Friday, November 30, 2007

Gina Gallego has four movie projects for 2008

Gina Gallego, who took over the role of Santana Andrade from Margaret Michaels on "Santa Barbara," hasn't exactly been a stranger over the years. She's popped up here, and she's popped up there. And next year, she'll be popping up on a bunch of stuff ...

"South of the Border," now filming, gives her a small part as a shelter director. The film's got an excellent cast: Drew Barrymore, Salma Hayek, Jamie Lee Curtis, Andy Garcia, Edward James Olmos, George Lopez, Cheech Marin. The comedy is about a lost chihuahua and is due in theaters next August.

In "Periphery," Gallego plays Carmelita. The drama is written and directed by Duane Allen Humeyestewa.

"Winged Creatures" has her playing a waitress. This one is about a group of people who form relationships with each other after a shooting at a diner. Kate Beckinsale and Dakota Fanning are also in it.

In the horror flick "Pearblossom," it's not clear what Gallego's character is, but the movie itself is about a lesbian couple who encounter God in 1968 and are reborn 40 years later. The movie stars one-half of the babysitting twins from "Grindhouse." (Read more about that at Bloody-Disgusting.com.)

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Helmut Berger dons an "Iron Cross"

Helmut Berger was the intriguing and arguably distasteful Peter De Vilbis on our beloved "Dynasty," he of the charm and accent who whisked away our precious Fallon Carrington and helped break poor Jeff Colby's heart. And though you may not be able to translate this Austrian-born actor's resume, he's been a busy boy over the years. He's had many projects dating back to the 1960s.

On his plate this year is "Iron Cross," a war thriller written and directed by Joshua James Newton. The plotline from the IMDb: "Joseph, 78, a holocaust survivor settled in New York, who witnessed the massacre of his family in Poland 1941, travels to Berlin to visit his son Ronnie having turned his back on him for the last five years for marrying Anna. No sooner does Joseph attempt to heal the rift with Ronnie, he swears that living in the apartment below under the false name of Shrager is the now-aging SS commander who committed the atrocity. With little hope of seeing him stand trial, Joseph talks Ronnie into exacting justice -- and vengeance -- and together they set out to kill him."

Roy Scheider plays Joseph. Though Berger's character is not named on the page, we have to wonder if it's Shrager (wouldn't that be fun -- anyone?). The movie has been filming in Poland this year by Calibra Pictures.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

A "Dukes" museum update

There it is ... like a beacon shining in the distance ... the "Dukes of Hazzard" museum being built by Mr. Paul Harrington of the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club. We've been posting photos now and then, to update you on the progress of the museum, and these photos are the latest.


"We have been kind of busy with the east wall," Paul said, "trying to get it all covered before it gets too cold. Well, here it is so far, now it's 40 outside. Last week it was 93; wow, what a difference."

And that was last month. There's a reason they call it the Great White North, ya know ... (of course, maybe now it'll be the Great Orange North!)

Photos courtesy of Paul Harrington

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Another "high school musical" comes to Riverdale

From Archie Comics

MAMARONECK , NY -- In early 2006, a new phenomenon was born. A TV movie was aired that captured the hearts of the nation’s youth. A modern retelling of “Romeo & Juliet” set in a high school to a thumping backbeat of catchy teen-pop, it aired to amazing ratings in the U.S. and Europe. It was so popular that many repeat airings followed. Inevitably, it spawned a hit soundtrack CD and spinoffs, as well as DVD releases and a live stage show. A sequel movie is completed and about to air, with a third installment already in the works.

With a history of reflecting the current fads and fashions, it’s only natural that Archie Comics would take a stab at gently spoofing and paying tribute to this popular series, and this November that’s exactly what happens in “Riverdale High – the Musical,” appearing in VERONICA #185.

When a former Riverdale High student-turned-famous screenwriter/director decides to make a movie about her teenage years, it’s enough to make Veronica, Betty and their friends break out in song! Of course, using the current high school class as inspiration, there’s more drama behind the cameras than in front of it! Don’t miss this hilarious spoof of the beloved musical high school films that have swept the nation.

