“FRINGE” AND “TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES” GO TO COLLEGE WITH INNOVATIVE SEASON PREMIERE SIMUL-STREAMS ONLINE AT FOX.COM            In an unprecedented event, FOX will stream the premieres of TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES and FRINGE exclusively for on-campus college students at www.fox.com.       (Read More)

"WORLD NEWS WITH CHARLES GIBSON" UNVEILS WEB-EXCLUSIVE CONTENT             Charles Gibson to Blog on "World Newser" beginning at the Democratic and Republican Conventions.       (Read More)

THE CW’S FASHIONS AN EARLIER PREMIERE DATE FOR NEW REALITY COMPETITION “STYLISTA” ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22 AT 9:00 PM            The CW Network announced today that the series premiere of its new high fashion reality competition “Stylista”       (Read More)

UNIVERSAL SPORTS BRINGS FIRST EVER MULTIPLATFORM BROADCAST OF PARALYMPIC GAMES TO U.S.             Universal Sports to provide the first-ever multiplatform broadcast coverage of the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games.       (Read More)

NBC TO BROADCAST SWIMMING WORLD & NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS              NBC Sports and Universal Sports will broadcast the 2009 World Swimming Championships from Rome and the 2009 USA Swimming National Championships (which will serve to qualify the U.S. team for the 2009 Worlds), as well as the National Championships in 2010 and 2011.       (Read More)

MICHAEL PHELPS: GREATEST OLYMPIC CHAMPION DVD ON SALE NOW             NBC Olympics is offering fans the chance to relive the greatest moments from the 2008 Beijing Olympics Games, including all eight of Michael Phelps' gold medal races, through a trio of DVDs available for sale on NBCOlympics.com.       (Read More)

DAVID BLAINE STUNS THE WORLD WITH ANOTHER EXTRAORDINARY,
DEATH-DEFYING ENDURANCE FEAT, ON "DAVID BLAINE: DIVE OF DEATH,"
LIVE FROM NEW YORK'S WOLLMAN RINK, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 ON ABC             David Blaine, known for his headline-making spectacles of physical, emotional and mental endurance, will live on the line - literally.       (Read More)

STAND UP TO CANCER             Luminaries from Entertainment, Sports, Music and Journalism Join Forces for Landmark Event Simultaneously Broadcast on ABC, CBS & NBC - September 5th at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.       (Read More)

"50 STATES IN 50 DAYS" ABC NEWS AND USA TODAY JOIN FORCES TO REPORT FROM EACH AND EVERY STATE IN THE UNION IN THE 50 DAYS LEADING UP TO THE HISTORIC 2008 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION             ABC News and USA TODAY will launch an unprecedented news project on Monday, September 15, to report from every state in the nation during the 50 days leading up to the presidential election.       (Read More)

EMMYS ANNOUNCE FIRST SET OF PRESENTERS FOR "THE 60th PRIMETIME EMMY® AWARDS,"AIRING SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC              The first set of presenters has been announced for "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards".       (Read More)

JASON MESNICK GETS A SECOND CHANCE AT LOVE WHEN HE STARS IN
"THE BACHELOR," RETURNING TO ABC IN JANUARY 2009             Millions of viewers were stunned when DeAnna Pappas rejected Jason Mesnick's proposal, as he dropped to one knee to profess his love in the season finale of "The Bachelorette".       (Read More)

CBS SPORTS' 2008-09 SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTED BY 49TH YEAR OF NFL, 54th YEAR OF THE MASTERS(R), 28TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR OF COLLEGE BASKETBALL, NCAA MEN'S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP, THE PGA CHAMPIONSHIP, COLLEGE FOOTBALL AND 41st YEAR OF U.S. OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS             CBS Sports' 2008-09 schedule features the most prominent lineup of events in sports television.       (Read More)

CBS SPORTS SERVES UP 2008 U.S. OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS              CBS Sports presents THE U.S. OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS, tennis' final grand slam of the year and the only one played in the United States.       (Read More)

CBS SPORTS ANNOUNCES BROADCAST PAIRINGS FOR 2008 NFL SEASON              The CBS Television Network begins its 49^th year of broadcasting the NFL on Sunday, Sept. 7.       (Read More)

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

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

THE "LATE SHOW" TOP TEN "Ways to Make the Democratic Convention More Fun"            (Read More)

MEGALYN ECHIKUNWOKE JOINS "CSI: MIAMI" AS A SERIES REGULAR

Los Angeles, Cal.  August 26th, 2008.            Megalyn Echikunwoke joins the cast of CSI: MIAMI as a series regular starring as the new medical examiner, Dr. Tara Price.  The seventh season of CSI: MIAMI premieres Monday, Sept. 22 (10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.  CSI: MIAMI also stars David Caruso, Emily Procter, Adam Rodriguez, Jonathan Togo, Rex Linn, Eva La Rue and Evan Ellingson.

"Megalyn Echikunwoke is an exciting addition to CSI: MIAMI," says Ann Donahue, one of the series' executive producers.  "She brings savvy and humor to her role of Dr. Tara Price, a young medical examiner whose methods are on the cutting edge of technology."

Echikunwoke was most recently seen in the series "The 4400."  Her additional television credits include "That '70s Show," "24," "Veronica Mars," "ER," "Supernatural," "Boston Public" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."

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GRAMMY-NOMINATED SONGWRITER KARA DIOGUARDI JOINS PAULA ABDUL, SIMON COWELL AND RANDY JACKSON AS JUDGE ON “AMERICAN IDOL” 

Los Angeles, Cal.   August 25th, 2008.            Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara DioGuardi has joined AMERICAN IDOL as a fourth judge.  She will sit alongside Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson at the judges’ table and use her background as an award-winning songwriter and producer to praise or critique the wannabe hopefuls throughout the competition.  The eighth season of AMERICAN IDOL premieres January, 2009, on FOX.

“We are turning the heat up on ‘Idol’ this year and are thrilled to welcome Kara to the judges’ table,” said creator and executive producer Simon Fuller.  “She is a smart, sassy lady, and one of America's most successful songwriters.  We know she will bring a new level of energy and excitement to the show.”

“We had originally intended for AMERICAN IDOL to have four judges,” said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz.  “We’ve seen from our international series that having a fourth judge creates a dynamic that benefits both the contestants and the viewers.”

Mike Darnell, President, Alternative Programming of FOX, added “For the past seven seasons, Paula has had to endure the experience of being the only woman at the judges’ table.  She’s been as an island of consideration and gentle criticism between Randy and Simon, offering her invaluable expertise as a performer and No. 1 artist to the thousands who have competed on AMERICAN IDOL.  With Kara by her side, Paula finally has some back-up and now there is going to be a lot more ‘girl power’ on the show.” 

One of the industry’s most sought after songwriters and producers, DioGuardi’s songs have appeared on more than 100 million records. Her songs have been recorded by Grammy award-winning artists including Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Santana, and Pink. Scores of major recording artists including Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, Pussycat Dolls, Miley Cyrus, The Jonas Brothers, Natasha Bedingfield, Jewel, Ashley Tisdale, Katharine McPhee, Taylor Hicks, Bo Bice, Clay Aiken, Ashlee Simpson, Hilary Duff, Jessica Simpson, Kylie Minogue, Enrique Iglesias, Nick Lachey and Marc Anthony have also released DioGuardi’s songs.

Over the last four years, she has been awarded 10 BMI Pop Awards for having written the most performed songs on radio. From her catalog of several hundred songs, over 264 have been released on major labels worldwide; and over 165 have appeared on multi-platinum selling albums. DioGuardi co-owns Arthouse Entertainment, where she develops and mentors fellow hit writers, producers and artists.  

