“AMERICAN IDOL” JUDGE KARA DIOGUARDI TO GUEST ON SEASON PREMIERE OF “TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN” SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, ON FOX            AMERICAN IDOL judge Kara DioGuardi is staying up late to chat with Spike Feresten on the season premiere of TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN airing Saturday, Sept. 13 (Midnight-12:30 AM ET/PT) on FOX.       (Read More)

THIRTEEN NEW STARS WILL SHINE AS "DANCING WITH THE STARS" RETURNS FOR ITS SEVENTH SEASON            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.       (Read More)

OPRAH WINFREY TO MAKE A GUEST APPEARANCE AT "THE 60th PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS," SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC            Oprah Winfrey will be returning to the Primetime Emmy Awards for a very special guest appearance celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the TV Academy.       (Read More)

"PROJECT RUNWAY" WINNER AND FASHION DESIGNER CHRISTIAN SIRIANO SELECTED TO DESIGN SECOND RED CARPET GOWN FOR "THE 60TH PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS" TROPHY PRESENTER            ABC Last season's "Project Runway" winner and celebrity designer Christian Siriano has been chosen to design a red carpet gown for "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards" trophy girl, it was announced today by Ken Ehrlich, executive producer of the telecast.       (Read More)

REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN (R-AZ.) AND WIFE CINDY HENSLEY MCCAIN RETURN TO "THE VIEW," LIVE, SEPT. 12            Republican Presidential nominee and senior Senator from Arizona John McCain will make his fifth guest appearance on ABC's talk and entertainment program, "The View," live, FRIDAY, SEPT. 12 (11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon, ET), and will be joined by his wife, Cindy Hensley McCain.       (Read More)

THIRD SET OF PRESENTERS ANNOUNCED FOR "THE 60th PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS"            The third set of presenters for "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards" includes Kristin Chenoweth, Kathy Griffin, Neil Patrick Harris, Conan O'Brien, Christian Slater, Don Rickles and Kate Walsh. The telecast will originate live from the NOKIA Theatre in Los Angeles on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on ABC.       (Read More)

PATRICIA HEATON, TREAT WILLIAMS AND JIMMY WOLK STAR IN "FRONT OF THE CLASS," A NEW "HALLMARK HALL OF FAME" PRESENTATION THAT HAS BEGUN PRODUCTION FOR BROADCAST ON CBS             FRONT OF THE CLASS, a new "Hallmark Hall of Fame" presentation starring Patricia Heaton ("Everybody Loves Raymond"), Treat Williams ("Everwood") and Jimmy Wolk ("The Spiral Project"), has started production in Shreveport, La. for broadcast on the CBS Television Network.       (Read More)

'TODAY' TAKES ON BATTLEGROUND STATES            Amid one of the most extraordinary and hard-fought presidential campaigns in history, NBC News' "Today" will take the show on the road and broadcast live from crucial "battleground states" where the White House may be lost or won.       (Read More)

NBC SERVES UP FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY SPECIALS WITH ACCENT ON ALL-NEW ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING ALONG WITH TRADITIONAL SEASONAL CHESTNUTS           NBC unwrapped its 2008 holiday specials lineup early with an accent on original and family-friendly programs.       (Read More)

NBC ENCOURAGING AMERICANS TO LIVE HEALTHIER, MORE ACTIVE LIVES WITH 'THE BIGGEST LOSER LEAGUE,' A SUPPORTIVE SOCIAL NETWORK ON NBC.COM, KICKING OFF IN CONJUNCTION WITH NBC'S SEASON PREMIERE OF 'THE BIGGEST LOSER: FAMILIES' ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16           NBC is committed to helping Americans live healthier, more active lives with "The Biggest Loser League" www.thebiggestloserleague.com), a supportive social network on NBC.com kicking off right before the premiere of NBC's "The Biggest Loser: Families" on Tuesday, September 16 (8-10 p.m. ET).       (Read More)

ACTOR MORGAN FREEMAN, SINGER GEORGE JONES, ACTRESS, SINGER AND DIRECTOR BARBRA STREISAND, CHOREOGRAPHER TWYLA THARP AND MUSICIANS PETE TOWNSHEND AND ROGER DALTREY OF THE WHO, TO RECEIVE HONORS DURING "THE 31ST ANNUAL KENNEDY CENTER HONORS," TO BE BROADCAST THIS DECEMBER ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK            Actor Morgan Freeman, singer George Jones, actress, singer and director Barbra Streisand, choreographer Twyla Tharp, and musicians Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey of The Who will receive honors for the year 2008, on THE 31ST ANNUAL KENNEDY CENTER HONORS, to be broadcast this December on the CBS Television Network.  This marks the 31st year of the special, which has been broadcast on CBS each year since its debut.       (Read More)

ABC NEWS SPONSORS FIVE COLLEGE BUREAUS TO KICK-OFF ABC NEWS ON CAMPUS JOURNALISM INITIATIVE            News Division Announces Five College Bureau Chiefs at Top Journalism Schools ABC News today announced the sponsoring of five college campus bureaus as part of the network's ABC News on Campus initiative, and named the five college bureau chiefs at the respective schools.       (Read More)

NBC UNIVERSAL CELEBRATES DIVERSITY WITH THIRD ANNUAL 'COMEDY SHORT CUTS' FILM FESTIVAL HONORING SEMI-FINALIST FILMMAKERS ON SEPTEMBER 15 IN NEW YORK CITY           NBC Universal's multi-pronged creative entities will conduct the company's third annual "Comedy Short Cuts" Diversity Film Festival honoring this year's semi-finalist filmmakers on September 15 in New York City as part of the New York Television Festival, it was announced today by Ben Silverman, Co-Chairman, NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios.       (Read More)

JOSH GROBAN TO PERFORM TELEVISION'S GREATEST THEME SONGS LIVE ON "THE 60TH PRIMETIME EMMY® AWARDS," SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC            Josh Groban, who recorded last year's No. 1-selling CD, will perform a once in a lifetime medley of more than 25 of television's most memorable themes on "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards," airing live, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on ABC.       (Read More)

KENNY CHESNEY LEADS FINALISTS WITH SEVEN NOMINATIONS FOR "THE 42nd ANNUAL CMA AWARDS," COUNTRY MUSIC'S BIGGEST NIGHT            2008 CMA Awards Will Broadcast Live from the Sommet Center in Nashville Wednesday, November 12 on the ABC Television Network The announcement of the final nominees in five of the 12 CMA Awards categories was made on "Good Morning America" studios in the heart of New York City's Times Square by Rascal Flatts and Taylor Swift.       (Read More)

ABC'S CHARLES GIBSON TO INTERVIEW GOVERNOR SARAH PALIN            Exclusive Interviews to Air Across ABC News' Broadcasts and Platforms beginning on Thursday's "World News" In her first interview since being tapped as John McCain's running mate, Governor Sarah Palin will sit down with ABC News' Charles Gibson on Thursday, September 11 and Friday, September 12.       (Read More)

TELEVISION'S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS" NOW NARROWED FOR VOTING -- TOP 10 COMEDIC + TOP 10 DRAMATIC - WITH FINAL WINNERS ANNOUNCED DURING EMMY AWARDS SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC            Voting Ends on September 15 at emmys.abc.com With more than 100,000 votes posted already, television fans have selected their Top 10 Comedic and Top 10 Dramatic moments in the Television Academy's first ever public vote to determine America's number one moment in each category.       (Read More)

CBS SPORTS TO STREAM ENTIRE 2008 SEC FOOTBALL SCHEDULE LIVE ON CBS SPORTS.COM            CBS Sports will stream its entire 2008 SEC college football schedule live on CBSSports.com. The SEC ON CBS kicks off on Saturday, Sept 13 (3:30-7:00 PM, ET) with *No. 2-ranked Georgia at *South Carolina.       (Read More)

SEEN AT THE CBS SCENE... STARS FROM THE WORLDS OF ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS GATHERED TO CELEBRATE THE GRAND OPENING OF THE CBS SCENE RESTAURANT & BAR, SATURDAY, SEPT. 6, IN FOXBOROUGH, MASS.            CBS and the Kraft Group hosted a grand opening extravaganza on Saturday (Sept. 6) to celebrate the CBS Scene Restaurant & Bar, a new one-of-a-kind entertainment and dining destination in Foxborough, Mass., adjacent to the New England Patriots' Gillette stadium.       (Read More)

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

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

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

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

QUOTABLES FROM NBC'S 'LATE NIGHT WITH CONAN O'BRIEN' SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 5       (Read More)

From the home office in Wahoo, Nebraska... THE "LATE SHOW" TOP TWELVE "Perks of Being a NASCAR Driver"       (Read More)

From the home office in Wahoo, Nebraska... THE "LATE SHOW" TOP TEN "Signs You're Talking to a Fake Kim Jong-Il"       (Read More)

CBS HARNESSES THE POWER OF VIRAL VIDEO TO PROMOTE NEW FALL DRAMA "THE MENTALIST"

New York, N.Y. - September 8th, 2008.             To promote the new fall drama series THE MENTALIST, the CBS Marketing Group has engaged a leading U.K.-based psychologist to create three unique and innovative brain teaser videos that challenge viewers to test their powers of observation.

THE MENTALIST stars Simon Baker as Patrick Jane, an independent consultant with the California Bureau of Investigation (CBI), who has a remarkable track record for solving serious crimes by using his razor sharp skills of observation. Playing upon the show's theme, CBS has created three different video spots that test viewers' ability to be aware of everything that is happening in the videos, after being challenged to keep a count of a particular activity.  Each video depicts a unique motif - a card game, a football game and a gathering of security guards - and challenges viewers to watch closely.   (To see the mental awareness videos, go to:  http://www.cbs.com/primetime/the_mentalist/)

Designed by internationally known researcher Professor Richard Wiseman of the University of Hertfordshire in the U.K., the illusions challenge the brain's instinctual methods of processing motion, form, color, and depth. The one-minute videos were meticulously orchestrated by Professor Wiseman and filmed on location in London, with on-camera narration provided by Simon Baker.  

