“Elementary” is a modern day adaptation of Sherlock Holmes. Set in New York, Joan Watson (Lucy Liu) takes up the role of sober companion to Holmes (Jonny Lee Miller). Sherlock is a former drug addict and fresh out of rehab, ready to take on more cases for the NYPD. Joan quickly discovers that Sherlock is like no other client she has ever encountered. This eccentric genius takes her all over the city, solving murders, kidnaps and more; soon she finds herself drawn into his work and his world.

Unfortunately the show received a lot of backlash when the idea was launched. BBC threatened to take legal actions over CBS as they, along with some of their fans, believed that “Elementary” was too similar to their own modern day adaptation “Sherlock,” which aired two years earlier and has recently started to prepare for its third season. CBS fought back against allegations, stating that “Our project is a contemporary take on Sherlock Homes that will be based on Holmes, Watson and other characters in the public domain, as well as original characters. We are, of course, respectful of all copyright laws and will not infringe on any stories or works that may still be protected.”

Further criticism came from the decision to cast Lucy Liu as a female version of John Watson. Some people considered this move as destructive to the famous relationship between Holmes and Watson, while others said that this decision was fueled by the producers’ desire to turn their relationship into something romantic. Writer and Executive Producer Robert Doherty defended this decision, saying “There’s this idea that a man and a woman can’t be together on a show especially without needing to be together sexually or in love or whatever, and this is really about the evolution of a friendship and how that happens.”

“Elementary” has so much to offer fans: not only as it is based on much loved character’s from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic but because it is a funny, charming series with great potential.

The dynamic between Sherlock and Holmes as they move from simply a client and his sober companion to friends is wonderful to watch. They argue, they laugh, and they benefit each other. Joan finds passion in detective work while Sherlock gains a friend he can confide in. In fact, most of the relationships on the show are thoroughly enjoyable. The relationship between Sherlock and Captain Gregson, which is sometimes close to that of father and son, contrasts greatly with the bitterness Sherlock often voices about his real father. The banter between Sherlock and Detective Bell as they try to outsmart each other while they work cases together adds humor to the show as well as some humility to Sherlock’s arrogant character.

Emotional drama in “Elementary” is handled very well, particularly in episode 12 titled “M.” We get a deeper glimpse into Sherlock’s past and a darker side to his character, which shocks characters and audience alike. And at the end of the episode there is a heart-wrenching scene between Sherlock and Joan in which we see the vulnerability and rawness in these characters that he had not seen before in the show.

There are a few faults to the show. The episodes can be slightly predictable; often it’s not hard to decipher who the killer is half way through the episode. And in more than one occasion they introduce characters, such as Joan’s family, and then they are forgotten.

That being said, “Elementary” is definitely entertaining and there are so many aspects to the show to look forward to. One example is how they intend to further include the villainous Moriarty, infamous in all Sherlock Holmes stories, who they have only just begun to introduce into the show. And there are other charming, original characters they have added into the show who would be interesting to see more of, such as Alfredo who is introduced in episode 8 “The Long Fuse” and becomes Sherlock’s sponsor, and even Clyde, a tortoise that Sherlock takes from a crime scene and keeps as a pet in episode 13 “The Red Team.”

The most charming aspect this season in the show is watching Sherlock take up Joan as his apprentice detective. In the latest episodes he teaches her how to decipher clues at crime scenes, how to trust her own senses and even tries to make her take up martial arts. Obviously no one quite has the skills like Sherlock Holmes, but Joan does show a lot of promise as a consultant detective.

“Elementary” has a lot to live up to concerning other productions of Sherlock Holmes but CBS has put their own interesting twists to the classic which makes for an entertaining new series. So why not give “Elementary” a try?

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VH1 is known for music programming and reality television; however, that will soon change as the network makes its bold, first attempt at a scripted film,”Crazy Sexy Cool: The TLC Story.” The long awaited film will take viewers on a ride from the group members’ beginnings, to their meteoric rise to the top of the music charts in the 1990s and beyond.

Hip-hop artist and television personality Lil Mama will have the honor of portraying the late Lisa “Left Eye” Lopez. Lil Mama emerged onto the scene in 2007 with her infectious hit single “Lip Gloss” from her “VYP: Voice of the Young People” album. The song attained a Gold certification from the RIAA in 2008, while the album went on to sell 19, 000 copies in its first week and 66,000 copies thereafter. Lil Mama then began serving as a judge on MTV’s “America’s Best Dance Crew“ in 2008 at the age of 19. This will be her first film.

Keke Palmer has been chosen to portray Rozunda “Chili” Thomas. Unlike Lil Mama, Palmer is not new to the film industry. The 19-year-old has appeared in films alongside Laurence Fishburne (‘Akeelah and the Bee’), Tyler Perry (‘Madea’s Family Reunion’), Ice Cube (‘The Longshots’) and Dolly Parton (‘Joyful Noise’), among others. Of her new role, Palmer tells the Daily News, “I’m excited to be a part of this amazing project portraying one of the members of such an iconic group that inspired my passion for music.”

Drew Sidora will round out the cast as Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins. Sidora’s most notable roles are as Lucy Avila in ‘Step Up’, alongside Channing Tatum, and as herself on “The Game”, a television series. When the news first broke of her involvement in the biopic, Sidora took to her twitter account to thank her fans and share a few encouraging words. “Be sure to always believe in yourself. Never give up! Stay optimistic and persistent and amazing things will come into play!”

Though some TLC fans have expressed doubts that the ladies will be able to pull off their portrayals, VH1’s Executive Vice President of Original Programming and Production is confident that the project will be a success. “With this cast, we are thrilled with the talent assembled both in front of and behind the cameras,” he said. “TLC are truly music pioneers and this movie is a fantastic way to expand our scripted push by combining our audience’s passion for music with their love of story. We know our viewers will be eager to go beyond the headlines and into the surprisingly personal, never before told stories of these groundbreaking women.”

TLC’s surviving members, Thomas and Watkins, will serve as the film’s executive producers.

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Michelle Williams continues to expand her brand and make a name for herself in the entertainment industry with a new reality series, My Sister’s Keeper. Produced and distributed by Entertainment One (eOne), the series will follow Williams’ journey of writing and recording her third Gospel album, and other aspects of her life.

“I am very thrilled about this opportunity, to extend into television with the eOne family as well, with this series,” she said in a release.

“Working together on my new gospel album and television series, I am excited to share with everyone a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration and journey of recording for the album, performing, fun family times and other unforgettable experiences out together with my dear sisters.”

One of those sisters sang alongside Williams in a gospel group, United Harmony. Destiny’s Child fans may remember a mini reunion that Williams had during an interview with Ananda Lewis on MTV’s TRL. Fans will have to watch the show to see what musical surprises, if any, the Williams sisters may be cooking up.

“We’re very excited to expand upon our relationship with Michelle on this new collaboration that will provide fans with a peek into her everyday life,” said Tara Long, Senior Vice President of U.S. Alternative Programming.

“eOne’s versatility across all pillars of entertainment from music, film and television through development, production and distribution enables us to offer comprehensive multi-platform opportunities for our partners.”

Williams’ career in entertainment spawns more than a decade. She got her start as a background singer for R&B singer Monica in 1999 and joined Destiny’s Child in 2000.  Alongside Beyoncé Knowles and Kelly Rowland, Williams traveled the globe, selling out shows and collecting major music awards. In 2002, however, she branched out and forged a solo career.

On April 16, 2002 Williams released Heart to Yours via Sanctuary Records and Columbia Records. The album was well received by critics and performed marginally well on the music charts. Do You Know followed in 2004 and featured appearances by former band mates Knowles and Rowland. Knowles and younger sister Solange also wrote and produced on the album. Again, the album received positive reviews. The album did not perform as well as its predecessor though. In 2008 Williams ventured from gospel music and issued a dance/pop album titled Unexpected.  The album was a commercial disappointment. It is Williams’ lowest selling album to date.

In 2003 Williams made her Broadway debut in Aida, replacing Grammy-winning singer Toni Braxton in the lead role. The year 2007 saw Williams star in Oprah Winfrey’s The Color Purple, followed by a ground breaking, historical portrayal as Roxie Hart in Chicago in 2009. Williams is the first woman of color to take on the lead role. In 2011, Williams made a brief departure from the Broadway stage to act in a David E. Talbert play, What My Husband Doesn’t Know. Broadway fans saw Williams return to them in 2013 with a role in Fela!

In addition to being a singer, songwriter and actress, Williams is also a philanthropist, designer and a minority owner of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky.

