Subtract one General Lee, add a little cash and a commercial or two

It certainly was John Schneider's weekend. Not only did our own Bo Duke unload his beloved General Lee for a cool near-half-mil at the Barrett-Jackson auto auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, his new Zaxby's TV commercials launched. There he was on one channel, jumping on the trunk lid and singing the "Dukes of Hazzard" theme song. There he was on another channel, on our break from "Disclosure" starring Michael Douglas and Demi Moore (do ya get Peachtree TV? probably not, but it's kinda fun), smiling his million-dollar smile and saying "Hi, I'm John Schneider and I'm an actor!" Yea, John-John, as if we didn't know!

If you haven't seen the Zaxby's ads, you can watch them online (special nod to the All-John blog for the tip-off):
http://www.zaxbys.com/zaxtv.html

And of course, as per usual, Schneider's not the only "Dukes" cast member out and about. Special thanks to Dustin Edsall of Michigan, who sent us this shot of himself and Mr. Ben Jones, known as that ole Cooter, at the World of Wheels event in Grand Rapids a little over a week ago. Fun!

Christopher Coffey just has teaching in his genes, evidently

You may recall, in the early years of "Dallas," that our little gal Lucy Ewing attended college. Her granddaddy Jock's alma mater, it was -- Southern Methodist University. And at that fine institution of higher learning, Lucy developed a fascination with her professor, Greg Forrester.

Christopher Coffey was appropriately cast as Forrester, because now, years later, guess what he's doing? He's teaching! BRBTV connected with Coffey while researching the print edition of "Destination: Dallas," and you can read our interview with him there (see last Friday's post). But we also like to keep up with what he's doing from time to time, in his role as a successful behavioral coach and workshop leader.

Coming up on Coffey's agenda are some March workshops on the UCLA campus. Specifically, he's teaching "Leadership Styles for Influencing Others" and "Coaching: Help Successful People Get Better." You can learn more about Coffey and his UCLA courses here:
http://www.christophercoffey.com/html/leadership.htm
http://www.uclaextension.edu/index.cfm?href=/departmentalpages/index.cfm&department=/shortcourses/management/index.cfm

Pretty good stuff. We wish him well.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: John Schneider, our own Bo Duke of "The Dukes of Hazzard," will do some promotional work for the Athens, Georgia-based Zaxby's restaurant chain. You can read more about it at FastCasual.com. Ironically, one of the other celebrities who'll be doing the Zaxby's campaign, "American Idol" Season Three runner-up Diana DeGarmo, is from Snellville, Georgia, the city Schneider originally claimed he was from ("Snail-ville," he said with a drawl) when he auditioned for the role of Bo as a young'un.

Ian Abercrombie in "Bentley and Max"

We reported last July that our faithful Capwell butler, Phillip, of "Santa Barbara," had defected to the Dark Side -- to the "Star Wars" realm. Well, it looks like Ian Abercrombie's new series has been postponed to this coming fall or the next fall. In the meantime, though, Abercrombie has been working on another project.

Now, you've gotta love "Bentley and Max," not only because it features Abercrombie, but also because it's set in the comic-book convention circuit. Could anything be funner? It also will feature Deborah Van Valkenburgh of the old "Too Close for Comfort" sitcom (when's the last time you've seen her? BRBTV did have the opportunity to meet her on-screen sis, the very gracious Lydia Cornell, at the Motor City Comic Con; see our May 26, 2006 post).

Written and directed by Michael Allen Angel, "Bentley and Max" is a comedy that's filming in Las Vegas. The plotline, from the IMDb: "Set against the world of comic book conventions and traveling from West Hollywood to Sin City to the Big Apple and back again, BENTLEY AND MAX follows that rocky road to romance where insecurities become tall buildings, faith becomes more powerful than any locomotive, and love is the ultimate speeding bullet."

The movie is scheduled for release this year.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Warner Bros. has issued the official word on the next DVD installment in the "Dallas" series. TVShowsonDVD has the goods.

"Dukes" items abound on eBay

Need to find the perfect gift for that "Dukes of Hazzard" fan in your life? Have we got a deal for you! (At least, the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club has a deal for you!) Occasionally we're happy to highlight items for sale on eBay related to the shows covered by BRBTV. Today, we turn our attention to a bevy of goodies listed under the seller name canadian--dukes ...

- Catherine Bach, aka DAISY DUKE, on a DAISY PRINT 11" by 17" laminated signed by Catherine Bach and also signed by the artist, Matt Busch (go, Matt! he's so talented, and he's a friend of BRB!).

- Jerry Rushing, aka ACE PARKER, on a Dukes of Hazzard watch.

- Jack Gordon, aka HONEST JOHN LEDBETTER, on a Dukes of Hazzard watch.

- Ben Jones, aka COOTER DAVENPORT, signed Sperryville, Virginia, DukesFest 2001 VW Matchbox van.

To see all of this seller's items:
http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZcanadian--dukes

Plus, the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club also has a few other autographed items that are not on eBay:

-Don Pedro Colley, aka SHERIFF LITTLE, on a Hair Dare Dukes Weekend Car Show & Swap Meet 2007 for cancer research event T-shirt

- Paul Casey, the ELVIS impersonator in Las Vegas on a Hair Dare Dukes Weekend Car Show & Swap Meet 2007 for cancer research event T-shirt

- Billie Rae Bates (who's that? oh, author of THEM DUKES! THEM DUKES!) on a few of her books that she signed for during Hair Dare Dukes Weekend Car Show & Swap Meet 2007 for Cancer research.

To contact the seller directly for the non-eBay items, email cdndukes@mnsi.net.

