Bye Bye Ellen

Last week it was announced that Ellen DeGeneres would be leaving the beleagured “American Idol.”

As of late, rumors circulating that the network was looking to shake-up the Idol format and that they may even re-vamp all of the current judges and bring back original producer, Nigel Lythgoe - All mere speculation.

DeGeneres released a statement today regarding what she claims was her decision. “A couple months ago, I let Fox and the ‘American Idol’ producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me,” DeGeneres told the press. We tend to agree - but, the good news is that we have new found respect for DeGeneres for a great effort, despite the critics.

Really, we think Ellen would have been better suited as judge on "So You Think You Can Dance". Just sayin'...

(Photo/Courtesy of Fox Broadcasting, News Corp.)

Smellin' Good...

And, the award for the most CLEVER SOCIAL MEDIA Campaign goes to...

Goodnight Larry...

Its official, Larry King is stepping down from his talk show after 25 years on the air with CNN

“After 25 years," Larry stated that he has decided to take a step back from the nightly grind and wants to take some time for himself and his family. So King will end his run with ‘Larry King Live’ on his own terms, sometime this fall.

To mention, I also began in Radio and definitely have a soft spot for the old time Broadcasters. However, the show is well over due for some new (Younger) talent to revitalize the program and really, make the show relevant once again in a very competitive, fast moving Cable News environment.

Moreover, CNN the entire network needs a complete re-branding strategy and a major overhaul - surely a tremendous task for the marketing department.

More to follow...

The Real Mr. Miyagi

After a Hugely Successful Weekend for Sony's Karate Kid remake...

We would like to take a moment to remember the original Best Supporting Actor version of Mr. Miyagi, played by the late and talented comedian, Pat Morita.

We are sure he is watching the movie from that big Arclight Hollywood theater in the sky.

This one's for you...(Photo/ Wikipedia)

Unpack Your Knives!

The Next Food Network Star returned to some big changes on Sunday for season 6 including the addition of Giada De Laurentiis as a mentor and a spectacular move to Los Angeles.

“We’re using Giada as a mentor figure, where she talks about her experiences being a host on a network, and that’s one more element we didn’t have before", said Co-host Bobby Flay.

Quite frankly, I once overheard a couple in the grocery store bantering the ingredients of one of Giada's recipes (Apparently, they had watched her show and were attempting to make whatever dish that was prepared on television). My immediate thought was...Well, never mind what my initial thought was at the time...Let's just say that I was on the verge of laughing at them in public.

Anyway, back to the show. I appreciate the lively tempo of the new format (Moving to L.A. was an obvious good decision) and a change-up in host/judges also certainly helps to enliven what was once viewed as a very dry program.

I would change a few other things about the show, as well - such as stocking the entire panel with Food Network stars (Why have only one on the panel?), appoint Guy Fieri as host (Agreed, his looks are distracting, but he does bring personality), and completely, unequivocally change the set. Moreover, there are a number of things that I would overhaul about the ENTIRE network - but, that is a discussion for another time (Remind me later).

With the latest season, the show appears to be patterning after Bravo's ultra successful cook-off program Top Chef, which might not be a bad idea...

Your New American Idol

Official Update: Lee Dewyze (dee-wise) Wins The Title of American Idol On The Show's 9th Season.

Congratulations to Lee D. (Although, we were really hoping for Crystal B.), we can accept the fact that the public chose Lee.

Really, Crystal had a very unique style and identifiable sound. Having said, we barely remember anything about Lee's performances (Except something about Hallelujah - song chosen by Simon).

Funny thing about American Idol is that not only have more recent season winners been male and according to @LyndseyParker of Yahoo!, Lee had to win because there is a good ol' boys club transpiring at AI. Possibly true.

We noticed that something else is also transpiring: Homogenization. Meaning, all of the recent winners are more or less the same variation of a version and have miraculously overcome the much more popular, and compelling adversaries. For example, last season's Kris Allen vs. Adam Lambert. Adam was far more individual, visually interesting, and entertaining, as exhibited through his undeniable on stage presence. Kris was barely memorable, nor particularly likable.

The American Formula
We would like to believe that unlike the Miss USA Pageant, in which Donald Trump chooses the winner (Allegedly), that Simon Cowell and Simon Fuller do not choose the winner of American Idol, based whom they feel would have a broader appeal for Sony's A&R, and truly determined by the vote of the people (Despite reported voting discrepancies).

In an industry where individuality is desperately needed (Thank you, Lady Gaga), it is rather dubious that all strangely appears to remain the same.

Ah, but perhaps there is another 'undertow' at work. I submit for your review this conclusion: In past season's of AI, the runner up has always managed to become successful - strangely more than the actual winner...It is possible this could be a pre-determined consequence. Although there was a clear winner announced on the show, the public will ultimately buy the records of the runner up contestant. Ha, we indeed have the REAL winner!

Anyway, best wishes Lee. Crystal, we are looking forward to your album! (Photo/Courtesy of Fox/News Corp.)

