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12-14-05 EUR ALL ON ONE PAGE
(December 14, 2005)
HOWARD, ‘CHRIS,’ BERRY, MERKERSON
AMONG GLOBE NOMS: ‘Sleeper Cell,’ ‘Prison
Break,’ ‘Tsotsi,’ ‘Lackawanna’ also in the running.
*In perhaps the best litmus test of the films
Break,’ ‘Tsotsi,’ ‘Lackawanna’ also in the running.
*In perhaps the best litmus test of the films
and actors in line for certain Oscar glory, the
Hollywood Foreign Press Association announced
its contenders for the 63rd Annual Golden Globe
Awards early Tuesday, with “Hustle & Flow”
star Terrence Howard named among the
nominees for Best Dramatic Actor.
The recognition follows recent attention given
The recognition follows recent attention given
to his 2005 film work from critics groups in
Washington D.C. and Los Angeles, as well
as the National Board of Review and the
Broadcast Film Critics Association.
Howard’s “Hustle & Flow” performance
Howard’s “Hustle & Flow” performance
shares the Best Actor category with Russell
Crowe (“Cinderella Man”), Philip Seymour
Hoffman (“Capote”), Heath Ledger (“Brokeback
Mountain”) and David Strathairn (“Good Night,
and Good Luck”).
The Paul Haggis and Bobby Moresco-penned
The Paul Haggis and Bobby Moresco-penned
“Crash,” which features Howard among its
ensemble cast, was nominated for Best
Screenplay – Motion Picture, opposite Woody
Allen’s “Match Point,” Clooney and Grant Heslov’s
“Good Night, and Good Luck,” Tony Kushner and
“Good Night, and Good Luck,” Tony Kushner and
Eric Roth’s “Munich” and Larry McMurtry and
Diana Ossana’s “Brokeback Mountain.”
“Everybody Hates Chris,” the critically-acclaimed
“Everybody Hates Chris,” the critically-acclaimed
UPN series executive produced and narrated by
Chris Rock, received a nomination for
Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy
Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy
along with HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and
“Entourage,” Showtime’s “Weeds,” NBC’s “My
Name is Earl” and ABC’s “Desperate Housewives.”
Speaking of “Housewives,” Eva Longoria wasn’t
Speaking of “Housewives,” Eva Longoria wasn’t
the only leading lady left out of the Golden Globe
shuffle this year. The actress, who plays the
fiery Gabrielle on the top-rated show, was
fiery Gabrielle on the top-rated show, was
nominated for Best Actress in a TV Series –
Musical or Comedy with her co-stars Marcia
Cross (Bree), Teri Hatcher (Susan) and Felicity
Huffman (Lynette). This time, Nicollette
Sheridan was the only one left behind on
Sheridan was the only one left behind on
Wisteria Lane. “Weeds” star Mary-Louise
Parker rounds out the category.
In a repeat of their Emmy battle, actresses
In a repeat of their Emmy battle, actresses
Halle Berry and S. Epatha Merkerson again find
themselves competing against each other for
Best Actress in a Mini-Series or a TV Movie –
Berry for her performance in the
ABC film, “Their Eyes Were Watching God,”
ABC film, “Their Eyes Were Watching God,”
Merkerson for the Berry-produced HBO film
“Lackawanna Blues.” Their competition in the
category includes Kelly MacDonald for “The
Girl in the Café,” Cynthia Nixon for “Warm Springs”
and Mira Sorvino for “Human Trafficking.”
“Lackawanna Blues” itself received a
and Mira Sorvino for “Human Trafficking.”
“Lackawanna Blues” itself received a
nomination for Best Mini-Series or Motion
Picture Made for Television, as did Michael
Ealy’s Showtime drama “Sleeper Cell.” They’ll
face competition from HBO’s “Empire Falls”
and “Warm Springs,” TNT’s “Into the West”
and BBC America’s “Viva Blackpool.”
Fox’s “Prison Break” and its star Wentworth
Fox’s “Prison Break” and its star Wentworth
Miller were nominated for Best Television
Series – Drama and Best Actor in a TV Drama
respectively. ABC’s “Commander in Chief,”
respectively. ABC’s “Commander in Chief,”
“Grey’s Anatomy” and “Lost;” and HBO’s
“Rome” are locked in a cell with the jailhouse
drama, while Miller tries to escape from
“Anatomy’s” Patrick Dempsey, “Lost” lead
Matthew Fox, “House” star Hugh Laurie
and “24’s” Kiefer Sutherland.
The gripping South African film “Tsotsi,”
The gripping South African film “Tsotsi,”
which follows six days in the violent life of a
young Johannesburg gang leader, was
nominated for Best Foreign Language
Film opposite Kung Fu Hustle (China),
Master of the Crimson Armor aka The
Promise (China), Merry Christmas
(Joyeux Noel) (France) and Paradise
Now (Palestine).
“Brokeback Mountain” continues its
“Brokeback Mountain” continues its
nomination domination, picking up a leading
seven Golden Globe nods following the myriad
of recognition it has already received from
various critics groups in year-end picks.
Winners of the Golden Globes will be
Winners of the Golden Globes will be
announced Jan. 16, five days before polls
close for Oscar voters. (Oscar nominations
come out Jan. 31, and the awards will be
presented March 5.)
The Globes feature 13 categories for film
The Globes feature 13 categories for film
and 11 for television. Unlike other major movie
awards, the Globes have separate divisions for
dramas and comedies or musicals in the best-
dramas and comedies or musicals in the best-
picture and lead-acting categories.
Anthony Hopkins will receive the group's
Anthony Hopkins will receive the group's
Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement.
MORE KUDOS FOR TERRENCE HOWARD
Growing list of critics groups singing actor’s
praises.
*Terrence Howard is this year’s Jamie
*Terrence Howard is this year’s Jamie
Foxx. While 2004 saw the “Ray”
star make a killing during the award season
star make a killing during the award season
leading up to his best actor win
at the Oscars, 2005 is shaping up to be
at the Oscars, 2005 is shaping up to be
the year in which Howard finally gets his
props, as the rest of the world (read:
mainstream America) finally gets hip to
the Chicago-native’s superior talent.
The National Board of Review (NBR), the
The National Board of Review (NBR), the
Washington D.C. Area Film Critics Association
(WAFCA) and the Los Angeles Film Critics
Association (LAFCA) have each given their
version of “breakthrough performance” awards
to Howard for his 2005 work in "Crash,"
to Howard for his 2005 work in "Crash,"
"Get Rich or Die Tryin' " and "Hustle & Flow."
