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 ...


Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Has the love bug bitten Reggie and Cheryl?

No, this is not a Halloween prank! And if you're an Archie Comics fan, you might wonder if you read that headline right! And ... while BRBTV usually lets the Archie Comics press releases percolate a while, because they send 'em out so far in advance of when the comics actually hit the stores, we had to make an exception in this case. We had to roll this one right out to the front of the line. Because anytime you're talking Cheryl Blossom, BRB sits up and takes notice! We're marvo fans of the luscious redhead! So here goes ...

From Archie Comics

MAMARONECK , NY – Archie Comics and the idea of “romantic entanglements” have been synonymous for nearly 70 years. Our readers are interested in seeing how we can shake things up with various romantic pairings, and over the years our writers have obliged, leading to such milestone tales as the “Love Showdown” saga examining the eternal love triangle between Archie, Betty and Veronica, Ethel’s relentless pursuit of Jughead, Riverdale’s perennial couples Moose and Midge and Chuck and Nancy, and even a very poignant encounter … and quite romantic kiss … between Betty and Reggie!

Now, it appears a new pair of lovebirds are hovering on the horizon: Reggie and Cheryl!

The seeds of the relationship were sown the previous month in “Love Can Be Nasty,” a tantalizing tale from BETTY & VERONICA #180. In that story, Cheryl and Reggie formed an alliance – she to figure out how to date Archie without competition from Betty and Veronica; he to date Betty and Veronica without competition from Archie.

Well, in “Be My Valentine … or Else!” from BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #181, their scheming continues, or so it seems … Could it be possible that Cheryl and Reggie really DO want to attend the Valentine’s Day parade together? Not according to Archie, Betty and Veronica, who are convinced the duo are just using one another. But Cupid may have something else in mind! Is this the beginning of a new, bona-fide Archie Comics couple or merely a fleeting fancy? There’s only one way to find out – be sure to reserve your copy today!

BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #181
“Be My Valentine … or Else!”
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
PLUS: Other new and classic tales, including the “animated” Sabrina!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
Shipping date: January 16, 2008
On sale at comic specialty shops: January 23, 2008
On sale on newsstands: February 5, 2008
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

BRBTV News Blog note: Yes, we know ... boo-hoo-hoo, February is a heckuva long time to wait! But hey, in the world of romance, anticipation is everything! But Mr. Silberkleit, we can't believe you didn't put Cheryl on the cover of this one! Don't ya know that'll sell more issues! We know, just from how many search strings of "Cheryl Blossom" bring folks to this very blog!

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Grant Goodeve in "The Spy and the Sparrow"

Grant Goodeve is difficult to forget as elder bro David Bradford on the 1970s "Eight is Enough." But us fans of "Dynasty" remember him as Chris Deegan in the 1983 season. Now Goodeve is working on "The Spy and the Sparrow." He plays Agent Kruch in the drama, directed by Garrett Bennett and written by Steve Edmiston.

Find out a little more about the film from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Fans of "Batman: The Animated Series" and its various animated descendants, you'll want to check out this quickie interview with voice director Andrea Romano:
http://www.voicesfromkrypton.com/2007/10/exclusive-inter.html

Monday, October 29, 2007

Susan Lucci does Super Soap Weekend, and other "Dallas" tidbits

Our gal Susan Lucci, that luscious but sinister Hillary Taylor / Sheila Foley of the latter part of the "Dallas" run, is out and about again in a couple weeks. She'll appear at the Super Soap Weekend and Breakfast at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

"For those of you that haven't had a chance to attend in previous years," her official website says, "this is an excellent opportunity to spend time with Susan, and other Chat Club Members that have been attending this event for years."

The Super Soap Weekend is November 10-11, 2007, and the Susan Lucci Chat Club Breakfast is Friday, November 9, 2007. The location is the Brown Derby Restaurant - Disney MGM Studios @ Walt Disney World Resort. Tickets are $95 (with the proceeds going to Little Flower Children's Services of New York) but -- alas -- they're sold out!