Image Courtesy : Michelle Williams

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Every year, the YoungArts program of the National YoungArts Foundation for Advancement in the Arts offers 15- to 18-year-old emerging artists from around the country the chance to be mentored by some of the world’s greatest artists in an intimate environment. In this all-new YoungArts MasterClass presentation, four young singers participate in a memorable workshop and performance with a Grammy-winning vocalist when the HBO Family documentary special “Bobby McFerrin: A YoungArts Masterclass” debuts Tuesday, February 12 (7:30-8:00 p.m. ET/PT) on HBO.

Able to range from jazz to pop to classical as easily as he can jump octaves, Grammy-winning vocal virtuoso Bobby McFerrin (the hit single “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”) has collaborated with a diverse array of musicians, from cellist Yo-Yo Ma to pianist Herbie Hancock.

In “Bobby McFerrin: A YoungArts Masterclass,” he prepares four talented mentees – Aaron Casey (2011 YoungArts Winner in Voice), Christine Jones (2011 YoungArts Winner in Theater), Ryan McCartan (2011 YoungArts Winner in Theater and U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts) and Hannah Zazzaro (2011 YoungArts Winner in Voice) – to accompany him in a concert at Germany’s Festspielhaus in Baden Baden.

Selected by the National YoungArts Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that identifies and supports the next generation of artists and contributes to the cultural vitality of the nation, they receive individual instruction from McFerrin, create their own arrangements under his guidance and join him on stage to perform.

McFerrin asks his students to sing “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” in their own styles, then performs his own version and challenges the students to “mess it up” a little, accompanying them with his trademark improvisation. In addition to musical training, the students spend downtime asking about his career and inspiration, and, finally, wondering if it’s really possible to practice improvising. “Get a timer, sing for ten minutes without stopping – do it everyday for three weeks,” replies McFerrin.

“I didn’t think I was going to be this big of a part in the show,” remarks Christine Jones, in disbelief at participating in the Festspielhaus concert in front of 2,500 people. Reflecting on his experience, Aaron Casey says, “To know that a master – a legend – like Bobby McFerrin believes in me, makes me want to believe in myself.” McFerrin feels pride too, noting, “To me, the stage is a platform for adventure, and I think they got a taste of what that feels like.”

In 2011, “Masterclass” received an Emmy nomination in the category of Outstanding Children’s Nonfiction, Reality or Reality-Competition Program.

For more on the show, visit facebook.com/HBODocs and twitter.com @HBODocs #MasterClass.

Image Courtesy : Erinc salor

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CINEMAX has renewed the action series “Banshee” for a second season, scheduled to debut in 2014, it was announced this week by Kary Antholis, president, HBO Miniseries and CINEMAX Programming. The show is currently in its first season, with episodes debuting Friday at 10:00 p.m. (ET/PT).

Executive produced by Jonathan Tropper, David Schickler, Peter Macdissi, Alan Ball and Greg Yaitanes, “Banshee” stars Antony Starr (“Rush”) as Lucas Hood, an ex-con and master thief who assumes the identity of the sheriff of Banshee, Pa., where he continues his criminal activities, even as he’s hunted by the shadowy gangsters he betrayed years earlier. Scripts for the first season are conceived and written by Tropper and Schickler. Writers John Romano (“Monk”), Evan Dunsky (“Two and a Half Men”), and Doug Jung (HBO’s “Big Love”) join Schickler and Tropper for season two.

Also starring in season one of the series are: Ivana Milicevic (“Charlie’s Angels,” HBO’s “Mind of the Married Man”), Ulrich Thomsen (‘The Celebration’), Frankie Faison (“The Good Wife,” HBO’s “The Wire”), Hoon Lee (‘Premium Rush’), Rus Blackwell (“Burn Notice,” HBO’s “Recount”), Matt Servitto (HBO’s “The Sopranos”), Demetrius Grosse (“Justified”), Trieste Kelly Dunn (“Brothers and Sisters”), Ryann Shane (“Blue Bloods”), Daniel Ross Owens (“Prison Break”), Lili Simmons (‘Fat Kid Rules the World’) and Ben Cross (‘Star Trek’, “Ben-Hur”).

The ten-episode first season of “Banshee,” which began January 11, has inspired critical raves, with the Hollywood Reporter calling it “taut, entertaining and smart,” and the Wall Street Journal describing the show as “enticing” and “indisputably satisfying.”

For more on the series, visit cinemax.com/banshee, facebook.com/cinemax, twitter.com @Cinemax #Banshee and youtube.com/Cinemax.

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The most well-known faces of television and movies will be walking down the red carpet on January 13 for one of the biggest award shows in Hollywood. Robert Pattinson, Taylor Swift and Adele are only a few names who will be attending this star-studded evening.

It seems like barely any time has passed since this year’s “People’s Choice Awards” took place at the Nokia Theatre in LA. The beautiful Kaley Cuoco (Penny from the “Big Bang Theory”) hosted the “PCAs” where the most popular artists, actors, and actresses were chosen by the public. ‘Hunger Games’ was the overall winners of the night with 5 awards including Favorite Movie, and leading actress Jennifer Lawrence won Favorite Movie Actress.

Tina Fey (“30 Rock”) and Amy Poehler (“Parks and Recreation”) take over for Ricky Gervais hosting the evening. Known to be two of the funniest women on the screen, their instinct for humor is bound to make for an entertaining evening. And they are no newbies to the “Golden Globes:” Fey has won two of her own and Poehler was nominated for one last year. The duo will be sharing the stage with other famous faces who will be presenting. They include Robert Pattinson, Kerry Washington and Jeremy Renner.

There are 25 categories in the “Golden Globes,” and for each there are 5 nominations. Adele’s ‘Skyfall’ goes head to head against Taylor Swift’s ‘Safe and Sound’ and ‘Les Misérables’ for Best Original Song- Motion Picture. Even the hosts are going up against each other for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series- Comedy or Musical.

Meryl Streep is back this year with her movie ‘Hope Springs’. She is nominated in the category for Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture- Comedy or Musical. Streep has won the most individual awards in the history of the Golden Globes, having 8 to her name. She has also had the most individual nominations, amounting to 27.

This year’s show will be particularly special because afterwards, on January 15, a musical theme composed and performed by internationally renowned musician Yoshiki will be available on iTunes in 111 countries. The money raised will be donated to various charities that the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) choose.

The “Golden Globes” will be held at the International Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton, in Beverly Hills, CA on January 13 5PT/ 8ET.

Who are you most looking forward to seeing and who are you hoping to win this year?

Image Courtesy : Beacon Radio

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What do you get when you combine popular television shows “Entourage” and “How to Make It in America”? BET is hoping that the answer is “Second Generation Wayans,” a new show premiering on January 15 at 10:30 p.m. EST/PST immediately following the premiere of “The Real Husbands of Hollywood” starring Kevin Hart.

“Second Generation Wayans” will follow the journey of Craig Wayans and Damien Dante Wayans as they try to make a name for themselves in Hollywood apart from that of their famous family. Known for comedy, their family includes Keenan Ivory Wayans (“In Living Color,” “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka” and “A Low Down Dirty Shame”), Damon Wayans (“Major Payne” and “My Wife & Kids”), Kim Wayans (“Juwanna Man” and “Pariah”)  and Shawn & Marlon Wayans (“The Wayans Bros.,” “Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood,” “Scary Movie” and “White Chicks”).

Attempting to forge a career in the shadows of their uncles and aunt will not be easy; however, Craig and Damien are up for the challenge. Helping them along the way is their uncle Marlon Wayans who will executive produce their show.

“What’s dope is it’s a progression of what we did and yet a departure at the same time. It will always have that Wayans flavor, that seasoning,” Marlon told BET.com.

“We’ve done so much broad stuff, but this is a more grounded template. It’s gonna push as far as you can go, but this series has heart and it’s funny.”

Of the new scripted series Loretha Jones, BET’s President of Original Programming, said in an official press release that “the Wayans family name is synonymous with comedy and entertainment, and you’ll indulge in plenty of laughter and amusement in “Second Generation Wayans.” You’ll also witness firsthand that life as a Wayans and childhood star isn’t all fun and games in Hollywood. In a way, this series is a behind the scenes look at what it’s like to juggle the pressures of being famous while trying to create your own path.”

Marlon knows better than anyone how difficult it is to make a name for oneself in a well known family, so he was the perfect person to  offer advice to his nephews.

“It’s a gift and a curse. You own it and you don’t fight it against it. You have to just be you. I never tried to be Keenan, I never tried to be Damon, I never tried to be Shawn. I can’t be Kim. I don’t have t—–s,” Marlon said.

“I just wanted to be Marlon and I tried to be the best Marlon I could be. Then I created my own shadow. It’s not a competition. One success is a success for us all. [You’ve got to] stand in your light.”

