Meet American Idol's Finalists: Who Was in Hannah Montana? Who Collects Knives?

DeAndre Brackensick, Skylar Laine After a grueling, nausea-inducing Hollywood week and uneven semifinals, American Idol has chosen its Top 13, who begin the live final performances Wednesday (8/7c, Fox). TVGuide.com spent some time with the lucky 13, and learned more about the people behind those voices. The Voice: Tony Lucca on his MMC memories and Adam Levine's special brand of mojo The Top 13, in their own words: DeAndre Brackensick, 17, from San Jose, Calif.Risky business: "I was kind of preparing for a 'no' [from the judges] because although I was happy with my song choice, the key I did it in was a little shaky... I'm really known as a falsetto singer, which I love, but not a lot of people like that, so I tried to put some low into it. But the key in that first whole verse did not do good for me at all."Fun fact: "I love Hawaiian culture." Hollie Cavanagh, 18, from McKinney, TexasPetite powerhouse: "I like to think of my style along the lines of like Christina Aguilera - some pop but also a mature and soulful sound. My dream mentor would be Mariah Carey. That would be crazy."Fun fact: "I play soccer. Center midfielder." Colton Dixon, 20, from Murfreesboro, Tenn.Master of the keys: "The piano plays a huge part of me. That's my home, being on stage behind a piano. That's what I've grown up doing. But America gets tired of seeing the same thing, so I've got to break away from that."Fun Fact: "I was an extra in the Hannah Montana movie." Heejun Han, 22, from Flushing, N.Y.All heart: "As an artist, I want to be a person who can move people's hearts. For [theme weeks], I'd like the '70s, '80s and lovely, lovely slow songs where you could just melt the girls' hearts. Tony Bennett. James Ingram. Michael McDonald. All of the people who have unexpected voices. 'Once in My Life' covered by Stevie Wonder is my favorite song."Fun fact(s): "I can eat a whole cup o' noodles in less than 10 seconds. I can fold my tongue in half. Also, I can switch my kidneys. Ready? (pauses) I just did it." Fall TV Scorecard: Is your favorite series in danger? Jermaine Jones, 25, Pine Hill, N.J.Balance of power: "You can expect some power. You can expect some very nice high notes. Everybody expects me to just have this low voice, but also I have a falsetto... I'm not really afraid of anything. I love country music. Rascal Flatts, 'Bless the Broken Road' - love it!"Fun fact: "I'm 6'8" and a half -- and don't take away my half." Skylar Laine, 18, Brandon, Miss.Country strong: "That was the first time I've ever heard that I sounded like Reba [McEntire]... They said [I was] Tina Turner, Kelly Clarkson and Reba all mixed into one... I would love to see Miranda Lambert be a theme, but I don't know that would happen. But someone like Waylon [Jennings], Kris Kristofferson or someone like that. George Jones even."Fun fact: "I have a small collection of knives. I love to hunt. During deer-hunting season I try to go every day. I went so much this past year before I came to Idol." Joshua Ledet, 19, Westlake, Calif.Male power diva: "I'm like a male version of Christina Aguilera. Them telling me [I'm called] 'Man-tasia' is crazy... it's the biggest compliment anyone has ever [given] me. Fantasia Barrino is an amazing singer, my favorite singer, my favorite artist ever. She sings from her soul and where she comes from inspires me."Fun fact: "I'm addicted to spicy foods. I love crawfish. Oh my God, it's so messy but it's so good. I don't like LA food at all." Shannon Magrane, 16, Tampa, Fla.Idol inspirations: "I love Haley Reinhart. I love the growl that she has in her voice. I have a little growl in my voice so I relate to that. I love Carrie Underwood because she was this classy, sweet little girl and she had a really pure voice. And I also love Kelly Clarkson because her music is timeless. She won 10 seasons ago and her music is still very popular today."Fun fact: "I dream of this all the time, performing on stage with Beyonce. She can dance and act and sing. I want to be a triple threat like that. We talk about her all the time. All the time." Phillip Phillips, 21, Leesburg, Ga.Six-string strummer: "The guitar, man, it just becomes one with me. People say I'm trying to hide behind it and they've said that about so many other artists. But your instrument is you. Like Damien Rice and John Butler and Dave Matthews. There's no hiding behind anything. It's you becoming one with your instrument. I would use it every week if I could, definitely."Fun fact: "I can do an impression of Mr. Herbert on Family Guy." Jeremy Rosado, 19, Valrico, Fla.Respect for rivals: "Every guy and girl on this show. This is truthfully the most talented group, I think, that American Idol has ever had, like as a whole. But Jessica Sanchez is definitely one of my very favorites and she's incredible, so look out for her."Fun fact: "I love juice like an addiction. Orange juice! Apple juice! I love Tropicana. I'd rather drink juice than do anything else, besides worship the Lord." Jessica Sanchez, 16, San Diego, Calif.Fixing the flaws: "I'm a perfectionist, so I want everything to be perfect. And the judges' criticism I don't take very hard because I can fix what I need to fix, [which is] my vibrato. In the past rounds they've told me that my vibrato was a bit thick, so I've been working on that."Fun fact: "I can rap. Also, when I was younger, I used to do 'I Will Always Love You' at karaoke. You know, like the real, Asian karaoke, 'Power of Love' and all that." Elise Testone, 28, Charleston, S.C."One and Only" times two: "I chose that Adele song first. And then Jen [Hirsch] had a different song and the producers didn't like the way it was sounding. They asked her what other artists she likes and she said she loved Adele. She sang a little bit of it and they said, 'Do it.' She wasn't really 100 percent sure that I was doing it, though, in her defense.Fun fact: "I skateboard with my dog." Erika Van Pelt, 26, South Kingstown, R.I.Rallying for Rhodey: "I am the only New Englander, and guess what? I want everyone in Connecticut and Massachusetts and Rhode Island to vote [for me]. Come on guys, this is the first time that a Rhode Islander has been in the Top 24, and now the Top 13 in the history of the show. I'm ready to rock 'n' roll and I'm ready to represent."Fun fact: "My boyfriend and I were friends for 16 years before we started dating, we were best friends growing up. I used to ride my bike down to his house and throw rocks at his window to see if he could come out and play basketball." American Idol airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8/7c on Fox. Which Idol contestants are your favorites?

