NEW STUDENTS, CELEBRITY CONTESTANTS AND MILLION-DOLLAR WINNERS ON “ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5^th GRADER?”   As summer vacation comes to a close, school bells are ringing across the country, and it’s time for a new batch of students, contestants and celebrities to take the $1 million challenge this fall on ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5^th GRADER? airing Fridays (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.       (Read More)

200 MILLION WATCH OLYMPICS ON NBC UNIVERSAL NETWORKS   Through 11 days, NBCU's Olympic coverage has reached 200 million people and more than 83 percent of all U.S. television homes. It has also delivered the most dominant margins of victory for any network in any primetime week in the history of Nielsen's People Meter sample, which dates back 21 years to September 1987.       (Read More)

YATES RACING AND NBC ANNOUNCE DRIVER TRAVIS KVAPIL TO DRIVE No. 28 'KNIGHT RIDER' FORD AT BRISTOL  Yates Racing and NBC announced today that in a unique partnership between Ford Motor Company and NBC, Travis Kvapil will pilot the No. 28 "Knight Rider" Ford for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway on August 23rd.       (Read More)

NBC ANNOUNCES COURTNEY B. VANCE WILL JOIN REAL-LIFE WIFE ANGELA BASSETT ON 'ER' FOR MULTI -EPISODE STORY ARC DURING 15TH AND FINAL SEASON  NBC announced that Courtney B. Vance will join NBC's long running show "ER" (Thursdays, 10-11 p.m. ET/PT) in multi-episode story arc during season 15. Vance will be playing the role of Russell Banfield, husband to Cate Banfield played by real-life wife, Angela Bassett. "ER" will mark the first time Vance and Bassett will be acting together.       (Read More)

ABC'S "ALL MY CHILDREN" ANNOUNCES CASTING SEARCH FOR A REAL LIFE WAR VETERAN, AND SHOW PARTNERS WITH USA CARES FOR STORYLINE CONSULTANCY  ABC's "All My Children" is conducting a nationwide search to cast a real life Iraqi War veteran to play a new role on the Emmy® Award-winning daytime drama. The show has also partnered with USA Cares, an organization founded to support post 9/11 veterans and their families, which will serve as a resource for storyline research and guidance.       (Read More)

"THE 2008 ALMA AWARDS®" FEATURING TODAY'S HOTTEST STARS,
AIRS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 ON ABC  Hosted by Eva Longoria Parker, with Special Tributes to America Ferrera, Linda Ronstadt, Shakira and Narciso Rodriguez "The 2008 ALMA Awards® " taped a star-studded event on August 17 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, CA. The annual show which recognizes and celebrates the outstanding artistic achievement of Latinos in film, television and music, airs FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 (8:00-10:00 p.m., ET/PT), on the ABC Television Network.       (Read More)

"THE 60TH ANNUAL PRIMETIME EMMY® AWARDS" TO FEATURE "TELEVISION'S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS" DURING LIVE CEREMONY, SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC  Fans Can See Clips and Vote for Favorites at emmys.abc.com As a special element in celebrating the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' "60th Annual Primetime Emmy® Awards"-broadcast live, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on ABC - "Television's Most Memorable Moments" will be highlighted as chosen from a nationwide internet vote.       (Read More)

"THE VIEW" SEASON 12 PREMIERES LIVE, SEPTEMBER 2 ON ABC  New On-Air Campaign, "Ready, Set, View" Launches August 1 In anticipation of the "The View" Season 12 launch, live, SEPTEMBER 2 (11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon, ET) on the ABC Television Network, here (in no particular order) are 12 random viewer responses as to why they love "The View".       (Read More)

CBS SPORTS AND SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE AGREE TO BLOCKBUSTER 15 YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION  CBS Sports has reached a historic 15-year contract extension with the Southeastern Conference to broadcast its football and basketball games, it was announced today by Sean McManus, President, CBS News and Sports and Mike Slive, Commissioner of the SEC.       (Read More)

UPCOMING GUESTS ON THE "LATE SHOW with DAVID LETTERMAN"       (Read More)

'THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO' LISTINGS       (Read More)

SCHEDULED GUESTS ON ABC'S "JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE," AUGUST 25-29       (Read More)

LISTINGS FOR "LATE NIGHT WITH CONAN O'BRIEN"       (Read More)

UPCOMING GUESTS ON "THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON"       (Read More)

CBS ANNOUNCES 11 TEAMS FOR THE 13TH INSTALLMENT OF "THE AMAZING RACE" PREMIERING SEPT. 28

New York, N.Y.  August 19th, 2008.      The 11 Teams set to compete in THE AMAZING RACE 13 will travel over 30,000 miles, spanning five continents in 23 days, all starting from the world famous Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, site of the 1932 and 1984 Olympics.  THE AMAZING RACE 13 premieres Sunday, Sept. 28 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.  Phil Keoghan is the host.   

The 13th installment of THE AMAZING RACE will feature a variety of firsts, including: Teams traveling to a real-life water world where its inhabitants live upon a floating city; first time visits for the Race to locations such as Cambodia and Kazakhstan; and one Team makes an unprecedented mistake on the road that ultimately prohibits them from joining their fellow Racers at the finish line. 

The cast also features couples in various stages of their lives - married beekeepers who have been together for years, a married but separated couple looking to rebuild their marriage, a newly dating couple still getting to know each other and best friends who are comic book aficionados and describe the Race as "the ultimate game on the biggest game board you can imagine".

THE AMAZING RACE was just nominated for its sixth straight Emmy Award for Outstanding Reality Competition Program, which the globe-trotting series has taken home five years in a row.

Following are the 11 teams, listed in no particular order:

TERENCE GERCHBERG - Occupation: Running Coach. Age: 35. Hometown: New York. N.Y.. & SARAH LESHNER - Occupation: Wall Street Investment Analyst. Age: 31. Hometown: New York. Relationship: NEWLY DATING. 

