A funny thing happened to comedian Tom Papa as he prepared to promote his hysterical new stand-up special, Home Free — Jerry Seinfeld stopped by Papa’s Breaking Bread podcast. “We were just planning on talking about comedy in general,” Papa told me. “You know, just catching up with old friends.”
It was the pod in which Seinfeld walked back earlier comments about the Left killing comedy, landing Papa directly in the middle of a national conversation. As Home Free premieres today on Netflix, we discussed what happens when Seinfeld weighs in on comedy culture, the time Tom Cruise got him all sweaty before his first Letterman appearance and how the podcast revolution has put comedians right back where they started.
“The cool thing about Jerry Seinfeld is he’s not afraid to go back on things. He’s not set in stone on stuff.”
“It is pretty amazing how certain...
It was the pod in which Seinfeld walked back earlier comments about the Left killing comedy, landing Papa directly in the middle of a national conversation. As Home Free premieres today on Netflix, we discussed what happens when Seinfeld weighs in on comedy culture, the time Tom Cruise got him all sweaty before his first Letterman appearance and how the podcast revolution has put comedians right back where they started.
“The cool thing about Jerry Seinfeld is he’s not afraid to go back on things. He’s not set in stone on stuff.”
“It is pretty amazing how certain...
- 10/29/2024
- Cracked
It’s part of TV comedy history that Joe Rogan replaced an actor named Greg Lee in the sitcom NewsRadio, making Rogan a household name and setting the stage for Fear Factor and eventual world domination. It would be easy to point an angry finger at Lee, who actually starred in the NewsRadio pilot, for not holding onto the job that would give Rogan a fame foothold. But there was a third comic actor who was cast before Lee. And if Ray Romano could have done a better job of impressing producers, we’d live in a very different timeline.
Yep, it was the future Everybody Loves Raymond star who was first cast as the electrician on NewsRadio. Romano auditioned and got the part in 1994 — only to get fired two days into rehearsals.
What was the problem? Producers felt like Romano’s sleepy line delivery was slowing down the show’s rapid-fire comic pace.
Yep, it was the future Everybody Loves Raymond star who was first cast as the electrician on NewsRadio. Romano auditioned and got the part in 1994 — only to get fired two days into rehearsals.
What was the problem? Producers felt like Romano’s sleepy line delivery was slowing down the show’s rapid-fire comic pace.
- 8/12/2024
- Cracked
Tom Johnson, who received two Emmy Awards for his writing on The Daily Show, has died. He was 55.
Johnson died “peacefully and unexpectedly” at his Los Angeles home on Jan. 14 of a cardiac issue, his wife, actress Rozie Bacchi, told The Hollywood Reporter.
“He never got to eat the Texas toast he was making, or the 4 lbs. of crab legs he found on sale and crammed in the freezer two nights prior,” she said in a statement.
“Tom had such a big heart and cared deeply about taking care of others. His work ethic was impeccable. He was fair, kind, talented, inclusive and funny as hell.”
Born on July 25, 1968, in Fairfax, Virginia, Johnson began his career after college and founded the Network Comedy Troupe. He also toured as a comedian and performed at venues across the country and on television.
Johnson was initially hired in 1996 as a writer on Comedy Central...
Johnson died “peacefully and unexpectedly” at his Los Angeles home on Jan. 14 of a cardiac issue, his wife, actress Rozie Bacchi, told The Hollywood Reporter.
“He never got to eat the Texas toast he was making, or the 4 lbs. of crab legs he found on sale and crammed in the freezer two nights prior,” she said in a statement.
“Tom had such a big heart and cared deeply about taking care of others. His work ethic was impeccable. He was fair, kind, talented, inclusive and funny as hell.”
Born on July 25, 1968, in Fairfax, Virginia, Johnson began his career after college and founded the Network Comedy Troupe. He also toured as a comedian and performed at venues across the country and on television.
Johnson was initially hired in 1996 as a writer on Comedy Central...
- 1/28/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tom Johnson, who won two Emmy Awards for his comedy writing, died Jan.14 at his home in Los Angeles at 55. No cause of death has been established.
During his career, Johnson collaborated with comedic talent including Joan Rivers, Greg Giraldo, Jon Stewart, Marc Maron, Arsenio Hall, George Lopez, Snoop Dogg, Martha Stewart, Nikki Glaser, and Anthony Jeselnik, among others.
In 1996, Johnson was hired on the original staff of Comedy Central’s The Daily Show with host Craig Kilborn, and remained on staff when Jon Stewart assumed the role three years later.
Johnson wrote on more than 1,200 episodes and was one of the authors of the New York Times bestseller, America: The Book. Johnson won two Emmy Awards and two Peabody Awards for his work on The Daily Show, but is perhaps best known for appearing on camera as anonymous hacker “Lord Viper Scorpion,” who mercilessly destroyed Stewart’s online reputation...
During his career, Johnson collaborated with comedic talent including Joan Rivers, Greg Giraldo, Jon Stewart, Marc Maron, Arsenio Hall, George Lopez, Snoop Dogg, Martha Stewart, Nikki Glaser, and Anthony Jeselnik, among others.
In 1996, Johnson was hired on the original staff of Comedy Central’s The Daily Show with host Craig Kilborn, and remained on staff when Jon Stewart assumed the role three years later.
Johnson wrote on more than 1,200 episodes and was one of the authors of the New York Times bestseller, America: The Book. Johnson won two Emmy Awards and two Peabody Awards for his work on The Daily Show, but is perhaps best known for appearing on camera as anonymous hacker “Lord Viper Scorpion,” who mercilessly destroyed Stewart’s online reputation...
- 1/27/2024
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Tom Johnson, a writer and stand-up comic with credits including “The Daily Show” and “The Jeselnik Offensive,” has died at the age of 55.
In a statement Friday, his family said he died at his home “Peacefully and unexpectedly” on Jan. 14. No cause of death has been made public.
“Growing up,” the family wrote in their statement, Johnson “had an insatiable curiosity. He was talented in all of the arts: a gifted artist who could draw in vivid detail, played the guitar and trombone, and acted in plays throughout college at the University of Missouri. He loved the band Kiss and enjoyed dressing up like the lead singer for Halloween.”
“Tom had a huge heart and cared deeply about taking care of others. He launched the careers of countless successful comedians. His work ethic was impeccable. He was fair, kind, talented, inclusive, and funny as hell. He was a voracious reader,...
In a statement Friday, his family said he died at his home “Peacefully and unexpectedly” on Jan. 14. No cause of death has been made public.
“Growing up,” the family wrote in their statement, Johnson “had an insatiable curiosity. He was talented in all of the arts: a gifted artist who could draw in vivid detail, played the guitar and trombone, and acted in plays throughout college at the University of Missouri. He loved the band Kiss and enjoyed dressing up like the lead singer for Halloween.”
“Tom had a huge heart and cared deeply about taking care of others. He launched the careers of countless successful comedians. His work ethic was impeccable. He was fair, kind, talented, inclusive, and funny as hell. He was a voracious reader,...
- 1/27/2024
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
In the upcoming episode of “Dark Side of Comedy” Season 2, titled “Greg Giraldo-Extended Cut,” airing at 8:00 Pm on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, on Vice, the show delves into the multifaceted life and career of the beloved comedian Greg Giraldo. Known as a roastmaster, road warrior, and a father, the episode explores how Giraldo’s trajectory was hindered by a destructive combination of addiction and self-loathing.
The extended cut provides an in-depth look at the challenges Giraldo faced throughout his career, shedding light on the complexities that led to his struggles. The episode navigates the highs and lows of his life, offering viewers an unfiltered perspective on the impact of addiction on both his professional and personal spheres. Tune in to Vice at 8:00 Pm to witness the extended exploration of Greg Giraldo’s life in this episode of “Dark Side of Comedy.”
Release Date & Time: 8:00 Pm Tuesday 21 November 2023 on Vice...
The extended cut provides an in-depth look at the challenges Giraldo faced throughout his career, shedding light on the complexities that led to his struggles. The episode navigates the highs and lows of his life, offering viewers an unfiltered perspective on the impact of addiction on both his professional and personal spheres. Tune in to Vice at 8:00 Pm to witness the extended exploration of Greg Giraldo’s life in this episode of “Dark Side of Comedy.”
Release Date & Time: 8:00 Pm Tuesday 21 November 2023 on Vice...
- 11/14/2023
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
The comedy world has been blessed with countless brilliant individuals whose laughter and wit have brightened our lives. Tragically, some of the most gifted stand-ups and comic actors have been taken from us too soon. Their stories are a mixture of laughter, pain, and heartache, leaving indelible marks on the comedy world. In this blog post, we pay tribute to the comedians who died young, exploring their lives, personal struggles, and the legacies they left behind.
Related: The 10 Best Stand-Up Specials of All Time (Ranked Best to Worst)
Short Summary Lenny Bruce, John Belushi, Chris Farley, Bernie Mac, Patrice O’Neal, and Mitch Hedberg all left legacy of courageous comedy. Bill Hicks and Andy Kaufman revolutionized the art of comedy with their boundary-pushing performances. Kevin Barnett, Jak Knight & Nick Nemeroff tragically passed too soon. Greg Giraldo & Freddie Prinze lost to addiction, a heartbreaking reminder that rising stars can be gone instantly.
Related: The 10 Best Stand-Up Specials of All Time (Ranked Best to Worst)
Short Summary Lenny Bruce, John Belushi, Chris Farley, Bernie Mac, Patrice O’Neal, and Mitch Hedberg all left legacy of courageous comedy. Bill Hicks and Andy Kaufman revolutionized the art of comedy with their boundary-pushing performances. Kevin Barnett, Jak Knight & Nick Nemeroff tragically passed too soon. Greg Giraldo & Freddie Prinze lost to addiction, a heartbreaking reminder that rising stars can be gone instantly.
- 5/28/2023
- by Buddy TV
- buddytv.com
Vice TV is adding another “Dark Side” series to its growing fan-favorite franchise with spinoff “Dark Side of Comedy,” Variety has learned exclusively.
The cabler describes the new show as “a fresh look at an art form that has long shined a light on significant cultural issues, and the artists who have managed to create light in times of darkness.”
Joining a “Dark Side” lineup that currently includes “Dark Side of the Ring,” “Dark Side of Football” and “Dark Side of the ’90s,” “Dark Side of Comedy” is a series that “examines the internal battles, unexpected fame and societal pressures that are ever-present in the comedy world; as well as the lasting legacy of the women and men who allow us to see the world through their eyes.”