VERONICA #185
“Riverdale High – the Musical!”: When a former Riverdale High student-turned-famous screenwriter/director decides to make a movie about her teenage years, it’s enough to make Veronica, Betty and their friends break out in song! Of course, using the current high school class as inspiration, there’s more drama behind the cameras than in front of it! Don’t miss this hilarious spoof of the beloved musical high school films that have captured the hearts of the nation. SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
On sale on newsstands: December 4, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

Monday, November 26, 2007

Frank Runyeon, wish we could have been there!

We reported on the BRBTV News Blog a week or two ago on how Frank Runyeon was out and about, speaking in Illinois on the topic of Hollywood and faith. Runyeon was still in the Midwest this past weekend, now setting about a more Christmasy theme: He performed his show "The 3 1/2 Stories of Christmas" in Gibsonburg, Ohio.

The show, a Christmas story told from the angel's point of view, was brought to the stage this past Sunday, and it was a free performance! (A freewill offering was taken, though -- and believe you-me, we woulda gladly paid the church's December heating bill to see this guy in action!)

(So is it appropriate to us "Santa Barbara" fans that the name of the church was St. Michael's?)

The Princeton grad, who's been performing these dramas in the decade he's been off the Hollywood radar, was also doing shows in New York and Michigan (a major ouch! for this former Detroiter now in the South ... how 'bout Hot-lanta, Mr. Runyeon?).

You can read more about it (and see a nice photo) in the Port Clinton News Herald:
http://www.portclintonnewsherald.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071123/NEWS01/711230316/1002

Friday, November 23, 2007

Fame brings the crazies out of the woodwork, John Schneider can attest

Well, didya all have a great Thanksgiving? Watch any parade? Overeat? All the traditional stuff?

Early this week, we reported on a BBC show that was to include a reunion of our "Dukes of Hazzard" Big Three. The BBC site reports on that show:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/pressreleases/stories/2007/11_november/22/norton.shtml

John Schneider, for instance, has a bit of crazy stuff to say about love and romance as the icon Bo Duke. "There are some fans who have claimed to have my child," he said. "When we started I lied about my age (I said 24) and this woman sued me as the father of her child. I thought 'my God' – because I knew her! – but her son was 12, so that would have been impossible."

Schneider related another case of mistaken identity with a fan. We'll let you read that one yourself.

Ahhhhh ... the perils of fame ... have a great weekend, and shop to your heart's content ...

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Lane Davies to star in new cable TV show

Lane Davies, our own original Mason Capwell of "Santa Barbara," is set to star in the pilot of "Dixie Melodie," a new half-hour comedy TV project for cable.

Produced by Los Angeles-based Sheer Audacity Productions, "Dixie Melodie" will be entirely shot and produced in New Orleans. "We want to show New Orleans in a new, exciting and positive light, through the eyes of our lead character, Melodie," says B.J. Grogan, one of the show's writers.

As the character Frederick Charleston, the Georgia boy Davies will work with cast and crew from New Orleans. Shooting is scheduled to begin in early 2008 in New Orleans.

You can read more about the show at Top40-charts.com, and check out the show's official website at http://www.sheeraudacity.com/dixiemelodie.html.

Spotted: The now-seasoned Ray Abruzzo, our own Sgt. John Zorelli of the latter years of "Dynasty," playing a lobbyist who was the target of a serial cannibal on Fox's "Bones" last night. Though his hair has receded a bit, he's still that hottie who once chased Fallon Carrington!

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Those artistically inclined, Archie Comics wants to post your Christmas card

From Archie Comics

MAMARONECK , NY – Send in your own Christmas or holiday cards, and your artwork might get featured on ArchieComics.com! If your art is chosen, people around the world may be sending your greeting card, and they will see the following:
"This card created by (your name here)"

To participate, send your art by email attachment to blogfanart@archiecomics.com. Be sure to put "CARD" in the subject area of your email. Also, make sure at least one of the Archie Comics gang is featured in your card!

If you would rather use one of the cards already on the site, go to www.archiecomics.com/sendcard/holiday.php

In other Archie news ...