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CBS MOVES PREMIERE OF "SURVIVOR: GABON -- EARTH'S LAST EDEN" TO THURSDAY, SEPT. 25, 8:00-10:00 PM

New York, N.Y.  August 26th, 2008.             CBS is moving the season premiere of SURVIVOR: GABON - EARTH'S LAST EDEN to Thursday, Sept. 25 (8:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), marking the first-ever two-hour premiere for any edition of the long-running hit series and the first edition broadcast in high definition. The premiere was originally announced for Thursday, Sept. 18 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT).

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THIRTEEN NEW STARS WILL SHINE AS "DANCING WITH THE STARS" RETURNS FOR ITS SEVENTH SEASON

New York, N.Y.  August 25th, 2008.             It will be a season of surprises in what promises to be the biggest and most demanding season ever, as 13 celebrities take the ballroom floor on the hit series "Dancing with the Stars," which returns with a three-night premiere event, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 (8:00-10:00 p.m., ET) on ABC. All new surprises and twists will await viewers each week. Season Seven marks the largest cast assembled to date, the oldest and youngest competitors ever, and includes two Olympic Gold medalists, a Grammy®-winning singer, a television legend, an Oscar® winner and a Super Bowl champion. Additionally, all four professional dancers who've previously tasted the thrill of victory return to compete against one another for bragging rights. Can one of them reclaim the mirror ball trophy?

For the first time ever, all 13 teams must prepare two routines for the first week of competition, one of which they'll perform on Monday night. The judges will score the performances on Monday while viewers cast their votes for their favorites. Only 12 will have the chance to showcase their second dance on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 (9:00-11:0 p.m., ET). In dramatic style on Tuesday's show, one couple will be eliminated as the remaining contestants perform their second dance of the season. The judges will score the dances on Tuesday and viewers will once again cast their votes before a second duo is dismissed, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

As announced today on "Good Morning America," in alphabetical order, the 13 stars making their ballroom dancing debut are:

LANCE BASS -- Lance Bass has sold over 50 million records as a member of the phenomenally successful pop group *NSYNC. He also executive-produced and starred in a number of film and television projects. In 2002 he successfully trained to be a cosmonaut at Russia's Star City and was certified by both the Russian Space Program and NASA for a mission aboard a Soyuz capsule. Lance has released his memoir, Out of Sync, for Simon Spotlight Entertainment. 2006 U.S. Youth Latin Champ and 2007 World Swing Dance Champ Lacey Schwimmer teams with Lance to make her series debut.

TONI BRAXTON - The winner of six Grammy Awards, Toni Braxton is a Billboard chart-topping singer and actress, selling over 40 million records worldwide. Her U.S. No. 1 hit, "Un-Break My Heart," is the second-biggest single by a female artist in history. She has also appeared in two Disney Broadway shows, "Beauty and the Beast" and Aida." "Dancing with the Stars" marks her return to the spotlight after a six-month health hiatus. She teams up with Season One champion Alec Mazo, who returns for his fourth season.

BROOKE BURKE -- A host, actress, entrepreneur and celebrity mom, Brooke Burke has truly done it all. She has graced numerous magazine covers, has her own top-selling swimsuit calendars and is regularly ranked in men's magazines as one of the sexiest women in the world. Recognized worldwide as host of the hit travel series "Wild On!," Brooke has since hosted several high profile network series, including "Rock Star: INXS" and "Rock Star: Supernova." On the acting front, she has guest starred on such television series as "Las Vegas," "Less than Perfect," "Eve," "It's All Relative," "The Bernie Mac Show," "Monk," "Rock Me Baby" and "That's Life." Brooke is a mother of four and recently launched her own babystore, BabooshBaby.com, a site where she shares her secrets (and some products she used) to get back in shape after giving birth. Brooke teams with Derek Hough, who returns for his third season.

ROCCO DISPIRITO - The James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef and author Rocco DiSpirito combines his world-class cooking with a passion for empowering home cooks. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Rocco opened the three-star Union Pacific in New York City in 1997. In 2003 he launched Rocco's for the reality series "The Restaurant." Rocco will next appear on the A&E series "Rocco Gets Real," beginning in October, along with its companion cookbook, Rocco Gets Real: Cook at Home Every Day. He teams with Karina Smirnoff, who returns for her fifth season. Karina teamed with R&B singer Mario last season.

MAURICE GREENE - The winner of two gold medals in the 100m sprint and the 4x100m relay at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics, track star Maurice Greene was dubbed the "World's Fastest Man" during his career. In addition to being the former world record holder in the 100m sprint and winning multiple world championships, he also won silver and bronze medals at the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics. He is the current Indoor World Record holder in the 60m at 6.39 seconds. He teams up with two-time champion Cheryl Burke. Cheryl returns for her sixth season.

KIM KARDASHIAN -- Actress, model and reality television star Kim Kardashian shot to stardom after the first airing of her hit E! reality series, "Keeping up with the Kardashians." The series follows the exploits of Kim, her siblings, her mother, Kris, and her stepfather, Olympic Gold Medalist Bruce Jenner. Kardashian recently completed her first feature film, "Disaster Movie," and will also be seen on The N's series "Beyond the Break." She teams up with defending champ Mark Ballas, who returns for his third season.

CLORIS LEACHMAN - Actress Cloris Leachman's storied career has been recognized with nine Emmys®, a Golden Globe and an Academy Award®. She has the distinction of being the only woman to win eight Primetime Emmy® Awards and one Daytime Emmy®. Cloris has starred in a wide range of theater, television and motion picture projects, creating such indelible characters as Phyllis in the TV series "Phyllis" and "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," Frau Blucher in "Young Frankenstein," Nurse Diesel in "High Anxiety" and Ruth Popper in "The Last Picture Show" (for which she won an Oscar® and a BAFTA). In 2008 she has already completed three new films, "The Women," "American Cowslip" and "New York I Love You." She is in the process of writing her memoir and is currently touring the U.S. with her one-woman show, "CLORIS!" She teams with World Latin Champion and Mark's father, Corky Ballas, who makes his series debut.

CODY LINLEY -- Cody Linley will be the youngest contestant ever to compete on "Dancing with the Stars." He is best known for his role as Jake Ryan on the wildly popular Disney Channel series "Hannah Montana," a role in which he was nominated for a Young Artist Award. He also helped the show garner an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Children's Programming. Cody's film credits include "My Dog Skip," "HOOT," "Miss Congeniality" and "Cheaper By the Dozen." He teams with two-time "Dancing with the Stars" champ Julianne Hough, who returns for her fourth season.

SUSAN LUCCI -- As the most famous face in daytime television history, Susan Lucci has held audiences spellbound for years as the sexy, sassy, beautiful "woman you love to hate," Erica Kane, on ABC's "All My Children." In May 1999, all of America stood and cheered when Susan won the Emmy® Award for Best Actress. While competing on the show, she will continue her work on "All My Children," and will celebrate her 10,000th episode this November. In addition to her performances on Broadway and in cabarets across the country, Susan is an entrepreneur, having launched successful cosmetic, fashion and jewelry lines on HSN. She teams with Tony Dovolani, who returns for his sixth season.

MISTY MAY-TREANOR -- Beach Volleyball champion Misty May-Treanor and partner Kerri Walsh captured their second Olympic gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics and became the first team ever to repeat as back-to-back champs. The victory also marked their 108th straight match win. Misty and Kerri were distinguished as AVP Team of the Year for four consecutive years (2003 through 2006). Misty was also named Most Valuable Player in 2005 and 2006, Best Offensive Player in 2004, 2005 and 2006, and Best Defensive Player in 2006. She now joins a new teammate, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, who returns for his fifth season.

TED MCGINLEY -- Actor Ted McGinley's extensive television credits include "Married...with Children," "Hope & Faith," "Happy Days," and recurring roles on the critically-acclaimed series "The West Wing," "Sports Night," "Charlie Lawrence," "Dynasty" and "The Love Boat." He has also starred in such films as "Pearl Harbor," "Daybreak," "Dick," "Major League: Back to the Minors," "Wayne's World 2" and the cult hit "Revenge of the Nerds." Newcomer Inna Brayer will be paired with Ted. Inna is the current U.S. Amateur 10 Dance Champion.

