Africa. They’re committed to their live concert experience, with special events like their sold out five-night stand in NYC, featuring each of their albums performed in their entirety, culminating with the debut of “Shout It Out” live.

The seven remaining couples are:

* KIRSTIE ALLEY, television and movie star, and MAKSIM CHMERKOVSKIY
* CHRIS JERICHO, WWE star, with two-time champ CHERYL BURKE
* CHELSEA KANE, Disney star, and two-time champ MARK BALLAS
* RALPH MACCHIO, movie star, and KARINA SMIRNOFF
* ROMEO, rapper and actor, teamed up with CHELSIE HIGHTOWER
* HINES WARD, Super Bowl MVP, and Season 9 champion KYM JOHNSON
* KENDRA WILKINSON, reality star, with LOUIS VAN AMSTEL

Filed Under: American Entertainment News

ON DANCING AND DANCING RESULTS SHOW ON ABC (4/18 & 19)

April 18, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

A FOURTH COUPLE IS SENT HOME AND “DANCING WITH THE STARS” HONORS U.S. TROOPS WITH ITS FIRST EVER ALL AMERICAN-THEMED WEEK, ON ABC

“Macy’s Stars of Dance” Honors the American Dream with a Stirring Number by Famed Film Choreographer Jamal Sims

“Episode 1205 & 1205A” – “Dancing with the Stars” celebrates American Week as all eight remaining couples strut their stuff to classic American themed songs, MONDAY, APRIL 18 (8:00-9:31 p.m., ET/PT) on The ABC Television Network.

On Tuesday, a fourth couple will be eliminated from the competition and special musical guest country star Toby Keith performs two of his biggest hits. In a moving tribute to his country and U.S. Troops overseas, the Grammy-nominated artist will sing “American Soldier,” accompanied by “Dancing with the Stars” pros Anna Trebunskaya and Jonathan Roberts, and “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” with Maks Chmerkovskiy, Lacey Schwimmer and the “Dancing with the Stars” Dance Troupe. This week’s “Macy’s Stars of Dance” American week performance is a powerful number choreographed by Jamal Sims. “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show” airs TUESDAY, APRIL 19 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

The Oklahoma-based Keith opened last year topping the charts with his Grammy-nominated “Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song),” and is once again doing the same with the title track from his current album, “Bullets in the Gun.” Recently The American Country Awards presented him with their Video Visionary Award for his cinematic performance. “Bullets” was Most Added upon its debut at radio, and ended the year near the top of the charts. The album itself debuted at No. 1 on the all-genre album charts in October. Last year Keith performed on the 37th Annual Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on July 4, and continued his Ford Trucks-sponsored American Ride Tour, which concluded as one of Pollstar’s top-ranked outings of the year. Keith continues his commitment to American troops overseas, with Forward Operating Bases in the Persian Gulf, Korea and elsewhere, this year marking his eighth USO Tour. His annual golf tournament event supports the Toby Keith Foundation and its efforts to spearhead construction and operation of OK Kids Korral, a home for pediatric cancer patients and their families near OU Medical Center Children’s Hospital. On the professional front, his Tokeco Tunes publishing company was named the No. 6 publisher in Billboard’s year-end list. It was the highest-ranked independent publisher, in and among industry powerhouses like Sony and EMI. Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill restaurant chain will expand to its eleventh location this spring. He is also producing his daughter Krystal’s debut album, to be released later this year.

As part of American Week, Tuesday’s “Macy’s Stars of Dance” performance will be inspired by the classic story of the journey of a small town boy through the Big Apple in pursuit of the American dream. Jamal Sims (“Footloose,” “Rock of “Ages”) will choreograph and star in the moving number, which will feature a variety of iconic New York City scenes. Sims’ other recent choreography credits include the “Step-Up” film series and numbers for such artists as Madonna, Britney Spears and Miley Cyrus.

By Tuesday evening’s end, one couple will be eliminated, as determined by a combination of the judges’ scores and viewers’ votes for Monday’s performance. Who among the eight remaining teams will leave the ballroom floor?

* KIRSTIE ALLEY, television and movie star, and MAKSIM CHMERKOVSKIY
* CHRIS JERICHO, WWE star, with two-time champ CHERYL BURKE
* CHELSEA KANE, Disney star, and two-time champ MARK BALLAS
* RALPH MACCHIO, movie star, and KARINA SMIRNOFF
* PETRA NEMCOVA, supermodel, with DMITRY CHAPLIN
* ROMEO, rapper and actor, teamed up with CHELSIE HIGHTOWER
* HINES WARD, Super Bowl MVP, and Season 9 champion KYM JOHNSON
* KENDRA WILKINSON, reality star, with LOUIS VAN AMSTEL