This Team is determined to prove to themselves they belong together.  They are well traveled and both enjoy physical activities and pushing each other to succeed.  Either way, this adventure will definitely be a journey that could make or break them.

MARISA AXELROD - Occupation: Student. Age: 22. Hometown: Spartanburg, S.C. & BROOKE JACKSON - Occupation: Graphic Designer. Age: 24. Hometown: Columbia, S.C. Relationship: SOUTHERN BELLES. 

These charming southern belles are best friends and are up for any challenge.  They want to prove to the world that they're not just cute blondes and that they can be athletic and fierce competitors.

ANDREW LAPPITT - Occupation: Student. Age: 22. Hometown: Tucson, Ariz. & DAN HONIG - Occupation: Hotel Manager Trainee. Age: 23. Hometown: Wilmington, Del. Relationship: FRATERNITY BROTHERS.  

Life couldn't be any better for these fraternity brothers.  Andrew and Dan met while attending Arizona State University and the last four years have been filled with good times.  Some of the Teams have referred to them as "Team Superbad."  These two say they can talk their way in or out of anything by cracking jokes and keeping the mood light.  Look for them to always keep things entertaining in their own special way.

AJA BENTON - Occupation: Aspiring Actress. Age: 25. Hometown: Los Angeles. & TY WHITE - Occupation: Banker. Age: 25. Hometown: West Bloomfield, Mich. Relationship: DATING LONG DISTANCE. 

This long distance dating couple is looking for an opportunity to be together for an extended period of time.  They've been dating for nine months, living in two separate cities and the longest time they've spent together was last Christmas for two weeks. They feel that the Race will help them determine if they can truly handle living together on a daily basis. 

MARK YTURRALDE  - Occupation: Treasurer of Comic-Con. Age: 41. Hometown: San Diego. & BILL KAHLER - Occupation: Student Aid Administrator. Age: 42. Hometown: San Diego. Relationship: BEST FRIENDS 

These comic book aficionados are determined to be the most strategic team ever to compete in the Race.  Mark and Bill, friends for over 23 years, first met at a science fiction club and have been bonding over their love for comics and games ever since.  Mark says that he "wears geek like a badge of honour".  

TONI IMBIMBO - Occupation: Accounting Consultant. Age: 51. Hometown: Woodside, Calif. & DALLAS IMBIMBO - Occupation: Student. Age: 22. Hometown: Woodside, Calif. Relationship: MOTHER/SON

Toni and Dallas have always been there for each other and will let nothing come between them.  These two are hoping the Race will provide them with some quality family time they've been missing out on since Dallas has been away at college - and maybe they can win a million dollars along the way.

NICK SPANGLER - Occupation: Actor. Age: 22. Hometown: New York, N.Y.. & STARR SPANGLER - Occupation: Former NFL Cheerleader. Age: 21. Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas. Relationship: BROTHER/SISTER

This brother/sister team will stop at nothing to win the Race.  Both are extremely driven and competitive, especially with one another.  They admit to being over-zealous when a prize is involved - even if it's only bragging rights. They're excited to use this to their advantage on the race. 

ANITA JONES - Occupation: Retired Paralegal. Age: 63. Hometown: Eugene, Ore. & ARTHUR JONES - Occupation: Playground Maintenance. Age: 61. Hometown: Eugene, Ore. Relationship: MARRIED BEEKEEPERS         

Anita and Arthur can't wait to make the Race their next big adventure. This energetic couple is open hearted and free spirited. They make and sell their own honey and recently purchased an organic blueberry farm. They have known each other for over 26 years and have been married for almost 14 years. Their blended family and children are the most important part of their lives.

KELLY CRABB - Occupation: Sales Representative. Age: 26. Hometown: Houston, Texas. & CHRISTY COOK - Occupation: Business Development. Age: 26. Hometown: Austin, Texas. Relationship: DIVORCEES.  

Kelly and Christy are best friends that will never settle for second best.  These two go-getters have been through a lot in the last year and want to prove that they can overcome anything. Kelly, having been a collegiate dancer; and Christy, a collegiate cheerleader, are physically fit and are up for the challenges the Race will bring.

KEN GREENE - Occupation: Home Builder/Ex-NFL Player. Age: 51. Hometown: San Diego. & TINA GREENE - Occupation: President BioPharmMed. Age: 48. Hometown: Tampa, Fla. Relationship: SEPARATED.

This married couple is looking to reconnect on the Race. They've been separated and living on different coasts for several months and are ready to put their marriage back together.  Ken, an ex-NFL star who played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Diego Chargers, was also a college football assistant coach.  He is currently a home builder.  He is competitive, athletic and says his problem-solving skills will help them win the race. He thinks Tina is too controlling and should relax a bit more, but anticipates the Race will help them learn to appreciate their differences.

ANTHONY MAROTTA - Occupation: Mortgage Broker. Age: 32. Hometown: Los Angeles. & STEPHANIE KACANDES - Occupation: Financial Saleswoman. Age:  32. Hometown: Los Angeles. Relationship: DATING.

Back together again after a year-long break-up, Anthony says he will propose to Stephanie if they make it through the Race.  Even though they've overcome many of their differences, their constant bickering would suggest otherwise.

THE AMAZING RACE 13 will send 11 teams - each comprised of two people who have a pre-existing relationship with one another - on a trek around the world for approximately 30 days.  At every destination, each couple will have to compete in a series of challenges - some mental and some physical - and only when the tasks have been completed will they learn their next destination.  Couples who are farthest behind will gradually be eliminated as the contest progresses, with the first team to arrive at the final destination winning $1 million.

