Some breaking news in Hollywood. Ashton Kutcher has finalized a deal to replace the temperamental Charlie Sheen on the hit CBS TV sitcom, “Two and a Half Men,” according to deadline.com  For a while, British actor, Hugh Grant, was the front runner for the job, but that plan did not work out.

Deadline.com has more on this story and the behind the scenes developments that had a number of actors as contenders to join the “Two and a Half Men” cast.

The New York Times column “Modern Love” is hooking up with Lifetime Television.  A TV series based on the column got a pilot deal at the cable network, according to deadline.com

The “Modern Love” TV series will use real stories from the newspaper column to create episodes that explore the state of modern relationships. The pilot will begin shooting this summer. Deadline has more on the genesis of the newspaper column and how it got a TV deal.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Promotional poster for the book "Chuck Fries Godfather of the Television Movie A History of Television."

Prolific television producer, Chuck Fries, was in the spotlight recently at the Burbank public library sponsored “An Evening with Hollywood Movers & Shaker.” The event on March 22, drew a crowd to the Buena Vista Library.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- The spotlight on television producer Chuck Fries drew a crowd to the Buena Vista Library in Burbank March 22, 2011

Fries was introduced by popular radio personality and disc jockey, Rick Dees, who has the #1 rated internationally syndicated radio show, “Rick Dees Weekly Top 40.”

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Radio personality Rick Dees gives the thumbs-up after introducing TV producer Chuck Fries at the Buena Vista Library in Burbank March 22, 2011

Chuck Fries has produced over 100 movies for television. His credits include a wide variety of films like, “She Waits” (1972), “The Secret Night Caller” (1975),”Cat People” (1982), ”Sins of the Father” (1985), ”Flowers in the Attic” (1987),”The Case of the Hillside Stranglers” (1989), “Troop Beverly Hills”  (1989),  “Leona Helmsley: The Queen of Mean” (1990), and “The Initiation of Sarah” (2006).

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- (l-r) Producer Chuck Fries, moderator/senior editor The Hollywood Reporter Alex Ben Block, actor Dorian Harewood at the Buena Vista Library Burbank March 22, 2011

Actor Dorian Harewood talked about working in the Fries fact-based TV film, “The Ambush Murders”(1982).

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Producer Chuck Fries, moderator/senior editor The Hollywood Reporter Alex Ben Block, Ava Fries at the Buena Vista Library in Burbank March 22, 2011

Chuck’s wife, Ava, joined him on the platform to discuss her experience as a producer of the film, “Troop Beverly Hills” (1989).

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Spider-Man made a brief appearance at the Buena Vista Library in Burbank March 22, 2011

The web slinger, Spider-Man, dropped in to remind folks that Fries produced the TV series “The Amazing Spider-Man” (1977-1979) and the TV movie ”Spider-Man Strikes Back” (1979).

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Producer Chuck Fries signed copies of his book at the Buena Vista Library in Burbank March 22, 2011

The book, “Chuck Fries Godfather of the Television Movie  A History of Television,” was released last fall.

Another twist in the Charlie Sheen saga

There are more strange twists in the real-life saga of troubled-outspoken actor, Charlie Sheen, than most TV shows. This morning, Sheen’s attorney filed a $100 million lawsuit against Warner Bros. and “Two and a Half Men” co-creator/executive producer, Chuck Lorre.

The suit comes days after Warner Bros. fired Sheen from the highly rated TV sitcom. The Wrap has the termination letter, a copy of Sheen’s complaint, and more here.

Book deal for actor/comedian/author, Bill Cosby

Entertainer Bill Cosby has a new book coming out later this year, in November. “I Didn’t Ask To Be Born, But I’m Glad I Was,” touches on Cosby’s dating experience, misbehaving grandkids, and his views on God and the Bible, according to the publishing site, Galleycat.

Cosby has written several books including, “Fatherhood” and “Cosbyology.”