In mid-August, the "Mentalist Awareness Test" videos were posted on the top user-generated video content sites on the Web as well as across CBS Interactive's CBS Audience Network, with messaging driving users to cbs.com. The videos made their on-air debut on the Network, Friday, Sept. 5, during the CBS FALL PREVIEW SHOW (9:00-9:30 PM, ET/PT).

 

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JERRY O’CONNELL TO GUEST-STAR ON SEASON PREMIERE OF “MADtv” SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, ON FOX

Los Angeles, Ca. - September 4th, 2008.            Jerry O’Connell, star of the new FOX comedy DO NOT DISTURB, will make a special appearance on the season premiere of MADtv airing Saturday, Sept. 13 (11:00 PM-Midnight ET/PT) on FOX.  O’Connell will spoof Senator John Edwards in “Viva La Cheata,” a music video parody of Coldplay’s hit song “Viva La Vida.” Also on the 14th season premiere, MADtv cast member Keegan-Michael Key returns as “Fauxbama,” newcomer Erica Ash unveils her “Michelle Obama,” and returning cast members Bobby Lee and Arden Myrin will premiere their own versions of “John and Cindy McCain.”

With an impressive body of work that encompasses film and television, Jerry O’Connell is one of Hollywood’s most versatile and sought-after talents. O’Connell currently stars as “Neal,” the general manager of The Inn, one of New York City’s hottest and hippest hotels on the new FOX comedy DO NOT DISTURB. He recently completed filming the thriller “Obsessed” opposite Beyoncé Knowles and Ali Larter. His other film credits include the comedy “Yours, Mine and Ours” and the independent films “Man About Town” with Ben Affleck and “Room 6” with Christine Taylor. O’Connell starred on the comedy series “Carpoolers” and previously starred on the drama “Crossing Jordan” for six seasons as “Detective Woody Hoyt,” a character that crossed-over to the show “Las Vegas.” His other television credits include the series “Sliders,” the television movie “What the Deaf Man Heard” and the miniseries “The '60s.” 

 

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DAVID ARQUETTE SIGNS ON TO 'MY NAME IS EARL'

BURBNK, Ca. - September 3, 2008.           David Arquette ("Scream") will be making the trip to Camden County when he plays a hapless amateur stuntman in an upcoming episode of NBC's "My Name is Earl." The casting announcement was confirmed today by show creator and executive producer Greg Garcia.

In the episode, scheduled to air this fall, Earl decides it's time to make it up to local stunt man, Sweet Johnny (guest-star David Arquette, "Scream") for sleeping with his girlfriend 10-years-ago. When Earl finds Sweet Johnny, he discovers his friend has a permanent injury that makes righting the wrong seem almost impossible. Elsewhere, Joy (Jaime Pressly) buys a gun after someone carjacks the Brat, but Darnell (Eddie Steeples) does not approve of owning the firearm. Ethan Suplee and Nadine Velazquez also star.

The fourth season premiere of "My Name is Earl" is September 25 at 8 pm followed by another original episode at 8:30 pm on NBC.

 

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ANTHONY EDWARDS TO REPRISE HIS ROLE AS DR. MARK GREENE FOR ONE EPISODE OF 'ER' FOR ITS 15TH AND FINAL SEASON

BURBANK, Ca. – September 4, 2008.           NBC announced that Golden Globe winner and Emmy nominee Anthony Edwards will reprise his role as Dr. Mark Greene for one episode of NBC's long running show "ER" (Thursdays, 10-11 p.m. ET/PT). Edwards will return in the episode entitled "Heal Thyself," which was written and directed by executive producer David Zabel, and will air on November 13, 2008.

The installment will feature Dr. Greene in a series of newly shot scenes that will feature other characters from the show's past while also giving insight into Dr. Banfield's (Angela Bassett) past and her experiences within the walls of County General.

"We had hoped to bring back some of "ER's" stars for the final season and think that our loyal fans will enjoy seeing some of the shows most beloved and memorable characters," said executive producer John Wells.

Edwards first appeared in the "ER" pilot and after nearly eight memorable seasons, completed his run in a highly rated episode at the end of the 2001-02 television season.

Edwards has received four Emmy® nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. He also won three Screen Actor's Guild Awards (Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series in 1996, Best Ensemble Cast in 1998 and 1999), the Golden Globe Award in 1998 for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Drama and a People's Choice Award in 1995 for Favorite Male Performer in a New Television Series.

Edwards can next be seen in the feature film "Motherhood" with Uma Thurman. He was most recently in the film "Zodiac," directed by David Fincher. Other recent credits include "Thunderbirds" for Universal, "Northfork" written by the Polish brothers and "Don't Go Breaking My Heart," which he executive produced in association with his production company Aviator Films. The company also produced the NBC television movie, "Borderline," that starred "ER" alumna Sherry Stringfield.

Edwards has appeared in more than 20 features, including his memorable turn as "Goose" in the blockbuster feature "Top Gun." His other feature credits include; "Playing by Heart," "The Client," "Miracle Mile," "Mr. North," "Hawks," "The Sure Thing," "Gotcha," "Revenge of the Nerds," "Heart Like a Wheel," and "Fast Times at Ridgemont High."

Edwards made his film directorial debut with "Charley's Ghost Story," a modern-day Mark Twain adaptation starring Cheech Marin and Linda Fiorentino.

 

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 “AMERICAN IDOL” JUDGE KARA DIOGUARDI TO GUEST ON SEASON PREMIERE OF “TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN” SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, ON FOX

Los Angeles, Ca., - September 4th, 2008.            AMERICAN IDOL judge Kara DioGuardi is staying up late to chat with Spike Feresten on the season premiere of TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN airing Saturday, Sept. 13 (Midnight-12:30 AM ET/PT) on FOX. In the third season premiere, TALKSHOW also takes a road trip to Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN, home of the 2008 Republican National Convention, where Feresten, in a double-decker bus, brings his late-night antics to the streets of the Twin Cities.

DioGuardi recently joined AMERICAN IDOL as the fourth judge. 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, Céline Dion, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Santana and Pink. Scores of major recording artists including Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, The Pussycat Dolls, Miley Cyrus, 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. DioGuardi co-owns Arthouse Entertainment, where she develops and mentors fellow hit writers, producers and artists.

 

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

New York, N.Y., - September 8th, 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 (9:00-11:00 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).

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." His comedy special, "Jeffrey Ross: No Offense - Live From New Jersey," was shot in his home state before a live crowd in Atlantic City. It aired on Comedy Central in August and will be released on DVD in October. Jeff continues to tour regularly. He teams with Edyta Sliwinska, who is the only pro to compete in all seven seasons of the series.

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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OPRAH WINFREY TO MAKE A GUEST APPEARANCE AT "THE 60th PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS," SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC

New York, N.Y., - September 8th, 2008.            Oprah Winfrey will be returning to the Primetime Emmy Awards for a very special guest appearance celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the TV Academy. Winfrey will appear at the star-studded event which will broadcast live from the NOKIA Theatre in Los Angeles on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on ABC.
 
"Oprah Winfrey epitomizes all that is wonderful about television. Along with the Academy, our goal this year has been to celebrate this incredible medium. It is not only fitting, but an honor to have her be a part of this 60th Anniversary show," said Stephen McPherson, president, ABC Entertainment.
 
"Oprah Winfrey has been such a part of television for so many years that to have her participate in this year's show was very important to us. We're thrilled that she has accepted our invitation to be here to celebrate the TV Academy's 60th Anniversary," said Executive Producer Ken Ehrlich.
 
"The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards" is being produced by AEG Ehrlich Ventures LLC. Returning with Ehrlich are producer Renato Basile and co-producer Danette Herman. Louis J. Horvitz will be directing.

 

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"PROJECT RUNWAY" WINNER AND FASHION DESIGNER CHRISTIAN SIRIANO SELECTED TO DESIGN SECOND RED CARPET GOWN FOR "THE 60TH PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS" TROPHY PRESENTER

New York, N.Y., - September 8th, 2008.            ABC Last season's "Project Runway" winner and celebrity designer Christian Siriano has been chosen to design a red carpet gown for "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards" trophy girl, it was announced today by Ken Ehrlich, executive producer of the telecast. Last month it was announced that Lauren Conrad ("The Hills") will be designing a gown for a trophy presenter as well. "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards" will air live from the NOKIA Theatre in Los Angeles on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on the ABC Television Network.
 
"We are looking forward to showcasing two very talented designers at this year's Primetime Emmy Awards. Both Christian Siriano and Lauren Conrad will present a gown that reflects their style and personality," said Ehrlich.

"I am honored to design a gown for this year's Primetime Emmy Awards trophy presenter. It has been so inspiring watching the Emmys every year to see who is going to be the most fabulous diva at the show. It's wonderful to see what the stars are wearing and which designer takes over the carpet. It will be such an experience seeing my own creation on stage," added Siriano.

Siriano, who has worked with designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen, got his big break when he earned a spot on season four of "Project Runway" and then went on to become the show's youngest ever winner. He is currently hard at work designing a collection to be shown during New York's Spring Fashion Week.

 

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REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN (R-AZ.) AND WIFE CINDY HENSLEY MCCAIN RETURN TO "THE VIEW," LIVE, SEPT. 12

New York, N.Y., - September 5th, 2008.            Senator and Mrs. McCain's Appearance Marks the Launch of "Red, White & View,"A New Show Campaign Highlighting the 2008 Political Race Republican Presidential nominee and senior Senator from Arizona John McCain will make his fifth guest appearance on ABC's talk and entertainment program, "The View," live, FRIDAY, SEPT. 12 (11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon, ET), and will be joined by his wife, Cindy Hensley McCain. Senator and Mrs. McCain's appearance marks the launch of the show's "Red, White & View" campaign highlighting interviews and informational segments that promote civic responsibility in the upcoming election.