 

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SOPHINA BROWN JOINS THE CAST OF "NUMB3RS" AS A SERIES REGULAR

LOS ANGELES, Ca.  August 20th, 2008. - Sophina Brown will join the cast of NUMB3RS as a series regular this season.  NUMB3RS has its fifth season premiere Friday, Oct. 3 (10:00-11:00 PM/ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

Brown will play the team's newest agent, Nikki Betancourt, a tough, street-smart ex-LAPD officer and full-blown adrenaline junkie who got her law degree at night school.  Nikki may be new to the team, but she's not a rookie, and her method of handling cases won't always mesh with how Don (Rob Morrow) likes to run his team.

Brown was most recently seen in the role of Raina Troy on the CBS drama series "Shark."  One of her other television credits also includes a previous guest starring role on NUMB3RS.  Brown's other small-screen credits include a recurring role in "Chappelle's Show" and guest-starring roles in the CBS series "Without a Trace," "Hack," "The Education of Max Bickford" and the daytime drama "As the World Turns." She has also guest-starred in "Law & Order," "Law & Order: SVU," "Strangers with Candy" and "Twins." Among Brown's theater credits are the role of Nala in the Broadway production of "The Lion King," the role of Carmen in the national tour of "Fame: The Musical" and roles in regional productions of "Jesus Christ Superstar," "As You Like It" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Her feature film credits include "Because I Said So".

 

 

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LAURENCE FISHBURNE JOINS THE CAST OF "CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION"

LOS ANGELES, Ca.  August 18th, 2008. - Oscar nominee and Emmy and Tony Award winner Laurence Fishburne ("What's Love Got To Do With It," "The Matrix," "Miss Evers' Boys") will join the cast of the CBS Paramount Network Television and Jerry Bruckheimer Television series, CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, on the CBS Television Network.  His character will debut in this season's ninth episode.

Fishburne will play a former pathologist who is now working as an itinerant college lecturer, teaching a course in criminalistics. His focus is on understanding criminal behavior, how and why people commit acts of violence - tendencies he disturbingly sees within himself.  In the course of a murder investigation, he comes into contact with the CSI team and ultimately joins the Las Vegas Crime Lab as a Level-1 CSI. 

"CBS asked us, 'Who's at the top of your dream list?' say CSI executive producers Carol Mendelsohn and Naren Shankar.  "Without hesitation, we said Laurence Fishburne. He is a powerful and intense actor, with an incredible range.  We had the opportunity to see Mr. Fishburne in 'Thurgood' on Broadway a few weeks ago, and it was a truly profound experience.  The actor disappeared and Thurgood Marshall was standing there on the stage.  Mr. Fishburne is also a talented writer and director.  If you distill CSI down to its essence, it's a collaboration-and we are so looking forward to collaborating with Mr. Fishburne.  For all of us at CSI, this is truly a dream."  

"I am elated and delighted to be joining the cast of CSI," says Fishburne. "I look forward to a wonderful collaboration with the creative and talented team of such a successful and distinguished show," he added.

 

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CBS'S "THE PRICE IS RIGHT," TELEVISION'S LONGEST-RUNNING GAME SHOW, WITH HOST DREW CAREY, TO HAVE 37TH SEASON PREMIERE ON MONDAY, SEPT. 22

Burbank, Ca.   August 18th, 2008.               CBS's THE PRICE IS RIGHT, television's longest-running game show, with host Drew Carey, will have its 37th season premiere Monday, Sept. 22 (11:00 AM-12:00 Noon, ET; 10:00-11:00 AM, PT), on the CBS Television Network. 

The new season will find some of Price's classic games updated and more money to be won, as well as a brand-new game added to the lineup.  In addition, the set has been given a fresher look, and for the first time in daytime, the show will be aired in HD.

This season is the first time the money in the daytime bonus spin on The Wheel has increased since the bonus spin was introduced nearly 30 years ago.  After first hitting $1 on the Wheel (and winning $1,000), the contestant can win $25,000 (up from $10,000) on a bonus spin if he lands on the $1 spot again.  And if he lands on one of the green spaces instead of the $1 spot during the bonus spin, he could win $10,000 (up from $5,000).

 

 

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NEW STUDENTS, CELEBRITY CONTESTANTS AND MILLION-DOLLAR WINNERS ON “ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5^th GRADER?”

Los Angeles, Ca.  August 20th, 2008.  As summer vacation comes to a close, school bells are ringing across the country, and it’s time for a new batch of students, contestants and celebrities to take the $1 million challenge this fall on ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5^th GRADER? airing Fridays (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. 

Host Jeff Foxworthy returns to the head of the class to lead a new batch of 5^th graders that will test their smarts alongside celebrity contestants competing throughout the season for their favorite charities. Season Three kicks off with supermodel Kathy Ireland and Georgia State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox going for the gold star in the special two-hour season premiere Friday, Sept. 5 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT).

Other notables attending class this season include TV personality Star Jones (“The View”), actress Jennie Garth (“Beverly Hills, 90210”), KISS front man Gene Simmons, boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard, zookeeper Jack Hanna and actor Dean Cain (“Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman”). Also going for extra credit and hoping to reach the top prize of $1 million are astronaut Robert “Hoot” Gibson, “Jeopardy!” record-holder Ken Jennings and Nobel Prize Laureate George Fitzgerald Smoot III.  

This season’s new class of 5^th graders includes:

·        Bryce, 10, from Rockwall, TX, loves math and wants to be a lawyer or accountant when he grows-up.

 

·        Francesca, 10, from San Diego, CA, says science is her favorite subject and aspires to be a veterinarian or a missionary.

 

·        Jenna, 10, from Baltimore, MD, likes English and science and dreams of becoming a marine biologist.

 

·        Jonathan, 9, from Los Angeles, CA, considers lunch to be his favorite subject and wants to be a scientist or an inventor one day.

 

 

·        Olivia, 10, from Los Angeles, CA, loves history, art and wants to design video games when she gets older.   

 

 

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200 MILLION WATCH OLYMPICS ON NBC UNIVERSAL NETWORKS

BEIJING – August 19, 2008 – Through 11 days, NBCU's Olympic coverage has reached 200 million people and more than 83 percent of all U.S. television homes. It has also delivered the most dominant margins of victory for any network in any primetime week in the history of Nielsen's People Meter sample, which dates back 21 years to September 1987.

