Merete Van Kamp returns to acting with three new projects

Well, here's "another country heard from," as the cliche goes, for the BRBTV News Blog: Ms. Merete Van Kamp, the lovely blond Grace Van Owen of "Dallas" who seemed to remind us so much of Michelle Pfeiffer (and we're not the only ones, we've heard). It looks like Van Kamp has just come out of a semiretirement in the acting world, having kept a quieter career since her days in the Dream Season of our beloved primetime soap.

The Danish sweetie has three new projects brewing for 2007, the first since a brief acting stint a decade ago. One is "Westbrick Murders," a crime drama scheduled for release at the end of this year. She plays Rebecca Sommerson in the film, written and directed by Shaun Rana with filming locations in England. The story deals with a young rookie cop who must cross paths with two notorious serial killers. Hottie Eric Roberts (recently so smashing on NBC's "Heroes") also stars.

Also on tap for Van Kamp is "Craig," another thriller flick with roots in Denmark, like our actress, who portrays a character named Leila. The plotline from the film's IMDb page: "Craig is left all by his own when his parents die in a fire, and when he loses his medication, his world is turned into terror and fear." Craig is played by Kim Sønderholm, who's also writing and directing this one. The production company is Apotheosis Film, with filming locations for this one in Denmark. The film has a MySpace page, where you'll see a photo of Van Kamp.

The trio of projects rounds out with "Næste skridt" (translated "next step"), where Van Kamp plays Jordemoder. The plotline from the IMDb: "Thomas, Dennis, Mads, Søs and Kirsten have all been friends through many years in spite of their differences. In common for them all is the big step they need to overcome to enter adulthood." Sønderholm joins her in this film, as well, portraying Thomas. This one also films in Denmark, for Ursa Major Productions. It's written and directed by Morgan Nørgaard.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Speaking of "Dallas," visit UltimateDallas.com to sign up for your chance to win one of several copies of the seventh-season DVD they're giving away.

See My Lee! (Bike!)

Continuing in that "Friday is See My Lee! Day" theme ... This one is a Lee on two wheels! It's a pocket bike, decalled by Paul Harrington of the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club, organizer of next month's Hair Dare Dukes Days benefit for the Canadian Cancer Society. Cute, isn't it? He's says it's for sale; just contact him at cdndukes@mnsi.net.

Photos courtesy of Paul Harrington

And while we're talkin' "The Dukes" ...

We're really diggin' the Klingon Disrupter and the William Shatner and DeForest Kelley outfits from "Star Trek" ... and heck, we could really get-into that hat Vivien Leigh wore in "Gone With the Wind" ... but a genuine General Lee, too? Profiles in History is offering up another slew of Hollywood memorabilia for auction on August 2 and 3. One of the items is the genuine, screen-used Lee, for which they estimate the value at $180,000-$220,000 (thanks, Mr. Schneider!).

eBay Live Auctions will be the host, and bidding begins at noon both days. Visit the Calibre site to see a nice list of some of the more than 1,000 items: http://calibre.mworld.com/m/m.w?lp=GetStory&id=261130181

(The Statue of Liberty head from "Planet of the Apes"? Now there's a keeper -- BRBTV just loves those "Apes" movies!)

Archie Comics will be meeting and greeting in San Diego, too

Earlier this week, we told you about some BRBTV stars who'll be showing up to the big Comic-Con International in San Diego this month. Well, we just got word of what's planned for the year's biggest con by powerhouse Archie Comics, as well.

It all happens in the San Diego Convention Center the weekend of July 26-29; room locations are noted ...

Thursday noon to 1 p.m.

Andrew Pepoy’s Professional Networking Seminar — Get set for a weekend of pressing the flesh and selling yourself with this popular Comic-Con seminar! Being talented just isn’t enough—getting work and continuing to work in the comic book and comic strip publishing worlds often means knowing the right people as well. Inker and writer/artist Andrew Pepoy (Jack of Fables, Katy Keene) brings back his popular seminar to help teach you how to get out there and use Comic-Con to its fullest networking potential. Take advantage of this early time slot to put some of Andrew’s good advice to work over the next few days! Room 10

Friday 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Spotlight on George Gladir — One of the most prolific writers ever in comics, Comic-Con special guest George Gladir has entertained readers with almost 50 years of stories for Archie Comics. Join Gladir as he talks about his incredible career in comics with friend and cartoonist Batton Lash. Room 3

8:30-11:30 a.m.

Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards — The 19th annual Eisner Awards, the “Oscars” of the comics industry, will be given out by celebrity presenters, including Reno 911’s Tom Lennon and Ben Garant, comedian Brian Posehn, cartoon voice actor Maurice LeMarche, British TV celebrity Jonathan Ross, and author Neil Gaiman. Other prestigious awards to be given out include the Russ Manning Promising Newcomer Award and the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award. The master of ceremonies is Bongo Comics’ Bill Morrison, who will be aided by the Go-Gos’ Jane Wiedlen. Gardner Fox and George Gladir have been selected to receive the 2007 Bill Finger Award for Excellence in Comic Book Writing. The choice was made unanimously by a blue-ribbon committee chaired by writer and historian Mark Evanier. Admission to the Eisners is free to all Comic-Con attendees—just be sure to bring your badge. Doors open for pros and VIPs at 7:30 and for attendees at 8:15. Ballroom 20

Sunday 10:30 -11:30 a.m.

