Warners Bros. Are Feeling Lucid

Another Archaia comic heading to screenJust a few days after picking up the whimsical dinosaur-next-door title Bolivar, Warner Bros. have made a second deal with comics publisher Archaia. This time it's for Lucid, and it'll once again be developed and produced by Akiva Goldsman.Lucid's set-up is in a slightly skewed version of our own world, where magic exists, and governments employ "combat mages" as spies to ward off international supernatural threats. Our hero is a rookie "Protector of the Realm", taking on a dealer in black market occult technology. Variety describe Lucid as Harry Potter, if Harry Potter grew up and joined the CIA. The comic is by Michael McMillian (who plays Steve in True Blood) and Anna Wieszczyk.That Potter comparison goes some way to explaining Warners' interest in the comic, since there's a large Hogwarts-shaped hole in their production slate these days. All eyes are on a potential franchise.No screewriter is attached yet, but added to the Warner/Archaia mix is Zachary Quinto's Before The Door banner, which developed the comic in the first place, and will oversee the film.

Foreign Actors Dominating 2012 Pilot Lead Casting

The 2012 pilot season is illustrating a growing trend over the last decade in Hollywood: foreign actors are booking the leads that used to go to American performers. This is a not a new development. U.K actors Andrew Garfield, Henry Cavill, and Christian Bale are playing iconic American superheroes Spider-Man, Superman, and Batman respectively in feature films.There are two pilots based on the Beauty and the Beast fairy tale in development, one at ABC and the other at the CW. None of the leads roles in either went to Americans. Irish actor Ruth Bradley was cast as Grace (Beauty) and Scottish actor-singer Darius Campell will play Shiro (Beast) in the ABC project. Canadian actor Kristin Kreuk and New Zealand-born Australian Jay Ryan are playing the leads in the CW pilot. Deadline.com pointed out that of these four actors, Kreuk is the only recognizable name in America thanks to her stint on "Smallville," but the other three are virtually unknown stateside. In addition to these two pilots, other projects this season are favoring actors from abroad. British actor Janet Montgomery has been cast as the lead in the CBS drama pilot "Baby Big Shot," while Oscar-nominee and fellow U.K. actor Minnie Driver will star as one of two leads in NBC's Kari Lizer comedy. Canadian Stephen Amell has been picked to headline "Arrow," the CW pilot based on the American comic character Green Arrow. Colin Ferguson, another Canadian, will star in Bill Lawrence's Fox comedy pilot "Like Father." Irish actor Amy Huberman will be the female lead in the NBC comedy "Animal Kingdom." According to Deadline, she got the job as a result of her first-ever U.S. audition.Pilot season is still in full swing, but it's already that home field advantage no longer matters when it comes to casting in America.

Vive le difference! (Let us convey more from it)

The Academy continues to be blamed because of its insufficient diversity, but when the biz really wants to correct this, the modification needs to start in the grassroots level. The 84th Oscars have no need for anymore analyses on who won and why. However the buildup towards the February. 26 event elevated questions beyond the kudos business -- questions regarding bigotry, contributing to the growing mood of anger and hostility within and outdoors showbiz.In past years, bad-mouthing was an element of the honours season, however it was always fond of films: Whisper campaigns stated "Good Will Hunting," "The Hurricane," "An Attractive Mind," "Slumdog Uniform," "The Hurt Locker" et al were dishonest, factually bogus, whatever.This season, the prospective was the Academy of movement Picture Arts & Sciences itself, because the media spent much energy concentrating on its internal reorganization, the org's "relevance" (an elusive term, at best) and it is membership. Journalists covered this stuff as though AMPAS were the U.S. same as Syria, with gunfire and rioting expected every day now on Wilshire Boulevard.On February. 19, the L.A. Occasions reported the average chronilogical age of Academy voters is 62, the org is 77% male and 94% White. It was not really a surprise to anybody active in the large-dollars honours business. However the study received extensive coverage within the mainstream media and blogs all over the world, lamenting the possible lack of diversity and advocating the Academy to act right away.Nobody would dispute the uneven makeup, but individuals op-erectile dysfunction pieces skipped the larger questions: How diverse may be the entire entertainment industry? For your matter, how diverse would be the Fortune 500 companies or businesses that allegedly embody the near future, for example social-networking sites, Web online companies and tech newcomers? How diverse may be the government?Inside a story associated its stats, the Occasions cited lead actor contender Demian Bichir saying if there have been more Latino Academy people, "That will mean there will be a much more roles for Latin stars and much more movies for (Latin) cinematographers."The org reflects the film industry, it does not make guidelines. This isn't designed to excuse the Academy, but to spread the duty wider.It's not hard to point a finger in a person or group, because then you definitely absolve yourself associated with a responsibility: They ought to fix things.No, all of us should fix things.The AMPAS board includes effective individuals who might help produce change, not always with the Academy however in their daily jobs. Change needs to start in the grassroots level.Some galleries, systems and guilds (WGA, DGA and SAG) have outreach and employment-access programs to coach racial unprivileged and ladies, amongst others. But how about guilds and unions with no programs, or orgs whose job training includes using relatives of their people?And taking care of is a factor. The bottom line is in employing. This is where agencies, galleries, systems, production companies and marketing folks are available in. (When it comes to diversity, the background music industry and ad agencies are way in front of the curve, states one expert.)In 1994-95, Margaret Cho starred in ABC's "All American Girl." Apart from supplying fodder on her standup, the show has another distinction: Since the sitcom format started in 1950, there's been one, repeat one, sitcom starring only Asians and Asian-People in america.SAG and WGA are some of the guilds working against age discrimination. Most of the commentators lamented the truth that the Acad's average voting age is 62, apparently feeling these people aren't capable of decide what's good. Agreed, mix-sections are terrific -- bear in mind that in certain communities, age is respected and elders are thought smart. Exactly what a concept!In strange ways, the 84th Oscars point in the national mood. Superficially, there's the nostalgia factor, as reflected within the show's PR material and theme (happy movie reminiscences), host (Billy Very) and top those who win ("The Artist" and "Hugo"). In occasions of high anxiety, people think existence was in some way better before.But in addition to that, the honours season reflected the nation's feeling of anger and anxiety. People are concerned about their jobs, the economy, new technology, nuclear proliferation, the atmosphere, the entire magilla. People want change, they need it now plus they want someone, anybody, to become responsible. We would like solutions.You felt the anger within the place of work, in shops, in traffic. Kids have acquired the atmosphere, and also you view it in schoolyards. The thing is it within the GOP primaries, where candidates' primary accusations of one another and also the leader is, "You are not the answer you have not been doing enough!" John McCain expressed dismay within the Boston Herald within the unparalleled degree of "negative campaigning and also the progressively personal attacks."The thing is it in journalism, where reporters appear less thinking about the details compared to catching someone using their pants lower. Inappropriate behavior is compensated as Hollywood executives are afraid that a person somewhere might write something negative about the subject.There's plenty -- puh-lenty! -- that should be done in the Academy. But that is a subject for an additional time.Meanwhile, the Academy must do something around the diversity problem. We do too all. Contact Timothy M. Grey at tim.grey@variety.com

NBC News launching radio network

NBC News is venturing into the radio business. The Peacock news division is partnering with Dial Global for a 24-hour radio news network that will combine original content with programming repurposed from NBC News TV properties. NBC News Radio will feature a mix of live breaking news simulcast from NBC and MSNBC with original commentary from the division's biggest names, including Brian Williams, David Gregory, Chuck Todd, Jim Miklaszewski and Andrea Mitchell. "NBC News is already America's number-one news network--now, through this new 24-hour radio news channel we can further expand our unparalleled reach and audience," said NBC News president Steve Capus. Dial Global produces more than 200 radio programs for 8,500 radio stations nationwide. Contact Variety Staff at news@variety.com

