Monday, May 14, 2007
Trump's Show Left Off Newly Unveiled NBC Lineup
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - NBC is close to telling Donald Trump "You're fired," but the network is holding back just in case they could use him at the last minute.The future of his NBC series "The Apprentice" was cast into extreme doubt on Monday by the network's announcement of a 2007-08 programming lineup that made no mention of Trump or the corporate-themed reality show he hosts.
Such an omission, coming at the outset of the networks' annual "upfront" advertising market, would normally spell doom for a low-rated show like "The Apprentice." But NBC executives refused to absolutely rule out an 11th-hour reprieve for Trump's show.
"The Apprentice," which turned billionaire Trump into a TV star and introduced his catch phrase "You're fired," features a group of young, aggressive entrepreneurs in a weekly game of elimination as they vie for a real-life job in Trump's business empire. But the series has lost nearly two-thirds of its audience since its first and most successful run in the spring of 2004.
Asked whether "Apprentice" was now effectively dead, NBC Entertainment President Kevin Reilly insisted, "Not yet."
He said NBC would wait until after the other major networks have unveiled their new programming lineups before rendering a final judgment on the fate of Trump's show.
"Donald still wants to do the show. (Executive producer) Mark (Burnett) wants to do the show," Reilly said. "We couldn't find the right spot for it. So we're going to regroup after everybody announces their schedule. We're going to look at everything in context and then make a decision about it."
There was no immediate comment from Trump.
"The Apprentice" achieved hit status during its original incarnation, averaging 20.7 million viewers with help from a huge ratings "lead-in" following the mega-hit comedy "Friends" on the NBC schedule during that show's final season.
But the show has suffered a steady ratings decline since then, hitting an audience low of just 7.5 million viewers for the recently concluded sixth edition set in Los Angeles.
Trump and NBC still have other joint interests, however.
The two announced in March a renewed deal to keep annual broadcasts of the
Miss USA and
Miss Universe pageants, which Trump co-owns, on the General Electric Co.-controlled network through 2010.
"We want to stay in business with Donald in whatever format that will take," Reilly said on Monday. "The guy has a certain magic. We love him."
"King of Queens" Star Looks Back On "Amazing" Run
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Critics like to talk about shows using pejoratives such as "formulaic" and "predictable," but CBS' "The King of Queens" turned those negatives into positives.
The show, revolving around the improbable marriage of a blue-collar deliveryman with a monstrous appetite (
Kevin James) and his long-suffering wife (
Leah Remini), ends its nine-year run Monday with a one-hour episode.
Cut from the same cloth as "The Honeymooners," the comedy was dependably funny. Audiences quickly got comfortable with the couple's weekly bickering, knowing that deep down they truly loved each other.
James recently discussed the show's awkward start and the (vague) possibility of a reunion.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: CRITICS WERE NOT KIND TO "THE KING
OF QUEENS" WHEN IT DEBUTED, SO IT MUST FEEL PRETTY GOOD RIGHT
NOW NOT ONLY TO HAVE PROVEN THEM WRONG BUT TO HAVE SEEN THE NEW
YORK TIMES WRITE ABOUT THE SHOW'S CREATIVE RESURGENCE IN THE
LAST FEW SEASONS.
Kevin James: Whether they like or don't like the show, that's fine, you know? It's very difficult in the beginning to identify with a character. It takes a little while, and if a show can survive long enough for people to really get into the characters and identify with them, that's a great thing. Unfortunately, a lot of decent shows don't get that opportunity, and they're canceled really quick when they could have turned out to be a great show as well.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE KEY TO THE
SHOW'S SUCCESS? MOST SHOWS DON'T REACH 100 EPISODES, LET ALONE 200 THESE DAYS.
James: I think in the beginning, we were in a hammock spot. We were in between "Cosby" and "Everybody Loves Raymond," and "Raymond" was kind of doing really well, and we kind of piggybacked on them for a while until we got strong enough legs. We kind of developed a little audience that followed us and liked us, and when they moved us, we panicked, but we held on like they couldn't kill us.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: HOW DOES IT FEEL TO LEAVE BEHIND A
CHARACTER THAT YOU'VE PLAYED FOR NINE YEARS?
James: No doubt about it, it's amazing. It's longer than I've done anything in my life. I've never held a job for that long, so in that respect it's bittersweet, you know? You look back, and you're proud of what you did, and you're like, "Wow, this was really a great run." But you just miss everybody so much -- it's this feeling of, "How can we re-create this? Can we go on more?" It's so sad because right down to everybody on the crew, I spent more time with them than I did with my actual family in the last nine years.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: YOU'RE STARRING IN UNIVERSAL'S
COMEDY "I NOW PRONOUNCE YOU CHUCK AND LARRY" WITH ADAM SANDLER
THIS JULY. ARE YOU PLANNING ON PURSUING FILM FULL TIME NOW, OR
WOULD YOU EVER CONSIDER DOING ANOTHER PRIMETIME SERIES?
James: I would! Not right away -- I think people are kind of sick of me in primetime. I'm going to enjoy my daughter, (and) we've got another girl on the way, so I'm going to be enjoying them for a little bit. But definitely, I would never rule out doing a sitcom again because I just had so much fun. The hours are the greatest, and as much as I love film -- and I do -- there's no replacement for that live audience. It's something that I've grown accustomed to over the last 10 years, and it's something I know I'm going to miss. I get it a little bit with stand-up, but I just miss doing a different play every week.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: IT SEEMS LIKE IT GIVES YOU AN
OPPORTUNITY TO KIND OF REINVENT THE SHOW EVERY WEEK. IF YOU'RE
NOT HAPPY WITH ONE EPISODE, YOU'VE GOT NEXT WEEK.
James: Exactly. It's like we did 207 very short movies. When you're working on a movie for what could be two years from writing to (shooting) and editing, if it's something that doesn't do well, it's so brutal. I feel for these people that have movies bomb out of the gate -- it's out of the theater a couple weeks later, and it's gone. It's so much effort for this one night, one weekend. That is the one benefit of a TV show: If you miss one week, you go, "All right, we'll get 'em next week."
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: SO, SHOULD WE KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR
"THE KING OF QUEENS" REUNION SHOW IN A COUPLE YEARS?
James: I wouldn't hold your breath, but who knows? You never know. I'll never say never. I'm one of those guys who may just do it for my own benefit, just have them come over -- and we'll just act out a play in my house.
The show, revolving around the improbable marriage of a blue-collar deliveryman with a monstrous appetite (
Kevin James) and his long-suffering wife (
Leah Remini), ends its nine-year run Monday with a one-hour episode.
Cut from the same cloth as "The Honeymooners," the comedy was dependably funny. Audiences quickly got comfortable with the couple's weekly bickering, knowing that deep down they truly loved each other.
James recently discussed the show's awkward start and the (vague) possibility of a reunion.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: CRITICS WERE NOT KIND TO "THE KING
OF QUEENS" WHEN IT DEBUTED, SO IT MUST FEEL PRETTY GOOD RIGHT
NOW NOT ONLY TO HAVE PROVEN THEM WRONG BUT TO HAVE SEEN THE NEW
YORK TIMES WRITE ABOUT THE SHOW'S CREATIVE RESURGENCE IN THE
LAST FEW SEASONS.
Kevin James: Whether they like or don't like the show, that's fine, you know? It's very difficult in the beginning to identify with a character. It takes a little while, and if a show can survive long enough for people to really get into the characters and identify with them, that's a great thing. Unfortunately, a lot of decent shows don't get that opportunity, and they're canceled really quick when they could have turned out to be a great show as well.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE KEY TO THE
SHOW'S SUCCESS? MOST SHOWS DON'T REACH 100 EPISODES, LET ALONE 200 THESE DAYS.
James: I think in the beginning, we were in a hammock spot. We were in between "Cosby" and "Everybody Loves Raymond," and "Raymond" was kind of doing really well, and we kind of piggybacked on them for a while until we got strong enough legs. We kind of developed a little audience that followed us and liked us, and when they moved us, we panicked, but we held on like they couldn't kill us.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: HOW DOES IT FEEL TO LEAVE BEHIND A
CHARACTER THAT YOU'VE PLAYED FOR NINE YEARS?
James: No doubt about it, it's amazing. It's longer than I've done anything in my life. I've never held a job for that long, so in that respect it's bittersweet, you know? You look back, and you're proud of what you did, and you're like, "Wow, this was really a great run." But you just miss everybody so much -- it's this feeling of, "How can we re-create this? Can we go on more?" It's so sad because right down to everybody on the crew, I spent more time with them than I did with my actual family in the last nine years.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: YOU'RE STARRING IN UNIVERSAL'S
COMEDY "I NOW PRONOUNCE YOU CHUCK AND LARRY" WITH ADAM SANDLER
THIS JULY. ARE YOU PLANNING ON PURSUING FILM FULL TIME NOW, OR
WOULD YOU EVER CONSIDER DOING ANOTHER PRIMETIME SERIES?
