More Reservations & Signings

Montana Artists has signed first AD Serta "Laz" Lazarovits ("The Frozen Ground"), production designer Alan Bainee ("Burglars"), d.p. Cameron Duncan ("Southland") and costume designer Kim Wilcox ("Nobody Walks").Montana reserved producers Sophistication Gilroy on CW's "First Cut" and Paul Marks with an untitled Shaun Eastin work for USA professional producer Tim Coddington with an R&D period for Disney's "Matterhorn" co-producers Darlene Cass on John Putch's "Atlas Shrugged Part Two" and Darren Demetre on Sofia Coppola's "The Jewelry Ring" and UPM's Cecilia Kate Roque, on CBS' "Golden Boy," Michele Greco on NBC's "Chicago Fire" and Buddy Enright on Mikael Hafstrom's "The Tomb."Montana reserved d.p.'s Feliks Parnell on NBC's "County," Jerzy Zielinski on CBS' "Basic Level,Inch Attila Szalay, on CW's "The Choice,Inch Jamie Barber on USA's "Covert Matters," Craig Donlevy on Syfy's "Haven," John Rutland on Eduardo Sanchez's "Is available" and Lloyd Ahern on Lifetime's "Drop Dead Diva." Agency reserved first AD's ABC's "Gilded Lillys," Louis Guerra on CBS' "Elementary" and Phil Patterson on NBC's "The Frontier."Montana reserved production designers John D. Kretschmer on NBC's "Chicago Fire," Christopher Nowak on ABC's "666 Park Ave," Shaun Knipp on ABC's "Nashville," Gae Buckley on NBC's "Continue,Inch Brent Thomas on CW's "Cult," Sandy Cochrane on Nickelodeon's "Fairly Oddparents 2" and Ough Eyres on Kazuaki Kiriya's "The Final Dark night."Montana reserved costume designers Christie Wittenborn on NBC's "Beautiful People," Kelli Johnson on Fox's untitled Kevin Williamson project and Betsy Heimann on Fox's untitled Karyn Usher project. Agency reserved editors Alan Cody on ABC's "Beauty and also the Animal," Michelle Tesoro, on HBO's "Luck," Jonathan Schwartz on Showtime's "The Large C" and Vikash Patel on the&E's "Longmire." * * * Dattner Dispoto signed advertisements and music video stylist Brigitte Pavich Echols, costume designer Jill K. Lucas ("Raising the Bar") and d.p.'s Rachel Morrison ("Tim and Eric's Big Movie") and Michael Wale ("Smallville").Dattner Dispoto film reservations: production designer Cecil Gentry on Susan Seidelman's "The Menopausal Flashes," costume designer Mary Claire Hannan on Diablo Cody's "Lamb Of God," d.p. Rodney Taylor on Deon Taylor's "Supremacy," line producer Patty Lengthy on Erectile dysfunction Gass-Donnelly's "The Final Exorcism 2" and d.p. Bobby Bukowski on Ariel Vromen's "The Iceman."Dattner Dispoto TV reservations: costume designer Nadine Haders on TNT's "Leverage" and d.p.'s John Lindley on NBC pilot "The Frontier," Robert Gantz on CW pilot "Cult" and USA's "Whitened Collar," Xavier Grobet on HBO's "Enlightened," Flavio Labiano on CBS pilot "Quean" and Jo Willems on ABC pilot "Gotham." * * * Innovative artists signed editor Ron Shaine ("Stories of Narnia: Voyage of Beginning Treader"), art director John Collins ("The Hunger Games"), costume designer Kimberly Tillman ("Battleship") and d.p.'s Tobias Datum ("Smashed") and John Inwood "Parks and Entertainment").Innovative reserved line producers Kate Dean on Kaira Copeland's "Coffee Town," David Sophistication on Lake Bell's "Inside a World," Tim Iacofano on ABC pilot "Penoza," Gideon Amir on The new sony pilot "Frontier" and Ron Mcleod on UPM pilot "Quean." Agency reserved d.p.'s Tim Suhrstedt on Diablo Cody's next feature, Doug Chamberlain on Kat Coiro's "A Situation Individuals,Inch David Hennings on Dylan Kidd's "Obtain a Job," Checco Varese as second unit d.p. on Guillermo Del Toro's "Off-shore Rim," Eric Edwards with an untitled Hilary Winston pilot for The new sony Theo Van p Sande on CBS pilot "Beauty and also the Animal," Darren Genet on CBS pilot "Applebaum," Levie Isaacks on ABC pilot "American Judy" and John Thomas on Showtime's "The Large C."Innovative reserved production designers Craig Chusid on Mikeal Hafstrom's "The Tomb," Zack Grobler on Warner Bros. pilot "Revolution," Corey Kaplan on Warner Bros. pilot "Shelter," Victoria Paul on The new sony pilot "Save Me," Stefania Cella" on Fox pilot "The Resource," Stephen Lineweaver on "Applebaum," Stuart Blatt on NBC Uni pilot "County," Nick Lundy on Warner Bros. pilot "Guilty," Tony Medina on Lifetime movie "Blue Lagoon" and Ray Kluga on USA's "Royal Pains."Innovative reserved editors Matt Ramsey on ABC pilot "Gilded Lilly's," Matt Barber on Warner Bros. pilot "Cult," Tim Alverson on Walter Hill's "Bullet towards the Mind," Annette Davey on Kaira Copeland's "Coffee Town," Cara Silverman on Fox pilot "Susan 313," Michael Knue on David Hackl's "Red-colored Machine," Dorian Harris and John Valerio on HBO's "Enlightened" and Michael Ruscio on HBO's "True Bloodstream." Agency also reserved costume designers George Little on Kathryn Bigelow untitled feature, Alysia Raycraft on NBC Uni pilot "Mindy Kaling," Molly Maginnis on Cinemax feature "Muhammed Ali's Finest Fight," Rachel Sage Kunin on Warner Horizon's "Longmire," Sanja Hays on Justin Lin's "Fast and Furious 6," Victoria Auth with an untitled Berman/Wright/Dinner pilot for The new sony, Kim Tillman on The new sony pilot "Save Me," Monique Prudomme on Thor Freudenthal's "Percy Jackson 2," Kathryn Morrison on The new sony pilot "Last Measure" and Tish Monaghan on Warner Bros. pilot "Arrow." Innovative also reserved stunt coordinator Markos Rounthwaite on Shane Black's "Iron Guy 3." Contact Peter Caranicas at peter.caranicas@variety.com