JEFFREY ROSS -- Comedian Jeffrey Ross, a.k.a. the "Roastmaster General," has delivered numerous show stopping performances at celebrity roasts honoring the likes of William Shatner, Hugh Hefner, Donald Trump, Pamela Anderson, Bob Saget and Emmitt Smith, inspiring New York Magazine to crown him "The Meanest Man in Comedy." As a comic, Jeff has appeared on several late night and morning shows -- "Jimmy Kimmel Live," "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and "The View." Jeff's other TV credits include "Weeds" and "C.S.I." He has also appeared in such films as the Farrelly Brothers' "Stuck on You," and the critical sensation "The Aristocrats." Jeff continues to tour regularly. He teams with Edyta Sliwinska, who is the only pro to compete in all seven seasons of "Dancing with the Stars."

WARREN SAPP - Recently retired defensive tackle and Superbowl Champion Warren Sapp played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Oakland Raiders during his 13-year career. His 96.5 career sacks are the second-highest career total sacks for a defensive tackle in the NFL. Warren was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1999, played in seven consecutive Pro Bowls and won Super Bowl XXXVII with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003. This fall he will co-host Showtime's "Inside the NFL" and will be a studio analyst and game commentator for the NFL Network. Warren is teamed with Kym Johnson, who returns for her fifth season.

Viewers may cast their votes for their favorite teams via phone on Monday and Tuesday night during and up to 30 minutes after the "Dancing with the Stars" performance shows. AT&T subscribers may also text message their votes by texting the word "VOTE" and entering the number that corresponds to the team they want to support (standard text message rates apply). Viewers may also vote online at www.abc.com starting from the opening of each episode on the East Coast and until 12:00 Noon, ET the following day.

"Dancing with the Stars the Results Show" will feature the return of Macy's Stars of Dance, featuring some of the most renowned dancers and choreographers of our time, including an extra spectacular performance on October 21st to commemorate the Macy's 150th anniversary. The Kids Ballroom Dance Competition, a fan favorite, also returns.

Hosted by Tom Bergeron ("America's Funniest Home Videos") and Samantha Harris ("E! Entertainment"), the celebrities will perform choreographed dance routines which will be judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

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“FRINGE” AND “TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES” GO TO COLLEGE WITH INNOVATIVE SEASON PREMIERE SIMUL-STREAMS ONLINE AT FOX.COM

Los Angeles, Cal.,  August 25th, 2008.            In an unprecedented event, FOX will stream the premieres of TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES and FRINGE exclusively for on-campus college students at www.fox.com. Only students on college campuses accessing through a college internet domain (.edu) will have the opportunity to watch the episodes online simultaneously with their primetime premieres.

TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES will premiere both on FOX and on college campuses online at www.fox.com/terminator/college on Monday, Sept. 8 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT), and FRINGE will simulcast Tuesday, Sept. 9 (8:00-9:35 PM ET/PT) on FOX and on college campuses online at www.fox.com/fringe/college. The “simul-streams” will be complemented with pre- and post-shows featuring behind-the-scenes footage and music videos, as well as cast and producer interviews.

In the second season premiere of TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES, viewers will catch up with the Connors in the aftermath of Cameron’s (Summer Glau) jeep explosion. As they try to pick up the pieces, Sarah (Lena Headey) and John Connor (Thomas Dekker) are forced to confront the reality of John following his destiny. Meanwhile, Agent Ellison’s (Richard T. Jones) faith is challenged and he’s forced to confront the Feds in the aftermath of Cromartie’s (Garret Dillahunt) massacre; and, Shirley Manson joins the cast as Catherine Weaver, the CEO of a high-tech corporation.

From J.J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci, the team behind “Star Trek,” “Mission: Impossible III” and “Alias,” FRINGE is a new procedural thriller that explores the blurring line between the possible and the unimaginable. In the series premiere, an international flight lands at Boston’s Logan Airport carrying crew and passengers decimated by a mysterious virus.  The event brings together an unlikely trio – FBI Special Agent Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv), brilliant but formerly institutionalized scientist Walter Bishop (John Noble) and his scheming, reluctant son Peter (Josh Jackson) – who uncover a deadly mystery involving a series of unbelievable events that may be a part of a larger, more disturbing pattern.

 

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ABC'S "WORLD NEWS WITH CHARLES GIBSON" UNVEILS WEB-EXCLUSIVE CONTENT

New York, N.Y.  August 25th, 2008.             Charles Gibson to Blog on "World Newser" beginning at the Democratic and Republican Conventions. As the country turns its attention to the Democrats in Denver this week and the Republicans in St. Paul next week, ABC's "World News with Charles Gibson" has launched a redesigned site on ABCNEWS.com, featuring new web-exclusive content, political resources and the continuing "World News" webcast. The centerpiece of the new web page (http://abcnews.go.com/wn) is the re-launched "World Newser" blog, which will feature contributions from anchor Charlie Gibson along with a wide array of postings from the senior staff on culture, technology, politics and life around the globe.

"Continuously updated throughout the day, the revamped 'World Newser' blog is our take - straight from the newsroom - on the events and stories around the globe, across the country and on the web. It's a must-read for news fanatics. With the webcast's debut in 2006 and now the blog, 'World News' is taking the digital experience to the next level by further extending our signature reporting into the digital space," said Jon Banner, executive producer.

Beginning in Denver and then next week in St. Paul, the "World Newser" blog will feature Gibson's dispatches from the Democratic and Republican Conventions. His posts, which will continue after the conventions end, will be complemented by the broadcast's team of senior producers and staff. The "World Newser" (http://blogs.abcnews.com/theworldnewser/) aims to provide a window not just onto the latest news of the day, but how the staff digests that information, makes editorial choices and ultimately gets the program on the air every night.

The blog also features extensive video clips, bulletins from the wires and links to stories on the web that are generating buzz. Updated frequently throughout the day, the "World Newser" is a one-stop resource for newsroom insights, breaking news and some of the web's more off-beat stories. To sign up for an RSS feed of the blog for an update anywhere, anytime, go to: http://feeds.feedburner.com/AbcNews_TheWorldNewser.


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THE CW’S FASHIONS AN EARLIER PREMIERE DATE FOR NEW REALITY COMPETITION “STYLISTA” ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22 AT 9:00 PM

Los Angeles, Cal.,  August 25, 2008.            The CW Network announced today that the series premiere of its new high fashion reality competition “Stylista”, from the producers of “America’s Next Top Model” and “Project Runway,” is moving to Wednesday, October 22 (9:00-10:00p.m. ET), a week earlier than previously announced.

 

If “The Devil Wears Prada” were a reality show, it would be “Stylista.” Eleven aspiring fashion enthusiasts vie for a much-coveted editorial job with Elle magazine. They work as assistants to Elle’s Fashion News Director, Anne Slowey, a demanding but well-respected fashion icon. The competitors carry out an assistant task and a fashion editorial assignment in each episode.

 

Each week, in consultation with Elle’s Creative Director, Joe Zee, Anne fires one person, until the last assistant standing gets “promoted” to the coveted real-life job opportunity. The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle magazine, a paid lease on a great apartment in Manhattan, and a clothing allowance at H&M, all for one year, valued at $100,000.

 

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UNIVERSAL SPORTS BRINGS FIRST EVER MULTIPLATFORM BROADCAST OF PARALYMPIC GAMES TO U.S.