Can You Smell What The Rock Is Cooking?

The Rock will co-star in the 5th installment in the "Fast & Furious" franchise with Vin Diesel -both will find their need for "Faster" speed on the same screen.

When we first mentioned this breaking story to Val, we received not a reaction - she simply graced us with a big, gorgeous smile and walked away. Either this was really good news or she has already floated away blissfully in some heavenly ether over the thought of her favorite action star Vin Diesel (Who once complimented her on her fabulous smile) and The Rock, together in the same movie...Translation: If you want anything - now's a very GOOD time to ask.

Anyway, the new storyline for FF5 is about an ex-con who sets out to avenge his brother’s death after they were double-crossed during a heist years ago. During his campaign, however, he’s tracked by a veteran cop and an egocentric hit man.

Hey Universal, you have just made SOMEONE a MAJOR fan who will probably be attending opening night...and probably every subsequent night thereafter...Cheers. (Photos/Associated Press)

Primetime Fallon

“Late Night” host Jimmy Fallon has been summoned to host the 62nd Prime time Emmy Awards (NBC)

Reportedly, Fallon (35) won out over fellow “SNL”-alum Amy Poehler, who also stars on an NBC series, “Parks and Recreation.” It was also rumored that Andy Samberg and Justin Timberlake (Yeah, that choice would have been majorly lame) were in the running, thanks to their moderately silly, bathroom humor “SNL" skein.

Counting current gig, this will be Fallon’s fourth big hosting gig, as he also hosted the 2001 and 2005 MTV Movie Awards and the 2002 MTV Video Music Awards.

Lady Gaga Denied Final Minute!

Lady Gaga recently roiled over edited American Idol appearance

A few weeks prior, Lady Gaga (Guhguh as Larry King calls her...I say, Googoo) appeared on the hit show American Idol for 'live' performance in front of the studio audience. Well, apparently, Ms. GaGa felt the footage was too 'Edited' using the terms "Fox Poorly + Amateurly (Not an actual word) edited + cut her performance..."

First, EVERYTHING on television is edited. The reasons for such are rather obvious: The Clock.

Second, I am wondering if Ms. Gg actually viewed the performance as a number have commented that the performance was A) Too long and B) Too boring. Really, Ms. Gg should be pleased that the performance was cut short and edited well within the time constraints - the point of her performance was illustrated and the promotion/commotion should generate plenty 'o ticket sales for the real, LIVE concert. (Photo/ AP)

Bring On The Betty!

Last Week 88-year-old Betty White made her much anticipated debut as host of Saturday Night Live (NBC) and thanks to Facebook fans, there was no disappointment.

Which proves my point, 'Hey Networks, Social Media rules!' - They were laughing at one point about all of this Social Media 'stuff' - NOW who's laughing, baby!

Some of the highlights of the episode included a death metal version of the Golden Girls theme-song (Liked it), Betty’s role as a muffin chef on NPR, and her ability to have fun with her age, even getting a little raunchy at times (A little uncomfortable)

Ah, it's a great time to be Betty White...Banner year. (Photo/ Associated Press)

Please Pass The Salt

Finally, an Action Film after my own heart (Read into that what you will...).
Thank you, Sony!

Summer O' Movies...

Looking for something to do this summer?

After this past weekend's franchise blockbuster Iron Man 2 earning a mere $130 million at the domestic box office (In addition to the $100 million plus earned the previous weekend overseas) - we are now something like $250 million total in 2 weeks. We have officially began the summer movie season.

Albeit, without affable Will Smith, who may more than likely return to his throne of "King of the Summer Blockbuster Movies" via Men In Black 3 or even perhaps in 'brilliant' alien agenda disaster flick, Independence Day 2.

Moreover, I usually enjoy posting my annual guide to the summer movie season, 'Valerie St. John's Annual Guide to the Summer Movie Season' - catchy title, yes? More important and not to disappoint, we will have yet another published version to host your 2010 viewing.

Stay Close....

The Return of The Iron...

Iron Man 2 has already cleared $100 million overseas.

The GOOD news, I have only viewed the trailer. Now the possible bad news, there appeared to be way too much going on with the story...If this is possible with a Comic Book movie...

Quite frankly, if there are more than one or two "Name Talent Above The Line", I get nervous - immediate images of an over-inflated budget due to too many plots, stunts, sub plots, story lines, and characters written into the movie for the benefit of having said name(s) in the picture, as an ensemble cast, is a great reason of moderate concern.

Let's take Talent roll call: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Scarlett Johansson, Mickey Rourke, Sam Jackson (My favorite), Don Cheadle (Who replaces creepy Terrance Howard), and Sam Rockwell (Another favorite).

Now, supplement with excessive gratuitous explosions, loud music, snarky dialog, over the top irreverence, advanced weaponry (My favorite subject), military presence, a bad guy (Preferably foreign with accent), a $100 million dollar production budget and you have yourself a summer initiating blockbuster. Simple.

Let's hope for the best...