The first season of the show, which is narrated by Dave Foley, will consist of 10 episodes focused on these comics: Andrew Dice Clay,...
The cabler describes the new show as “a fresh look at an art form that has long shined a light on significant cultural issues, and the artists who have managed to create light in times of darkness.”
Joining a “Dark Side” lineup that currently includes “Dark Side of the Ring,” “Dark Side of Football” and “Dark Side of the ’90s,” “Dark Side of Comedy” is a series that “examines the internal battles, unexpected fame and societal pressures that are ever-present in the comedy world; as well as the lasting legacy of the women and men who allow us to see the world through their eyes.”
The first season of the show, which is narrated by Dave Foley, will consist of 10 episodes focused on these comics: Andrew Dice Clay,...
- 7/5/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Tonight, The Roast of Justin Bieber will air on Comedy Central and the masses will get what they’ve long been waiting for: a public shaming of Justin Bieber. Of course, some of the special’s most notable put-downs of the pop star have been publicized, including insults from the likes of Roast master Kevin Hart (“Justin’s Canadian. He’s actually considered American, because no Canadian has ever been this much of an asshole”), Shaquille O’Neal (“Last year you were ranked the fifth most hated person of all time. Kim Jong-un didn’t even score that low, and he uses your music to fuckin’ torture people”), and Jeffrey Ross (“You’ve become a cocky little shit. You are the King Joffrey of pop”).
While Bieber’s burns are definitely scorching, he’s hardly the only Roastee to get royally humiliated during their special. As we count down to The Roast of Justin Bieber,...
While Bieber’s burns are definitely scorching, he’s hardly the only Roastee to get royally humiliated during their special. As we count down to The Roast of Justin Bieber,...
- 3/30/2015
- by Aly Semigran
- VH1.com
Tonight, The Roast of Justin Bieber will air on Comedy Central and the masses will get what they’ve long been waiting for: a public shaming of Justin Bieber. Of course, some of the special’s most notable put-downs of the pop star have been publicized, including insults from the likes of Roast master Kevin Hart (“Justin’s Canadian. He’s actually considered American, because no Canadian has ever been this much of an asshole”), Shaquille O’Neal (“Last year you were ranked the fifth most hated person of all time. Kim Jong-un didn’t even score that low, and he uses your music to fuckin’ torture people”), and Jeffrey Ross (“You’ve become a cocky little shit. You are the King Joffrey of pop”).
While Bieber’s burns are definitely scorching, he’s hardly the only Roastee to get royally humiliated during their special. As we count down to The Roast of Justin Bieber,...
While Bieber’s burns are definitely scorching, he’s hardly the only Roastee to get royally humiliated during their special. As we count down to The Roast of Justin Bieber,...
- 3/30/2015
- by Aly Semigran
- TheFabLife - Movies
The torching of the pop star will tape in Los Angeles on a date to be revealed soon
In a comedian’s dream come true, the next “Comedy Central Roast” will feature Justin Bieber as the punching bag and headliner.
The cable channel’s hilarious president of Content Development & Original Programming, Kent Alterman, already fired the first shot: “Justin has been asking us for a few years to roast him, and we just kept telling him to go create more source material first,” he said. “We’re thrilled he listened.”
Also Read: 18 Comedians Who Died Too Soon – From John Pinette...
In a comedian’s dream come true, the next “Comedy Central Roast” will feature Justin Bieber as the punching bag and headliner.
The cable channel’s hilarious president of Content Development & Original Programming, Kent Alterman, already fired the first shot: “Justin has been asking us for a few years to roast him, and we just kept telling him to go create more source material first,” he said. “We’re thrilled he listened.”
Also Read: 18 Comedians Who Died Too Soon – From John Pinette...
- 1/20/2015
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
In 1998, Comedy Central began airing the annual roast from the New York Friars Club, and after 5 years Comedy Central launched its own celebrity roasts. Over the annual roast, Comedy Central has produced the roasts of several celebrities including Hugh Hefner, Pamela Anderson, Donald Trump, Charlie Sheen, David Hasselhoff and James Franco. The intention is for celebrities and comics alike to get together and make fun of each other for the entertainment of those watching. While some consider the tradition of roasting mean spirited and nasty, it’s also a great exercise at not letting the egos of celebrities to get too big, and making sure they have their feet on the ground.
While the tradition of Comedy Roasts has been going on since the 1920′s, where the tradition of roasting honoured members at the New York Friar’s Club and was eventually brought to mainstream public attention in the 1970′s...
While the tradition of Comedy Roasts has been going on since the 1920′s, where the tradition of roasting honoured members at the New York Friar’s Club and was eventually brought to mainstream public attention in the 1970′s...
- 10/28/2013
- by Edan Nissen
- Obsessed with Film
Comedy is social commentary. In a totalitarian regime, what’s the first thing to go? Comedy. Because comedy is, by its nature, subversive.
Susie Essman
Many comedians and fans alike, consider the comedy stage a sacred place, where the dark, offensive, sacrilegious and even stupid can and should remain uncensored.
But in the age of smart phones and YouTube, where something said on stage in front of a few hundred people can suddenly become national news, how do comedians continue taking the risks (and making the mistakes) that make live comedy so thrilling?
Moreover, is apologizing for your material, however dark or upsetting, the antithesis of being a comedian? Is it the comedian's job to go too far?
These are some of the ideas we're exploring in HuffPost Comedy's series, "Crossing the Line".
Through interviews with top comedians and writers, we're looking at how these bastions of free speech are necessary parts of our culture,...
Susie Essman
Many comedians and fans alike, consider the comedy stage a sacred place, where the dark, offensive, sacrilegious and even stupid can and should remain uncensored.
But in the age of smart phones and YouTube, where something said on stage in front of a few hundred people can suddenly become national news, how do comedians continue taking the risks (and making the mistakes) that make live comedy so thrilling?
Moreover, is apologizing for your material, however dark or upsetting, the antithesis of being a comedian? Is it the comedian's job to go too far?
These are some of the ideas we're exploring in HuffPost Comedy's series, "Crossing the Line".
Through interviews with top comedians and writers, we're looking at how these bastions of free speech are necessary parts of our culture,...
- 6/12/2012
- by The Huffington Post
- Huffington Post
Though 36-year-old standup Guy Branum is a familiar face in familiar formats for gay humor (panel talk shows like Chelsea Lately, fun ensembles comedies like No Strings Attached), he's a true anomaly in gay comedy: His professorial smarts, respect and knowledge of homo culture, and cutting, observational humor make him a fresh voice and an elder statesman. Case in point: His new web venture "The Factuary" combines droll commentary, pop culture awareness, and hard textbook knowledge in one compact clip. In the series' debut episode, he explains the Sri Lankan civil war by way of its preeminent celebrity voice, M.I.A.
We caught up with the Northern California native to discuss what's missing from TV nowadays, the problems with Ellen and Win a Date with Tad Hamilton, and the time he saw Ashton Kutcher naked in person. You can follow him on Twitter at @guybranum.
AfterElton: I love how...
We caught up with the Northern California native to discuss what's missing from TV nowadays, the problems with Ellen and Win a Date with Tad Hamilton, and the time he saw Ashton Kutcher naked in person. You can follow him on Twitter at @guybranum.
AfterElton: I love how...
- 5/7/2012
- by virtel
- The Backlot
The September 10 taping of the Charlie Sheen roast will be interesting. First, "Family Guy" creator and kick-ass crooner Seth MacFarlane hosts the event. MacFarlane was a high point of the David Hasselhoff roast which saw one of the last televised performances of the great, late (and missed) Greg Giraldo. Now, boxer-turned-reality TV star Mike Tyson, Jackass star and sober vegan and animal rights champion Steve-o and TMZ's Harvey Levin will all roast Charlie Sheen on Comedy Central's upcoming special. Also confirmed previously were comics Anthony Jeselnik and our favorite, veteran roaster Jeffrey Ross. Comedy Central Roast of Charlie Sheen airs Sept. 19 at 10 p.m. Et/Pt.
- 8/29/2011
- by April MacIntyre
- Monsters and Critics
Charlie Sheen is winning today as Comedy Central will fire up one of their naughty roasts and honor the Tiger blood warlock with odes of fealty and love. And by that I mean Lisa Lampinelli, Jeff Ross and the usual suspects will lay into the Goddess-less former CBS star over his weird descent from network to no work. These are the times I miss the late Greg Giraldo the most, he would have been the best roaster of the lot. The Roast Of Charlie Sheen. airs Monday, September 19 At 10:00 P.M. Et/Pt Comedy Central has secured one of Hollywood.s most notorious bad boys. The network announced today that Charlie Sheen will be the next Roastee. The .Comedy Central...
- 7/5/2011
- by April MacIntyre
- Monsters and Critics
Greg Giraldo had some pretty famous friends -- including Jeff Ross , Daniel Tosh and " Marriage Ref " host Tom Papa -- and last night, they all performed in L.A. to raise money for the late comic's kids. Papa -- who was pretty tight with Giraldo -- organized the "Big Time Comedy Show - A Giraldo Family Benefit." According to the Huffington Post, all of the show's proceeds went to Giraldo's wife Maryann Giraldo and their four children.
- 6/30/2011
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Give It Up For Greg Giraldo (Friday, 11:30/10:30c, Comedy Central)
Celebrity roasts just won't be same without him. In this affectionate tribute special profiling Greg Giraldo, the comedian who died last September at 44, Comedy Central celebrates one of its most familiar faces and voices, as comedy contemporaries including Conan O'Brien, Jon Stewart, Sarah Silverman and Colin Quinn remember a good friend and colleagues. Lots of clips from career highs — and a few lows (including the short-lived sitcom Common Law).
The Pee-Wee Herman Show on Broadway (Saturday, 10/9c, HBO)
The magic word is "Fun!" Feel free to scream along with the Broadway audience as...
Read More >...
Celebrity roasts just won't be same without him. In this affectionate tribute special profiling Greg Giraldo, the comedian who died last September at 44, Comedy Central celebrates one of its most familiar faces and voices, as comedy contemporaries including Conan O'Brien, Jon Stewart, Sarah Silverman and Colin Quinn remember a good friend and colleagues. Lots of clips from career highs — and a few lows (including the short-lived sitcom Common Law).
The Pee-Wee Herman Show on Broadway (Saturday, 10/9c, HBO)
The magic word is "Fun!" Feel free to scream along with the Broadway audience as...
Read More >...