Senator and Mrs. McCain will be the only featured guests. They will be interviewed by hosts Barbara Walters, Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Elisabeth Hasselbeck and Sherri Shepherd. Senator McCain has made four prior appearances on "The View": April 10, 2008, Nov. 8, 2005, July 12, 2004 and his very first appearance on Sept. 1, 2004, joined by his wife, Cindy Hensley McCain, the day after he spoke at the Republican National Convention. This will be Mrs. McCain's third appearance on "The View." Her last appearance was as the featured guest co-host on April 21, 2008, garnering both local and national media coverage.

 

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THIRD SET OF PRESENTERS ANNOUNCED FOR "THE 60th PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS"

New York, N.Y., - September 5th, 2008.            Kristin Chenoweth & Neil Patrick Harris to Present Together The third set of presenters for "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards" includes Kristin Chenoweth, Kathy Griffin, Neil Patrick Harris, Conan O'Brien, Christian Slater, Don Rickles and Kate Walsh. The telecast will originate live from the NOKIA Theatre in Los Angeles on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on ABC.

"As we near the telecast, there will be more sets of presenters that will surprise almost everyone," said Executive Producer Ken Ehrlich. "We are pleased to have such comedic figures as Kathy Griffin and Don Rickles presenting together. In addition, we are excited to re-pair Kristin Chenoweth and Neil Patrick Harris together, as the chemistry they displayed at this year's Primetime Emmy nominations was just terrific."

Kristin Chenoweth received her first Primetime Emmy Award nomination this year for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her portrayal of Olive Snook on ABC's "Pushing Daisies." Her television credits include "Ugly Betty," "The West Wing," "The Music Man," "Annie" and her own series, "Kristin." She recently starred in the original Encores! Production, "Stairway to Paradise," which celebrated the great Broadway revue. This past spring she starred in the critically successful "The Apple Tree" at the Roundabout Theatre Company's Studio 54. Other stage credits include her Tony Award-winning performance in "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" and her Tony-nominated portrayal of Glinda the Good Witch in "Wicked." She also performed in the Broadway comedy "Epic Proportions," "Steel Pier," and in the off-Broadway production of "Scapin." Film credits include "Deck the Halls," "RV," "Bewitched," "Running with Scissors" and "The Pink Panther." Currently Chenoweth's voice can be heard in the comedy animation adventure "Space Chimp" with Cheryl Hines.

2007 Primetime Emmy Award winner Kathy Griffin received her third Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Reality Program for the Bravo reality series "Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List." She has also received another nomination for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special for "Kathy Griffin: Straight to Hell." Television credits include "Suddenly Susan," "ER," "Seinfeld," "The X-Files," HBO's "Half Hour Comedy Special" and "A Hot Cup of Talk." She has also lent her voice to such animated television series as "Dilbert" and "The Simpsons."

Neil Patrick Harris received his second Primetime Emmy nomination this year for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his performance as Barney Stinson on CBS' "How I Met Your Mother." A television favorite since his Golden Globe Award-nominated role in "Doogie Howser, M.D.," Harris has firmly established himself in all mediums. Onstage he most recently starred in Arthur Miller's "All My Sons" at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. Other recent theater credits include star turns in the London musical production of Jonathan Larson's "Tick, Tick...Boom," the Tony Award-winning musical "Assassins," "Cabaret" and "Proof." Harris' television credits include the series "Stark Raving Mad," "Will & Grace," "NUMB3RS," the miniseries "Joan of Arc" and the CBS television movie "The Christmas Blessing." His film work began with "Clara's Heart" and includes the recent release, "Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay."

Primetime Emmy Award winner Conan O'Brien received an Emmy Award in 2007 for Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Program for NBC's "Late Night with Conan O'Brien," a first for the show. In 2002 he brought his signature wit and style to his hosting duties on "The 54th Primetime Emmy Awards." He returned to host "The 58th Primetime Emmy Awards" in 2006, captivating the crowd with filmed pieces and a full-tilt song-and-dance number. Prior to his tenure as host of "Late Night," O'Brien was a writer/producer for "The Simpsons" and an Emmy-winning writer on "Saturday Night Live." Beginning June 1, 2009, he will take over the reins on NBC's "Tonight Show."

This fall Christian Slater will be seen in NBC's new drama series, "My Own Worst Enemy," as both Henry Spivey and Edward Albright, a man with two lives and personalities. Slater recently returned to London to star in "Swimming with Sharks," directed by Wilson Milan, playing producer Buddy Ackerman, the mastermind of a top studio's high grossing, ultra violent horror slate and one of Hollywood's most powerful men. In 2006 Slater reprised his critically acclaimed role as Randle P. McMurphy in the Really Useful Group's production of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," which earned him a Whatsonstage Best Actor Award and the Favorite Actor Award two years in a row at the Big Star Awards. Slater's producing credits include "Basil" and "Hard Rain," in both of which he also starred, and he served as an executive producer on Peter Berg's "Very Bad Things." In 1996 he made his directorial debut with "Museum of Love," a short film for Showtime. Recent film credits include "Slipsteam," "He Was a Quiet Man" and "Bobby."

Don Rickles received his first Primetime Emmy Award nomination this year for Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program for "Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project." The special features behind-the-scenes conversations with Rickles, interviews with almost 40 comedians, actors and industry notables, including Bob Newhart, Clint Eastwood, Whoopi Goldberg, Chris Rock, Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, Robert DeNiro and Martin Scorsese, as well as a wealth of memorable TV and film clips. Still going strong at 81, Rickles is a national institution, as he continues to sell out concert venues and clubs around the country.

Kate Walsh can be seen as Dr. Addison Montgomery in the ABC drama series "Private Practice," the spin-off to ABC's "Grey's Anatomy." While on "Grey's Anatomy," she and her fellow cast members received the 2007 Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. Walsh recently finished production on the Screen Gems thriller, "Legion," opposite Dennis Quaid and Paul Bettany. Other feature credits include "Kicking and Screaming," "Under the Tuscan Sun," "After the Sunset," "Inside Out" and "The Family Man." Television credits include "The Mike O'Malley Show," "The Mind of the Married Man" and "The Drew Carey Show."

 

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PATRICIA HEATON, TREAT WILLIAMS AND JIMMY WOLK STAR IN "FRONT OF THE CLASS," A NEW "HALLMARK HALL OF FAME" PRESENTATION THAT HAS BEGUN PRODUCTION FOR BROADCAST ON CBS

New York, N.Y., - September 4th, 2008.             FRONT OF THE CLASS, a new "Hallmark Hall of Fame" presentation starring Patricia Heaton ("Everybody Loves Raymond"), Treat Williams ("Everwood") and Jimmy Wolk ("The Spiral Project"), has started production in Shreveport, La. for broadcast on the CBS Television Network.  The drama is based on the true story of Brad Cohen (Wolk), who, after being challenged by Tourette's syndrome from a very young age, defies all odds to become a gifted teacher.

As a child, Brad Cohen was teased and ridiculed because of the disruptive sounds and sudden jerking movements he could not control.  Teachers and other adults, including his own father, thought he was just trying to get attention, unaware that he suffered from a disability that he was helpless to change.  It was not until his condition was correctly diagnosed that a school principal finally understood what was really going on and used a school assembly to educate the faculty and students. Following that event, Brad began to win their understanding and acceptance.

The experience led Brad to decide to become the teacher he never had, so that he could help others become more tolerant of those who are different from themselves.  But, he still had some obstacles to overcome before his goal could be attained.

Patricia Heaton  plays Brad's mother, Ellen.  Treat Williams plays Brad's father, Norman.

 

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'TODAY' TAKES ON BATTLEGROUND STATES

New York, N.Y., - September 8th, 2008.            Amid one of the most extraordinary and hard-fought presidential campaigns in history, NBC News' "Today" will take the show on the road and broadcast live from crucial "battleground states" where the White House may be lost or won. Over four straight days, starting Monday, September 22nd, "Today" will zero in on the deep divisions and cultural chasms that have turned these states into hotbeds of political combat. Matt Lauer, Meredith Vieira, Ann Curry and Al Roker will focus on all of the flashpoints, and "Today" will take a battlefield-level look at how the McCain and Obama camps are fighting it out on the ground.

America's number-one morning program will kick off "'Today Takes on the Battleground States" live from Philadelphia on Monday, September 22. The show will then travel to Tampa, Florida for Tuesday's broadcast, continuing to Norfolk, Virginia on Wednesday. The series will conclude in Detroit on Thursday, the day before the presidential debate in Oxford, Mississippi.

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NBC SERVES UP FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY SPECIALS WITH ACCENT ON ALL-NEW ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING ALONG WITH TRADITIONAL SEASONAL CHESTNUTS

Burbank, Ca., – September 8th, 2008.           NBC unwrapped its 2008 holiday specials lineup early with an accent on original and family-friendly programs featuring the new animated special "Macy's Presents Little Spirit: Christmas in New York," "Letters to Santa – A Muppets Christmas" and three new holiday countdown specials -- "Greatest Holiday TV Specials and Movies," "Greatest Holiday Songs" and "Greatest Holiday Home Videos." These new holiday specials join traditional NBC favorites including the "Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade," "The National Dog Show Presented by Purina," "Christmas in Rockefeller Center," the annual airing of the feature film classic "It's a Wonderful Life" and "The 120th Tournament of Roses Parade."

The announcements were made today by Craig Plestis, Executive Vice President, Alternative Programming, Development and Specials, NBC Entertainment.

"This holiday season, NBC will present more original programming than ever before with all-new specials from the beloved Muppets as well as 'Little Spirit,' which are likely to become new holiday classics," said Plestis. "These projects will also join new renditions of our annual favorites such as the 'Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade' and the 'National Dog Show,' plus the beauty of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree-lighting. We want to give our viewers, especially families, some great original shows that they can gather around the TV and watch together this holiday season."