Archie Comics — Archie comics creators Craig Boldman (Archie newspaper strip, Jughead), Tania del Rio (Sabrina), Bill Galvan (Jughead & Friends -- shown at right), George Gladir (Archie, Betty, Betty & Veronica), Rich Koslowski (Archie & Friends, Jughead, Sonic), Dan Parent (Betty & Veronica, Veronica), Andrew Pepoy (Archie & Friends: Katy Keene, Betty & Veronica, Sonic) and staff members Victor Gorelick (VP/managing editor), Fred Mausser (VP/director of circulation), and Rik Offenberger (public relations coordinator) discuss upcoming plans at Archie Comics, talk about comics for kids, and take questions from the audience. At the conclusion of the panel there will be free copies of Archie Digest #236 for fans, while supplies last. Room 4

12:30-2:00 p.m.

Secret Origin of Good Readers — It’s back, bigger and better than ever! The 7th annual Secret Origin of Good Readers panel features Dr. Robyn A. Hill (National University, San Diego), Mimi Cruz (Night Flight Comics, Salt Lake City), Bill Morrison (creative director, Bongo Comics), Jesse L. McCann (noted children's author), Bill Galvan (creator/artist The Scrapyard Detectives, artist Archie Comics) and Frank Beddor (creator/author/producer, The Looking Glass Wars). The panelists will discuss how teachers, librarians, retailers, authors, artists, and publishers can work together to bring comic books into the classroom for use as an innovative and motivating cross-curricular teaching tool and a vehicle for promoting reading and literacy. Through a multimedia presentation, personal remarks, and a question-and-answer session, the speakers will present an overview of the medium and highlight specific ways that comic books and graphic novels have been used to engage a variety of learners. Breakout sessions will follow the main presentation. The 70-page resource book The Secret Origin of Good Readers is available online for free download - click www.night-flight.com/secretorigin/SOGR05.pdf to download it, courtesy of XMission.com. Room 3

Elsewhere in Archie Comics ...

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #111

“Making it Big”: It’s a sad song and a happy song for Riverdale’s favorite garage band: sad when The Archies blow an audition to appear on national TV, and big time when they end up on TV anyway… courtesy of an unexpected voice from the past! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg.

On sale newsstand July 24, 2007

32-page, full-color comic

$2.25

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #153

PART THREE OF A SPECIAL FOUR-ISSUE SAGA FEATURING RIVERDALE’S FAVORITE TEENS IN A WHOLE NEW LOOK!“Bad Boy Trouble Part 3”: Months after Archie Comics announced an extreme makeover for their flagship characters, the buzz continues! At this year’s second annual blockbuster New York City Comic-Con, both fans and media alike swarmed the Archie Comics booth hoping to learn more about this major event! Is wild man Nick St. Clair the misunderstand romantic he’s convinced Veronica he is, or the wolf in biker’s clothing that her friends think he is? All will be revealed in the pages of BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST, so be sure to reserve your copy of this much-anticipated issue, drawn in an all-new realistic style that has everyone talking! SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan. ART: Steven Butler. PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to “Find Your Name in Print!”

On sale newsstand July 24, 2007

Full-color digest format

$3.69

BRBTV birthdays in July

- Brock Peters, who voiced Lucius Fox on "Batman: The Animated Series," was born on July 2, 1927 and died on August 23, 2005.
- Signy Coleman, our Celeste DiNapoli of "Santa Barbara," who also did an 1987 episode of "Dallas," turned 47 on Independence Day.
- Rosemary Forsyth, the original Sophia Capwell (and Dominic) of "SB," and Anne McFadden on "Dallas," turned 64 on July 6.
- Grant Goodeve, who was Chris Deegan on "Dynasty," also had a birthday on July 6, turning 55.
- Kimberly Foster, who portrayed Michelle Stevens on "Dallas," is our third July 6 birthday, turning 46.
- Sandy Ward, who played Jeb Ames on "Dallas," was born on July 12, 1926, and died on March 6, 2005.
- Dale Robertson, who was Walter Lankershim on "Dynasty" and Frank Crutcher on "Dallas," turns 84 on July 14.
- Ken Kercheval, our unforgettable Cliff Barnes of "Dallas," turns 72 on July 15.
- Barbara Stanwyck, the legendary film star who was Constance Colby on "The Colbys," was born on July 16, 1907 and died on January 20, 1990.
- Diahann Carroll, the songstress who vexed Alexis as Dominique Devereaux on "Dynasty," turns 72 on July 17.
- Audrey Landers, who was Afton Cooper on "Dallas" and a couple roles on "The Dukes of Hazzard," turns 48 on July 18.
- George Dzundza, the voice of the Ventriloquist on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 62 on July 19.
- Paul Burke, the second C.C. Capwell of "Santa Barbara," who also did a memorable turn on "Dynasty" as Neal McVane, turns 81 on July 21.
- Art Hindle, who brokered babies as Jeff Farraday on "Dallas," turns 59 on July 21.
- Lenore Kasdorf, the lovely Caroline Wilson on "SB," turns 59 on July 23.
- James Best, our own Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane of "The Dukes of Hazzard," turns 81 on July 26.
- Keenan Wynn, the second Digger Barnes on "Dallas," was born on July 27, 1916 and died on October 14, 1986.
- Sasha Mitchell, another "Dallas" alum as long-lost Ewing son James Beaumont, turns the big 4-0 on July 27.
- Lloyd Bochner, who was Cecil Colby on "Dynasty," was born on July 29, 1924 and died on October 29, 2005.
- David Warner, who was the commanding and ghoulish Ra's al Ghul on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 66 on July 29.
- Ben Piazza, our own Walt Driscoll of "Dallas," was born on July 30, 1934, and died on September 7, 1991.
- Susan Flannery, who played Leslie Stewart on "Dallas," turns 64 on July 31.
- Lane Davies, the unforgettable original Mason Capwell on "Santa Barbara," who showed up on "Dallas" as Craig Gurney, also has a birthday on July 31, turning 57.


