February 2007 Archives

by Matt Smith

Every now and then there will come along a show or a piece on television that is all powerful. Case in point, last night ABC News aired the documentary "To Iraq and Back". It was a hard hitting report that detailed the human cost of war. You see, on January 29, 2006, journalist Bob Woodruff's life was forever changed when he became the victim of a roadside I.E.D. attack while covering the war in Iraq.

It was during that split second that he suffered traumatic brain injury. His story is heartbreakingly tender, and it wasn't just his story either, but the many countless soldiers who have suffered traumatic brain injury as well. It is a journey that I cannot possibly imagine. And for an hour last night, the world was a better place. No Anna Nicole, no Britney Spears, no Bobby Brown in jail because he can't pay child support payments on time. Yes, a story was honestly told that perhaps, maybe, just maybe, will affect some people for the better.

I spent last night on the red carpet at the Playboy Mansion for the party celebrating the season three premiere of the E! channel's, THE GIRLS NEXT DOOR and the series premiere of PARADISE CITY, executive produced by Ryan Seacrest. Arriving late, after coming from taping AMERICAN IDOL (and I'm guessing a quick dinner) Ryan brought along Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell and I asked them whether or not they had seen the photos of Antonella that had been leaked on the internet. At first Randy joked, " Who's Antonella?" but then Simon got very serious when I showed him several of the photos in question, "You know what, whoever sold those is despicable. I really mean that. It's despicable. That is private property. Out of order. Honestly. It's repulsive."

by Tim Kelly, father

Now I have some idea of what Dorothy must have experienced in “The Wizard of Oz” when she woke up.

Dorothy thought it a dream of some sort, yet at the same time real. She had experienced something very special, very good, fun filled and exciting. The experience left Dorothy with a much greater appreciation for her loved ones and for life itself. Can a dream really make this type of impact? ABSOLUTELY! As Dorothy said to her uncles, "You were in the dream and so were you. Oh it all seemed so real". That is sort of how I feel today almost two weeks after visiting the Grammy Rehearsals, courtesy of Access Hollywood's "Access to a Dream".

The funny thing is, the “Access to a Dream” was for my son Timmy Kelly. In my "dream", my 13-year-old son Timmy got to meet and hang out with some very cool stars. I can remember it vividly. We arrived at LAX and were immediately escorted by limo to the Staples Center. Just as we sat down I heard a man begin to sing a song that was familiar. Timmy said "oh yeah" recognizing it was Gnarls Barkley rehearsing "Crazy". There was Cee-Lo standing at the microphone booming out "Crazy" in this beautiful arena, causing my son to nearly jump out of his skin and his seat.

It was a "dream" but one that we were able to enjoy and experience fully. Timmy was fortunate enough to meet a number of the stars such as James Blunt, Rascal Flatts, Dixie Chicks, Reba McEntire, and Carrie Underwood.

There were many, many wonderful experiences in this "dream" but I would like to share three very special moments.

Since I am the host of Grease on NBC, I had to pull major double duty yesterday as I did the interviews at the Governors' Ball for Access. With a little time to kill, I went to my favorite Sunday night haunt, Madeo, for dinner....

Five minutes after bidding farewell to my wife and eldest daughter in order to get to the Kodak theatre in time, George Clooney walked in. Yes, after presenting the Oscar to Jennifer Hudson, George ducked out a side door and went to get the night rolling.

My wife, goddaughter, and daughter Josie were still there and took a photo with him. My wife explained to George that she was married to me and DESPITE that, he graciously chatted with the girls and took pics.

I am not a fashion guy, but I can say with total assuredness that Reese Witherspoon is the most classic, natural beauty I remember ever seeing at the Oscars. Her straightened hair with the bangs was simple and pretty....no jewels needed when you're that soft and gorgeous.

It's been a busy few days for me on the Idol front. So, let's get right to it. Last night I spoke to Jon Bon Jovi at the Vanity Fair Post Oscar party. On Thursday night's Idol it was announced that he would be coming on as a guest mentor this season. Well, as it turns out it's not just Jon who is coming. It's Bon Jovi the group that will be on the show. Jon seemed a bit annoyed that Idol failed to mention this fact. You'll recall that Seacrest just read Jon's name with a photo of just him, " I know, I know, I know but it is the band. The first night they will play our songs and the second night we will come on and sing our new single."

Here's the clincher though, Jon has NEVER even watched AMERICAN IDOL, "I'm aware of it obviously and a lot of the guys have played our songs over the show over the years and they said you really got to do this show and I said ok. So we are going to do Idol." He did laugh when I jokingly started describing the show and who Simon Cowell was, "I just don't want them to talk bad about my singing abilities!"

By Laura Saltman

12:58 A long day finally comes to an end and I head back to the office to put this tantalizing info out there on the web for you. I'll finally get home tonite around 2:30am.. 12 hours after I hit the Oscar red carpet.