Script news: screenwriter selected for reboot of “Robocop”

Deadline.com is reporting that Josh Zetumer has been hired by MGM to script a new version of the 1987 sci-fi action hit, “Robocop.” There were two sequels in 1990 and 1993, but none did as well as the first movie at the box office. Zetumer is a hot screenwriter right now. He got his big break with the spy thriller screenplay, “Infiltrator.”  More here.

Photo: Pete Souza/White House -- Entertainer Stevie Wonder got a standing ovation from the audience during "The Motown Sound: In Performance at the White House" concert February 24, 2011

PBS stations across the country ran the premiere of the TV special, ”The Motown Sound: In Performance at the White House,” last night. The concert recorded in the East Room of the White House back on February 24, 2011, was a celebration of Black History Month and the legendary soul/pop/rhythm and blues sound of Motown Records.

Some of the great artists who helped create that Motown Sound: The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Supremes, Gladys Knight and the Pips, and Stevie Wonder.

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama hosted the event, which included appearances by Seal, Jamie Foxx, Smokey Robinson, Sheryl Crow, John Legend, Nick Jonas, and Southland KJLH radio station owner/entertainer, Stevie Wonder — just to name a few.

Christina Aguilera jailed for public drunkenness

The pop diva with the big voice, Christina Aguilera, has hit a rough patch. Her movie, “Burlesque,” stumbled at the box office, she botched the national anthem at the Super Bowl a few weeks ago, and then last night, the singer was arrested for being intoxicated in public. 

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputies reportedly pulled over a car in West Hollywood early this morning with the singer’s boyfriend, Matthew Rutler, behind the wheel. He was busted on suspicion of DUI and Aguilera, a passenger in the car, was so out of it — she reportedly was taken into custody for her own safety. People has details including comments from Los Angeles County Sheriff’s spokesman, Steve Whitmore.  

Charlie Sheen’s TV show ratings soar

Actor Charlie Sheen is in meltdown, but the ratings on his now canceled-for-the-season TV show are terrific. A repeat of “Two and a Half Men” was the most watched program on television last night. Deadline has the numbers.

Natalie Portman and the designer controversy

Lead actress Academy Award winner on Sunday, Natalie Portman, condemned alleged anti-Semitic remarks by Dior designer, John Galliano. Portman is Jewish and  promoting a perfume for Dior. The company reportedly has begun proceedings to fire Galliano. More on The Wrap.

Award-winning journalist/author, Belva Davis, is in the Southland this weekend for a number of meet-and-greet-and-book signing events. As Black History month draws to a close, this is an incredible opportunity to meet a trailblazer, Davis, the first African American female reporter/anchor in the West, who covered some of the most significant news stories of the past few decades while fighting racism and sexism.

In her memoir, “Never in My Wildest Dreams: A Black Woman’s Life in Journalism,” Davis describes her fascinating journey, from a difficult childhood to a broken first marriage to becoming one of the top TV journalists in the country. It’s an excellent read without rancor or bitterness. Entertaining, insightful, humorous at times, and engaging from the first to the very last page.

 In the spirit of full disclosure, I have to say I am a long-time fan of Davis. Growing up in the Bay Area, I watched Davis with awe and admiration on the small screen as she reported the news and co-anchored a newscast at KPIX-TV in San Francisco.  The relationship became both personal and professional, when later I got my first real broadcast news job in the KPIX newsroom.

“Never in My Wildest Dreams” is an important book. It should be read by all who enjoy the against-the-odds triumph of determination and talent over adversity. Here’s a list of upcoming Southland appearances by Davis.

Sunday, February 27, 2011 — 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Agape International Spiritual Center –  talk and book signing
• 5700 Buckingham Parkway
• Culver City, CA  90230

Monday, February 28, 2011 — 7 p.m.