Happy birthday to all!

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Some of our "Dallas" faves came out for a special charity auction of the series' memorabilia in France. Larry Hagman, Linda Gray, Patrick Duffy, Steve Kanaly and Charlene Tilton helped auction the items, which included a Stetson hat worn by J.R. and some cowboy boots worn by Bobby. Read more at the BBC site.

Tracy Scoggins, Jack Coleman: See you in San Diego

In the world of comic-cons, the San Diego con is the biggie, and every fanboy's dream. This is the one where the entertainment world pulls out all the stops and sends their big names for big panel discussions and appearances. This year, Jack Coleman, our own second Steven Carrington of "Dynasty," is certainly riding the wave of popularity for his new show "Heroes," which blasted out of the gate at NBC last fall and hasn't stopped smokin' since. Meanwhile, his former co-star Tracy Scoggins, our own Monica Colby who was mentioned just a post or two ago as highly favored in the new "Babylon 5" DVD movie, is also riding pretty high these days. Both of these "Dynasty" alums will be appearing at the San Diego Comic-Con International.

Coleman will participate in a Q&A session with his "Heroes" castmates at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, July 28 at the show. A clip from the show's second season will also be shown.

Scoggins will join the panel discussion of "Babylon 5: The Lost Tales" after a showing of footage from the film, which releases at the end of the month. That panel happens at 6 p.m. Friday, July 27.

And, just to make this comic-con a BRBTV triple-shot, Bruce Timm, executive producer/director/writer of the new "Superman Doomsday" animated film and executive producer/director/writer and whatever else for our beloved "Batman: The Animated Series," will also appear. He'll be part of a panel discussion accompanying the showing of the "Doomsday" film at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 26. Timm's partner in crimefighting Paul Dini will also attend the con (guess that makes it a quadruple shot, eh?).

To see the full schedule, check out the SlashFilm.com site, or the San Diego Comic-Con International official site.

Next for Maxwell Caulfield: "La Cage aux Folles"

He jumps right from "Chicago" to "La Cage aux Folles," our handsome Miles-Colby-turned-Broadway-star. And by jumped, we mean jumped -- the show opens July 17 and runs until August 4 at the Ogunquit Playhouse, BroadwayWorld.com announced on Friday. Our "Dynasty" star is fresh off his role as Billy Flynn in London.

The production at the summer theatre in Ogunquit, Maine, is based on a play by Jean Poiret, which was also made into a hit film. Caulfield will portray Georges, and he'll share the stage with former Miss America Susan Powell, who also has some suds in her background -- she was Cora on CBS' "Guiding Light."

Caulfield, BroadwayWorld.com points out, also starred in the Broadway production of "An Inspector Calls" and Off-Broadway productions of "Entertaining Mr. Sloane," "My Night with Reg" and "Salonica" as well as touring productions of "The Elephant Man" and "Sleuth."

For more info, see the Ogunquit Playhouse's website.

See My Lee! Another U.K. edition!

Oh, we just love this ... Mr. Stephen Gallantree, who, like Mr. Lee Duke (!) featured last Friday, lives in the U.K. and contacted Year One here in the States for help with his own General Lee, sent us these marvelous photos ...

As you can see, they offer a nice glimpse of both "before" and "after" ...

Photos courtesy of Stephen Gallantree

Tracy Scoggins' new "Babylon 5" movie releases

We reported in the November 10, 2006 post of the BRBTV News Blog that Tracy Scoggins -- our own Monica Colby of "Dynasty" and "The Colbys" as well as Anita Smithfield of "Dallas" and that feisty blonde cop on "The Dukes of Hazzard" -- was working on a new "Babylon 5" movie. Now that movie has a release date for DVD: July 31. And Scoggins even gets a nice shot on the DVD's cover, which you can check out at the WB page for the release.

"Babylon 5: The Lost Tales" concerns a series of events set after the TV show. "Sheridan prepares for a fateful Babylon 5 reunion that could prevent Earth's impending doom ... if he will also compromise his core principles," the promo says. "Meanwhile, commander Lochley confronts an unexpected interloper on the way station -- a being whose presence makes the B5 freeport the crossroads between heaven and hell." Bruce Boxleitner stars with Scoggins, who reprises her role as Elizabeth Lochley. The DVD's extras include director J. Michael Straczynski's diary of the film's production.

Hair Dare Dukes Days offer a star-car paradise

Plans are shaping up for this year's Hair Dare Dukes Days in Ontario, sponsored by the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club and benefiting the Canadian Cancer Society, as mentioned previously here in this very blog ...

One big part of the show, which is the fifth annual event and which has expanded to two days this year, is the star-car quotient. It's big, if the below list is any indication!

C'mon out on August 10-12, and you'll not only meet Byron "Coy Duke" Cherry, Christopher "Vance Duke" Mayer, Don Pedro "Sheriff Little" Colley, BRB herself and Paul Casey, Vegas (and DukesFest) performer extraordinnaire, but you'll also meet the following ...