Meanwhile, elsewhere on eBay ... we just had to mention this cute little T-shirt, in honor of our beloved "Dynasty." You don't see 'em too often. This auction ends in a few days:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Dynasty-80s-tv-soap-opera-retro-t-shirt_W0QQitemZ300190055849QQcmdZViewItem?IMSfp=TL0801130938a14623

If you've got some fun eBay stuff celebrating these classic TV shows that you'd like to let folks know about, we welcome your email.

"Batman: Gotham Knight" follows Warner Bros.' animated feature trend

Bruce Timm and Alan Burnett, two of the creative forces behind our beloved "Batman: The Animated Series" and its varous offshoots, have done it again. "Batman: Gotham Knight" is an anthology of anime-inspired shorts revolving around our Caped Crusader, coming straight to DVD. Burnett is writing, and Timm is directing.

ComicBookMovie.com has more:
http://www.comicbookmovie.com/news/articles/4198.asp

And there's a discussion about the DVD on Forumopolis:
http://www.forumopolis.com/showthread.php?t=66177

The DVD is scheduled for 2008 release, according to its IMDb page.

Also in the world of animation for DC / Warner Bros., the straight-to-DVD feature "Wonder Woman" could be close to securing its star voice. TV Guide's Michael Ausiello reports that Keri Russell is in advanced talks for the title role. Well, we did enjoy "Felicity" (we were always partial to buddy Amy Jo Johnson -- Pink Ranger rocks!!!!). The "WW" feature is said to be, of course, in the same vein as not only the aforementioned "Batman: Gotham Knight" but also the "Justice League: New Frontier" and "Superman: Doomsday" feature movies mentioned in earlier posts of this blog.

It makes every bit of sense that now is the time Warner Bros. would be doing an animated feature on the fabbo Amazon princess -- they are planning a live-action feature, after all. Of course, they've been planning that live-action feature for quite a while, and this is a role that could really make a budding actress' career. Let's at least hope this animated feature signals that the awaited live-action one is getting closer to the big screen.

Boy, oh, boy, we'll tell ya one thang ... we are ALL OVER that merchandise, when it hits! Target and Wal-Mart workers, steer clear ...

Linda Gray and Charlene Tilton take Dublin by storm

Run, don't walk, over to:
http://www.independent.ie/entertainment/tv-radio/you-can-take-the-girls-out-of-dallas-1265138.html
There you'll find some fresh photos of two of our lovely ladies of "Dallas." Linda Gray (Sue Ellen Ewing) and Charlene Tilton (Lucy Ewing) are profiled by the Dublin Independent, in town to celebrate the six-month anniversary of the opening of Newbridge Silverware's Museum of Style Icons.

"It was a magical time," Gray says of her time on our beloved show. "I wasn't a young starlet, though, so I got to see it as an adult."

"I was quite focused back then, to be honest," Tilton says of her "Dallas" days. "In fact, if anything I'm wilder now. And I have to tell you, it's not so pretty."

Also in the "Dallas" realm, the Minneapolis / St. Paul City Pages offers an interesting commentary on the upcoming "Dallas" big-screen treatment:
http://blogs.citypages.com/blotter/2008/01/breakfast_of_ch_47.php

Announcing the print edition of "Destination: Dallas"

Ahhhh, what a long, wonderful road it's been, developing the BRBTV realm of classic '80s TV show websites into a set of reference books and shortie reports ... "Destination: Dallas," celebrating all that is Ewing, was actually the first of the websites to be built within BRBTV, and now it's the third BRBTV fact book to hit the hot presses.

Brand-new on Amazon, BookSurge, Target.com and other e-tailers:

The new print edition of Book 2 of the BRBTV fact book series

Destination: Dallas

"Destination: Dallas" is the largest of the three print books of the BRBTV series, with 314 whopping pages. Its detailed cast list, character guide, episode guide and all sorts of "fun and useless" information about the show and its stars make it a must for anyone who can't get enough of J.R. Ewing. Plus, "Destination: Dallas" includes an expanded celeb interview section. You'll read about how Sasha Mitchell, Audrey Landers and other cast members have lived in the "Dallas" lore since the show went off the air and what they're doing now.

"Destination: Dallas" is available for $18.99 retail at:
Amazon
Target.com
BookSurge.com
And other e-tailers ...

You can also order a signed copy directly from BRB on the BRBTV 10th Anniversary page.

Learn more about "Destination: Dallas" at BRBTV's official press release:

http://www.pressbox.co.uk/detailed/Entertainment/Author_releases_reference_guide_to_TV_s_Dallas__165221.html
http://www.prlog.org/10044676-author-releases-reference-guide-to-tv-dallas.html

Michael Praed, Simon MacCorkindale take to the stage in Windsor

So where on earth has that Michael Praed been, anyway? Our own Prince Michael of Moldavia of "Dynasty" does have something new brewing. He's performing in the play "Sleuth" in Windsor, Ontario, later this month.

Praed's role is Milo Tindle, the lover of the main character's life (you may recall the movie version of "Sleuth" with Michael Caine in this role).

"TV opened a lot of doors for me," says Praed in the Bucks Free Press. "I really do look back on those years with fondness."

The play also stars Simon MacCorkindale (he's the guy at odds with Praed's character!), known to us "Dynasty" fans as Billy Dawson and us "Dukes of Hazzard" fans as Gaylord Duke in the episode "The Duke of Duke."

Find out more about this production of "Sleuth" at the Theatre Royal Windsor's site.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: "The Dukes of Hazzard" makes a showing in a quiz on '80s television at Honolulu's KITV.com. Test your knowledge and take the quiz (the "Dukes" question is easy, of course, but what about the others?): http://www.kitv.com/sh/quizine/833403/index.html

"Dukes" museum gets its floor joists

The "Dukes of Hazzard" museum in Ontario, Canada, continues to take shape. And winter weather is sure not a deterrent for this fine project ...