For more information on “Second Generation Wayans” log onto BET.com

Image Courtesy : Second Generation Wayans

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New York, U.S.A. — Donald Trump’s Miss Universe Organization secured a decisive victory in its defamation suit against the former Miss Pennsylvania USA contestant who publicly accused the Organization of rigging the results of the Miss USA pageant.  Earlier this year, after failing to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the nationally televised Miss USA pageant, Sheena Monnin, the contestant from Pennsylvania, began a slanderous campaign alleging that the results of the pageant were pre-determined. These allegations have now been legally discredited.

In the days after the pageant Monnin made several damaging public comments asserting she had irrefutable proof the pageant was rigged, and that she would not be deterred in her “quest for the truth.” Despite this claim, Monnin refused offers by the Miss Universe Organization to demonstrate the integrity of the voting process, instead choosing to seek publicity through national media outlets.  In response, the Miss Universe Organization filed an arbitration action in New York.

Pageant owner, Donald Trump, called Monnin’s actions “disgraceful” and added “we cannot allow a disgruntled contestant to make false and reckless statements which are damaging to the many people who have devoted their hearts and souls to the “Miss Universe,” Miss USA” and “Miss Teen USA” pageant systems.”

After considering all of the testimony and other evidence presented, former United States District Court Magistrate Judge, The Honorable Theodore H. Katz issued an opinion concluding that Monnin defamed the Miss Universe Organization and awarding $5 million in damages.

The opinion finds that “the method in which the Miss USA Pageant is judged . . . precludes any reasonable possibility that the judging was rigged.” Judge Katz stated that Monnin’s “defamatory statements” about the Organization “were false,” “showed a reckless disregard” for the facts, and were “harmful to [the Organization's] business reputation.”  As a result of this clear showing of defamation, the Arbitrator concluded that the Organization was entitled to $5 million in damages.

“We are pleased that the integrity of the Miss USA pageant remains intact,” says Paula Shugart, President of the Miss Universe Organization. “We were always confident in what the outcome would be as the truth was on our side. Ms. Monnin could have avoided all of this had she chosen to act responsibly rather than seeking her 15 minutes of fame. Her reckless actions affected many people, including our state directors, the young women who participate in our system and Miss USA Olivia Culpo, who was the rightful winner of the pageant. We simply could not sit idly by and not take action while she pursued her personal agenda to the detriment of everyone affiliated with our company.”

Culpo will compete as Miss USA during the worldwide telecast of the 2012 “Miss Universe” pageant airing live from the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, this Wednesday, December 19 at 8PM ET on NBC.

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Silver Spring, U.S.A. — Next month, Science Channel will premiere “Stuff You Should Know” – a new genre-bending television series about a real podcast that’s set in a fictional world.

Let us explain…Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant are two real guys – uber-popular podcasters and actual Discovery Communications employees. Their podcast, also called “Stuff You Should Know”, is top ten on iTunes with more than 5 million monthly downloads. On January 19, at 10:00 PM ET/PT, Science Channel will follow Josh and Chuck inside and outside the recording booth with “Stuff You Should Know”, a series that combines all the delicious informational nuggets of their podcast and wraps them in deadpan mockumentary-style humor. Along for the ride are a wide array of guests making cameo appearances, including John Hodgman, Sarah Silverman, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Rufus Wainwright, and Michio Kaku.

Each half-hour episode takes place at HowStuffWorks, a fictionalized podcast factory where Josh and Chuck tackle modern life and corporate culture while also juggling their insatiable thirst for peculiar knowledge and wacky curiosities. The actual podcasts – which discuss topics from zombies to artificial intelligence to alien hand syndrome – are woven into each plot where scientific facts collide with Josh and Chuck’s sublimely ridiculous adventures. “Stuff You Should Know” is a totally unique and highly entertaining series blending cerebral wit and sarcasm with illuminating insights on addictively buzzable subjects.

‘”Stuff You Should Know” is a different television experience.  It’s a novel combination of sticky, fascinating information and smart, provocative humor,’ said Debbie Adler Myers, General Manager and Executive Vice President of Science Channel. ‘We’re bringing Josh and Chuck to the masses, including their legions of podcast followers and those who will meet them for the first time on Science Channel. From television, to podcasts, to online, to short-form; “Stuff You Should Know” is an enormously entertaining and immersive 360 degree experience’

Full episodes of “Stuff You Should Know” will be available for download on iTunes the day following their premieres. To commemorate the series launch, the debut episode will be offered free of charge beginning on January 20. Short form content featuring Josh and Chuck also can be found online on ScienceChannel.com, StuffYouShouldKnow.com, and Youtube.com/ScienceChannel.

“Stuff You Should Know” is produced by School of Humans. L. C. Crowley is director and executive producer for School of Humans.  Julie Smith is executive producer. Rocky Collins is executive producer and Bernadette McDaid is vice president of production for Science Channel. Debbie Adler Myers is General Manager and Executive Vice President of Science Channel. Full series description below:

Episode 1: Brains Gone Wild
Premieres Saturday, January 19 at 10PM ET/PT
In the premiere episode, Josh and Chuck’s boss, Steve, brings a man who suffers from alien hand syndrome to the office for the guys to do a podcast about him. The man’s hand has a grudge against Josh, and Josh suspects all is not what it seems. In their podcast, Josh and Chuck discuss brain anomalies including alien hands, split brains and dual personalities.

Episode 2: The CSI Effect
Premieres Saturday, January 19 at 10:30PM ET/PT
In episode two, in preparation for their podcast on forensics, Steve sets up a ride-along for Josh and Chuck with the Atlanta police department. As Josh and Chuck shed their staunchly-held beliefs based on TV series, the yin-and-yang duo of Detectives Johnson and Hillburn open their eyes to the realities of life on the force.  The guys focus on forensics and the “science in the service of justice” for their podcast.

Image Courtesy : Stuff You Should Know

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New York, U.S.A. — Superstar chef Anne Burrell hits the pavement to help prominent restaurants around the country find their most valuable employee – the Executive Chef. In season two of Food Network’s “Chef Wanted with Anne Burrell” premiering Thursday, January 31 at 10pm ET/PT Chef Anne puts four top-level candidates through the ultimate job interview as she tests their culinary chops and business savvy in kitchen challenges that run the gamut.

From testing their resourcefulness by creating a delicious dish using only four ingredients, to assessing their ability to pair their own dishes with a signature beer from the restaurant’s menu, these chefs are in for the challenge of their lives. For the final two chefs it all boils down to one night of service when they are handed the keys to the restaurant and, potentially, the job of their dreams.

“Anne’s culinary savvy and tough love come together to put these aspiring Executive Chefs through the toughest job interview they’ll ever face,” said Bob Tuschman, General Manager and Senior Vice President Programming, Food Network. “She brings out the best in these chefs, and viewers can’t help but root for their success.”

Over the thirteen-episode season, determined chefs from across the country are put through unpredictable culinary challenges.  Whether it’s a test of their Italian scratch cooking skills and their knowledge of the regional cuisine at the immense Tuscan Kitchen in New Hampshire; assessing their ability to work with the scraps of high-end ingredients while creating a whole new menu for Mirabelle Restaurant in Los Angeles; or challenging their creativity by preparing a gourmet version of a traditional Puerto Rican dish for Oceano’s menu in Puerto Rico, each chef will devote blood, sweat and tears to prove to Anne that they are qualified to be Executive Chef.

About Anne Burrell

Anne Burrell has always stood out in the restaurant business for her remarkable culinary talent, bold and creative dishes, and her trademark spiky blond hair. After training at New York’s Culinary Institute of America and Italy’s Culinary Institute for Foreigners, she gained hands-on experience at notable New York restaurants including Felidia, Savoy, Lumi, and Italian Wine Merchants. Anne has also battled on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America” as Mario Batali’s energetic and reliable sous chef.

Additionally, Anne taught for three years at New York’s Institute of Culinary Education. She served as Executive Chef at New York hot-spot Centro Vinoteca from its opening in July 2007 through September 2008. She stars in “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef” and “Worst Cooks in America” on Food Network. Anne’s bestselling cookbook “Cook Like A Rock Star” (Clarkson Potter) was released in October, 2011.

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This holiday season, Fans of Canadian stand-up comedian Ivan Decker can download his new comedy special for free. From http://ivan-decker.thestandupcomedians.com - click the “Buy the show right now” button – check the I have a coupon box and enter the word spider (lower-case) and hit apply.

“It’s been a great year and I just want to thank everyone for their support. People are really enjoying the special and coming out to see my live shows – this is my small way of saying thanks.” said Decker.

The digital download site thestandupcomedians.com, was designed to give comedians a way to connect with fans in a new way. So far, it sounds like everyone’s enjoying it,” said co-founder Paul Breau.