James: I would! Not right away -- I think people are kind of sick of me in primetime. I'm going to enjoy my daughter, (and) we've got another girl on the way, so I'm going to be enjoying them for a little bit. But definitely, I would never rule out doing a sitcom again because I just had so much fun. The hours are the greatest, and as much as I love film -- and I do -- there's no replacement for that live audience. It's something that I've grown accustomed to over the last 10 years, and it's something I know I'm going to miss. I get it a little bit with stand-up, but I just miss doing a different play every week.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: IT SEEMS LIKE IT GIVES YOU AN
OPPORTUNITY TO KIND OF REINVENT THE SHOW EVERY WEEK. IF YOU'RE
NOT HAPPY WITH ONE EPISODE, YOU'VE GOT NEXT WEEK.
James: Exactly. It's like we did 207 very short movies. When you're working on a movie for what could be two years from writing to (shooting) and editing, if it's something that doesn't do well, it's so brutal. I feel for these people that have movies bomb out of the gate -- it's out of the theater a couple weeks later, and it's gone. It's so much effort for this one night, one weekend. That is the one benefit of a TV show: If you miss one week, you go, "All right, we'll get 'em next week."
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: SO, SHOULD WE KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR
"THE KING OF QUEENS" REUNION SHOW IN A COUPLE YEARS?
James: I wouldn't hold your breath, but who knows? You never know. I'll never say never. I'm one of those guys who may just do it for my own benefit, just have them come over -- and we'll just act out a play in my house.
Few Minorities Appear On U.S. News Talk Shows
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The influential Sunday news talk shows aired by U.S. television networks are overwhelmingly dominated by white men, with women, blacks and Latinos having little presence, a liberal media watchdog said on Monday.
About one in five guests on the programs were women, said the group, Media Matters for America, which studied four network Sunday news talk shows over a two-year period.
Blacks made up about 7 percent of those appearing on most of the programs, while Latinos made up about 1 percent, Media Matters said. In all, about seven out of every eight guests in 2005 and 2006 was white, the group said.
"Our report demonstrates the all-important Sunday shows are seriously lacking a meaningful presence of women and people of color," said David Brock, president of Media Matters.
The report came a month after radio host Don Imus lost his network television and radio shows for using a racial slur to describe the mostly black women's basketball team at Rutgers University.
The networks and prominent journalists who frequented Imus' show were criticized at the time because they had previously supported the program despite his track record of racist and sexist language.
Some critics said the Imus situation occurred in part because of a lack of diversity in the network newsrooms.
About one in five guests on the programs were women, said the group, Media Matters for America, which studied four network Sunday news talk shows over a two-year period.
Blacks made up about 7 percent of those appearing on most of the programs, while Latinos made up about 1 percent, Media Matters said. In all, about seven out of every eight guests in 2005 and 2006 was white, the group said.
"Our report demonstrates the all-important Sunday shows are seriously lacking a meaningful presence of women and people of color," said David Brock, president of Media Matters.
The report came a month after radio host Don Imus lost his network television and radio shows for using a racial slur to describe the mostly black women's basketball team at Rutgers University.
The networks and prominent journalists who frequented Imus' show were criticized at the time because they had previously supported the program despite his track record of racist and sexist language.
Some critics said the Imus situation occurred in part because of a lack of diversity in the network newsrooms.
NBC Takes Wraps Off New TV Schedule; Sci-Fi Rules
NEW YORK/LOS ANGELES - NBC is turning to science fiction this fall to lift ratings and appease advertisers and investors with new dramas whose story lines range from robotics to time travel.Taking the wraps off its fall prime-time schedule on Monday, NBC executives made it clear that they were hoping to build on the success of the network's supernatural hit "Heroes" by introducing sci-fi dramas "Journeyman," "Chuck" and "The Bionic Woman" for the 2007-08 broadcast season.
The lineup is crucial for NBC, which has languished in a ratings rut since longtime comedy favorites "Friends" and "Frasier" ended three years ago. It trails in fourth place behind News Corp.'s Fox, CBS and Walt Disney Co.'s ABC in Nielsen rankings.
"I really feel great about what we're going to be rolling out today," NBC Entertainment President Kevin Reilly said during a conference call before the network officially unveils the lineup to advertisers later on Monday.
"We've got quality, and we're going to build out and add some breadth to our schedule, which is what we've needed," he added in introducing the lineup of five new dramas and one new comedy show.
The General Electric Co.-controlled broadcaster is kicking off the annual "upfront" advertising market in which some $9 billion in prime-time commercial commitments for the 2007-08 broadcast will be booked.
Negotiations between advertisers and the networks are likely to take longer than usual this year as both sides try to find out how to best structure deals to fit the changing TV landscape.
The spread of digital video recorders and the broadcast of shows over the Internet have transformed the way Americans watch TV.
Audience measurement standards are also changing. New ratings, slated for wide availability this year, will count how many people watch commercials or recordings of shows.
NBC executives have responded by aggressively pushing digital deals, saying on Monday that all programming will carry features like virtual tours of show sets.
The company's move toward digital was underscored recently when parent NBC Universal reached a deal with News Corp. to launch this summer a free online video site featuring movies and TV shows. Analysts see the venture as an attempt to challenge Google Inc.'s highly popular YouTube.
FALL LINEUP
NBC's schedule will get close scrutiny, given the pressure it is under to improve ratings. Some Wall Street analysts have even floated the idea that GE spin off NBC Universal because of its lackluster performance.
New shows will include a remake of the 1970s series "The Bionic Woman," a drama called "Journeyman" about a time-traveling journalist, and "Chuck," about a young computer whiz who becomes a government agent after espionage secrets are downloaded into his brain.
NBC also has ordered a second season of its critically praised but low-rated teen football drama, "Friday Night Lights," which won the prestigious Peabody Award last month.
Other shows that will be back for another season include "The Biggest Loser," "The Office," "30 Rock," "Deal or No Deal," "My Name Is Earl," "Las Vegas," "Scrubs," "ER," "Law & Order" and "Law & Order: SVU."
Another version of the "Law & Order" crime-drama series, "Law & Order: Criminal Intent," will move to NBC Universal's USA cable network for original broadcasts. Repeats will then run on NBC, a reversal of the normal pattern where shows first air on network and then move to cable.
Among high-profile shows, NBC has canceled "Crossing Jordan" and "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip," while saying it has not yet decided on the fate of real estate mogul Donald Trump's "The Apprentice."
Besides "The Bionic Woman," "Journeyman" and "Chuck," NBC is picking up a new drama, "Life," about a wrongly imprisoned police officer returning to the force.
NBC is also picking up variety and game shows "1 Vs. 100" and "The Singing Bee," which will run for eight and six weeks, respectively, in the fall.
Later in the year, NBC will roll out "The Lipstick Jungle," based on a best-selling book by "Sex and the City" writer Candace Bushnell. It will also introduce the "IT Crowd," a comedy about misunderstood techies, during the 2007-08 season.
Bhutan Wonders If TV Really Brings Happiness
SOBSA, Bhutan - Since cable television first arrived in her tiny village in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan two years ago, 55-year-old Kencho Om keeps getting in trouble with her husband for staying up late watching movies."My husband scolds me, he says at this age I should be spending my time saying my prayers," she said, sitting on the bare floorboards of her front room, the walls broken only by a shelf on which her small television set is perched.
"He says that after I die, instead of doing the funeral rituals, he will just put my body next to a television."
Bhutan's citizens first started watching television after then-King Jigme Singye Wangchuck bowed to the inevitable in 1999 and allowed it into his isolated Buddhist realm.
Since then, it has been blamed for destroying family life, bringing crime and juvenile delinquency to this peaceful land and undermining ancient traditions.
This is a country that lived in a mediaeval bubble a generation ago. When the first jeep arrived in the capital Thimpu in the 1960s, locals ran in fear of the fire-breathing dragon. Others brought it cattle feed.
Less than four decades later, Bhutan was suddenly confronted with 45 channels of the outside world.
Wangchuck is famous for proposing that Gross National Happiness was more important than Gross National Product, that traditions, trust and the environment were as important as the ruthless pursuit of material gain.
Yet almost overnight the Bhutanese were presented with an alternative vision -- of glamour and wealth -- and bombarded with advertisements for products they never knew they had missed.
Information and Communication Minister Leki Dorji says the government is beginning to wonder what it has unleashed.
"What we are asking is this: 'does television make you happier or less happy?'," he told Reuters. "It raises your expectations, probably making you more unhappy."
The people of Bhutan do not seem to agree. A study carried out by the information ministry in 2003 found that many people felt television had broadened their minds.