12:45 Jennifer Hudson is the last to arrive and disappoints me yet again by acting too good for the press. Even Al Roker can't get her to stop. She says one line about not being able to believe she came from American Idol to this and then blows by the press but spent five minutes posing for photographers. Al and I decide she needs a slice of humble pie.

12:30 Forest Whitaker arrives and spends ten minutes signing autographs for fans across the street. His publicist tells us he is finished with interviews but Al, Kevin and I gang up and grab him. He tells me he will be putting the Oscar on a shelf near his staircase where everyone can see it. He has been partying it up with Travolta all night. They have been friends for years.

12:25 I'm feeling exhausted and ready to get the heck out of here until Al Roker tells me he will not be going home to sleep tonight. Just a quick shower and a change and then he is live from 4am till 7am! I'm impressed he is still standing out here with the masses as many of the reporters left long ago and stars are beginning to leave the party.

12:20 Cameron Diaz arrives wearing a short black trench coat. I ask her why she ditched the white dress and she tells me she couldn't take the "sausage-ing" effect of her tight dress.

By Michael Lewittes

7:33 - Peter O'Toole is by the bar, but not drinking. I asked him about the pillows he stole under his sweater from the Vanity Fair party on Thursday. He said, "I didn't think anyone noticed."

Sacha Baron Cohen, Isla Fisher and Cohen's parents clicked glasses at the bar and the family said, "L'Chayim" (to a happy and healthy life). Cohen's father said it was a weird category for him to be nominated in.

6:45 - He smiled and laughed. Eddie and Tracey are holding hands.

6:44 - Eddie's on his cell by the bar with Tracey Edmonds and Harvey Weinstein.

5:51 - And the Oscars goes to? Wasn't Nicole supposed to say, "And the winner is..."

5:26 - The nominees -- 177 of them -- just practiced standing up. It's going to be part of the opening. They're all going to be asked to stand.

5:11 - Steven Spielberg is in a deep conversation with Djimon Honsou as the director's wife Kate Capshaw, is in the ladies room.

Meanwhile, Sacha Baron Cohen has parked himself with his fiancee at the end of the second floor by the bar. They've been surrounded by people, including Kirsten Dunst for the past 20 minutes. Now, with drink in hand, he rushed down the stairs to take his seat, which is precisely what I need to do.

4:46 - She was just convinced by an escort her to take her seat. She's visibly nervous, practically having a hard time breathing.

At the closed bar, Jennifer Lopez was just handed a glass of champagne.

By Laura Saltman, AccessHollywood.com red carpet correspondent

(Pictured Left: Access Hollywood's Nancy O'Dell arrives at the Academy Awards)

5:45 - I'm freezing and while I would have loved to snap some photos on the red carpet. I'm too cold to take off my wrap. So I head back to the Hollywood Roosevelt hotel to change, not before snapping a photo by the pool, then it's time to head for the Vanity Fair party.

5:30 - I thank Beyonce for being so gracious to stop and talk to everyone unlike the others who think they are too big to have to talk to everyone. Are you listening Jennifer Hudson? In fact, even Anika Noni Rose's publicist blew us off. These girls should take a lesson from Beyonce. Big props to Will Smith and Jennifer Lopez on this as well. They talked to everyone tonight.

5:20 - More blowoffs including Eddie Murphy, Nicole Kidman, Queen Latifah, Martin Scorcese, Forest Whitaker and a few others.

5:15 - Helen Mirren tells me she will be careful not to fall ass over t@!#* again like she did at another awards show.

5:00 - Jada Pinkett Smith looks great in a mustard colored dress. She has worn this color before and tells me it’s because with her skin tone she loves warm colors. Her son Jayden is completely bored playing with a Rubik’s Cube. He tells me he thinks his mom looks like a gold statue. Jada tells me Jayden has a date with Sarah Michelle Gellar at the Vanity Fair party. Later Will Smith tells me all about Jayden’s crush on Buffy.

4:50 - So while I'm grateful to have a spot here on the carpet it’s completely frustrating. So far the folks on my side of the carpet have been blown off by Penelope Cruz, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet, Celine Dion, Jodie Foster, Naomi Watts, Jennifer Hudson and lots more.

Here's how it goes. The publicists pull their clients away from the press by bringing them to the middle of the carpet. I feel for the folks who are not on the national entertainment shows who have to deal with being blown off every single red carpet. I'd go insane. Thank goodness for Access Hollywood!

Oh, and also let me mention that while the publicists blow off the media they always make sure to bring their clients past the still photographers. Can't miss the chance to show off their free dresses and jewels.

4:44 - Now I've got this Japanese journalist who nearly fell over himself to get to Ken Watanabe sneaking into my spot. Hello!!!

4:05 - Right now I'm fighting with the folks from Telemundo over space. They have three reporters in one space and I'm getting yelled at for taking up too much space. Es muy loco!!