- 3/17/2011
- by Matt Roush
- TVGuide - Breaking News
G’day Zoners! I don’t know about you, but I am still stuck in a post Ben & Jerry’s brain freeze of joy. Only Stephen could make chocolate coated potato chips and salty caramel swirl sound tasty. But I digress. In this week’s Six Degrees round-up; “Earth (The Audio Book)” receives more award nominations, Kristen Schaal features in a new “The National’s” film clip, Jimmy Fallon appears at The Paley Center, Allison Silverman appears on “This American Life”, and Conan O’Brien, Jon Stewart and Lewis Black are to be featured in Comedy Central’s tribute to the late Greg Giraldo.
The Daily Show
The Daily Show
“Earth (The AudioBook)” has been nominated for an Audie Award in the “Humour” Category.
John Oliver (Correspondant/Writer)
The second season of “John Oliver’s New York Stand-Up Show” premiere’s on Thursday, March 24th.John talks to the Houtson...
The Daily Show
The Daily Show
“Earth (The AudioBook)” has been nominated for an Audie Award in the “Humour” Category.
John Oliver (Correspondant/Writer)
The second season of “John Oliver’s New York Stand-Up Show” premiere’s on Thursday, March 24th.John talks to the Houtson...
- 3/12/2011
- by Katt
- No Fact Zone
"Give It Up For Greg Giraldo" Premieres Friday, March 18 at 11:30 p.m. Jon Stewart, Conan O.Brien, Sarah Silverman, Colin Quinn, Dave Attell, Lewis Black, Jim Gaffigan and Nick Swardson along with Comedy Central celebrate the life of a modern hero, a groundbreaking comedic voice and family member who is sorely missed in the World Premiere of .Give It Up For Greg Giraldo." Greg Giraldo was a never-ending source of smart, biting, relevant humor who gave some of the funniest moments in the network.s history. .Give It Up for Greg Giraldo. takes viewers through career highlights from Roasts, stand-up specials, pilots and numerous television and live appearances. Giraldo.s tragic passing has had an immeasurable impact on...
- 3/11/2011
- by April MacIntyre
- Monsters and Critics
Comedy Central's will tribute Greg Giraldo with a special featuring candid interviews with some of the late comedian's friends and comedy heavyweights, including Jon Stewart, Conan O’Brien, Sarah Silverman, Dennis Leary and more. The show, "Give It Up for Greg Giraldo," will premiere Friday, March 18 at 11:30 p.m. Giraldo, a former judge on "Last Comic Standing" and mainstay on Comedy Central's "Roast" series, died last year after an apparent overdose of prescription pills in a New Jersey Hotel room. He was just 44. Not surprisingly, the special, while featuring some of his...
- 3/11/2011
- by Dylan Stableford
- The Wrap
The rules for any roast demand that the roasters should have genuine affection for the roastee. You never rib someone you don’t like. But at the taping of The Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump last night in New York City (airing on Comedy Central on Tuesday March 15 at 10:30 pm Est) not all of the comedians on hand had love in their hearts for the Trumpster — including Lisa Lampanelli, who had established that roasting rule in the first place. “Well, I broke the rule because the money’s really good,” the Roast veteran jested to me on the red carpet.
- 3/10/2011
- by Christian Blauvelt
- EW.com - PopWatch
Conan O'Brien and Jon Stewart will appear in Comedy Central's tribute to the late comedian Greg Giraldo, who died last September at the age of 44. The televised special, Give It Up For Greg Giraldo, is to feature rare interview footage and clips from the stand-up comedian's career. Joining O'Brien and Stewart on the program to toast their late contemporary will be Sarah Silverman, (more)...
- 3/8/2011
- by By Justin Harp
- Digital Spy
Comedian and Last Comic Standing 7 finalist Mike DeStefano, who came in fourth on the show, died yesterday. His death marks the second from that season of the show; judge Greg Giraldo died last fall. AOL reported that he "died from a heart attack," and noted that his "recovery from heroin addiction fueled his no-holds-barred comedy"; he started using at 15 and at 30, "kicked his addiction and began working as a drug counselor. A...
- 3/7/2011
- by Andy Dehnart
- Reality Blurred
If you read M&C regularly, you know of my ongoing obsession with the genius that is Colin Quinn. So many current shows have taken cues from his fantastic and sorely missed "Tough Crowd" series from Comedy Central. The series featured Colin as moderator to a whip-smart panel of comedian who hashed over headlines, and gave opinion and argued the topics of the day. It featured the late great Greg Giraldo, and comics like Judy Gold, Denis Leary, Patrice O'Neal, Andy Dick, Jim Norton, Andy Kindler and so many more. Now HBO will bring comedian and actor Colin Quinn brings his smash one-man Broadway show to HBO when Colin Quinn: Long Story Short debuts Saturday, April 9 (10:00-11:30...
- 3/4/2011
- by April MacIntyre
- Monsters and Critics
G’day Zoners! I hope you’ve all had a good week, I’ve spent my final week of freedom before the new Uni year starts by relaxing and admiring Stephen’s new “Project Magazine” cover (so much less scary than the alternate version!!), and to help you all relax, I’ve got the latest round up of Six Degrees news. This week Jon Stewart, Lewis Black and John Legend add Grammy’s to their trophy cabinets, John Oliver has a special edition of his “New York Stand-Up Show”, Allison Silverman’s new series has been picked up for a second season, and Movits! and The Moutain Goats have a new albums on the way.
The Colbert Report
Allison Silverman (Former Head Writer & Executive Producer)
IFC has picked up “Portlandia” for a second season.
Rev. James Martin (Tcr Chaplin)
“An Evening with Rev. James Martin, Sj” in which the Rev.
The Colbert Report
Allison Silverman (Former Head Writer & Executive Producer)
IFC has picked up “Portlandia” for a second season.
Rev. James Martin (Tcr Chaplin)
“An Evening with Rev. James Martin, Sj” in which the Rev.
- 2/26/2011
- by Katt
- No Fact Zone
You never know what you’ll get when you watch the roast of a prominent celebrity. Which comedians and stars will lampoon the titular guest of honor? Who is the guest of honor? Those two variables make or break a roast, and more than a few roasts have flopped due to a lack of quality in one category or the other. Luckily for David Hasselhoff and the roast in his honor, the proceedings go off with plenty of laughs and no one is safe. The man has become a cultural icon for starring in lots of classically sub-par entertainment, using the last syllable of his name in other words, and being mocked pretty much everywhere except for Germany for his "stardom". The man’s career has begged for a roast since his first days on the small screen, and he’s only made himself more of a target with everything he’s done.
- 1/23/2011
- by Lex Walker
- JustPressPlay.net
The weekend’s here. You’ve just been paid, and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. What’s a pop culture geek to do? In hopes of steering you in the right direction to blow some of that hard-earned cash, it’s time for the Fred Weekend Shopping Guide - your spotlight on the things you didn’t even know you wanted…
(Please support Fred by using the links below to make any impulse purchases - it helps to keep us going…)
Louis Ck proves yet again why he’s one of the finest practitioners of stand-up today with Hilarious (Comedy Central, Not Rated, DVD-$16.99 Srp), a feature-length exploration of life after 40, newly-divorced with a pair of young daughters, in a world of increasing frustration. Get this disc. Get it now.
I love desktop gadgets, if only because they provide a welcome - and inherently evil - distraction...
(Please support Fred by using the links below to make any impulse purchases - it helps to keep us going…)
Louis Ck proves yet again why he’s one of the finest practitioners of stand-up today with Hilarious (Comedy Central, Not Rated, DVD-$16.99 Srp), a feature-length exploration of life after 40, newly-divorced with a pair of young daughters, in a world of increasing frustration. Get this disc. Get it now.
I love desktop gadgets, if only because they provide a welcome - and inherently evil - distraction...
- 1/14/2011
- by UncaScroogeMcD
Comedy Central and Monsters and Critics have an uncensored .Roast of David Hasselhoff. giveaway for those who didn.t get enough the first time around! The roast of the Hoff features Roast Master Seth MacFarlane And Roasters Pamela Anderson, Whitney Cummings, Greg Giraldo, Gilbert Gottfried, George Hamilton, Hulk Hogan And Lisa Lampanelli, among others. Roaster Jeffrey Ross quips, "The Hoff once blew into a breathalyzer and the breathalyzer said, 'Whoa, whoa.one at a time, people!'" International superstar David Hasselhoff was hit all night by a tidal wave of razor sharp barbs and now it's available completely uncensored on DVD! Released via Comedy Central Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment, the "Comedy Central Roast of David Hasselhoff" DVD arrives in...
- 1/13/2011
- by April MacIntyre
- Monsters and Critics
[1] I wasn't planning to write about Gallery1988's first annual "Is This Thing On" art show as it really has little connection to movies or television (or so I thought... the above piece featuring Judd Apatow mashed-up with the infamous Star Trek Tribbles episode is a fine example of this). The show, co-sponsored by FunnyOrDie, features over 100 artists, each creating pieces that are portraits of their favorite funny people, both beloved comics of yesteryear and emerging superstars. The line up of comedians depicted include: Chris Farley, Will Ferrel, Richard Pryor, Don Rickles, Paul Reubens,Tim & Eric, Nick Kroll, Demetri Martin, Chris Rock, Whitney Cummings, Jon Lovitz, Sam Kinison, Bill Murray, Woody Allen, Colin Quinn, Bill Hicks, Howard Stern, Judd Apatow, Chris Hardwick, Marc Maron, Scott Auckerman, David Spade, Andy Dick, Lenny Bruce, Adam Sandler, Amy Sedaris, Lisa Lampanelli, David Cross, Andy Kaufman, Christopher Guest, Mr. Show, Rob Corddry and Children's Hospital,...
- 1/8/2011
- by Peter Sciretta
- Slash Film
Review Of The Year
It's been an incredible year in the world of showbiz, with the usual headline-grabbing antics, scandal, sleaze, celebrity births, star weddings, and bitter break-ups. Here, WENN takes a look back at the final six months of 2010...
July
Love was in the air in July as a host of celebrities walked down the aisle - Spanish stars Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem tied the knot in the Bahamas, while Emily Blunt became Mrs. John Krasinski after marrying The Office star in romantic Como, Italy.
A pregnant Alicia Keys said 'I do' to Swizz Beatz, while Orlando Bloom and Australian model Miranda Kerr became husband and wife in a secret ceremony. Wedding bells also rang in Georgia as country sweetheart Carrie Underwood married her hockey hunk, Mike Fisher.