More than 66 percent said television had had a positive impact on society, while just 7.3 percent disagreed.
DESTROYING FAMILY LIFE?
Still, criticism persists. Petty crime and recreational drugs, almost unheard of a decade ago, have arrived in the last decade.
"Advertisements create desires, which cannot be satisfied by people's current economic position," wrote Phuntsho Rapten of the Centre for Bhutan Studies. "Crimes and corruption are often born out of economic desires."
But it is not just television which is to blame. Thousands of people have migrated from the countryside to towns, and many have not found jobs.
There are benefits, too -- television can bring families together in the evening, and keep fathers at home rather than out drinking. Alcohol is the leading form of death in Bhutan and a traditional pastime.
Yet many men share the reservations of Om's husband.
"I hate television," said Chencho Tshering, acting managing director of Kuensel, the state-owned newspaper, reminiscing about a recent night when the cable service went down.
His wife was deprived of her Hindi soap operas and his three daughters missed "Friends" and the Cartoon Network, but the whole family came together and started talking about the past.
"That was the best night I can remember since 1999," he said.
WRESTLING BANNED
The education children get from television is not something all Bhutanese parents relish. A craze for American wrestling swept the country's schools after TV was introduced.
Teachers have complained that city children were watching late into the night and were less focused in class as a result.
The government has responded by banning Ten Sports, which carried the wrestling, as well as MTV and Fashion TV.
It has not been an entirely successful experiment -- wrestling appeared on other channels, while football fans complain bitterly as the ban deprives them of Europe's Champions League.
Tshering Yonten, media director in the information ministry, says there was a need to regulate what people watch.
"The issue is not to deprive people, but the government has to take some responsibility."
Some Bhutanese worry that their traditions are threatened by the march of globalization. Yet national culture is unlikely to roll over and die.
Young people dress like their foreign idols in the evening, but have to go to work in the traditional knee-length gown, or gho, worn with long socks.
Bhutan's public broadcaster, launched in a hurry three months after the king's move to allow television, is now broadcasting its own, increasingly popular soap opera.
And Bhutan has suddenly found its own film industry, which dominates the cinemas of Thimpu.
Back in Sobsa, her teeth stained red with chewing betel nut and her feet caked with mud, Om disagrees with the TV bashers.
Every night she escapes to Bollywood films of
Salman Khan, to wildlife documentaries or American war movies.
"Without television, life is quite boring here," she said. "It is good to see the outside world. I've seen Japanese farmers cultivating rice, and it's almost the same as we do it here."
Friday, May 4, 2007
'American Idol' cuts Phil Stacey and Chris Richardson, reveals Top 4
Phil Stacey and Chris Richardson became the seventh and eight finalists eliminated from American Idol's sixth season during Wednesday night's live broadcast of the Fox reality show's results show.
Stacey, a 29-year-old from Jacksonville, FL, and Richardson, a 22-year-old from Chesapeake, VA, were sent packing after "just over 135 million votes" were cast based on a combination of last Tuesday night's Idol Gives Back performances of inspirational songs and last night's renditions of Bon Jovi songs. Richardson and Stacey were the two finalists who received the least amount of combined votes during the two voting periods.
Stacey was the first of the two to be told he was eliminated after Idol host Ryan Seacrest revealed both Lakisha Jones, a 27-year-old from Fort Meade, MD, and Melinda Doolittle, a 29-year-old from Brentwood, TN, had both made Idol's season sixth Top 4.
During last Tuesday night's Idol Gives Back performance episode, Stacey sang "The Change" by Garth Brooks. Idol judge Randy Jackson called it a "strong performance on a very nice vocal on a very great song;" Paula Abdul described it as his "best;" and Simon Cowell thought it was nice to see Stacey "with a spring in [his] step" and "confidence." During last night's performance episode, Stacey sang Bon Jovi's "Blaze of Glory." Jackson thought it was Stacey's " best performance ever on this show" and Abdul called it "the best opening I think we've had all season long." However Cowell said it was just "okay" and described Stacey as "a bad actor playing a role" before cryptically predicting, " I don't think you've done enough to last next week."
"My entire involvement with American Idol is for my children... absolutely," said Stacey -- whose wife gave birth to the couple's second child while he was auditioning for Idol in Memphis this past summer -- during a video montage of his Idol journey. Instead of Idol 5 finalist Chris Daughtry's "Home" playing during the montage, Idol 4 champ Carrie Underwood's rendition of "I'll Stand By You," a performance she'd recorded for Idol Gives Back, was used.
Seacrest then revealed that Jordin Sparks, a 17-year-old from Glendale, AZ, was joining Jones and Doolittle as a member of Idol 6's Top 4, leaving only one spot for Richardson and Blake Lewis, a 25-year-old from Bothell, WA. Before Seacrest revealed who was going home, Bon Jovi performed on the Idol stage. Seacrest then asked Bon Jovi frontman Jon Bon Jovi, "You want to call it?" -- asking him to predict if Richardson or Lewis were safe. "Not on your life buddy," Bon Jovi responded.
During last Tuesday night's Idol Gives Back performance episode, Richardson sang "Change the World" by Eric Clapton. Jackson said Richardson seemed "in it to win it;" Abdul said she was "really proud... to see [his] journey from the beginning to where [he is] now;" and Cowell thought it was a "good vocal" and "sexy performance." During last night's performance episode, Richardson sang Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive." Jackson was glad Richardson put his own "R&B twists and turns on it" and Abdul said it was a "good job." Meanwhile, Cowell was less committal, saying that Richardson "did as much as [he] could possibly do with that song" but -- similar to what he'd previously done with Stacey -- cryptically remarking that "whether it's good enough to stay another week, I'm not sure."
Lewis and Richardson described themselves as "best friends" as they waited for Seacrest to reveal which was safe. When Seacrest announced that Lewis would be the one joining Sparks, Doolittle and Jones as the Idol's only male Top 4 finalist, Lewis and Richardson embraced. "Thank you everybody for keeping me in this long!" said Richardson.
"This is my path, and this is one I've been wanting to go down for a long time," said Richardson during a video montage of his Idol experience, which was accompanied by Daughtry's "Home." "I think it's just the beginning of what I have to offer."
During the results show broadcast, Seacrest also revealed that Idol received 25,000 entries for its songwriting competition, and has selected the 20 original song submissions that remain in the running to become the Idol finale song that will later be recorded and released by the season's winner. Voting will take place on Idol's americanidol.com website and remain open until Tuesday, May 8.
Next week, American Idol's four remaining sixth season finalists -- Melinda Doolittle, Lakisha Jones, Blake Lewis, and Jordin Sparks -- will all perform live on Tuesday, May 8 beginning at 8PM ET on Fox and be mentored by former Bee Gee Barry Gibb. Then on Wednesday, May 9 at 9PM ET the field of finalists will be narrowed to the season's Top 3.
Stacey, a 29-year-old from Jacksonville, FL, and Richardson, a 22-year-old from Chesapeake, VA, were sent packing after "just over 135 million votes" were cast based on a combination of last Tuesday night's Idol Gives Back performances of inspirational songs and last night's renditions of Bon Jovi songs. Richardson and Stacey were the two finalists who received the least amount of combined votes during the two voting periods.
Stacey was the first of the two to be told he was eliminated after Idol host Ryan Seacrest revealed both Lakisha Jones, a 27-year-old from Fort Meade, MD, and Melinda Doolittle, a 29-year-old from Brentwood, TN, had both made Idol's season sixth Top 4.
During last Tuesday night's Idol Gives Back performance episode, Stacey sang "The Change" by Garth Brooks. Idol judge Randy Jackson called it a "strong performance on a very nice vocal on a very great song;" Paula Abdul described it as his "best;" and Simon Cowell thought it was nice to see Stacey "with a spring in [his] step" and "confidence." During last night's performance episode, Stacey sang Bon Jovi's "Blaze of Glory." Jackson thought it was Stacey's " best performance ever on this show" and Abdul called it "the best opening I think we've had all season long." However Cowell said it was just "okay" and described Stacey as "a bad actor playing a role" before cryptically predicting, " I don't think you've done enough to last next week."
"My entire involvement with American Idol is for my children... absolutely," said Stacey -- whose wife gave birth to the couple's second child while he was auditioning for Idol in Memphis this past summer -- during a video montage of his Idol journey. Instead of Idol 5 finalist Chris Daughtry's "Home" playing during the montage, Idol 4 champ Carrie Underwood's rendition of "I'll Stand By You," a performance she'd recorded for Idol Gives Back, was used.