IATSE, Teamsters set Monday rally for 'Die'

The Intl. Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees as well as the Intl. Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 399 have set a Monday rally outdoors the Burbank headquarters of Original Prods. incorporated inside a push to unionize the tv series "1000 Techniques to Die." The rally remains occur the wake of producers neglecting about 30 crew those who have been attempting to unionize. Teamsters busines repetition Steve Dayan mentioned the fired crew people are actually transformed. A speaker for Original mentioned the business did not have comment in regards to the rally. Four-year-old "A Thousand Techniques to Die" airs on Spike TV with re-enactments of strange conditions through which people have left. Contact Dork McNary at dork.mcnary@variety.com

Watch Kevin Kline and Mike Myers in Marginally Funny 'Oscar Etiquette' Promo

Another Academy awards promo video, another vain make an effort to show some personality and pep through the Academy this time around round the Academy awards have drawn on Mike Myers to complete an uppity butler type straight from the discards from the Austin Forces supporting character brainstorming boards, who shows Oscar champion Kevin Kline the best way to hold his statuette. If the type of humor tickles you silly and enables you to set your TV calendar for Sunday, then hold onto your pants and chill a couple of cans of Ensure! We're set for a riot, people. I am talking about, what states amusing and relevant a lot more than KEVIN KLINE and MIKE MYERS?? Sigh. It isn't even funny to joke about how exactly unfunny these bits are. I won't believe this is actually the very best that Funny or Die could use the Academy awards. Because of the choice, I election "Die." Follow Jen Yamato on Twitter. Follow Movieline on Twitter.

Viasat Extends NFL Broadcast, Simulcast Rights In Nordic Region Through 2017

Viasat Broadcasting today announced that it has extended its live broadcasting rights to the National Football League (NFL) in Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland, until the end of the 2017 NFL season. The rights include live broadcast coverage on free-TV and pay-TV, as well as live simulcast for mobile phones and the internet. Viasat has broadcast the NFL in the Nordic region since 2006. Beginning with the 2012 season, Viasat Broadcastings rights include regular season games and all post-season games including the Super Bowl. Swedish viewers will be able to watch live games from the regular season, the playoffs and the Super Bowl on free-TV channel TV10 and premium pay-TV channel Viasat Fotboll HD. Norwegian viewers will be able to watch the Super Bowl live on free-TV channel Viasat 4, while games from the regular season, the playoffs and the Super Bowl will be shown live on premium pay-TV channels Viasat Sport and Viasat Sport HD. Danish viewers will be able to watch Sunday games at 22.00 and 02.00 from the regular season, the playoffs and the Super Bowl live in standard and high definition on free-TV channel TV3+. Joint venture pay-TV channel TV 2 Sport Denmark will show live Sunday games at 19.00 and Monday games live at 02.30 during the regular season. Finnish viewers will be able to watch games from the regular season, the playoffs and the Super Bowl live on the Nelonen Pro sports channels, available on Viasats Finnish digital satellite pay-TV platform and in Viasat pay-TV packages. All televised games on Sunday (at least 1 and up to 2) at 19.00 and 22.15 will also be made available as a simulcast on the online pay-TV service Viaplay in all Nordic countries for customers who subscribe to the TV + Film + Sport package. The NFL is a premium worldwide sports right and the Super Bowl is one of the most watched events of the sporting calendar. The sport has a loyal following in the Nordic region and we are delighted to have extended our successful five year partnership for another five years. We have an unrivalled sports offering across multiple channels and platforms and we are committed to bring our viewers the very best in local and international sports entertainment, said Peter Nrrelund, Head of Sports for Viasat. Importantly, were also showing our commitment to bringing our viewers Entertainment at your Command! by securing multi-platform rights for this popular sport. Viasat has supported the NFL and its fans in the Nordic region for many years, and we are pleased to be extending our partnership, said Julie Moeller, NFL Director of International Media and Business Development.