4:00 - Speaking of stepping on trains. Michael Buble steps on Jodie Foster's. She looks pissed. Later Jennifer Lopez tells me the secret to having people not step on you is to remember to keep looking down.

By Scott Mantz, Access Film Producer

10:00 - At the Governor's Ball. Grabbed some food, went to a table where Tobey Maguire was talking with Marvel Entertainment's Avi Arad (producer of the "Spider-Man" movies) while his wife, Jennifer Meyer, showed pictured of their new daughter to friends. She said, "She looks just like Tobey!"

A few minutes later, I went up to Abigail Breslin's mother (who was sitting next to adorable Abigail). I congratulated her for all of the success of "Little Miss Sunshine." We talked about how everyone talks about the movie with a smile, and they will still be doing so 10 years from now. I wished her all the best, and Abigail waved "goodbye." "Little Miss Sunshine" didn't win Best Picture tonight, but it's the real best picture in my book!

8:16 - I did backstage interviews at the Independent Spirit Awards yesterday, and I spoke to all the winners of "Little Miss Sunshine" -- including the writer, Michael Arndt, and the co-directors, Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris. So just now, I'm watching the TV at the bar, and the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay went to Michael Arndt. While I was watching the tube, Valerie Faris was right across from me -- she remembered me from yesterday, and she gave me a high-5 when Michael won! Nice!

7:57 - Nothing like a little family bonding at the bar! Shortly after losing Best Supporting Actress to J-Hud, Cate Blanchett made a beeline to the bar, where she's been chatting up new parents Maggie Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard for over 15 minutes. At one point, Gyllenhaal whipped out her blackberry and showed it to Blanchett, who had an "aw, ain't that cute" look on her face.

Must've been those baby pictures!

7:07 - Tom Cruise looking VERY MUCH like he did in "A Few Good Men" -- one of his BEST movies!

6:57 - It's been about 10 minutes since Eddie Murphy lost Best Supporting Actor. He's out at the bar, walking and talking with studio head Harvey Weinstein, who pats him on the back and wishes him well. As Murphy walks away, guests yell out "you should have won!" Eddie just looks back, then keeps on walking away.

It's gonna be a long night.

6:41 - Still at the bar, Clint Eastwood walks in (he's shorter than I thought!) -- he's talking to Roger Friedman (from Fox News), and his date (wife? Gf?) excuses herself to get a drink. She walks past me, looks right at me and says excitedly, "Hi, nice to see you again!"

Actually, we never met, but she probably thought I was Steve Carell!

6:33 - After a rather boring start with some art and technical awards (no offense to the winners), the first upset of the night takes place -- Alan Arkin wins Best Supporting Actor over the favored Eddie Murphy! Yowza, that's gonna hurt for a bit. Don't worry Eddie, there's always "Norbit 2"! So that seemed like a good time to hit the bar, where Jennifer Hudson had to get a drink real quick because she's singing next.

Unrelated uplifting photo, as balloons only can be – see end of blog for description

My 5-year old Siamese cat, Sascha, was in the animal hospital for the past few days getting kitty bladder stones removed. I’ve been somewhat preoccupied with the situation this week and haven’t written much as a result. When my husband and I went to visit her the other night, after her initial delight at seeing us, she actually growled when she realized we weren’t taking her home. When we finally took her home two nights ago, with post-op instructions to keep her quiet, she and her protective 12.5 inch collar fled from the cat carrier and bulleted all over the place, so excited was this feral kitty to be home. She’s generally very frisky by nature and the only symptoms of her bladder condition were a certain lethargy that set in, and frequent, overly strained visits to the litter box. She’s recovering nicely now in the comfort of her own surroundings.

It’s harder to know when an animal is in need of help than a human. Cats, for instance, don’t shave their heads bald in front of the world. Nor do they check in and out and in and out and in to rehab once the buzzing is done, or flail a car with an umbrella. They also don’t paint their faces like a clown and behave on camera as if they were on drugs. Generally, they don’t have bottles of methadone in the fridge next to the Slimfast & Trimspa, either.

Judge Lawrence L. Korda, pictured left

*** COURT ADJOURNED - JUDGE KORDA WILL ISSUE REPORT MONDAY MORNING ***

(10:13 AM) - As soon as we are escorted into the hearing, Birkhead attorney Deborah Opri and Stern lawyers Ron Rale and Krista Barth step out together. They return in about 2 minutes. As soon as they are seated, they begin bickering though I couldn't really hear what it was about. Clearly though, they were irritated with each other.

(9:53 AM) - Larry Birkhead, sister Judy and the fiery Deborah Opri have arrived. Birkhead, wearing dark sunglasses in the dimly lit hallway walked past without saying anything.