• Vroman’s Bookstore – talk and book signing
• 695 East Colorado Boulevard
• Pasadena, CA  91101

Tuesday, March 1, 2011 — 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

• Eso Won Bookstore – reception, talk, and book signing
• 4331 Degnan Boulevard
• Los Angeles, CA  90008

All events are free and open to the public.

Photo: mrs-o.org -- H&M dress turned into a hot seller by First Lady Michelle Obama

Any doubts that First Lady Michelle Obama is a fashion trendsetter were put to rest this week. Mrs. Obama appeared on “The Today Show” last Wednesday morning, wearing a version of a navy polka dotted dress from the spring collection of Swedish retailer, H&M. The price tag, a modest $34.95. Mrs. Obama version had sleeves and was accessorized with an orange belt and lemon yellow pumps.

People magazine says the First Lady “rocked” that dress and apparently a lot viewers agreed. Mrs. Obama’s appearance on “Today” sparked a huge demand for the frock.  As they say, the dresses have been flying off the racks and the phones ringing off the hock with customers trying to find the Michelle Obama dress.

Photo: Peter Kramer/NBC/People --First Lady Michelle Obama appears on "The Today Show" Wednesday, February 9, 2011

The website about Mrs. Obama’s style and fashion, Mrs.O, has several stories about this now famous dress. One post suggests the recent jump in the Swedish retailer’s stock price may be due to Mrs. O wearing that dress on television. Also, the website managed to snag one of those dresses and is now offering it as a prize in a Valentine’s Day contest. Details here.

Photo: Liz.O Baylen/Los Angeles Times -- Lindsay Lohan arrives at the Airport Courthouse Los Angeles February 9, 2011

Troubled actress Lindsay Lohan is back at center stage of a real life drama – one she appears to relish. Today Lohan is out on $40,000 bail after pleading “not guilty’ to a felony grand theft charge for allegedly stealing a $2,500 necklace from a Venice boutique last month.

Lohan showed up at the Airport Courthouse in Los Angeles for her arraignment yesterday in dark sunglasses, wearing a tight white dress and high heel. Yes, Lohan was dressed for the media theater — the role she seems to be playing the most often.

Photo: Mario Anzuoni/Pool/Los Angeles Times -- Lindsay Lohan talks with her attorney Shawn Chapman Holley during an arraignment on a felony grand theft charge in Los Angeles February 9, 2011

 Lohan is due back in court on February 23. More on Lohan’s latest court appearance and the DNA sample she had to give on the Los Angeles Times website.

Keith Olbermann has a new job

Former MSNBC host Keith Olbermann is headed to Current TV – the network co-founded by ex-VP Al Gore. Over on The Wrap Al Gore talks about Current and what Olbermann will do for the fledgling network.

Investigation of fatal crash on TV production set

The victim in that deadly collision on a Santa Clarita TV production set has been identified as Julio Garcia of Reseda, according to The Santa Clarita Signal. Garcia, reportedly a security guard, was struck by a runaway van on the set of the TV drama, “NCIS,” yesterday, shutting down the production. Anyone with information about the crash is asked to call the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station at (661) 799-5111.

Hackers breach Nasdaq security

The Internet is buzzing today about a report of a hacker attack on Nasdaq OMX Group, the company that runs the U.S. stock exchange and several others around the world. The Feds are investigating the computer intrusion — which occurred sometime last year. More about this on the Computerworld website.

Google on a hiring spree

The word is out. Google is hiring. Last week, the Internet search giant got flooded with more than 75,000 applications, according to a Los Angeles Times article. That’s a company record. At the end of 2010, Google had around 24,400 employees. By the beginning of 2012, the innovative company plans to grow to more than 30,000.

NBC staffer fired for posting news clip on YouTube

An NBC staffer reportedly posted a vintage news clip of morning anchors Katie Couric and Bryant Gumbel discussing “what is the Internet?” with reporter Elizabeth Vargas on YouTube. It went viral. Apparently NBC executives were not happy to see the off-air clip from 1994 get that kind of play. The staffer was reportedly fired and NBC is trying to get YouTube to take down the news clip.