But there was also plenty of heartache in Hollywood - Kelly Osbourne called off her engagement to model Luke Worrall over allegations he had cheated on her, and Frasier star Kelsey Grammer's wife filed for divorce after almost 13 years of marriage. R&B singer Christina Milian picked July to announce she was splitting from her producer husband The-Dream - less than a year after the couple wed in Las Vegas.
Celebrations were in order for Christina Applegate after she revealed she was pregnant with her first child, while Vince Vaughn, Zac Hanson, Ugly Betty star Becki Newton and Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor also announced they were expecting babies with their respective partners.
Director Sam Taylor-Wood and Aaron Johnson became the proud parents of a baby girl - their first child together - while Australian pop star Dannii Minogue welcomed baby boy Ethan with her partner Kris Smith.
But July was not without scandal - Paris Hilton was questioned by authorities at the World Cup soccer tournament in South Africa over allegations she was smoking pot. Just two weeks later, she was held by police in France after she was allegedly caught carrying cannabis in her handbag.
The heiress' former pal Lindsay Lohan also hit headlines for all the wrong reasons - just days after turning 24, she was ordered to spend 90 days in jail for violating the terms of her probation stemming from a 2007 DUI arrest.
Former Wham! star George Michael also had a run-in with the law - he was arrested after driving his car into a shop in London, and Foxy Brown was also taken into custody after allegedly violating a protective order.
Meanwhile, Rosemary's Baby director Roman Polanski was freed from house arrest after officials in Switzerland threw out a request to extradite him to the U.S. for sentencing on a child-sex charge.
Mel Gibson's marital woes continued into July - Los Angeles police launched an official investigation amid claims the Braveheart star punched his ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva during a heated altercation. It came after the leaking of a series of audio recordings in which a man said to be Gibson unleashes a series of foul-mouthed rants at his ex.
There was a health scare for British singer Cheryl Cole as she was diagnosed with malaria after collapsing at a photoshoot, while movie legends Tony Curtis and Zsa Zsa Gabor were also hospitalised. Pink was rushed to the emergency room after a stage stunt went wrong, sending the pop punk flying into a metal barrier during a concert in Germany.
Courtroom battles loomed for bad boy actor David Boreanaz, who was slapped with a sexual harassment lawsuit from a former extra on his hit TV show Bones, and Casey Affleck, who was sued by a producer of his movie I'm Still Here over sexual harassment allegations.
August
There were festival dramas aplenty in August, with The Libertines and Guns N' Roses dominating headlines at Britain's Reading and Leeds weekenders. Pete Doherty's group reunited earlier this year and played sets at the festivals - but their performances were blighted when overeager fans got crushed and trampled during the frenetic gigs, forcing the rockers off the stage to allow the revellers chance to recover. Axl Rose sparked an ongoing war-of-words with event boss Melvin Benn after he decided to shut the sound off when the band overran its curfew.
Further drama occurred in August when Naomi Campbell took to the stand in The Hague, Netherlands to testify at the war crimes trial of ex-Liberian President Charles Taylor, socialite Paris Hilton was arrested for cocaine possession in Las Vegas, and Charlie Sheen pleaded guilty to a charge of misdemeanour assault relating to a Christmas Day fight with now-estranged wife Brooke Mueller. The Two And A Half Men actor was sentenced to 30 days in jail, but served time in rehab instead.
Another star seeking help for her personal issues was Lindsay Lohan. The Mean Girls actress walked free from prison before the end of her sentence for violating her probation relating to a 2007 DUI arrest, and immediately entered rehab - only to leave the health centre early as well.
Lohan's woes weren't the only ones in Hollywood - Zsa Zsa Gabor was in and out of hospital due to complications stemming from her summer accident which resulted in several bone fractures, while Aretha Franklin broke her ribs in a freak fall, prompting her to cancel a string of shows.
However, the biggest health shock of the month was the revelation that Michael Douglas had been diagnosed with a throat tumour. The Wall Street legend began radiation and chemotherapy shortly before going public with his battle and helped raise awareness of the disease by appearing on America's Stand Up 2 Cancer TV special to urge fans to raise cash for research.
There was happier health news for many in the public eye in August - Miranda Kerr, Penny Lancaster and Alanis Morissette all announced their pregnancies, while British Prime Minister David Cameron became a father again when his wife Samantha gave birth to their fourth child, Florence, while they were holidaying in Cornwall, south-west England.
Wedding bells were also chiming, with Hilary Duff walking down the aisle to marry ice hockey star Mike Comrie, veteran singer Julio Iglesias exchanging vows with his longtime girlfriend, and James Van Der Beek cementing his union with his then-pregnant girlfriend Kimberly Brook - they've since welcomed baby Olivia.
September
Lady Gaga was the big winner and talking point at the MTV Video Music Awards this month - she picked up eight accolades and stunned everyone by taking to the stage in a meat dress. Meanwhile, Penelope Cruz confirmed the news she was pregnant with Javier Bardem's baby, and Angelina Jolie - who visited flood-ravaged Pakistan - was named Best Celebrity Role Model in an online poll.
George Michael began his eight-week prison sentence in London after being found guilty of cannabis possession and driving under the influence of drugs, and Guns N' Roses were booed and bottled offstage in Ireland after making fans wait for their performance.
Smashing Pumpkins star Billy Corgan confirmed reports he was dating Aussie pop star Jessica Origliasso, and the Charlatans axed U.S. shows after Jon Brookes collapsed onstage during a concert in Pennsylvania. He was later diagnosed with a brain tumour..
Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen welcomed their second child, John Lennon's killer Mark Chapman was denied parole for a sixth time, and Sofia Coppola picked up the Golden Lion Award at the Venice Film Festival amid a storm of controversy - her ex-boyfriend, Quentin Tarantino, led the jury!
Meanwhile, Take That bandmates Robbie Williams and Gary Barlow performed together for the first time in 15 years at a benefit for injured British soldiers, but Duff McKagan quit Jane's Addiction after five months and just three gigs.
The Troggs star Reg Presley suffered a stroke while holidaying in Spain and country music duo Brooks & Dunn split after an emotional night at a Nashville charity gig.
Elsewhere, T.I. and his wife were arrested in Los Angeles on suspicion of drug possession, UB40 star Ali Campbell was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr Syndrome, and Leonardo DiCaprio won a three-year restraining order against a woman claiming to be his wife.
Johnny Depp was named the highest paid actor by Forbes magazine, Britney Spears' one-time minder, Fernando Flores, filed suit against the pop star, claiming she had sexually harassed him and exposed herself in front of him, and The xx picked up Britain's prestigious Mercury Music Prize.
Eddie Vedder, Johnny Knoxville and David Essex wed - not to each other - and R&B star Lyfe Jennings was jailed for three and a half years over a violent altercation with his former girlfriend.
Meanwhile, James Gandolfini was caught driving on a suspended licence, Paris Hilton was refused entry to Japan; Kings of Leon star Caleb Followill and hot model Lily Aldridge announced their engagement, and actor Randy Quaid and his wife were arrested and charged with burglary amid allegations they had been illegally squatting in the house they once called home.
Actor Shelley Malil was convicted of attempted murder, Wyclef Jean announced he'd be running for presidential office in Haiti again in 2015 after his 2010 bid was dismissed, and comedian Greg Giraldo died in hospital after suffering an accidental drug overdose. Lindsay Lohan returned to rehab, David Beckham's lawyers served a writ to a hooker who claimed she'd slept with the soccer stud, and Heart rocker Nancy Wilson filed for divorce from moviemaker Cameron Crowe.
There was baby news for Mario Lopez, actresses Jodie Sweetin and Danica McKellar, actor James Van Der Beek, Rascal Flatts star Joe Don Rooney and celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
Elo star Mike Edwards was killed in a freak accident, while veteran actors Harold Gould, Gloria Stuart and Kevin McCarthy also passed away along with legendary French director Claude Chabrol and filmmakers Arthur Penn and Clive Donner.
Other deaths included that of former boy band star Rich Cronin, who passed away after a stroke, aged 35, and Hollywood lost true legends in Eddie Fisher and Tony Curtis.
October
Celebrity break-ups were big news in October with a number of high-profile couples calling time on their relationship. Courteney Cox and David Arquette stunned the world by announcing they were taking a break from their 11-year marriage, and just days later singer Christina Aguilera confirmed her split from husband Jordan Bratman. Ben Harper and Laura Dern also filed for divorce after 10 years together.
But October also saw an influx of celebrity weddings - Katy Perry and Russell Brand sealed their love in a lavish Indian ceremony, and both Paul Weller and David Schwimmer hit the news when it emerged they had married their girlfriends in secret earlier in the year.
There was also plenty of baby news - Mariah Carey confirmed she is expecting her first child with husband Nick Cannon after months of speculation, while Celine Dion put the heartache of fertility treatment behind her to become a mum to twin boys. Hip-hop supercouple Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz welcomed a baby boy named Egypt and Neil Patrick Harris became father to twins born via a surrogate.
Britain was in mourning following the loss of comedy legend Norman Wisdom, who passed away at the age of 95, while the world of music was rocked by the death of legendary soul singer Solomon Burke after he collapsed at an airport in Amsterdam, Holland. The death of soprano Joan Sutherland in Switzerland at the age of 83 prompted an outpouring of grief in her native Australia, and The Slits star Ari Up lost her battle with cancer at the age of 48.
The scandal of the month came courtesy of Charlie Sheen, who hit headlines when cops were called to his trashed suite at a New York City hotel during a night with a young model/actress. The star's reps blamed his meltdown on "an adverse reaction to medication". It was also a bad month for Mel Gibson - his personal problems with ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva cost him a role in The Hangover sequel, while Taylor Swift was hit with a multi-million dollar lawsuit from a former manager. But the country star made up for it by embarking on a new romance with Hollywood hunk Jake Gyllenhaal.
There were also plenty of stars keeping the prison service busy - rapper T.I. was sent back to jail for breaching his probation while Lindsay Lohan escaped her second potential prison sentence of 2010 when a judge ordered her to spend three months in rehab instead. Careless driver George Michael regained his freedom after completing 27 days of his eight-week jail sentence.
November
The royal news of the year was the talk of the month as Prince William and Kate Middleton announced their engagement and plans to wed in 2011
Teen star Demi Lovato stunned young Hollywood when she quite the Jonas Brothers tour and checked into rehab to address personal and "emotional" issues, and Charlie Sheen and Lil Wayne officially became free men again - the actor's divorce from Brooke Mueller became official, while rapper Wayne was released from prison.
MGM, the studio behind the James Bond film franchise, filed for bankruptcy, actor Justin Long was injured in a car crash, and soul queen Aretha Franklin pulled out of a series of shows to undergo surgery.