Seacrest then revealed that Jordin Sparks, a 17-year-old from Glendale, AZ, was joining Jones and Doolittle as a member of Idol 6's Top 4, leaving only one spot for Richardson and Blake Lewis, a 25-year-old from Bothell, WA. Before Seacrest revealed who was going home, Bon Jovi performed on the Idol stage. Seacrest then asked Bon Jovi frontman Jon Bon Jovi, "You want to call it?" -- asking him to predict if Richardson or Lewis were safe. "Not on your life buddy," Bon Jovi responded.
During last Tuesday night's Idol Gives Back performance episode, Richardson sang "Change the World" by Eric Clapton. Jackson said Richardson seemed "in it to win it;" Abdul said she was "really proud... to see [his] journey from the beginning to where [he is] now;" and Cowell thought it was a "good vocal" and "sexy performance." During last night's performance episode, Richardson sang Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive." Jackson was glad Richardson put his own "R&B twists and turns on it" and Abdul said it was a "good job." Meanwhile, Cowell was less committal, saying that Richardson "did as much as [he] could possibly do with that song" but -- similar to what he'd previously done with Stacey -- cryptically remarking that "whether it's good enough to stay another week, I'm not sure."
Lewis and Richardson described themselves as "best friends" as they waited for Seacrest to reveal which was safe. When Seacrest announced that Lewis would be the one joining Sparks, Doolittle and Jones as the Idol's only male Top 4 finalist, Lewis and Richardson embraced. "Thank you everybody for keeping me in this long!" said Richardson.
"This is my path, and this is one I've been wanting to go down for a long time," said Richardson during a video montage of his Idol experience, which was accompanied by Daughtry's "Home." "I think it's just the beginning of what I have to offer."
During the results show broadcast, Seacrest also revealed that Idol received 25,000 entries for its songwriting competition, and has selected the 20 original song submissions that remain in the running to become the Idol finale song that will later be recorded and released by the season's winner. Voting will take place on Idol's americanidol.com website and remain open until Tuesday, May 8.
Next week, American Idol's four remaining sixth season finalists -- Melinda Doolittle, Lakisha Jones, Blake Lewis, and Jordin Sparks -- will all perform live on Tuesday, May 8 beginning at 8PM ET on Fox and be mentored by former Bee Gee Barry Gibb. Then on Wednesday, May 9 at 9PM ET the field of finalists will be narrowed to the season's Top 3.
Ex-'Idol 6' finalist Sanjaya Malakar gets cold shoulder from hometown
Sanjaya Malakar was the talk of Tinsletown, the Big Apple and everywhere in-between during his run as a finalist on American Idol's sixth season. But his hometown of Federal Way, WA won't be erecting a statue of the 17-year-old anytime soon.
"Federal Way has more important things to deal with, and unless a council member tried to push through a proclamation, then that Idol wannabe should not expect a similar honor," Town Manager Neal Beets told a local television station prior to Malakar's Idol elimination, the New York Post reported Tuesday.
A "city hall source" from Federal Way told the Post that suggestions for a day honoring Malakar "came from people on the East Coast" and added the city is hesitant to do anything that would cost its taxpayers.
"Maybe if [the fans] had gone to the chamber of commerce it would be a different story," the source told the Post.
Even if locals did want to honor Malakar for his creative coifs and less-than-sparkling singing abilities it would be a first, as Federal Way Mayor Mike Park said the city has never honored anyone with their own "special day" in its 17-year history. Park's not even sure how close of a connection Malakar and his kin have to Federal Way to begin with.
"It's not as if they have deep roots in the community," Park told the Post.
The roots may not have been deep, but they existed -- most notably growing from the 300-plus marijuana plants Malakar's mom Jillian Blith and his stepfather Charles Quist were both busted for growing in the family's Federal Way garage in February 2005. While Malakar attended area schools before he dropped-out during his sophomore year of high school after passing the GED exam, he's reportedly also called California and Hawaii home throughout his young life. Still, some Federal Way residents aren't as quick as Park and Beets to dismiss festivities centered on the former Idol 6 finalist.
"I would love to do something," Tiffany Archibald, the director of marketing of a mall near Malakar's home, told a local paper according to the Post. "I just can't find him."
After doing the regular press tour following his elimination -- and then some -- Malakar has apparently retreated out of the spotlight for the time being. When he'll emerge is still anyone's guess, but "fanjayas" need not worry, as he'll at least be a member of this summer's Idol 6 tour.
"Federal Way has more important things to deal with, and unless a council member tried to push through a proclamation, then that Idol wannabe should not expect a similar honor," Town Manager Neal Beets told a local television station prior to Malakar's Idol elimination, the New York Post reported Tuesday.
A "city hall source" from Federal Way told the Post that suggestions for a day honoring Malakar "came from people on the East Coast" and added the city is hesitant to do anything that would cost its taxpayers.
"Maybe if [the fans] had gone to the chamber of commerce it would be a different story," the source told the Post.
Even if locals did want to honor Malakar for his creative coifs and less-than-sparkling singing abilities it would be a first, as Federal Way Mayor Mike Park said the city has never honored anyone with their own "special day" in its 17-year history. Park's not even sure how close of a connection Malakar and his kin have to Federal Way to begin with.
"It's not as if they have deep roots in the community," Park told the Post.
The roots may not have been deep, but they existed -- most notably growing from the 300-plus marijuana plants Malakar's mom Jillian Blith and his stepfather Charles Quist were both busted for growing in the family's Federal Way garage in February 2005. While Malakar attended area schools before he dropped-out during his sophomore year of high school after passing the GED exam, he's reportedly also called California and Hawaii home throughout his young life. Still, some Federal Way residents aren't as quick as Park and Beets to dismiss festivities centered on the former Idol 6 finalist.
"I would love to do something," Tiffany Archibald, the director of marketing of a mall near Malakar's home, told a local paper according to the Post. "I just can't find him."
After doing the regular press tour following his elimination -- and then some -- Malakar has apparently retreated out of the spotlight for the time being. When he'll emerge is still anyone's guess, but "fanjayas" need not worry, as he'll at least be a member of this summer's Idol 6 tour.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
CBS Reveals The Identities Its 'Pirate Master' Buccaneer Wannabes
CBS has revealed the identities of the 16 buccaneer wannabes who will compete in Pirate Master, a new swashbuckling reality series created by Mark Burnett that is scheduled to premiere on Thursday, May 31 at 8PM ET/PT.
Pirate Master will follow the 16 contestants as they spend 33 days traveling around the Caribbean island nation of Dominica in search of hidden treasure that will total $1 million. When they're not busy embarking on quests to decipher various hidden treasure clues, they'll live on the 179-foot, square-rigged barque that will also serve as their main form of plundering transportation.
One pirate will become the captain of the ship and will assign roles and chores to the remaining crew members, establishing a hierarchy that could lead to mutiny.
All of the contestants that help find each treasure will receive a share of the gold coins found, however like a true pirate ship, the captain and his officers will end up with more than their equal shares, leaving the rest of the pirates to split the remaining scraps.
Each episode will conclude with Pirate's Court, a Survivor Tribal Council-like event that will see one individual eliminated and "cut adrift." In the end, one will be the first to find the largest booty -- worth $500,000 -- and claim the title of "Pirate Master."
Pirate Master's cast consists of eight men and eight women who range in age from 21 to 45-years-old. Hailing from Alaska to Massachusetts and several locations in-between, cast members come from various walks of life, boasting credentials in everything from glass blowing and smoke jumping to law and music, and even features a Chippendale Dancer as well as an ex-NFL player.
The 16 contestants competing in Pirate Master -- who will also be dressed in period costumes -- are:
Pirate Master will follow the 16 contestants as they spend 33 days traveling around the Caribbean island nation of Dominica in search of hidden treasure that will total $1 million. When they're not busy embarking on quests to decipher various hidden treasure clues, they'll live on the 179-foot, square-rigged barque that will also serve as their main form of plundering transportation.
One pirate will become the captain of the ship and will assign roles and chores to the remaining crew members, establishing a hierarchy that could lead to mutiny.
All of the contestants that help find each treasure will receive a share of the gold coins found, however like a true pirate ship, the captain and his officers will end up with more than their equal shares, leaving the rest of the pirates to split the remaining scraps.
Each episode will conclude with Pirate's Court, a Survivor Tribal Council-like event that will see one individual eliminated and "cut adrift." In the end, one will be the first to find the largest booty -- worth $500,000 -- and claim the title of "Pirate Master."
Pirate Master's cast consists of eight men and eight women who range in age from 21 to 45-years-old. Hailing from Alaska to Massachusetts and several locations in-between, cast members come from various walks of life, boasting credentials in everything from glass blowing and smoke jumping to law and music, and even features a Chippendale Dancer as well as an ex-NFL player.
The 16 contestants competing in Pirate Master -- who will also be dressed in period costumes -- are:
Barbara Walters, Rosie O'Donnell Criticize Bush's 'Idol' Appearance
Some big names from the entertainment industry have made appearances on American Idol in the past, but never the President of the United States.