Elsewhere in the "Dallas" world, meanwhile, there is an update on the long-awaited and ever-changing big-screen remake film. James Brolin and Diane Ladd are the latest names to be attached to the project, according to PR-Inside.com. They'll apparently play Jock and Miss Ellie (we're sure you know which is which). Though it's an improvement over Shirley MacLaine as Ellie, it's certainly not an improvement over the remarkable Sam Elliott as Jock! But Brolin could be sufficiently gruffy, we suppose ...

Friday, October 26, 2007

For John Schneider, that "Nip/Tuck" is quite true to life

Ahhhhh .... full disclosure, now that's what we like. John Schneider has gone on record, alongside his appearance on the f/X plastic-surgery drama "Nip/Tuck," to admit he's gone under the knife, himself.

Schneider told celeb news show "Extra" that he underwent liposuction a couple years ago when the situps just weren't working for him. Though it got the results he was looking for, he says the procedure hurt.

Schneider will do several episodes of "Nip/Tuck," and he'll play (intake of breath here -- this is a departure for our own Bo Duke) a porn producer. His character name? Ram. ... Ummmm-kay!

The IMDb says he appeared in an October episode of the show, but Kansas City's Channel 5 says his episodes are not scheduled to begin until later next month.

Meanwhile, in other John Schneider news (and it does tend to be rather abundant, you understand), the actor is queued up to sing the national anthem before the Pep Boys Auto 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway on October 28 (otherwise known as Sunday). So appropriate for Schneider, who's a racer himself! Read more at RacingMilestones.com.

And hey, that's not all! We wouldn't be a bit surprised if John-John uses the opportunity this weekend at this particular Atlanta venue to mention another oh-so slightly big event coming up at that same particular Atlanta venue next summer ... If you have no idea what we're hintin' at, then we'll just tell ya ... Schneider and his wife, Elly, have gone public and official with the long-rumored new management of the wildly popular DukesFest event. In fact, they've even launched a brand-spankin'-new website for it, DukesFest.com. Scott Romine of the Confederate General Lee Fan Club site is doin' the webmasterin', while avid "Dukes" fan JETT is coordinating the guest cars for the annual event. And expect a big cast turnout this year, too, as the event moves here to the state where the show originated! We're excited! We have a feeling the guest couches at the BRBTV corporate headquarters will be in use!

BRBTV News Blog Blip (it's a great news day): Can you believe Todd McKee is coming back to daytime soaps? Our own handsome original Ted Capwell of "Santa Barbara," such a young'un when the show launched back in 1984, will return to the role he originated, Jake Maclaine, on CBS' "The Bold and the Beautiful." It happens on November 14 for the actor, who played that role on "B&B" from 1990 to 1993. See the feature story on Soaps.com.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Catherine Oxenberg in "Starship Troopers: Marauder"

Next up for our lovely original Amanda Carrington of "Dynasty," Ms. Catherine Oxenberg, is yet another project with her husband, Casper Van Dien: "Starship Troopers: Marauder." Oxenberg's role is small in this one, but she joins a nice cast that includes Jolene Blalock, the reluctantly sultry Sub-Commander T'Pol of "Star Trek: Enterprise." Amanda Donohoe also stars.

The film, written and directed by Edward Neumeier, is the third installment in the "Starship Troopers" franchise that began in 1997.

Catch another little tidbit about the film here:
http://www.moviehole.net/news/20070619_starship_troopers_report_for_d.html

Plus you can grab some fun news and interviews, along with cast photos, at this fan site:
http://www.starshiptroopers3.net/

BRBTV News Blog Blip: In the "Batman: The Animated Series" realm, meanwhile, the voice of our beloved Harley Quinn, Arleen Sorkin, lost her father last week. Irving Sorkin, 88, was a dentist who had Hollywood dreams -- and made them come true. Learn more in this story from the L.A. Times.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Polish up that Halloween costume for Archie Comics

"Halloween is fun for both the young and young at heart," the press release from Archie Comics says. "We would really like to see how creative our fans are so; we’ve decided to hold a Halloween Costume Contest."