Spice Girls star Emma Bunton and Pink announced they were pregnant, Lady Gaga was the big winner at the European Music Awards, and Rachel Weisz and moviemaker Darren Aronofsky split.
The Munsters child star Butch Patrick entered rehab to tackle substance abuse and alcohol issues, Wesley Snipes was ordered to jail after losing his bid for a retrial in his tax case, Audrina Patridge's stalker was jailed for two years when he failed to stay away from the star, and country singer Eddie Montgomery was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Meanwhile, Ryan Reynolds was named Sexiest Man Alive by People magazine, Eva Longoria split from her husband Tony Parker amid reports he had been cheating on her, Kate Winslet split from boyfriend Louis Dowler, and Hollywood was stunned when top publicist Ronni Chasen was shot dead while driving through Beverly Hills .
In music news, Take That's Progress became Britain's fastest selling album of the century so far, Radiohead's Thom Yorke helped mastermind a piece of human art that could be seen from space, Miley Cyrus celebrated her 18th birthday party with pals Demi Moore and Rumer Willis, and Justin Bieber stole the show at the American Music Awards, taking home four prizes.
Malin Akerman replaced Lindsay Lohan as Linda Lovelace in the much-hyped Inferno, Leonardo DiCaprio was caught up in a mid-air drama when a plane he was flying to Russia in was forced to make an emergency landing after an engine stalled, and there was drama backstage at hit U.S. TV show Dancing With The Stars as studio staff came across an envelope containing a mysterious white powder intended for contestant Bristol Palin - it turned out to be talc!
Emmy Rossum and Counting Crows frontman Adam Duritz split, Jennifer Jason Leigh filed for divorce from filmmaker husband Noah Baumbach, and Ugly Betty actor Michael L. Brea was charged with murder after stabbing his mother with a Samurai sword. Willie Nelson was arrested and charged with drug possession, indie movie Winter's Bone became a big Oscars contender after claiming top prizes at the Stockholm and Gotham Film Festivals, and the Spider-Man musical opened on Broadway after a series of delays - the critics largely hated it.
Meanwhile, David Cassidy pleaded not guilty to DUI charges following his arrest in Florida, Uma Thurman's stalker was arrested after violating a restraining order, and AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd was convicted of cannabis possession in New Zealand.
The baby news of the month came from the Travoltas as movie star John and his wife Kelly Preston welcomed Benjamin into the world and the proud new parents list for November also featured Stella McCartney, Ne-Yo, Vera Farmiga, Green Day star Mike Dirnt and actress Emilia Fox, while rocker Chris Daughtry became a dad to twins.
The music world mourned the loss of Australian rocker James Freud who died just days after his band Models were inducted into the Aria Hall of Fame.
And it was a sad month for Hollywood as movie mogul Dino De Laurentiis passed away alongside actresses Ingrid Pitt and Jill Clayburgh and Naked Gun star Leslie Nielsen.
The film world also bid farewell to The Empire Strikes Back director Irvin Kershner and revered Italian filmmaker Mario Monicelli.
December
December saw a series of scandals as the stars brought a touch of sex and drugs to the festive season - and wildchild Miley Cyrus led the way. The former Disney star ended 2010 by reminding us all she's a grown up now after she was caught on camera smoking legal hallucinogenic Salvia from a bong, and hit headlines again days later when she was pictured in a girl-on-girl clinch and exposing her bra while surrounded by hunky men.
Her pal Demi Lovato joined the Hannah Montana star in scandal when provocative photos which appeared to show her partly-exposing her breasts leaked on the internet, and Christina Aguilera's reps vowed to hunt down computer hackers who leaked nearly-nude photos of the Beautiful hitmaker.
Pink Floyd rocker David Gilmour told of his shame after his son was arrested for clambering over a war memorial during student riots in London, and Hulk Hogan's wedding to Jennifer McDaniel descended into chaos when cops were called to break up a clash between a bodyguard and a photographer.
Love was in the air for Reese Witherspoon, who got engaged to Hollywood agent Jim Toth, and also making wedding plans this month were Ginnifer Goodwin, Shania Twain, Kelsey Grammer, Jennifer Connelly and Paul Bettany, Poison rocker Bret Michaels, and Hugh Hefner. And it was double delight for Natalie Portman – the actress got engaged and announced she's pregnant by choreographer Benjamin Millepied. Meanwhile, Michael Sheen and Rachel McAdams became Hollywood's hottest new couple.
Actor Vince Vaughn became a father for the first time, and there were also new arrivals for Alanis Morissette, Ali Larter, and Elton John, who became a father at 63 after he and boyfriend David Furnish welcomed a son via a surrogate mother.
Nicole Richie had her father Lionel dancing on the ceiling when she wed Joel Madden, but other stars weren't so lucky in love - Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens ended their romance, Elizabeth Hurley confirmed her marriage split from Arun Nayar after she was linked to cricketer Shane Warne, rocker John Mellencamp split from his wife of 18 years, and Ryan Reynolds filed for divorce from Scarlett Johansson.
In the courts, Kc and The Sunshine Band co-founder Richard R. Finch was jailed for seven years for sexually abusing young boys, Rip Torn was given a suspended jail term for his drunken bank break-in, and rapper Dmx was sent to prison for a year for violating his probation by using drugs. In Florida, officials posthumously pardoned Jim Morrison over his infamous arrest for indecent exposure at a 1969 The Doors concert.
Meanwhile, Heather Locklear was hospitalised for a bacterial infection, Eminem was celebrating after landing 10 Grammy nominations, rap mogul Suge Knight was arrested after missing a court hearing, and exiled moviemaker Roman Polanski's The Ghost Writer was the big winner at the European Film Awards.
Lady Gaga was named Artist of the Year by Billboard magazine editors, veteran entertainers Dame Julie Andrews and Dolly Parton were announced as recipients of lifetime achievement Grammy awards at a special upcoming ceremony in 2011, and Natalie Portman's hopes of Oscar glory for her movie Black Swan received a major boost by landing a record 12 nominations for the 2011 Critics' Choice Movie Awards.
The showbiz world mourned the loss of jazz musicians Billy Taylor and James Moody, Pink Panther creator Blake Edwards, rocker Captain Beefheart, singer/songwriter Teena Marie, and Boney M star Bobby Farrell.
And it was a miserable end to 2010 for Taylor Momsen - the Gossip Girl star spent Christmas in Amsterdam, Holland - away from her family and friends in the U.S. - after she became stranded in Europe due to flights chaos following snowstorms across the continent.
July
Love was in the air in July as a host of celebrities walked down the aisle - Spanish stars Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem tied the knot in the Bahamas, while Emily Blunt became Mrs. John Krasinski after marrying The Office star in romantic Como, Italy.
A pregnant Alicia Keys said 'I do' to Swizz Beatz, while Orlando Bloom and Australian model Miranda Kerr became husband and wife in a secret ceremony. Wedding bells also rang in Georgia as country sweetheart Carrie Underwood married her hockey hunk, Mike Fisher.
But there was also plenty of heartache in Hollywood - Kelly Osbourne called off her engagement to model Luke Worrall over allegations he had cheated on her, and Frasier star Kelsey Grammer's wife filed for divorce after almost 13 years of marriage. R&B singer Christina Milian picked July to announce she was splitting from her producer husband The-Dream - less than a year after the couple wed in Las Vegas.
Celebrations were in order for Christina Applegate after she revealed she was pregnant with her first child, while Vince Vaughn, Zac Hanson, Ugly Betty star Becki Newton and Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor also announced they were expecting babies with their respective partners.
Director Sam Taylor-Wood and Aaron Johnson became the proud parents of a baby girl - their first child together - while Australian pop star Dannii Minogue welcomed baby boy Ethan with her partner Kris Smith.
But July was not without scandal - Paris Hilton was questioned by authorities at the World Cup soccer tournament in South Africa over allegations she was smoking pot. Just two weeks later, she was held by police in France after she was allegedly caught carrying cannabis in her handbag.
The heiress' former pal Lindsay Lohan also hit headlines for all the wrong reasons - just days after turning 24, she was ordered to spend 90 days in jail for violating the terms of her probation stemming from a 2007 DUI arrest.
Former Wham! star George Michael also had a run-in with the law - he was arrested after driving his car into a shop in London, and Foxy Brown was also taken into custody after allegedly violating a protective order.
Meanwhile, Rosemary's Baby director Roman Polanski was freed from house arrest after officials in Switzerland threw out a request to extradite him to the U.S. for sentencing on a child-sex charge.
Mel Gibson's marital woes continued into July - Los Angeles police launched an official investigation amid claims the Braveheart star punched his ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva during a heated altercation. It came after the leaking of a series of audio recordings in which a man said to be Gibson unleashes a series of foul-mouthed rants at his ex.
There was a health scare for British singer Cheryl Cole as she was diagnosed with malaria after collapsing at a photoshoot, while movie legends Tony Curtis and Zsa Zsa Gabor were also hospitalised. Pink was rushed to the emergency room after a stage stunt went wrong, sending the pop punk flying into a metal barrier during a concert in Germany.
Courtroom battles loomed for bad boy actor David Boreanaz, who was slapped with a sexual harassment lawsuit from a former extra on his hit TV show Bones, and Casey Affleck, who was sued by a producer of his movie I'm Still Here over sexual harassment allegations.
August
There were festival dramas aplenty in August, with The Libertines and Guns N' Roses dominating headlines at Britain's Reading and Leeds weekenders. Pete Doherty's group reunited earlier this year and played sets at the festivals - but their performances were blighted when overeager fans got crushed and trampled during the frenetic gigs, forcing the rockers off the stage to allow the revellers chance to recover. Axl Rose sparked an ongoing war-of-words with event boss Melvin Benn after he decided to shut the sound off when the band overran its curfew.
Further drama occurred in August when Naomi Campbell took to the stand in The Hague, Netherlands to testify at the war crimes trial of ex-Liberian President Charles Taylor, socialite Paris Hilton was arrested for cocaine possession in Las Vegas, and Charlie Sheen pleaded guilty to a charge of misdemeanour assault relating to a Christmas Day fight with now-estranged wife Brooke Mueller. The Two And A Half Men actor was sentenced to 30 days in jail, but served time in rehab instead.
Another star seeking help for her personal issues was Lindsay Lohan. The Mean Girls actress walked free from prison before the end of her sentence for violating her probation relating to a 2007 DUI arrest, and immediately entered rehab - only to leave the health centre early as well.