Los Angeles, Cal.    August 25, 2008.            Universal Sports, a multiplatform destination for amateur sports programming throughout the year which is co-owned by NBC Universal and InterMedia Partners, the Beijing 2008 Organizing Committee (BOCOG) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced today an agreement to provide the first-ever multiplatform broadcast coverage of the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games, presented by GE in the U.S. The groundbreaking broadcast will premiere on September 6 on UniversalSports.com and October 8 on Universal Sports TV, followed by a special presentation of the events on NBC October 18.

Universal Sports TV broadcast of the 2008 Paralympic Games will start on Oct. 8, followed by at least seven days of three hour segments of coverage. The Paralympic Games will be available in the U.S. Sept. 6-17 with daily live and delayed highlight shows on UniversalSports.com. Daily video highlights will also be available at the official site of the U.S. Paralympic Team, USParalympics.org. Beginning in 2009, the U.S. Olympic Network will re-air portions of the 2008 Paralympic Games. Broadcast presenting title sponsor GE and associate sponsor VISA will provide branded promotions during the Paralympic Games with integrated media placements on Universal Sports TV and their websites.

The Paralympic Games is an elite sporting event for accomplished athletic champions spanning five different disability groups. Emphasizing the Paralympic values of courage, determination, inspiration and equality, the Paralympic Games showcase participants' athletic achievements rather than their disability in a variety of competitions including Athletics, Swimming, Equestrian, Wheelchair Basketball, plus many more. In Beijing, a total of 4,000 athletes from around 150 countries will be competing in 20 sports.

"Bringing coverage of the 2008 Paralympic Games to the U.S. is a significant milestone in our mission to celebrate the athletes and competitions that truly exemplify the human spirit," said Claude Ruibal, CEO of Universal Sports. "Universal Sports is committed to be the home of amateur and Paralympic sports and give sports enthusiasts' exciting television programming, complemented by a unique online environment that brings athletes together."

Said IPC President Sir Philip Craven: "We at the International Paralympic Committee welcome this opportunity to expand our audience in the U.S., and show what a magnificent event this will be. The Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games are hitting a number of milestones and the broadcasting with Universal Sports will most certainly bring in more Paralympic enthusiasts."

Coverage of the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games on Universal Sports will be hosted by longtime Olympic play-by-play commentator Al Trautwig. Along with daily news and updates online, Universal Sports will be showcasing a special original athlete profile series.

For current Universal Sports scheduling information for the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games, please visit UniversalSports.com.


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NBC TO BROADCAST SWIMMING WORLD & NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Beijing, China.  August 21, 2008.             On the heels of the most memorable Olympic swimming competition in history, in which Michael Phelps won an unprecedented eight gold medals, NBC Sports, in cooperation with USA Swimming, today announced an agreement for the most significant U.S. television package in the history of the sport. NBC Sports and Universal Sports will broadcast the 2009 World Swimming Championships from Rome and the 2009 USA Swimming National Championships (which will serve to qualify the U.S. team for the 2009 Worlds), as well as the National Championships in 2010 and 2011. The agreement is the first major announcement for the sport of swimming since the remarkable Beijing Olympic swimming competition that saw 20 new world records in the 32 morning finals. NBC already holds the broadcast rights to the 2012 U.S. Olympics Swimming Trials and 2012 London Olympic Games. The announcement was made today by Dick Ebersol, Chairman, NBC Universal Sports & Olympics and Chuck Wielgus, Executive Director, USA Swimming.

Michael Phelps, who has long stated a goal of getting more exposure for the sport of swimming, said: "I've said for a long time that my most important goal was to leave swimming better than I found it and this move to network coverage on NBC of our major championships is a dream come true and a big step in that direction."

Phelps has stated his intention to continue with competitive swimming through the 2012 London Olympics. When asked about swimming at the 2009 World Championships, he said, "My mom has told me that I better make the [2009 U.S. World Championships team], because she wants to go to Rome. I have the pressure from the mom, so I guess we have to get back into it and make that happen."

Ebersol said: "The whole world watched as Michael Phelps took his sport to a new level and introduced a generation of fans to swimming through his extraordinary achievements. His accomplishments transcend sports and, are in fact, a cultural phenomenon. We're greatly looking forward to following the next chapter in his career."

Wielgus said: "We're thrilled with our evolving partnership with NBC. Having NBC broadcast the 2009 FINA World Championships is a huge step forward for our sport."

NBC will broadcast weekend coverage from Rome on July 26 and Aug. 1-2, 2009 and will also air mid-week coverage on the newly-launched Universal Sports digital channel.

Led by its live primetime swimming coverage, NBC averaged 30.0 million average viewers, 13 percent ahead of Athens in 2004, through the first eight days of the Beijing Games as Michael Phelps' quest for eight gold medals captivated America. Phelps' achievements transcend his sport, inspiring his hometown Baltimore Ravens to broadcast his record-breaking race in Ravens Stadium following their preseason game, and attracting members of the U.S. Olympic basketball team to his races in the Water Cube on the Olympic Green in Beijing.


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MICHAEL PHELPS: GREATEST OLYMPIC CHAMPION DVD ON SALE NOW
 
Beijing, China.  August 21, 2008.             NBC Olympics is offering fans the chance to relive the greatest moments from the 2008 Beijing Olympics Games, including all eight of Michael Phelps' gold medal races, through a trio of DVDs available for sale on NBCOlympics.com. Also available is a two-volume set with the complete Opening Ceremony and a highlight DVD recapping all the great moments and stories from the Beijing Games.

Michael Phelps:
Greatest Olympic Champion...The Inside Story (19.99):
Having stood on the gold medal podium a record eight times during one Olympic Games, Michael Phelps now stands alone as the greatest Olympic champion in history. With exclusive interviews and commentary, Michael takes us on his personal journey to Olympic stardom. This compelling DVD includes all of his races and special behind-the-scenes footage... a DVD to be cherished for years to come.

2008 Beijing
Opening Ceremony 2-Volume DVD ($29.99):
This two-volume set is your opportunity to once again witness the most memorable Opening Ceremony in Olympic history, the complete four-hour extravaganza. A special index allows you to easily navigate throughout the entire ceremony. Own the celebration that people will be talking about forever.

2008 Beijing
General Highlight DVD ($19.99):
Relive the drama and excitement...all the incredible performances and athletic achievements that captivated the world are captured on the official Olympic DVD from NBC Sports. The DVD includes special bonus chapters featuring gold medal performances of Olympic champions.


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DAVID BLAINE STUNS THE WORLD WITH ANOTHER EXTRAORDINARY,
DEATH-DEFYING ENDURANCE FEAT, ON "DAVID BLAINE: DIVE OF DEATH,"
LIVE FROM NEW YORK'S WOLLMAN RINK, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 ON ABC

New York, N.Y.  August 22nd, 2008.             David Blaine, known for his headline-making spectacles of physical, emotional and mental endurance, will live on the line - literally. Blaine, the 'Upside Down Man,' will attempt to hang from a thin wire five stories in the air - with no safety net or airbag to break his fall - in Central Park's Wollman Rink for three days and nights. Using electro-magnetic boots, Blaine will walk on and under the wire during more than 60 hours of the challenge. How will he exit from his perch overlooking New York City? Details of Blaine's heart-stopping plunge at the conclusion of the special are a closely-guarded secret. He will surprise us all -- live - on a new, two-hour ABC primetime special, "David Blaine: Dive of Death," WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Additionally, viewers will join Blaine on a unique cross-country trip, as he makes his way from the east coast to the Grand Canyon, performing his jaw-dropping illusions for people in his own distinctive style. Blaine, who has triumphantly revived amazing crowd-pleasing spectacles of magic, surprises people by appearing in the most unexpected places, bringing his amazing illusions to people who need it the most. The real people with whom Blaine shares the power of his magic include residents of the Ninth Ward in New Orleans, coal miners in West Virginia's Mingo County and inner city gangs of East St. Louis.