"We now have 12' feet of floor joists up, and another 8' to go to complete only half of the 40' feet for the overall floor space," says Paul Harrington of the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club, who owns the property. "This section is 20' by 24' ."

Paul jokes that in the photo below, he's having his "first cup of tea up in the 'Dukes' room, lol, almost 14' off the ground."

He continues, "Each board is 24' long , and these are a true 9 1/2" by 2" boards, very heavy, and very hard to pull them up. We ended up using a boat winch on the ground with a pulley on a bar in the rafters, 20' in the air."

All in a day's work. Well, we're sure it was more than a day. "It is taking shape," Paul says, "with the help of Lance, and Tonya, and Cheryl making teas for us, and a great supper."

Photos courtesy of Paul Harrington

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Speaking of "The Dukes," Tom Wopat, our own Luke Duke, will fill in for Robert Cuccioli for the Cabaret Pittsburgh Riverview Series show at the Renaissance Hotel on February 15. Read more about it at Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Archie launches blogs for all of its titles

MAMARONECK , NY -- Archie Comics is starting the new year with a bang: 18 brand-new comic title-specific blogs. Archie has a reputation for being interactive with its fans, for years receiving mail by the ton telling what fans think about what they were doing.

Since the launch of www.archiecomics.com, Archie has been receiving millions of emails and fan art from readers. The site receives 16-18 million hits a month, Archie's corporate office says.

With the new system of blogs, Archie will get information to the fans title by title. For example, if you read Tales From Riverdale each month, you can find out the latest news about that title without having to read through what is happening in every title.

If you are a fan of Josie & the Pussycats, you will be able to read about our plans for them in our digests. The digests also regularly feature That Wilkin Boy, Dilton, Captain Sprocket, and even Reggie. Characters that are not featured in their own title often have a regular home in some of Archie's digests.

"The blog format will allow us to interact with our fans and protect our younger fans," Archie's official release says. "All posts will be read by a member of the Archie Comics staff prior to posting so that parents will be able to feel safe when their children are visiting the Archie Comics site."

The new blogs will also feature content not found anywhere else, from interviews with the writers, artists and staff to sketches and other art.

"As the world of communication grows, we have looked for more ways to communicate with our fans," Archie Comics says. "We want to let them know what we have planned, and we want to hear from them if they think we are doing a good job. We will have immediate dialog with our fans on every title we publish."

To find these new title-specific blogs, go to www.archiecomics.com and click on the word "COMICS" on the upper banner.

Or, you can find each separate blog at...
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/archiecomic
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/archiedigest
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/archiedoubledigest
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/archieandfriends
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/palsngalsdoubledigest
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/talesfromriverdaldigest
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/bettyandveronica
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/bettyandveronicadigest
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/bettyandveronicadoubledigest
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/bettycomic
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/veronicacomic
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/bettyandveronicaspectacular
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/jugheadcomic
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/jugheaddigest
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/jugheaddoubledigest
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/sabrina
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/sonic
http://archie-blogs.archiecomics.com/sonicx

Bits 'n' Pieces: "Dukes" and O'Hurley

If it weren't for that zany John O'Hurley guy, it'd be all-"Dukes", all-the-time, in today's edition of our occasional Bits 'n' Pieces From Around the Web feature ...

- He was so dashing as the almost-winner on "Dancing With the Stars" a couple years back, and we just saw him on a "Seinfeld" episode the other day as the quirky J. Peterman (boy, he sure was a heckuva a lot taller than Julia Louis-Dreyfus!). But us "Santa Barbara" fans remember John O'Hurley best as one of the Stephen Slades, a quite serious role. Now, O'Hurley has a new instructional dancing DVD, based on his time on the ABC hit show:
http://imtsinghua.com.cn/2008/01/05/dancing-with-the-stars-former-runners-up-release-instructional-dvd/

- Didya miss the Lee 1 appearance on Spike TV this past weekend? All is not lost:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFbr6HhXYts

- What do you do when the sale of your high-end classic car falls through in a widely publicized eBay auction? You take it to the famous Barrett-Jackson auto auction, of course! That's what John Schneider is doing with the beautiful General Lee he built himself:
http://www.barrett-jackson.com/application/search/carlist_Details.aspx?&In_LotNumber=1321
http://www.barrett-jackson.com/eventschedule/

- And did you know that Schneider appeared at the World of Wheels in Atlanta this past Friday? The WOW sure is ripe with "Dukes" stars, on a regular basis. Ben ("Cooter") Jones, for instance, will be appearing at the World of Wheels in Grand Rapids this coming weekend ...
http://www.autorama.com/casi/grandrapids.htm
And in Indianapolis next month ...
http://www.autorama.com/casi/indianapolis.htm

- Sonny Shroyer, meanwhile, hits the road for a monster truck event in Lexington, Kentucky, later this month:
http://www.rupparena.com/events/2008/20080118_hotRodtruck.php

Author and children's advocate writes for Archie & Friends

From Archie Comics

MAMARONECK , NY – Archie Comics announces acclaimed writer and children’s art advocate Alex Simmons’ first story for the Archie & Friends title. Simmons' work has been seen throughout other comics like Blackjack, Batman, Tarzan, Superman, Race Against Time and Scooby-Doo.

Over the past 11 years, he's written stories that have spanned the genres of high adventure, sci-fi and mystery. Now he's taking a walk down the streets of Riverdale as he pens his first Archie story in an adventurous tale that spans four issues.

"This is a real kick for me," Simmons says. "In my career I have been fortunate enough to write stories for several of the fictional characters I grew up with, including a modern play and two books involving Sherlock Holmes. Writing for Archie just raised the enjoyment bar another level."