Broadway Talks With Nick Jonas

Broadway Talks With Nick Jonas February 29, 2012 Nick Jonas Calling all teenage women. Even if you are not only one, you should not miss Nick Jonas on March 4. Incorporated within the 92nd Street Y's Broadway Talks series, Jonas will discuss his career and Broadway role as J. Pierrepont Finch in "How you can achieve Business Without Really Trying." Jonas remains an actress since he will be a child, that is his fifth Broadway show. Exactly like you would never know, he's also labored in television and contains attacked a music career along with his brothers and sisters. Producer Jordan Roth, leader of Jujamcyn Theaters, will interview the star. Kaufmann Concert Hall, Lexington Avenue at 92nd Street, Manhattan. 8 p.m. $18$50. internet.92y.org. Broadway Talks With Nick Jonas February 29, 2012 Nick Jonas Calling all teenage women. Even if you are not only one, you should not miss Nick Jonas on March 4. Incorporated within the 92nd Street Y's Broadway Talks series, Jonas will discuss his career and Broadway role as J. Pierrepont Finch in "How you can achieve Business Without Really Trying." Jonas remains an actress since he will be a child, that is his fifth Broadway show. Exactly like you would never know, he's also labored in television and contains attacked a music career along with his brothers and sisters. Producer Jordan Roth, leader of Jujamcyn Theaters, will interview the star. Kaufmann Concert Hall, Lexington Avenue at 92nd Street, Manhattan. 8 p.m. $18$50. internet.92y.org.

Gaul's players: The completely new generation

BERENICE BEJOFrom breakout artist to Oscar nominee, it has been an crazy ride recently for your Argentinean-born Bejo. She'd a little sector in John Helgeland's "A Knight's Tale" at the beginning of her career but started developing a status for herself getting a job inside the stylish spy spoof "OSS 117: Cairo, Nest of Spies," directed by her husband, Michel Hazanavicius, and co-starring Jean Dujardin inside the title role. The trio reunited for "The Artist," as well as the relaxation, as they say, is history.ASTRID BERGES-FRISBEYFresh-faced thesp Berges-Frisbey, of French and Catalan roots, has received a banner year, turning up using the titular lead inside the Daniel Auteuil-directed period drama "The Well-Digger's Daughter," but furthermore co-starring alongside The Actor-kaira Pitt and Geoffrey Hurry in Make the most of Marshall's "Pirates in the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides," through which she carried out the sexy mermaid Syrena. Next may be the the spanish language language-lingo pic "El sexo p laInch from helmer Xavier Villaverde.DJINN CARRENARDA self-trained filmmaker who allegedly made his first feature for 150 ($200), Haitian-born, French-based Carrenard written, directed, produced, edited, shot in addition to did the appear for "Donoma," a gritty but hopeful tale of love inside the Paris housing projects that won the exclusive Louis Delluc Prize for first feature, made a decision up with a jury chaired by Cannes topper Gilles Jacob. Carrenard reaches concentrate on his second feature, "Faire l'amour."DELPHINE & MURIEL COULINDirectorial duos made up of two brothers and sisters are normal, but sister authors-helmers Delphine and Muriel Coulin certainly are a rarity. Delphine is yet another novelist, while Muriel features a background in documentaries. For feature debut, "17 Women," of a pregnancy pact inside a school in the seaside village, they shot using their host to birth but made a decision to keep things a lot more familial, employing their parents as assistants round the film.NICOLAS DUVAUCHELLEA frequent presence on French screens lately, thesp Duvauchelle carried out the dashing love fascination with "The Well-Digger's Daughter" a Parisian Child Protection Unit cop in Maiwenn's contempo drama "Polisse" together with unknown guy getting a present for photography inside the recent hit dramedy "On Air." He started acting in 1999 and contains starred in three films of fest fave Claire Denis, including "Love Travail" as well as the recent "White-colored Material," through which he carried out Isabelle Huppert's boy.JEREMIE ELKAIMWith his roles this season Cannes game game titles "Polisse" and "Commitment of War," the 2nd directed by his ex-partner, Valerie Donzelli, and inspired by their unique encounters utilizing their seriously ill youthful boy, Elkaim has decidedly graduated to seniors roles. He appeared to become heavily mixed up in script and music of "War," roles he'll again reprise for Donzelli's latest project, the musical "Submit Hands."ADELE HAENELThe 2012 French Shooting Star within the Berlin Film Festival, Haenel got her first break at 13 in Christophe Ruggia's "The Devils." Her submit lesbian drama "Water Lilies" also acquired her praise, and he or she starred in believe it or not than three Cannes-selected films a year ago: "Iris flowering" and "Warmth Wave," both Directors' Week options, and Bertrand Bonello's bordello-set costume drama "House of Pleasures," which carried out competing. She'll next be viewed in Sylvie Verheyde's "Confession from the Child in the Century."JOEYSTARRJoeystarr (real title: Didier Morville) increased being famous inside the the 19 nineties incorporated within the bad-boy French rap group NTM. His be employed in Maiwenn's 2009 film "About Stars" first got him observed just like a serious thesp, while his role just like a tough cop getting a heart of gold in "Polisse," also by Maiwenn, acquired him further positive notices. His lighter side was displayed this year in romantic dramedy "Love Lasts three years,In . through which he was effectively cast against type.ERIC TOLEDANO & OLIVIER NAKACHE Unlike the duo from the smash comedy hit "The Intouchables," Nakache and Toledano, who was simply making movies together since the 1990's, are very like-minded they finish one another peoples jokes. Like "The Intouchables," their previous three films -- "Je prefere qu'on reste amis," "People Happy Days" and "So Happy Together" -- are very-paced, polished dramedies with social undertones and satirical humor. "We are planning on comedies that have a meaning and reflect our occasions, like the Italian movies in the '60s and '70s directed by Dino Risi or Ettore Scola," states Nakache. Adds Toledano: "We are feeling we've been effective when we make people laugh about super-serious subjects." OMAR SYThe 2011 local success story of French cinema was certainly "The Intouchables," and since the lesser-known headliner alongside established star Francois Cluzet ("Tell NobodyInch), thesp Sy stands to learn most from the runaway hit. Getting experience in standup comedy, Sy has progressively been developing a status for themselves just like a comedy actor. His casting in "The Intouchables" wasn't exactly an unpredicted, since he's labored with helmers Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache by themselves two previous laffers.Related Links: Gaul photos have a great time, will travel Contact Boyd van Hoeij at news@variety.com

Downton Abbey Creator Julian Fellowes Raises the Titanic

The Voice is still a smash. Smash? Not so much.The singing competition show won Monday night for NBC, with 15.7 million viewers and a 5.8 rating in the adults 18-to-49 demo. It dropped a tad from last week's numbers (16.1 million, 5.9), but handily trumped all its competition over its two hours.Check out our recap of The VoiceSmash, on the other hand, fell again, nabbing ... Read More > Other Links From TVGuide.com HouseTwo and a Half MenThe BachelorHow I Met Your MotherGossip GirlCastleHawaii Five-0Mike & MollyThe VoiceAlcatrazSmashHart of Dixie2 Broke Girls