Troll Hunter Director Seizes Carpe Demon

Ovredal pitches for slayer soccer momIt's not unusual for directors of breakout international hits to be lured to Hollywood, and Troll Hunter director Andre Øvredal is the latest to join the club. He's just signed on for Carpe Demon: The Adventures Of A Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom, adapted from the book by Julie Kenner.First published in 2005, the novel is the first in a series (franchise!) about Kate Connor, a woman living a life of suburban domesticity and trying to put her secret past as a slayer of demons firmly behind her. Except that her plan comes undone when underworld denizens start surfacing in her adopted hometown of San Diablo (well, with that name she really should have known).In short, it's a kind of Buffy-as-grown-up affair: Whatever Happened To Buffy?, if you like. There are five instalments to date, with Carpe Demon being followed by California Demon, Demons Are Forever, Deja Demon and Demon Ex Machina.The screenplay is by Dan and Kevin Hagerman (Hotel Transylvania), but we're not yet hearing any start dates or potential cast. The rights to the book currently reside with Chris Columbus' 1492 production company, who are also planning the English-language Troll Hunter remake. Coincidence? No.Øvredal has shown pretty conclusively with Troll Hunter that he can juggle humour and horror successfully, so he seems like a reasonable fit for the material. Let's hope he isn't overpowered by the bigger budgets of the Hollywood machine.

'That's My Boy' Exclusive Eco-friendly-Band Trailer & Poster

The other day, we introduced the "That's My Boy" red-colored-colored-band trailer, featuring Adam Sandler and Andy Samberg's raunchy new comedy of a father reconnecting along with his most desired boy round the week of his son's wedding -- with Sandler playing Samberg's father, no matter the under 15 year age distinction between your 2 stars. Today, the madness continues. Sandler and Samberg's first silver screen collaboration can get another trailer the following at MTV Movies, this time around around in the more family-friendly eco-friendly band variety. Have a look, then click past the break to find out a distinctive new "That's My Boy" poster! MTV News spoken with Andy Samberg about coping with Sandler on "That's My Boy," a celebration he known to wonderful be realized. "I've been joking that I've been moving with this face my entire existence, basically just before this moment where somebody states, 'Hey, there's this movie where someone must play Adam Sandler's kid, but he's closer in age to Sandler when compared to a normal kid might be,AInch he jeered. "As soon as Someone said the script, I understood I desired to make it happen. It sitting for a while, but around last fall, I heard that they're maybe thinking about carrying it out again. I told Sandler Let me get it done, which he mentioned, 'We'll discover if perform it!' Which we managed to get happen! It absolutely was probably the most pleased call." Are you currently presently excited to find out Sandler and Samberg as father and boy? Reveal everything you consider "That's My Boy" inside the comments section and also on Twitter!