Lay off vitamins!

Sumner Redstone Dr. David Agus welcomes Terrence Howard and Lance Armstrong to his book signing. Tom Sherak and Robert Evans meet at Soho House. Joan Collins It's a very rare book signing that not only brings out Sumner Redstone but inspires him to take the mic and give a speech.Monday night at WeHo's Soho House, the media magnate spoke of "two geniuses," the evening's host, Robert Evans, who gave the world "The Godfather" and "Chinatown," and author of the hour, Dr. David Agus, whom Redstone thanked for his "miracle recovery."Evans called it "the best Valentine's Eve Party in my life. I'm talking about the greatest wealth of all: our health," and went on to credit Dr. Agus' team with having "discovered new methods to stamp out plagues that affect us all." As for the doctor's book, "The End of Illness" (Simon & Schuster), Evans said the title "is not hyperbole. It's the real thing."Dr. Agus revealed that the tome had originally been called "What Is Health?" but the late Steve Jobs talked him out of it, saying that title "made it feel like you're chewing cardboard."Regarding mastication, Dr. Agus told the starry gathering, among other things, to take aspirin and avoid vitamins.Those listening to his advice included Les Moonves, Brad Grey, Joan Collins, Tom Sherak, Variety's Peter Bart, Brett Ratner (who tried to help Evans with the mic but was shooed away) and another Dr. Agus true believer, Lance Armstrong. Contact Robert Hofler at bob.hofler@variety.com

Tune hard of hearing

It can't be Oscar season when the Academy's music branch did not drum up some type of debate. This season the audience asked more bad press because of its collective decision to appoint 3 tunes (from "Muppets" and "Rio") -- the cheapest number since Oscar began rewarding songwriters in 1934. Responses ranged from disgust (studio music chiefs) to outrage (music experts) to mystified (John Q. Public). And following on a number of broadly perceived problems (snubbing, amongst others, the Cher song from 2010's "Burlesque," the Springsteen song from 2008's "The Wrestler" along with a clutch of Eddie Vedder tunes from 2007's "In to the Wild"), the branch now faces an emergency. Many experts -- including some high-profile songwriter people -- are with a re-considering the guidelines to get rid of the 7-year-old certifying system and just nominate 5 top election-getters. States one top music professional: "Let us obtain a branch along with a rulebook that understands how to nominate honours with integrity which could be respected because the pinnacle from the craft, less an irrelevant punchline." There have been lots of candidates. Thirty-nine tunes were considered qualified this season, included in this award-worthy tunes from "Gnomeo and Juliet," "The Assistance,Inch "Albert Nobbs," "Winnie the Pooh," "Captain America," "Hugo" and "Footloose." 3 ("Guy or Muppet" and "Real in Rio") received the required 8.25 average among voters who made a decision to take part in the song balloting -- and when you've joined an audio lesson of your, you are not permitted to sign up, another rule that some people have trouble. There is much less debate within the score category, even though early disqualification of scores that incorporated High cliff Martinez's spoken-about "Drive" music and Conrad Pope's well-loved "My Week With Marilyn" styles triggered a stir in December. The large news once the noms were introduced Jan. 24 was the crowning of 5-time Oscar champion John Williams with a brand new all-time mark of 47 noms, which capped Alfred Newman's 45, an archive which had was since 1970. Williams has become probably the most-nominated living individual and 2nd-most overall (behind Wally Disney). The majority of the score noms were foreseeable, as veterans Williams, Howard Shoreline and Alberto Iglesias were became a member of beginning with-timer Ludovic Bource for his wall-to-wall score for that mostly quiet "The Artist." It is also an worldwide crowd: the U.S.-born Williams became a member of by Canadian-born Shoreline, The spanish language-born Iglesias and French-born Bource. That does not mean there were not surprises, however. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, who won this past year for "The Social Networking," were overlooked for his or her edgy synth score for "The Lady Using the Dragon Tattoo" Thomas Newman wasn't nominated for "The AssistanceInch and also the prolific Alexandre Desplat skipped out despite 2011 scores for "The Ides of March," "Very Noisy & Incredibly Close" and also the "Harry Potter" finale. You will find 232 voting people within the music branch, based on Acad executives they all are composers, songwriters or music editors. Studio music executives and music administrators are usually excluded in the process. Eye around the Academy awards: The MusicTune deafThe nominees:Score Song Contact the range newsroom at news@variety.com