In a career spanning 20 years, Simmons has written juvenile mystery novels, stage plays, documentaries, biographies and more. He also travels the country as a speaker and a teaching artist, conducting creative writing workshops. He is the educational outreach director for New York City’s Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art. He also works as a voiceover artist for commercials and podcasts and runs a family-friendly kids comic convention each year.

On his first Archie story, Simmons says, "Rex Lindsey is the man!!! His artwork on 'Double-A Seven' is fantastic! I especially love the view from the London Eye observation wheel. What a shot. Rex's art will definitely pull our readers into the exotic settings of our story, and that's a big part of this wild ride."

Simmons’ “Archie World Tour” will begin its globetrotting tale in Archie & Friends #117 and continue through Archie & Friends #120. "Archie & Friends #117 will be available at the March 29th Kids' Comic Con, where I will be happy to sign free copies for the first 300 fans at the Archie booth," Simmons says.



ARCHIE & FRIENDS #117
"Archie World Tour Part 1 of 4: Double-A Seven": When Archie and friends embark on a whirlwind world tour, their first stop is London , where they soon find themselves embroiled in an international spy mystery!
SCRIPT: Alex Simmons. ART: Rex Lindsey.
On sale at comic specialty shops: March 12, 2008
On sale on newsstands: March 25, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

"Justice League" film looks like a winner

We reported in the July 25 post of this blog about the new straight-to-DVD "Justice League" movie, "The New Frontier," featuring some of the talents from our beloved "Batman: The Animated Series" and its various spinoffs. Warner Bros. is releasing the movie on February 26 on DVD, HD-DVD, Blu-Ray and on-demand:
http://whv.warnerbros.com/WHVPORTAL/Portal/product.jsp?OID=31232&S=JLNFEml

Warner Bros. is also offering a special treat to one lucky person, the chance to voice a character in an upcoming DC Universe movie:
http://www.centric.com/sweepstakes/jla/

There's a snazzo official site for the DVD film:
http://www.warnervideo.com/jlnewfrontier/

It's enough to make our geeky teeth chatter. We'll be there!

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Bativerse, Mark Hamill, who voiced the Joker in "B:TAS," weighs in on Heath Ledger's part in the new Batman flick. CinemaBlend and the MTV Movies Blog have the details.

BRBTV birthdays for January ...

- Rick Hurst, Cletus Hogg of "The Dukes of Hazzard," turned 62 on January 1.
- Rawley Valverde, Amado Gonzalez on "Santa Barbara," turned 42 on January 1.
- John Considine, a BRBTV quadruple-shot as the commanding Grant Capwell on "SB," David Prescott on "Dynasty," Lt. Braden on "The Colbys" and Investigator Hackle on the "P.O.V." episode of "Batman: The Animated Series," turned 73 today, January 2.
- Victoria Principal, Pamela Ewing of "Dallas," turns 58 on January 3.
- Sorrell Booke, the unforgettable Boss J.D. Hogg of "The Dukes," was born January 4, 1930, and passed on February 11, 1994.
- Pamela Sue Martin, the supercool 'n' sassy original Fallon Carrington on "Dynasty," turns 54 on January 5.
- Michael Wilding Jr., that handsome son of Elizabeth Taylor who showed up on "Dallas" as Alex Barton, turns 55 on January 6.
- Fern Fitzgerald, our lovely and biting Marilee Stone of "Dallas," turns 61 on January 7.
- Kristen Meadows, Victoria Lane of "SB," turns 51 on January 7.
- Tony Wike, who voiced Mr. Weatherbee on "Archie's Weird Mysteries," turns 53 on January 7.
- K Callan, who portrayed not only Superman's mom in the '90s "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman," but also April Stevens' mom Amy on "Dallas," turns 66 on January 9.
- Krista Tesreau, the psycho Andi Klein of "SB," turns 44 on January 10.
- Richard Moll, who did a few wonderful turns as the skanky Milo Beaudry on "The Dukes," and who voiced Harvey Dent / Two-Face on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 65 on January 13.
- Sherill Lynn Rettino, the faithful secretary Jackie Dugan on "Dallas," was born on January 13, 1956 and died July 3, 1995.
- Barry Jenner, who sought to woo Sue Ellen Ewing as Jerry Kenderson on "Dallas," is 67 on January 14.
- Arte Johnson, also a notable guest as Irving in the "The Dukes" episode "Double Sting," turns 78 on January 20.
- Joe Marinelli, the mobster cross-dresser with a heart of gold, Bunny, on "SB," turns 51 on January 21.
- Leigh Taylor-Young, Kimberly Cryder on "Dallas," turns 56 on January 25.
- Cathy Podewell, country-bumpkin Cally Harper on "Dallas," and Paul Johansson, long-lost Capwell son Greg Hughes on "SB," both turn a young 44 on January 26.
- Donna Reed, the Miss Ellie replacement on "Dallas," was born on January 27, 1921, and passed on January 14, 1986.
- Carrington Garland, a very lovely Kelly Capwell (we liked her every bit as much as Robin Wright) on "SB," turns 44 on January 27.
- James Cromwell, who was the duplicitous Gerald Kane on "Dallas," turns 68 on January 27.
- John Beck , a BRBTV double-shot with a stint as Mark Graison on "Dallas" and a turn as David Raymond on "SB," turns 65 on January 28.
- Susan Howard, longtime Donna Krebbs on "Dallas," turns 62 on January 28.
- Harley Jane Kozak, the wonderful Mary Duvall on "SB" and one of our favorites, turns 51 on January 28.
- Marc Singer , a little spooky as Matt Cantrell on "Dallas," and who voiced Dr. Kirk Langstrom on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 60 on January 29.
- John Forsythe, the amazing Blake Carrington on "Dynasty," turns 90 on January 29.
- Katharine Ross, the much-put-upon Francesca Colby on "Dynasty" spinoff "The Colbys," turns 66 on January 29.
- David Wayne, who was one of the Digger Barneses on "Dallas," was born on January 30, 1914 and died February 9, 1995.
- Justin Gocke, a very memorable Brandon DeMott on "SB," turns a most-young 30 on January 31.