Oscar to give viewers an all-access app

This year's official Oscars app will provide fans unparalleled access to the 84th Academy Awards. If all goes well for ABC and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences on Sunday, the must-have accessory coming out of this year's Academy Awards won't be a Cartier bauble or a Chanel clutch but rather Oscar's official app for the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch.ABC and the Acad are banking on a digital makeover to boost viewer engagement before, during and after the live telecast.ABC and AMPAS stepped up their game for the 2011 telecast with the launch of an iPad app and a host of features on Oscar.com. But last year they went the subscription route, charging 99 for the app and $4.99 for access to all of Oscar.com's red carpet and backstage coverage.This year, the offerings marketed as the Oscar Digital Experience are free to all comers, and there will be exponentially more content and much deeper integration with Facebook, Twitter et al. The site and the app are advertising-supported, but it's clear that the effort is as much an investment in the event's future as it is a revenue-driver for 2012."We've been looking at research all year. People really are watching TV with a device in their lap now," said Karin Gilford, ABC's senior vice president of digital media. "What really completes the experience is having something providing relevant content that is (enhancing) what they're seeing on TV."The app gives official Oscardom the chance to crash the social-media tailgate party that inevitably crops up around big television events. The goal is to make it easy for the online obsessors to connect with one another, post authorized clips and get perks that won't be seen by those who watch the show the old-fashioned way.ABC will have an army of digital producers and directors coordinating the feeds from 20 cameras on the red carpet and dozens more in the backstage area, as well as at the Governors Ball.Ipad users will be able to pick and choose their own camera feeds, from a video grid that shows what's on each camera as well as a ticker feed narrating all the action. There's an "Oscar My Picks" feature allowing users to make winner predictions and then track their progress and those of their social-media friends.Gilford is particularly excited about the use of a new video-organizing technology that will allow them to rapidly meta-tag clips from the many hours of coverage that will stream through Oscar.com on Sunday. Another goal this year is to extend the lifespan of Oscar.com beyond Sunday night, making it a conduit for post-show commentary and analysis.The need to keep the Academy Awards relevant to a broad audience is something the Acad and ABC have grappled with for years, as the size of the show's aud has seesawed based on the accessibility of top nominees.The median age of the kudocast's viewers hit 50 for the first time in 2010 (50.5 to be exact), and it climbed ever so slightly (to 50.6) in 2011, when the telecast brought in 37.9 million viewers. In 2001, the median age was 44.5, according to a recent report from Horizon Media analyst Brad Adgate.To lure the digitally savvy set, ABC, the Acad and the telecast's major advertisers (including Hyundai, Diet Coke and JC Penney) have increased their focus on social media, and they've made a point to coordinate their messages to the show and its digital extensions."Companies can often screw up social media campaigns by viewing them as just another form of advertising. It's not. It's about engagement," says Josh Spector, the Acad's managing director of digital media and marketing.Christina Kounelias, the Acad's chief marketing officer, notes that the "Celebrate the Movies in All of Us" theme of this year's soiree lends itself to such tubthumping in a world where tens of millions of social media users regularly rave and rant about movies old and new. It's no coincidence that Facebook is gradually becoming a distribution platform for Hollywood."The show and the (social media) campaign is all about tapping into that emotional experience we all have with movies," Kounelias says. "We want to give people who aren't in the theater a fun, inclusive experience." Contact Cynthia Littleton at cynthia.littleton@variety.com

Real estate agent gives fans license to rent

The home observed in 'Quantum of Solace' can be obtained like a holiday rental. The home in 'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Beginning - Part 1' can also be open to rent.Companies have lengthy tied along with celebs to market consumer items. Now the vacation rental fees biz is embracing Hollywood to improve reservations -- and provide galleries a brand new space they may want to enter, given its growing revenue potential. FlipKey, a division of TripAdvisor, lately added all of the houses to rent which have made an appearance on television shows like MTV's "Real Life," films like Summit's "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Beginning -- Part 1," the Mission Impossible actioner "Quantum of Solace" and "Scarface," or houses by which Orson Welles and rock stars Jim Morrison and Iggy Pop once resided. Because the site states, "real existence is not such as the movies, however again, a holiday is definitely an avoid real existence. The next time you travel ... you are able to skip Hollywood's celebrity houses tour in support of really residing in a celebrity's home." The rental fees aren't cheap, though. Twi-Hards who wish to slumber within the Brazilian honeymoon beach house where Bella and Edward celebrated their wedding in "Breaking Beginning" will need to pony up $4,000 to $9,000 a evening for that six-bed room casa. The absolute minimum two-evening stay is needed. Bond fans can remain in the four-bed room Rental property Talamone, in Italy's Tuscany region, for $2,323 per evening. But be aware: 007 never remained in the seaside retreat within the film it had been the residence of uncle, Rene Mathis. As well as for some thing local, "Real Life" fans can book the huge eight-bed room Key West residence in a cheaper $1,500 to $2,000 a evening. The oceanfront home, having a 30-vehicle garage, still features the initial colorful decor in the 2006 season from the show, including jacuzzi. An email: FlipKey states the house is "appropriate for that seniors." Other rental fees really are a little misleading. The "Guns of Navarone" house is not in the film but is really a modern structure that unexpectedly happens to perch over the attractive St. Nicholas Bay, in A holiday in greece, in which the war pic was lensed. And Miami's Carlyle Hotel, observed in "Scarface," "The Birdcage" and "Bad Boys 2," is not expensive hotels any longer but a refurbished apartment complex with 19 homes. FlipKey offers apartment 4F, a 1 bed room facing Sea Drive and also the Atlantic Sea for approximately $250 a evening. Some entries are obscure, such as the five-bed room Hawaiian home accustomed to film the Morgan Freeman and Owen Wilson comedy "The Large Bounce." Weekly rental cost: $17,427. To date, FlipKey offers just 20 entertainment entries one of the a lot more than 200,000 holiday rental qualities in the roster. But it is searching for more. While not heavily marketed, the brand new entries can be lucrative for TripAdvisor, which itself was spun removed from online travel agent Expedia, and provide it an advantage over other sites like Otalo, Holiday-Rental fees.co.united kingdom, iStopOver.com, HomeGetaways.com, Niumba.com, RedAwning.com, SkipJump.com, and PerfectFloridaVillas.com. TripAdvisor-top quality websites globally receive a lot more than 50 million unique site visitors every month, and also have 20 million people. The business's revenue is continuing to grow 30% in the last several quarters. The holiday rental market increased to $85 billion this year, based on Radius Global Researching The Market. The amount of that's because of well-off movie buffs travelling in Orson Welles former pad is anybody's guess. Contact Marc Graser at marc.graser@variety.com

OSCARS: Miss Piggy And Kermit To Present

Beverly Hills, CA Hollywood icons Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy will present at the 84th Academy Awards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced today. This is the Muppets fifth appearance at the Academy Awards. They are fresh off their triumphant critical and box office success in Disney’s “The Muppets,” which is Oscar nominated for Best Song, “Man or Muppet.”