Lohan's woes weren't the only ones in Hollywood - Zsa Zsa Gabor was in and out of hospital due to complications stemming from her summer accident which resulted in several bone fractures, while Aretha Franklin broke her ribs in a freak fall, prompting her to cancel a string of shows.
However, the biggest health shock of the month was the revelation that Michael Douglas had been diagnosed with a throat tumour. The Wall Street legend began radiation and chemotherapy shortly before going public with his battle and helped raise awareness of the disease by appearing on America's Stand Up 2 Cancer TV special to urge fans to raise cash for research.
There was happier health news for many in the public eye in August - Miranda Kerr, Penny Lancaster and Alanis Morissette all announced their pregnancies, while British Prime Minister David Cameron became a father again when his wife Samantha gave birth to their fourth child, Florence, while they were holidaying in Cornwall, south-west England.
Wedding bells were also chiming, with Hilary Duff walking down the aisle to marry ice hockey star Mike Comrie, veteran singer Julio Iglesias exchanging vows with his longtime girlfriend, and James Van Der Beek cementing his union with his then-pregnant girlfriend Kimberly Brook - they've since welcomed baby Olivia.
September
Lady Gaga was the big winner and talking point at the MTV Video Music Awards this month - she picked up eight accolades and stunned everyone by taking to the stage in a meat dress. Meanwhile, Penelope Cruz confirmed the news she was pregnant with Javier Bardem's baby, and Angelina Jolie - who visited flood-ravaged Pakistan - was named Best Celebrity Role Model in an online poll.
George Michael began his eight-week prison sentence in London after being found guilty of cannabis possession and driving under the influence of drugs, and Guns N' Roses were booed and bottled offstage in Ireland after making fans wait for their performance.
Smashing Pumpkins star Billy Corgan confirmed reports he was dating Aussie pop star Jessica Origliasso, and the Charlatans axed U.S. shows after Jon Brookes collapsed onstage during a concert in Pennsylvania. He was later diagnosed with a brain tumour..
Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen welcomed their second child, John Lennon's killer Mark Chapman was denied parole for a sixth time, and Sofia Coppola picked up the Golden Lion Award at the Venice Film Festival amid a storm of controversy - her ex-boyfriend, Quentin Tarantino, led the jury!
Meanwhile, Take That bandmates Robbie Williams and Gary Barlow performed together for the first time in 15 years at a benefit for injured British soldiers, but Duff McKagan quit Jane's Addiction after five months and just three gigs.
The Troggs star Reg Presley suffered a stroke while holidaying in Spain and country music duo Brooks & Dunn split after an emotional night at a Nashville charity gig.
Elsewhere, T.I. and his wife were arrested in Los Angeles on suspicion of drug possession, UB40 star Ali Campbell was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr Syndrome, and Leonardo DiCaprio won a three-year restraining order against a woman claiming to be his wife.
Johnny Depp was named the highest paid actor by Forbes magazine, Britney Spears' one-time minder, Fernando Flores, filed suit against the pop star, claiming she had sexually harassed him and exposed herself in front of him, and The xx picked up Britain's prestigious Mercury Music Prize.
Eddie Vedder, Johnny Knoxville and David Essex wed - not to each other - and R&B star Lyfe Jennings was jailed for three and a half years over a violent altercation with his former girlfriend.
Meanwhile, James Gandolfini was caught driving on a suspended licence, Paris Hilton was refused entry to Japan; Kings of Leon star Caleb Followill and hot model Lily Aldridge announced their engagement, and actor Randy Quaid and his wife were arrested and charged with burglary amid allegations they had been illegally squatting in the house they once called home.
Actor Shelley Malil was convicted of attempted murder, Wyclef Jean announced he'd be running for presidential office in Haiti again in 2015 after his 2010 bid was dismissed, and comedian Greg Giraldo died in hospital after suffering an accidental drug overdose. Lindsay Lohan returned to rehab, David Beckham's lawyers served a writ to a hooker who claimed she'd slept with the soccer stud, and Heart rocker Nancy Wilson filed for divorce from moviemaker Cameron Crowe.
There was baby news for Mario Lopez, actresses Jodie Sweetin and Danica McKellar, actor James Van Der Beek, Rascal Flatts star Joe Don Rooney and celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
Elo star Mike Edwards was killed in a freak accident, while veteran actors Harold Gould, Gloria Stuart and Kevin McCarthy also passed away along with legendary French director Claude Chabrol and filmmakers Arthur Penn and Clive Donner.
Other deaths included that of former boy band star Rich Cronin, who passed away after a stroke, aged 35, and Hollywood lost true legends in Eddie Fisher and Tony Curtis.
October
Celebrity break-ups were big news in October with a number of high-profile couples calling time on their relationship. Courteney Cox and David Arquette stunned the world by announcing they were taking a break from their 11-year marriage, and just days later singer Christina Aguilera confirmed her split from husband Jordan Bratman. Ben Harper and Laura Dern also filed for divorce after 10 years together.
But October also saw an influx of celebrity weddings - Katy Perry and Russell Brand sealed their love in a lavish Indian ceremony, and both Paul Weller and David Schwimmer hit the news when it emerged they had married their girlfriends in secret earlier in the year.
There was also plenty of baby news - Mariah Carey confirmed she is expecting her first child with husband Nick Cannon after months of speculation, while Celine Dion put the heartache of fertility treatment behind her to become a mum to twin boys. Hip-hop supercouple Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz welcomed a baby boy named Egypt and Neil Patrick Harris became father to twins born via a surrogate.
Britain was in mourning following the loss of comedy legend Norman Wisdom, who passed away at the age of 95, while the world of music was rocked by the death of legendary soul singer Solomon Burke after he collapsed at an airport in Amsterdam, Holland. The death of soprano Joan Sutherland in Switzerland at the age of 83 prompted an outpouring of grief in her native Australia, and The Slits star Ari Up lost her battle with cancer at the age of 48.
The scandal of the month came courtesy of Charlie Sheen, who hit headlines when cops were called to his trashed suite at a New York City hotel during a night with a young model/actress. The star's reps blamed his meltdown on "an adverse reaction to medication". It was also a bad month for Mel Gibson - his personal problems with ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva cost him a role in The Hangover sequel, while Taylor Swift was hit with a multi-million dollar lawsuit from a former manager. But the country star made up for it by embarking on a new romance with Hollywood hunk Jake Gyllenhaal.
There were also plenty of stars keeping the prison service busy - rapper T.I. was sent back to jail for breaching his probation while Lindsay Lohan escaped her second potential prison sentence of 2010 when a judge ordered her to spend three months in rehab instead. Careless driver George Michael regained his freedom after completing 27 days of his eight-week jail sentence.
November
The royal news of the year was the talk of the month as Prince William and Kate Middleton announced their engagement and plans to wed in 2011
Teen star Demi Lovato stunned young Hollywood when she quite the Jonas Brothers tour and checked into rehab to address personal and "emotional" issues, and Charlie Sheen and Lil Wayne officially became free men again - the actor's divorce from Brooke Mueller became official, while rapper Wayne was released from prison.
MGM, the studio behind the James Bond film franchise, filed for bankruptcy, actor Justin Long was injured in a car crash, and soul queen Aretha Franklin pulled out of a series of shows to undergo surgery.
Spice Girls star Emma Bunton and Pink announced they were pregnant, Lady Gaga was the big winner at the European Music Awards, and Rachel Weisz and moviemaker Darren Aronofsky split.
The Munsters child star Butch Patrick entered rehab to tackle substance abuse and alcohol issues, Wesley Snipes was ordered to jail after losing his bid for a retrial in his tax case, Audrina Patridge's stalker was jailed for two years when he failed to stay away from the star, and country singer Eddie Montgomery was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Meanwhile, Ryan Reynolds was named Sexiest Man Alive by People magazine, Eva Longoria split from her husband Tony Parker amid reports he had been cheating on her, Kate Winslet split from boyfriend Louis Dowler, and Hollywood was stunned when top publicist Ronni Chasen was shot dead while driving through Beverly Hills .
In music news, Take That's Progress became Britain's fastest selling album of the century so far, Radiohead's Thom Yorke helped mastermind a piece of human art that could be seen from space, Miley Cyrus celebrated her 18th birthday party with pals Demi Moore and Rumer Willis, and Justin Bieber stole the show at the American Music Awards, taking home four prizes.
Malin Akerman replaced Lindsay Lohan as Linda Lovelace in the much-hyped Inferno, Leonardo DiCaprio was caught up in a mid-air drama when a plane he was flying to Russia in was forced to make an emergency landing after an engine stalled, and there was drama backstage at hit U.S. TV show Dancing With The Stars as studio staff came across an envelope containing a mysterious white powder intended for contestant Bristol Palin - it turned out to be talc!
Emmy Rossum and Counting Crows frontman Adam Duritz split, Jennifer Jason Leigh filed for divorce from filmmaker husband Noah Baumbach, and Ugly Betty actor Michael L. Brea was charged with murder after stabbing his mother with a Samurai sword. Willie Nelson was arrested and charged with drug possession, indie movie Winter's Bone became a big Oscars contender after claiming top prizes at the Stockholm and Gotham Film Festivals, and the Spider-Man musical opened on Broadway after a series of delays - the critics largely hated it.
Meanwhile, David Cassidy pleaded not guilty to DUI charges following his arrest in Florida, Uma Thurman's stalker was arrested after violating a restraining order, and AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd was convicted of cannabis possession in New Zealand.
The baby news of the month came from the Travoltas as movie star John and his wife Kelly Preston welcomed Benjamin into the world and the proud new parents list for November also featured Stella McCartney, Ne-Yo, Vera Farmiga, Green Day star Mike Dirnt and actress Emilia Fox, while rocker Chris Daughtry became a dad to twins.
The music world mourned the loss of Australian rocker James Freud who died just days after his band Models were inducted into the Aria Hall of Fame.
And it was a sad month for Hollywood as movie mogul Dino De Laurentiis passed away alongside actresses Ingrid Pitt and Jill Clayburgh and Naked Gun star Leslie Nielsen.
The film world also bid farewell to The Empire Strikes Back director Irvin Kershner and revered Italian filmmaker Mario Monicelli.
December
December saw a series of scandals as the stars brought a touch of sex and drugs to the festive season - and wildchild Miley Cyrus led the way. The former Disney star ended 2010 by reminding us all she's a grown up now after she was caught on camera smoking legal hallucinogenic Salvia from a bong, and hit headlines again days later when she was pictured in a girl-on-girl clinch and exposing her bra while surrounded by hunky men.