"Macy's Presents Little Spirit: Christmas in New York" will be broadcast on Wednesday, December 10 (8-9 p.m. ET). Likewise, "Letters to Santa – A Muppets Christmas" will be shown on Wednesday, December 17 (8-9 p.m. ET).

"Christmas in Rockefeller Center" will air on Wednesday, December 3 (8-9 p.m. ET). "Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" will be broadcast on Thursday, November 27 (9 a.m.-12 noon in each time zone) and "The Purina National Dog Show" will follow the parade from 12 – 2 p.m. ET.

NBC will once again reprise "It's a Wonderful Life" -- the most famous Christmas film of them all -- from Oscar-winning director Frank Capra, on December 13 (8-11 p.m. ET) and 24 (8-11 p.m. ET).

In addition, NBC will celebrate the "120th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade" live from Pasadena, California on Tuesday, January 1, 2009 (11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET).

Airdates for the three Holiday Countdown Specials will be announced later.

In "Macy's Presents Little Spirit: Christmas in New York," an all-star cast that includes Danny DeVito, Lucy Liu, Freddy Rodriguez, Brenda Song and NBC News' Brian Williams lend their voices to the new animated holiday special that features original songs and music by Duncan Sheik, the Tony Award-winning writer and composer of Broadway's "Spring Awakening." The unique program stylistically blends the look of traditional painting with contemporary 3-D technology – creating an aesthetic that is both classic and innovative.

The story begins at the peak of the holiday season as two sisters spend a taxi ride in New York City listening to an exciting story from a gruff but amiable cabbie (DeVito). He describes a boy named Leo who moves to Manhattan just before Christmas -- but overwhelmed by the size of the city and its many new faces, he soon loses his beloved dog, Ramona. Suddenly a magical creature named "Little Spirit" appears to help him search for Ramona as they begin a journey of discovery that will introduce Leo to new friends and colorful places in the city as Christmas nears. "Macy's presents Little Spirit: Christmas in New York" is executive-produced by Macy's Parade and Entertainment Group, Mediaedge:cia and Curious Pictures."

In "Letters to Santa -- A Muppets Christmas," the Emmy and Grammy-award winning Muppets deliver an all new one-hour special filled with songs, mayhem and heaps of holiday high spirits. On Christmas Eve, Kermit, Fozzie, Gonzo and the rest of the gang mistakenly avert three letters from making their way to Santa Claus. Can they get the letters to Santa in time? Needless to say, nothing—not even Miss Piggy's planned trip to the tropics--can stand between the Muppets and a happy Christmas. With songs by Paul Williams (songwriter for "The Muppet Movie"), an all-star cast including Whoopi Goldberg, Richard Griffiths, Tony Sirico, Steve Schirripa and Madison Pettis, and a heartfelt message about the true meaning of the holiday season, "Letters to Santa--A Muppets Christmas" is a new holiday family classic. Produced by Muppets Productions, Inc.

NBC will present three holiday countdown specials from Juma Entertainment, executive produced by Robert Horowitz and Lewis Fenton:

"Greatest Holiday TV Specials and Movies" features clips from the most-loved holiday TV specials and films. From animated TV classics to the must see holiday films of the past and present, we'll rank the greatest holiday moments that ever graced the screen.

"Greatest Holiday Songs" will count down the best performances of both classic and contemporary Christmas songs. From timeless tunes from the great crooners to recent essentials from the more modern pop stars, we will recount the greatest songs of the season.

"Greatest Holiday Home Videos" goes home for the holidays as we count down the most hilarious and entertaining holiday moments sent in from families' home videos across the country. This special will be an hour of non-stop family fun where we choose from thousands of submissions, and rank the best America has to offer from holiday mishaps to memorable moments to classic Christmas season chaos.

The "Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" celebrates its 82nd anniversary on NBC as America's favorite Thanksgiving Day parade features all the spectacular pageantry, fun and surprises that have made the annual New York City extravaganza a perennial favorite. Heralding the start of the Christmas season, the beloved parade features colorful grand floats, lively marching bands, amazing character balloons and special performances by some of today's hottest stars and Broadway performers -- plus an appearance by Santa Claus. Brad Lachman is the executive producer of this live (in some time zones), three-hour special from NBC Entertainment.

John O' Hurley returns as host of "The National Dog Show Presented By Purina," a purebred canine competition that is part of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia's annual dog show. The show -- one of the oldest and most prestigious sporting events in North America -- is one of only five remaining "benched" dog shows where the public can interact with the show dogs. With expert commentary from David Frei, "the dean" of dog show commentators, the show is expected to feature more than 2,000 of the nation's leading canines representing more than 150 breeds, including some of the world's most largest, smallest and most exotic breeds, all vying for "Best in Show" honors. "The National Dog Show Presented by Purina" is a property of NBC and Carson International of Ketchum, Idaho.

"Christmas in Rockefeller Center" is a star-studded, live broadcast from Rockefeller Center in New York City and celebrates the lighting of the world's most famous Christmas tree. The special will include a popular musical lineup celebrating the current hits and favorite holiday music from the world of entertainment.

NBC again presents this exclusive and special telecast of Frank Capra's 1946 holiday classic, "It's a Wonderful Life," starring James Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore. The film follows the life of George Bailey (Stewart) from childhood to maturity in the town of Bedford Falls. On what might be his last Christmas Eve, a discouraged Bailey wants to throw his life away. Fortunately, Clarence (Henry Travers), a second-class angel, is sent to show him the value of life. After Clarence gives Bailey a view of Bedford Falls without him, Bailey realizes how precious his life is and gets a second chance. He comes to learn that Clarence was right when he said, "No man is a failure who has friends." The film, which earned Oscar nominations for best picture, director, actor and film editing, was produced and directed by Capra.

NBC will celebrate the "120th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade" live from Pasadena, California on New Year's Day. The parade will feature all the lavish floral floats, spectacular marching bands and high-stepping equestrian teams that have made the event the most popular New Year's Day celebration in the world. This year's Rose Queen and her court will also appear, along with special guests on magnificent floats. NBC has been broadcasting the parade for 82 years, beginning on radio in 1927 and then televising the event beginning in 1954. Additional details for the parade will be announced at a later date.

 

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NBC ENCOURAGING AMERICANS TO LIVE HEALTHIER, MORE ACTIVE LIVES WITH 'THE BIGGEST LOSER LEAGUE,' A SUPPORTIVE SOCIAL NETWORK ON NBC.COM, KICKING OFF IN CONJUNCTION WITH NBC'S SEASON PREMIERE OF 'THE BIGGEST LOSER: FAMILIES' ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Burbank, Ca., – September 9th, 2008.           NBC is committed to helping Americans live healthier, more active lives with "The Biggest Loser League" www.thebiggestloserleague.com), a supportive social network on NBC.com kicking off right before the premiere of NBC's "The Biggest Loser: Families" on Tuesday, September 16 (8-10 p.m. ET).

"The Biggest Loser League" will allow people to create their own teams and recruit members from their communities at any level – families, friends, cities, companies, schools, organizations and neighborhoods. The site will provide the tools and resources needed for team leaders to create motivational messages, grab tips and weight loss tracking widgets, and utilize a tool kit of food journals, workout logs and challenge tips. Teams will also be able to compete against other teams to start living healthier, more active lifestyles while earning points for participation.

In addition to user-generated challenges, there will also be a weekly challenge that relates to that week's on-air episode of "The Biggest Loser: Families." The site will include helpful features like profiles, message boards, photo and video galleries and blogs for teams and members, a weight/BMI tracker, exercise, diet and motivational tips and a robust search page to help users find new friends or teams to join. It will also offer welcome kits for captains, leaderboards to track top point-earning teams and members, and special promotions and offers from the NBC store and www.biggestloserclub.com. Select teams may also be featured online and on NBC's local affiliate stations.

"'The Biggest Loser League' is the perfect example of what can happen when great television meets an active online community. With NBC.com's social networking capabilities, the possibilities are endless," said Vivi Zigler, President, NBC Universal Digital Entertainment. "We're really excited to see how far these enthusiastic, engaged fans will take it."

Some of the teams already proposed by fans include:

College Crusaders – College students who want to get healthy while getting their degrees!
Super Stay-at-Home Moms – Stay-at-home and work-from-home mothers who want to get fit!
Bay Area Beauties – For people who live in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Single & Sassy – Single gals looking to get back their confidence!
The Fifties – People looking to stay fit at 50.
The Wild Oats – The Biggest Loser League's vegetarian team!
Newlyweds – Newly wed, not newly fed...stay fit after saying "I do."
Yummy Mummies – Moms trying to lose the baby fat, even if their babies are all grown up!
Brides to Be – Dropping the weight in preparation for the big day.

"The Biggest Loser League" is the ideal way to encourage everyone from viewers at home to employees of major corporations to improve their health and their lives through a supportive and motivational online community. One top company already on board is Willis Group Holdings Limited, a leading global insurance broker which develops and delivers professional insurance, reinsurance, risk management, financial and human resource consulting and actuarial services to corporations, public entities and institutions around the world. Willis has more than 300 offices in some 100 countries, with a global team of approximately 16,000 associates serving clients in some 190 countries.

"We are excited to be partnering with NBC's 'The Biggest Loser' to promote 'The Biggest Loser League' and our new Winning With Willis program. We share a common goal: to help Americans lead healthier lives," said Mike Barton, leader of the Willis Employee Benefits Practice. "Nearly 80 percent of medical claims today are the result of long-term lifestyle choices. That's why companies want to encourage diet and exercise among their employees as a way to better manage ever-escalating healthcare costs, workers compensation losses and absenteeism. We can help them do that with our innovative program to support employee health and wellness. And the power of 'The Biggest Loser' brand gives us the instant recognition we need to make this program a tremendous success."