For more than 60 spellbinding hours, Blaine will be on the wire without food. He will pull himself up to drink liquids and to restore circulation. He will need to fight off muscle spasms and lack of sleep, as well as maintain maximum concentration in order to be successful. He will have to hang on for his life, even sleeping by dangling upside down.

Blaine's latest endurance challenge will take place in full public view - a free, family friendly event beginning the morning of September 22 - with passersby able to see him hanging precariously from his high wire.

Blaine successfully held his breath under water for longer than any human being (after inhaling pure oxygen) - 17 minutes and four-seconds - live on April 30 on "The Oprah Winfrey Show." In May 2006, on ABC's live special, "David Blaine: Drowned Alive," he attempted to break the 8-minute, 58-second record for a breath-hold under water (after inhaling air that was not oxygenated) after living for a record seven days and nights underwater - longer than any human - in an acrylic sphere in front of New York's Lincoln Center.

He also successfully completed a 44-day fast in an acrylic box suspended over the Thames River in London in the fall of 2003, surviving only on water. American viewers have been following his exploits for years on ABC Television. On "David Blaine: Vertigo," in May of 2002, he balanced on a platform, 22 inches in diameter, atop a 90-foot pillar in Manhattan's Bryant Park for 35 hours.

In November 2000, Blaine's "Frozen in Time" challenge drew massive crowds in Times Square, as he successfully survived inside a block of ice for over 61 hours. In April 1999, he was "Buried Alive" for seven days and seven nights, stunning thousands of New Yorkers who filed by his see-through crypt. The country was initially introduced to Blaine's amazing brand of incredible effects on his first ABC special, "David Blaine: Street Magic," which aired in May 1997.

Visit www.davidblaine.com to join the online community and share the experience worldwide.


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STAND UP TO CANCER

New York, N.Y.  August 21st, 2008.             Luminaries from Entertainment, Sports, Music and Journalism Join Forces for Landmark Event Simultaneously Broadcast on ABC, CBS & NBC - September 5th at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT An extraordinary lineup of actors, musicians, athletes and journalists have banded together for "Stand Up To Cancer" (www.standup2cancer.org), the groundbreaking initiative aimed at raising funds to accelerate cancer research and bring new therapies to patients more quickly in order to end cancer's reign as a leading cause of death. Harnessing the power and influence of the media, many of the world's most renowned entertainers have pledged their full support for this historic, nationally-televised program, simultaneously broadcast live and commercial-free on ABC, CBS and NBC on September 5, 2008 at 8:00 p.m., ET/PT.  In addition, the Hollywood community has embraced "Stand Up To Cancer" en masse by supporting a host of creative projects across a wide array of platforms in an effort to ignite passion in the American people so they realize that significant advances in cancer treatment are within reach.

"We're at the threshold of a great moment in our history," said award-winning film producer Laura Ziskin, who is the executive producer of the September 5th broadcast. "There's a perfect storm brewing in the field of cancer research.  We have the technology, we have the will. We need the funding. In this political year, it is imperative this issue-which touches us all- remains in spotlight. The support we've received from the creative community is remarkable. My phone is constantly ringing with people asking, 'What can I do and how can I help?' We hope viewers all over the country will do the same."

Celebrities confirmed for the September 5th broadcast include: Casey Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Christina Applegate, Lance Armstrong, Josh Brolin, David Cook, Katie Couric, Dana Delany, Fran Drescher, Kirsten Dunst, Elizabeth Edwards, Jon Favreau, America Ferrera, Charles Gibson, Neil Patrick Harris, Salma Hayek, Scarlett Johansson, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Masi Oka, Danica Patrick, Christina Ricci, Robin Roberts, Homer Simpson, Marge Simpson, Meryl Streep, Hilary Swank, Charlize Theron, Goran Visnjic, Forest Whitaker and Brian Williams. "Stand Up To Cancer" (SU2C) will announce more celebrity participants for the September 5th broadcast in the coming weeks.

The September 5th broadcast will also feature the premiere of "Just Stand Up," the all-star charity single benefiting "Stand Up To Cancer" and produced by L.A. Reid and Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds in their first creative reunion on record in nearly two decades. The performance features more than a dozen of the world's most accomplished female recording artists, including Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Rihanna, Fergie, Sheryl Crow, Miley Cyrus, Melissa Etheridge, Ashanti, Natasha Bedingfield, Keyshia Cole, Leona Lewis, LeAnn Rimes and Carrie Underwood.  Beginning September 2nd, "Just Stand Up" will be available to purchase at iTunes and mobile carriers worldwide.

Beyond the television event, celebrities have participated in a series of PSAs (public service announcements) and original web content- all in support of the cause.  At this summer's All-Star Game, Major League Baseball, SU2C's first donor, unveiled its innovative text-to-donate initiative (outlined in a PSA featuring Jessica Biel) which is running in baseball stadiums across the country throughout the summer. Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig unveiled the program alongside Sarah Jessica Parker and Sheryl Crow.

Everyone whose life has been touched by cancer can join the "Stand Up To Cancer" community through its multiplatform presence on the web. Highlights include: SUTV, with video segments featuring the cast of "The Daily Show," as well as Larry David and the moving SU2C PSA, directed by David Fincher; the Constellation, whereby for a dollar donation or more users can launch a star in honor of anyone who has received a cancer diagnosis; the Stand: an interactive Facebook application illustrating how we are all connected by this disease.

The following celebrities have appeared in "Stand Up To Cancer" PSAs, or in videos on standup2cancer.org's SUTV channel: Jessica Biel (MLB PSA), Balthazar Getty (Print), Sidney Poitier (PSA), Henry Winkler (SUTV), Larry David (SUTV), Topher Grace (Manifesto), Keanu Reeves  (PSA), The cast of "The Daily Show" (SUTV), Elle Fanning  (PSA),Ken Griffey Jr. (Print),Susan Sarandon (PSA), FunnyOrDie.com (SUTV), David Fincher (dir. PSA), Tony Hawk (PSA), Ryan Seacrest (SUTV), Jodie Foster (PSA), Tobey Maguire (PSA), Tilda Swinton (PSA), Morgan Freeman (PSA), Edward Norton (Manifesto) and Christy Turlington Burns (PSA).

Every day cancer kills 1,500 Americans- one person every minute.  This year more than 550,000 Americans and six million people worldwide will succumb to this vicious disease. One out of three women and one in every two men will be diagnosed in their lifetimes. With advances in technology and research, scientists are close to pushing cancer from a disease that all too often takes lives to one people largely triumph over. This is where the end of cancer begins.

The SU2C leadership team includes Laura Ziskin, Katie Couric, the Entertainment Industry Foundation, represented by Board of Directors Chairperson Sherry Lansing (who is Founder of the Sherry Lansing Foundation), CEO Lisa Paulsen and Vice President Kathleen Lobb; the Noreen Fraser Foundation and its executives Noreen Fraser (who is also a cancer survivor), Woody Fraser, Rusty Robertson and Sue Schwartz; and nonprofit executive Ellen Ziffren. Ziffren's husband, Ken, the noted Hollywood attorney, played a pivotal role in bringing the three networks together for the simultaneous broadcast special - the first one ever to raise funds for the fight against a disease.

"Stand Up To Cancer" has announced an innovative approach to research designed to bring together the best and brightest investigators from leading institutions around the world.  This unique initiative, which will foster scientific collaboration and accelerate the discovery of new therapies, will be administered by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), the world's oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to advancing research to prevent and cure cancer, under the direction of a Scientific Advisory Committee led by Nobel Laureate Phillip A. Sharp, Ph.D., Institute Professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT.

A host of leading individuals and organizations have joined in supporting the SU2C mission, ranging from corporate and foundation donors to print and online media companies that have contributed invaluable assets.  A broad array of cancer advocacy and support groups are also collaborating with "Stand Up To Cancer."