The Wrap has more on the dust-up and a copy of that now infamous video.

 It’s not easy being the first to break through social and professional barriers, especially back in the turbulent sixties. Nevertheless, someone has to step up, take the risks, suffer the insults and the rejections, and Belva Davis did that to become the first black female television journalist/anchor in the western United States. Davis tells her incredible story of rising from the projects of Oakland to become an award winning television reporter, known around the world, in her new book out today.

“Never in My Wildest Dreams: A Black Woman’s Life in Journalism,” was written with Bay Area journalist, Vicki Haddock. In this memoir, Davis looks back on her incredible career, which includes covering such important stories as the 1964 Republican Convention, where she was verbally and physically assaulted, to the murders of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk, to the outbreak of the AIDS epidemic to the 9-11 terrorist attacks and to the historic election of Barack Obama as President of the United States in 2008.

Davis continues to observe and cover some of the major stories of the day for one of the nation’s top PBS stations, KQED.  

Along her journey, Davis has traveled the world and met cultural and political icons like Frank Sinatra, Malcolm X, Alex Haley, Black Panther leader Huey Newton, and Cuba’s Fidel Castro. Entertainer Bill Cosby says this about the pioneer journalist: “Belva Davis was someone who sustained us, who made us proud …  She was the first woman of color that many viewers came to know and trust, and she met that challenge with integrity and dignity and grace.”    

I went from a proud fan watching Davis on television to a young journalist inspired and mentored by her. In fact, a co-worker at a station in San Jose, my first job after college, recommended me to Davis and that led to my first real television newsroom job at KPIX in San Francisco. I moved up quickly from production assistant to writer and to producer of the noon news, where one of my co-anchors was the legendary Belva Davis. In a short time, I was off to Southern California for a position as a newswriter/occasional field producer at KNBC-TV. I never forgot the lessons learned working with Davis at KPIX.

Photo credit William V. Moore --- Belva Davis, Author/Reporter/ TV News Host

Today Davis launches a book tour for “Never in My Wildest Dreams” with appearances in San Francisco, Atlanta, Washington, DC, Chicago, New York, and here in Southern California: including stops at Vroman’s bookstore in Pasadena on February 28, Agape International Spiritual Center in Culver City on February 27, and Eso Won bookstore in Los Angeles on March 1.

Comcast completes deal for NBC Universal

The largest cable company in the country is now the proud owner of an entertainment giant, NBC Universal. Comcast announced today that its deal to buy 51 per cent of NBC Universal is done. General Electric hangs onto the other 49 percent.

Comcast began celebrating before the deal officially closed yesterday. Last Thursday,  Comcast sent out a memo and gifts to NBC Universal employees. First, the name change to NBCUniversal. Then the gifts, 25 shares of Comcast and free passes to Universal theme parks. The Wrap has more on this mega-deal, it’s impact on the industry and consumers.  

Charlie Sheen in rehab, TV show on hiatus

To no one’s surprise, troubled actor, Charlie Sheen, is in rehab this weekend. The “Two and a Half Men” star reportedly entered rehab yesterday after being rushed to the hospital with what was described as abdominal pain.  People has more on the latest in the up-and-down Charlie Sheen saga.

William & Kate’s wedding to be televised big time

Photo: Suzanne Plunkett/Reuters/Landov/People -- Prince William and Kate Middleton at their first official appearance today after the announcement of their engagement November 16, 2010

The wedding of Britain’s Prince William to his lady-love Kate Middleton is expected to draw more than two billion TV viewers worldwide. Back in 1981, around 750 million tuned in to watch Prince Charles marry Lady Diana Spencer. Yes, we love these British affairs!! 

