Britney's Visitation Suspended

After a standoff with police and a rush to the hospital, Britney Spears's visitation rights have been suspended until January 14th. Afterward, there will be a hearing on what happens next. For now, Kevin Federline has sole custody of the couple's two children.

Zoey Cancelled

Jamie Lynn Spears's, Britney Spears's pregnant teenage sister, Nickelodeon tv show Zoey 101 has been cancelled amidst the pregnancy scandal. Spears taped the fourth season of the show but the network is unsure whether or not to air the final season.

Pollspot: On To New Hampshire

Unfortunately, due to Senator Barack Obama's annoying victory in last night's Iowa Caucus, these decent poll numbers for Senator Hillary Clinton may not be so good when a post-caucus poll is taken.

Democrats:
Reuters/C-SPAN/Zogby: Clinton 32%, Obama 26%, Edwards 20%
7NEWS/Suffolk University: Clinton 37%, Obama 25%, Edwards 15%
American Research Group: Clinton 35%, Obama 31%, Edwards 15%

As for Republicans, it is a toss up between Senator John McCain and former governor Mitt Romney.

Republicans:
Reuters/C-SPAN/Zogby: McCain 34%, Romney 30%, Huckabee 10%
7NEWS/Suffolk University: Romney 29%, McCain 25%, Huckabee 13%
American Research Group: McCain 35%, Romney 25%, Huckabee 12%

The New Hampshire primary is this Tuesday.

Source: Political Wire

New Bond Girl Cast

British actress Gemma Arterton will be the next Bond girl alongside Daniel Craig. This will be the 22nd James Bond film and it will pick up right after the events of 2006's Casino Royale.

Actors Will Not Attend Globes

The Screen Actor's Guild announced today none of it's actors/members would be present at the Golden Globe Awards due to the strike of the Writer's Guild of America. NBC said the award telecast would go on as planned next Sunday.

Source: Variety

Gravel Still In It

Image courtesy of Current

Despite MSNBC reporting that former Democratic Alaska senator Mike Gravel had dropped out of the 2008 presidential race, this report is false and he is still in the race despite a poor finish in last night's Iowa caucus.

Barack Obama Gains Momentum as Change Wins Out in Iowa

Image Courtesy of M. Spencer Green/AP (MSNBC.com)

You know, they said this day would never come. They said our sights were set too high. They said this country was too divided, too disillusioned to ever come together around a common purpose.

But on this January night, at this defining moment in history, you have done what the cynics said we couldn't do.

Those words could not be more true. It was this defining speech by Democratic Presidential candidate, Barack Obama, following his victory in the Iowa caucuses last night, that proved change is on its way. The Senator came out in the lead with 38%, followed by 30% for John Edwards, and 29% for third place finisher, Hillary Clinton.

The race remained close throughout the night up until Obama pulled forward towards the end with a first place position. The momentum is there and you better believe it will be a big part of what determines the vote in New Hampshire. From last nights' survey polls, voters found that the most important personal quality a candidate should have was bringing about needed change, in which Obama fit the bill.

What's next? New Hampshire. A whole new ball game, yet one that will surely be the focus of Hillary Clinton as she will desperately try to stop Obama in his tracks. The upcoming debate in New Hampshire this Saturday will be crucial, with the primary only four days away. Independent voters came out strong in supporting Obama in Iowa. Can they do the same in New Hampshire? John McCain's ability to gain many of those independents cannot be brushed aside too quickly either. Only time will tell.

Things are starting to heat up and anything can happen in the next few days. As an Obama supporter, I am thrilled with the results in Iowa and, as Barack said, New Hampshire can do the same. We all can. We can bring about real change. Change we can believe in.

Movie Trailer: Prom Night

Although slasher pics are always terrible (sometimes so terrible that they are good), this Prom Night remake, starring Brittany Snow, looks like it might have some bite to it.

Click here for the trailer

Trouble for Britney

Britney Spears was transported to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center last night after police were called to her house to held end a nearly three-hour custody standoff involving her two children, Jayden James and Sean Preston. Rumors (and keep in mind that this is simply a rumor) say that Spears has been placed under suicide watch. This is all just tragic.

Source: MSNBC

Joseph Biden Drops Out

Delaware Democratic Senator Joe Biden has dropped out of the presidential race after a disappointing finish in Iowa.

Source: MSNBC

Chris Dodd to Drop Out

Connecticut Democratic Senator Chris Dodd is expected to announce he is dropping out of the race after a disappointing performance in the Iowa caucus.