Victor Gorelick has been named Archie Comics’ new editor-in-chief, with Mike Pellerito being promoted to managing editor.

Gorelick is a very familiar name for any reader of the Archies. In the late '50s, as a graduate from the School of Industrial Art, he was hired to work in the production department at Archie Comics. In a few years, he moved on to become the art director and later an editor.

By the mid-'80s, Gorelick had been promoted to managing editor, where, the official press release from Archie Comics says, "he has strived to keep Archie current and relevant to each new generation of readers."

Gorelick serves on the board of advisors to the Joe Kubert School of Cartooning and is always looking for new talent. He hired Kubert School graduate Mike Pellerito to work in the production department. Pellerito moved on to become an associate editor, where he soon became the editor for Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic X and Sabrina the Teenage Witch. "His hard work and dedication to his job is the reason why the decision was made to promote Mike Pellerito to the position of managing editor," Archie says.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Special thanks to Izzy, who on behalf of TV Land, sent BRBTV this little addendum to our post last week on the 100 greatest TV icons of all time. Check out http://50icons.blogspot.com/ for more on our beloved Oprah and other icons!

Monday, November 19, 2007

"Dukes" fans in the U.K.? It could happen!

In fact, we've showcased a couple of 'em in our "See My Lee" feature. Now, the Graham Norton Show on BBC2 in the U.K. is filming a "Dukes of Hazzard" special next week. The show will star Tom Wopat (Luke Duke), John Schneider (Bo Duke) and Catherine Bach (Daisy Duke).

"We are interested in hearing from all fans of 'The Dukes' from all over the world," their official memo says, passed along to members and friends of the Confederate General Lee Fan Club. "Do you have any 'Dukes of Hazzard' stories or experiences that you would like to share? Or do you have any 'Dukes' dreams or ambitions that you would like to fulfill?"

The production team of the show asks fans to get in touch as soon as possible, with a contact telephone number.

"We are recording the show on Wednesday this week, so time is of the essense," the team says. "We have audience tickets to give away for all 'Dukes' fans in the U.K., and of course any fans abroad if they want to travel to London."

Email them at alant@sotelevision.co.uk

Elsewhere in the "Dukes" world, meanwhile, Scott Romine of the Confederate club reminds fans of the brand-new website set up for the 2008 DukesFest scheduled for Atlanta, hosted by John and Elly Schneider. Scott also invites you to "friend" the MySpace page: www.myspace.com/dukesfest2008

"Information regarding car owner registration, parking, camping, etc., will be available on the website soon -- and many things will be put in place right after the first of the year," Scott says.

Friday, November 16, 2007

Paul Dini gets a new gig in comics-oriented social network

Our guy Paul Dini of "Batman: The Animated Series" fame is in the news for taking a new post at Zeros 2 Heroes, an online comics and genre entertainment social network. He'll serve on the board and has been named editor-in-chief for the network for aspiring comics creators.

"The Zeros 2 Heroes' Comic Creation Nation is an exciting initiative that harnesses the power of the web to identify the next generation of storytellers," Dini says in a news release on PRWeb.com. "There are no gatekeepers here: This is a major opportunity for undiscovered creators to make their mark, and I couldn't be more thrilled to be behind this incredibly rewarding campaign."

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Tracy Scoggins, a BRBTV triple-shot as Monica Colby of "Dynasty" and "The Colbys," Anita Smithfield in the "Dallas" movies and the beautiful blonde cop on "The Dukes of Hazzard," has a new gig herself. She's currently filming the movie "Otis," where she'll play Rita Vitale. The flick also stars Illeana Douglas and Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs of "Welcome Back, Kotter" fame.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

OK, what's Hagman doing at No. 50?

What a beautiful list it is, TV Land's compilation of the top 100 TV icons of all time. But stuffing Larry Hagman down at No. 50? Yikes! We'd say J.R. Ewing and Tony Nelson rate higher than that! Anyhow, it's a lovely list, just the same. From the BRBTV perspective, there was decent representation ...