William and Kate are set to exchange vows on April 29. Most likely the BBC will lead the TV coverage. There is talk of filming the event in 3D. More about what is definitely the wedding of the year — maybe even the decade— here on Deadline.com   

Updated: Saturday, January 22nd, 2011

The sudden departure of Keith Olbermann from MSNBC really has folks talking. There are articles about Olbermann’s exit all over the Internet — and much speculation about what went down — and what soured the relationship between the controversial commentator and the cable network.

Some new details from an insider over on Deadline.com. Also, this post has more than 12-hundred –that’s right — comments so far. Check it out here.

Outspoken MSNBC host, Keith Olbermann, has been given the hook. Tonight the controversial commentator abruptly signed off for good on his TV news and political commentary program, ”Countdown with Keith Olbermann.”

Olbermann thanked his viewers for their loyalty and support, but didn’t say why he was calling it quits on the cable network. 

On the MSNBC website, an article about Olbermann’s departure provided the company line: “MSNBC and Keith Olbermann have ended our contract,” Phil Griffin, president of MSNBC. Griffin went on to say: “MSNBC thanks Keith for his integral role in MSNBC’s success and we wish him well in his future endeavors.” This tells us what, but not why it happened.

Did Olbermann get swept out in the housecleaning by the Comcast  executives taking over NBC Universal? A spokesman for MSNBC denied that was the case.  Last November, there was more than a little tension between Olbermann and his bosses when he was suspended for two days for making donations to several political candidates — including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Arizona).

More on Olbermann, including video and transcript of his farewell here on the MSNBC website.

Opening in theaters today

A new romantic comedy is challenging “The Green Hornet” at the Box Office this weekend. “No Strings Attached” hits movie theaters today and it stars Natalie Portman and Ashton Kutcher. The script revolves around a couple of friends who make a deal to have a “no strings attached” fling without the complication of falling in love. Yeah, right.

NBC Universal honcho Jeff Zucker’s final memo to staffers

Now that the Comcast NBC Universal merger is nearly complete, NBC Universal CEO Jeff Zucker has to move on. Today Zucker sent out a gracious farewell note to staffers. No rancor in it about being kicked to the curb by the Comcast team.  Check it out on The Wrap site.

Beyoncé to star in remake of “A Star Is Born” –Clint Eastwood will direct

A lot of folks in showbiz are chattering about the new remake of “A Star Is Born” — greenlighted with singer Beyoncé  Knowles in the lead role. This will be the fourth big screen version of the story of a talented young woman who falls in love with a self-destructive male star. Her career rises — while his tanks. Heavyweight Clint Eastwood has signed on to direct.

While there is some grumbling about another re-do of this story — most of the debate is about the acting chops of Beyoncé. The singer has appeared in several movies. She’s not quite at the level of Judy Garland or Barbra Streisand — but you never know what could happen.  Remember first timer, Jennifer Hudson, won the Academy Award for best supporting actress for her powerful performance in the movie adaptation of the Broadway musical ”Dreamgirls” (2006). Beyoncé was in that musical as well. Maybe “A Star Is Born” will be her big chance to really shine.

More on the “A Star Is Born” remake and debate on deadline.com – including more than 200 comments.

Comcast NBC Universal merger almost a done deal 

It took more than a year, but the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Justice today gave the thumbs up to that huge Comcast NBC Universal  merger today. The mega deal is said to be worth $30 billion. It is expected to be finalized by the end of the month. The Wrap has more on this development here.

“The Green Hornet” wins Box Office crown

The superhero action comedy, “The Green Hornet,” is the new king of the Box Office. Over the weekend, the new 3D flick scooped up $33.5 million and a tally of $40 million over the long MLK four day holiday weekend.

Coming in a distant second, the new adult comedy, “The Dilemma,” with $17.8 million for the weekend. Perhaps, the bland title and dull movie poster  were a turn off for movie fans. The movie, directed by Ron Howard, has an interesting premise — A guy has to figure out how to tell his best friend that his wife is cheating on him — without jeopardizing their friendship and working relationship. Vince Vaughn, Kevin James, Winona Ryder, Queen Latifah are in the cast.