Study Charts Actor Diversity on New You are able to Stages

Jeremy Lin provides extensive fans within the theater.The NY Knicks point guard was the talk of RepresentAsian: The Altering Face of Theatre, a roundtable discussion about diversity on NY City stages, presented through the Asian American Entertainers Action Coalition and Fordham College."I am considering how easy it's to miss somebody," stated playwright David Henry Hwang, who moderated the panel of 18 notable agents, casting company directors, stars, company directors, artistic company directors, and much more at Fordham University's Pope Auditorium on Monday evening. "It does not help anybody whenever we do not have equal access."Access, not outcome, was the central problem from the evening, and also the event coincided using the discharge of research, carried out by AAPAC, planning the representation of minority groups on Broadway and NY's 16 most prominent non-profit theaters in the 2006/07 -2010/11 theater seasons.Asian People in america were the only real ethnic group to say no in representation over that point, from landing 3 % of roles in 2006-07 to two percent this year-11. African People in america saw a spike in the quantity of parts from 9 % to 14 % within the same period, and Latino entertainers accomplished more compact growth, from two to three percent. Not remarkably, Caucasians would be the only ethnicity to in excess of-represent, with 80 % of roles on Broadway and non-profits likely to whitened/non-Hispanic stars. Only 61.6 % from the tri-condition population identifies as whitened."It's truly about access," stated panelist Mary McColl, executive director of Actors' Equity. "Ensuring the best people enter into the audition room just because a great audition can alter a specific item on stage."Nancy Piccione, casting director for that Manhattan Theatre Club, also sights granting admission as her role along the way. "My job like a casting director would be to bring stars of races and nationalities in to the audition room," she stated.However, you will find many hurdles that unprivileged must overcome beyond getting within the room. Playwright Douglas Carter Beane ("Sister Act," "Lysistrata Johnson") says many company directors and authors are very close-minded if this involves casting non-typically. Beane urged playwrights to produce possibilities for those stars, specifically in world premiere productions, because the original cast frequently unintentionally becomes web site for those future stagings. "What goes on for the reason that room when you are not there's unbelievable," Beane described. "I encourage other playwrights, because god, we've a lot energy, to help keep a balanced view.InchFor non-traditional casting, certain groups could be overlooked. Based on the study, 9 % of available roles on NY stages were cast colorblindly, as well as individuals available roles, Asian American stars arrived 1.2 percent within the 2010-2011 theater season. African People in america brought with 6.1 % and Latino entertainers performed 2.7 percent of individuals parts within the same period."Nowadays that we are creating, we can't view race as so primary it overcomes the way in which we suspend our disbelief whenever we visit the theater," contended Oskar Eustis, artistic director from the Public Theater.The diversity from the theatergoing audience was another subject, elevated by producer Nelle Nugent ("Stick Fly," "Ghetto Klown"). "The crowd is crucial to opening this up," stated Nugent, remarking that audiences are mainly whitened. However, producer Steven C. Byrd has also try this.InchShould you develop a area, they'll come," stated Byrd, who created Tennessee Williams' "Cat on the Hot Container Roof" on Broadway having a black cast and it is getting Williams' "Streetcar Named Desire," having a multiracial cast, to Broadway this Spring. "They are all tales which are highly relevant to anybody," Byrd stated backstage. "Who does not know, whitened or black, a dysfunctional family?"Casting director Stephanie Klapper stated she's found better results casting non-typically for regional theaters, and based on the study, Asian American stars were more prone to be cast in Shakespeare or musicals. "Each of individuals things require skill," Beane stated, and Byrd contended that non-traditional casting works more effectively for contemporary plays."It isn't about just casting Asians for Asians' sake," stated actor Pun Bandhu, who presently seems in "Wit" on Broadway. "It comes down to casting the very best actor for that role."However, Asian People in america haven't made just as much noise concerning the representation problem as African People in america, and aside from Hwang, Asian stars not have the same prominent playwrights, for example Lorraine Hansberry and August Wilson, to create the various components on their behalf.Artist is yet another problem, as numerous ethnic stars make the pilgrimage out west since the possibilities could be greater. "It appears as with the theater within the last 5 years, we have pretty much let go stars generally,Inch stated casting director Tara Rubin, adding that projects recently generally have more compact casts for financial reasons. "People around the margins are the initial to disappear.InchWhilst there's nobody means to fix the issue, panelists recommended putting more unprivileged on non-profit theater boards, taking care of new playwrights, and raising money.Or everybody can just board the Linsanity bandwagon.InchDoes anybody know once the next Knicks game is?" requested Hwang, overall the almost 3-hour discussion. "We'll do this and we'll will also get more Asians in to the theater."

Coogan accepts phone-hacking deal

LONDON -- British actor Steve Coogan is among the latest victims of phone hacking by the News of the World to accept a settlement from Murdoch-owned News Group Newspapers. Coogan will receive 40,000 ($63,000), but said after the court hearing: "This has never been about the money." He explained he had taken the action to expose the way in which parts of the U.K. press had operated. Coogan added: "Like other people who sued, I was determined to do my part to show the depths to which the press can sink in pursuit of private information. "The police and the Leveson Inquiry (set up by the U.K. government to examine newspaper ethics) will be investigating these matters, but at the time when these civil cases began News International seemed likely to succeed in covering up the hacking scandal completely. "Neither the police nor the government were willing to hold those responsible accountable for unlawful acts." Coogan's case is among more than 50 U.K. lawsuits involving phone hacking that have been resolved. At least five more are pending. These include the former butler to Princess Diana, Paul Burrell. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com

'Leafie' launches 108 Media

Toronto-based 108 Media is launching at the Berlin market by acquiring English-language rights to Korean animated title "Leafie: A Hen Into the Wild." Company will focus on worldwide sales and Canadian distribution of films, TV, gaming and mobile content. Funded by private equity, 108 Media is headed by Abhishek Rastogi, former managing director of Cinesavvy. "Leafie" follows an adventurous hen who escapes from a chicken farm, dreaming of freedom. Pic, produced by Myung Films, racked up 2.2 million admissions over this past summer and sold in 46 countries. 108 Media said an English-lingo version will be released in North American theaters later this year. "Our strategy for 108 Media is a hybrid of a traditional sales model and a transmedia company," Rastogi said. "Rebranding 'Leafie' for Western audiences with an English-language version fits right in that strategy. Our North American theatrical release will showcase the stunning animation and heart-warming narrative of the film and allow us to explore opportunities for mobile content, gaming, comicbooks and apps." The deal was negotiated by Rastogi and Paul Yi, international adviser for Myung Films. Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com