"Stand Up To Cancer" is a program of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF), a major force in the fight against cancer which, since its inception over 65 years ago, has raised more than $300 million for cancer research and prevention, and counts among its supporters the Noreen Fraser Foundation, created by Noreen and Woody Fraser and co-created by Rusty Robertson and Sue Schwartz to raise awareness and funding to find a cure for women's cancers.

EIF is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.  Contributions to "Stand Up To Cancer" are tax deductible.

For more information please visit: http://www.standup2cancer.org/


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"50 STATES IN 50 DAYS" ABC NEWS AND USA TODAY JOIN FORCES TO REPORT FROM EACH AND EVERY STATE IN THE UNION IN THE 50 DAYS LEADING UP TO THE HISTORIC 2008 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

New York, N.Y.  August 21st, 2008.             ABC News and USA TODAY will launch an unprecedented news project on Monday, September 15, to report from every state in the nation during the 50 days leading up to the presidential election. ABC News' anchors and correspondents and USA TODAY's reporters and photographers will report on one state each day in the run-up to the historic vote on November 4. The stories will focus on issues facing voters in their respective states. Every ABC News platform will contribute to "50 States, 50 Days," including major road trips on "Good Morning America," "World News with Charles Gibson" and "Nightline." USA TODAY will cover seven states a week in the newspaper, with two states being featured on Monday's and Friday's. ABCNEWS.com and USATODAY.com will share news content and produce complementary interactive features.

"As we approach this watershed election, ABC News and USA TODAY will go to every corner of this great country to report on the hopes and concerns of Americans as they prepare to cast their votes," said David Westin, president of ABC News. "Having worked on many successful joint editorial projects over the years with USA TODAY, we could not be more pleased to partner once again with them."

"USA TODAY strives daily to reflect and respect the lives of Americans throughout the nation," said Ken Paulson, editor and senior vice president of News for USA TODAY. "That's why this partnership with ABC News is such a great fit. It provides important perspective on what matters most as we approach this pivotal election."

ABC News and USA TODAY have partnered successfully on numerous editorial efforts over the past several years, including the Emmy Award-winning series: "Iraq: Where Things Stand." One year after the hurricane hit, the two news organizations shared resources to produce "Katrina: Where Things Stand," which featured extensive reporting on the devastating aftermath of that natural and man-made disaster. ABC News and USA TODAY also worked together to tackle a range of healthcare topics, including "Role Reversal: Your Aging Parents and You" in 2007; "Healthcare in America: Prescription for Change" in 2006; "Living Longer, Living Better" in 2005; and "The Fight Against Pain" in 2005.

More people get their news from ABC News than from any other source. ABC News is responsible for all of the ABC Television Network's news programming on a variety of platforms: television, radio and the Internet. With an average television and radio audience of 180 million people in a given month, ABC News far surpasses the competition. More than 2,300 affiliate stations broadcast ABC News Radio's global news coverage. In addition, ABC News NOW is a 24-hour news and information network currently available to 44 million users across cable, broadband and mobile platforms. NewsOne, the affiliate news service of ABC News, provides live and packaged news, sports and weather reports to 200 ABC affiliates, as well as more than 30 domestic and international clients.

USA TODAY is the nation's top-selling newspaper. It is published via satellite at 34 locations in the USA and at four sites abroad. With a total average daily circulation of 2.3 million, USA TODAY is available worldwide. USA TODAY is published by Gannett Co., Inc (NYSE: GCI). The USA TODAY brand also includes: USATODAY.com, an award-winning news and information website that is updated 24 hours a day; USA TODAY Sports Weekly, a magazine for enthusiasts of college and professional football and baseball; USA TODAY Mobile, offering up-to-the minute news and information on a variety of mobile platforms and devices; and USA TODAY LIVE, the television arm of the USA TODAY brand that brings the spirit and quality of the newspaper to television. ABC News Media Relations Contact: Jeffrey Schneider (212) 456 3587, Jeffrey.Schneider@abc.com Bridgette Maney (212) 456 5902, Bridgette.Maney@abc.com USA TODAY: Alexandra Nicholson (703) 854 5872, anicholson@usatoday.com 

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EMMYS ANNOUNCE FIRST SET OF PRESENTERS FOR "THE 60th PRIMETIME EMMY® AWARDS,"AIRING SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC

New York, N.Y.  August 21st, 2008.             Tina Fey & Amy Poehler to Present Together. The first set of presenters has been announced for "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards" including "Desperate Housewives'" - Marcia Cross, Dana Delany, Teri Hatcher, Felicity Huffman, Eva Longoria Parker and Nicollette Sheridan - presenting together; Hugh Laurie and Julia Louis-Dreyfus; and Tina Fey & Amy Poehler presenting together. The telecast will be broadcast live from the NOKIA Theatre in Los Angeles on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on ABC.

"It's always fun to come up with unique pairings, cast reunions and surprising personalities as presenters on the Emmy show, and this year we've got a number of those, beginning with our first presenter announcement today," said Executive Producer Ken Ehrlich. "And the good news is, we've got plenty more to come," he added.

Marcia Cross stars on ABC's "Desperate Housewives" as Bree Van De Kamp, for which she received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in the show's first season. She also received three Golden Globe nominations for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series. In addition to her work on "Housewives," Cross has recently wrapped shooting the upcoming indie comedy "Peck." Prior to "Desperate Housewives," she starred as Dr. Linda Abbot on the WB's critically-acclaimed series, "Everwood." She is also well-known for her role as Dr. Kimberly Shaw on FOX's hit drama, "Melrose Place."

Dana Delany appears as Katherine Mayfair on ABC's "Desperate Housewives." She made her mark as Army nurse Colleen McMurphy on ABC's critically-acclaimed "China Beach," for which she received two Primetime Emmy Awards and four nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Other television credits include CBS' "Presidio Med," FOX's "Pasadena" and NBC's "Kidnapped." She also appeared in "Family Law," for which she received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series. Delany has appeared in numerous films, including "Tombstone," "Housesitter," "Fly Away Home," "Exit to Eden" and "Almost You." This year she appeared in three independent films: "Route 30," "Multiple Sarcasms" and "Camp Hope."

Tina Fey can currently be seen on NBC's "30 Rock," which has earned her two Primetime Emmy Nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series, and a third nomination for Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program for her reprise on "Saturday Night Live." Fey earned her second Emmy Award in 2007 for her work on "30 Rock." Earlier this year she won a Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series - Musical or Comedy, a SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series and a Writers Guild Award for Comedy Series. Her big screen credits include "Baby Mama" and "Mean Girls."

Teri Hatcher received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series her role as Susan Mayer in ABC's "Desperate Housewives." During the show's first season, she also received a Golden Globe Award for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and a SAG Award for Female Actress in a Comedy. Hatcher also portrayed Lois Lane in the long-running TV series "Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman" with Dean Cain. Her film credits include the James Bond thriller "Tomorrow Never Dies," "Spy Kids," "Dead in the Water" and "The Cool Surface."

Felicity Huffman earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Transamerica," as well as a Golden Globe Award and Independent Spirit Award. For her role as Lynette Scavo on ABC's "Desperate Housewives," Huffman received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2005. Her other television credits include "Reversible Errors" with her husband, William H. Macy, "Out of Order," "Door to Door," "Chicago Hope," "Law & Order" and many others. She will be seen next in THINKFilm's "Phoebe in Wonderland," which screened at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival. In 2007 she appeared in Universal Pictures' "Georgia Rule."

Julia Louis-Dreyfus received her third Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Christine Campbell in the CBS sitcom "The New Adventures of the Old Christine." She earned worldwide acclaim for her portrayal of Elaine Benes on the hit series "Seinfeld." She received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, a Golden Globe Award, five Screen Actors Guild Awards and four American Comedy Awards during the show's nine-year run. Louis-Dreyfus' other television credits include a recurring role in "Arrested Development" and playing herself in a handful of episodes on "Curb Your Enthusiasm." She also starred in the series "Watching Ellie" and lent her voice to the television movie "Animal Farm."