"We are delighted to recognize Howard's
"We are delighted to recognize Howard's
brilliant work. We expect to be announcing
him as the winner of a best actor award some
day." said WAFCA President Tim Gordon.
The organization also awarded the cast of
“Crash” its Best Ensemble award and
screenwriters Paul Haggis and Bobby
Moresco its Best Original Screenplay honor.
NBR, in addition to naming Howard its
NBR, in addition to naming Howard its
Breakthrough Artist, voted “Crash” among its
10 best films of the year, while “Hustle & Flow”
was selected in its unofficial secondary list
of best films under the category, “Special
Mention for Excellence in Filmmaking."
An NBR award ceremony will be held
An NBR award ceremony will be held
Jan. 10 at New York's Tavern on the Green,
with Paul Reiser serving as the emcee. The
LAFCA, which awarded Howard its “New
Generation” honor, will give out its 31st
annual achievement awards on Tuesday,
Jan. 17 at the Park Hyatt Hotel in Los Angeles.
As previously reported, the Broadcast Film
As previously reported, the Broadcast Film
Critics Association (BFCA) nominated Howard
for best actor (for “Hustle & Flow”), best
supporting actor (for “Crash”) and best song,
supporting actor (for “Crash”) and best song,
(for performing “Hustle & Flow’s” title track).
Howard’s “Crash” nomination was one of six the
BFCA gave to the film, including best picture.
So far, the New York Film Critics Circle
So far, the New York Film Critics Circle
and the Boston Society of Film Critics are the
only organizations to have completely shut
out Howard, “Hustle & Flow” and “Crash” in its
year end accolades, both of which were
announced Monday.
For a complete list of winners/nominees
announced Monday.
For a complete list of winners/nominees
among the various critics groups,
click on the Web sites below:
• Hollywood Foreign Press Assn (HFPA) –
click on the Web sites below:
• Hollywood Foreign Press Assn (HFPA) –
a.k.a. The Golden Globes -
http://www.hfpa.org/news/id/13
• Broadcast Film Critics Assn. (BFCA)
http://www.bfca.org/nomineesWinners.asp
• Los Angeles Film Critics Assn. (LAFCA)
http://www.lafca.net/Home/News/2005_lafca_awards_winners.html
• National Board of Review (NBR)
http://www.hfpa.org/news/id/13
• Broadcast Film Critics Assn. (BFCA)
http://www.bfca.org/nomineesWinners.asp
• Los Angeles Film Critics Assn. (LAFCA)
http://www.lafca.net/Home/News/2005_lafca_awards_winners.html
• National Board of Review (NBR)
http://www.nbrmp.org/awards/
• New York Film Critics Circle
• New York Film Critics Circle
http://www.nyfcc.com/2005awards.php
• Boston Society of Film Critics:
http://www.boston.com/ae/movies/articles/2005/12/12/boston_critics_name_brokeback_best_film/
• Boston Society of Film Critics:
http://www.boston.com/ae/movies/articles/2005/12/12/boston_critics_name_brokeback_best_film/
LATHAN REP DENIES TIFF WITH ‘ESSENCE’:
Actress was reportedly upset over
interview questions about alleged
interview questions about alleged
affair with Denzel.
*Lloyd Grove’s Lowdown column in the New
*Lloyd Grove’s Lowdown column in the New
York Daily News says its spies overheard
Sanaa Lathan ranting against Essence
magazine at two separate parties in Los
Angeles recently.
The talented actress was reportedly
The talented actress was reportedly
upset at Jeannine Amber, the writer of her
upcoming March 2006 cover story who
reportedly peppered her with questions
about a rumored affair and love child with
her “Out of Time” co-star Denzel Washington.
“She said she was extremely disappointed
“She said she was extremely disappointed
by ‘Essence,’” a source told the column. “She
would expect this behavior from a tabloid, not a
magazine that is supposed to celebrate black
magazine that is supposed to celebrate black
women.”
When Lowdown contacted Lathan’s camp
When Lowdown contacted Lathan’s camp
for a comment, her rep denied
that there was ever a problem.
"She's totally happy with the magazine,
that there was ever a problem.
"She's totally happy with the magazine,
and has no issues or concerns with them at
all," said Lathan's PR rep. "In the interview, the
rumors did come up, but they knew very well
she wasn't pregnant, and the question came
up in the context of how do such rumors affect
up in the context of how do such rumors affect
her life."
When Essence was contacted by
When Essence was contacted by
Lowdown, a spokeswoman for the magazine
affirmed the interpretation given by Lathan’s
affirmed the interpretation given by Lathan’s
camp.
"We're thrilled to have Sanaa Lathan
"We're thrilled to have Sanaa Lathan
grace our March cover, and in her first solo
cover for Essence," the rep said. "We've
had a wonderful experience for her and
her team."
Lathan’s cover story will coincide with
Lathan’s cover story will coincide with
the February release of her interracial
romantic comedy, "Something New."
In the film, Lathan stars as Kenya, a career
In the film, Lathan stars as Kenya, a career
woman who is looking for the perfect man to
settle down, but has a checklist of attributes
that are non-negotiable. To her shock and
dismay, she shares a mutual attraction with
Brian, a white man played by Simon Baker.
Brian, a white man played by Simon Baker.
The connection forces her to reevaluate her
own checklist and preconceived notions of
interracial romances.
JIMMY JAM SAYS ‘DO THE MATH,’ JANET
CAN’T HAVE SECRET CHILD: Also, singer
learns guitar, preps for film role opposite Culkin.
*“If Janet had a child 18 years ago, it
learns guitar, preps for film role opposite Culkin.
*“If Janet had a child 18 years ago, it
was while we were working on the ‘Control’
album. I would have known if she was pregnant,
and she wasn’t,” says Jimmy “Jam” Harris in
Fox.com’s 411’s column.
As previously reported, Jam and his partner
As previously reported, Jam and his partner
Terry Lewis are in the final stages of recording
Jackson’s new album, due in 2006. The set is
tipped to in some way pay tribute to their
tipped to in some way pay tribute to their
collective 1986 effort “Control,” which spawned
the classic singles and videos "Control,” “What
Have You Done for Me Lately?” and “Nasty Boys.”
With all of the hoopla and media attention
With all of the hoopla and media attention
surrounding the project, the producer says folks
would have certainly noticed if Jackson, who
was 19 and 20 during the “Control” era, had
a secret child whom she gave to her
sister Rebbie to raise as her own – as rumors
sister Rebbie to raise as her own – as rumors
have suggested.