80. Adam West (Simon Trent of "Batman: The Animated Series")
69. Barbara Eden (LeeAnn De La Vega of "Dallas")
63. Ed Asner (Roland Daggett of "Batman: TAS")
50. Larry Hagman (J.R. Ewing of "Dallas")
44. Susan Lucci (Sheila Foley / Hillary Taylor of "Dallas")
36. Diahann Carroll (Dominique Deveraux of "Dynasty")
25. Heather Locklear (Sammy Jo Reece of "Dynasty" and Lisa of "Batman: TAS")

Many congrats to that doll Oprah, who rated No. 3, and BRBTV was delighted to see Dick Van Dyke at No. 12 (we simply adore his "Diagnosis Murder"). You can see the whole list at TV Land's site.

TV Land airs the celebration of the top 100 TV icons tomorrow night. Tune in at 8 p.m. EST.

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

The holiday sweaters don't match up for poor Archie this season ...

Coming up in Archie Comics in the next few weeks ...

ARCHIE #580
"A Not-So-Cool Yule": Archie is having a stress-free holiday season, until both Betty and Veronica give him "matching sweaters" that they expect him to wear. The only problem is, the designs the girls chose don’t match! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg. "Cold Comfort": Veronica thinks Archie is being chivalrous about her onion breath, when he merely has a cold! SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Stan Goldberg. "The Fix is In": When Mr. Lodge and Smithers see Archie with a tool kit, an unspeakable horror grips them – is hapless Archie somewhere in the mansion, trying to fix something? SCRIPT: Craig Boldman. ART: Stan Goldberg. "You Never Listen": Veronica laments that Archie never listens, but since he’s not paying attention anyway, are her protests all for naught? SCRIPT: Greg Crosby. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale on newsstands: December 11, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #114
FEATURING THE RETURN OF MONEY-SNIFFING CRICKET O’DELL!
"Fortune Telling": Cricket O’Dell, the girl with the nose for money, is back. A mere sniff and Cricket can tell you exactly how much cash is in your wallet. But this time, the same weakness that impacts her ability – an allergy to nuts – gives her a new power – the powers to see how much a person will have in the future! At first everyone is fascinated as Cricket reveals future prosperity for Riverdale’s most financially challenged, but fascination turns to paranoia when Cricket reveals who will end up penniless! Is credence in Cricket’s predictions "on the money," or simply a "bad investment?" SCRIPT: Craig Boldman. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale on newsstands: November 27, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #184
"The Fame Game": Jay, the ‘70s rocker next door, visits an Archies practice showdown and fills them in on all the "wonderful" things they can expect from fame… but wonderful is in the eye of the beholder! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Jeff Shultz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups.
On sale on newsstands: December 11, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

BETTY #170
"A Case of Stressmas": Betty decides to relieve Archie’s math stress by giving him the gift of tutoring, but wait until you see the gift she gives to relieve Veronica’s stress! SCRIPT: Barbara Slate. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"The Collector": When Archie and Adam learn Betty likes collecting penguin figures, no flea market or antique store can restock them fast enough! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Miracle Work": When klutzy Archie helps the Coopers decorate their Christmas tree, is it doomsday for the ornaments, or the eve of a Christmas miracle? SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Second-Hand Girl": When Veronica jets off to Paris, Betty ponders whether it’s worth being Archie’s "second choice" as date for the Winter Wonderland dance. SCRIPT: Barbara Slate. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale on newsstands: December 18, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #156
"Holiday on the High Seas": A holiday cruise with her parents is anything but smooth sailing for Veronica, who can’t stand to be away from her friends during the holidays. But when the band booked to provide the cruise’s entertainment cancels at the last minute, guess who steps in to fill their shoes? Now the only rough seas are reserved for Mr. Lodge! SCRIPT: Bill Golliher ART: Jeff Shultz. Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups.
On sale on newsstands: November 27, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

JUGHEAD & FRIENDS DIGEST #25
"The Secret of Jughead’s Hat!": Move over, Davey Crockett – when Jughead loses his trademark crown, he replaces it with a coonskin cap! There’s simply no substitute for his ol’ reliable headwear, however. Luckily, that’s when Wendy Weatherbee reveals another hidden talent! Can she help Jughead get his head… er, hat… back on straight? SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups.
On sale on newsstands: December 18, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