Pay Attention, Twitter: Demi Lovato and Demi Moore Are Two Differing People

Demi Moore, Demi Lovato Recent reviews about Demi Moore being put in the hospital for "exhaustion" possess some folks on Twitter confused. It appears they are mixing in the 49-year-old star of G.I. Jane using the 19-year-old Demi Lovato, that has also had her share of health problems. They might share a title, however the two stars could not become more different. To wit:Demi Lovato: I had been consuming and taking advantage of drugs to numb the discomfort-Moore's breakout role is at the 1985 coming-of-age film St. Elmo's Fire. Lovato got her Hollywood begin in Disney's Camping Rock, which opened in 2008.-They have both dated hunky stars who made an appearance on That '70s Show. Moore married Ashton Kutcher in 2005 (they separated in November 2011). Lovato has already established an on-again, off-again relationship with Wilmer Valderrama.-On Wednesday, after Moore was put in the hospital and her reps confirmed she was seeking treatment, reviews appeared it was a direct result allegedly breathing in a harmful quantity of nitrous oxide (also called Whip-Its). Lovato, that has searched for strategy to drug abuse, an eating disorders, and self-injuries, has openly extolled the benefits of rehab: "To have the ability to share my story and inform them it will get simpler. Existence is beautiful... You should have it," she tweeted in December about a vacation to the center where she received treatment.Did whip-its send Demi Moore towards the hospital?-Moore lately dropped from the film Lovelace, by which she ended up being to portray feminist Gloria Steinem. In April 2011, Lovato left the Disney TV series Sonny With an opportunity to concentrate on her music career and becoming healthy.All obvious now?

Pair join Cruise in U sci-fi pic

KurylenkoRiseboroughUniversal has attracted on Olga Kurylenko and Andrea Riseborough since the female leads opposite Tom Cruise in Ernest Kosinski's untitled sci-fi pic. William Monahan and Karl Gajdusek written earlier drafts in the script, that's presently being rewritten by Michael Arndt. Advanced story follows a soldier situated in the world, the top that's been destroyed by aliens. Because he discovers a mysterious lady in the crash-showed up pod, it sparks a number of occasions that induce him to question everything they are fully aware. Peter Chernin and Dylan Clark are coming up with through Chernin Entertainment, along with Craig Levine of Radical Posting and Kosinski. Jesse Berger and Dork Morrison will professional produce. Production is predicted to start inside the first quarter of 2012. It seems that almost every high-profile youthful actress around remains connected to the project eventually. As Variety first reported, Jessica Chastain showed up another female lead in September, but was instructed to get after she signed onto Kathryn Bigelow's untitled Osama bin Laden pic and could not arrange her schedule to accomodate both films. Kurylenko examined for just about any role in August along with Chastain, Olivia Wilde and Noomi Rapace. But after Chastain showed up one part, Kurylenko wasn't among many other ladies who examined with Cruise in November. Affiliates say Cruise loved her within the original test, and ongoing to become inside the mix despite not testing again in November. For Riseborough, it's the first time her title remains in the project, as she didn't test for either part in August or November. Thesp could make her American debut while using film, as until lately, she's only toplined Brit photos including Madonna's "W.E." Thesp's next film, James Marsh's "Shadow Dancer," preems at Sundance inside a couple of days. Kurylenko, who carried out a Bond girl in "Quantum of Solace" and may soon be seen on Starz's approaching series "Miracle City," recently wrapped Terrence Malick's untitled pic starring Film Clip. Kurylenko is repped by CAA and Tavistock Wood Management. Riseborough is repped by CAA, Untitled Entertainment and Independent Talent Group. Arndt is repped by Verve and McKuin Frankel Whitehead LLP. Contact Rob Sneider at rob.sneider@variety.com