President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush delivered a video message at the conclusion of Tuesday night's live performance episode featuring Idol's sixth season Top 6 finalists, thanking Americans for their "almost $70 million" worth of contributions to the Idol Gives Back charity event.
"Laura and I are pleased to join you tonight, and thank you for raising millions of dollars for children living in poverty in American and Africa," said President Bush. "We thank all of the American Idol viewers who have shown the good heart of America. We thank all the celebrities who participated, including Bono, and all the contestants who sang their hearts out for these children."
"Because of your generosity," added the First Lady, "African children will receive meds to protect against malaria, and some of America's poorest children will get medical care and healthy food."
"Say Laura, you think I ought to sing something?" President Bush asked the First Lady, who replied, "I don't know darling, they've already seen you dance," a reference to the dance moves he showed off last week with a West African dance troupe for Malaria Awareness Day.
While the thank you from the President and First Lady seemed innocent enough, the unusual appearance is also generating controversy. After discussing the performances of Idol 6 finalists Blake Lewis and Lakisha Jones on Wednesday morning's broadcast of ABC's The View, co-hosts Barbara Walters and Rosie O'Donnell criticized the presidential appearance.
"I think that's great... [but] that there are so many things that the President can come on and thank people for, and perhaps we've been talking about how little money goes to [U.S. military] servicemen who come home and who are wounded and to families who have to struggle, that I just think that it's sort of interesting that they go on the most popular television show," Walters remarked after co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck -- responding to O'Donnell's comment that the appearance upset her a little -- attempted to defend the Bush appearance.
"I'm more disturbed that he's thanking the American public for giving up their money," O'Donnell responded after Hasselbeck, a political conservative, began the discussion by uncharacteristically baiting O'Donnell, an outspoken Bush critic, by asking her if she was "disturbed that [Bush] 'invaded' Idol last night."
"We've asked the American public for money during every tragedy, but you know, [he's spending] $500 billion in Iraq," O'Donnell continued. "But he wants to thank America for the $70 million out of their own pockets that they gave but he doesn't mention the $500 billion he's spent in Iraq. I think it's very distorted."
After Hasselbeck responded that she thought President Bush's Idol message was a "positive one," Walters continued her criticism. "American Idol -- I hate to be cynical because I'm such a wonderful person -- but American Idol could have thanked themselves," said Walters. "I just think it's interesting that the President and Mrs. Bush spent their time and effort to come on a popular television show."
When Hasselbeck suggested all presidents would take advantage of what fourth The View co-host Joy Behar termed "a photo-op," O'Donnell criticized Fox -- which has already been receiving criticism for not increasing its parent company's "10 cents for every one of the first 50 million votes cast" donation pledge to include all of the 70 million viewer votes that last week's Idol Give Back performance show ultimately ended up generating -- for only contributing $5 million to the charity telethon.
"Here's what I would respect Fox if they did, if they matched the money. How much money has Fox made off of American Idol? If they said, 'We will match the [entire] $70 million,' I would go, 'Wow. That's impressive... to think that they're not making money by the increased [ad] revenue [Idol Gives Back's two-hour "results show" broadcast generated for them]... you have to look at that,'" said O'Donnell of "I would prefer that the President spend his time at the funeral of a dead soldier than on American Idol."
"I don't think it's a bad thing for [President Bush] to be on American Idol thanking the people who donated $70 million to this country and also to Africa," Hasselbeck responded before Walters reiterated her skepticism about the appearance.
"I don't think it's a bad thing -- I think it's a fine thing -- I just think it's interesting that of all the different outlets and all the different ways of spending money and with all of the time constraints that the President and First Lady have, that this is what they chose to go on," said Walters.
President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush delivered a video message at the conclusion of Tuesday night's live performance episode featuring Idol's sixth season Top 6 finalists, thanking Americans for their "almost $70 million" worth of contributions to the Idol Gives Back charity event.
"Laura and I are pleased to join you tonight, and thank you for raising millions of dollars for children living in poverty in American and Africa," said President Bush. "We thank all of the American Idol viewers who have shown the good heart of America. We thank all the celebrities who participated, including Bono, and all the contestants who sang their hearts out for these children."
"Because of your generosity," added the First Lady, "African children will receive meds to protect against malaria, and some of America's poorest children will get medical care and healthy food."
"Say Laura, you think I ought to sing something?" President Bush asked the First Lady, who replied, "I don't know darling, they've already seen you dance," a reference to the dance moves he showed off last week with a West African dance troupe for Malaria Awareness Day.
While the thank you from the President and First Lady seemed innocent enough, the unusual appearance is also generating controversy. After discussing the performances of Idol 6 finalists Blake Lewis and Lakisha Jones on Wednesday morning's broadcast of ABC's The View, co-hosts Barbara Walters and Rosie O'Donnell criticized the presidential appearance.
"I think that's great... [but] that there are so many things that the President can come on and thank people for, and perhaps we've been talking about how little money goes to [U.S. military] servicemen who come home and who are wounded and to families who have to struggle, that I just think that it's sort of interesting that they go on the most popular television show," Walters remarked after co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck -- responding to O'Donnell's comment that the appearance upset her a little -- attempted to defend the Bush appearance.
"I'm more disturbed that he's thanking the American public for giving up their money," O'Donnell responded after Hasselbeck, a political conservative, began the discussion by uncharacteristically baiting O'Donnell, an outspoken Bush critic, by asking her if she was "disturbed that [Bush] 'invaded' Idol last night."
"We've asked the American public for money during every tragedy, but you know, [he's spending] $500 billion in Iraq," O'Donnell continued. "But he wants to thank America for the $70 million out of their own pockets that they gave but he doesn't mention the $500 billion he's spent in Iraq. I think it's very distorted."
After Hasselbeck responded that she thought President Bush's Idol message was a "positive one," Walters continued her criticism. "American Idol -- I hate to be cynical because I'm such a wonderful person -- but American Idol could have thanked themselves," said Walters. "I just think it's interesting that the President and Mrs. Bush spent their time and effort to come on a popular television show."
When Hasselbeck suggested all presidents would take advantage of what fourth The View co-host Joy Behar termed "a photo-op," O'Donnell criticized Fox -- which has already been receiving criticism for not increasing its parent company's "10 cents for every one of the first 50 million votes cast" donation pledge to include all of the 70 million viewer votes that last week's Idol Give Back performance show ultimately ended up generating -- for only contributing $5 million to the charity telethon.
"Here's what I would respect Fox if they did, if they matched the money. How much money has Fox made off of American Idol? If they said, 'We will match the [entire] $70 million,' I would go, 'Wow. That's impressive... to think that they're not making money by the increased [ad] revenue [Idol Gives Back's two-hour "results show" broadcast generated for them]... you have to look at that,'" said O'Donnell of "I would prefer that the President spend his time at the funeral of a dead soldier than on American Idol."
"I don't think it's a bad thing for [President Bush] to be on American Idol thanking the people who donated $70 million to this country and also to Africa," Hasselbeck responded before Walters reiterated her skepticism about the appearance.
"I don't think it's a bad thing -- I think it's a fine thing -- I just think it's interesting that of all the different outlets and all the different ways of spending money and with all of the time constraints that the President and First Lady have, that this is what they chose to go on," said Walters.
'American Idol's Sixth Season Top 6 Take The Stage And Perform (Again)
American Idol's sixth season Top 6 took the stage for a second time last night and performed songs from 1980s rock group Bon Jovi while being mentored by its famous frontman Jon Bon Jovi.
The fates of two of the six remaining finalists are at stake, as the "over 70 million" votes cast by viewers based on last Tuesday night's Idol Gives Back performances will be combined with viewer votes from last night, and the two finalists who received the least votes during the two voting periods will be eliminated. As was the case last week, viewers had double the time to vote -- four hours -- following the performance episode. In addition, each finalist was also assigned two toll-free viewer voting phone numbers instead of the usual one.
One of the female finalists found herself living on a prayer following a not-so-stellar performance; another returned to the stage in full force and received a kiss from one of the judges; and one of the male finalists gave as unique a performance as Idol fans have ever seen. Idol host Ryan Seacrest also said the Idol Gives Back charity event -- which was launched last week -- has raised "almost $70 million" to benefit organizations that provide relief to children and young people living in poverty in Africa and America. President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush also thanked Idol viewers for their contributions via a video message.
The following is Reality TV World's recap of the performance broadcast in the order which the six finalists sang. Also included are comments from each of the three judges -- Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell -- as well as additional information about each performance.
Wednesday night at 9PM ET, two of the Idol 6 finalists will be eliminated from the reality competition series during a one-hour live results show, in which Bon Jovi is also scheduled to perform.