PALS-N-GALS DOUBLE DIGEST #117
"The Winner": Insisting he’s turned over a new ego-free leaf, Reggie invites Archie and Veronica over to show them he’s gotten rid of all his trophies… but all he’s really done is recycled them into coat racks, hot plates and the like! Is there any escape from Reggie-mania?! SCRIPT: Craig Boldman. ART: Fernando Ruiz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups.
On sale on newsstands: December 18, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

TALES FROM RIVERDALE DIGEST #25
"DENIM!": If you think this summer’s box office-busting arachnid hero had trouble with his new mood-altering threads, wait until you see what happens to Dilton! In this sequel to "Send in the Clones" from ARCHIE’S DOUBLE DIGEST #173, Dilton is lamenting his lack of luck with the ladies. With cell samples from Reggie and his synthoid-making machine working overtime, Dilton creates a new synthetic material that, unbeknownst to him, is actually alive! Not only does it lead to a new wardrobe for Dilton, but he also seems to have adopted Reggie’s penchant for arrogance and self-centeredness! Can Archie and his friends undo this malevolent makeover? SCRIPT: AND ART: Fernando Ruiz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents.
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: December 4, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

VERONICA #185
"Riverdale High – the Musical!": When a former Riverdale High student-turned-famous screenwriter/director decides to make a movie about her teenage years, it’s enough to make Veronica, Betty and their friends break out in song! Of course, using the current high school class as inspiration, there’s more drama behind the cameras than in front of it! Don’t miss this hilarious spoof of the beloved musical high school films that have captured the hearts of the nation. SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
On sale on newsstands: December 4, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.


B A C K L I S T :

DECK THE HALLS WITH YULETIDE CHEER, ARCHIE STYLE!
Don't miss these classic comics chock full of Christmas tales!

ARCHIE'S CHRISTMAS STOCKING #2 - 48 page, full color special, $2.00 US.
ARCHIE'S CHRISTMAS STOCKING #3 - 48 page, full color special, $2.00 US.
ARCHIE'S CHRISTMAS STOCKING #4 - 48 page, full color special, $2.00 US.
ARCHIE'S CHRISTMAS STOCKING #5 - 48 page, full color special, $2.25 US.
ARCHIE'S CHRISTMAS STOCKING #6 - 48 page, full color special, $2.25 US.
ARCHIE'S CHRISTMAS STOCKING #7 - 48 page, full color special, $2.29 US.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

A couple "Dallas" and "Dynasty" nuggets

"I'm a little bit DA-LLAS ... I'm a little bit DY-NASTY ..."

(Sorry, we were so enraptured by Oprah's Osmond family reunion on Friday, we've had Osmonds on the brain ...)

Whether you're a little bit "Dallas" or a little bit "Dynasty" or, like many of us, a lot of both, we've got something for you to enjoy today.

First up, amid rumors of a third "Dallas" reunion movie for TV, the Ultimate Dallas site has formulated a petition to ensure it happens:
http://ultimatedallas.com/phpPETITION/
(Can you believe Margaret Krebbs would be 20 years old right now? When we read the suggested plotline for the TV reunion, we did a double-take!)

Then, we've got just a yummy little tidbit for "Dynasty" ... a tribute, of sorts, in the catfight that singer Kylie Minogue had with her sister:
http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,22740212-5006009,00.html

Monday, November 12, 2007

Bits O' Web: The men of "SB" generate some ink

It was a heavy news weekend for the men of "Santa Barbara":

- Jack Wagner, our own final Warren Lockridge, was named No. 1 in Golf Digest's ranking of the top 100 Hollywood golfers. (And we could only be tickled pink that former "Charlie's Angel" Cheryl Ladd figured into the list at No. 68.)
http://www.tulsaworld.com/sports/article.aspx?articleID=071109_2_B2_spanc37307