About Ivan Decker

Ivan Decker has appeared at the Montreal Just for Laughs festival and has various TV and Radio appearances including his own half-hour comedy special on CTV and as a guest on both the radio and the television versions of the popular CBC program titled “the Debaters.”

Founded by Paul Breau and Darrell Uhearn in 2012, They Killed It Productions, creates original independently financed and produced stand-up comedy specials for broadcast. The company’s newest venture, TheStandUpComedians.com, delivers original stand-up comedy titles to download-to-own DRM-free for $5. For more information, please visit http://thestandupcomedians.com

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Perth, Australia — An Australian comedy troupe is poking fun at TV news media in what promises to be a refreshing and creative web comedy series. “Blowflies” is the result of more than a year of hard work and perseverance on the part of Blue Otter Films, the production team behind the show.

The concept is simple: “Blowflies” follows the oddball exploits of a fictional news team at NTG Today who squabble, play pranks on each other, and generally do everything except report the news.

Firmly rooted in the tradition of “The Office,” “Scrubs” and “Arrested Development,” “Blowflies” focuses on Nicole, an earnest and hard-working young reporter who just started at NTG Today, a current affairs show similar to the sensationalist news programs that grow increasingly popular worldwide. Unfortunately, Nicole quickly finds out that she is the only one in the office who cares about being a journalist and doing a good job. Or any job, for that matter.

The pilot episode of “Blowflies” covers Nicole’s first day at NTG Today. As it happens, her new boss is less interested in Nicole’s journalistic skills and more interested in her nephew’s baked goods. Looking for a reason to fire Nicole, her boss creates a contest between Nicole and her nephew in which the winner stays on the staff and the loser is out of a job.

“Our goal is simply to make people laugh,” says Jon Walker, producer of “Blowflies”. “It’s been a long process for everyone involved, but now that the series has launched, all that work has paid off. We hope to make loyal viewers out of everyone who visits the website.”

Episode 1 of “Blowflies” was released on December 2nd and a total of six episodes will eventually comprise season 1. The series is freely available both on YouTube and the Blowflies website. Fans can also interact with the actors and crew on the Blowflies Facebook.

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Chandler, U.S.A. — A USA Today article has reported a telethon put on to raise funds for Hurricane Sandy victims brought in $23 million. The telethon, presented by the American Red Cross, aired on NBC earlier this month. Christian Weems, an active participant in community service efforts, made note of the generosity of her fellow Americans.

According to the news piece, New Jersey natives Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi were featured performers during the telethon. Popular recording artist and star of the hit NBC television program The Voice Christina Aguilera was also featured. Matt Lauer of the station’s wildly successful morning show Today, hosted the event. Nightly News anchor Brian Williams also stopped by.

In addition to its featured performers, the article noted the telethon provided viewers the opportunity to take in a variety of musical acts. New Yorker Billy Joel, along with rock band Aerosmith and R&B artist Mary J. Blige entertained the crowd. Saturday Night Live alum and current television stars Tiny Fey and Jimmy Fallon provided comedic relief.

Christian Weems was heartened to hear of the telethon’s overwhelming success. She has a good deal of community service experience under her belt, including the organization of a relief effort following Hurricane Katrina. After that storm devastated much of New Orleans and its surrounding areas, she spearheaded a drive to make hygiene kits for citizens. The people of her hometown Chandler, Arizona, donated supplies that resulted in the delivery of 2,500 kits.

In statement about the most recent relief efforts, Christian commented: “What an amazing testimony of the goodwill of people and the positive impact we can have when we pull together during a time of crisis. Let us not forget that more help is still needed in many of the areas that were damaged most by Sandy and that these communities will need help for years to come.”

The article also highlighted appearances were made by actors Kevin Bacon, Whoopi Goldberg and Danny DeVito as well as comedian Jon Stewart.

In 2005, the broadcast company held a similar telethon to solicit donations for Hurricane Katrina victims. The article noted that show brought in $40 million worth of support.

Image Courtesy : Anton Oparin / Shutterstock.com

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Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, one-third of super girl group TLC, is ready to make her comeback. At the age of forty-two the raspy voiced songstress is stepping back into the limelight with a new reality show titled “Totally T-Boz” which will premiere on January 1.

The reality show will capture Watkins attempting to reclaim her position in the music industry as well as some of her most vulnerable moments including her divorce, financial problems and life threatening illnesses.

In a sneak peek of the first episode, Watkins meets with music producer Bangladesh (Beyoncé, Missy Elliot, Kelly Rowland, etc.) who expresses his doubts about T-Boz’s commitment to crafting a new album. He has some serious questions for which Watkins does not seem to have the answers. One thing that T-Boz does make clear, however, is that she does not mind proving herself to music consumers.

“I guess I have to prove myself all over again, even if it’s to the world,” said Watkins. “I don’t have a problem doing that.”

Proving herself to the world may be harder than she expects. Indeed, the music industry has seen many changes since her days of girl group domination alongside Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas and Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes. The last full length album that Watkins was featured on was TLC’s ’3D’.  Released in 2002, seven months after the car crash death of Lopes, 3D achieved platinum status in the United States.

That same year T-Boz was hospitalized for four months due to complications of sickle cell anemia. The singer had been diagnosed with the disease during her early childhood and went public with her illness in 1996.  She later became a spokesperson for the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America.

In 2004, Watkins filed for divorce from her rapper husband Mack 10. The two married in 2000 and welcomed a daughter, Chase, shortly after their nuptials. In the years since the dissolution of her marriage, Watkins has had to care for her daughter on her own while battling sickle cell anemia and, most recently, a brain tumor. Mack 10 reportedly owes the singer more than $250,000 in back child support. Her medical issues and lack of support from her ex-husband led Watkins to file for bankruptcy in 2011.

“Totally T-Boz” will also chronicle Watkins’ challenges and joys of single parenthood. The singer is not necessarily alone though. Along for the ride are her support system which includes her younger brother, Koya, cousins Barb and Chris and friend Tae-Tae, as well as her business partner, Tara. “Totally T-Boz” will premiere on January 1 at 8/7c on the TLC network.

Image Courtesy : Featureflash / Shutterstock.com

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New York, U.S.A. — As our nation reels from the terrible events in Newtown, Connecticut, The Dr. Oz Show will offer a special broadcast Monday, December 17, that will examine the issues many people face upon learning of the shooting on Friday.

Because of the unique scale and horror of the murders, it’s normal for people to be deeply affected by the news – and to experience painful and potentially dangerous stress symptoms. In addition to the physical manifestations of stress, the emotional, psychological and spiritual toll on the nation is great, and other major shootings such as the Aurora movie theater shooting, the Virginia Tech massacre and the Columbine school shooting show us that crisis counseling and other resources are necessary, even for people who are far removed from the actual events.

“We stand in solidarity as a nation with those who are suffering so deeply in Newtown,” said host Mehmet Oz, M.D. ”We will devote Monday’s show to an open discussion to come together and heal as a country and support one another to discuss the healthiest ways to deal with this unspeakable tragedy – physically, emotionally and spiritually.”

The show will tape Monday morning and air in the afternoon in the majority of U.S. markets.  Those cities that regularly air The Dr. Oz Show after 2 p.m. EST will carry the show in its entirety.

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Washington, U.S.A. — In a publishing first for National Geographic magazine, each copy of the January 2013 issue will feature five covers highlighting the Society’s 125th anniversary theme, “A New Age of Exploration.” The multiple covers will be included in the worldwide English-language edition and in 12 local-language editions and are exclusively supported by Rolex. These editions are read by more than 50 million people around the globe.

The January covers highlight the superlatives of exploration — farthest, wildest, smallest, highest and deepest. The top cover spotlights the farthest reaches of space travel as it looks at ”Why We Explore. “The four additional covers profile other ways exploration is being pushed to the limits: The Wildest focuses on saving Ecuador’s pristine rain forest; the Smallest looks at the invisible world of microbes; the Highest features mountaineer Cory Richards; and the Deepest highlights filmmaker James Cameron’s solo dive to the Mariana Trench.

The “New Age of Exploration” theme will be marked Society-wide throughout 2013, including the National Geographic Channels, website, books, magazines, video and live events. The yearlong initiative has been made possible through a 125th anniversary partnership with Rolex.

National Geographic Channels will premiere a 125th anniversary special, “A New Age of Exploration: National Geographic at 125,” on Friday, January 11, in the United States and globally throughout the month. The program profiles the new superheroes of exploration — amazing people who are forging new ground as they square off against the latest frontiers. National Geographic Channels will dedicate more than 125 hours of programming to the theme of exploration throughout the year in its “Explorer Top 125″ programming event.

A dynamic online hub at www.nationalgeographic.com/125 will include special features such as an interactive exploration timeline, videos, interviews and photo galleries updated regularly during the Society’s 12-month focus on the future of exploration.