(9:43 AM) - Wow! What a difference a day makes. As I pulled up to the courthouse the media was out in full force. Looks like they're ready for the same fireworks as the last couple of days. Upstairs on the 8th floor, the mood is much different. With only the Birkhead camp coming to pursue its paternity case, the court is not expecting a full house. Unlike the Anna Nicole hearing, media passes are not being assigned. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis and with the hearing scheduled to begin in about 40 minutes, it doesn't appear as if anyone will be turned away from the courtroom which is down the hall and around the corner from the Anna Nicole hearing room. Yesterday the halls were buzzing with reporters, sheriff's deputies constantly yelling to clear an aisle to allow other people to get through and go about their business. Today, there about a dozen of us, casually chatting, with more interest on when Virgie's appeal will be filed and what will happen in that case than they are with the upcoming Birkhead fight.

To give you an idea of just how laid back it is up here, Judge Ross, one of the judges on the 8th floor, just came out with a box of Dunkin' Donuts for us (yes I ate one). He said it was real "cop food" and asked if we needed anything else. I said "a glass of milk would be nice." His response, "get Judge Seidlin's credit card." Guess even the other judges in the courthouse were tuned into the Anna Nicole hearing.

She jived with Joey Mcintyre in season one, nearly got her feet broken by "Mr. Two Left Feet" Master P in season two and tangoed with Harry Hamlin last season. However, this season fan favorite Ashly Delgrosso is hanging up her dance shoes.

According to her official website, the cherubic 24-year-old is pregnant with her first child, due in July, "As most of you know season 4 of Dancing with the Stars will begin on March 19th but unfortunately I will not be a part of it. I just received word that the producers will not be taking me back for season four. This is due to the fact that I am expecting my first baby in July. So as disappointing as it is for me to not be on the show this season I am so excited to have my first baby and to be a Mom. There is no calling more important than that of motherhood and I cant wait to be one. I sincerely Hope to be in other upcoming seasons after the baby is born and look forward to performing again for all of you."

Tonight it was the ladies turn to shine and they blew the guys out of the water. Lakisha Jones was by far the story of the night when she took on "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going" from "Dreamgirls." It's the performance of that song that's believed to have been driving all of Jennifer Hudson's award show nominations. So, it was bold and brave for Lakisha to even attempt to tackle it. Randy told her "You layed it out on that stage. Jennifer Hudson watch out." Paula told her, "This is where you belong." Simon made a great comment, "I am very tempted to say to 23 people book your plane tickets home. That was in a different league."

Dish of Salt says: Too bad the Oscar ballots were turned in two days ago, the voting might have been different if Academy members had seen this performance proving that Hudson is not the only big girl who can kill that song.

By Buddy Singer, Access Hollywood Senior Field Producer
...inside the courtroom

Click Here To Watch WTVJ's Live Feed Of The Court Proceedings

*** JUDGE SEIDLIN PLACES CUSTODY OF THE BODY IN THE HANDS OF RICHARD C. MILSTEIN, THE GUARDIAN FOR SMITH'S 5-MONTH-OLD DAUGHTER, DANNIELYNN ***

(3:56 PM) - Judge reads decision, Virgie breaks down, Howard has head down on desk, Birkhead begins to break up as judge says he wants Anna next to her son.

(3:50 PM) - While awaiting the judges decision, Opri, Larry, Virgie and James huddled in a circle, Opri arms tight around Virgie.

(3:11 PM) - Virgie nervously taps her finger on desk as Shelley talks about Anna's email threateing his father-in-law with paternity suit.

(3:00 PM) - Howard does a little head shaking but not much reaction as For Shelley points his finger and says he will never foergive him.

(2:00 PM) - BREAK FOR LUNCH -- OPRI HAS A PRESS CONFERENCE OUTSIDE OF THE COURTHOUSE

(1:23 PM) - A dramatic moment as Texas appears to pass out just before morning session ends. The judge says he's working everyone too hard. In the hallway, as he comes out of chambers he says, "I'm worried about all of us, I'm worried about everyone."

(12:58 PM) - Birkhead and Opri doing a lot of talking while Troy Hollier (the former bodyguard) is on the stand. They're making notes, looking at documents. I get the feeling all the animated discussion has nothing to do with Hollier's testimony.

(12:25 PM) - All the fireworks about the e-mails between Anna and Larry produced plenty of buzz in the courtroom but little, if any, reaction from Stern and Virgie.

Virgie's Camp:
Virgie Arthur - Anna Nicole’s Mother
James Arthur - Anna Nicole’s Step-Father
Stephen Tunstall (from Florida) - Virgie’s Attorney (glasses, peppered hair, pictured)
John O'Quinn (from Texas) - Virgie’s Attorney. Judge Seidlin calls him “Texas” in court.