- Frank Runyeon, who as Father Michael can now be seen on the Mason Chronicles at Lane Davies' official website, gave a presentation late last week at St. Stephen's Church in Streator, Illinois, titled "Hollywood vs. Faith: The struggle to live as a Christian in the age of media values."
http://mywebtimes.com/ottnews/archives/ottawa/display.php?id=347913

- John O'Hurley, our own Stephen Slade, has "gone to the dogs -- and is loving it." He again hosts the National Dog Show Presented by Purina, airing after Macy's Thanksgiving Parade.
http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20071110/ent/ent3.html

But that's not all in today's BRBTV Bits O' Web bag of tricks: He might not have spelled the name right, but we do appreciate nonetheless the reference to "The Dukes of Hazzard" and the unforgettable Boss "Hawg" by this letter writer in an Ontario publication:
http://www.yorkregion.com/Opinion/Letters%20to%20the%20Editor/article/60199

Friday, November 09, 2007

Hair Dare Dukes Weekend moves to Leamington Fairgrounds

Paul Harrington of the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club, who holds the annual Hair Dare Dukes Weekend benefit each year for the Canadian Cancer Society, has announced a new venue for next year's event:

"My wife Cheryl and I were able to convince the Leamington District Agricultural Society's president, secretary and the board of directors to let us hold our annual event on their grounds," Paul says. "WOW, this is the greatest news I could even think of. Now the event will be held right in the town of Leamington, Ontario, Canada. The Leamington Fair Grounds are located right on the main street of Leamington."

He adds, "This is the easiest place to have the event, as you can get there right from the 401, and head south on highway 77, right into town, as the grounds would be on the left side, right behind Applebee's, where many went to eat."

(Indeed, BRB enjoyed a nice dinner at that very Applebee's with several attendees of this past year's event -- along with other special guests Don Pedro Colley and Byron Cherry!)

The 2008 show will be on the fourth weekend in August:

Hair Dare Dukes Weekend
August 22, 23, 24, 2008
"Dinner with the Stars" on Friday night, and more information to come !!

"We are working on many new things for the 2008 event," Paul says. "We will need many volunteers for 2008, so, If you can help out, please let me know, ASAP!!" You can email Paul at cdndukes@mnsi.net, or visit his website, CanadianDukes.com.

Paul also notes that he still has a few of the 2007 event T-shirts for sale.

He's got many "Dukes of Hazzard"-related groups on the web:
http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/thecanadiandukesfanclub/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/The_Canadian_Dukes_of_Hazzard_Museum/ http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/Hair_Dare_Dukes_Day_for_Cancer/

And even BRB's own ...
http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/Billie_Rae_Bates/

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Archie Comics story contest has its first winner

From Archie Comics

MAMARONECK , NY – When Archie comics announced the Weekly Story Contest was opened to Archie fans of all ages, from all over the world, one of our international fans accepted the challenge and became the first grand-prize winner. Maha, an Archie fan from Athens, Greece, has won the Quarterly Story Contest.

Maha was the week 6 winner from our Weekly Story Contest, with her story "Driving with Ethel." The story went on to win the Quarterly Story Contest and will be featured in Archie's Pals 'N' Gals Double Digest # 116 which went on sale on Monday (November 5).



The story includes all the kids from Riverdale with art by Archie Comics' own Fernando Ruiz. When Maha received personal congratulations from publisher Michael Silberkleit, she told him "I'm really excited about winning the grand prize and I have told everybody I know. This is a great achievement for me and I'd like to thank you for the contest."
Want to join in the fun? For rules and information about the contest go to http://archiecomicblogs.typepad.com/weekly_contest_rules

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

Bill Campbell ventures into "Ghost Town"

On our beloved "Dynasty," Bill Campbell played Luke Fuller, love interest to Steven Carrington. He went by William Campbell back then. (And wouldya believe, by the way, that the character of Billy Campbell on Fox's 1990s "Melrose Place" was actually named after the actor? We always wondered about that!)

Campbell has a couple new projects going on. One is "The Circuit," filmed this year in Canada by Von Zerneck Sertner Films for release on TV next year. Directed by Peter Werner and written by Janet Brownell and Bill Hanley, the movie is about the relationship between a father and his estranged daughter.