**At least 15 General Lees!**
3 Hazzard County Sheriff cars from the series
Hazzard County Sheriff car from the 2005 movie
Hazzard County Sheriff boat
Daisy Duke "Dixie" Jeep
"Carnival of Thrills" two-part episode car
Chickasaw County Sheriff car
Double Zero Mustang
The Colonel car
"Dukes of Hazzard" memorabilia museum
K.I.T.T. car from "Knight Rider"
Batman boat from '60s series
"Lost in Space" robot
"Starsky & Hutch" Torino
"A-Team" van
"Mad Max" Falcon
"Blues"-mobile
"Smokey and the Bandit" Trans Am

And can we just note that a good share of these cars are owned by chicks! Yeee-haaaa!

Have you picked up that extra memory card for your camera yet?

Fredric Lehne: "Claire" and more

So ... whatever happened to ... that guy who played Eddie Cronin on "Dallas"? You know, mid-'80s? Lucy's buddy while she was working at the restaurant? Well, Fredric Lehne hasn't dropped off the radar, that's for sure. He's peppered his resume with all kinds of good TV in the years since he left "Dallas": "Wiseguy," "Matlock," "Babylon 5," "CSI," "Touched By An Angel" and much more. Now, Lehne is working on a couple new projects, one of which you'll see on your small screen in August.

"Claire" stars the trimming-down Valerie Bertinelli, no doubt riding the wave of her weight-loss campaign with Kirstie Alley. "When her neighbors are suddenly murdered, Claire Bannion (Bertinelli), a widowed mother with a unique psychic gift, must assist the police in locating the killer," says the press materials from the Hallmark Channel, where the movie will air on Saturday, August 11. "As the pressure intensifies to find the murderer before new victims are claimed, it is those closest to Claire who are in the most danger -- and under the most scrutiny." Lehne plays the character of David.

Lehne then takes a scholarly turn in "Apology," a tale of coed Sophie Hoffkind, who's "in search of her sexual identity," and who "spins into crisis after she sleeps with her professor and he unexpectedly dies the morning after," the IMDb says. Lehne portrays Professor Michael Slateman. The drama, from Longtale Films, is written and directed by Leah Yananton and is classified as in postproduction.

Also this year, Lehne has had a recurring role as a janitor and demon (!) on the CW's creepfest "Supernatural."

Photo: Kevin Lynch/© 2007 Crown Media; courtesy of the Hallmark Channel

See My Lee!

This is what we could call the U.K. version of our occasional feature "See My Lee!" on the BRBTV News Blog, our glimpse at just who out there owns a General Lee replica or actual Lee used in "The Dukes of Hazzard." Today we've got a fine replica from across the pond ...

Now hold onto your Cooter-cap, 'cuz not only is this Lee owner's last name really "Duke," but his first name is actually Lee! Holy "01"! There's just something so poetic about that. Mr. Duke -- who could also be called the Duke of Duke, our buddy and tipster Chad notes -- got some help from Year One over here in the States with this blazin' orange beauty, to make, as he puts it, his "childhood dream come true."

It's a big news week in "The Dukes" world, meanwhile. Renee of the All-John blog passes along the news that John Schneider will be starring in "Give My Regards to Broadway: Television Legends in an Evening of Song," an upcoming benefit concert for Reprise! Broadway's Best. Playbill.com reports that the show will be performed on July 21 at the Brentwood Theatre in West Los Angeles. Our own Bo Duke is in fine company (so to speak): fellow fabbo classic TV stars Pam Dawber, Florence Henderson, Ken Howard (one of our "Dynasty" alums), Shirley Jones, Michele Lee, Hal Linden, Peter Marshall, Jean Smart and Dick Van Dyke (and hey, we'd go just to see Mr. Van Dyke -- he rocks). Snag your own tickets at http://www.reprise.org/.

Meanwhile, in Wopat's world, our our Luke Duke has a new role, himself. Tom Wopat has joined the cast of Broadway's "A Catered Affair," BroadwayWorld.com reports. He will "create the role of Tom Hurley, father-of-the-bride in this musical set in 1953 Bronx centered on a family wedding," the site says. The show will open next spring.

Watch the BRBTV News Blog next week for another "See My Lee!" from across the pond! It's a contagion! (And hey, what a great thing to catch!)

Betty and Veronica swap suits and start a trend

BETTY & VERONICA #228

“Whatever Suits Her”: Accidentally swapping bikini tops and bottoms in the store’s dressing room leads Betty & Veronica to start a mismatched bathing suit trend! SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Jeff Shultz. “A Fair with Flair”: The Riverdale street fair has lots of bargains… and shoppers who are “priceless!” SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Jeff Shultz. “Identity Crisis”: Betty and Veronica decide to swap roles, but how long can Veronica “rough it?” SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Jeff Shultz.
On sale newsstand July 10, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

PALS-N-GAL’S DOUBLE DIGEST #113

The spotlight is on the wonderful cast of Archie supporting characters, in this double digest featuring new stories and classic tales. SCRIPT & ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to “Find Your Name in Print!”
On sale newsstand July 10, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69

Victoria Principal takes your questions, and a little Bat-fun ...