Stern's Camp:
Howard K. Stern - Anna Nicole’s Companion
Ron Rale - Anna Nicole and Stern’s Attorney (male)
Krista Barth - Stern’s Attorney (blonde woman)

Birkhead's Camp:
Larry Birkhead - Claims he is the father of Dannielynn
Debra Opri - Birkhead’s Attorney (brunette woman)
Nancy Hass - Attorney for Birkhead from Florida (short dark hair)
Susan R. Brown - Attorney for Birkhead from Florida (blonde hair)
Judy - Birkhead’s Sister

Others:
Judge Larry Seidlin - Broward Country Judge, presiding over the case
Donald Hogan - Anna Nicole’s biological father
Richard Milstein - Miami attorney, Dannielynn’s court-appointed guardian

The live performances got off to a bit of a rough start last night with just a few of the guys pulling off decent performances.

First up was Rudy Cardenas who so far has had very little airtime. I noticed he is not wearing a wedding ring though yesterday our research guru, Dan, found something interesting in an article about Rudy Cardenas in the Greeley Tribune, a local Colorado paper. According to the article, fellow finalist Brandon Rogers went to college with Rudy's wife. Hmmm. Further investigation is needed on this one since nowhere has it been said that Rudy is married. He started the night off with an upbeat version of the song "Free Ride". Randy thought it was corny. Paula thought he "started off fantastic." Simon said he has "never heard him do anything unique."
Dish of Salt asks: "Then why the heck did they put him in the Top 24 if he is not unique?"

By Buddy Singer, Access Hollywood Senior Field Producer
...inside the courtroom

Click Here To Watch WTVJ's Live Feed Of The Court Proceedings

(6:40 PM) - Court hearings have ended for the day.

(6:34 PM) - Stern has had little reaction while Birkhead testifies. He shakes his head when Birkhead says Stern can't be the father. Finally a slight smile from Virgie when judge quips about having a tough time deciding where Anna should be buried.

(5:50 PM) - Stern shakes his head as Birkhead talks about Stern sometimes sleeping on his and Anna's couch. Stern takes notes and talks to Barth. Courtroom growing weary as judge presses on. People twisting and turning in seats. Milstein even yawns while waiting to question.

(5:49) - Stern talks to his lawyers and takes notes as Milstein questions Birkhead. Virgie watches and listens.

(5:31 PM) - Lots of theatrics from the lawyers late in the afternoon but little, reaction from Virgie or Birkhead as Stern remains on the stand.

(5:23 PM) - (note from the Web room) Judge Seidlin indicates "We're going to keep going" (into the evening).

(5:18 PM) - Texas gets tough on whether Anna's will was faxed 5 days before her death. The courtroom perks up but Virgie continues to listen without showing emotion.

(5:09 PM) -Virgie listens but shows no emotion as Texas questions Stern about the week of Anna's death.

(5:00 PM) - Virgie shakes her head as Stern states that it was normal for Anna to sound as if she were on drugs.

(4:52 PM) - Virgie not amused by all the attorney posturing. James has his hand on Virgie's shoulder as the judge questions Stern about Anna's drug use.

(4:16 PM) - Texas takes his turn at Stern on the money issue. Tunstall scribbles notes as Stern talks about his small amount of income between 2002 and 2004. Virgie showing no emotion as she listens to Stern's testimony.

(4:07 PM) - Milstein now questioning Stern about receiving money. Birkhead's lawyers doing lots of talking. Virgie taking notes.

I watched the first half hour of American Idol and one thing is for certain: the talent is not as good as in years past. Sundance, Brandon and Nick are just very average.

In fairness, these are the first 3 out of 24, I'm sure it gets a lot better.

Another thing I saw was a promo for the Fox 11 News at 10. First they promo'd "the latest" in the Anna Nicole trial and then Britney checking into rehab.

There is a chunk of the population in America that is grossed out by the fact that celebrity news has dominated our culture...the impression is that real hard news - Iraq, the environment, education, health issues, etc. - has taken a permanent backseat.

I am shockingly (and of course ironically) one of these people.

Once again Access Hollywood lands a big exclusive the digestible way....through hustle and being alert.

Tony Potts predicted the arrival of Larry Birkhead and interviewed him as he walked into the courthouse.

We compete against people who essentially allegedly pay big bucks for their interviews.... but if you're on, you're on. Way to go Tony!

On another note, a celebrity sighting can be fun, but my favorite kind is on the road, car to car. This morning on the 101 freeway heading south, I glanced over to my left and saw Jerry Seinfeld at the wheel. We rolled down our windows and had a brief chat and laugh.

We were going very slowly so it wasn't dangerous.

But Jerry on the road...classic. He was in an Audi V8 with a friend and looking very stylish in a pair of shades. By his enthused response it was clear Jerry enjoys the highway sighting as well.