Meanwhile, folks in the Janet camp tell
Meanwhile, folks in the Janet camp tell
Fox 411 that they’re hoping 2006 will treat the
singer in the kind way that 2005 welcomed
back Mariah Carey. According to the column,
Jackson has agreed to star in a new movie
called “Tennessee,” starring Macaulay Culkin
called “Tennessee,” starring Macaulay Culkin
and produced by Lee Daniels (“Monsters Ball”).
The movie, a road picture about two brothers, may
tie in with the new album, reports the column.
Also, Janet is taking a page from Madonna’s
Also, Janet is taking a page from Madonna’s
book and learning to play the guitar for the new
album. Jimmy Jam tells Fox 411’s Roger
Friedman that the singer is a “natural, it’s in
her genes” and that she’s picked up the
instrument instantly. Her “Tennessee” character
apparently plays the guitar as well,” Friedman adds.
T.O.’S BIRTHDAY PARTY DRAWS CELEBRITY
CROWD: Jay-Z’s 40-40 club hosts everyone from
Jamie Foxx, to Paris Hilton, to Jesse Jackson.
*Monday night at Jay-Z’s 40-40 club in
*Monday night at Jay-Z’s 40-40 club in
Atlantic City, ousted Philadelphia Eagle Terrell
Owens celebrated his 32nd birthday in a matter
befitting a player known for being flashy,
befitting a player known for being flashy,
flamboyant and over-the-top.
Boasting a guest list that included Jamie Foxx,
Boasting a guest list that included Jamie Foxx,
Will Smith, Paris Hilton, Jessica Simpson and
the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Owens worked the crowd
dressed in a crisp white suit after having arrived
dressed in a crisp white suit after having arrived
shortly before midnight.
"Everything's great. It's a party," he said
"Everything's great. It's a party," he said
while posing for pictures outside. "I have everything
I want. My mom's here." Neither he nor his agent,
Drew Rosenhaus, answered questions from
gathered reporters.
Former Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin,
Former Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin,
former Bears coach Mike Ditka, Redskins running
back Clinton Portis and Redskins wide receiver
Santana Moss were also invited. Ravens linebacker
Santana Moss were also invited. Ravens linebacker
Ray Lewis was a surprise name on the list — he
and Owens feuded last year when Owens spurned
a trade from San Francisco to Baltimore.
After Irvin led the crowd in singing "Happy
After Irvin led the crowd in singing "Happy
Birthday," Owens told the attendees: "I'm still a
Philadelphia Eagle until the end of the year. I love
Philly, I love my teammates and thank you to
Philly, I love my teammates and thank you to
everybody who came here tonight and showed
me their love." He added: "I ain't ever going to
let anyone change me. I will be back."
Jevon Kearse and Lito Sheppard were among
Jevon Kearse and Lito Sheppard were among
the 11 Eagles who had arrived at the party by 11:15.
By one count, there were 19 Eagles in the
spot, including players on injured reserve and the
spot, including players on injured reserve and the
practice squad. T.O.’s nemesis Donovan McNabb
was invited to the soiree, but didn't show up. The
injured quarterback and Owens have been on the
injured quarterback and Owens have been on the
outs since the Eagles lost to New England in the
Super Bowl last February.
Scantily clad women wearing different colored
Scantily clad women wearing different colored
No. 81 jerseys with question marks representing the
team name provided some of the entertainment. The
party invitations, which were shaped like a penalty
flag, arrived last week with the message: "There's
a flag on the play? After further review, No. 81 is
at it again."
T.O.'s actual birthday was on Dec. 7.
T.O.'s actual birthday was on Dec. 7.
BERRY SHARES DETAILS OF HER DIABETIC
COMA: Actress talks about traumatic experience
in 1989 with London paper.
*Halle Berry told London’s Daily Mail newspaper
*Halle Berry told London’s Daily Mail newspaper
about the moment her Type 2 diabetes reared its
ugly head in 1989, when she was filming the TV
show “Living Dolls.”
"I felt tired but couldn't take a breather. I felt
show “Living Dolls.”
"I felt tired but couldn't take a breather. I felt
I needed energy but I didn't even have a minute
to pop out and get a chocolate bar," she
told the newspaper. "I felt more and more tired
told the newspaper. "I felt more and more tired
and one day I passed out and I didn't wake up
for seven days which is obviously very serious."
After receiving her diagnosis, doctors told her
After receiving her diagnosis, doctors told her
to change her diet and start a regular exercise
routine.
"They told me I might lose my eyesight, or I
"They told me I might lose my eyesight, or I
could lose my legs," she says of the doctors' diagnosis.
"I was scared to death, I thought I was
going to die."
The “X-Men” star also began testing her
going to die."
The “X-Men” star also began testing her
blood sugar levels twice a day and injecting
herself with insulin.
"Because no one expects you to be doing it,
"Because no one expects you to be doing it,
no one really notices.” she said of her daily injections.
The Oscar-winning actress has since
The Oscar-winning actress has since
become a proud spokesperson for a Type 2
Diabetes awareness campaign, which urges
those who are overweight and have a family
history of the disease to get a blood test.
BOW WOW, CIARA, OMARION, MARQUES,
BROWN TEAM FOR TOUR: Youngsters hit
the road for the holidays.
*Bow Wow, Omarion, Ciara, Marques
*Bow Wow, Omarion, Ciara, Marques
Houston and Chris Brown will team later this
month for a quick eight-date tour through the U.S.
The crew of hip hop and R&B artists will
The crew of hip hop and R&B artists will
launch the trek Dec. 22 outside of Chicago and
will travel through the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic
regions before wrapping things up in Atlanta on
regions before wrapping things up in Atlanta on
New Year's Day. (See full itinerary below.)
Yesterday, Bow Wow released a revamped
Yesterday, Bow Wow released a revamped
version of his Jermaine Dupri-produced set
"Wanted." Billed as The Ultimate Collector's
Edition, “Wanted (Reloaded)” includes a
DualDisc DVD that will feature a mini-movie
dubbed "Big Dreams," as well as music
dubbed "Big Dreams," as well as music
videos for "Fresh Azmiz," "Caviar" (featuring
Snoop Dogg) and "Like You" (featuring Ciara).