Happy birthday to all!!!!

Happy anniversary, BRBTV!!!!!!!

Birthday, anniversary, however you call it, it's 10 big years of BRBTV this year, in 2008! It's 10 years of loving "Dynasty," "Dallas" and "The Dukes of Hazzard" ... 10 years of research, writing, photography, graphic design and much more to express that love ... 10 years of building and maintaining websites on multiple platforms, learning HTML in the evening hours, losing information in computer crashes and nearly sending desktops hurling through the window ... 10 years of embracing this wonderful thing called the Internet! Yea -- 10 years of all that!

It was 1998 when Billie Rae Bates -- in the evening hours from her job at a daily newspaper in downtown Detroit -- first decided to sit down in front of a computer, create a free account on the Geocities site, and start entering information about "Dallas," a show she dearly loved in the '80s. Fan sites for TV shows were all the rage, and BRB took this format and made it more, until reference books, feature stories and reports burst forth. (She is first and foremost a journalist, after all.)

And now, as BRBTV wishes you a fond and happy new year, we also announce that we've got some fun stuff in store to celebrate this milestone. From signed copies of the BRBTV fact books to original press kits from a variety of TV shows and movies both well-known and obscure, you can check out all the quirky stuff at our special BRBTV anniversary page:

http://anniversary.brbtv.com/

Check out the special deals on the page, and help us celebrate the anniversary of BRBTV all year long in 2008!

And you can read more on the BRBTV anniversary in the official press release.

Bits 'n' Pieces: Diahann Carroll, General Lee

We've got a couple from the "Dukes" and a couple from "Dynasty" in today's Bits 'n' Pieces From Around the Web ...

- "Entertainment Tonight" did a countdown of what they consider the top 20 TV stars of all time, unleashing one half of the results this past weekend. Coming in at No. 18 was Diahann Carroll, our lovely Dominique Devereaux of "Dynasty." For her segment, she discussed how she got out of an abusive relationship, she touched on her fight with breast cancer and she fondly remembered "Dynasty" as a fabulous time to enjoy great clothing. "ET" announces the second half of the countdown this coming weekend, and we just bet there are a few other BRBTV stars in the mix ...

- More "Dynasty" DVDs are on the way ... TVShowsonDVD sets the record straight on release dates and contents of the next DVD release of our beloved "Dynasty," which will focus on the third season of the show:
http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/news/Dynasty-Correct-Date-Title/8667

- With the new "Knight Rider" movie coming up on NBC in February, TV muscle cars are generating buzz. KETV Channel 7 of Omaha, Nebraska, compiled a list of the top TV cars of all time, and you guessed it, that fabulous blazin' orange beauty, the General Lee, factored in. We won't tell you where in the countdown; you'll have to read it yourself:
http://www.ketv.com/automotive/14926952/detail.html

- And finally, the restored original General Lee, fondly dubbed Lee 1 and so closely watched by "Dukes" fans everywhere, is featured in Spike TV's "PowerBlockTV" show this weekend. Watch a promo video featuring the car on their website:
http://www.powerblocktv.com/sites/
You can also read more about the car and its restoration in this story in one of the hometown papers of Maine native Jim Shine, who helped in the Lee 1 project:
http://www.sunjournal.com/story/244858-3/OxfordHills/Maine_parts_complement_original_General_Lee/


Tune in to the BRBTV News Blog tomorrow, when we'll have a special New Year's Day announcement!

Tom Wopat hits the big and small screen

Tom Wopat is not all Broadway these days; our buddy Luke Duke is returning to his big and small screen credits with a couple new projects for 2008.

"Taking Chance" is a HBO TV movie that is still filming in New Jersey for release next year. The plotline from the IMDb: "Based on real-life events, Lt. Col. Michael Strobl (Bacon), a volunteer military escort officer, accompanies the body of 19-year-old Marine Chance Phelps back to his hometown of Dubois, Wyoming." The movie also features Kevin Bacon as well as Paige Turco, whom you might recall from the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" movies. Wopat portrays Mr. Phelps.

"The Understudy" is classified as completed. Gloria Reuben of "ER" and all kinds of other stuff is also on board. The plotline from the IMDb: "A perennial understudy takes matters into her own hands to achieve fame at any price." Wopat plays Detective Jones.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: It's sad to read on People magazine's site that Robin Wright Penn's marriage is ending. BRBTV offers its fondest wishes for happier times ahead for our original Kelly Capwell of "Santa Barbara."

Coming up in Archie Comics in the next few weeks

ARCHIE #581
"Forget Me Not": Miraculously, Archie remembers the anniversary of his first date with Veronica… but can he remember to get her a gift she doesn’t already have?
"MESS-terpiece": When Mr. Lodge’s favorite artist goes abstract, he suspects Archie of tampering with his paintings!
"Surprise": Betty keeps slipping little surprises into Archie’s back pockets… leading Archie to wonder if he’s absentmindedly taking things he shouldn’t!
"Just Plain Wrong": It’s "business" as usual when Veronica has to break a date with Archie to entertain the son of one of her father’s clients… but in the end, it’s Archie who makes the real power play!
SCRIPTS: Craig Boldman. ART: Stan Goldberg
On sale on newsstands: January 22, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