Yahoo, Disney team for Ali Wentworth series

WentworthWalt Disney Co. and Yahoo are joining forces for any daily online short-form series featuring former "The famous host oprah Winfrey Show" correspondent Ali Wentworth. "Daily Shot with Ali Wentworth" will air every week day beginning today on key Yahoo locations and Disney-possessed Babble.com, an internet site heretofore noted for blogs about raising a child. Each episode, which is 3-a few minutes lengthy, might find Wentworth put a comedy spin on news tales that Yahoo's statistics suggest are trending across its websites and highly relevant to parents. Wentworth will shoot each "Shot" from her kitchen or wherever she is actually on that day. "It was attractive to us due to the worthiness-add Ali brings as a result an exceptional voice," stated Erin McPherson, Vice president and mind of programming and originals at Yahoo. "She's an excellent persona to increase the Yahoo selection." "Shot" is going to be created by Disney Interactive Media Group, where Babble is located included in the "moms and family" portfolio of web sites. Wentworth can also get a Babble blog, Ali in Wonderland, which just is actually the title of the memoir she composed that she'll be marketing the following month when it is launched. "Shot" is a co-top quality experience, although the video player is going to be run by Yahoo even if seen on Babble.com. A sponsor continues to be signed that neither company has revealed, although the series will launch without them. "Shot" will operate on Yahoo Screen, the business's new video destination, in addition to Yahoo News and portal Shine, which targets female customers just like Babble does. The partnership with Yahoo is sort of much like one Disney struck this past year with YouTube for any co-top quality kids funnel. Disney brings its abilities and cache for premium programming, as well as in exchange will get linkage to high-traffic Web modems that may send new customers to the Mouse's own qualities. "Shot" is not the very first collaboration between Yahoo and Disney. This past year, Yahoo and ABC News broadened ten years-lengthy partnership that introduced greater discussing of content together with a personalized online version of "Hello America." Coincidentally, "GMA" anchor George Stephanopoulos is married to Wentworth -- a synergy of sorts McPherson stated Yahoo could take advantage of by juxtaposing their particular content. Additionally to "The famous host oprah," Wentworth makes a reputation for herself through projects including as star and creator of "Mind Situation," among the first scripted series to operate on Starz, and roles in films including "It's Complicated." Wentworth may be the latest high-profile title Yahoo has visiting its video choices, where the organization has searched for to boost its game in order to lure more advertising dollars. Tom Hanks, Bill Maher and Morgan Spurlock are some of the known amounts that Yahoo has introduced to the programming slate. Disney acquired Babble last November. Wentworth would be the to begin a slate of video series that'll be layered over the site, with future programming prone to tap into the roster of popular writers the web site counts since it's own. "The way you consider Babble, 'bloggers' is simply too narrow a phrase,Inch stated Brooke Chaffin, senior Vice president from the moms and family within Disney Internet Media Group. "We ought to bring as numerous forums as you possibly can for the storytellers to inform their tales." Adding a topical draw to Babble can also be a part of a bigger reorganization headed by Chaffin from the Disney moms and family division, that is largely composed of web sites full of evergreen content which will turn to Babble they are driving greater daily circulation. Chaffin was introduced to Disney this past year by DIMG co-leader James Pitaro, each of whom formerly labored at Yahoo. Contact Andrew Wallenstein at andrew.wallenstein@variety.com

Is HBO's Horse-Racing Series Luck a Big Gamble?

Dustin Hoffman Pick Six. Furlong. Backstretch. Quinella. Trifecta. Daily Double. These are just a few of the racetrack terms that may be thrown around in HBO's new horse-racing series Luck, which premieres Sunday at 9/8c. From executive producers David Milch and Michael Mann, the gritty show looks at the owners, jockeys and the degenerate gamblers in the horse-racing world. While the lingo, the setting and the overall story line may feel alien to those who don't frequent one of the more than 100 racetracks around the United States, Milch, the man behind Deadwood and NYPD Blue, says that shouldn't deter viewers from watching. "It's an act of faith," says Milch of creating a series on such a foreign topic. "Your fundamental responsibility is to stay true to the deepest nature and intention of the materials and that's what we did." Check out photos of Luck "I think [viewers] can relate to the story the way they relate to any other well-told, dramatic, emotional story," adds Mann. "That's the whole point. If they have a sense of the important things, they'll let the lingo go by, trusting they'll pick it up later." At its basic level, the premise is simple. Chester "Ace" Bernstein (Dustin Hoffman) has just returned from a stint in prison taking the rap for other unsavory types. Now unable to hold an owner's license due to his criminal record, Ace enlists his driver Gus Demitriou (Dennis Farina) to act as the owner of a fleet-footed horse, now trained by Turo Escalante (John Ortiz). Another trainer, played by Nick Nolte, is also looking to make a splash with a horse sired by one of the greats (think of it as Seabiscuit's baby). "Although the racetrack is the beating heart, I'd say the show is more of a study of the characters," Milch insists, adding that even the degenerate gamblers, who live race-to-race by handicapping the winners, will be relatable to viewers. A horse owner himself, Milch would even classify himself as one of them. "My dad took me to the track when I was five years old and identified me as a degenerate gambler then, which is a little hard for a 5-year-old to understand," he says with a laugh. "I've been busy figuring out what that meant for the past 60 years." HBO tries its Luck with David Milch drama starring Dustin Hoffman Worrying about the audience's ability to understand and relate to the series is only one hoop to jump through for Luck. There's also the high expectations from the people whose real lives color this story. "There are certain parochial responses," Milch says of the racetrackers. "It's like the way people are protective of family, and you don't tell any secrets outside the family. It becomes our responsibility to be truthful in our portrayal. If someone is going to get upset, that becomes their business." Not unlike his other series, Milch hopes that audiences will find a passionate connection with Luck through "its ups and its downs, and its tragedies and its successes." And he hopes they make it soon. By nature of the horse-racing circuit and when they'd have to start filming again, the producers are already hard at work on what a second season would look like, though HBO has yet to pick up the series. "I would hope to find out over the next week or two," he says. Will you be tuning in to Luck? Luck premieres Sunday at 9/8c on HBO. HBO Go users can watch the second outing immediately following the premiere.

'The Grey' Survival Guide: Do's And Do nots In Backwoods Movies

Which makes it with an plane crash is not any easy task. Outrunning mythical baby baby wolves could be even more complicated, rather than everyone are capable of doing it with as much ease as Liam Neeson in "The Grey." The survival thriller hits theaters today, and just before going off trying to rough it inside the arctic yourself, do your kindness by reading through through our do's and don't's that causes it to be through this type of ordeal. Here's our report on "The Grey" survival tips: DON'T Become A Jerk Let's take that certain in the table immediately. Once the audience isn't likely to become rooting to suit your needs, they will probably cheer round the baby baby wolves once they acquire you. If the involves an unlikeable character, really the only factor more bloodthirsty in comparison to supernatural baby baby wolves chasing after once you might be the crowd eagerly anticipating your demise. Be kind frequently and early, and you'll no less than survive prior to the second act. May Have A Distinctive Number Of Capabilities In "The Grey," Liam Neeson's character Ottway finds behave as a sniper for your oil company. His job literally entails browsing the cold for just about any wolf later on a-hunting and shooting it from afar. Clearly, he'll survive a lengthy. Part of which causes it to be using a plane crash movie involves obtaining a talent, skill or feature making you indispensable for the survival in the group. Your abilities won't guarantee a free of charge pass within the baby baby wolves, but you'll live a lot more than the guy who not learn how to knife fight. Don't Have A Real Impairment Oh, you will need corrective contacts to find out? That'll be considered an issue. Survival requires you to definitely certainly depend on nothing without any one but yourself. Your glasses will break. You'll lose your inhaler. Your anti-psychotic meds gets lost. You need to be free all dependency if you want to ensure it is out alive because you'll inevitably lose everything when you're running from baby baby wolves. DO Try In Order To Save People That are Heading Lower This ties to the first point about generally like a good person, there's however one more element here. Progressively alter help all your buddies which are likely to eat it, or possibly in cases like this, get eaten, however, you shouldn't try too much. Once they die, you've just bought yourself about a quarter-hour of screen spare time from wolf attack. Someone's prone to come down. If you're intent on which makes it through, ensure it is not you. You Should not Be Less Famous Than Liam Neeson The best and several important survival tip is regarded as the difficult anyone to master. Uncover Liam Neeson, chances are that you're less famous than Liam Neeson. This is not good to get a lean body. If you fail to be no less than as famous as Neeson, carefully connect yourself with him. Make small talk and tight. Here's your best option that causes it to be for the finale. You'll most likely still die, though, because you aren't Liam Neeson. Are you currently presently searching toward seeing "The Grey"? Inform us inside the comments below and also on Twitter!