Anything you've always wanted to know about Pammie but were afraid to ask? The Ultimate Dallas site is doing an interview with Victoria Principal, which will be posted this weekend. Submit your questions for Principal at this link:
http://www.ultimatedallas.com/victoriaprincipal

Meanwhile, we simply cannot resist passing along a fun link when we find one -- especially one that's a little Batty. Now c'mon, be honest: What Batfan out there in the Batworld has not had a Batman-themed birthday cake at some point in their lives? Heck, we've had three or four over the years, mixed in there with Wonder Woman, Strawberry Shortcake and that fabulous King Kong-themed birthday back in 1977 ...
http://tomztoyz.blogspot.com/2007/06/batman-birthday-cake-photo-animated.html

Audrey Landers gets her own "Burn Notice," and it's a good thing!

The cast for USA's new series "Burn Notice" already looked great -- the always-delightful Bruce Campbell of all of our favorite Sam Raimi projects, Gabrielle Anwar, Sharon Gless -- but now Audrey Landers has tipped off BRBTV that she will be part of the cast, too!

Our own Afton Cooper of "Dallas," as well as a couple different characters on "The Dukes of Hazzard," Landers checked in with BRBTV yesterday. "They are introducing the character, Veronica, a little at a time, starting at the end of July," she told us of "Burn Notice," which premieres this Thursday.

Right now, USA is just promoting the four core characters on its official website for the show, which centers around an FBI agent, Jeffrey Donovan as Michael Westen, who gets "burned," or fired from his post. The episode that Landers referenced, airing at the end of the July, is called "Family Business," according to the USA site. Hmmm ....

BRBTV News Blog Blip: And while we're talking "Dallas," the Edmonton (Canada) Sun offers a little tidbit quote on John Travolta and his view of the big-budget remake of the show.

CMT gets "Addicted to the Dukes," Wopat talks "Chicago"

First off for the week on the BRBTV News Blog, we're going to pass along to you an email we got from CMT over the weekend:

Watch Born Country:
"Addicted to The Dukes of Hazzard" on CMT
Friday, July 13 @ 11 p.m. ET / 10 p.m. CT

OK, we didn't quite replicate the flamin'-red, mile-high lettering, which was nothing but fun, but you still get the message ...

Moving right along, in "The Dukes of Hazzard" world, Tom Wopat, our boy Luke Duke, is quoted in yesterday's Orange County Register for his role in the musical "Chicago," which is playing there, at the Orange County Performing Arts Center.

"I didn't really identify with this cynical type of musical," Wopat said. "It wasn't until I worked on it for a while that I really began to enjoy it." (One of the other actors who've tackled Wopat's role of Billy Flynn in "Chicago" is Greg Evigan, our own Willie Gust of "Dallas.")

Read more at the Orange County Register's site.

By the way, have you seen Warner Bros. official site for our beloved (classic) "Dukes"? It's reasonably snazz, with the video clip of the birth of the General Lee, and synopses and photo gallery. It branches off from the WB's official site for the "Dukes" in general.

Burnett and Conroy talk "Batman: The Animated Series" and more

With their appearances at the Florida SuperCon this weekend, Alan Burnett and Kevin Conroy of "Batman: The Animated Series" have been doing the interview circuit this past week. Newsarama, a comics-related website, did interviews with each of them.

In his interview, writer and producer Burnett talks about "The Batman" animated series currently airing on the CW, as well as its differences from our beloved "Batman: The Animated Series." He goes into a little bit of the history of when Jean MacCurdy at Warner Bros. Animation first asked him over to work on the '90s series.

"Jean knew I loved Batman and she was the one who brought me over just to toughen up the show, which we were being given the opportunity over at Fox," he says. "In fact, we were being given the opportunity to do a breakout show, one for much older kids. People forget we got an Emmy that year, in part because 'The Simpsons' said they wanted to be treated like a prime-time comedy. So all the stars aligned for us that year."

Read the whole interview with Alan Burnett at Newsarama: http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=117281

For his part, Kevin Conroy, the tough voice of Batman throughout "TAS" as well as "Justice League," "Superman" and "Batman Beyond," delves into some historical nuggets, as well. And BRBTV knows him just as well, actually, as Bart Fallmont on "Dynasty."

"You know, it’s the oddest thing," he says. "I graduated from Julliard. I’ve done a lot of work off-Broadway. I really have a strong base in classical and regional theater. Then I move out to L.A. to do a series, 'Dynasty.' So while I was there, I had a voiceover agent who said they were going to be casting for a new animated show, one about Batman. He thought I should give it a shot. ... I think it was the fact I was so naïve that got me the part. I went in with no pre-conceived ideas. I went in just as an actor."

Read Newsarama's interview with Conroy:
http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=117640

And since we're talking "Batman: The Animated Series," we'll pass along a fun appreciation we found to the show:
http://www.syfyportal.com/news423783.html

Archies for July include special 65th anniversary digest issue

ARCHIE’S DOUBLE DIGEST #180
Double your pages, double your Archie and double your fun in this double digest full of new stories and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to “Find Your Name in Print!”
On sale newsstand July 3, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69


ARCHIE #577
"Record Breaker": Instead of pressing CD's, the Archies decide to sell downloadable files of their songs on the internet… which doesn't translate to much profit once the 3 purchased files are shared over and over again! SCRIPT: Craig Boldman. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Friendly Fire": Tired of the girls fighting over him, Archie decides giving up both Betty and Veronica will save their relationship.... but can it save Archie from the girls' wrath?! SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. "Canoe Help Us?": Archie takes Veronica for a one-way canoe ride … unintentionally one-way, of course! SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale newsstand August 7, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #111
"Making it Big": It's a sad song and a happy song for Riverdale's favorite garage band: sad when The Archies blow an audition to appear on national TV, and big time when they end up on TV anyway… courtesy of an unexpected voice from the past! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale newsstand July 24, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