On June 13, 2013, the 125th anniversary will be celebrated at a “National Geographic Evening of Exploration” gala, where the Society’s top medals and honors will be awarded to explorers and other recipients. All proceeds from the gala will go to National Geographic’s Fund for Exploration.

“For 125 years, National Geographic has been at the forefront of discovery, driven by a passion and purpose to explore and illuminate the world. And there is so much more to know to help us reimagine not only our world but our place in it,” said Claudia Malley, executive vice president and worldwide publisher, National Geographic Global Media. “I can think of no better partner than Rolex, which is at the forefront of innovation and exploration, to join us in this quest.”

“With its shared passion for exploration, Rolex is delighted to partner with National Geographic on its 125th anniversary initiative. For decades, Rolex has supported pioneers of exploration, from the tallest mountain to the deepest ocean trench, and we look forward to being there, wherever man dares to venture next,” said Arnaud Boetsch, communications & image manager of Rolex SA.

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East Sussex, England — Launching on Youtube on Monday, December 17, ‘Freedom For Birth’ is an abridged 15 minute version of the full-length campaigning documentary made by British filmmaking couple, Toni Harman and Alex Wakeford as part of their “One World Birth” global film project.

‘Freedom For Birth’ features academics, doctors, midwives and Human Rights lawyers calling for all women to be afforded real choice as to where and how they give birth and for those choices to be respected by all care providers.

Toni Harman, the film’s co-Director, says, “We were inspired to make the film after the difficult birth of our daughter five years ago where a cascade of medical interventions culminated in a caesarean. As parents in the hospital delivery room, we felt shut out of the decision-making process. We felt we weren’t offered any real choice. When we started making Freedom For Birth, we discovered that the right to choose the circumstances of where and how a woman gives birth has recently been recognised by the European Court of Human Rights (Ternovszky vs Hungary no. 67545/09 14 December 2010) and yet, women’s rights in childbirth are routinely being violated not just in Europe, but in many countries around the world.”

‘Freedom For Birth’ highlights how, in some countries today, women who want to have a normal vaginal birth are sometimes forced by judges to have c-sections and some are threatened with having their baby taken away by child welfare services if they refuse to sign the consent form. In some countries, if a woman wants to have a home birth supported by a midwife, those midwives face criminal prosecution. Some midwives like Ágnes Gereb in Hungary have even been imprisoned.

Hermine Hayes-Klein, US lawyer and organiser of the Human Rights in Childbirth conference held at the Hague earlier this year, says, “Too many birth professionals are labouring under the illusion that a woman can be told what to do and that her job is to do what she’s told. When a birthing woman doesn’t do what she is told, but instead asks for the information necessary to make a decision appropriate for her and her baby, these providers assert that she is suddenly in conflict with her unborn child and use this false conflict to justify coercion and force.”

The full-length (58 minute) ‘Freedom For Birth’ documentary launched on September 20, 2012 with over 1,000 simultaneous screenings held in 50 countries in 17 different languages including screenings hosted by the Royal College of Midwives in London, the Museum of Motherhood in New York and Yale University.

Alex Wakeford, the film’s other co-Director says, “We estimate that 100,000 people saw the film on the launch day. It prompted many to set up local action groups and create petitions. But what if, through the release of a free short web version of our film, we could take this even further? We want as many people as possible to see the film so that they become aware of their rights in birth. The next step is to connect individuals who feel disenfranchised, who feel passionate about this issue but who feel their voice isn’t being heard. What if we could connect all these voices together into one loud powerful voice to help bring about change? Suddenly, this is more than just a campaign, this has the potential to be a global revolution”.

Hermine Hayes-Klein adds, “‘Freedom For Birth’ has been embraced around the world as more than a documentary, but as a conversation about the issues of universal and fundamental concern to birthing women everywhere, a conversation that everybody can join. The film has literally gathered individuals into regional groups and regional groups into a global movement”.

The online campaign is being launched on the “One World Birth” web site and on YouTube on Monday, December 17 2012. For more information, visit http://oneworldbirth.net.

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Toronto, Canada — Inspiration strikes again. Back with 10 new players, and 23 even bigger and bolder challenges,  returns to Discovery for a second explosive season, premiering Monday, January 14 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. An original Canadian series – and smash hit – from Boxing Cats Productions, Season 2 returns with eight new episodes – plus a bonus ‘Survival Guide to “Canada’s Greatest Know-it-all”‘ wrap-up special – featuring 10 of the country’s biggest self-proclaimed smarties, competing head-to-head in a supersized arena of grit and wit.

With physical and mental challenges designed to test their superior knowledge, problem-solving skills, leadership, cooperation, and game-playing strategy, this brains-and-brawn series is the perfect forum to test their mettle. The CGKIA Class of 2013 watched the epic and record-breaking first season, and think they know how to beat the game. But this will only be true for the last player standing…the one who claims the ultimate title of “Canada’s Greatest Know-it-all.”

Watch as these Know-It-Alls are thrown out of an airplane and during a 40-second free-fall, must memorize the giant letters scattered in the landing field, then create as many words as possible in the “Free Fall Word Scramble” challenge; the KIAs must learn to SCUBA and develop a non-verbal language to de-code – and defuse – an underwater bomb; and also endeavour to destroy a coffee truck more than ¾-kilometers away with a bowling ball cannon by determining the angle of the barrel, power, and distance. Ka-boom. These are among the smart, spectacular and mind-bending challenges put to 10 of the country’s most passionate experimenters, super-geeks, and jacks-of-all-trades in their quest for the top.

But the race won’t be easy. The tests demand multi-layered problem-solving, independent thought and, (grudgingly), teamwork. Under the eye of host Daniel Fathers (‘The Transporter’, “Heartland”), they compete with – and against – each other in challenges designed to prove which one of them knows the most about a lot of different stuff: how things are engineered, driven, built, powered, and even blown up. Every episode contains several complex and highly-entertaining group and individual tasks. The competitor with the fewest points after each episode’s final elimination challenge leaves the series.

Coming from a wide range of professions, experiences, and educational backgrounds, the competitors think they’re as smart as these challenges. And each is vying to prove that their “know-it-all” moniker is actually justified. It’s street smarts vs. book-smarts; common sense vs. theory; Ego vs. Id.  Meet this season’s “know-it-alls”:

• Bill Robinson, age 65, from Madeira Park, British Columbia
• Carla Davidson, age 36, from Calgary, Alberta
• Ben Eadie, age 40, from Calgary, Alberta
• Scott Gravelle, age 40, from Calgary, Alberta
• Owen Garratt, age 44, from Spruce Grove, Alberta
• Abraham (Abe) Qamminiq, age 51, from Hall Beach, Nunavut
• Andrew Rader, age 32, from Cambridge, Ontario
• Laura Suen, age 23, from Mississauga, Ontario
• Doug Hicton, age 52, Toronto, Ontario
• Beth Furlong, age 27, from Pickering, Ontario

To view the complete release – Know-It-All bios, photography, and episode descriptions – go to bellmediapr.ca/discovery.

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Silver Spring, U.S.A. — Have no fear, bacon is here. With Americans gobbling up more than 1.7 billion pounds of bacon each year, Destination America brings bacon buffs what they crave with an all-new series, “United States of Bacon.” Each episode features our hog-wild host, Chef Todd Fisher, as he road trips to cities across America in search of the most mouth-watering, stomach-growl-inducing, sensory-overloading bacon creations kitchens have to offer.

While more than half of all U.S. homes (53%) keep bacon in their fridge at all times, no longer are the sizzling strips being relegated to the sidelines as a simple breakfast side dish. As Chef Todd discovers, bacon has become a beloved fixture of American cuisine for any meal of day and the “secret sauce” for recipes of all kinds, popping up on menus as the crown jewel of traditional dishes and in avant-garde pairings with ice cream, jam, and cocktails. The 12-episode first season of “United States of Bacon” premieres Sunday, December 30 at 10 & 10:30 PM E/P. If only television screens were scratch and sniff.

“From thick cut and juicy to thin and crispy, this series covers every form of bacon under the sun,” said Marc Etkind, SVP of Content Strategy for Destination America. “It’s no wonder bacon is in high demand – just watching “United States of Bacon” induces hunger pangs of epic proportions – but whether or not Americans feel the effects of an ‘aporkalypse’ bacon shortage, it certainly won’t be in short supply on Destination America.”

After the break-out bacon special in summer 2012′s three-part series “United States of Food” earned phenomenal ratings for the network, Chef Todd continued his road trip across America in search of bacon dishes that have diners squealing with delight.