Kids of all ages, all you need to do to join in the fun:

- Get your costume together (for you and/or your pet)
- Take a picture. Yes, you can enter more than once!
- Email it as an attachment to blogphotos@archiecomics.com
- Be sure to put the words “Costume Contest” in the subject line!

All photos will be put up on ArchieComics.com on Halloween Day. The voting will begin on Thursday, November 1. There will be no first round eliminations -- all entries will be placed on the Archie Comics website for voting, as long as they are suitable for the entire family.

The winner will receive a very cool prize: an original drawing of him- or herself with Archie Comics characters, drawn in costume based on the photo submitted. This one-of-a-kind collectible will be drawn by artists here at Archie Comics. (OK, guess now BRB really HAS to get that Cheryl Blossom costume together!)

We’ve never offered a prize like this before, so get your friends and neighbors together and tell them to vote for YOU! Voting will end at midnight, Saturday, November 17.

Coming up in Archie Comics ....


ARCHIE #579
"Phone-y Problem": With yet another of his speeches interrupted by ringing, Mr. Weatherbee declares a ban on students’ cell phones! Is the ban a good "call," or is the Bee just dialing a "wrong number?!" SCRIPT: Angelo DeCesare. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Take Your Time": Archie struggles to figure out the difference between real time and "Veronica time!" SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Double Trouble": A visit with a senior gives Archie a peek into his popular future – Archie’s retired friend has two girlfriends, too! Not only that, once again he’s double-booked dates with the duo! SCRIPT: Barbara Slate. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale newsstand October 23, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.


ARCHIE DIGEST #239
"That Old Buggy": In this poignant tale, Archie’s grandpa Artie comes to town to see the classic Model T Mr. Lodge is restoring. This leads to an adventurous and funny trip down memory lane, with a surprise twist ending that could only happen in Riverdale! SCRIPT AND ART: Pat Kennedy.
On sale newsstand November 20, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.


ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #183
"High-Scoring Hijinks": Raj Patel takes Archie, Jughead, Betty and Veronica on a trip to India to visit his uncle's video game company! Will Archie's ever-prominent clumsiness lead to a premature "game over" for the tour, or could it possibly inspire the 3-D animators to come up with a brand-new game? It's a "high score" of an issue you won't want to miss! SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups.
On sale newsstand October 30, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

BETTY #169
"In the Mood": Lamenting the lack of an atmospheric restaurant that teens can afford, Betty suggests Pop Tate make a few "romantic" changes. SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Why oh Why?": Betty asks the question, "Why do I love Archie?" The question is, what's her answer? SCRIPT: Barbara Slate. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Just an Ordinary Day": Betty has just had one of those days… which is why she's having so much trouble entering it in her diary! SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale newsstand November 6, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.


BETTY & VERONICA #231
"The Shoppers": Veronica thinks she's gotten around the hectic shopping season by staying at home and shopping online, until she remembers a gift she forgot… on Christmas Eve, of course! SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Jeff Shultz.
"Are You Sure?": Here it is, the story that proves once and for all that Archie is the man of Betty and Veronica's dreams - literally! SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Jeff Shultz.
"Santa Shortage": A Christmas party for needy kids without a Santa Claus? Better find a replacement… or two… or three… quick! SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Jeff Shultz.
On sale newsstand November 20, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.


BETTY & VERONICA SPECTACULAR #80
"’Tis the Season for Extreme Decorating": A contest for the "most inspiring holiday display" inevitably inspires Veronica to break out all the bells and whistles… and lights… and ornaments… and tinsel… and you get the idea! When compared to more tasteful displays, it looks like Veronica’s over-the-top extravaganza may only inspire a high power bill… but little does Veronica suspect it could actually lead to a very personal holiday miracle, too! SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
On sale newsstand November 13, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.


BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #179
"Westward, Huh?": Yee-ha! Mr. Lodge sends Betty and Veronica to visit famed western writer Charlie Chuck’s ranch in hopes that it will break him out of his writer’s block. The girls soon learn of a series of strange accidents that have unnerved Charlie and his clan, but what’s more mysterious is the question of who is behind the mishaps… and more mysterious still is the answer to the question of who will save our heroes? Saddle up your horse and don’t miss the bronco-busting fun! SCRIPT AND ART: Pat Kennedy.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale newsstand November 13, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.


HOLIDAY FUN DIGEST #12
'Tis the season to be jolly as Archie and his friends celebrate in true holiday style! Archie and crew have long displayed their holiday spirit, and now through the magic of this digest series, many of the Christmas classics of old are re-presented along with new yuletide tales. It's a stocking-full of good holiday cheer you won't want to miss!
"Archie’s Holiday Scrapbook": Relive the cherished holiday memories of Archie and his friends as you pour through their festive "scrapbook" filled with their first Christmas photos and other memorabilia they’ve collected through the years. Along the way, you’ll witness many firsts: Archie’s discovery of mistletoe, Betty & Veronica’s first gift-shopping sprees, Jughead’s first holiday buffet and Reggie’s first mirror! It’s an old-fashioned Christmas you’ll be delighted to celebrate! SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
PLUS: Classic yuletide tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various.
On sale newsstand October 23, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.


JUGHEAD #185
"All I Can Stand": The gift of a sentry’s hat goes to Jughead’s head – literally and figuratively!
"Panic on the 13th Floor!": Guess who panics when Jughead gets stuck in a stalled elevator with three glamorous models?!
"The Suspenders is Killin’ Me": Jughead decides to become a "snappy" dresser – with his own pair of flexible suspenders! SCRIPTS: Craig Boldman. ART: Rex Lindsey.
On sale newsstand October 23, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.


JUGHEAD & FRIENDS DIGEST #24
"Chick Magnet": When Jughead’s mom buys him cologne "engineered to drive the girls crazy," all the girls in town find Jughead "odorable!" It’s going to take a whole lot more than common "scents" to shake the marauding maidens! SCRIPT AND ART: Bill Galvan.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups.
On sale newsstand November 6, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.


JUGHEAD’S DOUBLE DIGEST #135
"The Gift": Seeking the perfect gift for his sister Jellybean, Jughead turns to Ethel for advice… and before all is said and done, Jellybean, Jughead AND Ethel all benefit from the gift of "giving!" SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Pat Kennedy.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups.
On sale newsstand November 13, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.


PALS-N-GALS DOUBLE DIGEST #116
"Relax a Bit": Rah rah, sis boom bah! Nancy takes the spotlight when Riverdale’s cheerleaders travel to Manhattan for a big competition. But her fellow squad members have little to cheer about when she puts them on a strictly timed regiment! SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups.
On sale newsstand November 6, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.


SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH #89
"Shattered Lives": It's a bold new direction for Sabrina, just as her life is shattered into a million pieces! Her long time love has had his memories wiped due to her mistake. Tensions are on the rise with her friends and family. The "Four Blades" organization's plan to overthrow the corrupt magic Queen is progressing quicker than anyone expects. Sabrina is devastated by infighting and sabotaged by a traitor. But her seemingly never-ending magical abilities keep improving, making her possibly one of the most powerful magicians ever... and a target of some of the nastiest beings in the Magic Realm! As if that weren't enough, her cat Salem is going out on more dates than
Sabrina! How long before real magic is back in Sabrina's life? SCRIPT: Tania Del Rio. ART: Tania Del Rio & Jim Amash. Life's an illusion cover by Tania del Rio (pencils) & Jim Amash (inks)!
On sale newsstand November 13, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.