Brian Percival Directing The Book Thief

Marcus Zusek's novel to be filmedGiven the immediate, enormous, bestselling popularity of Marcus Zusek's The Book Thief, it's suprising that it's taken seven years to reach the screen. A film is finally approaching, however, with Fox 2000 giving the directing gig to Brian Percival.Set in Germany during World WarII, The Book Thief is narrated by a benign Grim Reaper, who takes a lifelong (if you'll pardon the pun) interest in Liesel Meminger.Liesel is sent to live with foster parents to distance her from her Communist parents, whose political sympathies will make them targets of the Nazi regime.Living with her new family, the Hubermanns, she befriends Jewish fistfighter Max, who's being hidden in the Hubermans' cellar; the mayor's wife Ilsa, who gives Liesel the run of her library; and various local children, including the tragic Rudy. The novel traces Liesel's personal development, both through her relationships and through the books she reads. She eventually writes the story of her own life, as the war gets closer and closer to home.Zusak started out as a children's writer, and The Book Thief is one of those novels that straddles the age gap, given two covers and kept on both the adult and kids' shelves in bookshops. First published in 2005, it's won numerous awards, and is still on the NY Times betseller lists.Brian Percival directed A Boy Called Dad in 2009, starring Ian Hart. But he's best-known for his TV work, often on literary adaptations. He made series of Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South and Charles Dickens' The Old Curiosity Shop for the BBC, as well as the one-off The Ruby In The Smoke, starring Billie Piper and based on Phillip Pullman's adventure. Most recently he's been directing episodes of Downton Abbey for ITV, including the Christmas special that pulled in more viewers even than Doctor Who.The Book Thief's screenplay is by Michael Petroni (The Rite), and Karen Ronsenfelt (Twilight) is producing. Shooting is pencilled in for the summer.

Weekend Receipts: Act of Valor Blows Away Competition

Hollywood's biggest winners this weekend weren't confined just to the Kodak Theater (or whatever they call it now). A new-release frame well-known for its particularly aromatic qualities nevertheless had its success stories, led by an elite squad of Navy SEALs and our old friend Tyler Perry. Naturally. Your Weekend Receipts are here. 1. Act of Valor Gross: $24,700,000 (new) Screens: 3,039 (PSA $8,128) Weeks: 1 As predicted, bad reviews couldn't keep the flag-waving faithful away. Meanwhile, go ahead and predict the second-week percentage drop in the comments. I'll say 62 percent. 2. Good Deeds Gross: $16,000,000 (new) Screens: 2,132 (PSA $7,505) Weeks: 1 Clearly needed more headshots - preferably with Madea doing the shooting. 3. Journey 2: The Mysterious Island Gross: $13,475,000 ($76,731,000) Screens: 3,350 (PSA: $4,022) Weeks: 3 (Change: -32.1%) 4. Safe House Gross: $11,400,000 ($98,100,000) Screens: 3,052 (PSA $3,735) Weeks: 3 (Change: -51.8%) Both Journey 2 and Safe House continue to hold remarkably well after three weeks of release. Which is to say: Who is still seeing these? Especially on the weekend everyone's supposedly catching up on Oscar contenders? 5. The Vow Gross: $26,600,000 ($88,527,000) Screens: 2,958 (PSA $8,993) Weeks: 2 (Change: -35.4%) Seriously, I'm asking. 8. Wanderlust Gross: $6,600,000 (new) Screens: 2,002 (PSA $3,297) Weeks: 1 It could always get worse, Jennifer Aniston! You could have been... 9. Gone Gross: $5,000,000 (new) Screens: 2,186 (PSA $2,287) Weeks: 1 ...Amanda Seyfried. Or maybe it couldn't get worse? That's fine, though: Box office aside, I know a certain distinction that nobody can take away from either of these bottom dwellers. Congrats! [Figures via Box Office Mojo] Follow S.T. VanAirsdale on Twitter. Follow Movieline on Twitter.