In the premiere episode at 10 PM E/P, he visits Milwaukee, a city built on meat. His first stop is to homegrown hangout AJ Bombers for the Barrie Burger, an outrageous chunky peanut butter bacon cheeseburger that’s as savory as it is sweet. Then Todd swings by Saloon on Calhoun, a local bar with a bacon love so deep that they host a daily bacon happy hour featuring bacon-wrapped pork “wings” made from juicy tenderloin.

In Kenosha, Todd visits Frank’s Diner, the oldest continuously operating railcar restaurant in America, for a monstrous and meaty Garbage Platter exploding with eggs, hash browns, veggies, five different cheeses, and five kinds of meat. His final stop is the Comet Café, a small venue whose bacon-wrapped meatloaf sandwich and bacon cheddar apple pie have patrons begging for more.

Then at 10:30 PM, he continues his journey to Chicago, home to one of the country’s biggest bacon festivals. His first stop is Gino’s, where he feasts his eyes on a mammoth deep-dish pizza overflowing with meat and, of course, tons of bacon. Next, Todd chomps down on a massive triple-decker BLT at the 140-year-old Green Door Tavern.

Finally, he pulls up to Morrie O’Malley’s, a favorite pre-game stop among White Sox fans, for a classic Chicago dog. But up his sleeve, Todd’s got the makings of an innovative new bacon dish: the B-L-Turtle Burger. Other episodes have Todd making pit stops in Des Moines, Seattle, the Bay Area, Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, and Portland, Oregon.

Viewers can also curb their bacon cravings by visiting BaconFreak.com, which has partnered with Destination America to provide even more “United States of Bacon” content.

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New York, U.S.A. — TLC and Discovery Fit & Health is breaking down life as a royal in the new special “William and Kate: A Royal Baby Story” Sunday, December 16 at 8 PM ET/PT. From royal experts to historians, TLC delivers all the facts about what life will be like for the most famous unborn child in the world.

With the Duke and Duchess expecting their first child, many questions are arising about what it takes to raise a child in a monarch. In “William and Kate: A Royal Baby Story,” royal experts, insiders and historians will look back at the childhoods of Queen Elizabeth II, her children and grandchildren and offer their views on who William and Kate will look to for guidance while raising their first child.

From what Kate will wear while she is pregnant to who will babysit during those long business trips –  nannies, fashion experts and commentators will tackle these questions and more. While William and Kate have successfully defined themselves as modern royals, how they will balance tradition with contemporary expectations, private life with public demands, family values with national duty are obstacles most new parents don’t face.

Get an inside look at life as a royal baby and parent in “William and Kate: A Royal Baby Story” airing on TLC and Discovery Fit & Health on Sunday, December 16 at 8 PM ET/PT.

In addition to the new special, “William and Kate: A Royal Baby Story,” Discovery Fit & Health will be airing multiple specials focusing on the royal family beginning Sunday, December 16 at 7 PM ET/PT.

“William & Kate: One Year Later” – Premieres December 16 at 7 PM ET/PT William & Kate: One Year Later charts the lives of the Royal couple during their first year of marriage, exploring their Royal engagements and private moments that have kept Britain and the world enthralled.

William & Kate: A Royal Baby Story” – Premieres December 16 at 8 PM ET/PT With news that William & Kate are expecting their first child, royal baby fever is sweeping the nation.  Get an inside look at what life will be like for the most famous unborn child in the world.

“Royally Astounding: 30 Defining Days of the Monarchy” – Premieres December 16 at 9 PM ET/PT This compelling documentary recounts the 30 most defining days in the life of the British royal family over the last 30 years.

“My Mother Diana (Network Premiere)” – Premieres December 16 at 10 PM ET/PT My Mother Diana looks at how Diana’s life and her relationship with the House of Windsor, the media and the public have shaped her eldest son, Prince William.

Image Courtesy : Featureflash / Shutterstock.com

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TLC steps up to the plate with a new six-part docu-series sharing the lives of professional baseball’s most loveable bad boy, the All-Time Hit King, Pete Rose and his new fiancée, former Playboy model Kiana Kim. “Pete Rose: Hits & Mrs.” premieres Monday, January 14 at 10 PM ET/PT and follows Pete and Kiana as they blend their respective families and prepare for a new life together.

Pete and Kiana are happily engaged-but as with many couples, the road to a wedding isn’t always smooth. This new modern family will experience all of the challenges other families face-and much more. Much younger than her soon to be husband, Kiana is a vivacious mother of two beautiful kids from a previous marriage, Cassie (14) and Ashton (11).

This will be Pete’s third go-around raising kids, as he brings four older children of his own into the mix-some of whom have reservations about Kiana’s age and their upcoming nuptials. Together they will face the added challenge of determining where to lay down roots. With Pete living and working in Las Vegas, and Kiana and her two kids residing in Los Angeles, can they manage a long distance relationship under separate roofs in different cities?

Pete’s legendary history with baseball further complicates their lives. Kiana and her family know very little about that part of his past and his side of the story behind the public problems he continues to face.  Pete shares more about his rise to fame in – and infamous banning from – the sport he loves, lives and breathes. With the support of Kiana and her kids, his family and legions of diehard fans, Pete considers appealing to the commissioner again on reinstatement. “Pete Rose: Hits & Mrs.” takes viewers along for the ride as he attempts to bring his new family together, celebrate his extraordinary career and live the life he’s always wanted to have.

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Discovery Channel and NHK have joined forces to undertake the most ambitious search ever mounted to find the greatest mystery of the deep, the giant squid. With razor-toothed suckers and eyes the size of dinner plates, tales of the creature have been around since ancient times.

The Norse legend of the sea monster the Kraken and the Scylla from Greek mythology might have derived from the giant squid. This massive predator has always been shrouded in secrecy, and every attempt to capture a live giant squid on camera in its natural habitat, considered by many to be the Holy Grail of natural history filmmaking, has failed. Until now.

Mankind finally confronts the creature of the deep as the first ever footage of the giant squid where it lives is revealed in Discovery Channel’s “Monster Squid: The Giant is Real” which premieres on January 27, 2013 at 8 PM ET/PT as the season finale of “Curiosity.” NHK will air their special on the first ever footage of the giant squid in early January 2013.

“When Discovery does natural history it sets the bar high, and this ground breaking project features the very first ever footage of a live giant squid in its natural habitat. Our crew came face-to-face with the giant squid, and it’s the ideal season finale for our “Curiosity” series that stirs the imagination of our audience, bravely asking questions and fearlessly seeking answers. This latest production, four years in the making, is a world-first achievement for television, and I’m excited to share it,” said Eileen O’Neill, Group President of Discovery and TLC Networks.

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Los Angeles, U.S.A. — On December 12, Discovery Channel announced its order to production of the network’s first-ever, scripted mini-series titled “Klondike” (wt). The mini-series, based on Charlotte Gray’s novel Gold Diggers: Striking It Rich in the Klondike, brings to life the tale about six strangers and their collective fight for survival and wealth in a small, frontier town in the remote Klondike.

“Klondike” is a co-production between Discovery, Entertainment One Television (eOne) and Nomadic Pictures in association with Scott Free Television. Paul Scheuring (“Prison Break,” “A Man Apart”) is the primary writer and will serve as Executive Producer, along with Ridley Scott and David W. Zucker; as well as John Morayniss and Michael Rosenberg for eOne; Mike Frislev and Chad Oakes will serve as co-producers for Nomadic. Josh Goldin & Rachel Abramowitz are also writing episodes as Consulting Producers. Eileen O’Neill and Dolores Gavin will serve as Executive Producers for Discovery.

“We’ve been developing scripted for some time, but wanted to find the perfect fit. When we read Gold Diggers, we knew we finally found it,” said Eileen O’Neill, Group President of Discovery and TLC Networks, “Discovery created and owns the ‘gold’ narrative with several of our hit series and we’re elated to partner with Scott Free Television and eOne Television on a subject we know so well as our first, scripted project.”

‘”Klondike”was the last great gold rush; one which triggered a flood of prospectors ill-equipped, emotionally or otherwise, for the extreme and grueling conditions of the remote Yukon wilderness,’ said Ridley Scott, ” The personal adventures are as epic as the landscape, where ambition, greed, sex and murder, as well as their extraordinary efforts to literally strike it rich, are all chronicled by a young Jack London himself.”

“eOne is delighted to be working with Discovery as they make their foray into scripted television as well as join forces for the first time ever with Scott Free and continue our relationship with Nomadic Pictures,” said John Morayniss, CEO, eOne Television. “We’re looking forward to sharing this innovative adaptation of a well-known era, and sharing this epic mini-series with audiences around the world.”

“Klondike” follows the lives of two childhood best friends, Bill and Epstein, in the late 1890s as they undertake the next, gold rush capital in the untamed Yukon Territory. This man-versus-nature tale places our heroes in a land full of undiscovered wealth, but ravaged by harsh conditions, unpredictable weather and desperate, dangerous characters including greedy businessmen, seductive courtesans and native tribes witnessing the destruction of their people and land by opportunistic entrepreneurs.