ARCHIE DIGEST #236
A VERY SPECIAL ISSUE CELEBRATING ARCHIE COMICS' 65th ANNIVERSARY!
For 65 years Archie and his friends from Riverdale High have been delighting audiences of all ages. Now, in tribute to Archie's longevity, this special issue of ARCHIE DIGEST pays tribute to Archie's illustrious past by reprinting Archie's very first adventures from PEP COMICS #22 and ARCHIE COMICS #1! From Archie being a hapless showoff when Betty moves into town, to Archie being a tongue-tied, discombobulated wreck when Veronica moves into town, these early stories written by Vic Bloom and others reflect the free-wheeling fun of the popular screwball comedy movies of the day. Not to mention the charmingly exaggerated cartooning styles of Bob Montana and others so popular in the 1940s. As if that weren't enough, the original "funny animal" supporting features like Squoimy the Woim, Cubby the Bear and Bumbie the Bee-tective, from the legendary Joe Edwards are also included! If you've never seen Archie and his friends as they originally appeared, you're in for a treat with these milestone tales… as well as a brand new story created in homage to the gang – " When Archie Meets Archie": On the eve of his 65th anniversary, Archie Andrews meets… himself! At least, the version of himself that appeared in Archie's first story! After Archie gets used to calling his other self "Chic," he ends up meeting the vintage Jughead and Betty, too – also drawn 1940s style! The space-time continuum has never seen anything like this! SCRIPT: Fernando Ruiz. ART: Rex Lindsey. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to "Find Your Name in Print!"
On sale newsstand July 24, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49

ARCHIE'S DOUBLE DIGEST #181
Double your pages, double your Archie and double your fun in this double digest full of new stories and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to "Find Your Name in Print!"
On sale newsstand August 7, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69

BETTY #167
"Cloud 9": A kiss from Archie sends Betty afloat… literally… in this whimsical tale! SCRIPT: Craig Boldman. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Nothing to Do": Betty visits Veronica to fight the summer doldrums, and learns just how valuable having "down time" can be! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Falling Apart": With fall just around the corner, Betty laments the passing the summer… or does she? SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale newsstand August 7, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

BETTY & VERONICA #229
"Caved In": Veronica is mortified when Betty takes her cave exploring – until she sees the hunky tour guide! Surprises and dangers await in this thrilling tale!
"Childish Pursuits": The boys give Betty and Veronica a hard time over their fondness for the hot new anime series, "Fairy Princess Bluebell."
"Really Gifted": In this touching tale, the girls learn about a catalog where they can purchase clean water, food and other needs for those living in impoverished countries. SCRIPTS: Kathleen Webb. ART: Jeff Shultz.
On sale newsstand August 14, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #153
PART THREE OF A SPECIAL FOUR-ISSUE SAGA FEATURING RIVERDALE'S FAVORITE TEENS IN A WHOLE NEW LOOK!
"Bad Boy Trouble Part 3": Months after Archie Comics announced an extreme makeover for their flagship characters, the buzz continues! At this year's second annual blockbuster New York City Comic-Con, both fans and media alike swarmed the Archie Comics booth hoping to learn more about this major event! Is wild man Nick St. Clair the misunderstand romantic he's convinced Veronica he is, or the wolf in biker's clothing that her friends think he is? All will be revealed in the pages of BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST, so be sure to reserve your copy of this much-anticipated issue, drawn in an all-new realistic style that has everyone talking! SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan. ART: Steven Butler. PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to "Find Your Name in Print!"
On sale newsstand July 24, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69

JUGHEAD #183
"The Magic Touch": Jughead reveals his latest sweet skill – the ability to un-stuck/un-clog/un-jam anything with a well-placed…. well, see for yourself!
"The Ties that Bind": Jughead convinces Archie that time spent tying a tie is best spent bettering the world!
"Thrills & Spills": A slippery floor and a pot of beans – the typical recipe for an Archie pratfall, only you won't believe the pair that are falling this time! SCRIPTS: Craig Boldman. ART: Rex Lindsey.
On sale newsstand July 31, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

JUGHEAD & FRIENDS DIGEST #22
"Mission Improbable": With Jughead helping his mother man their booth at the bake sale, do the delicious desserts stand a chance? That's a chance Jughead's Mom would rather not take, so when she has to leave her post, its maximum security lockdown for the cake Jug's had his eyes on. But with a little help from one of Dilton's inventions, Jughead just may take the cake… literally! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Bill Galvan. PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to "Find Your Name in Print!"
On sale newsstand August 14, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49

PALS-N-GAL'S DOUBLE DIGEST #114
The spotlight is on the wonderful cast of Archie supporting characters, in this double digest featuring new stories and classic tales. SCRIPT & ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to "Find Your Name in Print!"
On sale newsstand August 14, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69

TALES FROM RIVERDALE DIGEST #22
PART ONE OF A TANTALIZING TALE OF INTRIGUE!
"Civil Chores Part One": It's a story that may just set the teens of Riverdale asunder! Archie goes on strike to protest the many chores/low allowance imbalance, and finds he has a lot of allies prepared to join him in his cause. But when Jughead realizes a raise for Archie means more dates with the girls and less time to hang with him, he forms an uneasy alliance with Riverdale's sneakiest and shiftiest. Will these monetary politics prove to be a triumph or tribulation for Riverdale's teens? The first part of a two-part story to be continued next issue. SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz. PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to "Find Your Name in Print!"
On sale newsstand July 31, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49

VERONICA #182
"The Dream Job(?)": Veronica gets a job interning at Trend Magazine for a very demanding boss reminiscent of a certain Prada-wearing film fatale! SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
"Madame President": Veronica dreams about becoming President… until Betty fills her in on the facts behind her fantasy! SCRIPT: Barbara and Samantha Slate. ART: Dan Parent.
On sale newsstand August 14, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

What's this? Fishing with Rosco?