ARCHIE DIGEST #241
"Interest Rate": Archie’s well-meaning new neighbor can’t help but noticing everything he does… and she isn’t shy about saying so! Now Archie is in hot water with his employer and his girlfriends. Archie must find a way to get himself out of the spotlight, but finding her a new hobby… or better yet a new man!
SCRIPT: Angelo DeCesare. ART: Bob Bolling.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: February 12, 2008
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #185
"Freeze Framed": Archie hopes the seasonal photos he submitted to the local newspaper’s "Winter Wonderland" competition don’t meet with a frosty reception!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Randy Elliott.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: January 22, 2008
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

BETTY #171
"Consolation": The winter blues are that much bluer for Betty when Veronica emails photos of her Hawaiian vacation to Betty.
SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Hold the Phone": Archie and Betty mix their cell phones up – which spells big trouble for Veronica when she sends text messages to try to ditch a night out with Betty in favor of a date with Archie!
SCRIPT: Bill Golliher. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"The Treatment": When stress has Betty utterly exhausted, Veronica introduces her to the pampering pleasures of spa life!
SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Stan Goldberg.
"Clean Sweep": Betty cleans the TV room so she and Archie can watch a movie – but with a scary movie and bowl of popcorn on the agenda, can it stay clean for long?
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Stan Goldberg.
On sale on newsstands: January 29, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA #233
"The Wild Twenties": So just what was the relationship between parents and teenagers like in the 1920s? This telling tale is filled with nostalgia for the fads and fashions of yesterday – and parental gripes that still seem strangely familiar!
SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Jeff Shultz.
"Royal Flush": Don’t miss the majestic mayhem when a duke, a prince, a king, a crowned head, some dogs and a duped darling collide in this royal mash-up!
SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Jeff Shultz.
"Second World": When Betty and Veronica get lost in the "virtual reality" of simulated computer worlds, can Archie bring them back to "actual" reality?
SCRIPT: Barbara Slate. ART: Jeff Shultz.
"Enough About Me": Veronica’s not satisfied with just being self-centered – she wants everyone else to be Veronica-centered, too!
SCRIPT: Barbara & Samantha Slate. ART: Jeff Shultz.
On sale on newsstands: February 12, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #181
"Be My Valentine …or Else!": In our previous issue, 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. Their scheming continues this issue, 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!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales, including the "animated" Sabrina!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: February 5, 2008
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #158
"Cheering Section": Three cheers for Riverdale’s cheerleading team – they are guaranteed to "cheer" you "up" when you’re feeling "down!"
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Pat Kennedy.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: February 19, 2008
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

JUGHEAD #187
"Give Me a Sign": Mr. Lodge drives another competitor’s business out of town, but not before Jughead claims its "coming soon" sign. Now as Jughead tries to get the sign home, Mr. Lodge sees it all over town and is convinced his rival is planning a major takeover!
"Advices Times Twice": Archie is always coming to Jughead for advice, but now that he needs advice on winning over a certain girl, Jughead is shocked to find he’s consulting Trula Twyst! Will Trula’s advice on the girl prove successful… or will Jughead’s unheeded warnings about Trula end in disaster?!
"Vocal Yokel": Jughead decides to sing for his supper – and those who hear him are glad to stuff his mouth with food!
"Make Your Own Kind of Music": The Archies have a new "big idea": custom instruments designed to match the personalities of each of the band members!
SCRIPTS: Craig Boldman. ART: Rex Lindsey.
On sale on newsstands: February 12, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

JUGHEAD & FRIENDS DIGEST #26
"Nut of This Earth": When a local eatery goes out of business and auctions off its wares, Jughead is the first in line. Unfortunately, he lets his taste buds do the bidding instead of his common sense – how else would he end up with 500 pounds of nuts? Jughead has really cracked his shell this time… and there are still 499 to go!
SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: January 29, 2008
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

JUGHEAD’S DOUBLE DIGEST #137
"Cold Hard Facts": Normally, a day off due to snow would make Jughead ecstatic, but this time there’s one complication too many and that’s got Jughead… and his stomach… grumbling!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Henry Scarpelli.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: February 5, 2008
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

PALS-N-GALS DOUBLE DIGEST #118
"Dueling Dummies": It’s the battle of the ventriloquists when Reggie and Archie compete to see who can throw their voices… and their insults of one another… further! Lucky for them, Mr. Lodge is throwing a bash just for ventriloquists… and their dummies, too! Unknown to Mr. Lodge, however, a pint-sized pilferer and his hefty henchman are crashing the party – masquerading as a man and his dummy, of course! Can Reggie and Archie stop their feud long enough to stop the tiny terror and his tiny-brained lackey from making off with the Lodge family jewels?!
SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Fernando Ruiz.
On sale on newsstands: January 29, 2008
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH #91
"The Turning": The "Duality Wands" have raised the gauntlet for Sabrina, giving her even more abilities than the considerable powers granted her before. But this substantial new power comes at a steep price. Now that she has the power to set things right and even destroy her enemies, is Sabrina in danger of succumbing to a far more dangerous threat?!
SCRIPT: Tania del Rio. ART: Tania del Rio & Jim Amash.
COVER: Tania del Rio & Jim Amash
On sale on newsstands: February 5, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

Robin Wright Penn might be in a Christmas mood

It's only the day after Christmas, and already Robin Wright Penn, our beautiful original Kelly Capwell of "Santa Barbara," is thinking about next Christmas. More specifically, she's thinking about a new version of "A Christmas Carol" starring Jim Carrey as Scrooge and the three Christmas ghosts. At least it's rumored she's thinking about it.

Penn is up for a role in the Robert Zemeckis update of the Charles Dickens classic, according to the IMDb. Rumors have a star-studded array attached: Gary Oldman, Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Bob Hoskins. We'll see how things shake out for this one as the next couple years pass; it's not scheduled for release until November 2009.