Through just 11 days, the networks of NBC Universal already have reached 200 million total viewers, 12 million more than the first 11 days for Athens (188 million) and 4 million more than the Atlanta Games (196 million), which was the most-viewed television event in U.S. history. The 11-day total for these Games makes it the fourth most-viewed television event in U.S. history. Additionally, 94 million of the of the nation's 112.8 million television homes (83 percent) have tuned into the Olympics.

MOST VIEWED EVENTS IN U.S. TV HISTORY:
1. 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics, 209 million (17 days)
2. 1994 Lillehammer Winter Olympics, 204 million (16 days)
3. 2004 Athens Summer Olympics, 203 million (17 days)
4. *2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, 200 million (*through 11 days)
5. 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics, 194 million (17 days)

NBC DOMINATES IN PRIMETIME: For the week of August 11-17, NBC generated more than four times the household rating of the No. 2 network, and more than five times the total viewers of the No. 2 network to claim the biggest week-long wins in those categories for any network since Nielsen initiated its current People Meter sample in September 1987.

· According to data provided by Nielsen Media Research, NBC averaged 28.7 million viewers overall and a 16.8 rating/28 share in households for the primetime week of August 11-17. Those averages were strong enough to deliver record margins over the week's No. 2 finishes of 463 percent in total viewers (28.7 million vs. CBS's 5.1 million) and 394 percent in households (16.8 vs. CBS's 3.4).

· NBC also beat the combined ABC-CBS-Fox results in these categories and again by margins that are the biggest for any network in People Meter history, 143 percent in total viewers (28.7 million vs. 11.8 million) and 113 percent in household rating (16.8 vs. 7.9).

The Beijing Olympic 11-day average primetime viewership is 29.6 million, 13 percent ahead of Athens in 2004 (26.2 million). NBC's average of a 17.2 rating, 30 share in households is the best through the second Monday for a Summer Olympics outside the U.S. since Barcelona in 1992 (18.4/35) and is a nine percent jump from Athens in 2004 (15.8/28).

Monday night garnered 67 million total viewers in primetime and 26.4 million average viewers, a two percent gain from the comparable night in Athens (25.9 million). The night earned a 15.8 rating/26 share, which is off just four percent from Athens' comparable night (16.4/27) which featured the USA's Jeremy Wariner's gold medal in the 400m.

TAMI FOR SUNDAY: The TAMi (Total Audience Measurement Index) measures the 3600 hours of programming during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, including Television (P2+ reach), Online (Unique Users), Mobile (WAP unique users and Mobile VOD unique users) and TV VOD (unique users). Below is the TAMi measurement through Sunday, Aug. 17:

Sunday, Aug. 17: 107.2 million
TV: 101.9 million, ONLINE: 4.8 million, MOBILE: 506k, TV VOD: n/a
Saturday, Aug. 16: 107.9 million
Friday, Aug. 15: 95.0 million
Thursday, Aug. 14: 101.4 million
Wednesday, Aug. 13: 100.9 million
Tuesday, Aug. 12: 105.0 million
Monday, Aug. 11: 103.1 million
Sunday, Aug. 10: 113.0 million
Saturday, Aug. 9: 97.8 million
Friday, Aug. 8: 74.6 million

 

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YATES RACING AND NBC ANNOUNCE DRIVER TRAVIS KVAPIL TO DRIVE No. 28 'KNIGHT RIDER' FORD AT BRISTOL

CONCORD, N.C. - August 19, 2008 - Yates Racing and NBC announced today that in a unique partnership between Ford Motor Company and NBC, Travis Kvapil will pilot the No. 28 "Knight Rider" Ford for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway on August 23rd. The sponsorship by NBC of the No. 28 Ford comes in anticipation of the television series premiere of NBC's "Knight Rider" on Wednesday, September 24th at 8:00 p.m. EST.

On the heels of NBC's hit movie, the iconic 1980's television classics comes roaring back to life as a reinvented, updated and super-charged action series showcasing the new KITT (Knight Industries Three Thousand). As absolutely the coolest car ever created, KITT is equipped with "AI" (artificial intelligence) that is capable of hacking into almost any system. The vehicle's weapon system matches that of a jet fighter, its body is capable of transforming into other vehicles, and the car uses sophisticated holographic imagery to elude villains.

"This is such an awesome sponsor for our team at Bristol," commented Kvapil. "The television series 'Knight Rider' is a show that everyone can get hooked on. I think it's really cool that NBC has chosen to reinvent the series for the Fall line-up. The best part about the show was always the car, KITT, and this is amazing that I get to drive a version of KITT for the night race at Bristol. It's every guy's dream to feel like they are an action hero and I get to have that chance under the lights of Bristol with our No. 28 'Knight Rider' Ford."

"The stealth look and feel of the car coupled with Travis Kvapil at the helm has us very excited about this race," said John Miller, Chief Marketing Officer, NBC Universal Television Group President, The NBC Agency. "This event exemplifies the adrenalin and action the 'Knight Rider' series will deliver and illustrates the strength and compatibility of our sponsor partnership with Ford."

The premiere of the No. 28 "Knight Rider" Ford will take place on August 23rd, 2008 for the Sharpie 500 when Kvapil and his Yates Racing teammate, David Gilliland, travel to Bristol Motor Speedway for the 24th race of the 2008 Sprint Cup Series season. The Sharpie 500 will be broadcast on ESPN Saturday, August 23rd with television coverage beginning at 7:00 pm EST and radio coverage provided by the Performance Racing Network.

Kvapil has achieved three top-10 finishes and four top-15 finishes this season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup series within the first 22 starts of the year. Kvapil has also completed 99.5 percent of the total laps possible this season and is currently 23rd in the driver point standings.