Source: CNN

Mike Huckabee Wins in Iowa

In a surprising finish, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee has won the Iowa caucus. Mitt Romney finished second. The race for third place is still on between Fred Thompson and John McCain.

Barack Obama Wins in Iowa

Image courtesy of Wonkette

Senator Barack Obama is the projected winner in Iowa with John Edwards and Hillary Clinton close behind in 2nd and 3rd respectively.

Britney Deposed

After not showing up for Kevin Federline's lawyers five times, Britney Spears finally showed up today for her deposition.

Movie Trailer: Made of Honor

Grey's Anatomy fans can catch Patrick Dempsey starring in the romantic comedy Made of Honor hitting theaters this summer. Click here for the trailer.

27 Dresses Pushed Back

Grey's Anatomy fans waiting to see Katherine Heigl and James Marsden in their new film 27 Dresses will have to wait an extra week. The film has been pushed back from January 11th to January 18th for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. The film now faces stiff competiton from Cloverfield.

No Deal For Golden Globes

Despite a deal being in the works by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association to allow the Golden Globe Awards to proceed as normal on January 13th, the Writer's Guild of America has stated that "No way would the Hollywood Foreign Press Assn. gain an interim deal," said the guild. "The writers intend to picket the show."

Source: Variety

Caucus For Hillary

The Iowa Caucus is currently happening as we speak and The Green Room will have results later tonight when they are released. The Green Room urges and encourages Iowans to please caucus for Senator Hillary Clinton. She is the right and only choice.

Harry Potter to Go to War

Image courtesy of Enjoy France

The Guardian Unlimited reports that "Harry Potter" star Daniel Radcliffe will play Dan Eldon in the film Journey. Dan Eldon was a war photographer whose work has been widely acclaimed since his tragic death.

Golden Globes Seek Deal

Coming Soon is reporting here that the Hollywood Foreign Press Association is seeking a deal with the currently striking Writer's Guild of America to allow the Golden Globe Award ceremony to go on without any picketing and to hopefully allow actor participation and attendance.

A Message From Hillary

The Green Room encourages Iowans to go forth tomorrow and caucus for Senator Hillary Clinton.

Edwards Memo Shows Tie

A campaign memo from John Edwards averaged the nine polls released since Christmas in Iowa. The average has Senator Hillary Clinton at 28.2%, Sen. Barack Obama at 27.5%, and John Edwards at 26.3%.

It's going to be a close one. The second choice ballot is going to be important.

Jessica Goes Country

Image courtesy of Ask Men

Singer Jessica Simpson has announced that her new album to be released this year will be a country music album. Jessica Simpson, while having a less successful recording career than her sister and the other pop divas, is known for being a pop music recording artist.

Sorry Jess, don't think your new album is going to sell any better than your last one. You are not Carrie Underwood.

Indiana Jones Goes Glam

Image courtesy of Vanity Fair

Stars of the new film Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull were shot by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz for the new issues of Vanity Fair. The film, starring Harrison Ford, Shia Labeouf, and Cate Blanchett, hits theaters this May. To check out the full article and interviews, click here!

Eddie Murphy Marries

Image Courtesy of Film

Eddie Murphy got married this past weekend to fiance Tracey Edmonds. The couple have dating for a little over a year. Spice Girl Melanie Brown gave birth to Eddie Murphy's baby last April.

Lancome Wears Prada

Image courtesy of Exposay

It was announced that The Devil Wears Prada star Anne Hathaway will be the new face of Lancome.

Pollspot: New Hampshire...Less Than A Week

A CNN/WMUR survey in New Hampshire finds Sen. John McCain and Mitt Romney tied for first place in next week's New Hampshire primary with 29% each. Rudy Giuliani is third with 12%, followed by Mike Huckabee at 10%.

The Democratic primary race is also neck-and-neck with Sen. Hillary Clinton in a statistical tie with Sen. Barack Obama. Clinton leads with 34%, followed by Obama at 30% and John Edwards at 17%.

Late Night Returns Tomorrow

Despite the ongoing strike by the Writer's Guild of America, five late night talk shows are all coming back on the air tomorrow with new episodes. While Jay Leno, Conan O'Brien, and Jimmy Kimmel will be coming back without their writing staff, David Letterman and Craig Ferguson struck a deal with the WGA that will allow their writing staff to come back to work with them. The deal might allow Letterman and Ferguson to book more high profile guests. Robin Williams is the first guest booked for Letterman and he will appear tomorrow. All in all, it's good to see some good entertainment returning.