She's already a fan favorite on "American Idol," but could this pretty brunette be hiding a wild past? In photos circulating on the internet on popular "Idol" blogging sites like JudgeJru http://judgejru.blogspot.com/2007/02/antonella-barba-gone-wild.html , http://www.votefortheworst.com and http://www.toptensources.com/ ,the 20-year-old appears to be seen holding a bottle of Bud Light in her right hand. She also poses with friends who are all holding glasses and cups that appear to have beer in them.

During her audition round on "American Idol" the show featured a back story on Antonella. She was shown splashing in the surf in a bikini with her best friend and fellow auditioner Amanda Coluccio (who did not make the Top 24). In the show, Antonella declared her love for the beach and now its clear she has spent alot of time in the sand.

Photos on the Web site show a topless Antonella posing with a group of three other girls all covering their breasts with their hands.

In other photos she is seen flipping the bird to the camera and dancing suggestively, and in the most shocking, and I guarantee she will be mortified when this photo gets out, Antonella is seen posing, pants down on a toilet.

The photos originally showed up in "Idol" messageboards and it's believed they are personal photos taken off of Antonella's Facebook page.

Though she is never actually seen taking a drink for a show that many young kids look to for role models this could spell bad news for Antonella anyway.

Started in Miami for super bowl...

Then back to la for Grammys then suddenly on Thursday...just four days after Super Bowl....three days before Grammys...on Thursday February 8th I'm inside the Staples Center talking Grammy show producer Ken Erlich around 11:15am pacific time when my blackberry starts vibrating like mad with what I soon learn is an email tip that Anna Nicole Smith has collapsed in Florida and is trying to be resuscitated ...

I speed back to access Hollywood offices....

Immediately go live on MSNBC as my blackberry continues to vibrate with details.

I learn from a source who overheard a Miami police cruiser radio break in with the news Anna Nicole smith has died.

But I need to confirm it through another source...however I'm live on the air.

Rita Cosby is also on with me and she has Ron Rale on the air by phone...he's Anna Nicole's attorney...and he breaks the news...live..that she has indeed died.

And from that moment I have been on the road.

By Buddy Singer, Access Hollywood Senior Field Producer
...inside the courtroom

Click Here To Watch The Live Feed Of The Court Proceedings

(2:00 PM) -- Judge Seidlin stops in hallway to make small talk with media. Asks if everyone is comfortable, if we want him to leave his chambers open for us. When asked if he will have this wrapped up by tomorrow, he responds, "No, Friday." He says goodbye and walks through a doorway.

(1:44 PM) -- Lots of chatter between Barth and Stern, much more than Virgie had with her lawyers. Stern nods in agreement as Virgie states she never met Howard Stern.

(1:40 PM) -- Virgie takes the stand. Howard's turn to listen. He's seated about 10 feet from me. Birkhead, directly in front of me, is less than 10 feet to his right. Stern, right hand to mouth clasps a pen in the same hand. He begins to take notes. Krista Barth puts her arm around his shoulder and whispers to him.

(1:26 PM) -- My thumbs are killing me. I press on.

Virgie looks as if she's had enough. She thanked the judge when he told her she would be getting her chance to have her say. I think she wants it now. Definitely tired of hearing lawyers spout on.

(1:14 PM) -- With judge on the phone, Milstein offers candy to others in court. Immediately following Dr. Perper informs court by phone that body is deteriorating. Virgie listens, bowing head from time to time, husband James rests his left hand on her right shoulder. Virgie looks up continues to listen to call, now dabbing eye with tissue, though no tears are visible.

(1:02 PM) -- As Stern talks about the Anna tape on Greta's show, Larry B's sister whispers "let's watch it." She mentioned this tape to me this morning and would really lilke the court to see it.

(12:51 PM) -- Stern states he doesn't want money, Virgie still writing notes. The Birkhead camp listens intently, Deborah Opri whispering to Larry Birkhead on occasion.

(12:41 PM) -- I should note that Virgie's husband James has been by her side the entire day, often holding her hand or resting his hand on her shoulder. As the tape of Anna is played in the courtroom, Virgie watches showing no emotion as Anna states she has had no relationship with her mother. As tape progresses and Anna's accusations get uglier, Virgie continues to watch without displaying her feelings.

(12:29) -- As Stern recounts his claim that Virgie went to media to say he had murdered Anna, Virgie looks directly at him. She looks down only to continue writing her notes.

(12:22 PM) -- As lawyers argue authenticity of will, Virgie continues to take notes. Virgie looks directly at Stern as he speaks about the lack of contact between mother and daughter.

(11:59 AM) -- Virgie Arthur continues to take notes with a flower headed pen as judge speaks, Stern still on stand talking about his commitment ceremony with Anna. She continues to remain stoic as Judge Seidlin showboats.

by Scott Mantz

Even in today’s crowded, congested, competitive marketplace, it’s still possible for a little movie to go a long way. For proof of that, look no further than the biggest “little” movie of 2006, “Little Miss Sunshine.”