The No. 28 "Knight Rider" Ford has a paint scheme that promotes the super-charged Mustang from the show, KITT. The Mustang on "Knight Rider" boasts doors that open vertically, a top speed of 377 mph and, most importantly turbo-boost.

Gary Scott Thompson ("The Fast and The Furious," "Las Vegas"), David Bartis ("Heist," "The O.C.") and Doug Liman ("Mr. and Mrs. Smith," "The Bourne Identity") serve as executive producers on "Knight Rider," which stars Justin Bruening ("Cold Case"), Deanna Russo ("NCIS"), Sydney Tamiia Poitier ("Veronica Mars"), Paul Campbell ("Battlestar Galactica"), Yancey Arias ("Kingpin") and Bruce Davison ("Breach"). Smith Cho ("Blades of Glory") recurs. Based on characters created by Glen Larson, "Knight Rider" is from Universal Media Studios and Dutch Oven Productions.

 Yates Racing operates two motorsports teams in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Formerly known as Robert Yates Racing, the team is owned by Doug Yates, who took the reins after his father, Robert Yates, retired at the end of the 2007 season, and partnered with Max Jones; a former road racer and long-time championship General Manager. The 2008 season will mark the 20th year of competition for the Ford team. During those years, the organization had a total of 57 wins, 48 poles, 269 top-five finishes, 427 top-ten finishes, and a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship. Yates Racing will field two Ford Fusions in the 2008 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, with drivers Travis Kvapil and David Gilliland.

 

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NBC ANNOUNCES COURTNEY B. VANCE WILL JOIN REAL-LIFE WIFE ANGELA BASSETT ON 'ER' FOR MULTI -EPISODE STORY ARC DURING 15TH AND FINAL SEASON

BURBANK, Calif. – August 18, 2008 - NBC announced that Courtney B. Vance will join NBC's long running show "ER" (Thursdays, 10-11 p.m. ET/PT) in multi-episode story arc during season 15. Vance will be playing the role of Russell Banfield, husband to Cate Banfield played by real-life wife, Angela Bassett. "ER" will mark the first time Vance and Bassett will be acting together.

"We are excited to see the on-screen chemistry and emotion this incredibly talented husband and wife team will bring to our show," said executive producer David Zabel. "Fans are in for a treat and we couldn't be more thrilled that they chose ER to make their first appearance together."

Vance is perhaps best known for his five-year run on NBC's drama "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" and was nominated for the NAACP Image Award (Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series), for his role as New York Assistant District Attorney Ron Carver. Vance's talents also translate well to the big screen and are apparent in his roles in films such as Clint Eastwood's "Space Cowboys," Penny Marshall's "The Preacher's Wife" opposite Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington, John McTiernan's "The Hunt for Red October" and the big budget thriller "D-Tox." He was also seen in Robert Altman's small town mystery, "Cookie's Fortune," as well as "Huckleberry Finn." Vance's other feature film work includes "Hamburger Hill;" "Love and Action in Chicago," which he also co-produced; "The Last Supper," his critically-acclaimed portrayal of Bobby Seale in Gramercy Pictures "Panther;" and opposite Forest Whitaker in Tim Story's "Patriots."

On the small screen, Vance starred in the Emmy-nominated production of "The Boys Next Door," as well as the Emmy-nominated television movie, "The Tuskegee Airmen" opposite Laurence Fishburne and Andre Braugher. He starred alongside Charles S. Dutton in the feature "Blind Faith," for which he received an Independent Spirit Award nomination as Best Actor. He also appeared in the production of "12 Angry Men" alongside Jack Lemmon and George C. Scott; the television movie "Ambushed;" "The Naked City;" "Whitewash;" "The Clarence Brandley Story" as Clarence Brandley; and "Percy & Thunder" alongside James Earl Jones. Vance also received recognition for his starring role in the television movie, "The Affair," in the form of a Cable Ace Award nomination for Best Actor -- and also his brilliant performance in the Emmy-nominated production of August Wilson's "The Piano Lesson."

Most recently, Vance and wife Angela Bassett completed their first book, Friends: A Love Story that chronicles their story about healthy relationships, love and family.

 

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ABC'S "ALL MY CHILDREN" ANNOUNCES CASTING SEARCH FOR A REAL LIFE WAR VETERAN, AND SHOW PARTNERS WITH USA CARES FOR STORYLINE CONSULTANCY

New York, N.Y.,  Monday, August 18, 2008. - ABC's "All My Children" is conducting a nationwide search to cast a real life Iraqi War veteran to play a new role on the Emmy® Award-winning daytime drama. The announcement was made today by Brian Frons, President, Daytime, Disney-ABC Television Group. The show has also partnered with USA Cares, an organization founded to support post 9/11 veterans and their families, which will serve as a resource for storyline research and guidance.

"Casting a real life war veteran in the role of Brot will give this character an authentic and specific personal perspective, combined with a unique sensibility. We are honored to be working with USA Cares. Their first hand experiences and research are an invaluable resource for us and ensure that we tell this story honestly and accurately," says executive producer Julie Hanan Carruthers.

"We are pleased to use our five and one-half years of experience working with post 9/11 veterans and their families to bring realism to this story," said Bill Nelson, executive director of USA Cares. "We hope that this show will help the public better understand the true costs of keeping America safe and the personal price our servicemen and women pay every day to keep it that way."

"All My Children" has a longstanding history as the first daytime drama to tell topical and socially relevant stories. In the 1970's the show was the first to tell a story of the Viet Nam War. Nearly four decades later, show headwriter Charles Pratt, Jr. revisits the subject, now surrounding the lives of soldiers who have served in the war in Iraq. Mr. Pratt's creation of Army Lieutenant Taylor Thompson (Beth Ehlers), his first since joining the show in July 2008, represents daytime's first female character who is a soldier serving in a current war.