Target game game titles

'Simon Killer''Keep the Lights On''Arbitrage''Red Lights''Predisposed''Liberal Arts'"a few days in NY"Chris Rock joins Julie Delpy in this particular Gotham-based follow-around her $20 million-grossing Paris-based indie romance. (Rezo/CAA)"About Face"Cinemax has TV rights, but theatrical could be acquired, with this particular revealing have a look at history's most legendary models within the director of "The Black List." (Films Transit)"Arbitrage"Richard Gere and Susan Sarandon topline Nicholas Jarecki's directorial debut, a thriller set in the backdrop of financial scandal. (WME)"Bachelorette"Customers are wanting this Kirsten Dunst starrer shapes up to become commercial, "Bridesmaids"-style comedy. (CAA)"Celeste and Jesse Forever"A couple of (Rashida Manley and Andy Samberg) debate love after divorce in this particular Black List-based script from Sundance vet Lee Toland Krieger. (UTA)"Chasing after after IceDoc comprises a scenario for climatic change through Nat Geo photog James Balog's stunning glacier portraits. (Submarine)"Compliance"High concept and poor mix in this particular Next thriller, about mind games inside a fast-food restaurant, from director Craig Zobel. (Cinetic)"Excision"This teen-movie/horror mashup purports to transform the means by which auds see "90210" star Annalynne McCord. (Preferred Content/Cassian Elwes)"The House Home IsInchInchWhy We Fight" helmer Eugene Jarecki changes his concentrate on America's combat drugs in this particular high-profile doc premiere. (Cinetic)"The Imposter"Military services weapons Texan teen resurfaces years later in the united states -- or does he? Ideas are actually flying relevant for this thriller-like doc. (CAA/Submarine)"Keep the Lights On"Ira Sachs won Sundance's jury prize in 2005 for "Forty Shades of Blue." Now he returns getting an account of contempo gay coupling. (WME/Preferred Content)"L""Willfully bizarre," claims the Sundance blurb relating to this Greek pic co-put together by one amongst the "Dogtooth" scribes. Gets the critics' curiosity spurred. (Peter Carlton, Warp Films)"Liberal Arts"Sundance alum Josh Radnor revisits his old college, where he falls for college students carried out by Elizabeth Olsen. (Gersh)"The Pact"Extended in the 2011 Sundance short, this ghost story could attract customers searching for an additional "The Demon Inside." (Preferred Content)"Predisposed"This late-add Premieres title stars Jesse Eisenberg just like a piano prodigy at odds along with his mother (Melissa Leo). (ICM)"The Entire of Versailles"Construction from the extravagant mansion reflects the housing bubble in this particular opening-evening competish doc. (Submarine) "Red-colored-colored Lights""Hidden" director Rodrigo Cortes returns to Sundance getting a paranormal thriller that apparently dollars the genre. (UTA)"Safety Not Guaranteed"A newspaper ad seeking a companion for time travel sparks romance between Aubrey Plaza and Mark Duplass. (Cinetic)"Simon Killer"The newest from "Afterschool" director (and "Martha Marcy May Marlene" producer) Antonio Campos. (CAA/UTA)"Sleepwalk Beside MeInchHidden away in Next, affable standup Mike Birbiglia changes his popular one-guy show. (UTA)"West of Memphis""Coping with Damien Echols, doc director Amy Berg gives an interior account in the "Paradise Lost" situation. (Key Creatives)Sundance Film Festival 2012How to brand a fest Tyro focus makes fest no country for old males Target game game titles Thrills turn more extreme as indie genre photos evolve Newcomer 'dance Filmmakers absolve to experiment in labs Contact Peter Debruge at peter.debruge@variety.com

Early B.O.: 'Contraband' jumps into lead

Universal's Mark Wahlberg-starrer 'Contraband' could wind up with $25 million over the long Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend.Universal's Mark Wahlberg thriller "Contraband" has an early jump on a trio of weekend newcomers, taking between $6 million and $7 million at the domestic box office, according to early Friday estimates. Disney's 3D re-release of 1991's "Beauty and the Beast" and Warner Bros.' musical-comedy "Joyful Noise" both opened in the $4 million to $6 million range. Box office analysts indicated that "Contraband" could wind up with $21 million at 2,862 locations for the three days, and $25 million for the four days over the long Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. "Beauty and the Beast" looks likely to finish in second with $17 million through Sunday and $22 million through Monday, followed by "Joyful Noise" with $14.5 million for the three days and $17 million for the four. The Weinstein Co.'s aggressive expansion of "The Iron Lady" to 802 engagements appeared to be headed for a three-day total of $5.5 million and a four-day take of $6.5 million. Paramount's second frame of "The Devil Inside," coming off last weekend's stunning $33.7 million debut, was off sharply on Friday and headed for an $11 million take for the three day-day frame. Studio's fifth frame of "Mission: Impossible -- Ghost Protocol," is looking likely to surpass "Devil" with a 35% decline to $13 million for the Friday-Sunday period and wind up the weekend with its domestic cume topping $190 million. Contact Dave McNary at dave.mcnary@variety.com

'Friday Evening Lights' lands at BSkyB

LONDON -- U.S. TV drama "Friday Evening Lights," a double champion within the Emmys, has finally found a home inside the U.K. Skein is always to bow on satcaster BSkyB's trendy Sky Atlantic funnel late February. The paybox guaranteed all U.K. TV rights for your initial few quantity of "Friday Evening Lights" from NBCUniversal Worldwide Television Distribution. Famous by experts inside the U.S., the sports drama, first examined in 2006, was not ever a sizable ratings champion. Show follows the exploits from the imaginary high-school football team, the Dillon Panthers, and was recognized due to its deft handling of difficult written content, for instance bereavement. "Friday Evening Lights" only agreed to be held in the ax undertaking a production deal between NBCU and DirecTV. Within the Emmys, Kyle Chandler won best lead actor for his role as coach Eric Taylor, while professional producer Jason Katims triumphed for his script composed for your series' finale. On Sky Atlantic, "Friday Evening Lights" joins an idea including such high-finish U.S. fare since the postponed fifth season of "Mad Males," season a few "Wager on Thrones" as well as the fourth season of "Nurse Jackie." Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