Pakistani Elections Postponed

Following the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, the election committee in Pakistan has announced that the originally planned January 8th elections have now been postponed for at least 4 weeks.

Source: CNN

Pollspot: More Iowa

An InsiderAdvantage tracking poll in Iowa shows a statistical tie between Sen. Hillary Clinton and John Edwards in the Democratic presidential race with Sen. Barack Obama starting to lag.

Clinton leads with 30%, followed by Edwards at 29%, and Obama at 22%, with 14% committed to other candidates and 5% undecided. The poll has a margin of error of 3.4%.

Important finding: Edwards was the second choice of 62% of those who supported other candidates that did not receive the required 15% of the vote. Clinton was the second choice of 21% and Obama of 17%.

Pollspot: Neverending Polls

A new CNN/Opinion Research poll says Sen. Hillary Clinton and Mitt Romney are leading. For Democrats, Clinton leads with 33%, followed by Obama at 31% and Edwards at 22%.

For Republicans, Romney leads with 31%, followed by Huckabee at 28%, Thompson at 13% or McCain at 10%.

Pollspot: Des Moines Register

"The final Des Moines Register poll before the Iowa caucuses shows Sen. Barack Obama leading the Democratic presidential race with 32%, followed by Sen. Hillary Clinton with 25% and John Edwards with 24%. The survey's margin of error is 3.5%.

In the Republican race, Mike Huckabee leads with 32%, followed by Mitt Romney at 26% and Sen. John McCain at 13%.Caveat: "The poll reflects continued fluidity in the race even as the end of the yearlong campaign nears. Roughly a third of likely caucusgoers say they could be persuaded to choose someone else before Thursday evening.""

Courtesy of Political Wire

Pollspot: Clinton and McCain in NH

A new poll in New Hampshire shows Senators Hillary Clinton and John McCain expanding their leads in New Hampshire. The New Hampshire primary is in exactly one week.

New Hampshire:

A new 7News/Suffolk University poll in New Hampshire shows Sen. John McCain vaulting ahead of the Republican presidential field with 31% support, followed by Mitt Romney at 25%, Rudy Giuliani at 14% and Mike Huckabee at 9%.

On the Democratic side, the poll finds Sen. Hillary Clinton expanding her lead to 36%, followed by Sen. Barack Obama at 22% and John Edwards at 14%.

Courtesy of Political Wire

Happy New Year

The Green Room would like to wish everyone a safe and happy new year!

Hillary Picks Up 10th Senator

Image courtesy of Hillary Hub

Good news for the Hillary Clinton campaign as they prepare for the Iowa caucus. The campaign announced today the endorsement of Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington. Cantwell's endorsement makes Hillary's list of senate endorsements grow to 10. Senator Barack Obama has 2 senate endorsements while Bill Richardson and Senator Joe Biden each have one. John Edwards and Chris Dodd have none.

End of Year Box Office

2007 ends with National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets leading the box office. The new film Alien vs. Predator: Requiem tanked at the box office not even breaking the top 5. Serves the right for releasing it on Christmas. Meanwhile, well received Juno performed well and Sweeney Todd dropped to number 9.

Here's a rundown:

1. National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets - $35.6 million
2. Alvin and the Chipmunks - $30 million
3. I Am Legend - $27.5 million
4. Charlie Wilson's War - $11.7 million
5. Juno - $10.3 million

*Red indicates new to theaters

2007 Deadliest Year for Iraq (So Far)

While the second half of 2007 saw a dramatic drop in violence in Iraq, 2007 has been the deadliest year for the United States military since the invasion in 2003. 2007 saw the death of 899 U.S. troops. At least 3,902 U.S. troops have died since the start of this (pointless) war.

Source: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22451069/

Golden Globes Still On

Despite the Writer's Guild of America announcing that they will picket at the Golden Globes Ceremony, NBC has announced that the ceremony will go on as scheduled.

But will the actors show up? Probably not.

Pollspot: Republican National

Sen. John McCain leads a national Rasmussen tracking poll for the Republican presidential nomination. However, his lead of 17% is not statistically significant since his rivals are all within the poll's margin of error. Mitt Romney and Mike Huckabee are a point behind at 16% and Rudy Giuliani is two points back at 15%. Slightly off the pace, but still within five points of McCain, is Fred Thompson at 12%. This would make it a 5-way tie.

