Amazon Kindle

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Amazon Kindle

There are only six shopping days 'till Christmas 2010. Still haven't found the perfect gift for the actor or actress in your life? If you hurry, you can still get him or her the Amazon Kindle.

Actors need to read. We need to study methods, techniques, and we're constantly reading monologue books and scripts looking for new material. And of course, there are all the resources on the actual BUSINESS of show that we need to study.

Portable
My house is full of terrific resources for the working actor. But with a Kindle, those books are available any time, any where.

The latest model is slimmer than earlier ones, and is smaller and weighs less than a paperback book, giving you your entire library at your fingertips.

Need that elusive Shakespeare quote? About to go into an audition, and want to check that monologue one last time? Find them in a flash on the Kindle!

The features

The newest Kindle holds up to 3500 books, twice the storage of the previous model. It also features free 3G wireless and built-in Wi-Fi, so you can connect and download books at Wi-Fi hotspots.

The battery lasts up to a month on a single charge, and the screen features greater contrast than the previous models, making it easier to read. It also has a bright screen that can be read in bright sunlight without glare.

This model also has a WebKit-based browser, allowing for 3G web browsing (though Amazon points out that this feature is still experimental).

Further, it has an enhanced PDF reader. This helps the musical theater actor or actress who is able to find (or scan) his or her music in a PDF file. Now music learning is mobile, without having to lug that giant score around.

There are over 750,000 books available, as well as newspapers and blogs. Out-of-copyright books are free, and many books, including several best-sellers, are under $10. Kindle will also feature book lending later this year.

The Kindle features WhisperSync, so books can be read on an iPad, home or laptop computer, or SmartPhone. And purchased books are stored on the Amazon online Kindle library and can be re-downloaded for free anytime.

Best of all, while it's a fantastic tool for the actor or actress in your life, the Amazon Kindle is great for anyone, young or old, who loves to read.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Catch the Gingerbread Boy!

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Catch the Gingerbread Boy!

WHAT: "The Gingerbread Boy" performed by Thistle Theatre, a puppet theater for families.

WHERE/WHEN: Bellevue Youth Theatre, 16661 Northup Way, Bellevue, WA 98008, December 18 and 19 at 2 and 4 p.m.

TICKET PRICE: $7 children and seniors, $9 general admission. Season tickets are $30 children and seniors, $40 general admission.

TO BUY TICKETS: Call 206-524-3388 or visit thistletheatre.org or buy them at the door.

I had the pleasure of attending "The Gingerbread Boy," presented by Thistle Theatre. This fun holiday puppet show runs one more weekend at the Bellevue Youth Theatre and should not be missed.

The show is a charming rendition of the fairytale with Thistle's usual flair, featuring fun performances and great music.

All voices and songs are performed live by puppeteers Brian Stabile, Lisa A. Haslbauer, and newcomer Ben Burris. They use Japanese Bunraku-style puppets and song to tell this humorous tale.

Both the adults and children in the audience were entertained by the nonstop action, beautiful and clever puppets, and catchy tunes.

The script was written by Jean Enticknap and Sue Ennis. Sue wrote the songs, and Jean directed this lively production.

The script is based loosely on the traditional fairytale, and cookies get eaten and much mischief is made. This puppet show is recommended for ages 3 and up.

The shows at Bellevue Youth Theatre are on December 18 and 19 at 2 and 4 p.m. The theater address is 16661 Northup Way in Bellevue.

Come see this fun puppet show while it's still in town!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Thor Movie Trailer

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Thor Movie Trailer

YahooMovies has released the first trailer for the new movie "Thor," which is set to be released next spring.

The Marvel Studios movie stars Chris Hemsworth in the title role alongside actress Natalie Portman.

The movie also features Tom Hiddleston, Rene Russo, Idris Elba, Kat Dennings, Clark Gregg, Jaimie Alexander, Ray Stevenson, Joshua Dallas, Tadanobu Asano, and Oscar-winner Anthony Hopkins.

It's directed by Kenneth Branagh and is set to be released on May 6.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

A Walk In My Shoes

Gina Wilhelm Actress- A Walk In My Shoes
Friday marked the premiere of the movie "A Walk In My Shoes." The family-friendly movie aired at 8/7 central on NBC and was presented by Wal-Mart and Procter and Gamble.

The movie tells the story of a busy high school teacher, played by Nancy Travis, who learns about the trials of one of her students by inhabiting the body of the student's mother.

NBC, Wal-Mart, and Procter and Gamble team up for "Family Movie Night," promising "fun and action-packed" programming.

The also promise viewers will be, "without the worry of having to dive for the remote to change the channel when inappropriate ads or other content comes on."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Macy s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2010

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Macy s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2010

The 84th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade airs at 9 a.m. on NBC on Thursday, November 25.

This tradition is considered by many to be the official start of the holiday season. Approximately 3.5 million people watch the parade on television every year.

Being invited to participate in the parade is a big honor. The parade includes floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and various celebrities.

This year participants include the Broadway cast of "Million Dollar Quartet," the Rockettes, Ann Hampton Callaway, and Betty Buckley.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

The Golden Compass

Gina Wilhelm Actress - The Golden Compass

"The Golden Compass," the 2007 movie based on the popular children's book series, has made its regular television debut. Will there ever be a sequel to this picture?

Starring Nicole Kidman as the villainous Mrs. Coulter, the movie won an Oscar for Best Achievement in Visual Effects, a BAFTA award, an Art Directors Guild Award, and a Costumers Design Guild Award.