Hugh Laurie earns his third Primetime Emmy Nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Dr. Gregory House on FOX's "House." In addition to his nomination, Laurie's role on "House" garnered two Golden Globe Awards for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series-Drama and a SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series. On the big screen Laurie was most recently seen in the 20th Century Fox release, "Flight of the Phoenix," opposite Dennis Quaid. He will next be seen in David Ayer's "The Night Watchman," opposite Chris Evans and Keanu Reeves.

Eva Longoria Parker has been the host and executive producer of the ALMA Awards for the past three years. She is currently starring as Gabrielle Solis on ABC's "Desperate Housewives," for which she received two SAG Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series in 2006. Longoria Parker rose to fame by playing Isabella Brana Williams on the CBS soap opera "The Young and the Restless." She has also become a nationally recognized model after appearing in several high-profile advertising campaigns and numerous men's magazines, reaching #14 in the FHM Sexiest Women 2008 poll.

Amy Poehler is nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her performance in NBC's "Saturday Night Live," making her the first member of the show to be nominated for an Emmy Award in this category. Poehler joined the cast of "SNL" in 2001, bringing a slew of great performances on every show with her impersonations of celebrities like Kelly Ripa or Sharon Osbourne. When Jimmy Fallon left at the end of the 2003-04 season, Poehler joined Tina Fey as a co-anchor for "Weekend Update." Her feature film credits include "Blades of Glory" with her husband, Will Arnett, and "Baby Mama" with Tina Fey.

Nicollette Sheridan first won a worldwide audience for her starring role on the long-running CBS drama series "Knots Landing." She now appears as Edie Britt, the serial divorcee on ABC's "Desperate Housewives," for which she earned a Golden Globe nomination. Sheridan was recently honored in her native England, receiving the 2006 Glamour Women of the Year Award for Best U.S. TV Actress, as well as back-to-back Screen Actors Guild Awards in 2005 and 2006. Additionally, Sheridan recently completed voicing the role of Zenna in Promenade Pictures' animated film, "Noah's Arc: The New Beginning," along with Michael Keaton, Jason Lee, Eliza Dushku, Rob Schneider, Marcia Gay Harden and Sir Ben Kingsley.


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JASON MESNICK GETS A SECOND CHANCE AT LOVE WHEN HE STARS IN
"THE BACHELOR," RETURNING TO ABC IN JANUARY 2009

New York, N.Y.  August 20th, 2008.             Millions of viewers were stunned when DeAnna Pappas rejected Jason Mesnick's proposal, as he dropped to one knee to profess his love in the season finale of "The Bachelorette". Brokenhearted and wondering how he could have misjudged DeAnna's intentions, Jason's female fans flocked to support him, helping him heal from his very public dismissal. Now this handsome single dad will star in his own bid for true love, choosing from among 25 bachelorettes when "The Bachelor" returns to ABC in January 2009. This will be the 13th edition of ABC's popular romance reality series.

Jason, 32, became a huge viewer favorite during the chase to win DeAnna's heart, and his popularity seemed to vault even higher when he lost out to Jesse Csincsak -- who is now engaged to Pappas -- as fans rushed to e-mail him in droves, in total sympathy to his plight. Jason still believes in destiny and that he can find love through "The Bachelor," as he discovered when he fell for DeAnna. His heart-warming story as a single father from Seattle with a three-year-old son, Ty - the apple of his eye - struck a chord with many women. Divorced two years ago, Jason would like to start another family, himself the middle son in a family of three boys. His older brother, Sean, is married with children. Jason currently lives with his younger brother, Larry, and with Ty. His parents are divorced and both are happily remarried.

An account executive in estate and legacy planning, Jason is looking for a woman who has a real curiosity about the world, who loves life and can find passion in life's smallest moments. Open and honest, the good-looking and appealing Bachelor loves a variety of sports, including swimming, golf, basketball and football. In fact he used to be a golf professional at a local club. He has traveled all over Europe and continues to pursue his desire to see the world. In his spare time, he takes guitar and swing dance lessons. Perhaps not surprisingly, Jason is a "big brother" for the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America. A philanthropist himself, he hopes to some day form and run his own children's charity.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Jason moved to Washington at the age of eight and received his BA in psychology at the University of Washington.

Interested and eligible women can learn more about upcoming casting events and the application process by logging on to www.bachelor.abc.com or by calling 866-739-3150.
 

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CBS SPORTS' 2008-09 SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTED BY 49TH YEAR OF NFL, 54th YEAR OF THE MASTERS(R), 28TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR OF COLLEGE BASKETBALL, NCAA MEN'S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP, THE PGA CHAMPIONSHIP, COLLEGE FOOTBALL AND 41st YEAR OF U.S. OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS

New York, N.Y.  August 26th, 2008.             CBS Sports' 2008-09 schedule features the most prominent lineup of events in sports television, including the 49th year of broadcasting the NFL ON CBS (see separate release) and the 54th year of broadcasting the Masters®.  Some of the other highlights of the CBS Television Network's sports broadcast schedule follow.

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE - This is the 49th season the NFL will be broadcast on CBS.  THE NFL ON CBS schedule kicks off on Sunday, Sept. 7, and continues over the 17-week regular season.  The culmination of the Network's coverage is its broadcast of an AFC Wild Card Playoff game, the Divisional Playoff games and the AFC Championship game.  Jim Nantz and Phil Simms comprise CBS Sports' lead announce team for game coverage.  The Network's pre-game studio show, THE NFL TODAY, will be hosted by James Brown, along with analysts Dan Marino, Boomer Esiason, Shannon Sharpe and Bill Cowher, with NFL TODAY General Manager Charley Casserly, along with Lesley Visser and Sam Ryan reporting.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL - CBS continues to be the leading network broadcaster of college basketball.  For the 19th consecutive year, the Network will have exclusive television rights to the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship, annually one of the most-watched sporting events on television.  More than 65 hours of coverage of this coveted property are scheduled during the 2009 tournament, tipping off on Thursday, March 19 and culminating with the Final Four and Championship game from Ford Field Detroit, Mich. on Saturday, April 4 and Monday, April 6, respectively.  In addition to covering all tournament games, CBS Sports will broadcast the NCAA SELECTION SHOW and preview programs.

For the 28th consecutive season, CBS Sports features the most comprehensive regular-season college basketball schedule, featuring teams from nine conferences including the SEC, Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, Big East and Pac-10. The 2008-09 season debuts with a national doubleheader on Saturday, Dec. 13. In addition, CBS Sports broadcasts the conference championships for the SEC, Big Ten, Pac-10, Conference USA and the Missouri Valley.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL - CBS Sports kicks off its 2008 college football coverage this fall on Saturday, Sept. 13, with a national broadcast of No. 1-ranked Georgia taking on South Carolina (3:30 PM, ET).  The 12-week regular-season schedule features exclusive Network broadcasts of the home games of the Southeastern Conference, highlighted by coverage of SEC powerhouses Georgia, Florida, LSU and Tennessee; and one of the greatest rivalries in sports, the Army-Navy game, on Saturday, Dec. 6.  Following Army-Navy, CBS Sports will present for the eighth consecutive year the SEC Championship Game, featuring the Eastern and Western Division champions, beginning at 4:00 PM, ET.  CBS Sports' college football schedule concludes with coverage of the Sun Bowl on Wednesday, Dec. 31 and the Gator Bowl on Thursday, Jan. 1.