Penn, meanwhile, is so busy and quick that she's got other stuff on her rap sheet since we last checked in. With "The Private Lives of Pippa Lee," based on the novel by Rebecca Miller, she portrays the title character. Winona Ryder and Julianne Moore are also in this one. There's a website that tells a little more about this story: http://www.pippalee.co.uk/

Merry Christmas from the BRBTV News Blog

Seasons greetings, and all that jazz. What's better, at Christmastime, than a couple photos of the car from the "Carnival of Thrills" two-part episode of "The Dukes of Hazzard"? Nothing, we say! It's just the perfect accompaniment to holiday cheer ...

The young man behind the wheel here is Lance, son of Mr. Paul Harrington of the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club and organizer of the annual Hair Dare Dukes Days benefit for cancer research. The sweet-mannered and handsome Lance can often be seen at "Dukes" events with Dad (and often, as you can see, patiently laughing while his "Dukes"-happy parental unit is snapping pictures).



("Go, Bo Duke, go! You can be the star of the show!" Oooops, er, sorry) The car is a replica, by the way, and kids, don't try this trick at home. (Whatever this particular trick is -- we think it's basically just driving, which any "Dukes" fan knows how to do anyway.)

Thanks very much to Paul for sending these two shots along, and make sure you keep an eye on his Hair Dare event, scheduled for August 22-24 in Ruscom Station, Ontario, Canada. BRB is confirmed for the show -- to sign copies of "Them Dukes! Them Dukes!" -- and Byron (Coy Duke) Cherry and Don Pedro (Sheriff Little) Colley are planning the trip again, too. It promises to be another wildly fun and safe "Dukes" event.

BRBTV News Blog Blip: If BRB is going to be immersed in an all-day Yahtzee marathon tomorrow with her 11-year-old niece Veronica (named for the Archie Comics character, don't ya know), then she better just post this last little tidbit today, while she's wishing y'all a wonderful, happy and peaceful Christmas ... How could the town of Dallas not be thrilled to pieces to remind folks of J.R. Ewing and the Southfork clan? Evidently, it's all about image. Read on, in this story in the Chicago Tribune.

Well, what's the verdict on the new Joker? Bat-pros weigh in

The new interpretation of Batman's nemesis the Joker by Hollywood heavyweight Heath Ledger is causing quite a stir, and the movie's nowhere near the theaters yet.

"Heath Ledger's Joker seems perfectly suited to the dark Gotham City created by Christopher Nolan," says Paul Dini, writer of our beloved "Batman: The Animated Series" and its various offshoots. "He seems more street than any other version of the Joker, with his clownish visage recalling hastily applied graffiti paint rather than chemically dyed skin."

More "street"! Love that! Because if anything, Cesar Romero's Joker was dapper and somehow strangely mannerly. Jack Nicholson matched a lot of that demeanor. And Mark Hamill? Well, he's wasn't too far off the dapper scale, either. Maybe because this latest film is still prequeling the Batlore we know and love so well, that means Joker grows up -- evolves, if you will -- to have a certain degree of sophistication in his purple pinstripes!

And is this younger Joker a little rougher around the edges in other ways, too? Not the degree of wit and humor, according to our Harley Quinn creator? "This Joker doesn't split sides ... he splits skulls," Dini says.

Read more of the commentary at MTV.com. And watch the extended trailer of the movie there, too. (And man-oh-man, BRBTV's just gotta say that Nolan's interpretation of the Caped Crusader, with all of its tone and fury, is just kickin' the crap out of those '90s Batflicks.)

BRBTV News Blog Blip: Over in "Santa Barbara," meanwhile, an old familiar face is returning to daytime TV. Our latter Kelly Capwell, Eileen Davidson, is reprising her role as Ashley on CBS' "The Young and the Restless" on December 28, January 2 and 3.

"Dynasty" pops up in exhibit on the influence of TV

Well, we've always known what a pop-culture icon our beloved "Dynasty" is. The art world is recognizing it, too, with an exhibit showing at the Whitney in New York.

In the midst of examples by various artists highlighting the massive influence television has had on our culture, Joan Braverman presents a video called "Joan Does Dynasty." The artist adds her own image to scenes from the show for the work, which is 35 minutes long.

To read more on this crazy-sounding concoction:
http://www.nysun.com/article/68388
http://www.nyobserver.com/2007/whitney-present-tv-art-exhibition

Coming up in Archie Comcs

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

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #115
"From the Ground Up": Inspired by TV's home makeover shows, Archie and his friends endeavor to restore historic Pickens General Store and turn it into a museum. But can they overcome their lack of construction experience, not to mention opportunistic politicians who want to exploit the situation for their own gain and fame? Don't miss the first story written by longtime Archie collector/historian Jeffrey C. Branch – a poignant addition to the fabled canon of Riverdale lore!
SCRIPT: Jeffrey C. Branch. ART: Rex Lindsey.
On sale on newsstands: January 8, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