VIDEO: Star Jones Returns to The View, Faces Questions About Controversial Exit, Weight Loss

Daniel Gillies When The Vampire Diaries' Elijah was introduced in Season 2, he wasn't supposed to stick around long. More than a year after his arrival the character remains one of the most popular in the show's history. "In the beginning I was a very old vampire who was going to live like two episodes," Daniel Gillies explains to TVGuide.com. "They didn't know I was going to be a brother, I [just] was a henchman." But Elijah has transformed from being terrifyingly powerful in his knowledge and skills, to a still powerful vampire, but one with a distinct moral compass and compassion for Elena who Gillies calls a warrior. VIDEO: Vampire Diaries' Candice Accola says Caroline and Bonnie are teaming up Fans can't get enough of the Original, despite the immense threat he poses to the Salvatore Brothers, among others. Gillies has his own theories as to his character's popularity. "When Elijah shows his face you know things are going to happen," he says. "When he turns up he's exposition and movement and the story is taking flight - or maybe fans just like his multiple haircuts." While Elijah prides himself on not being driven by impulsive rage like his brother Klaus, Gillies says that his actions towards Elena in last week's episode were so terrifying that it's the reason he fled town at the end. "Elena came quite close to peril and closer to peril than he ever thought she would and there's a disgrace in that," Gillies says. "He can be vicious and can be strategic, but he's never reckless and this was one of the few times on the show we've seen him be absolutely reckless in order to get what he needed. Sure, it was his life and the life of his brothers and sister, but placing Elena in the position of being a hostage was probably something he would change if he could go back or at least make certain she wasn't in true danger." Vampire Diaries Video: Kat Graham says Bonnie will go against Elena and stand by it Despite Elijah's upcoming absence (which we hope and assume will be temporary), Gillies has quite a few ideas as to who he'd like to work with in the future. "I really enjoy my scenes with Ian Somerhalder. There's something very funny about those two in a scene together - they're sort of an odd couple," Gillies says. "Elijah is the sadistic, quiet, calm zinger- type comedy, whereas Damon is this snarky, sometimes bitchy and tempestuous vampire. Of course, if I could team up with anybody, I just feel like if [Klaus and Elijah] could ever solve their differences the world would be theirs." Watch this week's Vampire Diaries Bite for more on Elijah's lack of a British accent and the Originals' uncanny ability to pick up modern technology: The Vampire Diaries returns with new episodes on Thursday, March 15 at 8/7c.

Charlie Sheen Resumes Two & Half Males Insults: Should Foreign exchange & Lionsgate Worry?

Much like his new show, Anger Management, is gearing for production on its initial 10-episode order from Foreign exchange, its star/producer Charlie Sheen embarked around the type of verbal rampage that got him at risk along with his previous employer Warner Bros. TV and ultimately got him fired from his previous show, CBS’ two and a half Males. Within the last a few days, Sheen dropped the Mr. Nice Guy persona he'd cultivated since he signed on for Anger Management last summer season revisit his infamous warlock days. “Perhaps if Warner Bros. spent as much effort and time focusing on their own show, it wouldn’t be this kind of steaming pile of ass,” Sheen told TMZ on Wednesday responding for the cease-and-desist letter within the studio banning using images of Sheen as his Guy character to market his new show. Then today, he referred to as into TMZ Live, also reverting to have an old habit he'd throughout his wild days this past year because he would regularly call into live radio shows to vent. “I’m frustrated with pretending Ashton doesn’t suck,” he mentioned, an 180 within the thumbs-up he'd freely given his alternative Ashton Kutcher. “I’m frustrated with lounging … I’m frustrated with pretending the show doesn’t suck … I’m frustrated with pretending Ashton doesn’t suck…It’s nothing personal … I merely shame him … he’s saddled together with your bad writing,” Sheen found the final outcome, shifting his insults to his favorite target of a year ago, two and a half Males showrunner Chuck Lorre. There is no such factor bad publicity, it is said, together with a brand new show needs all the attention it might get. However doubt this really is really the type of attention the marketing teams at Foreign exchange and Anger Management producer Lionsgate TV are pursuing. Seeing glimpses in the foul-mouthed, loose-cannon Charlie Sheen of 2011 so early on the way on Anger Management will undoubtedly raise concern at Foreign exchange, Lionsgate especially Lionsgate’s Debmar-Mercury division, whose model’s success is connected having a show’s capacity to visit full-scale, punching the 100-episode mark and beyond. Was vid brief episode triggered with the WBTV legal move or perhaps an indication of relapse? Or even Sheen is adopting Daniel Day-Lewis kind of method acting, embodying his anger management issues-affected character on / off-work.