Yes, you heard right, "Dukes of Hazzard" fans. Rosco P. Coltrane, aka James Best, is offering his time in a fishing vacation for "Dukes" fans at one of his favorite retreats in Ontario, Canada.

"The best fishing, the best view and the most relaxation available in all of Canada," Best's official site boasts of Dog Lake Resort. You can book your own spot in this special vacation time, coming up in just a few weeks, from July 22-30.

Dog Lake Resort's website reports that the beautiful oasis features walleye, small-mouth bass, northern lake trout, whitefish and splake -- along with wireless Internet (now that's a relief!). Their home page also features a nice shot of Best and his wife, Dorothy (is that a beagle she's holding? BRBTV loves beagles! And hey, while we're talkin' dogs, be sure to check out the video at Best's official site, shot at DukesFest, and see our buddy Rosco lovin' up to a Flash-like poochie).

Meanwhile, Best's "Dukes" costar and on-screen deputy, Enos Strate, aka Sonny Shroyer, is reportedly back in front of the camera. Our buddy Chad says he spoke with Shroyer the other evening, and that he's currently in Dillard, Georgia, working on the film "Opening Day."

BRBTV News Blog Blip: One of the directors of "Santa Barbara," Bill Glen, has died at the age of 74. Read more at ContactMusic.com.

Wolf Muser gets "Branded"

On "Santa Barbara" he was the debonair and heavily accented Marcello Armonti, the man who took better care of Sophia Capwell Armonti than we first realized! And now Wolf Muser, this faithful protector-of-contessas, has a new movie project in the works.

"Branded" is classified as in production and will also feature Nick Mancuso. The name of Muser's character in the film is Targonsky. The movie, which comes from Galt Alliance Films, is written and directed by Justin B. Rhodes. Filming is in Orlando, Florida.

Muser, who has kept up some well-scattered TV guest appearances in recent years, popped up this year on "Boston Legal" and "Criminal Minds." A few years back, he played Ramon Veloso on ABC's "Alias."

"Dallas" on, Hurley still dancing, and more ...

Various bits and pieces from around the web ...

- ContactMusic.com is quoting John Travolta as determined to see this "Dallas" movie project up and running. "I'm meeting with a director I won't name and I think they (producers) want to start in the New Year," he says. OK, Mr. Travolta ... we'll stand by ....

- John O'Hurley, meanwhile, our dapper Stephen Slade of "Santa Barbara" who went on to bigger and better things on "Seinfeld" and "Dancing With the Stars," is releasing a DVD celebrating the latter. BuddyTV.com reports that the "Dancing" Season 1 runner-up is releasing an instructional dance DVD with his partner, Charlotte Jørgensen.

- In the "Batman: The Animated Series" world, artist, writer and producer Bruce Timm has done a new interview on his project "Superman: Doomsday." You can listen to the three parts of it at VoicesFromKrypton.com.

Jordan Charney in "Anamorph"

Jordan Charney is a very familiar face in the world of television, and he's also a BRBTV triple-shot: He was Lieutenant Sutton and Detective Rollins in the early days of "Dallas," he was Bill Cochran on "Dynasty" in 1988, and he terrorized Kelly Capwell in the psychiatric facility as Dr. Renfro on "Santa Barbara." He's just done a whole lot of television over the years, beginning in the 1950s, including a whole heckin' lot of soap credits. And hey, we just saw him on an episode of "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" the other night.

These days, Charney's working on a new film project, "Anamorph," in which he's part of a very fine cast. Deborah Harry, for one -- that fabbo '70s pop-music star who's dabbled in quite a bit of acting over the years in-between sets with Blondie (she was certainly our "Candie's girl" way back when, in the shoe brand's first wave). Then there's Peter Stormare, so stunning as John Abruzzi in the first season of Fox's "Prison Boys" -- er, we mean, "Prison Break" (we cried when he died -- and why wouldn't we?). Add in some Willem Dafoe and hunky young Scott Speedman of "Underworld" and the WB's "Felicity," and you've got the makings for a great flick.

Written and directed by Henry Miller, this independent film was shooting last year in New York and is now classified as in postproduction, scheduled for release this year. The plotline from the IMDb: "A psychological thriller based on the concept of anamorphosis, a painting technique that manipulates the laws of perspective to create two competing images on a single canvas." Charney plays a review board chairman in the movie.

Miller co-wrote the script two and a half years ago while working as a security guard at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art, according to the indieLONDON website.

Archie welcomes a 10-year-old writer

MAMARONECK, NY -- Samantha Slate is Archie Comics newest writer, and certainly its youngest, at only 10 years old! She will be co-writing “Madame President.” The fun-filled story will appear in the pages of Veronica #182. Veronica dreams about becoming president … until Betty fills her in on the facts behind her fantasy! Samantha's writing partner on this project is none other then Archie Comics veteran Barbara Slate; who also happens to be Samantha's mother. Veronica #182 features the art of Dan Parent and is on the newsstand August 14. It's a 32-page, full-color comic for $2.25.