ARCHIE DIGEST #240
"Arrow Talk": The new cupid in town gets a lesson from the retiring one – when it comes to love, there's no more star-crossed place than Riverdale! How else to explain one boy who just can't seem to choose a girl, another who prefers hamburgers to honies, and a third who finds no more stunning beauty than that which stares back at him from the mirror?!
SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Pat Kennedy.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: January 1, 2008
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA #232
"Pairing Off": With Archie's car problems making him perpetually late and in danger of detention after detention, the girls present alternatives: Betty urges Archie to take the bus in with her, but Veronica offers to pick Archie up in her sports car!
SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Jeff Shultz.
"Lost": Some folks get lost the moment they get behind the wheel of a car, but Veronica doesn't even get that far – she's still working our way out of her labyrinthine closet!
SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Jeff Shultz.
"Backstage Pass": When the girls get backstage passes to the "Tumbling Boulders" concert, they're surprised to learn that offstage the band is more "mild" than "wild!"
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski. ART: Jeff Shultz.
On sale on newsstands: January 1, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #180
"Love Can Be Nasty": Cheryl Blossom is tired of competing with Betty and Veronica for Archie's affections. Likewise, Reggie is tired of competing with Archie for dates with Betty and Veronica. Guess it's time for Reggie and Cheryl to form an alliance to solve this once and for all! But will putting their heads together result in their hearts coming together, too? It's the romantic jigsaw puzzle of the year, as only the matchmakers (and breakers) at Archie Comics could conceive it!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales, including the "animated" Sabrina!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: December 26, 2007
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #157
"You Ain't Got No Elegance": Both Betty and Archie are abuzz when they learn Veronica's got a hot date with a high class gentleman! Is this finally the answer to Betty's prayers, or merely the beginning of Archie's nightmares? The answer will melt your heart!
SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb. ART: Pat Kennedy.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: January 8, 2008
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

JUGHEAD #186
"The Big Sleep": The annual ice shuffleboard championship is on, but Riverdale's star player Jughead is in deep hibernation! Will his teammates be able to revive him before they're "iced?!" "To Beach His Own": Jughead discovers how to beat the crowds at the beach – go in the dead of winter! "Chilly Reception": When a girl gets tangled in Hot Dog's chain, Jughead untangles her and treats her at Pop's. The question is, will their hearts get tangled, too?
SCRIPTS: Craig Boldman. ART: Rex Lindsey.
On sale on newsstands: December 26, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

JUGHEAD'S DOUBLE DIGEST #136
"His Hidden Talent": Jughead discovers a hidden talent – although he hates to work himself, he devises a way to find work for others… a way that results in free snow removal AND free pizzas! Just what is Jughead's marvelous new method for avoiding work? Be sure to read this issue to find out!
SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Fernando Ruiz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: December 26, 2007
Full-color digest format
$3.69 U.S.

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH #90
"Hidden Worlds, Forbidden Power": After discovering the "Duality Wands," Sabrina finds once forbidden powers and abilities are opening up to her. While attempting to grasp this new, unbelievable power, she discovers one of her new powers is the ability to create portals into hidden worlds – worlds filled with magical treasures! Entering these hidden worlds results in at least two consequences: separated from her boyfriend and other loved ones, Sabrina is left to face the unknown alone; and with nothing else to do but continue trying to control the power of the "Duality Wands," she doesn't realize that it is the power that is controlling her!
SCRIPT: Tania del Rio. ART: Tania del Rio & Jim Amash.
COVER: Tania del Rio & Jim Amash.
On sale on newsstands: December 26, 2007
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

TALES FROM RIVERDALE DIGEST #26
"A Warming Effect": Reggie gives a "chilly reception" to his eco-friendly pals' concerns over global warming, but an even more "chilling" dream soon "cools" his objections!
SCRIPT: George Gladir. ART: Fernando Ruiz.
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale on newsstands: January 15, 2008
Full-color digest format
$2.49 U.S.

VERONICA #186
"Isn't It Romantic?": Betty and Veronica become enraptured by the latest "hot" romance story, but due to a clever pseudonym, little do they realize the author is really someone they know quite well! Is it one of their classmates? A parent? One of the faculty? The answer to this intriguing question will astound you!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent.
On sale on newsstands: January 15, 2008
32-page, full-color comic
$2.25 U.S.

FUN PACKS ARE A TERRIFIC COMIC BOOK VALUE!

Due to many requests, we are making these affordable FUN-PACKS of Archie-published titles available once more. Each features three fun-filled, full color, 32-page Archie titles for the perfect reading value! They make the perfect stocking stuffers!

ARCHIE FUN-PACK (3 Comics), $3.59.

John Travolta heads out of "Dallas"?

We've gotten rather used to it ... Every time a sneeze is emitted from someone associated with the new "Dallas" big-screen remake, the vibrations are felt all across the Internet. We don't pass everything along on this blog, but the most recent tidbit is a biggie ... John Travolta out?

John Travolta, the sole cast survivor of all the ins and outs since the project first made the news? That John Travolta?

Well, as we said, it's all over the 'Net:

PageSix / New York Post
CHUD.com
CinemaBlend.com
Times Square Gossip
Allie is Wired

It all leads one to wonder, once again, as we do every time we hear that sneezing sound ... Is this film going to be made, or isn't it? Especially since if, indeed, Ben Stiller has been offered the role of J.R. Ewing, he isn't willing to admit it? Yikes! We'll stand by with bait on our breath, as our good buddy Ralph used to say ...

Some upcoming "Dukes" appearances

Ya know we like to check in now and then with our "Dukes of Hazzard" cast and crew, to see where they're going and when they're going. Here's what's comin' up ...

- Rick Hurst, our own Deputy Cletus Hogg, will be at Cooter's Place in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, December 27 - 31, 2007. He'll sign autographs and take pictures.

- Jim Best, that rascally Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane, will appear at the Canton Hot Rod Custom Show in Canton, Ohio, on Jan 26, 2008. The show is at the Canton Civic Center, 1101 Market Avenue. Call (330) 628-2432 for more info. (And check out the pooches on Best's official website -- BRBTV is partial to Daisy Mae, a beagle!

- The Hazzard County Stunt Team will be at the East Texas Crisis Center Car Show in Tyler, Texas, on February 29 - March 2, 2008. Then, on March 28 - 30, 2008, they'll go to MOPARS at the Strip in Las Vegas. For more information on that one, contact mopars@thestrip.com.