GOLF - CBS Sports' 2009 golf broadcast schedule, the most comprehensive of any on network television, is headlined by extensive coverage of two of the four majors: the Masters® and the PGA Championship.  The Masters, broadcast from Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga., perennially ranks as the highest-rated golf tournament on television.  The 2009 Masters, scheduled for April 9-12, marks its 54th consecutive year on CBS, making it the longest-running sports event on network television.  Another tradition marks its 19th consecutive year as CBS Sports broadcasts the 91st PGA Championship, Aug. 13-16, from Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minn.  In all, CBS Sports will broadcast 20 PGA TOUR events, with a total of 25 golf events showcasing more than 150 hours of tournament coverage, including two LPGA competitions and one Champions Tour event.

U.S. OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS - The 41st U.S. Open Tennis Championships, America's only Grand Slam event and a cornerstone event of the 2008 season, will feature six days of coverage and more than 38 broadcast hours beginning on Saturday, Aug. 30, and culminating in the men's final on Sunday, Sept. 7.  First-weekend coverage includes men's and women's third-round action on Saturday, Aug. 30, men's third-round and women's fourth-round action on Sunday, Aug. 31, and men's and women's fourth-round action on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 1.

CBS Sports' final weekend of U.S. Open coverage begins on Friday, Sept. 5, with the women's semifinals and men's doubles final and continues on Saturday, Sept. 6, with "Super Saturday," featuring the men's semifinals and primetime coverage of the women's final.  This will mark the eighth time in network television history that a Grand Slam event final will be broadcast in prime time.  Coverage concludes with the men's final on Sunday, Sept. 7.

CBS SPORTS SPECTACULAR -The Network's sports anthology series includes a unique and diverse lineup of event coverage originating from venues both national and international.  It is broadcast during the second and third quarters and features such events as the Tour de France, track and field, tennis, auto racing and poker.

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CBS SPORTS SERVES UP 2008 U.S. OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS

New York, N.Y.  August 26th, 2008.             CBS Sports presents THE U.S. OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS, tennis' final grand slam of the year and the only one played in the United States. Coverage begins on Saturday, Aug. 30 (11:00 AM-6:00 PM, ET) with men's and women's third-round action and concludes with the men's singles final on Sunday, Sept. 7 (4:00-7:00 PM, ET). CBS Sports will broadcast over 38 hours of the 2008 U.S. Open from the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, N.Y.

Lead play-by-play announcer Dick Enberg will be joined by expert analysts Mary Carillo and John McEnroe in the booth for the ninth consecutive year. Bill Macatee also will call tennis action for CBS Sports, with Patrick McEnroe as analyst.  Mary Joe Fernandez serves as reporter. Ian Eagle serves as contributor.

CBS Sports will provide live comprehensive coverage during both weekends of the event and on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 1 (11:00 AM-6:00 PM, ET) and on Friday, Sept. 5 (12:30-6:00 PM, ET).  The 2008 women's final live in prime time highlights the Network's "Super Saturday" coverage on Saturday, Sept. 6 (8:00-10:00 PM, ET). 

All the action from Center Court at Arthur Ashe Stadium, as well as play from Louis Armstrong Stadium will be broadcast in HDTV.  

CBS Sports schedule of live U.S. Open Tennis action as follows: 

Sat., Aug. 30        11:00 AM-6:00 PM, ET (men's & women's 3rd round singles)

Sun., Aug. 31        11:00 AM-6:00 PM, ET (men's 3rd round/women's 4th round)

Mon., Sept. 1        11:00 AM-6:00 PM, ET (men's/women's 4th round singles)

Fri., Sept. 5          12:30-6:00 PM, ET (men's doubles final/women's semi-finals)

Sat., Sept. 6         11:00 AM-6:00 PM ET (men's semi-finals)

                            8:00-10:00 PM, ET (women's singles final)      

Sun., Sept. 7         4:00-7:00 PM, ET (men's singles final)

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CBS SPORTS ANNOUNCES BROADCAST PAIRINGS FOR 2008 NFL SEASON

New York, N.Y.  August 26th, 2008.             The CBS Television Network begins its 49^th year of broadcasting the NFL on Sunday, Sept. 7 (12:00 Noon-4:00 PM, ET) as Jim Nantz and Phil Simms lead THE NFL ON CBS into the Network's 2008 NFL season. 

  James Brown anchors the CBS Television Network's hour-long pre-game studio show, THE NFL TODAY, along with analysts Dan Marino, Boomer Esiason, Bill Cowher and Shannon Sharpe from the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City.  Charley Casserly serves as THE NFL TODAY's "General Manager," while Lesley Visser and Sam Ryan serve as reporters for the show.  This season marks the 41^st year of THE NFL TODAY on the CBS Television Network.

THE NFL ON CBS announce team is solidified as the deepest in sports television as Greg Gumbel once again calls games alongside Dan Dierdorf; Dick Enberg teams with Randy Cross; and Kevin Harlan teams with Rich Gannon.

Other notes of interest this year include Ian Eagle teaming with Solomon Wilcots; Gus Johnson pairing with Steve Tasker; Don Criqui and Bill Macatee teaming with Steve Beuerlein, and THE NFL ON CBS's newest addition, Dan Fouts, for selected games.

Pro Football Hall of Famer and former CBS Sports NFL ON CBS analyst Fouts returns to CBS Sports to call selected NFL ON CBS games, as well as selected SEC ON CBS and CBS College Sports Network college football games.

CBS Sports' complete roster of announce teams for its 49^th year of NFL coverage was announced today by Sean McManus, President, CBS News and Sports, and Executive Producer, THE NFL ON CBS.

Following are the Network's NFL announcer pairings for the 2008 season (play-by-play/analyst):

Jim Nantz//Phil Simms

Greg Gumbel//Dan Dierdorf

Dick Enberg//Randy Cross//Dan Fouts*

Kevin Harlan//Rich Gannon

Ian Eagle//Solomon Wilcots

Gus Johnson//Steve Tasker

Don Criqui/Bill Macatee//Steve Beuerlein//Dan Fouts*

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UPCOMING GUESTS ON THE "LATE SHOW with DAVID LETTERMAN"

Thursday, Aug. 28                           

Actor Brad Garrett; actress Blake Lively; musical guest Randy Houser

Friday, Aug. 29                                

Actress Amy Sedaris; reality television star Kim Kardashian; comedian Brian Regan

Monday, Sept. 1                                 

Guests TBA

Tuesday, Sept. 2                                 

Actor Nicolas Cage; actress Anna Torv; musical guest Terrence Howard

Wednesday, Sept. 3                        

Self-help guru Dr. Phil McGraw; actress Tilda Swinton; musical guest Tricky

Thursday, Sept. 4                            

Actor Robin Williams; musical guest Duffy

Friday, Sept. 5                                 

Actor John Malkovich; actress Hayden Panettiere; musical guest Steve Earle

Monday, Sept. 8                              

Actress Keira Knightley

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

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

Thursday, Sept. 4

Actor Kal Penn; model Paulina Porizkova  

Friday, Sept. 5

Actor Russell Brand; music by Jamie Lidell

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THE "LATE SHOW" TOP TEN "Ways to Make the Democratic Convention More Fun"

As presented Monday, Aug. 25 on the LATE SHOW with DAVID LETTERMAN

10.       Offer John McCain $1 million if he correctly guesses how many homes he owns.

9.         Every night, one lucky lady gets to go home with John Edwards.

8.         In honor of party mascot, serve assortment of delicious donkey and mule treats.

7.         Each delegate gets a kitty, superdelegates get a super kitty!

6.         Special appearance by the exhumed remains of Lyndon Johnson.

5.         Call the Pepsi Center something crazy like the Bird's Nest or the Water Cube.

4.         Give John Kerry's crazy wife five minutes to say whatever she wants - remember her?

3.         Kick things off with a song from Dennis Kucinich.

2.         Five words:  hot volleyball babes in bikinis. 

1.         Try to squeeze Al Gore into the same suit he wore at the 2000 convention.

 
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