TALES FROM RIVERDALE DIGEST #24
IT’S A STORY SO HUGE, IT TAKES AN ADDITIONAL ISSUE TO COMPLETE!
"Civil Chores Part Three": Yes, you read that right – Part Three! Originally conceived as a two-issue tale, the ramifications grew so epic that a third part was inevitable! The last two issues have turned Riverdale upside down, with half the town’s kids on strike for a better allowance, and the other half opposing them! Of course, the "nays" all have ulterior motives of their own. Now the mysterious figure who claimed they could stop the fighting will be revealed… but will Archie and Jughead’s friendship be forever affected? It’s another issue chock-full of guest-stars from Archie Comics’ past and present, and you can’t afford to miss it! SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales! SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents. BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale newsstand October 23, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.


VERONICA #184
"Stuck in the ‘70s": A glimpse of her parent’s home movies gives Veronica a taste of the 1970s, and before you know it, she’s dreaming of life in the days of disco and pay phones… but can she do without all her modern conveniences? SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
"Picture This": Everything is less than "picture-perfect" at Riverdale High when the students decide to protest their poorly-shot ID card photos! SCRIPT: Bill Golliher. ART: Dan Parent.
"Muscle Main Man": Veronica’s date has huge muscles… and an ego to match! SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Dan Parent.
On sale newsstand October 30, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Charlene Tilton gets new movie gig; "Dukes" gets new DVDs

The U.K. Press Association reports that our "Dallas" honey Charlene Tilton will be appearing in the new film "Point of Entry." It's a TV movie and labeled a "drama thriller." Tilton will play a character named Helen in the film, which also features Patrick Muldoon and Richard Roundtree.

It's directed by Stephen Bridgewater and written by Nathan Atkins. Read more here and on the movie's IMDb page.

In the "Dukes of Hazzard" world, meanwhile, TVShowsonDVD is reporting that Warner Bros. is planning to release the two postseries reunion movies on DVD next year. "Reliable sources" have told them that 1997's "The Dukes of Hazzard: Reunion!" and 2000's "The Dukes of Hazzard: Hazzard in Hollywood" will be released next summer by Warner Home Video. The TV movies will likely be packaged as one set, these sources say.

Speculation remains on the possible DVD release of "Dukes" spinoffs "Enos" and "The Dukes" animated series that featured Coy and Vance in its first season.

Monday, October 22, 2007

Mark Arnold: From "Phoenix Lights" to "Deadly Sins"

Mark Arnold had some heavy shoes to fill on "Santa Barbara" (at least in our opinion -- we loved Dane Witherspoon!). In 1984, he had to take over as the second Joe Perkins, one half of the desperately-in-love, hot young couple of this then-fledgling daytime soap. And hey, he did what he could (read: we missed Witherspoon!). But what's Mark Arnold up to nowadays?

Quite a few projects, it turns out. Arnold has taken breaks from acting here and there over the years, but he's got some good stuff going on. In "Phoenix Lights: The Movie," for instance, which is currently filming and scheduled for release next year, he plays a character named Dr. Katz. It's directed by Ajax McKenzie and written by Lorri Amsden and Dave Gist.

"Fast Girl" also stars Caroline Rhea of ABC's "Sabrina the Teenage Witch." Arnold is a team scout in this one. It's a family film directed by Daniel Zirilli and written by D. Glase Lomond and Aaron Harvey, releasing this year.

"Deadly Sins" is written by, directed by and starring Gregory Christian. Arnold plays Moroni. Christian's own summary of the film: "Welcome to Little Italy, a mystical land where Gypsies coexist with Mobsters in a congenial infelicity that riddles the streets. Meet Michael Mancini: The Don's favorite nephew, his lovely but barren wife and the lengths they will go to on their climb to the top. Let the games begin." Anne Lockhart also stars.