LA Coroner States Heavy D Died Of Natural Causes

First Released: December 27, 2011 6:53 PM EST Credit: Getty Premium La, Calif. -- Caption Heavy D attends T.I.s AKOO Clothing First Annual A King Of Yourself Brunch in the Mansion, Atlanta, Georgia, on October 2, 2011The La coroners office states Jamaican-born rapper Heavy D died of natural causes. The self-announced overweight lover of stylish hop, who grew to become among raps top hit makers with a mix of humor and positivity, flattened outdoors his Beverly Hillsides home on November. 8. The 44 year-old rapper, whose real title was Dwight Errington, died later in a hospital. Coroners office spokesperson Craig Harvey stated Tuesday that weight along with a transcontinental jet flight were adding factors. The reason for dying was lung embolism and deep leg vein thrombosis. Younger crowd had arteriosclerotic coronary disease. Heavy D grew to become among the genres most integral stars within the late eighties and early the nineteen nineties. His hit The Overweight Enthusiasts in the home performed up his hefty frame. Copyright 2011 through the Connected Press. All privileges reserved. These components might not be released, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Journalist: Hacking rife at Morgan's Mirror

LONDON -- Phone hacking was rife at U.K. tabloid the Daily Mirror under the editorship of Piers Morgan, a former employee testified Wednesday.James Hipwell, a former business journalist at the paper, told the Leveson Inquiry, which is investigating press ethics and practices in the U.K., that Morgan was an extremely hands-on editor, and it was "very unlikely he did not know what was going on."Hipwell conceded that he had no evidence that Morgan, who now hosts CNN talkshow "Piers Morgan Tonight," was involved in phone hacking, but said it was unlikely that Morgan had been kept in the dark."Nothing happened at the newspaper without him knowing," Hipwell said, speaking under oath a day after Morgan gave evidence to the inquiry via video-link from Los Angeles. Hipwell claimed that phone hacking was a "standard journalistic tool for gathering information" at the paper.Hipwell was convicted in 2005 of illegal share dealing, after it emerged that he had made money by buying shares that were promoted in the next day's paper. Morgan had also been investigated in same inquiry, but was cleared of wrong-doing.In a further development Wednesday, Heather Mills, the former wife of Paul McCartney, stated on her official website that she had never disclosed to Morgan voicemail messages left for her by her husband. Morgan told the inquiry Tuesday that he had listened to a message left on Mills' voice mail by McCartney, but refused to say how it had been obtained. Contact Leo Barraclough at leo.barraclough@variety.com

Cooper to star in 'Summer in February'

LONDON -- Dominic Cooper will topline for each other-triangular drama "Summer time in Feb," that is skedded to begin lensing the following month.Thesp plays artist Alfred Munnings, who had been area of the bohemian Lamorna Group, located in Cornwall, England, at the outset of the twentieth century. Cooper formerly starred in "The Devil's Double," in addition to showing up in "My Week with Marilyn" and "Captain America: The Very First Avenger." He'll next topline in "Abraham Lincoln subsequently: Vampire Hunter." Pic also features thesps Serta Stevens ("Downton Abbey"), Ophelia Lovibond ("Mr Popper's Penguins") and Hattie Morahan ("The Financial Institution Job"). Christopher Menaul ("Prime Suspect") helms from the script by Jonathan Cruz, who modified their own novel.Pic is created by Pippa Mix and Janette Day for CrossDay Prods., and Jeremy Cowdrey for Apart Films.CrossDay's credits include "My Left Feet," "The Area," "Home of Mirth," "Bloody Sunday," "Vanity Fair" and "Chalet Girl." Bob Benton and Serta Stevens professional produce. Contact Leo Barraclough at leo.barraclough@variety.com

Warner Music Deficits Keep Growing As Drop In Compact disc Sales Surpasses Digital Growth

Warner Group is constantly on the sing an unfortunate tune if this involves its financial performance. It reported today it were built with a internet lack of $103M within the quarter that led to September,124% larger than its reduction in exactly the same period this past year, on revenues of $707M, lower 6%. The financial report is mainly forbondholdersRussian-born billionaire Len Blavatnik’s Access Industries bought the organization in This summer for $3.3B. Still, it’s a dreary declaring the organization whose roster of hitmakers includes Bruno Mars, Cee Lo Eco-friendly, In Demand Chili All kinds of peppers, and Jill Scott. Warner states that it is recorded music revenues fell 8% to $571M. Although sales from digital distribution were up 6% to $194M, which was “more than offset by contracting demand” for Compact disks. Meanwhile revenues in the music posting operation fell 1% to $141M. Warner states the quarter’s disappointing outcome was because of “a light release schedule”weak sales within the U.S., Japan, and many of Europe and rising interest obligations around the debtAccess required onto purchase the music company. Warner was the odd company out recently when Citigroup introduced it decided to sell EMI’s recorded music operation to Vivendi’s Universal Music and also the music posting unit to some consortium brought by The new sony. Warner Boss Stephen Cooper states that “it’s hard to predict how that acquisition will work its way throught the scrutiny from the regulating process.” Former Seagram and Vivendi Universal chief Edgar Bronfman Junior stated now he’ll leave his job as chairman of Warner Music in The month of january, and can stick to its board.