Jimmy Fallon Weds

Image courtesy of Ask Men

Lots of celebrity weddings recently! Former Saturday Night Live cast member Jimmy Fallon married his producing partner Nancy Juvonen yesterday. Congratulations!

Pollspot: New Hamsphire Tightens

According to Political Wire, "A new American Research Group poll in New Hampshire finds the Democratic presidential race tightening and the Republican race deadlocked.

Among Democrats, Sen. Hillary Clinton leads with 31% followed by Sen. Barack Obama at 27% and John Edwards at 21%. The poll has a margin of error of 4 points.

Key finding: Clinton has dropped 7 points in two weeks while Edwards has gained 6 points and Obama has gained 3 points. Undeclared voters provide positive playback for Edwards based on his television advertising running in New Hampshire and this is reflected in the ballot results. Edwards now leads Obama among undeclared voters 38% to 23%.

In the Republican race, Mitt Romney and Sen. John McCain remain tied at 30%, followed by Mike Huckabee at 11%, Rudy Giuliani at 9% and Rep. Ron Paul at 7%.

Pollspot: 4 Days To Iowa

According to Political Wire, a new McClatchy-MSNBC poll in Iowa shows a statistical dead heat in the Democratic presidential race and a big shift in the Republican race. John Edwards leads with 24%, followed by Sen. Hillary Clinton with 23% and Sen. Barack Obama with 22%. Edwards has the momentum since the last poll in early December gaining 3 points, while Clinton lost 4 points and Obama lost 3 points.

Among Republicans, Mitt Romney has regained the lead as Mike Huckabee "has lost momentum and support, even among evangelical Christians who had propelled him into the top spot just weeks ago." Romney now leads with 27%, followed by Huckabee at 23%, Fred Thompson at 14%, and Sen. John McCain at 13%. Huckabee is down 8 points since earlier this month, while Romney is up 7 points.

The Green Room is a big supporter of Senator Hillary Clinton and encourages her Iowan supporters to go out and caucus for her this Thursday, January 3rd.

Pollspot: Zogby Iowa

A Reuters/C-Span/Zogby tracking poll released today shows that on the Democratic side, there is a three-way statistical tie with Sen. Hillary Clinton leading with 30.7% support, followed by Sen. Barack Obama at 26.8% and John Edwards at 24.2%. The poll's margin of error is 3.3%.

On the Republican side, there is also a tie for first place. Mike Huckabee leads with 27.7%, followed by Mitt Romney at 26.6%, Sen. John McCain at 10.9%, Fred Thompson at 7.8% and Rudy Giuliani at 7.3%. The poll's margin of error is 3.4%.

Courtesy of Political Wire.

The Iowa Caucus will be held Thursday.

Countdown to Iowa: 4 days

Longer post forthcoming, but an interesting article I came upon about Obama and his foreign policy experience, or rather, lack thereof.

From the Washington Post

Pollspot: The Poll With Different Results

According to Political Wire, A new American Research Group poll in Iowa continues to be an outlier among the various public surveys that have shown a statistical tie in the Democratic race for president.

On the Democratic side, the poll finds Sen. Hillary Clinton leads with 31%, followed by John Edwards and Barack Obama at 24% each.

On the Republican side, Mitt Romney leads with 32% support, followed by Mike Huckabee at 23%, and Sen. John McCain at 11%.

Clinton & Obama Buy Major Ad Time

With the Iowa Caucus less than a week away, the Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama campaigns are buying major ad time in the state. ABC News "has learned that Sen. Barack Obama's campaign is trying to buy advertising time on the night before the caucuses for a live political commercial, to air statewide." Meanwhile, Sen. Hillary Clinton's campaign "announced on Thursday that she would buy a two minute block of time on every 6pm newscast in the state."

No Charges for Brandy

The L.A. City Attorney has decided not to file charges against R&B singer Brandy Norwood over the fatal car accident she was in last year.

Confusion Surrounding Bhutto's Death

Image courtesy of Harry Walker

Controversy continues to build around the assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Today, Pakistan's Interior Ministry says that Bhutto was killed when she fractured her skull when she hit her head on her car's sunroof after a bomb exploded. Yesterday, the Ministry said she was killed due to shots from the bomber before changing their story and saying Bhutto was killed due to a shrapnel injury from the bomb. The story keeps changing and Pakistani President Musharraf's administration is losing its already low credibility. Bhutto went on record before her death stating that if she were to be assassinated that Musharraf would be to blame. Also noteworthy is the lack of security surrounding Bhutto at the time of her death. Meanwhile, Al-Qaeda may also have had some involvement in her death. For more on this story, click here.