Phil Stacey, a 29-year-old from Jacksonville, FL
Song: "Blaze of Glory"
Randy said: "Yo man. You know what? I'm happy for you for a lot of reasons tonight. I actually recorded that song for Jon Bon Jovi, which is cool, there's a great base on that and it's cool to hear it again (Simon interjects, 'That was the problem with the song.') I think other than country week, this is your best performance ever on this show (wild cheers from the audience). That was the bomb! You know what I caught some [former Journey frontman] Steve Perry on a Bon Jovi song... I love it! I love it!"
Paula said: "You know what Phil, this is a year out of your life that you will never forget... never forget. And you look like you were just living your inner-kid up there. But you want to know something? This is the best opening I think we've had all season long (more cheers)."
Simon said: "I thought it was okay. I didn't hear... (a shower of boos) Give me five seconds and then you can boo! At least let me talk first! (the audience quiets down after some brief laughter) Thank you. I didn't hear any authenticity. I thought in the middle, you were like a bad actor playing a role. I did. I did. Kind of like this is how rock singers are supposed to be. If this was an audition for a rock singer I don't think you'd pass the audition. And I don't think you've done enough to last next week. (Commented Randy, 'We tell the truth,' speaking about he and Paula) It's not the truth. You don't tell the truth. It's not the truth."
Additional Info: Jon originally wrote "Blaze of Glory" for the movie Young Guns... Phil commented "Holy Moly!" when he realized he was "jamming" with Bon Jovi... Jon thought Phil "knocked this one out of the ballpark"... As a kid, Phil said he used to sing "Blaze of Glory" to a mirror using a comb as a microphone, adding "I practiced this song for 15 years."... Phil started his performance in the audience, and walked by a sign that read "Stacey Stays"...Another sign read, "Bald is Sexy/Vote for Phil"... Following Simon's comments, Phil said to him, "I still love you man." Ryan asked, "Why? Why? You don't have to say that." Phil responded, "I appreciate these guys, but they're not the ones keeping me here either."... Prior to Phil's performance, former Idol 6 semifinalist Antonella Barba as well as former Idol 6 Top 10 finalist Gina Glocksen could be seen in the audience.
Jordin Sparks, a 17-year-old from Glendale, AZ
Song: "Living on a Prayer"
Randy said: "This is very interesting... you are not definitely the rock girl. When you hit the big notes in the choruses it was cool, but those verses were a little rough. (Interjected Jordin, 'Yes. They were.') But you know what? I could tell by the first note -- that first little note you hit -- that you knew. I was like, 'Okay. At least she knows.' (Commented Jordin, 'I recognize.') It wasn't your best."
Paula said: "None of us know what it's like for you to be in the workshop process and that's what it's... It's hard when you have a band... a hot guys band. But you know what? I give credit because you went for it even knowing it was a little bit out of your range. You know what? You're hot Jordin. You're out there."
Simon said: "Okay, let's just cue the boos in advance because (laughter from the audience) it was like... First of all, the look. It was like something out of The Addams Family. That hair... (Randy commented, 'I like the look.') As for the singing Jordin, I mean it was just out of control. It was verging on shrieking at times. You know, you absolutely completely lost control (boos). Although I do agree with Paula, you know, you've been given guys' rock songs to sing so you're at a massive disadvantage. But it was terrible to be honest with you."
Additional Info: Prior to Jordin's performance, Ryan revealed dates and locations for this summer's Idol 6 tour will be available via the show's website on Saturday, May 19... "Oh my gosh! My mom is going to flip out!" said Jordin upon meeting Jon... Jordin explained her mom put Bon Jovi "in her face from birth"... Jon described "Living on a Prayer" as a "very difficult one to sing," and added "we need to work a little bit on the melodies for her"... Jon commented he couldn't sing "half that good" at 17-years-old... Following Simon's comments, Ryan said, "Thank you Herman Munster," a reference to The Munsters, not The Addams Family... Jordin revealed when she learned it would be a rock-themed week, she felt "really excited" but also unsure of how her performance would go... Trying to explain how her less-than-stellar vocal performance was a one-time deal, Jordin said, "This was my week. I will say, this was my week." Ryan commented, "We like your honesty and your candor on this program Jordin."
Lakisha Jones, a 27-year-old from Fort Meade, MD
Song: "This Ain't a Love Story"
Randy said: "Lakisha man... I got to tell you something guys, Lakisha's back this week. I saw you singing that at Simon man, this ain't a love song, like you got something to prove to him! Listen, you proved one thing tonight. You started out a little rough -- it was a little pitchy in the beginning -- but guess what? By the middle of the song, you sung me and I think sung everybody here in this audience... You blew that out the box. (cheers from the audience) You proved you can sing tonight! Lakisha's back!"
Paula said: "That low, bottom-tone of your voice is like, that's your money in your pocket. And you did give everyone a little something-something."
Simon said: "Lakisha, I actually could kiss you after that. (Ryan then proceeded to walk Lakisha down to the judges' table, where she gave Simon a kiss on the lips to wild applause and cheers from the audience. 'Oh the image of your lipstick on his lips is priceless,' said Ryan.) Lakisha you know what I loved is that you rose to the challenge. I didn't know what the song was. You absolutely nailed it, and I'm so glad that you are back! Nice lips... nice lips. Love them."
Additional Info: A sign in the audience read "Kick-it Lakisha"... Lakisha was the first to answer a fan's question this week, and revealed she had no training prior to her Idol journey, describing herself as "just a church girl singing in church." When Ryan asked if she was going to "take us to church tonight," Lakisha answered, "I'm gonna give you a little something-something"... Prior to answering the fan's question, Ryan asked Lakisha if she was going to sit on the stool, and she answered, "No. I want the camera to get my slim side."... Lakisha said "she'd heard of Bon Jovi and seen him on Oprah"... Jon described "This Ain't a Love Story" as a "soul-singer's song" so he was "glad she found this track"... Jon commented, "I'm not a betting man. But I would bet money this week she's not going home singing this song."
Blake Lewis, a 25-year-old from Bothell, WA
Song: "You Give Love a Bad Name"
Randy said: "I'll give you the award for the most original version of a song ever on American Idol, and you took a leap of faith. And guess what dog? You won. That was hot baby."
Paula said: "Blake this was the biggest leap of faith. You really put yourself out there and I've got to tell you something. An artist like the band Bon Jovi, they endured monumental success. There was a twinkle in [Jon's] eye and he had a flush face. He was really digging what you were doing. We all did. This was amazing. This was your night."
Simon said: "You know what, there will be half the audience who absolutely hated it and half the audience will love it. (The entire audience booed.) And I think that was absolutely the right thing to do. You're a very brave young man. (Wild cheers from the audience) You took a massive risk and this is what's going to keep you in the competition next week."
Additional Info: A sign in the audience read "Blake You Make My Heart Ache"... Blake said the "game plan" for his performance was, "I kind of don't even want to say because it will give it away."... Jon described it as an "adventurous rendition" and asked if Blake was "ready to the roll the dice with this one."... Commented Jon, "He has to sell his interpretation of a song that a lot of people know and don't want messed with."... Blake realized the "risk," but said it was "fine" because, "If you don't take risks, you'll never see anything new." As if you hadn't guessed by now, Blake beat-boxed and scatted throughout the performance... Blake performed standing next to a percussionist... Paula noticed that Simon's mom -- who was a member of the studio audience -- was "rocking" with Blake.
Chris Richardson, a 22-year-old from Chesapeake, VA
Song: "Wanted Dead or Alive"
Randy said: "Check it out, check it out. You know what man, tonight I was worried about the Bon Jovi songs because it's hard to sing rock and none of you are really rock singers. But guess what man? You did your thing up there, you made it your own, you put little R&B twists and turns on it... That was nice baby, I liked that."
Paula said: "You don't have anything to worry about taking the rap for. You did your thing. And you know what, this is turning out to be a great night. Great night. Good job."
Simon said: "I think you did as much as you could possibly do with that song because this is not your style of music. Whether it's good enough to stay another week, I'm not sure."
Additional Info: A sign in the audience read "Rock on Chris"... Ryan introduced Chris as Justin Timberlake... Chris also answered a fan's question -- or at least attempted to -- when he struggled to describe how he feels before going onstage, the best he could muster was "Just have fun."... Jon said Chris had a "daunting task" because "Wanted Dead or Alive" is one of Bon Jovi's "best known songs"... While performing for Jon, Chris forgot some of the lyrics, which he described as "embarrassing"... Chris was aware former finalist Chris Daughtry performed "Wanted Dead or Alive' during Idol's fifth season, but commented, "You can't go without doing 'Wanted Dead or Alive' on Bon Jovi night, so if I have to take the rap for it, I'm down."... Jon instructed Chris to "find the blue note" to make the song "more sad than glorious."