"The Biggest Loser" is a life-changing unscripted series that challenges and encourages overweight contestants to shed pounds in a safe and recommended manner through comprehensive diet and exercise as they compete for a grand prize of $250,000. Hosted by Alison Sweeney ("Days of our Lives") and featuring trainers Bob Harper and Jillian Michaels, the popular weight loss series has become a worldwide hit airing in over 90 countries and produced in 25 countries. It has produced a New York Times best-selling book series with five titles currently. The show also has four top-selling fitness DVDs and a "Biggest Loser" meal plan available for home purchase (www.biggestlosermealplan.com), as well as a burgeoning online lifestyle club www.thebiggestloserclub.com.

 

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ACTOR MORGAN FREEMAN, SINGER GEORGE JONES, ACTRESS, SINGER AND DIRECTOR BARBRA STREISAND, CHOREOGRAPHER TWYLA THARP AND MUSICIANS PETE TOWNSHEND AND ROGER DALTREY OF THE WHO, TO RECEIVE HONORS DURING "THE 31ST ANNUAL KENNEDY CENTER HONORS," TO BE BROADCAST THIS DECEMBER ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

New York, N.Y., - September 8th, 2008.            Actor Morgan Freeman, singer George Jones, actress, singer and director Barbra Streisand, choreographer Twyla Tharp, and musicians Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey of The Who will receive honors for the year 2008, on THE 31ST ANNUAL KENNEDY CENTER HONORS, to be broadcast this December on the CBS Television Network.  This marks the 31st year of the special, which has been broadcast on CBS each year since its debut.

In a star-studded celebration on the Kennedy Center Opera House stage, the 2008 Honorees will be saluted by great performers from Hollywood and the arts capitals of the world.  Seated with President and Mrs. Bush, the Honorees will accept the thanks of their peers and fans through performances and heartfelt tributes.   

"With their extraordinary genius and tenacity, the 2008 Honorees have redefined the way we see, hear and feel the performing arts. We will forever be thankful for the great gifts they have shared with us," said Kennedy Center Chairman Stephen A. Schwarzman.  "Morgan Freeman's name is synonymous with great screen acting and is one of the most respected performers in American cinema. With his unique voice and extraordinary career endurance, singer George Jones has been instrumental in making country music a vital force in American life. Barbra Streisand's trailblazing career in music, theater, films and television is one of the most thrilling spectacles of our culture. Choreographer Twyla Tharp is an American original, whose work has indelibly enriched the vocabulary of modern dance, contemporary ballet and the Broadway musical. As the heart and soul of the seminal band The Who, songwriters and singers Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey transformed the sights and sounds of rock and roll."

The President and Mrs. Bush will receive the Honorees and members of the Artists Committee who nominate them and the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees at the White House prior to the gala performance taping on Dec. 7.  The 2008 Kennedy Center Honors Gala concludes with a dinner dance in the Grand Foyer. The Kennedy Center Honors will be bestowed the night before the gala at a State Department dinner, hosted by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

The Honors recipients are recognized for their lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts - whether in dance, music, theater, opera, motion pictures or television - and are selected by the Kennedy Center's Board of Trustees.  Members of the Kennedy Center's national artists committee as well as past Honorees made recommendations.  The primary criterion in the selection process is excellence.  The Honors are not designated by art form or category of artistic achievement.  The selection process over the years has produced balance among the various arts and artistic disciplines.

 

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ABC NEWS SPONSORS FIVE COLLEGE BUREAUS TO KICK-OFF ABC NEWS ON CAMPUS JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

New York, N.Y., - September 8th, 2008.            News Division Announces Five College Bureau Chiefs at Top Journalism Schools ABC News today announced the sponsoring of five college campus bureaus as part of the network's ABC News on Campus initiative, and named the five college bureau chiefs at the respective schools. The program is a partnership with five top journalism schools across the country to educate and mentor talented college students. The News division created the on campus multimedia bureaus to provide opportunities for student journalists to report on stories in their area and produce a wide array of content for ABC News' various digital and broadcast platforms, including ABCNEWS.com, ABC News NOW, "Good Morning America," "World News with Charles Gibson," "Nightline," mtvU, ABC News Radio and NewsOne.

"The college journalists have quickly impressed us with their ability to deliver relevant and compelling reports," said ABC News' President David Westin. "We are excited to help guide these bright young journalism students and share their reporting efforts with our audiences."    

The 2008 ABC News on Campus college bureaus chiefs are:

* Emily Graham, Student Bureau Chief, Arizona State University, Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication
* Jason Tarr , Student Bureau Chief, Syracuse University, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
* Robert Bradfield, Student Bureau Chief, University of Florida, College of Journalism and Communications
* Carly Swain, Student Bureau Chief, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Journalism and Mass Communication
* Sara Loeffelholz, Student Bureau Chief, University of Texas at Austin School of Journalism

On the heels of both parties' conventions, the ABC News college bureaus debut their content with a number of political stories, including how college republicans are outnumbered and how it affects them, a report on Senator Joe Biden's Law School days at Syracuse University and rising independent voter registration at colleges. One bureau examines the burden college students face when applying for federal financial help, profiling one young man whose part-time job excludes him from receiving financial aid. Additionally, there is a multi-media binge drinking series that reports on how colleges are divided on a controversial proposed law to lower the drinking age. Starting today this content is available at http://www.abcnewsoncampus.com, the ABC News on Campus dedicated website.

The content on the ABC News on Campus site is produced by the college bureau journalists, who are in touch with the issues and events that impact their communities. The site features video, articles, slideshows and other sections including:

* Up-to-the minute reports on the "Campus Chatter" blog, which is being kicked off by University of Florida student Miles Doran and University of Texas student Chelsey Delaney.
* An opportunity for anyone interested in contributing online to share his/her voice at "On Campus Sound Off," a section where participants can see their comments posted.
* In the coming weeks, the site will have a dedicated sports section called ABC's Wide World of College Sports, which will capture the unpredictable and sometimes amusing side of college sports events around the country.

As part of the initiative, ABC News NOW, ABC's 24-hour digital network, will debut a new show entitled "ABC News NOW on Campus" on Thursday, October 2. The weekly half-hour program, focusing on the issues surrounding college students' lives, will air on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m., ET. Hosted by ABC News NOW anchor Tanya Rivero, the program will center on reporting from the ABC News on Campus bureaus. "ABC News NOW on Campus" will be available exclusively on broadband, cable and mobile channels, while portions will be available anytime on demand at http://www.abcnewsoncampus.com.

 

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NBC UNIVERSAL CELEBRATES DIVERSITY WITH THIRD ANNUAL 'COMEDY SHORT CUTS' FILM FESTIVAL HONORING SEMI-FINALIST FILMMAKERS ON SEPTEMBER 15 IN NEW YORK CITY

Burbank, Ca.,  - September 9th, 2008.           NBC Universal's multi-pronged creative entities will conduct the company's third annual "Comedy Short Cuts" Diversity Film Festival honoring this year's semi-finalist filmmakers on September 15 in New York City as part of the New York Television Festival, it was announced today by Ben Silverman, Co-Chairman, NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios.

This year, the event also includes corporate sponsors Showbiz Software, American Airlines and the Coca-Cola Company.

"We are proud to continue our tradition of supporting this influential film festival that encourages innovative young filmmakers and enhances our vital diversity program," said Silverman. "Equally important is that we provide a marquee venue that will allow their hard work to be seen by prominent industry executives who are always looking for wonderful new talent."

Comedy Short Cuts is just one of many live events that NBC's Talent Diversity Initiative produces to cultivate diversity both in front of and behind the camera. Creative executives from this year's executive selection committee represent NBC, Universal Media Studios, SCI FI, Bravo, USA, Oxygen, Focus Features and Rogue Pictures.

The Comedy Short Cuts festival is also a celebration of www.diversecitynbc.com, the online community that serves as a hub for diversity across all aspects of the entertainment industry spearheaded by Kendra Carter, Director Talent Diversity Initiatives, for NBC Universal.

The semi-finalist screening, hosted by Anthony Anderson of NBC's "Law & Order," will begin at 7 p.m. on September 15 at the New World Stages at 340 West 50th Street in New York City. The screening is free and open to the public. The finalists' films -- which will celebrate all aspects of NBC Universal's diversity efforts -- will be shown later at an exclusive industry event on October 23 in Los Angeles.
Said Paula Madison, Executive Vice President of Diversity, NBC Universal: "Comedy Short Cuts brings together the many assets of NBC Universal and remains an essential component in our ongoing efforts to realize more diversity within our programming. In addition, it is exciting and entertaining just to see the full spectrum of film creativity that is presented at the festival, knowing that the finalists will see their work spotlighted on a huge stage."

To emphasize that point, Universal Media Studios will offer a pilot script commitment this year to one of the finalist filmmakers.

"We are proud to sponsor the 2008 NBC Comedy Short-Cuts Film Festival as part of our commitment to emerging talent in television and film," says Steve Bizenov, Vice President, Sales & Software Development for Media Services, who oversees the company's Showbiz Software division. "We've supported the independent production industry for years by delivering better software, services and resources to indie filmmakers, so it was a natural fit for us to participate in this important initiative."

 

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JOSH GROBAN TO PERFORM TELEVISION'S GREATEST THEME SONGS LIVE ON "THE 60TH PRIMETIME EMMY® AWARDS," SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC 

New York, N.Y., - September 10th, 2008.            Josh Groban, who recorded last year's No. 1-selling CD, will perform a once in a lifetime medley of more than 25 of television's most memorable themes on "The 60th Primetime Emmy Awards," airing live, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on ABC.
 
"In honor of the Emmy Awards' 60th Anniversary, Josh's medley will touch on some of television's most resonant theme songs - including from "Friends," "The Simpsons," "The Brady Bunch" and many more -- the actual full list of show titles is being kept a secret until the show. This will truly be an unforgettable performance," said Executive Producer Ken Ehrlich.
 