Pollspot: No Budge in Iowa

Another poll still shows an extremely close race in Iowa.

A new Research 2000 poll in Iowa shows the Democratic presidential race is a virtual three-way tie, with John Edwards rising to tie Sen. Barack Obama for the lead and Sen. Hillary Clinton just one point behind. Edwards and Obama each get 29% support, with Clinton behind with 28%.

On the Republican side, Mike Huckabee remains in the lead with a 7-point edge over Mitt Romney, 34% to 27%. Fred Thompson is a distant third with 11%, followed by a three-way tie for fourth between Rudy Giuliani, John McCain and Ron Paul, with 8% each.

Key finding: "There is plenty of room for shifts in the final days before the Jan. 3 caucuses, with 19 percent of Democrats and 31 percent of Republicans saying they are likely or very likely to change their minds."

Courtesy of Political Wire

Divorce for Penn

Image courtesy of BBC

Academy Award winner Sean Penn and his wife of 11 years, actress Robin Wright, are divorcing. Penn was previously married to Madonna.

Wedding Bells for Fergie

Image courtesy of MSNBC

Stacy "Fergie" Ferguson of the Black Eyed Peas and actor Josh Duhamel are engaged.

iTunes: The New Blockbuster

Apple and Fox will sign a deal that will allow films to be rented on iTunes. iTunes currently offers a selection of movies for sale at $9.99 in addition to tv show episodes costing $1.99. The rental service is expected to cost between $2 and $5. Films rented will be available for a 24-hour period. The service will begin early next year. For more on the story, click here.

Pollspot: Anyone's Game

These polls are seriously all over the place. Political Wire brings to our attention two more polls today inr egards to Iowa and New Hampshire.

Iowa:

A new Los Angeles Times/Bloomberg poll in Iowa finds a three way statistical tie among likely caucus goers with Sen. Hillary Clinton at 31%, John Edwards at 25% and Sen. Barack Obama at 22%.

Among likely Republican caucus goers, Mike Huckabee leads with 36%, followed by Mitt Romney at 28%, Fred Thompson at 10%, Sen. John McCain at 8%, and Rudy Giuliani at 8%.

New Hampshire:

A new Los Angeles Times/Bloomberg poll in New Hampshire finds Sen. Barack Obama leading likely primary voters with 32%, Sen. Hillary Clinton at 30%, and John Edwards at 20%.

Among likely Republican primary voters, Mitt Romney leads with 34%, followed by Sen. John McCain at 20%, Rudy Giuliani at 17%, and Mike Huckabee at 12%.

Pollspot: Deadlocked Iowa

Political Wire is reporting on a new Strategic Vision (R) poll from Iowa that shows both the Republican and Democratic presidential races essentially tied.

For Democrats, it's Obama at 30%, Clinton at 29% and Edwards at 28%.

For Republicans, it's Huckabee at 29%, Romney at 27%, Thompson at 15%; and McCain at 14%.

The poll, which has a 4.5% margin of error, was taken over the last two days.

Courtesy of Political Wire

Jessica Alba Engaged

Actress Jessica Alba and her boyfriend Cash Warren are engaged. This has been confirmed by Alba's publicist. Jessica Alba announced she was pregnant earlier this month.

Mischa Barton Arrested

Image courtesy of Reuters

Former The OC star Mischa Barton was arrested this morning for DUI.

Turmoil in Pakistan

Benazir Bhutto

1953-2007

Major news today out of Pakistan with the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. A suicide bomber shot Bhutto and then blew himself up killing himself and 22 others. It's unclear whether Bhutto died from the shot or from the blast. Bhutto was the first female prime minister of the nation and led Pakistan from 1988 to 1990 and again from 1993 to 1996. After living in exile, Bhutto returned to Pakistan this past October after President Musharraf signed an amnesty deal. While she had great support in the nation, she also faced a very strong and violent opposition. For more on this developing story, please visit CNN.

Movie Trailer: The Other Boleyn Girl

Image courtesy of IMDB

Click here to see the trailer for The Other Boleyn Girl starring Eric Bana, Natalie Portman, and Scarlett Johansson. The film hits theaters this coming February.

Merry Christmas

The Green Room would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

Pollspot: Who Knows Anymore

Things really do change in Iowa every day. I hope this poll is correct!

A new American Research Group poll in Iowa shows Sen. Hillary Clinton expanding her lead in the last week. Clinton now leads with 34%, followed by John Edwards at 20%, and Sen. Barack Obama at 19%.