Newcomer 'dance

New marketers joining the fest fray goal to take advantage of different platforms for his or her large buys:Adopt FilmsSundance's comeback kid is October Films co-founder Shaun Lipsky, whose startup company partners him with Tim Grady, Karen Sternal and several Minnesota backers. After obtaining three niche photos around Toronto ("The Ballad of Genesis and Lady Jaye" due in March, "Mighty Fine" in May and "Nuit #1" in This summer), Adopt Films is searching for an overdue-year theatrical release, plus 6-8 U.S. indie, foreign and doc releases for 2013. "The niche we want to effectively occupy is alongside Kerbside Points of interest," Lipsky states. * * * Position FilmsPaul Brooks (Gold Circle Films) and Jason Blum (Blumhouse Prods.) have released a pickup/production outfit boasting distribution through Universal. After announcing the venture at AFM, senior Vice president of production and purchases Guy Danella is searching to Sundance for Angle's first buy, ideally either high-finish genre material (action, thriller, horror and sci-fi) or perhaps a unique comedy project they are able to expand beyond core census. * * * Large Air StudiosSet to announce their slate within the coming days, the entire-service studio hopes to get some game titles because of its nine-film release slate in 2012, ramping as much as 18 films the coming year. Large Air "endeavors to create its films on all screens from theatrical to DVD to Computers to cell phones to pills and beyond," states a repetition, explaining the business's means of delivering photos on all possible platforms. A vet industry team, including Boss Michael Arrieta, chief content officer Robert Baruc, leader Marc Sternberg and professional Vice president of content Michael Stradford, will attend. * * * Drafthouse FilmsAlamo Drafthouse founder Tim League, together with the distrib's COO James Shapiro (formerly of Anchor Bay) and inventive director Evan Husney, is going to be looking for "wise genre" fare, seeking six additional features to enhance six repetition game titles every year (the 2012 slate boasts "The FP" in March, "Klown" in May and "Bullhead" this spring). "The growing Alamo Drafthouse theater chain will give you the backbone in our rollouts," League states, "and Badass Digest and Fantastic Fest will help on our film and event promotions." * * * LD DistributionAfter years joining with labels like Kerbside on purchases, producer-financier Mickey Liddell's LD Entertainment has released a complete-service outfit headed by Vital Classics alum and self-distribution guru David Dinerstein. "We anticipate delivering a maximum of 4 to 6 films within our newbie, that will change from specialized to wide release," Dinerstein states -- this additionally to creating 4 to 6 movies for approximately $25 million each. (LD already has three photos -- "Killer Joe," "The GatheringInch and "Disconnect" -- within the pipeline.) * * * OWN Documentary Film ClubAfter starting the venture at Sundance this past year, The famous host oprah Winfrey's for-TV nonfiction pic project is going to be back, this time around looking for game titles. "We're searching to get six (paperwork) with this year," states OWN senior Vice president of arranging and purchases Scott Garner, who became a member of the network soon after it acquired 2011 Sundance title "Becoming Chaz." "We're searching for films that inspire and entertain, stimulating a different way of taking into consideration the world." * * * OthersAfter the announcement of the new Weinstein Co. label before Toronto, Magnolia veterinarians Jason Janego and Tom Quinn are stated to possess acquired a minimum of a couple of game titles, fitting an approach to deliver photos and niche entertainment "concurrently across multiple digital and traditional platforms." And more compact-scale distrib ARC Entertainment is anticipated to become scouting with prexy Wealthy Goldberg around.Sundance Film Festival 2012How to brand a fest Tyro focus makes fest no country for old males Target game titles Thrills turn more extreme as indie genre photos evolve Newcomer 'dance Filmmakers liberated to experiment in labs Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

Justified: 6 Explanations Why We are Pumped for Season 3

Timothy Olyphant Let us raise a glass of "apple cake" moonshine in recognition from the very much departed Justified villain Magazines Bennett. Margo Martindale's Emmy-winning portrayal would be a huge a part of what made the Southern-fried Forex drama's second season this type of thrilling ride and can without doubt be considered a tough act to follow along with. And executive producer Graham Yost knows it.Have more scoop in your favorite shows within our Winter TV preview"I'd be laying basically stated we did not take into account that,Inch Yost informs TVGuide.com. "It provides you with some pause that individuals responded so strongly into it. We are incredibly gratified with this, but it is additionally that the bar is placed pretty high."According to what we have seen to date, though, Justified (premiering Tuesday at 10/9c on Forex) appears a lot more than as much as the task. Season 3 finds Raylan (Timothy Olyphant) recuperating from the gunshot wound whilst attempting to wrap his mind around being a father together with his ex-wife Winona (Natalie Zea). Meanwhile, Raylan's friend/enemy Boyd Crowder (Walton Goggins) is busy repairing his family's criminal empire, but his mission to rule Harlan might be impeded by a few new villains: an oily Detroit mobster named Quarles (Neal McDonough) along with a menacing mystery guy named Limehouse (Mykelti Williamson). Behold, six reasons we can not wait to mind to Harlan County:1. We like when Raylan's off his game. As entertaining because it is to look at Raylan function as the gun-slinging hero, he's a far more interesting character when he's considered lower by personal issues. Impending fatherhood - and it is seeming incompatibility with as being a U.S. marshal - usually supplies lots of individuals moments this year. "She has an infant in route,Inch Yost states. "Is the fact that likely to change how he is doing his job? Should he be considered a marshal? They are all large questions for him to cope with.Inch Adds Olyphant: "It provides you with pause [about] the choices you are making and just how you are living your existence. It simply makes everything just a little much deeper, more essential.InchExamine out our listing of TV's most sexy crime martial artists!2. Raylan's only some of the one facing tough options. "Among the styles which has emerged in Season 3 may be the perception of crossing lines," Yost states. "What goes on whenever you draw lines within the sand and say, 'Beyond this I won't go,' then, sooner or later, you are doing that. I'd give consideration to particular stuff that people say in early episodes. Which includes Nick Searcy's Art ("We have seen another side to Art and i believe ... we realise why Art has tolerated Raylan because Art was Raylan in an earlier reason for his career," Yost states) in addition to Boyd and Ava (Joelle Carter)."They are saying, 'We're likely to be this kind of crime operation and never that sort. We are not likely to run whores.We are not likely to do robberies. We are likely to be crooks of influence, pressure, protection which type of factor.'"3. A word: Quarles. After writing Magazines like a lower-home lady by having an icy mean streak, Yost wanted his new villain to become the alternative. Enter McDonough's Quarles, a Detroit mobster who wears $3,000 suits along with a huge grin and longs being the "Oxycontin King of Kentucky." Oh, and that he has their own mean streak. "This person includes a lethality along with a danger that must definitely be believed with," Yost states. Like his weapon of preference, that you simply see within the season premiere, you do not always see him coming.Justified Emmy nominee Margo Martindale: "I've not reached do everything I'm able to do"4. Another word: Limehouse. While Limehouse is evenly as unforgiving as Quarles, his character, who runs a barbecue joint in Noble's Hollow, is interested in obtaining where Magazines left off. Actually, he's possessing a number of Mags' money, that is what draws Boyd (and finally Raylan) in to the all-black neighborhood. "I had been thinking about going through the African-American experience of Harlan," Yost states. "We have had some black criminals from Lexington, however they were kind of interchangeably urban. I figured, 'What's the particular story of black folks coal country?' That brought us towards the character of Limehouse. He's someone who's really quiet and devoted to the thought of safeguarding his life-style and also the good reputation for his community." We obtain the feeling you won't want to see within his slaughterhouse.5. Boyd and Ava = Bonnie and Clyde? Yost states the classic criminal couple was certainly a motivation with this season. While Boyd may be the mastermind, Ava may be the someone to watch. "What lengths is she prepared to go?" Yost asks. "Just how much does she actually want to take part in this factor?Is she only the crime wife who sits both at home and clips coupons, or perhaps is she someone who will get available and lifts the gun from time to time?Inch Search for Ava to become just like harmful having a fry pan as she's having a shotgun.Carla Gugino lands recurring r on FX's Justified6. Carla Gugino guest stars ... as Karen Sisco? Here's the setup: Gugino, who performed among Elmore Leonard's other most beloved figures inside a short-resided ABC drama, turns up in Episode 2 like a Deputy Director Karen Goodall. Oddly enough enough, her surname differs from the final time she and Raylan labored together. Would be the authors recommending the things they think we're? "I'm not sure what you are speaking about," Yost states having a laugh. Fair enough, but tend to we have seen much more of her? "We desired to have a great time because we understood that people want getting her included in the team," Yost states. "Choices need to be made in the future. Is the fact that something she'd enjoy? We are certainly exploring it."Justified premieres Tuesday at 10/9c on Forex. The Growing Season 2 DVD and Blu-ray are actually available.