Billy Burke, Taylor Lautner and Daniel Radcliffe: Hollywood's Bargain Stars

Before you begin popping champagne about Michael Bay maybe possibly being thisclose to coming back for 'Transformers 4,' have a look at exactly what the explosive director published on his website. "Studio's [sic] are passing gossips but I am unsure what I am doing? I understand I am likely to do 'Pain and Gain' springtime but that is it for at this time. I am departing my options up for grabs. I have got several Studio [sic] conferences within the next two days." Late Tuesday, Vulture reported that Bay was essentially moments from coming back towards the lucrative franchise for any 4th go-around, by having an official announcement in the future within the next week. Knowing from what Bay authored on Aim for the Edit, it may sound like this week may extend into 2012. Stay updated? [Aim for the Edit via Movieline]

Former 'Gossip Girl' Intern Progressing After Losing Hand in Propeller Accident (Video)

Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney on Tuesday became the latest Republican presidential candidate to say he will not participate in the upcoming debate moderated by Donald Trump.our editor recommendsDonald Trump Defends G.O.P. Debate Moderation, Slams 'Joke' Candidates on 'Today' (Video)Donald Trump Accuses Jon Stewart of 'Racist Rant' about Herman Cain (Video)Donald Trump Charging $10,000 for Invitation-Only Meet and GreetMitt Romney and Fox News' Bret Baier Butt Heads Over Attack Ads (Video)Democrats Release 'Hollywood-Style' Ad Attacking Mitt Romney (Video)Mitt Romney's 2007 'Meet the Press' Appearance Provides Fodder for Newt Gingrich Campaign (Video)Mitt Romney Is First GOP Presidential Hopeful to Book Hollywood Fundraiser (Exclusive)Related Topics•Politics Romney told Fox News' Neil Cavuto that he called Trump and told him he would not attend because he was too busy to appear at Dec. 27 forum in Des Moines, Iowa. PHOTOS: Best Presidents in Film and Television "No, I'm not participating in that," Romney said. "We have two debates in December that I'veagreed to participate in. The rest of the month will be spent campaigning." For his part, Trump told ABC News in a statement that he accepted Romney's decision. "It would seem logical to me that if I was substantially behind in the polls, especially in Iowa, South Carolina and Florida, I would want to participate in this debate," Trump said. "But I understand why Gov. Romney decided not to do it." Several prominent Republicans have urged candidates to skip the debate, according to the Associated Press. They predict it will be a media circus and a distraction from important issues. PHOTOS: Actors Who've Played Politicians So far, two candidates have declined to appear -- Texas Rep. Ron Paul and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman -- the latter of whom to'd CNBC's Larry Kudlow that he believes the debate is just a publicity stunt. "This isn't about ratings for Donald Trump; this is about jobs for the American people," Huntsman said. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum are the only two candidates to confirm their participation in the debate so far, with other candidates including Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann and Texas Gov. Rick Perry yet to make an announcement. However, Bachmann on CBS' Early Show expressed concerns about Trump's objectivity, saying "he said he's already learning towards a candidate." PHOTOS: 10 Entertainers Democrats and Republicans Love to Hate Trump made headlines earlier this year when he suggested that President Barack Obama is foreign-born while saying that he might run for president himself. In May, he announced he would not be running, saying: "Business is my greatest passion, and I am not ready to leave the private sector." Still, he has not ruled out a presidential bid as a third-party candidate. The Dec. 27 debate is scheduled to air on Ion. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Democrats and Republicans' Favorite Movies Related Topics Barack Obama Donald Trump Politics Michele Bachmann Rick Perry Newt Gingrich Mitt Romney

Rosies Fiance Show Off Rock

First Published: December 6, 2011 2:28 PM EST Credit: Twitter Caption Michelle Rounds diamond engagement ring that Rosie ODonnell gave her and posted on Twitter; inset: Rosie ODonnell and Michelle Rounds in Miami, Fla., on November 24, 2011LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- After announcing their engagement on Monday, Rosie ODonnell and Michelle Rounds gave the world a look at the impressive ring that the talk show host gave her ladylove. Rosie posted a photo of the sparkler on Twitter on Monday night accompanied by the caption, so so so happy. Stars including Marlee Matlin and Bravo executive and Watch What Happens Live host Andy Cohen congratulated the star on her big news. Rosie responded, Tweeting, i am very happy. As previously reported on AccessHolllywood.com, Rosies rep confirmed to Access that the two became engaged several weeks ago and will continue to split their time between NY City and Chicago, where Rosie films her Oprah Winfrey Network talk show, The Rosie Show. Rosie and Michelle first went public with their romance at the red carpet for the Building Dreams for Kids Gala in NY City in September. The talk show host was with Kelli Carpenter, a television marketing executive, from 2004-2007. The pair have four children together Parker, Chelsea and Blake, who were all adopted and Vivienne Rose, who Kelli gave birth to in 2002. Copyright 2011 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Whistler kudos & credits