Here is the tour itinerary:
December 2005
22 - Rosemont, IL - Allstate Arena
23 - Detroit, MI - Joe Louis Arena
26 - Boston, MA - TD Banknorth Garden
27 - Philadelphia, PA - Wachovia Spectrum
28 - Baltimore, MD - 1st Mariner Arena
29 - Washington, DC - MCI Center
30 - New York, NY - Madison Square Garden
January 2006
1 - Atlanta, GA - Philips Arena
Here is the tour itinerary:
December 2005
22 - Rosemont, IL - Allstate Arena
23 - Detroit, MI - Joe Louis Arena
26 - Boston, MA - TD Banknorth Garden
27 - Philadelphia, PA - Wachovia Spectrum
28 - Baltimore, MD - 1st Mariner Arena
29 - Washington, DC - MCI Center
30 - New York, NY - Madison Square Garden
January 2006
1 - Atlanta, GA - Philips Arena
VH1 DEVELOPS THIRD REALITY SHOW
STARRING FLAV: ‘Flavor of Love’ gives 20
women a chance to be rapper’s true boo.
*Imagine ABC’s “The Bachelor” – but with
women a chance to be rapper’s true boo.
*Imagine ABC’s “The Bachelor” – but with
Flavor Flav as the star. VH1 has turned the
starling concept into a very real reality series
premiering Jan. 1 at 10 p.m., titled, “Flavor of Love.”
Twenty single women from all walks of
Twenty single women from all walks of
life, selected for their expressed love for Flav,
will move into a "phat crib" in Los Angeles and vie
for his affection. With help and advice from Big
for his affection. With help and advice from Big
Rick, Flav's gigantic body-guard and chauffeur,
Flav will date all of the women, weed out the
ones who are only after his fame and fortune,
and in the end will choose his one
true love.
Brigitte “Geetay” Nielson, his “Strange
true love.
Brigitte “Geetay” Nielson, his “Strange
Love” and “Surreal Life 3” crush, is not one of
the contestants. However, she will appear on
one of the episodes giving the ladies a lie-
detector test. Another episode features the
contestants competing in a cooking challenge
contestants competing in a cooking challenge
and being judged by Flav’s own mother.
Plus, there will be several other surprises
Plus, there will be several other surprises
throughout the ten-part series, including clock
ceremonies, dates at Red Lobster, and a new
set of gold teeth signifying true love.
The series can also be seen on VH1.com
The series can also be seen on VH1.com
at "The VSpot" on Dec. 25.
TOM JOYNER HONORS PRYOR ON RADIO
SHOW: Web site offers highlights from
Monday’s show.
*Tom Joyner, the nationally syndicated radio
Monday’s show.
*Tom Joyner, the nationally syndicated radio
and TV personality, devoted segments of his
radio show to remember Richard Pryor, and offered
words of remembrance in the following statement:
"Now that he's passed on a lot of people
words of remembrance in the following statement:
"Now that he's passed on a lot of people
will start reflecting on his comedy, but I don't
think most black people ever stopped. Richard
Pryor's comedy represented a measure of
Pryor's comedy represented a measure of
freedom for black people because he talked
about things black people rarely talked about
in mixed company. It's one thing to joke about
white people and black/white relationships in an
all black setting, it's another thing to do it in a
mixed audience or on national TV. After he did
it, all black comedians started doing it.
"I think most people know where they were
"I think most people know where they were
when they heard their first Richard Pryor album.
If you were underage, you probably had a cool
uncle or older sibling that let you listen if you
promised not to tell your parents.
"His comedy, his phrases, and his punch lines
"His comedy, his phrases, and his punch lines
are a part of Black American life. A lot of people
quote things Richard Pryor has said and don't even
realize where it came from like "What kind of name
is that for an N Word?" Or "What's wrong with
your natural?
“Everybody black or white could relate to
“Everybody black or white could relate to
his stories and the characters he portrayed.
By pointing out our differences, he actually
pointed out a lot of our similarities and I
pointed out a lot of our similarities and I
guess that was the genius of his comedy.
"Even though I knew the day was coming,
"Even though I knew the day was coming,
as it is when anyone you love dies, you're never
ready for it when it actually happens. It caught
me off guard and I had to figure out the right
time to announce it as I hosted an audience
of 10,000 at a Christmas concert in Detroit.
"Richard Pryor's death reminds me of how
"Richard Pryor's death reminds me of how
important it is to support the entertainers we
really love. So many people will regret never
having had a chance to see him perform live.
I won't have that regret. I saw Ali box, I saw
Luther Vandross and the Queen of Soul perform
live and I saw Richard Pryor do his thing at the
Comedy Store in Hollywood. And just like
everyone else there; I memorized everything
he said and repeated it back to the first
person I saw."
For highlights of the show and to read
person I saw."
For highlights of the show and to read
more about Pryor, go to BlackAmericaWeb.com
A HORDE OF STARS TO CELEBRATE
WARWICK: Stevie, Gladys, Smokey, Jill Scott
among bevy of entertainers tapped for tribute.
*Everybody and their mama is coming out to
among bevy of entertainers tapped for tribute.
*Everybody and their mama is coming out to
participate in the celebrity-filled tribute special,
“Dionne Warwick: 45th Anniversary Spectacular,”
which will tape Jan. 26 at the Kodak Theater
in Hollywood for broadcast at a later date.
Among the gospel, R&B and pop stars
Among the gospel, R&B and pop stars
confirmed to perform are (alphabetically):
Yolanda Adams, Ashford & Simpson, Vanessa
Bell-Armstrong, Shirley Caesar, Richard Carpenter,
Deborah Cox, Andre Crouch, Sandra Crouch, The
Emotions, Gloria Estefan, Edwin Hawkins,
Lynette Hawkins, Tramaine Hawkins, Walter
Hawkins, Cissy Houston, Olivia Newton-John,
Kashif, Gladys Knight, Gerald Levert, Mary Mary,
Donnie McClurkin, Brian McKnight, Mya,
Milton Nascimento, The O'Jays, Jeffrey Osborne,
Milton Nascimento, The O'Jays, Jeffrey Osborne,
Della Reese, Sir Cliff Richard, Smokey Robinson,
Jill Scott, Richard Smallwood, The Spinners, Candi
Staton, Angie Stone, B.J. Thomas, Leslie Uggams,
Dee Dee Warwick, Nancy Wilson, BeBe Winans,
Cece Winans and Stevie Wonder.
The extravaganza, in honor of Warwick’s 45-
The extravaganza, in honor of Warwick’s 45-
year career that spawned over 60 Top 100
records, is being produced by Liza Minelli’s
ex-husband, David Gest.
"I'm overwhelmed by the response of so
"I'm overwhelmed by the response of so
many artists who will participate in this all-star
salute,” he said in a statement. "I have a lot of
surprises planned for this evening and more
than 100 stars from the recording, film, television
and sports industries are already confirmed in
the audience. This is going to be a very special
night for Dionne and I am very proud to be a part
of this television special."