Lt. Taylor Thompson is from a military family who comes to Pine Valley on medical leave from active duty in Iraq. She is delivering service medals to Dr. Frankie Hubbard (Cornelius Smith Jr.), who also served in Iraq with Taylor. While in town she meets Dr. Jake Martin (Ricky Paull Goldin), an anti-war doctor who recently returned from Africa with Doctors without Borders. The show will depict two social and political points of view through these characters as their relationship builds. Taylor eventually tells Jake about Brot, a man she loved and who fought with her in Iraq -- and who, she believes, died in combat. The two characters will eventually find their way back to each other as their respective back stories are revealed.

Male veterans who are interested in submitting themselves for this role should send a photo and contact information to "All My Children" casting director Judy Blye Wilson, 320 West 66th Street, New York, NY 10023.

 

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 "THE 2008 ALMA AWARDS®" FEATURING TODAY'S HOTTEST STARS,
AIRS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 ON ABC  

New York. N.Y.      Monday, August 18, 2008.    Hosted by Eva Longoria Parker, with Special Tributes to America Ferrera, Linda Ronstadt, Shakira and Narciso Rodriguez "The 2008 ALMA Awards® " taped a star-studded event on August 17 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, CA. The annual show which recognizes and celebrates the outstanding artistic achievement of Latinos in film, television and music, airs FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 (8:00-10:00 p.m., ET/PT), on the ABC Television Network.

Kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month, the show is presented by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) - the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S.

America Ferrera was named Chevy Entertainer of the Year, not only for her prominent role in the highly successful television series "Ugly Betty," but also for her work off-screen as a leader inspiring young people around the country to participate in the political process.  She has successfully used her well-deserved time in the spotlight to make a positive impact on others.  She embodies the spirit of the ALMA Awards and NCLR - portraying a positive Latina character on television and displaying the strong diversity of our country.

BeBe Winans, Eden Espinosa, Wynonna Judd, Mariachi los Camperos de Nati Cano and Lucero performed to honor Linda Ronstadt -- who received the Trailblazer Award for her contributions to American music, inspiring artists across generations and musical genres.

Shakira was presented with the Humanitarian Award for her work in early childhood education.  During her presentation, Shakira surprised 17-year-old Pamela Jimenez Cardenas by recognizing her advocacy efforts to support a global campaign for education.  

The Special Achievement in Outstanding Director of a Made-for-TV Movie was presented to Kenny Ortega for "High School Musical 2," and the Special Achievement in Fashion went to Narciso Rodriguez.

Talent participating included (in alphabetical order): Paula Abdul, Jessica Alba, Cheryl Burke, Kate del Castillo, Helio Castroneves, Cristián de la Fuente, Oscar De La Hoya, Placido Domingo, Zac Efron, America Ferrera, Daisy Fuentes, Selena Gomez, David  Henrie, Jake T. Austin, Terrance Howard, Mark Indelicato, Kym Johnson, MARIO, Joey Medina, Carlos Mencia, Enrique Murciano, Oscar Nunez, Edward James Olmos, Kenny Ortega, Ana Ortiz, Danny Pino, Tony, Plana, Adam Rodriguez, Roselyn Sanchez, Ryan Seacrest, Jon Secada, Charlie Sheen, Taboo, Ashley Tisdale, Edyta Sliwinska and Sofia Vergara.

Musical performances included the Cheetah Girls, Jon Secada & Brian McKnight, AB Quintanilla & The Kumbia All-Stars, Lisa Lisa and MARIO, Sergio Mendes and Will.I.Am. Plus, Cheech and Chong performed as a prelude to their 25 year Reunion Tour.

The ALMA Awards was created by NCLR in 1995 as part of its strategy to promote the diverse, accurate and balanced portrayals of Latinos in the media and the enhancement of the Latino image in the entertainment industry. The show is an example of how inclusion strengthens the entertainment industry, just as diversity strengthens the country.
 
This year the executive producers are Michael Levitt, Janet Murguía, Eva Longoria Parker and David Chavez. For more information on "The 2008 ALMA Awards®," please visit www.almaawards.com.

The complete list of 2008 ALMA Award Winners are listed below:

Non-broadcast awards:

Outstanding Comedy Special - Tie win
"George Lopez: America's Mexican" (HBO)
"Alex Reymundo: Hick-Spanic Live in Albuquerque" (Showtime)

Outstanding Made-for TV Documentary
"American Experience: Roberto Clemente" (PBS)

Outstanding Career Achievement Award
David Wader, Stage Manager

Special Achievement Award - Outstanding Spanish Language Motion Picture
"La Misma Luna"

Outstanding Director of a Television Series
Linda Mendoza, "Betty's Baby Bump" on "Ugly Betty" (ABC)

Outstanding Female Performance in a Comedy Television Series
Judy Reyes - "Scrubs" (NBC)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series Television Series
Julie Gonzalo - "Eli Stone" (ABC)

Outstanding Writing for a Television Series
Gloria Calderon Kellett, "How I Met Everyone Else" on "How I Met Your Mother" (CBS)

Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series Television Series
Edward James Olmos - "Battlestar Galactica" (Sci Fi Channel)

Outstanding Performance in a Daytime Drama Series
Kamar de los Reyes - "One Life to Live" (ABC)


Telecast awards:

Chevy Entertainer of the Year
America Ferrera

NCLR ALMA Humanitarian Award
Shakira


Trailblazer Award
Linda Ronstadt

Special Achievement in Fashion
Narciso Rodriguez

Special Achievement Award - Outstanding Director of a Made-for-TV Movie
Kenny Ortega, "High School Musical 2" (Disney Channel)

Outstanding Performance of a Latino/A-Led Ensemble in a Television Series
"Ugly Betty" (ABC)

Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series Television Series
Roselyn Sanchez - "Without a Trace" (CBS)

Outstanding Male Performance in a Comedy Television Series
Charlie Sheen - "Two and a Half Men" (CBS)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Television Series
Jorge Garcia - "Lost" (ABC)

 

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"THE 60TH ANNUAL PRIMETIME EMMY® AWARDS" TO FEATURE "TELEVISION'S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS" DURING LIVE CEREMONY, SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC

New York, N.Y.  Monday, August 18, 2008.             Fans Can See Clips and Vote for Favorites at emmys.abc.com As a special element in celebrating the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' "60th Annual Primetime Emmy® Awards"-broadcast live, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on ABC - "Television's Most Memorable Moments" will be highlighted as chosen from a nationwide internet vote.