Groban, a multi-platinum classical pop singer, has had an extraordinarily busy summer. After releasing his latest live CD/DVD, "Awake Live," in May, he appeared as The Russian in a 21st-anniversary concert performance of the cult musical "Chess" at London's Royal Albert Hall. In June he made a very special appearance at the Nelson Mandela 90th Birthday Celebration concert in London's Hyde Park, performing his songs "Weeping" and "Machine" before more than 46,000 people. Also over the summer, he recorded a duet with legendary operatic tenor Plácido Domingo entitled "La Tua Semplicità," which will be featured on Domingo's upcoming album. In addition Groban recorded a version of "La Bohème" with beloved French singer Charles Aznavour. Their duet will appear on the 84-year-old singer-songwriter's upcoming new album.

An internationally renowned performer who has sold more than 23 million albums worldwide, Groban has thrilled a legion of devoted fans with his flawless baritone and extraordinary stage presence. The 27-year-old Los Angeles native first broke through in 2001 with his self-titled double-platinum debut, followed by 2003's multi-platinum "Closer," featuring the smash hit, "You Raise Me Up," and 2006's double-platinum "Awake." In 2007 the Grammy-nominated star became the best-selling recording artist of the year thanks to sales of "Awake" and his blockbuster Christmas album, "Noel" - the best-selling album of 2007. Groban has recently released his third live DVD, entitled "Awake Live." Filmed in front of 15,000 fans at Salt Lake City's Energy Solutions Arena during Groban's 81-city "Awake World Tour," the DVD includes electrifying versions of his hit singles, "You Are Loved (Don't Give Up)," "February Song" and "Awake."
 

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KENNY CHESNEY LEADS FINALISTS WITH SEVEN NOMINATIONS FOR "THE 42nd ANNUAL CMA AWARDS," COUNTRY MUSIC'S BIGGEST NIGHT
New York, N.Y., - September 10th, 2008.            2008 CMA Awards Will Broadcast Live from the Sommet Center in Nashville Wednesday, November 12 on the ABC Television Network The announcement of the final nominees in five of the 12 CMA Awards categories was made on "Good Morning America" studios in the heart of New York City's Times Square by Rascal Flatts and Taylor Swift. "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" will be broadcast live from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Wednesday, November 12 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

"We look forward to this exciting time of the year when ABC spotlights the best and brightest of today's Country music artists and their achievements," said Vicki Dummer, senior vice president, Alternative Series, Specials and Late-Night, ABC Entertainment. "Today's announcement of these exceptional nominees begins our celebration of one of our biggest nights in programming, the CMA Awards."

"Country Music thrives on the talent and creativity of an outstanding group of artists, and they are well represented with our nominees," said CMA Chief Executive Officer Tammy Genovese. "These talented performers, musicians, songwriters, producers and directors demonstrate the artistic depth and creativity of our format, and the 2008 CMA Awards will definitely reflect that in November."

At the conclusion of the announcements, Kenny Chesney led the list of nominees with seven nominations. Chesney, the reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year, was nominated in that category again, as well as Male Vocalist; Album for "Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates"; Single for "Don't Blink"; two Musical Event nominations, one with Reba McEntire for "Every Other Weekend" and one with George Strait for "Shiftwork"; and Music Video of the Year for "Don't Blink," which was directed by Shaun Silva. Chesney could receive two additional trophies for producing his Album and Single with Buddy Cannon.

Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland collected six nominations - five for Sugarland and a solo nod for writing "Stay," which was nominated for Song of the Year. The duo's five nominations include Entertainer, their first nomination in this coveted category; Single for "Stay"; Vocal Duo, which they won for the first time in 2007; Musical Event for "Life in a Northern Town" with Little Big Town and Jake Owen; and Music Video of the Year for "Stay," also directed by Silva. Nettles and Kristian Bush may also receive a second trophy for producing "Stay" with Byron Gallimore.

Strait also received five nominations including Entertainer; Male Vocalist; Album for "Troubadour"; Single for "I Saw God Today"; and Musical Event of the Year with Chesney on "Shiftwork." Strait could also receive two additional trophies for producing his Single and Album with Tony Brown. Other nominees benefiting from Strait's windfall are songwriters Rodney Clawson, Monty Criswell and Wade Kirby, who were nominated for Song of the Year for "I Saw God Today." Strait now has 75 career CMA Awards nominations, trailing only Alan Jackson, who has 79 with this year's nominations for Male Vocalist; Album for "Good Time," which was produced by Keith Stegall; Song for "Good Time," written by Jackson; and Music Video of the Year for "Good Time," directed by Trey Fanjoy.

Brad Paisley also received four nominations this year, including Entertainer; Male Vocalist, which he won in 2007; Song for "Letter to Me," written by Paisley; and Music Video of the Year for "Waitin' on a Woman," directed by Jim Shea. Keith Urban rounds out the list of Entertainer of the Year nominees. Urban is also nominated for Male Vocalist of the Year. He won the category in 2005.

After winning CMA Female Vocalist of the Year in 2006 and 2007, Carrie Underwood is back in 2008 with two nominations for Female Vocalist, and Album of the Year for "Carnival Ride," produced by Mark Bright.

Alison Krauss is also nominated for Female Vocalist, as well as Musical Event for her performance with first-time CMA Awards nominee Robert Plant on "Gone, Gone, Gone." Miranda Lambert is nominated for Female Vocalist for the second year and is also nominated for Single of the Year for "Gunpowder & Lead," produced by Frank Liddell and Mike Wrucke. Completing the Female Vocalist of the Year category are reigning Horizon Award winner Taylor Swift, making her debut in the category, and Martina McBride. McBride has won the category four times (1999, 2002-2004). She is currently tied with Reba McEntire (1984-1987) for the most Female Vocalist wins in CMA Awards history - even surpassing Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette's previous records. With McEntire's nomination for Musical Event of the Year with Chesney, she retains her position as the female artist with the highest number of nominations in the 42-year history of the CMA Awards, with 46.

It's been more than 30 years since their last CMA Awards nomination for Vocal Group of the Year (1976, 1977), but the Eagles are back in the category in 2008. A new addition to the category this year is Lady Antebellum, who are also nominated for New Artist of the Year. Rascal Flatts has swept the Vocal Group of the Year category the past five years and is nominated in that category again in 2008. Rounding out the groups are Emerson Drive, their second year in the category, and Little Big Town, who are also nominated for Musical Event of the Year with Sugarland and Jake Owen.

An artist may only be nominated for the New Artist of the Year Award (formerly Horizon Award) two times, and this year there are a mix of new hopefuls with Lady Antebellum and James Otto, joining two-time nominees Jason Aldean, Rodney Atkins and Kellie Pickler.

Brooks & Dunn hold the title of most career CMA Awards wins with 19. They may increase that total by two this year with nominations for Vocal Duo, which they have won a record-setting 14 times, and Album of the Year for "Cowboy Town," produced by Tony Brown, Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks.

Trace Adkins also received two nominations this year for the poignant "You're Gonna Miss This," which was nominated for Single and Music Video of the Year. The No. 1 hit was also nominated for Song of the Year for songwriters Ashley Gorley and Lee Thomas Miller.

The final list of nominees for "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" covers the broadest spectrum of the format, from celebrated hit makers to crossover innovators, with several fresh faces added to the mix:

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR: Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley, George Strait, Sugarland and Keith Urban

FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: Alison Krauss, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood

MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, George Strait and Keith Urban

NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Jason Aldean, Rodney Atkins, Lady Antebellum, James Otto and Kellie Pickler

VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR: Eagles, Emerson Drive, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town and Rascal Flatts

VOCAL DUO OF THE YEAR: Big & Rich, Brooks & Dunn, Montgomery Gentry, Sugarland and The Wreckers

SINGLE OF THE YEAR: (Award goes to Artist and Producer)
"Don't Blink" (Kenny Chesney) produced by Buddy Cannon and Kenny Chesney/BNA Records
"Gunpowder & Lead" (Miranda Lambert) produced by Frank Liddell and Mike Wrucke/Columbia Records
"I Saw God Today" (George Strait) produced by Tony Brown and George Strait/MCA Nashville
"Stay" (Sugarland) produced by Byron Gallimore, Kristian Bush and Jennifer Nettles/Mercury Nashville
 "You're Gonna Miss This" (Trace Adkins) produced by Frank Rogers/Capitol Records Nashville

ALBUM OF THE YEAR: (Award goes to Artist and Producer)
"Carnival Ride" (Carrie Underwood) produced by Mark Bright/19 Records Limited/Arista Nashville
"Cowboy Town" (Brooks & Dunn) produced by Tony Brown, Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks/Arista Nashville
"Good Time" (Alan Jackson) produced by Keith Stegall/Arista Nashville
"Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates" (Kenny Chesney) produced by Buddy Cannon and Kenny Chesney/BNA Records
"Troubadour" (George Strait) produced by Tony Brown and George Strait/MCA Nashville

SONG OF THE YEAR: (Award goes to Songwriter and Primary Publisher)
"Good Time" (Alan Jackson) EMI-April Music/Tri-Angels Music
"I Saw God Today" (Rodney Clawson/Monty Criswell/Wade Kirby) Big Red Toe/Extremely Loud Music/Steel Wheels Music/Blind Mule Music
"Letter To Me" (Brad Paisley) EMI-April Music/New Sea Gayle Music
"Stay" (Jennifer Nettles) Jennifer Nettles Publishing
"You're Gonna Miss This" (Ashley Gorley/Lee Thomas Miller) EMI Blackwood Music/New Songs of Sea Gayle/Noah's Little Boat Music/Songs of Combustion Music

MUSICAL EVENT OF THE YEAR: (Award to each Artist)
Josh Turner featuring Trisha Yearwood "Another Try" MCA Nashville
Reba McEntire and Kenny Chesney "Every Other Weekend" MCA Nashville
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss "Gone, Gone, Gone" Rounder Records
Sugarland featuring Little Big Town and Jake Owen "Life in a Northern Town" Mercury Nashville
Kenny Chesney (duet with George Strait) "Shiftwork" BNA Records

MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR: (Award goes to Artist and Director)
"Don't Blink" (Kenny Chesney) directed by Shaun Silva
"Good Time" (Alan Jackson) directed by Trey Fanjoy
"Stay" (Sugarland) directed by Shaun Silva
"Waitin' on a Woman" (Brad Paisley) directed by Jim Shea
"You're Gonna Miss This" (Trace Adkins) directed by Peter Zavadil

MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR: Jerry Douglas (Dobro), Paul Franklin (Steel Guitar), Dann Huff (Guitar), Brent Mason (Guitar) and Mac McAnally (Guitar).