There will also be a segment with Warwick
There will also be a segment with Warwick
performing for the first time with all of the
legendary composers of her many hit tunes,
including songwriters Burt Bacharach and Hal
David, Thom Bell, Isaac Hayes,
Holland-Dozier-Holland and Richard Kerr.
Tickets for the public are $65.00, $95.00,
Holland-Dozier-Holland and Richard Kerr.
Tickets for the public are $65.00, $95.00,
$125.00, $150.00 and are available at all
Ticketmaster outlets by calling 1-213-480-3232
ANANDA, TARAJI TO HOST MULTICULTURAL
PRISM AWARDS: Singleton, Farrah Gray,
Kellita, Vivica among honorees.
*Ananda Lewis (NBC's "The Insider"), and
Kellita, Vivica among honorees.
*Ananda Lewis (NBC's "The Insider"), and
Taraji Henson (“Hustle & Flow”) will host the
10th Anniversary of the Multicultural Prism
Awards, to be held tomorrow (Dec. 15) at
the Universal City Hilton Hotel (555 Universal
Hollywood Dr. Universal City, CA).
Celebrities and musicians will be presenting
Hollywood Dr. Universal City, CA).
Celebrities and musicians will be presenting
awards to such honorees as Vivica A. Fox,
John Singleton, Jimmy Smits, Naveen Andrews,
Vanessa Marcil, Kellita Smith, Constance Marie,
Mike Tyson, Farrah Gray, Joe Jackson, Edgar
Zamora, Verena Mei, Philip Hart and Robert
Blackwell, among others.
The show will feature performances by
Tyrese, Elise Neal, dancers from the hit movie
"RIZE," the opera of Three Mo' Tenors, gospel
artists William Murphy and Vicki Yohe, Latin
sensation Serralde, Lorenzo Owens of Oprah's
Pop Star Challenge, hip hop artist Jin, and others.
Celebrities expected to attend include:
Celebrities expected to attend include:
Anthony Anderson, Nona Gaye, Angela Bassett,
Golden Brooks, Tracey Ellis Ross, Ludacris,
Warren G, Orlando Jones, Adrianne Curry and
Christopher Knight, Cris Judd, Page Kennedy
(Desperate Housewives), Kristoff St. John,
Casts of the "Bernie Mac Show" and "Everybody
Hates Chris", Bokeem Woodbine (“Ray”), Shawn
Pyfrom (“Desperate Housewives”), Dorian Gregory
(“Charmed”), James Lesure (“Las Vegas”), Bree
Turner (“Masters of Horror”), Sprague Grayden
(“Over There”), Ralph Tresvant (New Edition),
Kaylee DeFer (“The War at Home”) and Jaime
Gomez (“Training Day”).
This star-studded celebration will benefit
Gomez (“Training Day”).
This star-studded celebration will benefit
displaced children through the Katrina Missing
Children's Coalition. This year's theme, "Tragedy
to Triumph...Hollywood Cares" aims to support
those affected by the physical and economic
devastation caused by hurricane Katrina. In
addition, a portion of the proceeds will benefit
victims of Hurricane Katrina. Proceeds from
charitable donations will be used to help
displaced children and minority business
owners rebuild and reclaim their businesses.
The awards gala will celebrate and honor
The awards gala will celebrate and honor
outstanding artists, entrepreneurs, business
leaders, and corporations who set trends, make
history and act as ambassadors in their
history and act as ambassadors in their
businesses and communities.
RAY CHARLES TOPS VH1 ANNUAL POLL
Late entertainer’s last album still in
demand according to survey.
*Ray Charles has again placed first in a
demand according to survey.
*Ray Charles has again placed first in a
VH1 telephone poll of 1000 music lovers from
the ages of 20-49 who were asked to name
the artists at the top of their wish lists this
holiday season.
The late singer’s "Genius and Friends"
The late singer’s "Genius and Friends"
album, which also topped VH1’s 2004 poll,
ranked No. 1 in this year’s survey, followed
by Alicia Keys’ “Unplugged” at No. 2 and
Santana’s “All That I Am” at No. 3.
This year marked the first time that
This year marked the first time that
Stevie Wonder made the list, with his new
album "A Time To Love" placing fourth. Mariah
Carey’s "The Platinum Edition - The Emancipation
Of Mimi" ranked No. 6 and the Black Eyed Peas’
“Monkey Business” placed eighth.
Here are other findings in the VH1 poll:
• The top CD for men was Ray Charles' "Genius
Here are other findings in the VH1 poll:
• The top CD for men was Ray Charles' "Genius
& Friends" while women chose
Alicia Keys' "Unplugged."
• Eminem's "Curtain Call" was the No. 1 CD in
Alicia Keys' "Unplugged."
• Eminem's "Curtain Call" was the No. 1 CD in
this year's poll among 20-29s.
• The top 10 rankings were similar regionally.
• The top 10 rankings were similar regionally.
Ray Charles' "Genius & Friends" was No. 1 for
the Northeast and the South while Alicia Keys'
"Unplugged" took the top slot for the Midwest
"Unplugged" took the top slot for the Midwest
and Santana's "All That I Am" was No. 1 for
the West.
MUSIC BITS: Prince’s video; Seal’s diet; Macy
Gray ‘Punk’d.’
*On Tuesday, VH1 and its affiliated
*On Tuesday, VH1 and its affiliated
networks, including Tempo and VH1 Soul,
premiered Prince’s new video, "Te Amo
Corazon (I Love You Sweetheart)," directed
by Salma Hayek. "Salma heard the song and
came up with the original concept," Prince said
of the actress in a statement. "Salma is
the most thoughtful, attentive director I have
ever worked with. An absolute joy." The song,
a single from the singer’s forthcoming Universal
album “3121,” – due early next year – is also
album “3121,” – due early next year – is also
available on VH1’s Vspot broadband channel
and VH1 Mobile.
*British singer and new daddy Seal keeps
*British singer and new daddy Seal keeps
himself physically fit by sticking to a diet that
prohibits him from eating any food after 2 p.m.
His wife, German supermodel Heidi Klum,
thinks the regiment is – to borrow words from
his famous song – a little crazy. "He only eats
until two o'clock, whatever he wants, and then
he doesn't eat anything anymore,” Klum said,
according to Contact Music. "That does not
according to Contact Music. "That does not
work for me! At night I'm like stuffing my face
and he's (salivating). Sometimes there's an
exception here and there, but really he's very
strict and two o'clock and afterwards he
doesn't eat anymore.”