For this one-of-a-kind celebration, 20 of the most memorable comedy moments and 20 of the most memorable dramatic moments in television history were chosen by Ken Ehrlich Productions (producers of this year's Emmy Awards), Television Academy leadership and a select group of the nation's top television journalists. Beginning August 18 and ending September 15 (12:00 p.m., ET) at emmys.abc.com, fans of television will be able to see a clip from each of these shows and vote for their favorites. On Emmy night, the Top 5 in each category will be presented and the two winning "Most Memorable Moments" will be revealed prior to the presentation of Emmys for the "Outstanding Comedy Series" and the "Outstanding Drama Series."

"We wanted to give television fans an interactive experience for this year's Emmy show, and what could be better than to ask them to weigh in on what are television's most memorable moments? It's a perfect opportunity both to celebrate the history of television and at the same time to introduce new generations to some of the medium's most important events," said Ken Ehrlich, executive producer of "The 60th Annual Primetime Emmy® Awards."

From The Beatles' first appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show" to the entire Cosby family singing a Ray Charles song, from hearing the 'Goodnights' on "The Waltons" to the disappearance of the island on "Lost," fans will be able to narrow 40 of "Television's Most Memorable Moments" down to just two.

Clips from the following series, specials, movies of the week and miniseries have been posted to emmys.abc.com for internet voting to determine the all-time favorite comedy and drama moments:

COMEDY/VARIETY MOMENTS

"ALL IN THE FAMILY"
"AMERICAN IDOL"
"ELLEN"
"FRIENDS"
"I LOVE LUCY"
"MASH"
"MORK & MINDY"
"MURPHY BROWN"
"NEWHART"
"ROWAN AND MARTIN'S LAUGH-IN"
"SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE"
"SEINFELD"
"SEX AND THE CITY"
"SOUTH PARK"
"THE CAROL BURNETT SHOW"
"THE COSBY SHOW"
"THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW"
"THE HONEYMOONERS"
"THE MARY TYLER MOORE SHOW"
"THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JOHNNY CARSON"

DRAMATIC MOMENTS

"THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MISS JANE PITTMAN"
"BRIAN'S SONG"
"BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER"
"DALLAS"
"DUEL"
"DYNASTY"
"ER"
"GREY'S ANATOMY"
"LA LAW"
"LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE"
"LOST"
"MIAMI VICE"
"MOONLIGHTING"
"ROOTS"
"STAR TREK"
"THE FUGITIVE"
"THE SOPRANOS"
"THE TWILIGHT ZONE"
"THE WALTONS"
"THE X-FILES"

 

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"THE VIEW" SEASON 12 PREMIERES LIVE, SEPTEMBER 2 ON ABC

New York, N.Y.   Thursday, August 14, 2008.      New On-Air Campaign, "Ready, Set, View" Launches August 1 In anticipation of the "The View" Season 12 launch, live, SEPTEMBER 2 (11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon, ET) on the ABC Television Network, here (in no particular order) are 12 random viewer responses as to why they love "The View."

"I love to watch 'The View' because.....

1. It makes me proud to see a show with women discussing what's important to me."
2. I like talking back to the television. If they respond in kind, I feel validated. If they don't, I figure I just got lost in the cross talk."
3. I need to know how to win an argument with my mother about current issues."
4. You never know what the ladies will say."
5. I want to see what Elisabeth is wearing."  
6. I need something to talk about around the water cooler."
7. I want to catch news I might have missed."
8. I love the interaction between the ladies."
9. It reminds me of sitting down with my girlfriends and talking about everything."
10. I want to find out more about the celebrities I love."
11. It makes me forget my problems."
12. 'Hot Topics' is my favorite part of the show."

On Monday, August 18 the ABC Television Network will begin airing a fun, original promotional spot featuring all five co-hosts anticipating the start of their 12th season. Set to the classic Peter Gunn theme, the spot closes with the tagline "Ready, Set, View."

Beginning, Monday, August 25 viewers can log on to the show's official website (abc.com/theview) for a retrospective looking back at 12 of the most outrageous, hysterical, side-splitting moments from this past season.

Scheduled guests for September 1-5 are as follows (subject to change):

MON., SEPT., 1 (OAD: 7/31/08) - Pamela Anderson ("Pam: Girl on the Loose"); musical guest Toby Keith; behind the scenes of Whoopi's opening night in Broadway's "Xanadu."

TUES., SEPT., 2 - "The View" returns live for Season 12; performance from New Kids on the Block.

WED., SEPT. 3 - Maura Tierney ("ER" and Broadway's "Three Changes"); Adele performs.

THUR, SEPT. 4 - Terrence Howard; Audrina Patridge ("The Hills").

FRI., SEPT. 5 - Adrian Grenier ("Entourage"); Nicey Nash ("Do Not Disturb").

 

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CBS SPORTS AND SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE AGREE TO BLOCKBUSTER 15 YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION

CBS Sports has reached a historic 15-year contract extension with the Southeastern Conference to broadcast its football and basketball games, it was announced today by Sean McManus, President, CBS News and Sports and Mike Slive, Commissioner of the SEC.

In the new agreement, beginning with the 2009-10 season, CBS Sports continues to be the exclusive national network broadcaster of SEC home football games, including the SEC Championship Game. CBS Sports will showcase the top conference matchups each week of the package with the "SEC Game of the Week". The agreement also includes a prime time game and doubleheader opportunities.  In addition, CBS Sports continues its coverage of SEC regular-season basketball.