Campbell's in good company on the cast list of "Ghost Town": Téa Leoni, Greg Kinnear, Alan Ruck. It's a DreamWorks production, filming in New York for release next August. The plotline from the IMDb: "Bertram Pincus is a man whose people skills leave much to be desired. When Pincus dies unexpectedly, but is miraculously revived after seven minutes, he wakes up to discover that he now has the annoying ability to see ghosts. Even worse, they all want something from him, particularly Frank Herlihy (Greg Kinnear) who pesters him into breaking up the impending marriage of his widow Gwen (Téa Leoni). That puts Pincus squarely in the middle of a triangle with spirited results." It's written and directed by David Koepp.

This guy's life is quite interesting, by the way. Not only is Campbell an heir to the Champion spark plug fortune, but he was the second choice for the role of Will Riker on "Star Trek: The Next Generation," according to the IMDb.

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

BRBTV birthdays for November

- Timothy Patrick Murphy, who was Mickey Trotter on "Dallas," was born on November 3, 1959 and died December 6, 1988.
- Kate Reid, who was Mickey's mom Lil on "Dallas," was born on November 4, 1930 and died March 27, 1993.
- Deborah Rennard, our own Sly Lovegren on "Dallas," turns 48 on November 4.
- Todd McKee, our own original Ted Capwell on "Santa Barbara," turns 44 on November 7.
- Russell Johnson, who is a BRBTV triple-shot for playing Sheriff Wyatt Mansfield on "Dallas," Earl Thompson on "Dynasty" and the third Roger Wainwright (Julia's dad) on "SB," turns 83 on November 10.
- Jack Scalia, the mysterious Nicholas Pearce / Joey Lombardi on "Dallas," has a birthday on November 10, as well, turning 56.
- Vincent Irizarry, a bigtime soaper who was Scott Clark on "SB," turns 48 on November 12.
- Dack Rambo, the hunky Jack Ewing of "Dallas," was born on November 13, 1941 and died of AIDS on March 21, 1994.
- Tracy Scoggins, our Monica Colby of "Dynasty" and "The Colbys," as well as Anita Smithfield on "Dallas: War of the Ewings," turns 54 on November 13.
- Edward Asner, the voice of Roland Daggett in "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 78 on November 15.
- Tricia Cast, who was Christy Duvall on "Santa Barbara," turns 39 on November 16.
- George O. Petrie, who played Harv Smithfield on "Dallas," was born on November 16, 1912 and died November 16, 1997.
- Brandon Call, the third Brandon DeMott Capwell on "SB," who was also notable as J.T. Lambert on ABC's sitcom "Step By Step" (side-by-side with Sasha Mitchell and Patrick Duffy of "Dallas"), as well as Hobie Buchanon in the syndicated "Baywatch," turns a so-young 31 on November 17.
- Rock Hudson, who played Daniel Reece on "Dynasty," was born on November 17, 1925 and, like Dack Rambo, died of AIDS, on October 2, 1985.
- Linda Evans, Hudson's on-screen love interest for a time, as Krystle on "Dynasty," turns 65 on November 18.
- Jocelyn Brando, who was John Ross' nanny Mrs. Reeves on "Dallas," was born on November 18, 1919 and died November 27, 2005.
- Joseph Campanella, a true classic actor who is a BRBTV triple-shot for his roles as mobster Joseph Lombardi Sr. on "Dallas" and Hutch Corrigan on "The Colbys," as well as Dr. Matthew Thorne on "Batman: TAS," turns 80 on November 21.
- Deborah Shelton, the stunning Mandy Winger on "Dallas," turns 59 on November 21.
- Maxwell Caulfield, our own Miles Colby of "Dynasty" and "The Colbys," turns 48 on November 23.
- Michael Brainard, our final Ted Capwell on "Santa Barbara," turns 42 on November 23.
- Roscoe Born, our "SB" evil-twin actor as Robert Barr and Quinn Armitage, turns 57 on November 24.
- And ... sigh ... one of BRBTV's very favorite actors ... the wonderful, the great, the accomplished, the amazing (!) Ricardo Montalban, who was Zach Powers on "The Colbys" among so many other things, will turn 87 on November 25.
- Marcy Walker, our own Eden Capwell of "SB" who since has settled into work for God's Kingdom, turns 46 on November 26.
- Joshua Harris, our darling little Christopher Ewing of "Dallas," is a big boy now, turning 29 on November 27.
- Stephen Elliott, who was Scotty Demarest on "Dallas," was born on November 27, 1918
and died May 21, 2005.
- Sherilyn Wolter, the evil Elena Nikolas / Capwell on "SB," has a birthday on November 30, turning 56.
- Efrem Zimbalist Jr., who voiced Alfred the butler in "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 89 on November 30.
- Kevin Conroy, who voiced Batman in "Batman: The Animated Series" and all the other series that spun off from it, as well as playing Bart Fallmont on "Dynasty," turns 52 on November 30.