Her pal Demi Lovato joined the Hannah Montana star in scandal when provocative photos which appeared to show her partly-exposing her breasts leaked on the internet, and Christina Aguilera's reps vowed to hunt down computer hackers who leaked nearly-nude photos of the Beautiful hitmaker.
Pink Floyd rocker David Gilmour told of his shame after his son was arrested for clambering over a war memorial during student riots in London, and Hulk Hogan's wedding to Jennifer McDaniel descended into chaos when cops were called to break up a clash between a bodyguard and a photographer.
Love was in the air for Reese Witherspoon, who got engaged to Hollywood agent Jim Toth, and also making wedding plans this month were Ginnifer Goodwin, Shania Twain, Kelsey Grammer, Jennifer Connelly and Paul Bettany, Poison rocker Bret Michaels, and Hugh Hefner. And it was double delight for Natalie Portman – the actress got engaged and announced she's pregnant by choreographer Benjamin Millepied. Meanwhile, Michael Sheen and Rachel McAdams became Hollywood's hottest new couple.
Actor Vince Vaughn became a father for the first time, and there were also new arrivals for Alanis Morissette, Ali Larter, and Elton John, who became a father at 63 after he and boyfriend David Furnish welcomed a son via a surrogate mother.
Nicole Richie had her father Lionel dancing on the ceiling when she wed Joel Madden, but other stars weren't so lucky in love - Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens ended their romance, Elizabeth Hurley confirmed her marriage split from Arun Nayar after she was linked to cricketer Shane Warne, rocker John Mellencamp split from his wife of 18 years, and Ryan Reynolds filed for divorce from Scarlett Johansson.
In the courts, Kc and The Sunshine Band co-founder Richard R. Finch was jailed for seven years for sexually abusing young boys, Rip Torn was given a suspended jail term for his drunken bank break-in, and rapper Dmx was sent to prison for a year for violating his probation by using drugs. In Florida, officials posthumously pardoned Jim Morrison over his infamous arrest for indecent exposure at a 1969 The Doors concert.
Meanwhile, Heather Locklear was hospitalised for a bacterial infection, Eminem was celebrating after landing 10 Grammy nominations, rap mogul Suge Knight was arrested after missing a court hearing, and exiled moviemaker Roman Polanski's The Ghost Writer was the big winner at the European Film Awards.
Lady Gaga was named Artist of the Year by Billboard magazine editors, veteran entertainers Dame Julie Andrews and Dolly Parton were announced as recipients of lifetime achievement Grammy awards at a special upcoming ceremony in 2011, and Natalie Portman's hopes of Oscar glory for her movie Black Swan received a major boost by landing a record 12 nominations for the 2011 Critics' Choice Movie Awards.
The showbiz world mourned the loss of jazz musicians Billy Taylor and James Moody, Pink Panther creator Blake Edwards, rocker Captain Beefheart, singer/songwriter Teena Marie, and Boney M star Bobby Farrell.
And it was a miserable end to 2010 for Taylor Momsen - the Gossip Girl star spent Christmas in Amsterdam, Holland - away from her family and friends in the U.S. - after she became stranded in Europe due to flights chaos following snowstorms across the continent.
- 1/1/2011
- WENN
TMZ has obtained the 911 call made the day Greg Giraldo overdosed. During the call, a hotel employee at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick, NJ tells the 911 operator that Giraldo was in his room and was not breathing. The employee also tells the dispatcher Giraldo's girlfriend had been trying to reach him all day -- and at the time of the call, she was in the room trying to administer CPR. Giraldo passed away on...
- 10/11/2010
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Comedians Chris Rock and Sarah Silverman were among the stars who paid tribute to tragic funnyman Greg Giraldo as he was laid to rest in New York on Tuesday, October 5. Giraldo passed away last week, on September 29, five days after he was admitted to hospital following an accidental drug overdose.
A memorial stand-up show was held in his honor at the Governor's Comedy Club in Levittown, New York on Friday, October 1. A private funeral for family and friends took place in The Hamptons in Long Island on Tuesday, where comedian Colin Quinn delivered a heartfelt speech about his late pal in front of fellow mourners including Rock, Silverman and Jon Stewart.
Greg Giraldo is known for his celebrity roast appearances. He had also become a judge on "Last Comic Standing".
A memorial stand-up show was held in his honor at the Governor's Comedy Club in Levittown, New York on Friday, October 1. A private funeral for family and friends took place in The Hamptons in Long Island on Tuesday, where comedian Colin Quinn delivered a heartfelt speech about his late pal in front of fellow mourners including Rock, Silverman and Jon Stewart.
Greg Giraldo is known for his celebrity roast appearances. He had also become a judge on "Last Comic Standing".
- 10/6/2010
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Rock And Silverman Mourn Giraldo At Funeral
Comedians Chris Rock and Sarah Silverman were among the stars who paid tribute to tragic funnyman Greg Giraldo as he was laid to rest in New York on Tuesday.
Giraldo passed away last week, five days after he was admitted to hospital following an accidental drug overdose.
A memorial stand-up show was held in his honour at the Governor's Comedy Club in Levittown, New York on Friday.
A private funeral for family and friends took place in The Hamptons in Long Island on Tuesday, where comedian Colin Quinn delivered a heartfelt speech about his late pal in front of fellow mourners including Rock, Silverman and Jon Stewart.
Giraldo passed away last week, five days after he was admitted to hospital following an accidental drug overdose.
A memorial stand-up show was held in his honour at the Governor's Comedy Club in Levittown, New York on Friday.
A private funeral for family and friends took place in The Hamptons in Long Island on Tuesday, where comedian Colin Quinn delivered a heartfelt speech about his late pal in front of fellow mourners including Rock, Silverman and Jon Stewart.
- 10/5/2010
- WENN
Greg Giraldo made his bones cracking people up. But his death has left some of the funniest folks on the planet "horribly sad." The Last Comic Standing host was laid to rest today in the Hamptons, in a private family ceremony. But for the past two nights, Giraldo was saluted by an all-star collection of comics, including Chris Rock, Sarah Silverman and Jon Stewart. The two-night wake played out to standing-room-only crowds at the Andrett Funeral Home in New York's East Village. Silverman and Rock were among those attending on Sunday, while on Monday evening Colin Quinn delivered a poignant eulogy and Giraldo's brother offered family stories. The mood was described by one attendee...
- 10/5/2010
- E! Online
Chris Rock, Jon Stewart Attend Wake for Greg Giraldo
Greg Giraldo was just laid to rest in a private family ceremony in The Hamptons ... but last night, tons of Giraldo's famous friends -- including Jon Stewart and Chris Rock -- gathered for a wake in his honor.
Among the famous comics who paid their respects at Giraldo's wake -- Sarah Silverman, Jeff Ross, Bobby Kelly, Jim Norton and Colin Quinn.
And, despite the presence of so many comics -- it wasn't jokey at all ... the mood was described as "very sad and emotional."
We're also told Colin Quinn delivered a very heartfelt speech about his friend.
As we previously reported, Greg passed away last week at the age of 44. Several of the comic's close friends have set up a fund to support and educate his three young sons.
Source: TMZ...
Greg Giraldo was just laid to rest in a private family ceremony in The Hamptons ... but last night, tons of Giraldo's famous friends -- including Jon Stewart and Chris Rock -- gathered for a wake in his honor.
Among the famous comics who paid their respects at Giraldo's wake -- Sarah Silverman, Jeff Ross, Bobby Kelly, Jim Norton and Colin Quinn.
And, despite the presence of so many comics -- it wasn't jokey at all ... the mood was described as "very sad and emotional."
We're also told Colin Quinn delivered a very heartfelt speech about his friend.
As we previously reported, Greg passed away last week at the age of 44. Several of the comic's close friends have set up a fund to support and educate his three young sons.
Source: TMZ...
- 10/5/2010
- by tmz
- Gossipvita
Greg Giraldo was just laid to rest in a private family ceremony in The Hamptons ... but last night, tons of Giraldo's famous friends -- including Jon Stewart and Chris Rock -- gathered for a wake in his honor. Among the famous comics who paid their respects at Giraldo's wake -- Sarah Silverman, Jeff Ross, Bobby Kelly, Jim Norton and Colin Quinn. And, despite the presence of so many comics -- it wasn't jokey at all...
- 10/5/2010
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Sarah Silverman, Colin Quinn and Jeff Ross also paid tribute to late comedian.
By Eric Ditzian
Greg Giraldo
Photo: Jason Merritt/ Getty Images
Comedian Greg Giraldo, who died last week at age 44, was laid to rest in a private family ceremony in the Hamptons on Monday, following which many of his celeb friends gathered for a wake in his honor.
Jon Stewart, Chris Rock and Sarah Silverman were among those who attended the wake, according to a TMZ report. The mood was said to be "very sad and emotional." Other comedians in attendance included Jeff Ross, Bobby Kelly, Jim Norton and Colin Quinn, who reportedly delivered an emotional speech about Giraldo.
According to reports, Giraldo suffered an accidental prescription-drug overdose and was hospitalized in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He was said to have collapsed in his hotel room in New Jersey, where he was performing at a comedy club. He...
By Eric Ditzian
Greg Giraldo
Photo: Jason Merritt/ Getty Images
Comedian Greg Giraldo, who died last week at age 44, was laid to rest in a private family ceremony in the Hamptons on Monday, following which many of his celeb friends gathered for a wake in his honor.
Jon Stewart, Chris Rock and Sarah Silverman were among those who attended the wake, according to a TMZ report. The mood was said to be "very sad and emotional." Other comedians in attendance included Jeff Ross, Bobby Kelly, Jim Norton and Colin Quinn, who reportedly delivered an emotional speech about Giraldo.
According to reports, Giraldo suffered an accidental prescription-drug overdose and was hospitalized in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He was said to have collapsed in his hotel room in New Jersey, where he was performing at a comedy club. He...
- 10/5/2010
- MTV Music News
Lisa Lampanelli didn't think Gilbert Gottfried was out of line when he cracked a cremation joke about Greg Giraldo just hours after his death -- in fact, Lisa thinks Greg would've appreciated it. Lisa -- who Greg endearingly referred to as a "Circus bear in a pant suit" -- spent lots of time exchanging insults with Giraldo at Roasts throughout the years ... and this weekend in NY, she told us, "You don't do the Roasts...
- 10/4/2010
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Greg Giraldo -- The Final Performance
TMZ has obtained footage from Greg Giraldo's last stand-up gig -- taken the night before the comic overdosed -- in which Greg appeared to be his usual self ... crackin' jokes about sex, drugs and Tiger Woods.