Steven Gaydos interviews Jay Baruchel at Whistler Film Fest. Beneath pristine peaks in the ski resort capital of scotland - Whistler, Bc, Variety saluted a couple of its award those who win in the eleventh annual Whistler Film Festival.Andy Serkis, honored as Tech Pioneer of the season for his operate in performance-capture acting, was shooting aerial footage in Nz for "The Hobbit" but interrupted his morning to "jump commando style" from a helicopter and Skype right into a master class in the Whistler Fest. He told the festival aud, "Personally i think very lucky to become at the stage where (performance capture) is simply starting to be charted and used correctly." But he did possess a complaint concerning the way his jobs are referred to -- and credited. "I have got a listing of the methods my work continues to be spoken about. 'Andy Serkis has given his voice to,' or 'Andy Serkis has given his actions to,' or 'Andy Serkis has lifted the smoothness up.' You will find each one of these elliptical methods for explaining it. In fact, it's acting."Jay Baruchel, the longtime thesp that has switched scribe for "Goon," recognized kudos among Variety's "10 Screenwriters to look atInch for 2011 within an onstage conversation with Variety's Steven Gaydos. Montreal native Baruchel needs to help keep making movies in Canada. "I wish to do for Montreal what David Cronenberg did for Toronto," he stated.

Marion Dougherty, Legendary Casting Director, Dies at 88

Marion Dougherty, the legendary casting director who gave James Dean,Warren Beatty, Robert Redford, Dustin HoffmanandGlenn Closetheir first shots in front of the camera, died Dec. 4 at her home in NY. She had been suffering from cardiovascular disease and was 88.Related Topics•Obituaries With her acute ability to spot great headliners, Dougherty flouted the old Hollywood system of stock casting by using actors with a nuanced sense of character and individuality. She first began working in live television, started her first casting office in NY City in 1965, and moved to Hollywood to head casting at Paramount in 1976. She joined Warner Bros. in 1979 and spent more than three decades there. "Marion was a pioneer," recalled Juliet Taylor, Wood Allen's frequent collaborator, who first worked for Dougherty as a secretary. "Before Marion, casting directors were more like organizers, secretaries who put together cattle calls. Marion turned it into a very selective process. She would say to directors, 'I will bring in three or four actors, they all will be very different, but they all could plqy the role.' She made a real contribution, and directors loved it." PHOTOS: Hollywood's Notable Deaths Dougherty cast scores of films, including Midnight Cowboy (1969), The Owl and the Pussycat (1971), Slaughterhouse-Five (1972), The Paper Chase (1973), Escape From Alcatraz (1979), Urban Cowboy (1980), Reds (1981), The Killing Fields (1984), Full Metal Jacket (1987), Gorillas in the Mist (1988), Batman (1989), Falling Down (1993), Payback (1999) and the Lethal Weapon series. Today's casting directors who learned under her wing include Taylor,Amanda Mackey (Get Carter) and Ellen Lewis (Forest Gump). For eight years, Dougherty was the uncredited casting director on the acclaimed, live Kraft Television Theatre. She nextcast the gritty filmed dramasNaked City and Route 66. During those years, she started the careers of such actors as Dean and Hoffman. Talking about the actors she employed on Naked City, Dougherty once said: "This was Hollywood's window on the NY talent pool. There were people like [Robert] Duvall and [Walter] Matthau, and all these people - they had no idea who they were, and they saw them for the first time on Naked City." When Mayor John Lindsay made NY more attractive to filmmakers in the late '60s, productions poured into the city, and Dougherty, who had just opened her own casting office, was a beneficiary. "Directors poured in from all over the world, and because they didn't know the community, Marion would guide them," Taylor recalled.. "She had very strong, original opinions. For example, she championed Jon Voight for Midnight Cowboy when John Schlesinger wanted someone else. She was very supportive, made actors feel very comfortable, and did the same thing for directors." United Artists executive David Picker invited her to produce movies and she moved to the West Coast, working on such films as 1975's Smile and 1976's Won Ton Ton: The Dog Who Saved Hollywood. When Picker was subsequently named president of Paramount's motion picture division, she became the studio's vp in charge of casting before moving on, several years later, to Warners. Dougherty won a Crystal Award from Women in Film in 1986 and a year later received the Hoyt Bowers Award from the Casting Society of America. She is survived by two sisters and several nieces. Her friends plan to hold a private gathering in her memory at a date to be decided in January. PHOTO GALLERY: View Gallery Hollywood's Notable Deaths Related Topics Obituaries