When the $8 million-budgeted indie premiered last January at the Sundance Film Festival, it got immediate attention when Fox Searchlight swooped in and acquired it for a record-breaking $10.5 million. Since then, it opened (on July 26) to glowing reviews, stayed in theaters longer than most Hollywood blockbusters and grossed an impressive $60 million domestically.

Then, in the early hours of Tuesday, January 23 – smack dab in the middle of this year’s Sundance Film Festival – “Sunshine” was nominated for 4 Academy Awards, including the big one, Best Picture. That was just three days after the ensemble comedy won the coveted Producers Guild Award. And since 11 out of the last 17 PGA winners went on to win the Oscar for Best Picture, “Sunshine” emerged a bona-fide front-runner to go the distance.

But that wasn’t always the case. Up until just a few weeks ago, “Sunshine” was perceived as a quirky little film that was lucky just to get nominated. That’s understandable, given that most of the buzz this awards season has been around Forest Whitaker (“The Last King of Scotland”), Helen Mirren (“The Queen”) and, of course, Martin Scorsese (“The Departed”). And though it was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Musical or Comedy, it lost to the much-adored “Dreamgirls,” while the Globe for Best Drama went to “Babel.”

I woke up yesterday morning to the sound of a chainsaw outside my window. The neighbor across the street clearly felt it was appropriate to begin the tree trimming at 7:30am.

Defeated, I rolled over to cozy up to my beloved blackberry. As soon as I turned it on, it started vibrating like crazy-tons of emails were there with the word "Britney" in the subject line. 'Oh no' I thought....what now?

One of the emails contained a play-by-play account of Britney's night...details like how she was crying in her car before entering the hair salon. She shaved her head and the photo looks surprisingly good.... although one gets the feeling it wasn't a glamour move.

Most of the emails were back and forth from our producers as we prepare for Monday’s show. Our coverage is already very detailed and aggressive with all the key players in this melodrama on camera.

My blogs aren’t linear; so much is going on in the world, I hope you’ll indulge the occasional juxtaposition of unrelated topics.

Yesterday the very funny assistants from “Ugly Betty” were on our stage doing a shoot for their show. Michael Urie (Marc) and Becki Newton (Amanda) acted as Nancy and Billy’s assistants at various times throughout the morning. They were hilarious.

The photos were taken on our stage while we were taping the daily show.

Ricky Hoggard Holman could be described as the typical 18-year-old high school senior. He plays volleyball and soccer. He works during the summer as a lifeguard and volunteers at a YMCA camp for kids. When winter strikes, he enjoys building snow forts in his hometown of Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. He dreams of one day of becoming an actor and admits to spending "way too much time" on the computer. Normal, right? Well, what if I told you that this teenaged, Canadian lifeguard just happened to predict the entire Top 24 contestants on America's number one rated, most talked about, most covered show two weeks before the official list came out on Wednesday night? While there have been spoilers before (especially last season when domain name registrations of hollywood round contestants done on the same day were unearthed) no one has ever called the "American Idol" Top 24 100 percent correctly. Just what does Ricky know that we don’t?

I'm watching the Broward County circuit court judge Larry Seidlin holding his preliminary hearing on the Anna Nicole paternity case.

It's a comedy session - Judge Seidlin seems far more interested in landing some zingers than anything else. And he's hot, baby.

His informal, flippant style with all these lawyers is hysterical. He has a grandfatherly approach...Shecky Greene in the house, a Borscht Belt comic...wait, if you listen the voice....its Arnold Horshack!!!!

I'm getting used to seeing Virgie Arthur, Anna's mom, on the scene, but now, thanks to a lucrative arrangement from Inside Edition (I am guessing here, but c'mon) Anna's father, Donald Hogan, appears!

The 24 semi-finalists have been announced but it's going to be an uphill battle for 7 of them when they perform live next week. Up until last night contestants Leslie Hunt, Stephanie Edwards, Amy Krebs, AJ Tabaldo, Nicole Tranquillo, Sabrina Sloan and Jared Cotter had never appeared on the show. As the history of the show has shown in the past, for contestants who had no airtime (anyone remember Patrick Hall? How about Kinnik Sky?) they have very little chance of growing a fan base. So, they will have to sing their little hearts and give a rock solid performance as well as show some personality to even make it past week one. To help you decide where to throw your votes here's some Dish on all 24 contestants

ALAINA ALEXANDER -
· Auditioned in LA
· From Redlands, CA
· 24 years old
· Lives in West Hollywood, CA
· 2000 graduate of Redlands High school
· Got a tattoo of a dove after she made it through to judges
· Has a boyfriend

AJ TABALDO -
· Auditioned in LA
· 22 years old
· From Santa Maria, CA
· He is a supervisor for a shipping service
· Sang the national anthem for Showtime Boxing at Chumash Casino
· He is of Pacific Island decent
· Currently attends Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria
· 2003 graduate of St Joseph High school in Santa Maria.
· He has tried out for American Idol five times!