Colleagues Salute Screen Actors Guild Honoree Mary Tyler Moore

Colleagues Salute Screen Actors Guild Honoree Mary Tyler Moore By Les Spindle January 12, 2012 Photo by SAG When Mary Tyler Moore turned the world on with her incandescent smile and flawless comedic timing as the co-star of CBS's "The Dick Van Dyke Show" (196166), a relative newcomer to showbiz quickly achieved widespread popularity. She sparkled in the role of Laura, the perky but occasionally weepy wife of TV comedy writer Rob Petrie (Dick Van Dyke). Moore subsequently made a quantum career leap when she starred in the trailblazing sitcom "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" (197077), the funny yet incisive portrait of a fiercely independent single career woman making her way through the urban jungle. Winning 29 Emmy Awards, the ensemble series set new standards for sophisticated television comedy. As Moore's versatility grew in a career spanning six decades, she blossomed into a highly respected and beloved performer. To honor her luminous career, the Screen Actors Guild will present Moore with its annual Life Achievement Award at the union's Jan. 29 SAG Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, airing live on TNT and TBS.'Ordinary' Becomes Extraordinary Among Moore's milestone performances are her mesmerizing Oscar-nominated turn as a desperately unhappy suburban matriarch in director Robert Redford's heart-wrenching drama "Ordinary People" (1980); her Tony-winning Broadway portrayal of a character originally played by a man in Brian Clark's "Whose Life Is It Anyway?" (1980); and her work in the raucously satirical film "Flirting With Disaster" (1996), in which Moore hilariously played against type as the abrasive and bawdy adoptive mother of a prodigal son (Ben Stiller).Many acclaimed TV films grace Moore's rsum, such as "First You Cry," "Stolen Babies," "The Gin Game," and especially the bloodcurdling "Like Mother Like Son: The Strange Story of Sante and Kenny Kines," featuring Moore as a sociopathic murderer, with Jean Stapleton as a helpless victim. Moore has also scored strongly when revisiting the skills honed during her early training in dancing and singing, as in the 1967 film musical "Thoroughly Modern Millie" and on many television variety shows and specials. Besides her achievements as a performer, the multifaceted Moore is a devoted philanthropist (for animal rights and as chairman of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) and has been a television producer (for MTM Enterprises, which she founded with her then-husband, producer Grant Tinker).Memories From the Yellow Brick Road In his 2011 memoir, "My Lucky Life In and Out of Show Business," Van Dyke explains how Moore very quickly won him over after she was cast opposite him on "The Dick Van Dyke Show." "I was concerned that Mary wasn't much of a comedienne," he wrote. "But as rehearsals progressed, her timing became perfect. The first time I stood across from her in rehearsal and heard her say, 'Oh, Rob!,' I thought, That's it, we're home." The book also includes Van Dyke's confession of his "crush" on Moore. He asks, "Who wouldn't adore Mary?"Van Dyke's sentiments are shared by many. Moore's peers and associates consider her a beacon of professionalism, talent, warmth, and class. Several of her most distinguished collaborators graciously agreed to provide Back Stage with their recollections of working with her.Ed Asner (the crusty but lovable Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show") says, "I spent seven long years in the trenches with Mary Tyler Moore, and I cannot think of a finer trenchmate. She's a consummate artist, the most generous, giving star of a show I have been around. She allowed us to screw up or sparkle, left it to others to either lift us up or take us down. And all that time, she was doing her part to make the scene work, to make the moment work. Nothing was ever too hard for her to attempt. Granted, of course, we worshipped her on bended knee and cuddled her terribly. She was our star. She truly was, and in the finest sense of the word. She never made things difficult; in fact, she always made things easier. She always filled in her slot to the fullest and never stole from you. She never directed you, never put you down. She respected the talent around her. I describe the seven years of 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' as seven years on the Yellow Brick Road."Carol Channing (wacky millionaire Muzzy Van Hossmere in "Thoroughly Modern Millie") remarks, "What a joy it was to work with Bea [Lillie], Julie [Andrews], and Mary on 'Thoroughly Modern Millie.' Bea was a mentor, while Julie was the rock from whom both Mary and I eagerly took our cues. Mary was a good student. She was very professional and prepared. She possessed a desire and dedication to reach beyond the expectations of others and give the director, the cast, and the audience even more than they had hoped for. I still love that tap-dancing scene in the elevator."Valerie Harper (witty and sharp-tongued Rhoda Morgenstern on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show") speaks about Moore's supportive friendship: "When it was decided that 'Rhoda' would spin off from 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show,' I expressed my trepidation to Mary. I was afraid to leave the rapturously happy, loving environment of her show for the scary unknown. Shegenerous, supportive darling that she issaid, 'C'mon, Val, do it. You don't want to be my sidekick all your life, do you?' 'Yes!' I declared. 'Yes, I do!' And so do millions of others the world over. Lucky, lucky me!"Gavin MacLeod (kind but slyly sardonic Murray Slaughter on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show") offers the following: "In my 60 years of working in show business, Mary Tyler Moore is, without question, the most talented and beautiful boss I have ever had."Rose Marie (drolly funny Sally Rogers on "The Dick Van Dyke Show") shares this: "I was very proud to have the chance to work with Mary and to have her become a part of my life. I know how hard she worked to get into the position she is in today in our business and to be honored by the Screen Actors Guild with their Life Achievement Award. She very much deserves to be so recognized for this award."Actor-writer Carl Reiner, who created the Van Dyke series (which was inspired by Reiner's own life) and who was a semiregular on the show as egomaniacal TV star Alan Brady, shares observations about Moore landing her role: " 'I don't know what I'm looking for,' I told [producer] Sheldon Leonard after reading 25 different girls for the part of Laura for 'The Dick Van Dyke Show.' Sheldon said, 'You'll know when you see her.' And then I saw herMary Tyler Mooreand I knew I had my Laura."In a 2006 Back Stage interview, we asked Moore if there are any missed career opportunities or lost roles along the way that she regrets. She replied that she couldn't think of any. Then she added, "After all, in 'Change of Habit,' I got to be Elvis Presley's last leading lady." Indeed. Colleagues Salute Screen Actors Guild Honoree Mary Tyler Moore By Les Spindle January 12, 2012 PHOTO CREDIT SAG When Mary Tyler Moore turned the world on with her incandescent smile and flawless comedic timing as the co-star of CBS's "The Dick Van Dyke Show" (196166), a relative newcomer to showbiz quickly achieved widespread popularity. She sparkled in the role of Laura, the perky but occasionally weepy wife of TV comedy writer Rob Petrie (Dick Van Dyke). Moore subsequently made a quantum career leap when she starred in the trailblazing sitcom "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" (197077), the funny yet incisive portrait of a fiercely independent single career woman making her way through the urban jungle. Winning 29 Emmy Awards, the ensemble series set new standards for sophisticated television comedy. As Moore's versatility grew in a career spanning six decades, she blossomed into a highly respected and beloved performer. To honor her luminous career, the Screen Actors Guild will present Moore with its annual Life Achievement Award at the union's Jan. 29 SAG Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, airing live on TNT and TBS.'Ordinary' Becomes Extraordinary Among Moore's milestone performances are her mesmerizing Oscar-nominated turn as a desperately unhappy suburban matriarch in director Robert Redford's heart-wrenching drama "Ordinary People" (1980); her Tony-winning Broadway portrayal of a character originally played by a man in Brian Clark's "Whose Life Is It Anyway?" (1980); and her work in the raucously satirical film "Flirting With Disaster" (1996), in which Moore hilariously played against type as the abrasive and bawdy adoptive mother of a prodigal son (Ben Stiller).Many acclaimed TV films grace Moore's rsum, such as "First You Cry," "Stolen Babies," "The Gin Game," and especially the bloodcurdling "Like Mother Like Son: The Strange Story of Sante and Kenny Kines," featuring Moore as a sociopathic murderer, with Jean Stapleton as a helpless victim. Moore has also scored strongly when revisiting the skills honed during her early training in dancing and singing, as in the 1967 film musical "Thoroughly Modern Millie" and on many television variety shows and specials. Besides her achievements as a performer, the multifaceted Moore is a devoted philanthropist (for animal rights and as chairman of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) and has been a television producer (for MTM Enterprises, which she founded with her then-husband, producer Grant Tinker).Memories From the Yellow Brick Road In his 2011 memoir, "My Lucky Life In and Out of Show Business," Van Dyke explains how Moore very quickly won him over after she was cast opposite him on "The Dick Van Dyke Show." "I was concerned that Mary wasn't much of a comedienne," he wrote. "But as rehearsals progressed, her timing became perfect. The first time I stood across from her in rehearsal and heard her say, 'Oh, Rob!,' I thought, That's it, we're home." The book also includes Van Dyke's confession of his "crush" on Moore. He asks, "Who wouldn't adore Mary?"Van Dyke's sentiments are shared by many. Moore's peers and associates consider her a beacon of professionalism, talent, warmth, and class. Several of her most distinguished collaborators graciously agreed to provide Back Stage with their recollections of working with her.Ed Asner (the crusty but lovable Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show") says, "I spent seven long years in the trenches with Mary Tyler Moore, and I cannot think of a finer trenchmate. She's a consummate artist, the most generous, giving star of a show I have been around. She allowed us to screw up or sparkle, left it to others to either lift us up or take us down. And all that time, she was doing her part to make the scene work, to make the moment work. Nothing was ever too hard for her to attempt. Granted, of course, we worshipped her on bended knee and cuddled her terribly. She was our star. She truly was, and in the finest sense of the word. She never made things difficult; in fact, she always made things easier. She always filled in her slot to the fullest and never stole from you. She never directed you, never put you down. She respected the talent around her. I describe the seven years of 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' as seven years on the Yellow Brick Road."Carol Channing (wacky millionaire Muzzy Van Hossmere in "Thoroughly Modern Millie") remarks, "What a joy it was to work with Bea [Lillie], Julie [Andrews], and Mary on 'Thoroughly Modern Millie.' Bea was a mentor, while Julie was the rock from whom both Mary and I eagerly took our cues. Mary was a good student. She was very professional and prepared. She possessed a desire and dedication to reach beyond the expectations of others and give the director, the cast, and the audience even more than they had hoped for. I still love that tap-dancing scene in the elevator."Valerie Harper (witty and sharp-tongued Rhoda Morgenstern on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show") speaks about Moore's supportive friendship: "When it was decided that 'Rhoda' would spin off from 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show,' I expressed my trepidation to Mary. I was afraid to leave the rapturously happy, loving environment of her show for the scary unknown. Shegenerous, supportive darling that she issaid, 'C'mon, Val, do it. You don't want to be my sidekick all your life, do you?' 'Yes!' I declared. 'Yes, I do!' And so do millions of others the world over. Lucky, lucky me!"Gavin MacLeod (kind but slyly sardonic Murray Slaughter on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show") offers the following: "In my 60 years of working in show business, Mary Tyler Moore is, without question, the most talented and beautiful boss I have ever had."Rose Marie (drolly funny Sally Rogers on "The Dick Van Dyke Show") shares this: "I was very proud to have the chance to work with Mary and to have her become a part of my life. I know how hard she worked to get into the position she is in today in our business and to be honored by the Screen Actors Guild with their Life Achievement Award. She very much deserves to be so recognized for this award."Actor-writer Carl Reiner, who created the Van Dyke series (which was inspired by Reiner's own life) and who was a semiregular on the show as egomaniacal TV star Alan Brady, shares observations about Moore landing her role: " 'I don't know what I'm looking for,' I told [producer] Sheldon Leonard after reading 25 different girls for the part of Laura for 'The Dick Van Dyke Show.' Sheldon said, 'You'll know when you see her.' And then I saw herMary Tyler Mooreand I knew I had my Laura."In a 2006 Back Stage interview, we asked Moore if there are any missed career opportunities or lost roles along the way that she regrets. She replied that she couldn't think of any. Then she added, "After all, in 'Change of Habit,' I got to be Elvis Presley's last leading lady." Indeed.