In the GOP race, Mike Huckabee leads at 23%, trailed by Mitt Romney at 21%, Sen. John McCain at 17%, Rudy Giuliani at 14% and Rep. Ron Paul at 10%.

Courtesy of Political Wire

Katherine Heigl Ties the Knot

Image courtesy of All Posters

Grey's Anatomy and Knocked Up star Katherine Heigl married boyfriend Josh Kelley this past weekend. Her Grey's co-stars were in attendance. Heigl will next be seen on the big screen in 27 Dresses alongside James Marsden. Congratulations to the couple.

Box Office Report

Nicholas Cage rules the box office leading into Christmas. National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets, one of five new movies, was able to become the top grossing film this past weekend. Appearances by Johnny Depp, Will Smith, Julia Roberts, and Tom Hanks helped the weekend become a big earner for Hollywood.

Here is an estimated rundown:

1. National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets - $45.5 million
2. I Am Legend - $34.3 million
3. Alvin and the Chipmunks - $29 million
4. Charlie Wilson's War - $9.6 million
5. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street - $9.3 million

*Red indicates movie new to theaters.

Sweeney Todd

Image courtesy of Broadway World

The Green Room highly recommends Tim Burton's new film, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, starring Johnny Depp. Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen also star in the Stephen Sondheim penned movie musical. The movie opened to overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Pollspot: Boston Globe Shows Obama Edge

Image courtesy of The Boston Globe

A new Boston Globe poll released today shows Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton virtually tied in New Hampshire. Obama leads Clinton 30 - 28%. However that is within the polls margin of error of +/- 5 points. On the Republican side, John McCain also appears to be closing in and tying former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney. It could be all over for Romney if he loses Iowa to Mike Huckabee and New Hamsphire to John McCain.

Pollspot: Obama Catches Hillary

According to Political Wire, a new USA Today/Gallup poll of New Hampshire voters shows Sen. Hillary Clinton and Sen. Barack Obama tied at 32%, with John Edwards at 18%.On the Republican side, Mitt Romney leads John McCain, 34% to 27%."Effectively tied for third place are former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, at 11%, and former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee and Texas Rep. Ron Paul, each at 9%."

Tom Tancredo Drops Out

Republican presidential hopeful Tom Tancredo has dropped out of the presidential race.

Good riddance!

The Secret Life of Bees

ComingSoon is reporting that Jennifer Hudson, Queen Latifah, and Sophie Okonedo have signed on to star in The Secret Life of Bees, based on the novel by Sue Monk Kidd. Also, in final negotiations to star in the film are Alicia Keys and Dakota Fanning.

The film is set in 1964 South Carlolina and centers on Lily Owens (Dakota Fanning), who escapes her lonely life and problematic relationship with her father by running away with her only friend (Jennifer Hudson) to a town that holds the secrets to her mother's past. There she is taken in by an eccentric trio of beekeeping sisters (Keys, Latifah, Okonedo).

Pollspot: Getting Down to the Wire

The Iowa Caucus is fast approaching and it continues to look like a 3-way tie between Obama, Clinton, and Edwards for the Democrats. Take a look at some polls courtesy of Politcial Wire:

American Research Group:

The American Research Group released new polls from Iowa and New Hampshire, but both show results very different than almost every other recently published poll.

Democrats:
In Iowa, Sen. Hillary Clinton leads among Democrats with 29% followed closely by Sen. Barack Obama with 25% and John Edwards with 18%. Obama has the softest support in Iowa among Democrats, with 25% of his supporters say they might change their minds.

In New Hampshire, Clinton leads with 38%, followed by Obama at 24%, and Edwards at 15%.

Republicans:
In Iowa, Mike Huckabee leads with 28%, followed by John McCain at 20%, Mitt Romney at 17%, and Rudy Giuliani at 13%. Huckabee's support in Iowa is the softest among Republicans, with 62% of his supporters saying they might change their minds.

In New Hampshire, Romney and McCain are tied at 26% each.

Strategic Vision:

A new Strategic Vision poll in Iowa that also shows the Democratic presidential race in a statistical tie. Sen. Barack Obama leads with 30%, followed by John Edwards and Sen. Hillary Clinton tied at 27%.For Republicans, Mike Huckabee leads with 31%, followed by Mitt Romney at 25%, Fred Thompson at 16%, Sen. John McCain at 8%, Rudy Giuliani at 6%.