Kevin Sausage, Chris Colfer join '8' cast

Sausage Colfer ReillyKevin Sausage, Chris Colfer and John C. Reilly are actually put in the performance of "8," Dustin Lance Black's play in regards to the Prop 8 trial which will be staged within the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in La on March 3.The large event can be a benefit organized with the American Foundation for Equal Rights, the org of entertainment and political activists pursuing the problem in federal court, and Broadway Impact, the nonprofit created mobilize the theater community intended for same-sex marriage equality.Others inside the cast include George Clooney and Martin Sheen as David Boies and Ted Olson, correspondingly, charge counsels for your litigants inside the situation. Make the most of Reiner is pointing, and contains employment inside the play. Contact Ted Manley at ted.manley@variety.com

Johansson, Washington Receive German Acting Awards

BERLIN (AP) U.S. actors Scarlett Johansson and Denzel Washington have received Germany's most prestigious film award as best international actors.The 27-year-old Johansson said she was grateful that her work was also appreciated abroad as she received the Golden Camera Award late Saturday.Actor Morgan Freeman was awarded a trophy for lifetime achievement, which the 74-year-old called "a great honor," German news agency dapd reported.The 47th ceremony of the Golden Camera Awards was held in German publishing house Axel Springer's Berlin headquarters.Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Scarlett Johansson PHOTO CREDIT Robert Marquardt/Getty Images BERLIN (AP) U.S. actors Scarlett Johansson and Denzel Washington have received Germany's most prestigious film award as best international actors.The 27-year-old Johansson said she was grateful that her work was also appreciated abroad as she received the Golden Camera Award late Saturday.Actor Morgan Freeman was awarded a trophy for lifetime achievement, which the 74-year-old called "a great honor," German news agency dapd reported.The 47th ceremony of the Golden Camera Awards was held in German publishing house Axel Springer's Berlin headquarters.Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Michelle Williams Talks Golden Globe Win

First Launched: The month of the month of january 16, 2012 10:13 AM EST Credit: AFP/Getty Images Caption Michelle Williams poses while using trophy to find the best Performance by an Actress in the Film Comedy or Musical for My Week with Marilyn within the 69th annual Golden Globe Honours within the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly HillsBEV -- Michelle Williams needed home the Golden Globe on her behalf portrayal of Hollywood legend Lana Turner an recognition that her 6-year-old daughter Matilda aided her acheive. I used to be discovering maintaining [Marilyn] I used to be getting there and something way that we practiced her reaches the princesses inside the mattress time tales, the actress told Access Hollywoods Billy Rose rose bush, when asked for of her process for nailing lower Marilyns voice while reading through right through to her daughter. [My princesses] had a kind of breathy quality, she referred to. Throughout her acceptance speech on Sunday evening, Michelle thanked Matilda whom she'd while using late Heath Ledger saying her bravery and exuberance might be the example that we take with me at night throughout my act as well as with my existence. I consider myself a parent or gaurdian first plus an actress second, she mentioned round the Globes stage. If only to convey gratitude [to Matilda] for delivering me away and off to this each day getting a hug together with a hug. On her best winglady and former Dawsons Creek co-star, Busy Philipps, the Golden Globe champion was very happy to have her friend by her side round the large evening. She's [fun.] Shes the most effective date, Michelle added. Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Corporation. All rights reserved. These elements is probably not launched, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Ricky Gervais' 10 Best and Worst Golden Globe Jabs