*Macy Gray’s upcoming episode of “Punk’d”
doesn't eat anymore.”
*Macy Gray’s upcoming episode of “Punk’d”
may go down as a classic. The singer got upset
after she arrived at her Macy Gray Music Academy
in Los Angeles to find that the building was
covered with a tent. She became really upset
when fake officials there told her that the walls
were contaminated with black mold, and posed
a danger to the young children who had enrolled
there. She grew even more upset when a potential
investor decided against putting $250,000 behind
the project when he learned of the problem. But
Macy went completely nuts and began cursing
out the foreman of the site after realizing the workers
had arrived at the wrong address. She didn’t calm
down until she realized that Ashton Kutcher was
behind the whole thing.
FILM/TV BITS: ‘Lackawanna’ awarded; EWF
on ice; TV One hires exec; Tyra’s first kiss;
Hounsou’s ‘Diamond’; ‘Miami Vice’ trailer.
*The National Board of Review has
*The National Board of Review has
selected "Lackawanna Blues" as best
film or miniseries made for cable TV. Also,
film or miniseries made for cable TV. Also,
the socially relevant documentary "The Untold
Story of Emmett Louis Till" earned NBR’s special
recognition for films that reflect freedom of
recognition for films that reflect freedom of
expression.
*Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Earth
*Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Earth
Wind & Fire will appear with Olympic and World
figure skating champions for the television special,
“McCormick Presents Earth Wind & Fire Tribute
on Ice,” airing Saturday (Dec. 17) from 4-6 p.m.
on NBC. The unique program features “the elements”
performing 20 songs as skaters interpret the
performing 20 songs as skaters interpret the
music on the ice. Among the participating
skaters are 1988 Olympic Champion Brian
Boitano, two-time Olympic Silver Medalist
Brian Orser and Olympic Bronze Medalist Jozef
Sabovcik.
*TV One has hired Rose Catherine Pinkney
Sabovcik.
*TV One has hired Rose Catherine Pinkney
as its executive vp programming, production
and development. She will be tasked with
leading the cable channel's first efforts in scripted
programming. As former senior vp comedy
development at Paramount Network Television,
Pinkney has extensive experience developing
comedies, including "Girlfriends," "Becker"
and "Andy Richter Controls the Universe." Before
Paramount, where she started in 1995,
she also developed primetime scripted
she also developed primetime scripted
programming at Uptown Entertainment and
20th Century Fox Television.
*Tyra Banks was surprised on her show by
*Tyra Banks was surprised on her show by
the first boy she kissed. Chris Bravo, who
was 16 when he planted one on the former
supermodel, told Banks of the memory: “I just
remember I was very excited.” Banks, however,
was not as enthused. “You know you broke my
was not as enthused. “You know you broke my
heart,” she said. “You so left me for Sabrina, the
girl that lived across the street from the school."
Adding insult to injury, Tyra dissed his kissing
Adding insult to injury, Tyra dissed his kissing
style, saying: "The tongue
was a little too much."
*Filming on the Djimon Hounsou film “The
was a little too much."
*Filming on the Djimon Hounsou film “The
Blood Diamond’ will begin Feb. 4 on the coast
of South Africa's southeastern KwaZulu-Natal
province, which will double for the film’s actual
setting in the west African state of Sierra Leone.
Directed by Ed Zwick, the story is set in 1999,
a time when the nation was in the midst of a
horrific civil war. Leonardo DiCaprio plays a
smuggler who specializes in the sale of "blood
diamonds," also known as "conflict diamonds,"
which were used to finance rebellions, privateers and
terrorists. When the smuggler encounters an
terrorists. When the smuggler encounters an
indigenous Mende farmer (Hounsou) whose
young son has disappeared into the RUF's army
of child soldiers, the two men's fates become linked.
*Universal Pictures has released the teaser
*Universal Pictures has released the teaser
trailer for Jamie Foxx’s upcoming film “Miami
Vice” at BacardiLive.com. The studio has also
launched the film's official website, which offers
more details about the story and computer
wallpaper. The Michael Mann-directed film,
starring Foxx and current rehab resident Colin
Farrell in a remake of the hit TV series, opens
July 28, 2006.
HOLIDAY-THEMED TV VIEWING: Mariah
and Mary J. in Times Square gigs for separate
networks; Black Family Channel locked and
loaded with Xmas fare.
*Mariah Carey will make history on Dick
*Mariah Carey will make history on Dick
Clark’s “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” this month
as the first scheduled performer in the event’s
history to perform live in Times Square. “Mimi”
will join Hilary Duff, Sean Paul and the Pussycat
Dolls in ringing in the New Year from New York
and Los Angeles. The ABC show faces stiff
R&B competition from…
*"NBC's “New Year's Eve With Carson Daly,”
*"NBC's “New Year's Eve With Carson Daly,”
which has just announced that Grammy-winner
Mary J. Blige will also perform live from Times
Square, on a special “Chevy” stage named for
the show’s main sponsor. "A live performance
by New York native Mary J. Blige is the perfect
addition to our New Year’s Eve line up," said Daly.
“The combination of her incredible music and the
excitement of hundreds of thousands of people in
the heart of Times Square is the perfect way to
celebrate the New Year.”
*As previously reported, MTV’s New Year’s
*As previously reported, MTV’s New Year’s
Eve special will feature Kanye West, Common
Young Jeezy, Maroon 5's Adam Levine and
Common among its performance lineup. The
music channel’s 14th annual New Year's Eve
broadcast begins at 10:30 p.m. ET, with Run-
broadcast begins at 10:30 p.m. ET, with Run-
DMC.'s Rev. Run tipped to make
an appearance.
*Encore showings of “A B5 Christmas
an appearance.
*Encore showings of “A B5 Christmas
Special” will air throughout the rest of the
month. On the special, the Bad Boy
Entertainment heart throbs share their most
memorable holiday moments, home video
footage, favorite videos and unwrap a few
special surprises for their favorite fans. Check
your local cable guide for channel listings,
repeat airdates and show times, or visit
www.blackfamilychannel.com.
*During the entire month of December,
*During the entire month of December,
the Black Family Channel will feature jingle
jams, Christmas movies and holiday cartoons.
• Beginning today at 9:30 p.m. (EST), enjoy
• Beginning today at 9:30 p.m. (EST), enjoy
Micah's Christmas Treasure, an animated
movie about a young boy in search of wealth
for his poor family.