The western remake, “True Grit,” wrangled up $11 million, which was good enough for third place. Rounding out the top five the dramas, “The King’s Speech” with $9. 1 million and “Black Swan” with $8.3 million.

“The Social Network” collects more awards

“The Social Network” is packing a lot of Oscar heat after winning a slew of awards — including best drama, director, screenplay, and film score at the  much-maligned-but-attention-grabbing Golden Globes last Sunday.

The Golden Globe for best film actor in a drama went to Colin Firth for his role in “The King’s Speech.”  Natalie Portman took home best actress in a drama for her turn in “Black Swan.” The full list of Golden Globe winners here.

Some of the Oscar mystery will be solved when the nominations are announced later this month on Tuesday, January 25. The 83rd Academy Awards ceremony is set for Sunday, February 27, 2011 at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood.

Judge dismisses charges against Anna Nicole Smith’s boyfriend

Photo: www.theinsider.com --Actress Anna Nicole Smith and her attorney Howard K. Stern in 2007

In a surprise decision, a Los Angeles Superior Court Judge today threw out the charges against Anna Nicole Smith’s long-time boyfriend/attorney, Howard K. Stern. Last October, a jury found Stern guilty of two conspiracy felony charges in connection with drugs prescribed for Smith — who died of an accidental overdose February 7, 2007.

Also, the judge reduced from four to one — the charges against one of Smith’s doctors — saying the evidence did not support the charges. More on the judge’s decision and the prosecution’s reaction on the People website.

Day three of Michael Jackson’s doctor’s hearing

More dramatic revelations today in the Los Angeles hearing to determine if there is enough evidence for Dr.Conrad Murray to stand trial in the death of Michael Jackson. Murray was apparently engaged in phone conversations and texting when he should have been paying attention to the medicated superstar according to records presented in court.

On June 25, 2009, paramedics rushed the singer from his rented Holmby Hills mansion to the UCLA Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. Later, the Los Angeles Coroner’s office ruled the entertainer’s death a homicide — the result of an overdose of the powerful anesthetic, propofol, which was being given to him as a sleeping aid.

A report on the hearing and the testimony on the Los Angeles Times website site.

2011 People’s choice Awards

The movie blockbuster, “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse,” snatched four top awards at the People’s Choice Awards last night at the Nokia Theatre Live L.A. in downtown Los Angeles. Among the People’s Choice awards for this “Twilight” sequel, favorite movie and favorite movie drama.

These award winners for film, television and music are selected by the fans.  A list of the winners, the nominees, photos and videos and more on the People’s Choice website.

Director Blake Edwards dies at 88

The director of such notable films as “Operation Petticoat” (1959), “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961), ”The Pink Panther” films (1963, 1964, 1975, 1978),  and “10″ (1979), has died. The Los Angeles Times is reporting today that Blake Edwards passed away yesterday in Santa Monica, with his wife, actress Julie Andrews, and close family at his bedside.  More on the  director’s death and career highlights on the Times’ website.

Screen Actors Guild Awards nominees

The nominees for the 17th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards were announced in West Hollywood today. The awards ceremony will be at the Los Angeles Shrine Exposition Center next month, on January 30.

 Here are some of the actors and actresses lucky enough to get nominated by their peers for outstanding performances in 2010. The full list of movie and television nominations is on the  SAG website.

• Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role
  JEFF BRIDGES / Rooster Cogburn – “TRUE GRIT” (Paramount Pictures)
  ROBERT DUVALL / Felix Bush – “GET LOW” (Sony Pictures Classics)
  JESSE EISENBERG / Mark Zuckerberg – “THE SOCIAL NETWORK” (Columbia Pictures)
  COLIN FIRTH / King George VI – “THE KING’S SPEECH” (The Weinstein Company)
  JAMES FRANCO / Aron Ralston – “127 HOURS” (Fox Searchlight Pictures)

• Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role
  ANNETTE BENING / Nic – “THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT” (Focus Features)
  NICOLE KIDMAN / Becca – “RABBIT HOLE” (Lionsgate)
  JENNIFER LAWRENCE / Ree Dolly – “WINTER’S BONE” (Roadside Attractions)
  NATALIE PORTMAN / Nina Sayers – “BLACK SWAN” (Fox Searchlight Pictures)
  HILARY SWANK / Betty Anne Waters – “CONVICTION” (Fox Searchlight Pictures)

• Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role
  CHRISTIAN BALE / Dicky Eklund – “THE FIGHTER” (Paramount Pictures)
  JOHN HAWKES / Teardrop – “WINTER’S BONE” (Roadside Attractions)
  JEREMY RENNER / James Coughlin – “THE TOWN” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
  MARK RUFFALO / Paul – “THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT” (Focus Features)
  GEOFFREY RUSH / Lionel Logue – “THE KING’S SPEECH” (The Weinstein Company)

• Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role
  AMY ADAMS / Charlene Fleming – “THE FIGHTER” (Paramount Pictures)
  HELENA BONHAM CARTER / Queen Elizabeth – “THE KING’S SPEECH” (The Weinstein Company)
  MILA KUNIS / Lily – “BLACK SWAN” (Fox Searchlight Pictures)
  MELISSA LEO / Alice Ward – “THE FIGHTER” (Paramount Pictures)
  HAILEE STEINFELD / Mattie Ross – “TRUE GRIT” (Paramount Pictures)

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Disney Studios in Burbank

Disney is reportedly shelling out big bucks for a new deal with Netflix, the online streaming video and by mail DVD service.  The Los Angeles Times says the agreement is worth $200 million and will give Netflix access to a trove of popular television shows from ABC network, Disney Channel, and ABC Family.

Disney made the deal with NetFlix, even though, it’s a part owner in rival Internet streaming video provider, Hulu. The deal sounds like a win-win situation for Netflix users who get unlimited television shows and movies for one low flat-rate monthly fee. More details on the Times website.

Here we go again. MSNBC TV Host, Joe Scarborough, was suspended today for making donations to eight political campaigns from 2004-to-2008. MSNBC President, Phil Griffin, announced a two-day suspension without pay for Scarborough saying he “… will return to the air on Wednesday, November 24th.”

Scarborough is a former Republican congressman from Florida. His punishment was similar to that received by MSNBC host, Keith Olbermann, on November 5. NBC News policy forbids political contributions by its journalists without prior approval of the company president. NBC is the parent company of MSNBC.

Olbermann was testy about his suspension and claimed to be unaware of the policy. On the other hand, Scarborough showed more grace. He issued a statement saying he agreed with Griffin’s decision and apologized to MSNBC “…and to anyone who has been negatively affect by my actions.”

Sony Pictures just launched a search for fans with the right stuff to be in some of its productions. The kick off of this virtual talent search from the entertainment giant was announced in a PRNewswire release today. Sony’s new motto, “turning today’s fans into tomorrow’s stars.”

The search is through casting calls and contests on a new Sony website faceofthefan.com   The ongoing program includes Sony Pictures properties in film, television, and online.

In the release, Screen Gems President, Clint Culpepper, gives thumbs-up to the new site: “The Face of the Fan program enables us to source people from all over the country to find unknown talent and give them a shot at something they may not have otherwise been able to do.”

On the site, there’s a casting call for a pivotal role of a young female character in the latest installment of the action franchise, “Underworld.”  Fans can participate in the search by downloading script pages to rehearse and then uploading audition videos and their credentials for considerations. If you don’t get that part — you might get a call from a casting agent for another role. A Hollywood career could be just a mouse click away.