Melinda Doolittle, a 29-year-old from Brentwood, TN
Song: "Have a Nice Day"
Randy said: "I don't know if it's your best performance but it's definitely a great performance again from Melinda Doolittle. I like that you had a little Tina Turner attitude in there. That was hot baby, that was hot."
Paula said: "From the first note, we knew the game was on. It was a great workout. You girl, were singing your butt off. How does it feel to be a rock star? (Melinda sighed) You know, you give it up to rock stars don't you. You're a rock star. You're a rock star. She's a rock star. Yeah. You're a rock star."
Simon said: "Melinda I totally endorse what Randy just said, I thought it was like a young Tina Turner. I don't know the song that well, but I thought vocally, in a different league than everyone else tonight."
Additional Info: Right off the bat, Melinda confided in Jon that she's "so bad at rock." He assured her, "I can teach you how to rock."... Jon thought Melinda brought soul to the song and told her to "Just testify. It's church!" Melinda seemed to understand this, commenting, "I was like, 'Okay. I like church.'"... Melinda flashed the metal-sign several times before and after her performance in an effort to show her rock side... Ryan commented Melinda "put her foot down on that one."
The fates of two of the six remaining finalists are at stake, as the "over 70 million" votes cast by viewers based on last Tuesday night's Idol Gives Back performances will be combined with viewer votes from last night, and the two finalists who received the least votes during the two voting periods will be eliminated. As was the case last week, viewers had double the time to vote -- four hours -- following the performance episode. In addition, each finalist was also assigned two toll-free viewer voting phone numbers instead of the usual one.
One of the female finalists found herself living on a prayer following a not-so-stellar performance; another returned to the stage in full force and received a kiss from one of the judges; and one of the male finalists gave as unique a performance as Idol fans have ever seen. Idol host Ryan Seacrest also said the Idol Gives Back charity event -- which was launched last week -- has raised "almost $70 million" to benefit organizations that provide relief to children and young people living in poverty in Africa and America. President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush also thanked Idol viewers for their contributions via a video message.
The following is Reality TV World's recap of the performance broadcast in the order which the six finalists sang. Also included are comments from each of the three judges -- Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell -- as well as additional information about each performance.
Wednesday night at 9PM ET, two of the Idol 6 finalists will be eliminated from the reality competition series during a one-hour live results show, in which Bon Jovi is also scheduled to perform.
Phil Stacey, a 29-year-old from Jacksonville, FL
Song: "Blaze of Glory"
Randy said: "Yo man. You know what? I'm happy for you for a lot of reasons tonight. I actually recorded that song for Jon Bon Jovi, which is cool, there's a great base on that and it's cool to hear it again (Simon interjects, 'That was the problem with the song.') I think other than country week, this is your best performance ever on this show (wild cheers from the audience). That was the bomb! You know what I caught some [former Journey frontman] Steve Perry on a Bon Jovi song... I love it! I love it!"
Paula said: "You know what Phil, this is a year out of your life that you will never forget... never forget. And you look like you were just living your inner-kid up there. But you want to know something? This is the best opening I think we've had all season long (more cheers)."
Simon said: "I thought it was okay. I didn't hear... (a shower of boos) Give me five seconds and then you can boo! At least let me talk first! (the audience quiets down after some brief laughter) Thank you. I didn't hear any authenticity. I thought in the middle, you were like a bad actor playing a role. I did. I did. Kind of like this is how rock singers are supposed to be. If this was an audition for a rock singer I don't think you'd pass the audition. And I don't think you've done enough to last next week. (Commented Randy, 'We tell the truth,' speaking about he and Paula) It's not the truth. You don't tell the truth. It's not the truth."
Additional Info: Jon originally wrote "Blaze of Glory" for the movie Young Guns... Phil commented "Holy Moly!" when he realized he was "jamming" with Bon Jovi... Jon thought Phil "knocked this one out of the ballpark"... As a kid, Phil said he used to sing "Blaze of Glory" to a mirror using a comb as a microphone, adding "I practiced this song for 15 years."... Phil started his performance in the audience, and walked by a sign that read "Stacey Stays"...Another sign read, "Bald is Sexy/Vote for Phil"... Following Simon's comments, Phil said to him, "I still love you man." Ryan asked, "Why? Why? You don't have to say that." Phil responded, "I appreciate these guys, but they're not the ones keeping me here either."... Prior to Phil's performance, former Idol 6 semifinalist Antonella Barba as well as former Idol 6 Top 10 finalist Gina Glocksen could be seen in the audience.
Jordin Sparks, a 17-year-old from Glendale, AZ
Song: "Living on a Prayer"
Randy said: "This is very interesting... you are not definitely the rock girl. When you hit the big notes in the choruses it was cool, but those verses were a little rough. (Interjected Jordin, 'Yes. They were.') But you know what? I could tell by the first note -- that first little note you hit -- that you knew. I was like, 'Okay. At least she knows.' (Commented Jordin, 'I recognize.') It wasn't your best."
Paula said: "None of us know what it's like for you to be in the workshop process and that's what it's... It's hard when you have a band... a hot guys band. But you know what? I give credit because you went for it even knowing it was a little bit out of your range. You know what? You're hot Jordin. You're out there."
Simon said: "Okay, let's just cue the boos in advance because (laughter from the audience) it was like... First of all, the look. It was like something out of The Addams Family. That hair... (Randy commented, 'I like the look.') As for the singing Jordin, I mean it was just out of control. It was verging on shrieking at times. You know, you absolutely completely lost control (boos). Although I do agree with Paula, you know, you've been given guys' rock songs to sing so you're at a massive disadvantage. But it was terrible to be honest with you."
Additional Info: Prior to Jordin's performance, Ryan revealed dates and locations for this summer's Idol 6 tour will be available via the show's website on Saturday, May 19... "Oh my gosh! My mom is going to flip out!" said Jordin upon meeting Jon... Jordin explained her mom put Bon Jovi "in her face from birth"... Jon described "Living on a Prayer" as a "very difficult one to sing," and added "we need to work a little bit on the melodies for her"... Jon commented he couldn't sing "half that good" at 17-years-old... Following Simon's comments, Ryan said, "Thank you Herman Munster," a reference to The Munsters, not The Addams Family... Jordin revealed when she learned it would be a rock-themed week, she felt "really excited" but also unsure of how her performance would go... Trying to explain how her less-than-stellar vocal performance was a one-time deal, Jordin said, "This was my week. I will say, this was my week." Ryan commented, "We like your honesty and your candor on this program Jordin."
Lakisha Jones, a 27-year-old from Fort Meade, MD
Song: "This Ain't a Love Story"
Randy said: "Lakisha man... I got to tell you something guys, Lakisha's back this week. I saw you singing that at Simon man, this ain't a love song, like you got something to prove to him! Listen, you proved one thing tonight. You started out a little rough -- it was a little pitchy in the beginning -- but guess what? By the middle of the song, you sung me and I think sung everybody here in this audience... You blew that out the box. (cheers from the audience) You proved you can sing tonight! Lakisha's back!"
Paula said: "That low, bottom-tone of your voice is like, that's your money in your pocket. And you did give everyone a little something-something."
Simon said: "Lakisha, I actually could kiss you after that. (Ryan then proceeded to walk Lakisha down to the judges' table, where she gave Simon a kiss on the lips to wild applause and cheers from the audience. 'Oh the image of your lipstick on his lips is priceless,' said Ryan.) Lakisha you know what I loved is that you rose to the challenge. I didn't know what the song was. You absolutely nailed it, and I'm so glad that you are back! Nice lips... nice lips. Love them."
Additional Info: A sign in the audience read "Kick-it Lakisha"... Lakisha was the first to answer a fan's question this week, and revealed she had no training prior to her Idol journey, describing herself as "just a church girl singing in church." When Ryan asked if she was going to "take us to church tonight," Lakisha answered, "I'm gonna give you a little something-something"... Prior to answering the fan's question, Ryan asked Lakisha if she was going to sit on the stool, and she answered, "No. I want the camera to get my slim side."... Lakisha said "she'd heard of Bon Jovi and seen him on Oprah"... Jon described "This Ain't a Love Story" as a "soul-singer's song" so he was "glad she found this track"... Jon commented, "I'm not a betting man. But I would bet money this week she's not going home singing this song."
Blake Lewis, a 25-year-old from Bothell, WA
Song: "You Give Love a Bad Name"
Randy said: "I'll give you the award for the most original version of a song ever on American Idol, and you took a leap of faith. And guess what dog? You won. That was hot baby."
Paula said: "Blake this was the biggest leap of faith. You really put yourself out there and I've got to tell you something. An artist like the band Bon Jovi, they endured monumental success. There was a twinkle in [Jon's] eye and he had a flush face. He was really digging what you were doing. We all did. This was amazing. This was your night."