Happy birthday to all!

Monday, November 05, 2007

Must be John Allen Nelson just has the look of a politician!

We were disappointed when John Allen Nelson's show "Vanished" sputtered out last season on Fox. He made a supercool senator, but we just dug the fact that he was back in action, back on the screen. Well, not to worry -- our original Warren Lockridge of "Santa Barbara" has something new in the works. He'll play JFK in a movie scheduled for release next year.

"Fire Bay" tells the story of the infamous Bay of Pigs invasion of 1961. Written and directed by Randall Fried, the action thriller filmed in the Dominican Republic and comes from Dragon Fire Films. It also features José Zúñiga, whose resume includes just about every crime drama you can name, and Michael Biehn.

Read a little more about the film at MovieWeb.com.

Friday, November 02, 2007

Adrian Paul stars in new Sci Fi movie

The next classic TV star saddling up to Sci Fi Channel's unstoppable Saturday-night creature feature is Adrian Paul, known to us as Kolya / Nikolai Rostov of the "Dynasty" spinoff, "The Colbys."

Paul takes the lead role in "Captain Drake," described as a "pirate-themed fantasy-action movie." As Sir Francis Drake, he tries to find the Tree of Life to save his daughter, encountering lots of scary stuff along the way, including the feature's creature, some sea monsters.

Directed by David Flores and written by Rafael Jordan, "Captain Drake" is filming on location in the Black Sea and eastern Europe and is due late next year, according to Reuters and the Hollywood Reporter.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: The newest tree hugger ... Sue Ellen Ewing! Or, more specifically, her portrayer, Linda Gray! Our "Dallas" star has had an interest in environmental issues in the past, and yesterday she showed up to support the Gloucestershire 1000 tree planting campaign in the U.K., reports Ebrington.com.

Thursday, November 01, 2007

John Travolta scheming to do in ... Rob Lowe? "Dallas" casting rumors continue

CinemaBlend.com is checking in with some unconfirmed tidbits about the "Dallas" big-screen remake that we've all been awaiting so anxiously. Now, we'll remind you of what they say in their story, that these things are unconfirmed, but what they're saying is that Rob Lowe and Matthew Fox are the latest stars being considered for the project, now being directed by Betty Thomas.

Katie Cassidy is evidently back in (or still in?) as Lucy Ewing, according to this "scooper." But holy cow -- Rob Lowe as Cliff Barnes? We dunno. The scooper also says the film will return to the roots of the show -- the very beginning of the pilot episode -- for its content.

At the same time, though, rumors swirl (we don't exactly like posting unconfirmed stuff, but it's quite scintillating stuff, and we are attaching that red blinking "rumor" light to it!) that there's another "Dallas" movie project in the works -- another reunion movie of the original cast, to be exact.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Lane Davies, our own lovable Shakespearean original Mason Capwell of "Santa Barbara," is making the news at Middle Tennessee State University. His role in the new production of "Romeo and Juliet" is featured in their student newspaper.

BRBTV News Blog Blip, Also: And finally, we just had to give you a glimpse, courtesy of our buddy Chad Fullerton, of John Schneider's presentation of the national anthem at Atlanta Motor Speedway this past weekend. Thanks, Chad, for passing these along ...