After the performance at the Stress Factory in New Brunswick, NJ on September 24 -- Greg took photos with several fans ... all of whom told us he couldn't have been nicer.
The following night, Greg was rushed to a local hospital from an overdose on pills. He passed away 5 days later.
Source: TMZ...
TMZ has obtained footage from Greg Giraldo's last stand-up gig -- taken the night before the comic overdosed -- in which Greg appeared to be his usual self ... crackin' jokes about sex, drugs and Tiger Woods.
After the performance at the Stress Factory in New Brunswick, NJ on September 24 -- Greg took photos with several fans ... all of whom told us he couldn't have been nicer.
The following night, Greg was rushed to a local hospital from an overdose on pills. He passed away 5 days later.
Source: TMZ...
- 10/3/2010
- by tmz
- Gossipvita
TMZ has obtained footage from Greg Giraldo 's last stand-up gig -- taken the night before the comic overdosed -- in which Greg appeared to be his usual self ... crackin' jokes about sex, drugs and Tiger Woods . After the performance at the Stress Factory in New Brunswick, NJ on September 24 -- Greg took photos with several fans ... all of whom told us he couldn't have been nicer. The following night, Greg was rushed to a...
- 10/3/2010
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Comics agree Giraldo was a 'genuine guy.'
By Jessica Hyndman, with reporting by Ignacio Guzman
Greg Giraldo
Photo: Ethan Miller/ Getty Images
Levittown, New York — Comedian Greg Giraldo's passing, reportedly due to an accidental drug overdose, rocked the comedy circuit. While family and friends were shaken by the sudden death, they were allotted an outlet at the Governor's Comedy Club tribute and benefit show in Levittown, New York on Friday night.
The turnout was immense at the venue, where Giraldo was scheduled to appear, and the event raised over $3,000 in support for Geraldo's family. Club owner Marc Lund managed to organize the event on just two days notice, easily booking comedians from all across the state with tremendous support.
"We wanted to celebrate his life," said Lund. "A lot of comics use this as a release."
The show was opened and hosted by comic Joey Kola, followed by...
By Jessica Hyndman, with reporting by Ignacio Guzman
Greg Giraldo
Photo: Ethan Miller/ Getty Images
Levittown, New York — Comedian Greg Giraldo's passing, reportedly due to an accidental drug overdose, rocked the comedy circuit. While family and friends were shaken by the sudden death, they were allotted an outlet at the Governor's Comedy Club tribute and benefit show in Levittown, New York on Friday night.
The turnout was immense at the venue, where Giraldo was scheduled to appear, and the event raised over $3,000 in support for Geraldo's family. Club owner Marc Lund managed to organize the event on just two days notice, easily booking comedians from all across the state with tremendous support.
"We wanted to celebrate his life," said Lund. "A lot of comics use this as a release."
The show was opened and hosted by comic Joey Kola, followed by...
- 10/2/2010
- MTV Music News
What a week. We said so long to some famous folks, including an uproarious roaster, a legendary Hollywood stud, a maverick filmmaker and the guy who invented The A-Team. We also saw some upheaval in Reality-tv Land, as Deadliest Catch was struck by the departure of three star captains, Gordon Ramsay suffered his own kitchen nightmare and Dancing With the Stars devolved into a catfight. So without further adieu, here's our week in review... Farewells: Greg Giraldo, TV personality, Comedy Central roastmeister, Howard Stern Show favorite and beloved by fellow comics, died at 44, four days after accidentally overdosing on prescription meds…Arthur Penn, visionary director of Bonnie and Clyde and Little...
- 10/2/2010
- E! Online
It's been a bad week for entertainment industry deaths, with "A-Team" and "Rockford Files" writer/producer Stephen Cannell joining a list that already included Greg Giraldo, Tony Curtis, Arthur Penn and Sally Menke. Patton Oswalt took note and proposed a tribute on his account.
In other news, a massive storm of photography hit Twitter-Wood over the last 24 hours. It was tough to pick out a winner, but John Travolta fans should enjoy the post from "Weird Al" Yankovic that earned the honor. Check it out along with David Hasselhoff's new "golf cart" and reactions to "The Social Network" and "Catfish" after the jump.
I'm @brianwarmoth, and this is Twitter-Wood for October 1, 2010.
Twitter Pic of the Day:
@alyankovic John Travolta is awesome! He’s totally going to let me switch faces with him! So excited!! http://twitpic.com/2tooop
-"Weird Al" Yankovic, Musican/Writer/Actor ("Uhf," "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story...
In other news, a massive storm of photography hit Twitter-Wood over the last 24 hours. It was tough to pick out a winner, but John Travolta fans should enjoy the post from "Weird Al" Yankovic that earned the honor. Check it out along with David Hasselhoff's new "golf cart" and reactions to "The Social Network" and "Catfish" after the jump.
I'm @brianwarmoth, and this is Twitter-Wood for October 1, 2010.
Twitter Pic of the Day:
@alyankovic John Travolta is awesome! He’s totally going to let me switch faces with him! So excited!! http://twitpic.com/2tooop
-"Weird Al" Yankovic, Musican/Writer/Actor ("Uhf," "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story...
- 10/1/2010
- by Brian Warmoth
- MTV Movies Blog
It’s been a sad week for celebrity deaths. In addition to Tony Curtis‘ death this week, comedian Greg Giraldo was also discovered in a hotel room after having overdosed on prescription medication. It has recently been revealed that he was on life support for five days, but his family elected to switch it off when doctors advised them that Giraldo would never be resuscitated. It’s a heartbreaking decision to have to make, and I applaud the Giraldo family for not letting him vegetate in a hospital bed for years on end. Greg Giraldo was quite a popular comedian and will be missed – I’m curious to see what ends up unfolding once we learn who the doctor was who prescribed the medication, and what exactly it was prescribed for.
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- 10/1/2010
- by AlexisJ
- SnarkFood.com
Tony Curtis passed away a couple of days ago – he was one of the true legends of acting. He did everything from comedy to drama roles, appearing in more than a hundred films over the span of a career that lasted more than six decades. In the past two days, his former co-stars, friends, and family have come forward with their memories, and it seems like the guy was universally loved by everyone who knew him. Not that I expect people to come forward and hate on the dead guy, but sometimes when unpopular people pass, everyone remains politely quiet. Not the case with Tony Curtis – his daughter, Jamie Lee Curtis, made a public statement talking about the extended family that loved him, and fellow actors Kirk Douglas and Kim Novak have both issued statements declaring their sadness at their friend’s passing. It’s sad that he’s gone,...
- 10/1/2010
- by AlexisJ
- SnarkFood.com
Giraldo's Family Turned Off Life Support Machine
Comedian Greg Giraldo died after his family made the harrowing decision to turn his life support machine off, according to a U.S. report.
The comic passed away on Wednesday five days after he was admitted to hospital following an accidental drug overdose.
Now details of his death have emerged - Giraldo reportedly slipped into a coma when he reached the medical facility.
His relatives were informed there would be no way to resuscitate him and decided they had no choice but to turn off his life support machine, reports TMZ.com.
A memorial is to be held for Giraldo on Friday at the Governor's Comedy Club in Levittown, New York, where he was due to perform.
The comic passed away on Wednesday five days after he was admitted to hospital following an accidental drug overdose.
Now details of his death have emerged - Giraldo reportedly slipped into a coma when he reached the medical facility.
His relatives were informed there would be no way to resuscitate him and decided they had no choice but to turn off his life support machine, reports TMZ.com.
A memorial is to be held for Giraldo on Friday at the Governor's Comedy Club in Levittown, New York, where he was due to perform.
- 10/1/2010
- WENN
Last Comic Standing judge and stand-up stalwart Greg Giraldo passed away this Wednesday from a drug overdose at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. I've always felt that this underrated comic never got the credit he was due, as Giraldo was often the best part of the Comedy Central Roasts he was known for. So, in honor of his passing, I've compiled some of his best routines in a video clip to your left.R.I.P Greg. Our thoughts go out to your friends and family.
- 10/1/2010
- by Peter Schaus, Oceanport TV Examiner
- Examiner - TV in New York
A comedy club where Greg Giraldo was scheduled to perform on Friday, October 1, is planning to put out on a memorial tribute in place of his show. The manager at the Governor's Comedy Club in Levittown, New York told TMZ that they plan to replace his set with a tribute which is scheduled for 10:30 P.M. The manager said, "We just want to commemorate his life."
Greg was announced dead on Wednesday following his hospitalization news on Saturday, September 25. A source close to the funnyman told the site that "Greg passed away today at the hospital in New Brunswick as a result of an accidental overdose."
Following Greg's death, the site came out with a shocking report. It turned out that Greg was taken off life support on Wednesday, September 29 after doctors weren't able to resuscitate the comedian. Greg's family decided to make the ultimate decision following Greg's five-day...
Greg was announced dead on Wednesday following his hospitalization news on Saturday, September 25. A source close to the funnyman told the site that "Greg passed away today at the hospital in New Brunswick as a result of an accidental overdose."
Following Greg's death, the site came out with a shocking report. It turned out that Greg was taken off life support on Wednesday, September 29 after doctors weren't able to resuscitate the comedian. Greg's family decided to make the ultimate decision following Greg's five-day...
- 10/1/2010
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Jon Stewart managed to slip a tribute to his friend Greg Giraldo who passed away on Wednesday, September 29 afternoon. The comedian was taken off life support by his family after accidentally overdosing over prescribed pills and went into coma for several days.
Stewart and his "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" team acknowledged the comedian's death in the pre-taped episode by changing the "Moment of Zen" segment to "Moment of Greg". Stewart said in remembrance, "When you were working the clubs, he was just one of those guys that you loved to run into, because he was always a font of warmth and good humor and just smart-as-hell comedy."
A clip of the comedian doing a stand up on Comedy Central was then played and ended with "We'll miss you brother, Greg Giraldo 1965 - 2010".
Meanwhile, Comedy Central has also taken time to release a statement in the wake of Giraldo's death.
Stewart and his "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" team acknowledged the comedian's death in the pre-taped episode by changing the "Moment of Zen" segment to "Moment of Greg". Stewart said in remembrance, "When you were working the clubs, he was just one of those guys that you loved to run into, because he was always a font of warmth and good humor and just smart-as-hell comedy."
A clip of the comedian doing a stand up on Comedy Central was then played and ended with "We'll miss you brother, Greg Giraldo 1965 - 2010".
Meanwhile, Comedy Central has also taken time to release a statement in the wake of Giraldo's death.
- 10/1/2010
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
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