Production begins in March 2013 on location in Alberta, Canada.  The series will be produced with assistance of the Government of Alberta, Alberta Film Development Program. International distribution will be handled by eOne Television.

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St. Louis, U.S.A. — George Noory, nationally syndicated radio host of Coast to Coast AM, premieres his new online TV show, Beyond Belief with George Noory, on December 14. The show promises to explore the unknown, unseen and mysteries of the universe, as well as controversial topics like UFO discovery, paranormal activities, conspiracies and the unexplained.

“This is a great opportunity to expose new listeners to my vast radio show and to also give my listeners an opportunity to experience provocative films, documentaries and original interviews on Gaiam TV,” shares Noory, adding, “You can never have too much information and I’m delighted to present it in this format. This TV show was a logical progression from my national radio show. It was something I’ve always wanted to do.”

For nearly 10 years, Noory has captivated listeners across the globe and is heard on more than 560 radio stations in the U.S., Canada, Guam and Mexico. Beyond Belief with George Noory offers viewers lively discussions of paranormal phenomena, time travel, alien activities, conspiracies and all things curious and unexplained.

“We are thrilled to add Beyond Belief  with George Noory to our growing roster of original programming. With the popularity of streaming video and the growing demand for paranormal and metaphysical programming, this program will engage our subscriber base eager to explore the alternative and controversial topics that Noory bravely investigates in his compelling interviews,” said Patricia Karpas, Gaiam TV Digital Strategy Officer.

To watch Beyond Belief with George Noory, subscribe to the channel here www.GaiamTV.com/George. The first 10 days will be free to new subscribers who will have the exclusive opportunity to see sneak peeks of the first show before it officially premiere’s on December 14.

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Los Angeles, U.S.A. —  VH1′s hit series ”Mob Wives“ is back Sunday, January 6, 2013 (8:00 PM ET/ PT), and Season 3 finds fan favorites Renee , Karen , Drita, Carla, ” Big Ang,” and Ramona struggling to maintain their hard-won independence – but the mob drama continues to pull them back in. Yet when Hurricane Sandy devastates Staten Island, the women survive the aftermath using their strength and street smarts – and show just how much heart they have as they work to rebuild their hometown, lending a helping hand to their family, friends, neighbors and community.

Viewers will also be introduced to a new cast member, Love Majewski. A hot-tempered “mob moll” with a notorious past, Love is back in town to reconnect with old friends – but  quickly finds that jealousy is in the air, as are brand new Staten Island scuffles.

Season 3 picks up with the women trying to move on in several different ways. In the wake of ex-husband Junior’s betrayal, Renee battles an ongoing secret which proves to be too much for her to handle alone. Big Ang copes with the fallout from her son’s drug rehabilitation and final sentencing, and Drita learns that her husband Lee is going to be released from jail and is forced to consider her options and the consequences they will have on her life.

Much to Carla’s amazement, things continue to heat up between (her still husband) Joe and his much younger girlfriend. As Karen continues to build her entrepreneurial empire, she learns some startling news about her boyfriend Dave that jeopardizes their long-standing love connection. And with Ramona’s boyfriend Joe still stuck behind bars and awaiting sentencing, Ramona receives an offer she may never be able to refuse.

As “godmother” to the group, Big Ang’s peace-making skills are put through the wringer as the battles between the women continue to divide and multiply. Drita and Ramona are unexpectedly brought to the table and pressed to settle their scores. When Renee and Carla go to war, it leaves everyone stunned and their twenty-year friendship in tatters.

“Mob Wives” season 3 brings the gangster drama back on a whole new level – just as old feuds are put to rest, new conflicts arise as names and accusations come out – testing the bounds of friendship, family and loyalty.

For additional information about “Mob Wives,” visit the official VH1 “Mob Wives” site at MobWives.vh1.com.

Viewers can also find series updates on Facebook and on Twitter @VH1 with the hashtag #MobWives.

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Beverly Hills, U.S.A. — TV’s most superbly dysfunctional family, the Bluths, are returning next year for an all new season of “Arrested Development,” entertaining, if not exactly edifying, Netflix members in Canada.

“Arrested Development” centers around Michael Bluth (Jason Bateman) and his eccentric family comprised of his son George Michael (Michael Cera), his father George Bluth Sr. (Jeffrey Tambor), his mother Lucille (Jessica Walter), his brothers George Oscar Bluth II (Will Arnett), Buster Bluth (Tony Hale) and sister Lindsay Funke (Portia de Rossi), and Lindsay’s husband Tobias (David Cross) and their daughter Maeby (Alia Shawkat).

Netflix members in Canada can catch up with their adventures anytime by watching the first three seasons of the critically-acclaimed Fox show, which went off air in 2006 and are available exclusively on Netflix.

Since launching in Canada in September of 2010, Netflix has continued to increase the scope and quality of content available to its members. In recent months additions have included TV series like the supernatural drama “The Vampire Diaries;” mystery thriller “Pretty Little Liars;” comedy “Community” and Judd Apatow’s cult favorite “Freaks & Geeks;” as well as features like global blockbuster smash ‘The Hunger Games’ (starting on December 31); Aaron Sorkin’s ‘The Social Network;’ ‘We Bought a Zoo’ with Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson, and the Academy Award winning ‘The Descendants’ with George Clooney.

Netflix Canada has also continued to add great Canadian content, including hit family drama “La Galere;” comedy mockumentary “Trailer Park Boys;” acclaimed documentary ‘Amour Haine et Propagande’ as well as long-running series such as “Dragon’s Den” and “Being Erica.”

“With the excitement surrounding the return of “Arrested Development,” we are thrilled to premiere the new season of the show in Canada at the same time as we launch it in the US,” said Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer at Netflix. “Our Canadian members have welcomed us since our arrival and we are proud to be able to continue adding a great mix of Canadian, Hollywood and international shows and movies to our Canadian service.”

Mitch Hurwitz, Troy Miller, Ron Howard, Brian Grazer and Francie Calfo are executive producers on the upcoming fourth season of “Arrested Development,” and it is produced by Imagine TV and 20th Century Fox Television for Netflix

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Putting the boom back in boomtown, Discovery Channel’s new series “Ghost Town Gold” follows two modern day explorers, Brit Eaton and Scott Glaves, as they track down priceless treasures of the Old West. From 19th century denim jeans to Wild West weaponry, railroad relics to cowboy collectibles, Brit and Scott are always on the prowl to turn what looks like rusty junk into everybody’s favorite collectible – cash. “Ghost Town Gold” premiered on Discovery Channel Thursday, November 15 at 10 PM ET/PT.

Part history buffs, part pickers, Brit and Scott visit old ghost towns, abandoned mining camps and industrial graveyards in search of treasured ruins from the Wild West. Whether it’s diving into a well that once hid prohibition-era moonshine or digging through dusty debris at a dilapidated ranch, Brit and Scott’s passion for history and the thrill of the hunt, drive them to these old boom-then-bust towns where there’s an endless supply of relics to find, explore and hopefully sell.

Brit and Scott have each been collecting and selling western memorabilia for over a decade and combined have over 25 years of experience. Today, Brit’s warehouse in Durango, Colorado holds more than 1-million artifacts including thousand-dollar whiskey bottles, old west revolvers and one-of-a-kind hand forged branding irons, to name a few.

The demand for these iconic items that capture the true spirit of the Old West is insatiable and every object featured in “Ghost Town Gold” has its own unique story to tell. Following Discovery Channel’s premiere of “Ghost Town Gold” on Thursday, November 15 at 10 PM ET/PT, an encore airing of the series will premiere on Destination America beginning Tuesday, January 1 at 10 PM ET/PT.

“Ghost Town Gold”  is produced by JWM Productions for Destination America. For JWM, Bill Morgan and Jason Williams are executive producers. Brit Eaton is an executive producer and Pamela Deutsch is executive producer for Discovery Channel and Destination America.

Image Courtesy : Discovery Channel

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Los Angeles, U.S.A. — Hurricane Sandy is one of the most treacherous weather events to hit the United States – affecting millions by floods, fires, blackouts and mass evacuations. But how did Sandy become such a powerful storm? Were there any better predictors that could have given us more warning? And what lessons have we learned?

“Megastorm,” airing Sunday, November 18 at 9 PM E/P on Discovery Channel’s “Curiosity” series in the US and then across Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America, follows the action hour-by-hour from the hurricane’s formation in the Caribbean through its intensification in Cuba to the devastation across the East Coast. Using on-the-ground expert analysis and CGI and satellite imaging, “Curiosity” explores how distinct phenomena combined to create the perfect storm and how we can prepare for the next one.