Fox at TCA: House's Future, the Glee Spin-Off and Scoop on Americanidol

Fox logo design design Will Fox close the entrance doors on House's Princeton-Plainsboro? Is Glee still arranging a spin-off following a McKinley High seniors graduate? And seriously, Ryan Seacrest isn't departing Americanidol, right? Convey more scoop inside your favorite shows inside our Winter TV preview Get all the latest Fox news during the cold months TV previews below: Kiefer Sutherland returns to TV in touch: Bid farewell to Jack Bauer Alcatraz's J.J. Abrams: New Fox drama is by using a tropical, but it's not Lost Fox at TCA: What's happening with House, Fringe, Terra Nova as well as the Glee spin-off? Americanidol jams its music show competition, unveils new performance challenges 8 things we learned from Fox's comedy panel: Zooey Deschanel, Megan Mullally and Raising Hope

'Horrible Bosses' Sequel Planned

It's a wonder that anyone doubted the success of a buddy comedy starring three lovable dudes (Jason Bateman, Charlie Day Jason Sudeikis) who hatch an anti-authority kill fest of their bosses -- chief among them Jennifer Aniston playing a sexually deranged dentist. But upon its July release, 'Horrible Bosses' proved any skeptics wrong, raking in a cool $209 million worldwide. Now it looks like Warner Bros. executives are hoping for that second lightning strike. Screenwriters John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein have agreed to pen a sequel to the macabre comedy. Word is that Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jason Sudeikis would return to star as well. The studio is also in talks with director Seth Gordon to return. Will 'Horrible Bosses 2' fall victim to a 'The Hangover II'-like disappointment or, once again, exceed expectations? Check back in 2013 or 2014, when this thing will likely hit theaters. [via THR] [Photo: WB] Follow Moviefone on Twitter Like Moviefone on Facebook