The 2007 CMA Awards, held in Nashville during November Sweeps (Nov. 7), ranked behind only the Academy Awards and Grammy Awards during the 2007-2008 season for awards shows among Total Viewers. With "The 41st Annual CMA Awards," ABC won Monday evening in both Total Viewers (16 million) and adults 18-49 (5.4/13). According to Nielsen, research estimates that 34.6 million viewers watched all or part of the ceremony.

The CMA Awards nominees and winners are determined by the 6,000 industry professional members of CMA, which was the first trade organization formed to promote an individual genre of music in 1958.

The first "CMA Awards Banquet and Show" was held in 1967. The following year, the CMA Awards was broadcast on NBC Television for the first time - making it the longest running, annual music awards program on network television. The show aired on NBC through 1971, and on the CBS Television Network from 1972 through 2005.

Winners of "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" will be determined in a final round of voting by eligible voting members of the Country Music Association. CMA Awards balloting is officiated by the international accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche LLP.

 

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ABC'S CHARLES GIBSON TO INTERVIEW GOVERNOR SARAH PALIN

New York, N.Y., - September 9th, 2008.            Exclusive Interviews to Air Across ABC News' Broadcasts and Platforms beginning on Thursday's "World News" In her first interview since being tapped as John McCain's running mate, Governor Sarah Palin will sit down with ABC News' Charles Gibson on Thursday, September 11 and Friday, September 12. Gibson's exclusive interviews with the Republican Vice Presidential candidate will take place in Fairbanks and Wasilla, Alaska.

The first excerpts will air on Thursday's "World News with Charles Gibson" and "Nightline," followed by "Good Morning America," "World News," "20/20" and "Nightline" on Friday. Additional portions will air across ABC News' platforms, including ABC News Radio, ABC News NOW, ABCNEWS.com and ABC NewsOne beginning Thursday.

 

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"TELEVISION'S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS" NOW NARROWED FOR VOTING -- TOP 10 COMEDIC + TOP 10 DRAMATIC - WITH FINAL WINNERS ANNOUNCED DURING EMMY AWARDS SEPTEMBER 21 ON ABC

New York, N.Y., - September 10th, 2008.            Voting Ends on September 15 at emmys.abc.com With more than 100,000 votes posted already, television fans have selected their Top 10 Comedic and Top 10 Dramatic moments in the Television Academy's first ever public vote to determine America's number one moment in each category. The voting continues at emmys.abc.com through September 15, and the results will be announced in a special segment on this year's "60th Primetime Emmy® Awards" airing live on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT) on ABC

From the original list of 40 moments as selected by representatives from the Academy, the media and the production company, the list now includes many of television's highest rated moments, as well as some of its most emotional, funny and dramatic scenes.

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 have been able to narrow 40 of "Television's Most Memorable Moments" down to 20, and finally to viewers' favorite comedic and dramatic moment. The original 40 clips to vote on 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.

"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 Primetime Emmy Awards."

Clips from the following series have become the Top 20 finalists. To help determine the all-time favorite comedy and drama moments, go to emmys.abc.com:

COMEDY/VARIETY MOMENTS

"ALL IN THE FAMILY"
"ELLEN"
"FRIENDS"
"I LOVE LUCY"
"M*A*S*H"
"NEWHART"
"SEINFELD"
"SOUTH PARK"
"THE CAROL BURNETT SHOW"
"THE COSBY SHOW"


DRAMATIC MOMENTS

"BRIAN'S SONG"
"BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER"
"DALLAS"
"ER"
"GREY'S ANATOMY"
"LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE"
"LOST"
"ROOTS"
"STAR TREK"
"THE X-FILES"

 

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CBS SPORTS TO STREAM ENTIRE 2008 SEC FOOTBALL SCHEDULE LIVE ON CBS SPORTS.COM

New York, N.Y., - September 10th, 2008.            CBS Sports will stream its entire 2008 SEC college football schedule live on CBSSports.com. The SEC ON CBS kicks off on Saturday, Sept 13 (3:30-7:00 PM, ET) with *No. 2-ranked Georgia at *South Carolina.

"In keeping with CBS's vision of using multiple platforms to better serve our viewers no matter where they are, we are pleased with the cooperation of the SEC to be able to stream all of our SEC ON CBS games this season," said Mike Aresco, Executive Vice President, Programming, CBS Sports.

"We're excited to give fans the ability to watch live college football for free on CBSSports.com from one of the most competitive conferences in the country," said Jason Kint, Senior Vice President and General Manager, CBSSports.com. "As we've already seen with the huge success of March Madness on Demand, one of our main goals is to give fans without access to a TV the ability to view as many of the first-class productions of CBS Sports as possible, either on the Internet or via wireless devices, allowing them to enjoy the thrill of live sporting events."

"The Southeastern Conference is pleased that CBS will be able to stream our games live on the internet this season," said SEC Commissioner Mike Slive.  "We look forward to using this technology, giving our fans the ability to view CBS Sports' telecasts live on the internet."

A total of 17 SEC contests will be streamed live and free of charge on CBSSports.com  concluding with the SEC Championship Game featuring the Eastern and Western Division champions on Saturday, Dec. 6 (4:00 PM, ET). The games are available exclusively on CBSSports.com and can also be accessed through a link on the websites of all CBS affiliates. 

In August, CBS Sports and the SEC reached an historic 15-year contract extension with the Southeastern Conference to broadcast its football and basketball games beginning with the 2009-10 season. In addition to broadcast rights, the new deal includes digital, internet, wireless, video-on-demand and enhanced highlight rights across all CBS Sports properties.

 

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SEEN AT THE CBS SCENE... STARS FROM THE WORLDS OF ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS GATHERED TO CELEBRATE THE GRAND OPENING OF THE CBS SCENE RESTAURANT & BAR, SATURDAY, SEPT. 6, IN FOXBOROUGH, MASS.

Foxborough, Mass., - September 9th, 2008.            CBS and the Kraft Group hosted a grand opening extravaganza on Saturday (Sept. 6) to celebrate the CBS Scene Restaurant & Bar, a new one-of-a-kind entertainment and dining destination in Foxborough, Mass., adjacent to the New England Patriots' Gillette stadium.  Among the nearly 600 guests were star New England Patriots players, their renowned head coach, professional football Hall of Famers, CBS Entertainment stars and CBS's THE NFL TODAY and NFL ON CBS Talent. 

 

Uninvited guest Tropical Storm Hanna arrived during the party but failed to dampen anyone's spirits as they enjoyed the gourmet cuisine, the breathtaking views of the stadium, the 3,200 square feet of iconic CBS photography and the engaging array of over 135 High Definition screens showcasing current and classic CBS programming.  

From the third/top level of the restaurant's 60-foot spiral staircase, designed in the shape of CBS's trademark eye, Leslie Moonves, President and CEO of the CBS Corporation, Robert Kraft, Chairman and CEO of The Kraft Group, and Jonathan Kraft, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Kraft Group, officially opened the restaurant with a ceremonial click of three gigantic remote controls that turned on a bevy of projection screens in their midst.  During this ceremony, Moonves and the Krafts were backed by the New England Patriots' Tom Brady, Tedy Bruschi, Rodney Harrison, Larry Izzo, Matt Light, Randy Moss, Richard Seymour, Mike Vrabel, Vince Wilfork, Professional Football Hall of Famers John Hannah and Andre Tippett, and CBS's James Brown (THE NFL TODAY), Julie Chen ("The Early Show," "Big Brother 10"), Bill Cowher (THE NFL TODAY), Dan Dierdorf (NFL ON CBS), Boomer Esiason (THE NFL TODAY), Greg Gumbel (NFL ON CBS), Neil Patrick Harris ("How I Met Your Mother"), Dan Marino (THE NFL TODAY), Jeff Probst ("Survivor: Gabon"), Emily Procter ("CSI: Miami") and Shannon Sharpe (THE NFL TODAY).

 

The party guests dined on the passed and buffet-style samplings of the seafood, steaks, entrée salads, pizzas and desserts from the American cuisine menu of CBS Scene Executive Chef Brian Corbley.  

 

The NFL ON CBS and THE NFL TODAY talent enjoyed the event while preparing their game faces the night before they kicked off the 2008 NFL ON CBS Broadcast season.  Belichick and the Patriots players briefly surveyed the CBS Scene festivities on the eve of their 17-10 opening day win over the Kansas City Chiefs, which Neil Patrick Harris, Jeff Probst and Emily Procter witnessed in-person from the stadium. 

Located adjacent to the New England Patriots' Gillette Stadium in the 1.3 million square foot Patriot Place lifestyle destination, the CBS Scene's spectacular views, upscale casual dining, and state-of-the-art technology ?? including over 135 SONY Plasma, LCD and graphic projector displays showcasing current and classic content from across the CBS Corporation ?? converge to create the next generation in media and entertainment.