"This landmark deal allows THE SEC ON CBS to continue to be a cornerstone of our fall programming for many years to come," said McManus. "The agreement provides CBS Sports with the opportunity to showcase the excitement, pageantry and rich traditions of the SEC across all CBS platforms. We are thrilled to continue our long-standing relationship with one of the premiere conferences in the nation. "  

"The Southeastern Conference is proud to continue its association with CBS Sports," said Dr. Lee Todd, President of the University of Kentucky and the Southeastern Conference.  "This national network agreement provides a unique platform to share both the athletic and academic achievements of the 12 member institutions."

"The SEC is the gold standard in college athletics, and we are proud to be associated with this great conference and its outstanding administrators, coaches and student-athletes," said Mike Aresco, Executive Vice President, Programming, CBS Sports. "The length of this deal is a testament to the great brand that THE SEC ON CBS has become." 

"The Southeastern Conference is extremely pleased to extend its long-standing relationship with CBS Sports," added Slive.  THE SEC ON CBS enables the conference to continue its unique full, national network exposure.  We have enjoyed working with CBS Sports over the past 13 years and we are excited about our long-term future."

 

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UPCOMING GUESTS ON THE "LATE SHOW with DAVID LETTERMAN"

Thursday, Aug. 21                                Actor Will Ferrell; "Mythbusters" stars Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman

Friday, Aug. 22                                    Boston Celtics stars Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen; actress Jane Krakowski; musical guest Martha Wainwright

*Monday, Aug. 25                             Actor/comedian Tracy Morgan; reality television star Kim Kardashian; musical guest Solange

*Tuesday, Aug. 26                             Actor Don Cheadle; musical guests Little Anthony & the Imperials

*Wednesday, Aug. 27                        Actor Neil Patrick Harris from the CBS comedy series "How I Met Your Mother"; musical guest Nas

*Thursday, Aug. 28                            Musical guest Randy Houser

*Friday, Aug. 29                                 Actress Amy Sedaris; comedian Brian Regan

 

 

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'THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO' LISTINGS

XXMonday, August 25 – Guests include Senator John McCain, Olympic silver medal simmer Dara Torres and musical guest Juliana Hatfield

XXTuesday, August 26 – Guests include Norm MacDonald, Olympic gold medal gymnast Nastia Liukin and BB King

Wednesday, August 27 – Guests include Bill Maher and musical guest Low Vs Diamond

Thursday, August 28 – Musical guest Missy Higgins

Friday, August 29 – Guests include Arsenio Hall and musical guest Chuck Berry

Monday, September 1 – TBD

Tuesday, September 2 – Guests include Russell Brand

(X denotes changes/additions)

 

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SCHEDULED GUESTS ON ABC'S "JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE," AUGUST 25-29

AUGUST 25 (OAD 8/7)
1. Actor James Franco ("Pineapple Express")  2. Musician Tommy Lee ("Battleground Earth")  3. Musical guests From First to Last

AUGUST 26
1. Comedian/Actor Don Rickles   2.  New "Dancing with the Stars" cast member   3.  Musical Guests The Game

AUGUST 27
1.  Actor Don Cheadle     2. Actress Emma Stone   3.  Musical Guest Lady Antebellum

AUGUST 28
1. Actress Kristin Chenoweth ("Pushing Daisies")  2. Musical Guest Staind

AUGUST 29
1.  Actor/Musician Tyrese  ("Death Race") 2. Musical Guest Glen Campbell  

 

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LISTINGS FOR "LATE NIGHT WITH CONAN O'BRIEN"

UPDATED August 20

"LATE NIGHT WITH CONAN O'BRIEN" IS ON HIATUS FROM AUGUST 11 – AUGUST 22. ENJOY THE 2008 SUMMER OLYMPICS.

**Monday, August 25 – Show 2623 - Guests include Daniel Radcliffe and Steve Coogan, and musical guest The Hold Steady

Tuesday, August 26 – Show 2624 - Guests include Vin Diesel, Dave Attell, musical guest The Virgins

**Wednesday, August 27 – Show 2625 - Guests include Tiger Woods, Vanessa Minnillo, and Jimmy Carr

Thursday, August 28 – Show 2626 – Guests include musical guest Lykke Li

Friday, August 29 – Show 2627 – Guests include Bob Costas and Sophia Bush

**Monday, September 1 – Show 2577 – Guests include Steve Carell, Alyson Hannigan, and musical guest Duffy

**Tuesday, September 2 – Show 2628 – Guests include musical guest Ra Ra Riot

**Wednesday, September 3 – Show 2629 – Guests include Nicolas Cage, Vivica A. Fox, and musical guest Delta Spirit

**Thursday, September 4 – Show 2630 - Guests include Dr. Phil and musical guest Adele

**Friday, September 5 – Show 2631 – Guests include Christian Lander

(** denotes changes/additions)

 

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UPCOMING GUESTS ON "THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON"

Thursday, August 21                 Actor Tim Meadows, actress Betty White, actor Evan Handler; music by MGMT

Friday, August 22                     Actor and comedian Jeff Foxworthy; comedian Chelsea Handler 

Monday, August 25                  Actress Sigourney Weaver; author Stanley Bing; music by Three 6 Mafia

Tuesday, August 26                  Actor James McAvoy; comedian Bengt Washburn

Wednesday, August 27             Actor Billy Bob Thornton; actor Lewis Black; music by Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters

*Thursday, August 28            Actress Stockard Channing; actor/comedian Bill Engvall  

*Friday, August 29                 Actress Mary Steenburgen; magician Criss Angel

*Monday, Sept. 1                   Actress Julie Bowen; comedian Jonathan Winters; music by Priscilla Ahn

*Tuesday, Sept. 2                  Actress Katey Sagal; actor Nathan Fillion

*Wednesday, Sept. 3             Actress Maria Bello; comedian Steve Hofstetter

 

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