• On Thursday, at 9 p.m. (EST), watch back-
• On Thursday, at 9 p.m. (EST), watch back-
to-back holiday animations. First is It's Christmas
Dr. Joe!, a wonderful special about a group of
displaced children in search of the true
meaning of Christmas followed by Spunky's
First Christmas - a story about a young
First Christmas - a story about a young
puppy who gets lost and separated
from his family during Christmas time.
• Airing Monday, Dec. 19 at 10:00 p.m. (EST)
from his family during Christmas time.
• Airing Monday, Dec. 19 at 10:00 p.m. (EST)
is Gary's Gift III, a soul-filled Christmas
celebration featuring live performances from
R&B legends.
• Come together again with your family and
• Come together again with your family and
closest friends on Tuesday, December 20 at
9:00 p.m. (EST) to watch the 1980 drama, A
Christmas without Snow.
• On Thursday, Dec. 22 beginning at 8:00 p.m.
• On Thursday, Dec. 22 beginning at 8:00 p.m.
(EST), catch more back-to-back holiday
animations on Black Family Channel. True
Christmas, examines the contrast between a
wealthy and powerful ruler and the coming of
Jesus followed by Alabaster's Song - a story
about an angel atop a Christmas tree that
comes to life and recounts the story of Bethlehem.
BROADWAY BITS: ‘Color Purple’ box office
BROADWAY BITS: ‘Color Purple’ box office
still rising; August Wilson theater sets record;
hip hop-tinged ‘Seven Against Thebes’ set to open.
*A boost in ticket sales among the majority
*A boost in ticket sales among the majority
of Broadway’s 30 shows, including “The Color
Purple,” helped push total grosses from $976,231
to $19,029,206 for the holiday season. “The
Color Purple” in particular had one of Broadway’s
biggest box office leaps – up $291,850 to $869,119 –
thanks in large part to the public cheerleading of
its main producer, Oprah Winfrey.
*"Jersey Boys," a musical biography of
*"Jersey Boys," a musical biography of
the Four Seasons playing at the newly-renamed
August Wilson theater, took in $817,500 last
week, which broke the house record at the venue.
*“The Seven,” a hip hop version of Aeschylus'
*“The Seven,” a hip hop version of Aeschylus'
“Seven Against Thebes,” begins its run at the
New York Theatre Workshop on Jan. 18, 2006.
Bill T. Jones provides choreography for the work,
Bill T. Jones provides choreography for the work,
which is directed and developed by Jo Bonney.
The story follows the struggles of Eteocles
The story follows the struggles of Eteocles
and Polynices, the two sons of the cursed King
Oedipus, as they fight for the throne of Thebes."
Will Power wrote and composed the tale —
entirely in rhyming verse — which interweaves
"such musical styles as calypso, doo-wop, R&B,
funk and blues."
Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Dec. 15) for
Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Dec. 15) for
performances through March 12. The New York
Theatre Workshop is located at 79 East Fourth
St., (between Bowery and Second Ave.).
Tickets can be purchased at the box office or
by calling (212) 239-6200. For more information,
visit www.nytw.org.
PACERS GIVE ARTEST EARLY CHRISTMAS
GIFT: Team will grant his wish to be traded.
*After stunning the Indiana Pacers
*After stunning the Indiana Pacers
organization by telling a local newspaper that he
wants to be traded, star forward Ron Artest got
what he wanted Tuesday, as the team agreed
to turn him loose.
"I do think it is a time to kind of break apart
"I do think it is a time to kind of break apart
and see if he can get a new start somewhere
else," team president Donnie Walsh told
reporters in Indianapolis. "I think that it is
important for us to put our past behind
us and stop these distractions.”
Artest became the poster boy for the
us and stop these distractions.”
Artest became the poster boy for the
player/fan brawl that erupted last year during a
game in Detroit. Suspended for most of the
2004 season following the melee, Artest
returned to the team for the current season, but
has not been happy.
He told The Indianapolis Star that he
has not been happy.
He told The Indianapolis Star that he
disliked playing for Pacers coach Rick Carlisle
and said he could not reach his potential with
the team. After a meeting with Artest on Monday,
Walsh said he would seek a trade for the
26-year-old player. In the meantime, Artest
will no longer practice or play with the team
but will continue to receive a paycheck.
Artest was the team's second-leading
Artest was the team's second-leading
scorer, averaging 19.4 points per game.
BUSH SAYS RACE NOT A FACTOR IN
KATRINA RESPONSE: ‘You can call me
anything you want, but do not call me a
racist,’ he said Monday.
*After receiving an all-access pass Monday
*After receiving an all-access pass Monday
to shadow President Bush during his pro-war
campaign in Philly, “NBC Nightly News” anchor
Brian Williams took the opportunity to get some
answers on the race issue surrounding
Hurricane Katrina.
"I heard, you know, a couple of people
"I heard, you know, a couple of people
say ... 'Bush didn't respond because of race—
because he's a racist,' or alleged that," Bush
told Williams, alluding to Kanye West’s
infamous “George Bush doesn’t care about
black people” statement.
"That is absolutely wrong. And I — I
black people” statement.
"That is absolutely wrong. And I — I
reject that,” he said. "You can call me anything
you want, but do not call me a racist. Secondly,
this storm hit — all up and down (the Gulf). It
hit New Orleans. It hit Mississippi, too."
After seeing televised pictures of mostly
After seeing televised pictures of mostly
African American faces suffering in shelters
around New Orleans following the Aug. 29 hurricane,
Bush said his first thought was that there was a
Bush said his first thought was that there was a
breakdown of communications among all levels
of government.
"I was appalled that a nation as wealthy as
"I was appalled that a nation as wealthy as
ours was not able to respond as effectively as
we should have and took blame for it," Bush said.
"I mean, to the extent that the federal government
was ineffective, I'm responsible. And I understand
that. And now the question is: How do we learn
lessons from the response?"
In admitting that federal authorities and other
lessons from the response?"
In admitting that federal authorities and other
levels of the government "fell down on the job,"
Bush said he was "disturbed" by the lack
of communications immediately after the storm
of communications immediately after the storm
hit.
"My reaction was, where's the communications?"
"My reaction was, where's the communications?"
Bush said, adding that officials on the scene should
have been able to relay information back to
Washington to coordinate an appropriate response.
Washington to coordinate an appropriate response.
EUR MOTIVATIONAL NOTE
The 5 Stages of Grief were defined by Elisabeth
Kubler-Ross in her book "On Death and Dying."
The 5 Stages define the process a bereaved
person must go through in order to resolve
their grief. Grief is a complicated, multi-
dimensional and individual process that
can never be "one size fits all." The five stages are:
Denial (this isn't happening to me!)