CNN:

A new CNN/Opinion Research poll shows the Democratic race for president in a statistical tie. Sen. Hillary Clinton leads with 30%, followed by Sen. Barack Obama at 28% and John Edwards at 26% -- all within the poll's margin of error of four points.

On the Republican side, Mike Huckabee leads with 33%, followed by Mitt Romney at 25%, and Rudy Giuliani at 11%.

Britney's Sister Expecting

Image courtesy of Evil Beet Gossip

Jamie Lynn Spears, the 16-year-old younger sister of Britney Spears, has announced that she is expecting her first child.

WGA & the Golden Globes

The Writer's Guild of America has announced that they will be picketing outside the Golden Globes ceremony next month. This will lead to quite a different ceremony and many wonder if any actors will show up and cross the picket lines to attend the ceremony. The WGA strike is now in its 7th week.

Pollspot: Iowa, NH, and National

While Senator Clinton has lost some of her power since I've been away in Europe, I still believe that she can and will win the Democratic Party's nomination. More importantly, I still believe in her. Here are some polls courtesy of Political Wire:

Iowa:

The latest Washington Post/ABC News poll shows Sen. Barack Obama leading the Democratic field with 33%, followed by Sen. Hillary Clinton at 29%, Edwards at 20% and Gov. Bill Richardson at 8%.

Key finding: "Each of the leading contenders appears to enjoy distinct advantages. More of Obama's backers said they are certain to participate than did those who have gotten behind Clinton. But Clinton's supporters are the most committed and enthusiastic, and Edwards counts among his supporters experienced caucus attendees who are more likely to turn out again."

New Hampshire:

A new CNN/WMUR poll shows Sen. Hillary Clinton regaining her lead in New Hampshire -- thanks to a boost in support from older Democratic voters. Clinton leads with 38%, followed by Sen. Barack Obama with 26% and John Edwards at 14%.

In the Republican race, Mitt Romney is still out in front with 34%, followed by Sen. John McCain at 22% and Rudy Giuliani at 16%.

National:

A new Reuters/Zogby national poll shows Mike Huckabee surging into a virtual tie with Rudy Giuliani in the Republican presidential race. Huckabee is now just one point behind Giuliani, 23% to 22%.

Among Democrats, Sen. Hillary Clinton's national edge also shrunk, though she's still eight points ahead of Sen. Barack Obama, 40% to 32%.

Journeys with John: Athens

November 30th - December 2nd, 2007

This concludes the Journeys with John series. I return to the United States this week.

Journeys with John: Rome

Journeys with John: Venice

November 20-21, 2007

Journeys with John: Prague

Nov 15-19

Journeys with John: Paris

November 8-11th, 2007

Journeys with John: Salzburg, Austria

Nov 1 - 4 2007

Journeys with John: Brussels

10/18/07

Journeys with John: Barcelona

10/10-10/13/2007

Journeys with John: London

10/2/2007 - 10/10/2007

Journeys with John: Berlin

September 28-30

Journeys with John: Glasgow/Edinburgh

September 21-23

Sherri Shepherd is a Half-wit

The new host Sherri Shepard was on "The View" today. No I don't watch the show but I do love video clips of people making idiots out of themselves. Here's Sherri unsure whether the Earth is flat or not.

Photo courtesy of dlisted.com

Evel Dick Wins Big Brother 8

Although our obsession with Big Brother 8 has decreased considerably since we all went off to school for the semester, I've still been checking out the blogs to see who would win this season. And the votes are in: "Evel" Dick Donato won the $500,000 over his 20 year-old daughter Danielle, who walked off with $50,000. Despite coming into the Big Brother house as an estranged father and daughter , Dick always made it clear that his goal was to bring Danielle with him into the final 2, and make sure she got some money out of the deal. While I can't agree with his antics on the show, I can at least say that his intentions toward his daughter seem to have been good.

Thanks EW for the photo.

Sex and the City Begins Filming

The first shot of Sex and the City's big screen debut is here! The movie will star Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Cynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis, Chris Noth, David Eigenberg, Evan Handler and Jason Lewis in reprisals of their tv roles. A newcomer to the cast is Jennifer Hudson. See ETOnline for more.

I'm loving this picture of Big and Carrie. They both look great, and I love the dress. I was never a fan of these two together (how could anyone cheat on Aidan??) but in the end, even I agreed they were right for each other. We'll see how they do on the big screens...

Journeys with John: Rotterdam/Amsterdam

Rotterdam/Amsterdam, Netherlands

September 14-16, 2007

Emmy Winners

And the Emmys go to...