The episode also takes viewers inside the storm with footage captured by those on the ground using their own cameras and smartphones. Survivors share their stories, some narrowly escaping with their lives, and recount what it was like as Sandy engulfed their city.

“Curiosity”, now in its second season on Discovery Channel, brings the ‘I wonder?’ moment to television with a unique array of provocative subjects.

“Megastorm” is produced by Darlow Smithson Productions for Discovery Channel. “Curiosity” is overseen by Vice President, Development and Production Howard Swartz and Senior Vice President, Development and Production Simon Andreae. To learn more, go to dicovery.com, or follow discovery on Facebook and on Twitter @Discovery.

Image Courtesy : Sam Aronov / Shutterstock.com

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The Rolling Stones, the rock ‘n’ roll icons who have defined creativity, daring and durability, are chronicled in a kaleidoscopic new film that will debut Thursday, Novembr 15 (9:00-10:45 p.m. ET/PT) on HBO. The film documents the key periods in their career and their incredible adventures.

‘Crossfire Hurricane’, directed by Academy Award nominee Brett Morgen (HBO’s ‘The Kid Stays in the Picture’), provides a remarkable new perspective on the Stones’ unparalleled journey from blues-obsessed teenagers in the early ‘60s to rock royalty. It’s all here in panoramic candor, from the Marquee Club to Hyde Park, from Altamont to “Exile,” from club gigs to stadium extravaganzas.

For ‘Crossfire Hurricane’, the filmmakers amassed a library of more than 1000 hours of film and 500 hours of audio by gaining access to outtakes from nearly all of the Stones documentary films. With never-before-seen footage, most notably from “Gimme Shelter” and “Cocksucker Blues,” and fresh insights from the band members themselves, the film will delight, shock andamaze longtime devotees, as well as more recent fans, with its uniquely immersive style and tone. Drawing on more than 80 hours of new interviews with the band, the film marks the most extensive participation by the Stones in a documentary ever.

‘Crossfire Hurricane’ features previously unheard versions of such Stones classics as “Tumbling Dice,” “No Expectations,” “She’s a Rainbow,” “Prodigal Son” and many more. Rare live performances of “Satisfaction,” “I Just Want to Make Love to You” and “It’s Allright” fill out the soundtrack.

‘Crossfire Hurricane’ places the viewer right on the front line of the band’s most legendary escapades. Taking its title from a lyric in “Jumping Jack Flash,” ‘Crossfire Hurricane’ gives the audience an intimate insight, for the first time, into exactly what it was like to be part of the Rolling Stones as they overcame denunciation, drugs, dissension and death to become the definitive survivors. It’s the backstage pass to outdo them all.

The film illustrates the Stones’ evolution from being, as Mick Jagger vividly describes it, “the band everybody hated to the band everybody loves,” through the hedonistic 1970s and Keith Richards’ turning-point bust in Canada, to the spectacular touring phenomenon of today. Richards also reveals the song that he believes defines the “essence” of his writing relationship with Jagger more than any other.

Asked in a formative interview in the film what it is that sets them apart from other groups, Jagger says with quiet understatement, “A chemical reaction seems to have happened.” Richards adds, “You can’t really stop the Rolling Stones, you know when that sort of avalanche is facing you, you just get out of the way.” It’s been happening ever since, and the life and times of the Rolling Stones have never been as electrifyingly portrayed as they are in ‘Crossfire Hurricane’.

The odyssey includes film from the Stones’ initial road trips and first controversies as they became the anti-Beatles, the group despised by authority because they connected and communicated with their own generation as no oneelse ever had. “When we got together,” says Bill Wyman, “something magical happened, and no one could ever copy that.”

Director Brett Morgen adds, “‘Crossfire Hurricane’ invites the audience to experience firsthand the Stones’ nearly mythical journey from outsiders to rock and roll royalty. This is not an academic history lesson. ‘Crossfire Hurricane’ allows the viewer to experience the Stones’ journey from a unique vantage point. It’s an aural and visual roller coaster ride.”

From the outset of the film, viewers know they’re in for a white-knuckle ride. No sooner had the early Stones lineup first played live under that name in thesummer of 1962 than they were bigger than the venues that tried to hold them. Wyman remembers how the crowds were soon inspiring manic behaviour, especially among screaming girls, whose uncontrollable excitement was obvious as stardom beckoned for the band already earmarked as the bad guys with press headlines like “Would you let your daughter marry a Rolling Stone?”

Riots and the chaos of early tours are graphically depicted, as is the birth of the Mick Jagger-Keith Richards songwriting partnership. The many dramas they encountered are also fully addressed, including the Redlands drug bust, thedescent of Brian Jones into what Richards calls “bye-bye land,” and the terror and disillusionment of 1969’s Altamont Festival.

The band’s rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle is also discussed with extraordinary forthrightness, including the time of their seminal 1972 album ‘Exile on Main St.’, which topped the British charts both then and 38 years later in its deluxe reissue. Their very survival repeatedly under threat, the Stones survived with a backs-to-the-wall spirit. “We may be going down,” says Keith, “but we’re not going down your way.”

As befits the first rock band to reach the 50-year milestone with their globalstature now greater than ever, the film combines extensive historical footage, much of it widely unseen, with contemporary commentaries by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Ronnie Wood and former Stones Bill Wyman and Mick Taylor. Period interviews, extensive live performance material and news archive give the production a truly kinetic aura and no-holds-barred approach. ‘Crossfire Hurricane’ has taken over a year to make and produce with the fullcooperation of the Rolling Stones.

Image Courtesy : Cinemafestival / Shutterstock.com

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From the groundbreaking TV series “Your Show of Shows” to landmark films like ‘Blazing Saddles’ and ‘Young Frankenstein’, Mel Brooks has been one of the most influential voices in comedy. Now, this entertainment legend looks back on his remarkable career in “Mel Brooks Strikes Back!,” debuting Monday, December 10 (9:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT), exclusively on HBO.

Appearing onstage with Alan Yentob, creative director for the BBC, at the Geffen Theater in Westwood, Cal. before a live audience, Brooks reviews his career as a writer, director, actor, producer, composer, failed ballet dancer and comedian. The special looks at the Brooklyn native’s early life, show-business influences, early career and ascension as one of Hollywood’s most successful writers and directors.

“Mel Brooks Strikes Back!” also features clips from some of his classic movies and TV work, including “Your Show of Shows,” featuring Sid Caesar and Carl Reiner, one of Brooks and Reiner’s “2000 Year Old Man” routines and the movies ‘The Producers’, ‘Blazing Saddles’ and ‘High Anxiety’. Brooks also takes questions from the audience, discussing his experiences in World War II and the origins of the song “Retreat,” which he performs in a clip with longtime collaborator Ronny Graham.

“Mel Brooks Strikes Back!” marks his second appearance on HBO in recent years, following 2011’s Emmy-nominated special “Mel Brooks and Dick Cavett Together Again.”

Among Brooks’ other classic comedy films as director, writer, producer and/or actor are ‘History of the World Part 1’, ‘Silent Movie’, ‘Spaceballs’ and ‘Robin Hood: Men in Tights’. ‘Blazing Saddles’, ‘The Producers’ and ‘Young Frankenstein’ all appear on the AFI’s list of Funniest American Films. He also produced the Oscar-nominated drama ‘The Elephant Man’, as well as ‘My Favorite Year’ and ‘The Fly’, among other Brooksfilms movies, and co-created, with Buck Henry, the hit TV series “Get Smart.”

Mel Brooks is one of the few artists who have received an Oscar, a Grammy, an Emmy and a Tony. He won an Oscar for writing the 1968 film ‘The Producers’, a Grammy for Best Spoken Comedy Album in 1999 for “The 2000 Year Old Man in the Year 2000” and two other Grammys in 2002, for Best Musical Show Album for the Soundtrack of ‘The Producers’ and Best Long Form Music Video for the DVD “Recording the Producers – A Musical Romp with Mel Brooks.” Brooks has won four Emmys, one for Outstanding Writing Achievement for a Sid Caesar special and three consecutive awards for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for “Mad About You.” He won three Tony Awards for the 2001 musical “The Producers,” for Best Musical, Best Original Musical Score and Best Book of a Musical. Overall, the show received 12 Tony Awards, a record for a musical.

On November 13, the DVD/CD box set ‘The Incredible Mel Brooks: An Irresistible Collection of Unhinged Comedy’ will be released by Shout! Factory. The set is a veritable treasure trove of all things Brooksian, a laugh-filled celebration of his illustrious career that includes special tributes, memorable performances and rare archival TV footage.

“Mel Brooks Strikes Back!” is a Brooksfilms Production; produced by Steve Haberman and Rudy DeLuca.

Image Courtesy : Featureflash / Shutterstock.com

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