Elsewhere in Archie Comics ...

ARCHIE #576
“Arch and Crafts”: A lanyard making contest at the camp where Archie and his friends are counselors not only brings back memories of a mystery Archie faced as a young camper, but leads to its solution! SCRIPT: Angelo DeCesare. ART: Stan Goldberg. “The Fame Game”: When a beach movie production comes to Riverdale, the teens are called into service as extras, stand-ins and comic relief with a capital Jughead! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg. “The Wrong Goodbye”: Archie finally gets an invite to Veronica’s beach retreat, but with the send-off Betty gives him he might never arrive! SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale newsstand June 26, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

TALES FROM RIVERDALE DIGEST #21
“Out-Raj-ous Behavior”: Archie’s new friend Raj is an aspiring-Spielberg, complete with pose able models that he films for his special effects epics! SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz. PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and your chance to “Find Your Name in Print!”
On sale newsstand June 26, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49

JUGHEAD #182
“Chompin’ Champion”: It’s a story so big… about a burger-eating contest so huge… and an appetite so humungous… that it takes half an issue to tell the titanic, tasty tale! Don’t miss a single bite of this delicious delicacy! SCRIPT: Craig Boldman. ART: Rex Lindsey.
On sale newsstand July 3, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25

James talks about film, Caulfield hits the British stage

Thanks to the Ultimate Dynasty site for the tipoff on a couple news nuggets ... The BRBTV News Blog has told you about John James' new movie project, "Illegal Aliens," for which he also has a hand behind the scenes, as executive producer. ET Online recently quoted our own Jeff Colby of "Dynasty" and "The Colbys" talking about the film and the fact that the show must go on, beyond the death of the film's star, Anna Nicole Smith:

"At first sight, 'Illegal Aliens' appears to be just another low-budget sci-fi comedy poking fun at Hollywood’s big-budget flicks." he said. "Now with the passing of its star, you’ll find it replete with metaphors of her life. Anna invested in the production for her and her son and was involved in the creative aspects, adding numerous elements and rewrites for her character."

The film was released on DVD in May.

James' onscreen Colby rival, meanwhile, is taking to the stage in Britain. He's taken over the role of Billy Flynn in "Chicago," making his British stage debut. The show runs through the end of this month.

This isn't Caulfield's overall stage debut, though; he's done some roles on this side of the pond. And he's Scottish-born, by the way. Read a Q&A session with him at Theatre.com.

Read more about his role in "Chicago" at these links (and see cute photos):
http://www.theatermania.com/content/news.cfm/story/10795
http://www.theatre.com/story/id/3007396
http://broadwayworld.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=18538

"Dukes" museum is progressing

Like a blazin'-orange beacon shining in the sun, in a few years this "Dukes of Hazzard" museum will be leading "Dukes" fans from all over to a great assortment of memorabilia. Paul Harrington of the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club has been working on the building for his museum for a few years already, and he offers us this update on his progress. As these photos show, it is, indeed, coming along!

"Lance and I were outside most of today and painted the south wall of the building," he reported yesterday. "It does look a lot better, ORANGE than the rustic look, lol."

The building, at Paul's home in Ruscom Station, Ontario, is 56 feet long and 40 feet wide, with walls that are 20 feet high. The roof peaks are over 27 feet. "I hope by August, the east wall will be completed," he notes.

Photos courtesy of Paul Harrington

Yeeeeee-haaaaaaaaaaaaa!

More on Richard Eden's movie projects ...

Last week we told you about two new movie roles for Richard Eden, our own Brick Wallace of "Santa Barbara," one of which has him writing and producing ... Well, BRBTV caught up with Eden via phone from his West Coast home over the weekend, and he was able to tell us some more ...

“It’s loosely based on some real facts of a story that happened in northern California," Eden says of "The Intervention." "It’s a supernatural thriller. It’s in the editing stage right now and going into the final editing for the next few weeks. It will be out there sometime in the next three or four months. It’s going to be submitted to the Sundance Film Festival.”

He estimates Halloween-time for the release of the film, which he worked on with his wife of 17 years, Shannon Hile. “That’s her company.” He also jokes, “And I was directed by my wife in this film – can you imagine? I don’t know how we made it through. It was almost a blood bath, but we made it through.”

On the second film project we reported on last week: “'Disappearing in America' just happens to be a film that I’m acting in. It’s still in postproduction. I imagine it’s probably going to be hitting the film festivals. Mark Pellegrino, who played in the film 'Capote,' it’s him and me in this film. It’s very much an independent film. I play a guy who tries to help and harbor ex-IRA soldiers in America. It’s sort of a witness protection program, an organization that protects IRA soldiers. One guy they try to help out, it doesn’t work out well for him.”

Eden also tells us about a third current project, the film "Callback," which he describes as a “dark comedy about a B-movie actor who’s trying to get a callback for a bad horror film. He starts acting out the role.” You can see the trailer for the film, featuring a frenzied and looking-great Richard Eden, at the film's official site.

So what's in the near future for Eden? “I’ve been more behind-the-scenes recently," he says. "I’ve been more or less involved in the independent film world. I’ve made myself available. I like to see new filmmakers hopefully benefit from somebody who’s committed to the project and experienced. I’ve sorta loaned out my services. Now that I’ve been doing the generous route, I think I’ll go back to television and film.”

Look for more from this interview with Richard Eden in an upcoming update of BRBTV's reference book, "Send Me to Santa Barbara."