And finally, Arnold appears in next year's "Jack Rio." The plotline from the IMDb: "Following the dark journey of a famed TV star trying to get out the the shadow of his onscreen persona, while a serial killer runs rampant throughout the city of Los Angeles." Sean Kanan of ABC's "General Hospital" also stars.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: We have a date for the next "Dallas" DVD set. Pamela, administrator at the Ultimate Dallas site, reports that February 12, 2008 is the date.

Friday, October 19, 2007

Dukes Cruise: Tom Sarmento



The fifth and final part of a full week's worth of coverage of the 2007 Hillbilly Woodstick 2 Dukes of Hazzard Cruise, which culminated this past weekend in Covington, Georgia ...

Whew-weeeee, it's been a great week on the BRBTV News Blog, reporting on last week's Dukes Cruise. And of all the fun celebs and interesting "Dukes of Hazzard" stories we've talked about here on the blog, there's a reason we had to leave the show's lead mechanic Tom Sarmento for last. Actually, make that two reasons. The first reason is that Tom Sarmento hereby earns the award we bestow on a celebrity guest for every event we attend and cover, the Most Congenial in Show Award. (Though Byron Cherry was such a strong contender this time around, he did just win the award in August for the Hair Dare Dukes Days!) And the second reason? Well, the second reason is that we just had to give Tom the Friday slot and the long weekend runtime because we just have to know the answer to one simple question.

On which dad-gum episode were the barrels of molasses????????????????

It's a bit of an inside joke, you see, springing from the Friday autograph session with the star guests, and we're more than happy to let you in on it. BRB got Tom a-talkin', askin' him which "Dukes" episode he remembered the most, or which one he had a funny reminiscing for. He began to tell us about an episode where everything seemed to go wrong, though he couldn't remember the title of that episode! All he remembered is that it was probably either right before or right after the Coy and Vance time (but not during) and that it involved some wayward barrels of molasses.

"You knew that was going to be a bad episode right away," he mused. A truck of molasses was brought in the night before filming and parked at what was thought to be a good place. But, he said, the truck moved from its position during the night and the molasses spilled all over the place.

Then the cows came from the nearby hillside.

"And where there's cows, there's cow pies!" he laughed. He said the mess destroyed a couple million bucks worth of equipment, including two Panavision cameras. An expensive episode, to say the least.

But the question remains ... just which episode was it? What was the scenario for which this sticky prop was used? A typical cop chase, mayhaps? We racked our brains. "Dukes" fans, we're relying on you. Meanwhile ....



"This brings back memories," Sarmento said as he paged through BRB's "Them Dukes! Them Dukes!" Sarmento turned in seven good years on "The Dukes," making sure things went as smoothly as possible with the show's vehicles.

"We did a lot of stuff," he told the group gathered for the Friday afternoon talk at the Super 8 Motel in Covington. "We did a lot of changes, etc. We had like 317 of those Chargers; we had over a thousand of those police cars."

He continued, "All these guys that we had on the show -- they're all directors, production coordinators now." Stunt guru Paul Baxley, father of stunt coordinator Craig Baxley and uncle of fellow stunt coordinator, Gary Baxley, was instrumental in that, he said. "The man made people's careers. A lot of people didn't like Paul, but he made the show what it came to be."

Sarmento represented the Hazzard County Stunt Team at this event. You've seen these guys and their daring deeds at DukesFest and other events. When Sarmento settled into the antiques mall on Friday with the Stunt Team's display, he showed BRB the particular General Lee he had with him -- the General Lee used in the reunion jump in Covington a couple years ago.



He says that after the jump the car needed a whole new front end, but the rest pretty much stayed the same. In addition to this blazin' orange beauty, the Stunt Team's display included lots of Hazzard County goodies: T-shirts, decals, lanyards, hats and beautiful 8-by-10 color photos of various "Dukes" jumps.

For his kindness and cordiality during the event, Sarmento earns BRBTV's Most Congenial in Show Award for the Hillbilly Woodstick 2 Dukes of Hazzard Cruise. But we still wanna hear which episode had the molasses!


Photos by Billie Rae Bates / BRBTV