ANTONELLA BARBA -
· Auditioned in New York City
· 20 Years Old
· From Point Pleasant, NJ
· Attends Catholic University of America in Washington, DC.
· Pursuing a degree in architecture
· Once toured with Monmouth Conservatory in England

BLAKE LEWIS –
· Auditioned in Seattle, WA
· 25 years old
· From Bothell, WA
· Lives in Seattle, WA
· He owns a company called Bshorty productions
· He is a beatbox champion
· He was once part of a band called Kickshaw in Seattle
· His mother and grandfather were professional singers at one point
· He toured with the Columbia Boys Choir in 8th grade
· 1999 Graduate of Inglemoor High school

BRANDON ROGERS -
· Auditioned in LA
· 28 years old
· From Pasadena, CA
· Was a backup singer for Anastasia
· Toured as backup singer for Christina Aguilera for two years
· Has shared the stage with artists like Patti LaBelle, Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys, Earth Wind and Fire, Johnny Mathis, Black Eyed Peas, Anastacia, Angie Stone, and Usher
· Was a jazz vocal studies major at the world-renowned University of North Texas jazz program, where he performed alongside fellow UNT jazzer, a pre-fame Norah Jones
· Released a debut album entitled “Automatic”
· Also works as a voice coach and wedding singer.
· His mother is a published songwriter

CHRIS RICHARDSON –
· Auditioned in NYC
· 22 years old
· From Chesapeake, Virginia
· Attended Great Bridge High School
· He was # 42 on his HS football team
· He studied music composition at Christopher Newport University
· He attended Tidewater Community College
· His mother, Marilyn, was crowned Miss Great Bridge High school in 1975
· While working on his music, Richardson also has worked at the Hooters in Chesapeake, where in 4 1/2 years he advanced to kitchen supervisor.
· He was born in Belgium into a military family

As the above Chinese proverb suggests, Monday was interesting. The lighting grid was down on our stage owing to a faulty breaker, the consequence of working with aging equipment. We didn’t discover this until shortly before we were to shoot the daily show, so it was a bit of a scramble making air, especially since this was our Grammy show. We have a terrific lighting crew, and they were able to light a couple of areas for us, despite the fact that we didn’t have our full lighting complement. Stand lights were a big help. And, preparing for every eventuality, we dug into our handbags for extra flashlights and cyalume sticks in the event that extra illumination was required. Thankfully, it wasn’t.

In production there are often technical glitches which interfere with making air – a piece of equipment goes down, a tape machine doesn’t roll or record properly, an aprisa doesn’t fire. I remember one of my first TV jobs in Nashville, Tennessee, a live shoot where 7 out of 10 cameras were down owing mostly to bad weather. There was a lot of hollering in the control room at the time as I recall, but everything turned out fine. It was a country music show and simpler coverage was ideal, actually, more homey.

Well if there is any doubt that Season Four's Carrie Underwood has been able to take herself beyond just “American Idol” fame, her two Grammy Award wins for Best New Artist and Best Female Vocal Country Performance (not to mention her song, "Jesus, Take the Wheel" picking up Country Song of the Year) have sealed her musical status as one of country music's biggest stars. Meanwhile, the rest of the finalists are still trying to make their mark in the industry. Some have fared better than others. Here's the latest on all twelve of the former Idols.

Carrie Underwood - Since winning the 4th season of “American Idol” in May 2005, Carrie Underwood's debut album SOME HEARTS was released and has gone on to sell an incredible 5 million plus copies. She had three #1 country singles, "Jesus, Take The Wheel," "Don't Forget To Remember Me," and "Before He Cheats." With this album comes a whole list of awards for Carrie. At the Country Music Association Awards, in 2006, she won Female Vocalist of the Year and Horizon Award winner as well as 2 Academy of Country Music Awards, 2 CMT Awards, 2 People's Choice Awards, an American Music Award as Breakthrough Artist. Of all her accolades Carrie told us, "I used to lay in bed at night and practice acceptance speeches that I figured that I would never use when I was little. I never though I would be up there accepting awards in front of all those people."

by Ryan Patterson, Supervising Producer

Some stars are born with amazing DNA... others create what nature didn't give them at the plastic surgeon's office. Mostly- though- it's all about having a personal beauty squad at their disposal day in and day out. A good team can camouflage anything...bad skin, bad hair, lack of sleep, wrinkles, plastic surgery scars, being hung over...you name it.

Yes, it's good to be rich and famous, and even though I am neither, I got a taste of the celebrity life when I was lucky enough to pose for the March issue of Lucky magazine. I was the subject of one of the magazine's regular features, "Hair Diaries."

A wonderful team of people worked their magic- a makeup artist, hair stylist, photographer, lighting assistant and of course- the magazine editor.