The film is scheduled to debut in North America on Friday. A Nightmare on Elm Street grabbed the latest No. 1 domestic box office spot last weekend with $32.2 million (Congratulations, there will be a NOES Part 4).

Idol Gave Back...

The Annual American Idol Gives Back Show Aired Last Week, Hoping to Raise $45 Million for Charity...

My immediate question was, "Which Charity"? While I appreciate the premise of the program - a televised telethon and Jerry Lewis has been presenting a star filled show for the Muscular Dystrophy Association with tremendous success for years. Why shouldn't a popular television program do the same?
Ah, but this is where the story begins to defy reasonability - Despite the ambiguous and unmentioned specifics during the show (Mosquito Nets will stop the spread of Malaria - Well, how about a vaccine?!), the program felt largely contrite and slightly disingenuous instead of warm and fuzzy.

The performances, pace, arrangements and special celebrity and guest appearances were indeed impressive. However after an extended viewing, the show began to feel more like a brow beating late-night infomercial. The spin: Corporate sponsors and special interests thinly veiled to appear acting in the interest of charity (Phone company says, "Text your donation to...").

Despite the "Cheese factor", the $45 million is expected to rise when proceeds from iTunes sales are added, according to Fox. (Photo/Fox Television Broadcasting)

Goodbye and Hello Gosselin (Again)

Working Reality Mom of 8 Kate Gosselin was finally voted off of Dancing With The Stars last week.

Kate was sent to the bottom two at the beginning of the show and was subsequently voted off. She proceeded to get teary-eyed when Tom Bergeron announced she would be leaving. “I need a minute,” she said through her tears.

Really, Kate was arguably the mot interesting contestant this season, perhaps even out of any season, the ratings are noticeably in slight decline from the previous week - You Love Kate Gosselin - Who doesn't . The good news is that Kate is already onto the next show, with family in towe (All 8 of 'em)...Thanks, TLC. (Photo/Credit Adam Larkey, ABC)

The Glee Is Over...

Last week marked the much anticipated return of Glee (Fox). The new season promises to bigger and more vibrant the first...

Only one problem - I'm burned out already on the show and we're only at the 2nd episode. Perhaps it was all of the pre-Glee hype (Season 1 on DVD, music tours, pap photos, awards ceremonies, ET AL)....It was all just too much. It appears the novelty of the show may have quickly worn thin. (Photo/Fox, News corp.)

Attn Hollywood: Your Flight Has Been Canceled

Roger Ebert shared this photo -

Although, this is not related to our usual fare (Television Entertainment), we thought this was an AMAZING photo of the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano in Iceland and had to share it with you. (Photo/Roger Ebert)

The Fey-Palin Network

Tina Fey returned to Saturday Night Live last week garnering record ratings. Fey brought her famous Sarah Palin impression as well as tween heartthrob, Justin Bieber.

According to those who actually watched, Palin played her famous Palin routine, a Palin-esque black leather jacket, and an American flag pin, to tout a fake Sarah Palin Network. The networks programs included “Tea Party Wheel of Fortune”, “Are you Smarter Than a Half-Term Governor”, “Dateline: To Catch a Levi Johnston”, and “Hey Journalist, I Gotcha!”, which used re-edited news footage to show Palin outsmarting Katie Couric.

SNL is milking this get-up for all it's worth. Hilarious. (Photo/People)

The Late-Night Late Night

Onward & Upward Kev!
Oh No! Has it been 6-weeks already? Former Late Night Show/The Jay Leno Show Band Master Kevin Eubanks has confirmed that after 18 years (Really?), he's ready for a change and will be leaving in May.


Meanwhile....
Although publicly banned from being funny (?), Conan O'Brien is bringing his late-night act to Time Warner-owned cable network TBS, breaking off talks with Fox and making plans to move to cable in November. Allegedly, the show will be opposite of Jay Leno's Late-Night time slot....Let the Games Begin!



(Photos/ NBC Universal, AP)

The Big Life...

Kirstie Alley Brings Her Big Plight Back To Television In A New Reality Series...

Sources tell us that Alley’s new series“Kirstie Alley’s Big Life” on A&E was originally pitched as a "Biggest Loser" style weight loss show, but is now rather Alley herself.

We are big fans of A&E and had an opportunity to watch one of the initial episodes and found it funny/entertaining. Kirstie has always appeared to be self-driven and this new series certainly presents a more vulnerable, human side of the actress with her on-going personal battle (Ego included) of her weight. Well, remember Kirstie's appearance in a bathing suit on Oprah a few years back?

Although we are definitely down with a woman trying to look and be her best, we would really like to feel as if Alley's efforts are sincere and genuine (We unfollowed @kirstiealley on Twitter), but heard something about her launching a weight loss program (ala Jillian Michaels style -we unfollowed @jillianmichaels as well) similar to Jenny Craig - an endeavor that she has been working on over the past 2 years since leaving as JC spokesperson.

We say: Rule Your Empire Queen!

Kirstie Alley's Big Life airs Sundays at 10 PM on A&E.