Ricky Gervais, The 2012 Golden Globe Awards Was Ricky Gervais holding back this year? Hosting the Golden Globes for the third time, the comedian opened Sunday's awards show by ribbing Eddie Murphy for pulling out as Oscar host ("When the man who said yes to Norbit says no to you, you know you're in trouble") and NBC for being America's third-place network (oh, actually, fourth). He did get in a few zingers. His five best jabs were aimed at: His own manhood -- "No profanity: That's fine, I've got a huge vocabulary. No nudity: See that's a shame because I've got a huge [pause] vocabulary. But a tiny penis." Homeland, Modern Family top Golden Globes Justin Bieber's manhood -- "Justin Bieber nearly had to take a paternity test. What a waste of a test that would have been! No, he's not the father. The only way he could have impregnated a girl is if he borrowed one of Martha Stewart's old turkey basters ... open wide!" Jodie Foster's Beaver. Or beaver -- "I mustn't mention Mel Gibson this year. Not his private life, his politics, his recent films and especially not Jodie Foster's Beaver. I haven't seen it myself. ... But that doesn't mean it's not good." God -- "You don't need to thank everyone you've ever met, or members of your family, who have done nothing. Just do the main two: your agent and God ... I know for a fact that both God and my agent had exactly the same amount of input in my career." The Tourist, again -- "Are you on recreational drugs? ... Have you seen The Tourist yet?" he asked Johnny Depp, who confessed: "Uh, no.") Check out all the Golden Globes fashion hits and misses And these five would-be zingers were directed at: Actors -- "Amazingly, [defecating in a sink, a la Melissa McCarthy in Bridesmaids] is still less demeaning than what all of you have done to make it in show business." Elton John -- "Our next presenter is the queen of pop. Not you, Elton. Sit down." Salma Hayek and Antonio Banderas -- "They're ridiculously gorgeous specimens ... and probably very interesting ..." The rest of joke was censored by NBC, but our lip-reading skills lead us to believe he continued, "but you can't f---ing understand a word they say." Check out all the Golden Globes red carpet arrivals Colin Firth and his clean image -- "What you don't know about him is he's very racist. I mean, really nasty stuff. I've also seen him punch a little blind kitten. Please welcome the evil Colin Firth." Natalie Portman taking time off for her baby -- "Consequently, she's been nominated for nothing. Pathetic. But she's learned that valuable lesson that all you already learned: Never put family first." How do you think Gervais did this year? Was he too cautious? Sound off in the comments below.

Winslet to star in Branagh romance

WinsletLONDON -- Kate Winslet is installed on star in "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Cake Society," which Kenneth Branagh is positioned to direct for Fox 2000. This reunites Winslet with Branagh the first time since she carried out Ophelia within the bigscreen "Hamlet" in 1996. "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Cake Society" is modified by Don Roos within the bestseller by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. It's a love story occur the London as well as the Funnel Islands after World war ii. Winslet may have a novel author who gets into in to a correspondence getting a man from Guernsey, and finds out how a islanders used the sunday paper group through the war as cover to outsmart their German occupiers. Intrigued by their tales in the occupation, and the way the books found influence their lives, she decides to visit Guernsey herself, a trip that changes her forever. In the recent interview with Variety, Branagh known towards the project as "a stylish romance, very touching and advantageous." The project continues to be produced by Paula Masur and Mitchell Kaplan, with Branagh's regular partner David Barron. Shooting is scheduled for March, in line with the Daily Mail. It had been initially launched inside the U.S. in 2008. It absolutely was the only novel by Mary Ann Shaffer, an editor and librarian, whose niece Annie Burrows aided her finish it when Shaffer increased being crictally ill. Shaffer died aged 74 a few several days just before the novel was launched. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com

When Will How I Met Your Mother End? Plus: Ted's Soul-Searching, Marshall and Lily's Big Move