 

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'THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO' LISTINGS

Thursday, September 11 – Guests include Jamie Lee Curtis and musical guest Alejandro Escovedo

Friday, September 12 – Guests include Hugh Laurie, Dame Edna and musical guest Raphael Saadiq

Monday, September 15 – Guests include Kate Hudson, Michael C. Hall

Tuesday, September 16 – Guests include Shia LaBouf and musical guest Nelly

Wednesday, September 17 – Guests include Kristen Bell and musical guest George Clinton and the Gangsters of Love All-Stars

 

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UPCOMING GUESTS ON THE "LATE SHOW with DAVID LETTERMAN" ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

Thursday, Sept. 11                               Singer/musical guest Jessica Simpson; animal expert Jack Hanna 

Friday, Sept. 12                                   Actress Meg Ryan; actor Ricky Gervais

 

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LISTINGS FOR "LATE NIGHT WITH CONAN O'BRIEN"

Thursday, September 11 – Show 2635 – Guests include Serena Williams, Amy Sedaris, musical guest Meiko

Friday, September 12 – Show 2636 – Guests include Eva Mendes and musical guest The Fab Faux

Monday, September 15 – Show 2637 – Guests include Samuel L. Jackson, Ricky Gervais, and musical guest Marc Broussard

Tuesday, September 16 – Show 2638 – Guests include Martha Stewart, Harland Williams, and musical guest Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson

Wednesday, September 17 – Show 2639 – Guests include Ray Liotta and Loudon Wainwright III

Thursday, September 18 – Show 2640 - Guests include Willie Nelson and musical guest Southside Johnny with La Bamba's Big Band

Friday, September 19 – Show 2641 – Guests include Ice-T (NBC's "Law and Order: Special Victims Unit"), Dwayne Wade, and Shane Mauss

Monday, September 22 – Show 2642 – Guests include Diane Lane and Patton Oswalt

Tuesday, September 23 – Show 2643 – Guests include Billy Bob Thorton

Wednesday, September 24 – Show 2644 – Guests include Jamie Pressly (NBC's "My Name Is Earl"), Little Britain, and musical guest Lenka

Thursday, September 25 – Show 2645 – Guests include Julianne Moore, Zachary Levi (NBC's "Chuck"), and musical guest Jakob Dylan

Friday, September 26 – Show 2646 – Guest include Brooke Shields (NBC's "Lipstick Jungle"), and musical guest Amos Lee

 

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UPCOMING GUESTS ON "THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON" ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

Thursday, Sept. 11               Craig Ferguson's sister, Lynn Ferguson; author Lance Morrow

Friday, Sept. 12                       Actor Seann William Scott; actress Lena Heady

Monday, Sept. 15                    Actor Jason Biggs; music by Lady Antebellum

Tuesday, Sept. 16                Model Paulina Porizkova; writer Ken Tucker; music by Tally Hall  

Wednesday, Sept. 17           Actor Alan Alda; actress Illeana Douglas

 

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QUOTABLES FROM NBC'S 'LATE NIGHT WITH CONAN O'BRIEN'

SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 5

"The Republican Convention is underway. The theme for tonight's Republican Convention is 'Who is John McCain?' Tomorrow night's theme is, 'Who forgot to check if the Vice President's daughter is pregnant?'"

"It's true, John McCain's running mate, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, has revealed that her 17-year-old daughter is pregnant. Palin said, 'We should never have introduced her to John Edwards.'"

"Earlier tonight, President Bush appeared at the Republican Convention live via satellite. Or as Bush calls it, 'live via magic.'"

"This year there are only 36 black delegates at the Republican Convention in Minnesota. As a result, there are now 37 black people in Minnesota."

"Yesterday, the New Kids on the Block cancelled their outdoor concert on the 'Today' show because Hurricane Gustav struck Louisiana. Victims of the hurricane are describing it as 'totally worth it.'"

"Yesterday in Connecticut, a man was shot in the leg outside of a Dunkin' Donuts. Ironically, police say getting shot outside a Dunkin' Donuts is still a lot healthier than going inside."

"Angelina Jolie reportedly told police she's worried that her children will be kidnapped. However, the police told Jolie not to worry because no one has a car that big."

"The other day in Ohio, a man set a new record by eating 11 and a half pounds of chili in 10 minutes. And then he died."

"Paris Hilton is reportedly dating Chris Dewolfe, the CEO of MySpace. MySpace has over 106 million users, as does Paris Hilton."

"Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin says she is opposed to same sex marriage. Palin says, 'Everyone knows marriage isn't for gay people it's for pregnant teenagers.'"

"Speaking of Sarah Palin she says that she is a lifelong member of the National Rifle Association. Which may explain why she's in favor of shotgun weddings."

"This week John McCain was endorsed by the gay group known as the Log Cabin Republicans. They endorsed McCain not because he supports gay rights, but because he was actually born in a log cabin."

"Last night, President Bush addressed the crowd at the Republican Convention via satellite. The first 10 minutes of Bush's speech consisted of him saying, 'Wait a minute, how can you see me when I can't see you?'"

"'Harry Potter' star Daniel Radcliffe said that at some point he'd love to have a role where he gets to play a drag queen. Which may explain his new project: 'Harry Potter and the Fabulous Shoes I Saw First, Bitch.'"

"According to a new study, men who have heated seats in their cars may be reducing the amount of sperm their testicles produce. Of course guys who drive a Hyundai shouldn't worry because nobody wants your sperm anyway."

"In a recent interview Brad Pitt says that his new baby daughter Vivienne takes after her mother Angelina Jolie. Pitt said, 'For instance Vivienne has already adopted 6 orphans.'"

"A company called Libida has come out with a solar-powered vibrator. That's right ladies - it's time to harness the awesome masturbation power of the sun!"

"Last night Sarah Palin introduced herself to the country at the Republican Convention. During her speech last night, Sarah Palin spoke proudly about being a hockey mom. It's unknown what positions her kids play, but one of them isn't very good at protecting the crease."

"Sarah Palin's husband was at the convention last night and at one point she said that her husband's parents were Eskimos. Then tonight during John McCain's speech he admitted that his parents were Vikings."

"Today it was reported that the speech Sarah Palin delivered at the convention was written by President Bush's speechwriter. Which explains the title of the speech: 'I Like Trucks!'"

"While addressing the crowd, Sarah Palin criticized Barack Obama's campaign speeches for not having enough specifics. Obama was reportedly angry about the claim but didn't say exactly why."

"Apple Computer is getting complaints from some of its overweight customers because they claim their fingers are too fat to properly operate the new iPhone. However, they say the iPhone is delicious."

"Today the mayor of Detroit agreed to plead guilty to obstruction of justice charges. As punishment, he will be required to serve out his full term as mayor of Detroit."

"The other day a warehouse worker won a contest that gave him the chance to play a game of H-O-R-S-E with basketball superstar LeBron James and the guy beat LeBron twice in a row. LeBron congratulated the worker, then bought the warehouse and had it destroyed."

"David Spade and his girlfriend announced that they've had a baby girl. Spade said he can't wait to hear the pitter-patter of someone else's little feet."

"A company called Libida has come out with a solar-powered vibrator. Finally, an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional gas-guzzling vibrators."

"Last night John McCain delivered his big speech at the Republican Convention. John McCain used the word 'change' over 10 times during his acceptance speech. Although, nine of those times it was in the sentence 'could somebody, please change me.'"

"Alaska Governor Sarah Palin is out on the campaign trail and today she attended a rally in Wisconsin. The Alaska governor said she was thrilled to visit Wisconsin because she's never been to the Deep South."

"Oprah Winfrey is in the middle of a scandal today because she is refusing to have Republican VP candidate Sarah Palin on her show. The friction started because Palin said if she was elected she'd be the most powerful woman in the country and Oprah said, 'The hell you will.'"

"During John McCain's speech last night, an anti-Republican heckler began yelling at him. Officials removed the man and immediately gave him a job at MSNBC."

"John Edwards announced that in order not to be a distraction he is canceling all public appearances until the election is over. However, Edwards said he will continue to make all of his private appearances."

"The Department of Homeland Security announced that they are teaming up with the website MySpace to spread breaking news about hurricanes. According to the MySpace report, Hurricane Gustav looked cute yesterday – but Hannah has been acting like a total skank."

"In Connecticut, a man was shot in the leg at a Dunkin' Donuts. Fortunately, just before, he died of a heart attack."

"This week Amy Winehouse will be appearing at a music festival and she's demanding that her dressing room be supplied with 50 bottles of Jack Daniels. So the good news is, she's cutting back."

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From the home office in Wahoo, Nebraska... THE "LATE SHOW" TOP TWELVE "Perks of Being a NASCAR Driver"

12.       Matt Kenseth:  Crazy gas prices?  I don't care...I'm not payin'.

11.       Kevin Harvick:  Bring your helmet to Taco Bell and they'll fill it up with guacamole, free.

10.       Jeff Gordon:  Don't have to shave your body like Olympic swimmers.  Although, why not?

9.         Greg Biffle:   Hasselhoff promised me one of those talking cars.

8.         Tony Stewart:  I use old checkered flags to make fabulous throw pillows.

7.         Jeff Burton:  There's nothing like going through a car wash at 190 miles per hour.

6.         Denny Hamlin:  GPS underpants.

5.         Clint Bowyer:  Sorry, I forgot my joke - I was thinking about Jessica Alba - man she's hot.

4.         Dale Earnhardt, Jr.:  Run out of olive oil?  A little Quaker State will spruce up any salad.

3.         Jimmie Johnson:  Traveling to exotic locations like Martinsville, Virginia and Dover, Delaware.

2.         Carl Edwards:  At high school reunions, it's fun to ask, "So what do you do for a living?"

1.         Kyle Busch:  After a race, your ass vibrates for days.

 

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From the home office in Wahoo, Nebraska... THE "LATE SHOW" TOP TEN "Signs You're Talking to a Fake Kim Jong-Il"

10.       Doesn't smile when you mention torturing dissidents.

9.         He's 6'5", 250 pounds.

8.         Introduces himself by saying, "Hi, I'm Gary - uh, crap, I mean Kim Jong-Il."

7.         He seems Kimmy and Jongy, but not quite Illy.

6.         Your wife recognizes him as the Kim Jong-Il look-alike who stripped at her bachelorette party.

5.         Keeps using the phrase, "Chillax, bro."

4.         He pays for drinks - honestly, folks, when's the last time that man picked up a check?

3.         He won't shut up about the new "90210."

2.         He's only half insane.

1.         Keeps referring to himself as "just a hockey mom."

 

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