Simon said: "You know what, there will be half the audience who absolutely hated it and half the audience will love it. (The entire audience booed.) And I think that was absolutely the right thing to do. You're a very brave young man. (Wild cheers from the audience) You took a massive risk and this is what's going to keep you in the competition next week."
Additional Info: A sign in the audience read "Blake You Make My Heart Ache"... Blake said the "game plan" for his performance was, "I kind of don't even want to say because it will give it away."... Jon described it as an "adventurous rendition" and asked if Blake was "ready to the roll the dice with this one."... Commented Jon, "He has to sell his interpretation of a song that a lot of people know and don't want messed with."... Blake realized the "risk," but said it was "fine" because, "If you don't take risks, you'll never see anything new." As if you hadn't guessed by now, Blake beat-boxed and scatted throughout the performance... Blake performed standing next to a percussionist... Paula noticed that Simon's mom -- who was a member of the studio audience -- was "rocking" with Blake.
Chris Richardson, a 22-year-old from Chesapeake, VA
Song: "Wanted Dead or Alive"
Randy said: "Check it out, check it out. You know what man, tonight I was worried about the Bon Jovi songs because it's hard to sing rock and none of you are really rock singers. But guess what man? You did your thing up there, you made it your own, you put little R&B twists and turns on it... That was nice baby, I liked that."
Paula said: "You don't have anything to worry about taking the rap for. You did your thing. And you know what, this is turning out to be a great night. Great night. Good job."
Simon said: "I think you did as much as you could possibly do with that song because this is not your style of music. Whether it's good enough to stay another week, I'm not sure."
Additional Info: A sign in the audience read "Rock on Chris"... Ryan introduced Chris as Justin Timberlake... Chris also answered a fan's question -- or at least attempted to -- when he struggled to describe how he feels before going onstage, the best he could muster was "Just have fun."... Jon said Chris had a "daunting task" because "Wanted Dead or Alive" is one of Bon Jovi's "best known songs"... While performing for Jon, Chris forgot some of the lyrics, which he described as "embarrassing"... Chris was aware former finalist Chris Daughtry performed "Wanted Dead or Alive' during Idol's fifth season, but commented, "You can't go without doing 'Wanted Dead or Alive' on Bon Jovi night, so if I have to take the rap for it, I'm down."... Jon instructed Chris to "find the blue note" to make the song "more sad than glorious."
Melinda Doolittle, a 29-year-old from Brentwood, TN
Song: "Have a Nice Day"
Randy said: "I don't know if it's your best performance but it's definitely a great performance again from Melinda Doolittle. I like that you had a little Tina Turner attitude in there. That was hot baby, that was hot."
Paula said: "From the first note, we knew the game was on. It was a great workout. You girl, were singing your butt off. How does it feel to be a rock star? (Melinda sighed) You know, you give it up to rock stars don't you. You're a rock star. You're a rock star. She's a rock star. Yeah. You're a rock star."
Simon said: "Melinda I totally endorse what Randy just said, I thought it was like a young Tina Turner. I don't know the song that well, but I thought vocally, in a different league than everyone else tonight."
Additional Info: Right off the bat, Melinda confided in Jon that she's "so bad at rock." He assured her, "I can teach you how to rock."... Jon thought Melinda brought soul to the song and told her to "Just testify. It's church!" Melinda seemed to understand this, commenting, "I was like, 'Okay. I like church.'"... Melinda flashed the metal-sign several times before and after her performance in an effort to show her rock side... Ryan commented Melinda "put her foot down on that one."
'Dancing With The Stars' Cuts John Ratzenberger And Edita Swilinski
Former Cheers star John Ratzenberger and his partner Edita Sliwinski were the sixth couple eliminated from Dancing with the Stars' fourth season during last night's live results show on ABC."I'm so excited to have been part of this," said Ratzenberger upon learning he was the sixth celebrity participant eliminated. "Especially under the tutelage of Edita. Her kindness and patience and friendship has really been astounding and I want to thank you all. Thank you everybody!"
Ratzenberger, currently the host of the Travel Channel's John Ratzenberger's Made In America, was a replacement for The Sopranos actor Vincent Pastore, who dropped-out due to the "physical demands" of the competition, giving Ratzenberger and his partner two weeks less preparation time than the season's other couples had. Still, Ratzenberger didn't perform too poorly, considering he was also the oldest celebrity participant at 59-years-old. However entering this past Monday night's performance episode, he and Sliwinski were the only pair out of the six remaining couples who had previously appeared in the bottom two based on a combination of the judges' scores and viewers votes.
On Monday night, Ratzenberger and Sliwinski performed a rumba and foxtrot, achieving a combined score of 45 out of 60 from the judges for their two routines. "You've obviously been to dance rehab," said Dancing with the Stars judge Bruno Tonioli following the foxtrot, "because the difference in a week is unbelievable."
Despite the improvement, Swilinski's Dancing with the Stars experience came to a familiar end. She is the only professional dancer to appear in all four installments of Dancing with the Stars -- she paired with Evander Holyfield in Season 1, George Hamilton in Season 2, and Joseph Lawrence during Season 3 -- however she's never won the competition.
"I've learned a lot from John. Stay positive, not listen to what anybody says, keep working," said Swilinski when she and Ratzenberger were sent packing. "He's so professional in what he's doing. It was a great lesson for me, so thank you John."
While Ratzenberger and Swilinski were the pair eliminated this week, they did not receive the lowest score from the judges on Monday night. For the third time out of seven performance episodes, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus and his partner Karina Smirnoff had the lowest scores from the judges, receiving a combined score of 38 for their samba and waltz. After performing a "Bubba Chicken" jive routine last week, Cyrus joked he and Smirnoff performed the "Hillbilly Waltz" this week. Once it was announced Ratzenberger and Swilinski were in the bottom two, Cyrus sensed (hoped?) he and Smirnoff would be joining them.
"You can ask John, I walked straight over to him and said, 'I'll see you in just a little bit,'" said Cyrus before it was officially revealed that he and Smirnoff were the other pair in the bottom two. Once it was revealed, the country crooner commented, "Understandably so." However they were spared since they received enough viewer votes to counteract their low scores from the judges.
Each remaining couple performed two Dancing with the Stars routines on Monday night, and two pairs stole the show. Professional boxer Laila Ali and her partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy scored a 29 for their quickstep and a perfect 30 out of 30 for their samba, giving them a combined score of 59. They were tied atop the judges' leaderboard with former N Sync singer Joey Fatone and partner Kym Johnson, who scored a 29 for their foxtrot and a perfect 30 out of 30 for their jive. Tonioli referred to Fatone and Johnson's jive as a "smashing showcase of talent."
"I'm just trying to make things a little more exciting. You've got to raise the bar every time, you've got to step it up," said Fatone.
Just a few points behind the two couples atop the judges' leaderboard were two-time Olympic gold medalist speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno and partner Julianne Hough, who scored a combined 54 out of 60 for their renditions of the foxtrot and mambo; and former Beverly Hills 90210 actor Ian Ziering and partner Cheryl Burke, who also scored a combined 54 for their performances of the tango and mambo.
Dancing with the Stars' eighth performance episode will take place on Monday, May 7 on ABC from 8PM ET/PT to 9:30PM ET/PT, with the five remaining couples each being scored on both a ballroom and Latin routine. On Tuesday, May 8 beginning at 9PM ET/PT, another couple will be eliminated from the competition based on a combination of the judges' scores and viewer votes.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Justin Guarini Named Spokesman for Calm-A-Sutra Tea
Five years ago, the American public voted Kelly Clarkson as the first-ever "American Idol," with a young man named Justin Guarini coming in a close second. While Clarkson has gone on to multi-platinum, stadium-filling success, Guarini has also launched a career of his own. That's right, Guarini was just named the spokesman for a new brand of tea called Calm-A-Sutra. Because nothing demands a washed up reality star spokeperson and a sexually suggestive name like tea.Justin Guarini released the following statement about his new job. If you happen to be drinking tea (or any other beverage) right now, finish your sip before reading this quote, or be prepared to spit it all over your computer.
"As a singer, drinking hot tea has served as an essential part of my daily vocal warm-up routine," said Justin Guarini. "In addition to the fact that tea is an overall healthy beverage, I'm really proud to be working with the Tea Council in support of education in America."
Unfortunately for Guarini, the Marriott Hotel lounge where he generally performs usually only carries fruit punch. Whether or not this new spokesperson gig will affect the filming of From Justin To Kelly 2 is still undetermined. By the way, good work naming a tea Calm-A-Sutra when you're using it to promote education in schools. I was inspired by this story, so I just made my own brand of coffee; it's going to be called "Throw The Shocker Expresso" and I'm using it to raise awareness about poverty in Darfur. Hopefully Brian Dunkelman is available to be a spokesperson.
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