Supporting Actor (Comedy): Jeremy Piven, Entourage
Supporting Actor (Drama): Terry O'Quinn, Lost
Supporting Actress (Comedy): Jaime Pressly, My Name is Earl
Supporting Actress (Drama): Katherine Heigl, Gray's Anatomy
Series (Variety, Musical or Comedy): The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Lead Actor (Comedy): Rickey Gervais, Extras
Lead Actress (Comedy): America Ferrara, Ugly Betty
Lead Actress (Drama): Sally Field, Brothers and Sisters
Lead Actor (Drama): James Spader, Boston Legal
Comedy Series: 30 Rock
Drama Series: The Sopranos

No major surprises here, in my opinion. There was no one show that swept the awards this year, although ABC did very well with awards for Lost, Ugly Betty, Gray's Anatomy and others.

For a complete list of winners, check out the official Emmy Awards website.

In Theatres Now

There is a huge variety of movies in theatres right now. Sadly, I've been too busy making s'mores using a candle in my apartment to see them. Check these out and let me know how they are:

3:10 To Yuma: Christian Bale and Russell Crowe. Yum.
Across the Universe: Evan Rachel Wood stars in this Beatles musical, which looks innovative and interesting.
Mr. Woodcock: Why, Susan Sarandon, why???
Silk: East meets West story of a man who falls in love with a Japanese concubine, starring Kiera Knightly and Alfred Molina.
December Boys: I'll keep talking about this movie until I finally see it, which will probably be on DVD. Daniel Radcliff plays another orphaned boy looking for replacement parents.
The Brave One: Jodie Foster plays a wounded woman on a mission to find her fiance's killer.

Happy movie watching!

New Legislature By Dems Could Shift Iraq Plans Starting Now

According to the New York Times, Democrats in the Senate are pushing for new legislature which would require that soldiers spend as much time at home as they did overseas before they are redeployed. This strategy, proposed by Senator Jim Webb of Virgina, would force President Bush to begin bringing troops home from Iraq earlier than planned, and would reduce the stress and fatigue soldiers face. Democrats say they are close to having enough Republican support for this proposal to pass. For more info, see the full article.

Journeys with John: Kasteel Well

Kasteel Well is a Dutch landmark located in Well, Netherlands about 2 hours from Amsterdam. It's truly a beautiful place in a tiny village. Emerson College owns Kasteel Well and sends around 80 students each semester for the study abroad experience.

I've been in the Netherlands for nearly a week now. It's been busy but I managed to put together a quick (and very unprofessional) video of the Castle. I didn't bother doing voice overs because I'll just let the Castle speak for itself. I really do apologize for my lack of camera abilities but I'll get better. Coming soon will be more videos from Well, Netherlands but the next Journey with John is Rotterdam/Amsterdam.

Sources Confirm Israeli Airstrike on Syria

It has been confirmed that Israel carried out an airstrike inside Syria last week. Sources say Israeli forces may have been targeting weapons on their way to Hezbollah militants. For the full story, see CNN.com.

Jennifer Hudson Joins SATC

Image courtesy of People

Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson has joined the cast of the much anticipated Sex and the City motion picture. She will be playing Carrie Bradshaw's (Sarah Jessica Parker) secretary.

It's Official: Sherri on the View

Barbara Walters has made it official that Sherri Shepherd will be the new permanent panelist on The View. A great addition. I was still rooting for Kathy Griffin.

Pollspot: Clinton and Giuliani Still On Top

From Political Wire:

The new USA Today/Gallup Poll shows Rudy Giuliani leading the Republican presidential field with 34%, followed by Fred Thompson at 22%, Sen. John McCain at 15%, and Mitt Romney at 10%.

For the Democrats, Sen. Hillary Clinton continues to lead with 45% support, trailed by Sen. Barack Obama at 24% and John Edwards at 16%.

Key finding: Republican voters are somewhat more satisfied with their candidates: 70% say they're pleased with the choice; 26% would like a new candidate. In April, a third wanted additional choices.

A nice 21 point lead for Hillary!

Pollspot: New Mexico

Political Wire brings us a poll from New Mexico.

According to a new Albuquerque Journal poll, Gov. Bill Richardson leads the Democratic presidential race in his native New Mexico with 44% support, followed by Sen. Hillary Clinton at 17 percent, John Edwards at 8% and Sen. Barack Obama at 8%.

However, 52% of those surveyed thought Sen. Hillary Clinton would eventually win the Democratic nomination.

Clearly...he's a popular governor.