Anger (why is this happening to me?)
Bargaining (I promise I'll be a better person if...)
Depression (I don't care anymore)
Acceptance (I'm ready for whatever comes)
When divorce or a breakup happens, it is
Denial (this isn't happening to me!)
Anger (why is this happening to me?)
Bargaining (I promise I'll be a better person if...)
Depression (I don't care anymore)
Acceptance (I'm ready for whatever comes)
When divorce or a breakup happens, it is
still a loss even though someone didn't die. You
will still go through a grief process to heal. In
my "How to Love with a Smart Heart"
relationships seminars and my grief seminars
"New Chapters," I share the following 5 stages
of grief women and men go through when a
breakup or divorce happens:
Denial - Oh, he/she will call --- he/she is just
busy---we've been too together so long --- it
can't be over --- I don't "see" any red flags.
Anger - how dare he/she do this to me! - -- after
Anger - how dare he/she do this to me! - -- after
all I've given and sacrificed.
Who does he think he is? I feel like a fool! I want
Who does he think he is? I feel like a fool! I want
revenge. I want him/her to hurt like I hurt.
Bargaining - Can't we at least be friends? --- ok I'll
Bargaining - Can't we at least be friends? --- ok I'll
do whatever you want.
Depression - I can't breathe - I can't get up - I'm
Depression - I can't breathe - I can't get up - I'm
staring at the phone, I can't eat - I can't think -
what did I do wrong? - what's wrong with me?
Acceptance - My faith, self-esteem and courage
Acceptance - My faith, self-esteem and courage
are restored. Sometimes you love and sometimes
you learn. Even though it hurts so bad, I must
remember that everyone hurts in some way. I
don't have to live like a victim. My emotional
maturity happens when I learn to live with
some unanswered questions. It is -- what it
is - -- and I'm ready to get back into life. I will
not let these negative fears and emotions ruin
and control my life. I still may have some hard
days ahead but I will rise above this. I can't
control what others do or feel but I can control
control what others do or feel but I can control
how I respond to this closing chapter in my life
story. I'm taking my power and self- respect
back. Better days are ahead. Peace and joy
are important for my healing. I deserve more
and I'm ready to let the light back into my life.
I am a beautiful, whole, divine and precious
child of God. I'm a good person and I
won't let this experience hurt me anymore
won't let this experience hurt me anymore
because I see now --- that what I thought was
rejection --- is really God's protection ---
leading me in a new direction. Hallelujah!!!!!
"It don't hurt anymore. All my teardrops are
leading me in a new direction. Hallelujah!!!!!
"It don't hurt anymore. All my teardrops are
dried. No more walkin' the floor with that burnin'
inside -- just to think it could be. Time has opened
the door and at last I am free. I don't hurt
the door and at last I am free. I don't hurt
anymore. No use to deny I wanted to die the
day you said we were through. But now that I
find you're out of my mind, I can't believe that
it's true. I've forgotten somehow that I cared
so before and it's wonderful now I don't hurt anymore"
- "I Don't Hurt Anymore," a song by Martina McBride
- "I Don't Hurt Anymore," a song by Martina McBride
CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS
Dec. 14: Pop singer Joyce Vincent-
Dec. 14: Pop singer Joyce Vincent-
Wilson (Tony Orlando and Dawn) is 59.
WEBSITE OF THE WEEK
Get unusual fashion tips, gossip and crazy
Get unusual fashion tips, gossip and crazy
style disasters seen on the streets of Atlanta
at: www.bellachicshop.blogspot.com
Submit your favorite web site to us along
Submit your favorite web site to us along
with a 15-20 word (or less) description to
info@eurweb.com.
BLACK HISTORY
Dec. 14, 1915: Jack Johnson becomes world
Dec. 14, 1915: Jack Johnson becomes world
heavy weight boxing champion.
(Source: www.BlackFacts.com)
=========================
EUR FEEDBACK (MYfeedback@eurweb.com)
*Charles L. Freeman, Los Angeles, CA:
"Steven Ivory's (12-13-05 EUR) column,
as it often does, made me stop and think
back to the prime of Richard Pryor.
Now, I never saw Red Fox, Dick
Gregory or others of that era in concert
or in a club but I did see Richard Pryor
and he was without a doubt, the greatest
comedian I've ever seen or heard. Richard
could do it all; standup, records, concerts,
movies, etc.
Most people don't know that he was
supposed to star in 'Blazing Saddles' (he
co-wrote the script) but couldn't be insured
by the studio leading the way for Cleavon
Little's triumphant turn as 'Sheriff Bart.'
My last thought on Richard Pryor - it was
my senior year in high school (1973) and my
boy Bobby Lott and I were on our way to work
on North Island Naval Station in San Diego.
I was driving my '67 VW fastback and we
were listening to the 8-track of Pryor's
'Craps After Hours' which we had 'borrowed'
from Bobby's older brother George. We
were laughing so hard that I had to pull
over and park to keep from running
off the freeway.
Rest in peace Richard Pryor; the
best there ever was, the best there
ever will be."
*Steve McGill (no city given):
"Open letter to Darryl James’ 'THE
BRIDGE: The Open Door.' (12-13-05 EUR).
You started your column with intriguing
ideas … then took a sharp turn into
the 'Twilight Zone.'
Why did you attack the Wayans and
Ving Rhames for stating a truth, be it an
ugly truth? Whatever you feel personally
about Stepin’ Fetchit ('prideless bastard?!'
Damn bruh), acknowledge that he actually
DID open positive doors for HIS era. Yes,
there are many examples of 'proud' independent
Black American cinema in the early 20th century
but how much of it is remembered or even
preserved today? Hardly NONE because
it was outside the Hollywood machine.
To bust the machine you have to get
within it, by your own example of 'following
the program of Jews in Hollywood -- own as
much as possible and smash everything that
has the potential to make you look bad.'
Blacks didn’t have the money to own
anything in Hollywood so we had to
conquer it the down & dirty way.
Bert Williams & George Walker were
the some of the HIGHEST PAID PERFORMERS
IN AMERICA in the early 1900s with Broadway
shows called 'Two Real Coons.' Bert Williams
himself made it all the way to the famous
'Ziegfield Follies.' He’s considered a Black
Charlie Chaplin and a cornerstone in Black
comedy & film … although he danced around
in blackface & shuffled for laughs. Painful relics
they may be to our tastes today, don’t front like
these brothers didn’t open doors & set the
stage for the next evolution of Black actor.
From Josephine Baker to Halle Berry … from
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