How I Met Your Mother When will How I Met Your Mother end? There's one important question that has to be answered first: "We have to see if the Mayans were right first," Jason Segel joked to reporters Wednesday at CBS' winter TV preview. Asked if the long-running comedy - currently in its seventh season and renewed for an eighth - has an end date, co-creator and executive producer Carter Bays said, "it's not a high priority" for the series. "I would imagine going into the final season, we would [alert] people to that... Beyond that, I think it's hard for us to say on [a given date] we will officially be out of ideas." Watch full episodes of How I Met Your Mother When that day comes, however, producers have a plan for how the show will wrap. "The meeting [of the mother] will be part of the end game," Bays said. As for how much viewers will see beyond that initial meet-cute, producers refused to say. Bays and co-creator and executive producer Craig Thomas have already been thinking about casting the pivotal role, and appear to be leaning towards an unknown, pointing to the success of casting then-unknown Cobie Smulders as Ted's first love, Robin. "She should have been the mother," Thomas said. "We screwed up!" No matter how long it takes for Ted (Josh Radnor) to meet the one, Segel said he was now open to seeing the story through to the end; he previously said the show should wrap after Season 8. "I'd like to see the story come to its natural end, whether its eight years or nine years," he said. "I was so relieved when I found out there was an actual plan." Check out photos from How I Met Your Mother In the interim, producers teased what they've got planned for February sweeps. There's "big, soul-searching stuff" ahead for Ted as he assesses his readiness to get married and questions why he still hasn't found the one. "He's going to come up with what he thinks is the answer and then we'll explore whether that answer is right." Marshall and Lily will also struggle with their next big life step as they get ready to have a baby. "It's a real identity crisis when a baby is on the way and we're going to explore that," Bays said. This coming week's episode will see the couple officially move to the suburbs and deal with being away from their friends. But Thomas said the 'burbs are "not necessarily a permanent stop." How I Met Your Mother airs Mondays at 8/7c on CBS.

SAG Offers Support for Unmasked Actress Suing IMDb

Huang Hoang, the actress who on Friday was outed in her own suit against IMDB for posting her age, gets some large-time support from Hollywood's greatest acting guild. Late Friday, the Screen Stars Guild released an argument applauding Hoang on her "determination and courage" in "standing to battle the unfair and abusive practice of posting actors' personal data online without their consent.""1000's of stars have experienced their careers injured through the unauthorized publication of the birthdates by IMDb against their wishes," SAG states inside a statement to THR. "Screen Stars Guild and it is people stand for efforts to curtail this invasion of privacy completed to enhance a company balance sheet."Meanwhile, Hoang's attorney John Dozier is speaking out the very first time concerning the amended suit, that was first filed anonymously but up-to-date right now to include Hoang's title following a federal judge threatened to dismiss the situation."We're very disappointed the judge needed the complaintant to recognize herself by title," Dozier informs THR within an exclusive interview. "But her readiness to do this ought to be a powerful indication that my client would like to determine this situation to the conclusion however lengthy that road might be."As we have reported, Hoang prosecuted IMDb parent Amazon . com declaring the popular search database exposed her to discrimination if this used information from her IMDB Professional account to list out her age as 4 decades old. On 12 ,. 23, a federal judge gave Dozier fourteen days to re-file the situation together with his client's real title attached or even the situation could be thrown.Since Hoang went public, the Texas-based actress continues to be inundated with media demands. Today, Hello America, E! along with other TV shops, in addition to People magazine along with other print media, are clamoring for interviews. Dozier states his client is not doing press because she does not desire to be regarded as suing to acquire media exposure.SAG required the chance Friday to slam IMDb because of its practice of revealing age range on its site."An actor's job would be to portray another person. When private information, just like a birthdate, can be used to limit who an actress can portray, creativeness is injured, and also the actor is injured," the statement readas. "Earning money like a middle-class, working actor has already been extremely difficult. IMDb's misguided insistence on posting private private information like birthdates causes it to be even harder. The Hollywood Reporter

The Firms Josh Lucas Is Engaged

First Published: January 7, 2012 6:56 PM EST Credit: Getty Images LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Caption Josh Lucas arrives at the J. Edgar opening night gala during AFI FEST 2011 presented by Audi held at Graumans Chinese Theatre, Hollywood, on November 3, 2011Josh Lucas nabbed the lead on NBCs new drama, The Firm, and the actor recently revealed hes set to take on yet another big role in his personal life that of a husband! The 40-year-old star confirmed the happy news to Jay Leno during an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Friday. Josh kept most of the engagement details private including the name of his now-fiancee but explained how he came to realize she was the one. While filming a low-budget film in Big Sur, Calif., the actor and his ladylove ended up staying in a run-down trailer (reportedly hailed as an eco-retreat by its owner), located on a hill requiring a 20-minute dirt road hike to reach it. Following a long day of filming, Josh hiked up the hill in the wee hours of the morning, sans flashlight, and encountered a mountain lion a danger his now-fiancee had warned him about (to no avail) the day before. When he got back to his girlfriend, Josh said he realized hed found his match in love. I decided in that moment, truly in that moment, that this woman was the woman for me, he told Jay, of when he returned to the trailer following the close-call with the beast. As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, Josh is not the only star getting ready to take the plunge Drew Barrymore recently became engaged to Will Kopelman, while Justin Timberlake is rumored to have popped the question to longtime girlfriend Jessica Biel. The Firm, which also stars Juliette Lewis, has its two-hour premiere on Sunday at 9 PM EST/PST on NBC, before moving to its regular timeslot Thursdays at 10 PM. Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Trump Unveils New Celebrity Apprentice Cast

First Published: January 4, 2012 9:59 AM EST Credit: Getty Premium Caption Arsenio Hall, Dee Snider, Lou Ferrigno, Clay Aiken, Penn Jillette, Paul Teutel Sr., Marco Andretti, Dayana Mendoza, Tia Carrere, Patricia Valesquez, Lisa Lampanelli, Debbie Gibson, Aubrey ODay and Teresa Giudice seen on the set of Celebrity Apprentice in NY City on October 26, 2011NY, N.Y. -- Mob boss widow Victoria Gotti, singer Clay Aiken and IndyCar champ Michael Andretti are on tap for the next edition of NBCs Celebrity Apprentice. Host Donald Trump announced the new batch of contenders on Wednesdays Today show. They also include Real Housewives of New Jersey cast member Teresa Guidice, comedian Lisa Lampanelli, former Miss Universe Dayana Mendoza, rock star Dee Snider and America Chopper star Paul Teutul Sr. Other contenders include radio host Adam Carolla, comedian Arsenio Hall, singer-actress Aubrey ODay and magician Penn Jillette. Rounding out the rivals are model Cheryl Tiegs, singer Debbie Gibson, Star Trek star George Takei, singer Tia Carrere, actress-model Patricia Velasquez and Incredible Hulk Lou Ferrigno. Celebrity Apprentice returns for its new season Feb. 12. Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Weinstein Co. merging acquisition, prod'n arms

SellersGigliottiLawson The Weinstein Clients are merging its acquisition and production departments and getting in former Unique Pictures production professional Dylan Retailers to mind the brand new combined division.New department, that will coalesce through the finish from the month, includes about ten to twelve employees. No current TWC staff is going to be release included in the merger, based on an insider.Retailers, who offered as senior production professional in the Warner Bros.-based Unique, oversaw the business's West coast development and production procedures. Formerly a production professional at twentieth century Fox, he gone to live in creating, most lately on Paramount's "Footloose" in addition to WB's "A Cinderella Story."Simultaneously, purchases mind Peter Lawson is poised to exit the organization when his contract expires in the finish from the month. Lawson, that has drenched fifteen years with TWC, will proceed to Thunder Road.Production prexy Donna Gigliotti, whose credits include the 2011 "The Silver Textures Playbook" in addition to 2008's "The Readers," can also be altering positions, switching to some creating cope with the organization.TWC has already established a powerful concentrate on both purchases and productions. Company launched greater than a dozen pick-ups this past year and it is presently creating "Playbook" and "Django Unchained." A proceed to merge the development and purchases departments doesn't surprise some experts, who state that the 2 overlapped sometimes."It only is sensible for (TWC co-mind) Harvey Weinstein to mix both of these divisions together," noted one insider. Contact Rachel Abrams at Rachel.Abrams@variety.com

Canal Plus wooden wooden shutters 3d service

PARIS -- Gallic pay TV giant Canal Plus is always to shutter its 3d funnel after it not successful to draw enough clients. The service, which started in June 2010 with time for your Soccer World Cup, will close Jan. 24. It had under 20,000 clients. A Canal Plus representative mentioned the service had allowed the business to try out we have got we've got the technology, nevertheless it had also posed numerous challenges, mainly "having less enthusiasm among clients for stereoscopic programs." "Most of them started watching a training course in 3d, and quickly switched to 2D. "3d is a lot more appropriate for cinema consumption than TV, no less than as extended as 3d glasses are crucial,In . the representative mentioned. One other issue was the lower amount of sales of 3d TV begins France, due to their costly. Since March, the 3 dimensional service has broadcast another live sports event together with a brand new feature film each month. Lately, it broadcast its first 3d documentary, "Makay," a sizable-budget expedition into Madagascar's Makay Valley. The paybox is constantly on the air 3d content on its other channels. "Our priority if this involves investment remains high-definition service," the representative mentioned. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com