Nicole Kidman and Dakota Blue Richards, who played heroine Lyra, were both also nominated for Best Performance - Female in the National Movie Awards, UK.

The book "The Golden Compass" was the first in the "His Dark Materials" trilogy written by Philip Pullman. However, to date there has been no sequel to the movie.

Critical reception for the movie was mixed, and it didn't make a profit until its international screening.

While there is a possibility of a sequel, there are no concrete answers as to when - or whether - one will occur. There is no schedule for the release of one at this time.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Amber Tamblyn

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Amber Tamblyn

Amber Tamblyn joins the cast of "House" tonight for a 13-episode arc. When she got the offer, she knew of the show's star, Hugh Laurie, primarily from his work on "Black Adder."

Of Mr. Laurie, Tamblyn said, "He's incredible. He's been so much fun to work with." She was in awe of his ability to carry a program for seven years.

Tamblyn, of course, was the title character of the show "Joan of Arcadia" for two years and knows whereof she speaks.

She originally didn't want to do "House," believing it just a medical show. She has since learned that, "it's a very complex show about complex characters and their dark traits, their light traits, everything."

Tamblyn will be playing the "annoyingly smart" Martha Masters until at least March. "House" airs on Fox on Monday nights at 8 p.m.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Vanessa Minnillo

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Vanessa Minnillo

Actress and former "Total Request Live" host Vanessa Minnillo has gotten engaged to Nick Lachey.

Minnillo appeared in "Disaster Movie" and had a recurring role in "The Bold and The Beautiful." In addition to hosting "TRL," she was also a correspondent on "Entertainment Tonight."

She had also been a host and judge on the show "True Beauty" and had appeared in a music video for Lachey's solo single "What's Left of Me."

Lachey, formerly of the group 98 Degrees, was previously married to Jessica Simpson and appeared with her on the MTV reality show "Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica."

In a statement to People.com, Lachey and Minnillo said, "We're excited and incredibly happy about our engagement and we look forward to a wonderful future together."

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Demi Lovato Rehab

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Demi Lovato Rehab

Disney star Demi Lovato checked herself into rehab recently for "emotional and physical issues."

The actress, who stars on "Sonny With A Chance," had been on the Jonas Brothers World Tour/Camp Rock 2 Tour.

A representative from Disney has released a statement of support, saying, "We support Demi’s decision to put her health first and we send her our best wishes.”

Demi's father has also released a statement: "Demi’s always had a good head on her shoulders. It’s best for her right now if she is able to get away from everyone to focus on her treatment.”

Gina Wilhelm Actress wishes Ms. Lovato the best of luck and a speedy recovery.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Hathaway Declared Good Actress Value

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Hathaway Declared Good Actress Value

Forbes Magazine has named Anne Hathaway its "Best Actress for the Buck." The honor was decided by how much Hathaway's movies make in relation to how much she is paid.

In addition to being an Oscar nominee for "Rachel Getting Married," Hathaway has been in such high-grossing films as "Get Smart" and last summer's "Alice in Wonderland."

Forbes has determined that Hathaway brings back $64 for every dollar she's paid.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Little Red Riding Hood is in the Woods!

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Little Red Riding Hood is in the Woods!

WHAT: "Little Red Riding Hood" performed by Thistle Theatre, a puppet theater for families.

WHERE/WHEN: Magnuson Park Theatre, 7110 62nd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98115, Bldg. 47, October 16 and 17 at 1 and 3 p.m.

Sunset Hill Community Club, 3003 NW 66th Street, Seattle WA 98117, in Ballard, October 22 at 7:30 p.m., October 23 and 24 at 1 and 3 p.m.

TICKET PRICE: $7 children and seniors, $9 general admission. Season tickets are $30 children and seniors, $40 general admission.

TO BUY TICKETS: Call 206-524-3388 or visit thistletheatre.org or buy them at the door.

I am appearing in "Little Red Riding Hood" with Thistle Theatre for the next two weekends in October, first at Magnuson Park Theatre (where Seattle Musical Theatre performances), and then at Sunset Hill Community Club in Ballard.

These are our only local performances before we head out on tour, and you don't want to miss them!

All voices and songs are performed live by me and fellow puppeteers Brian Stabile and Lisa A. Haslbauer. We use Japanese Bunraku-style puppets and song to tell this humorous version of the beloved fairytale.

The script was written by Jean Enticknap and Sue Ennis. Sue wrote the songs, including the "Wolf Aria," one of the most popular songs written for Thistle Theatre. Jean directed this lively production.

The script is based loosely on the Grimm's fairy tale, and things do get eaten, but everything turns out okay in the end. This show is recommended for ages 3 and up.

The shows at Magnuson Park Theatre are on October 16 and 17 at 1 and 3 p.m. The theater is in Magnuson Park in building 47. The address is 7110 62nd Ave NE in Seattle.

The shows at Sunset Hill Community Club are on October 22 at 7:30 p.m. and on October 23 and 24 at 1 and 3 p.m. The community club is in Ballard at 3003 NW 66th Street.

Come see this fun puppet show while we're still in town!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Courtney Cox

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Courtney Cox

Actress Courtney Cox has split with her husband of 11 years, David Arquette. Apparently the two have been separated for some time.

They have a joint custody arrangement for their 6-year-old daughter, Coco, even though they have not yet officially ended their marriage.

The couple, who met on the set of the first "Scream" movie, remain amicable, releasing a statment that said they "still love each other deeply."

Cox currently stars on the ABC program "Cougar Town." She and David Arquette are still set to work together on the next installment of the "Scream" franchise.

Hopefully the couple will come to an amicable resolution soon.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Eric Thal

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Eric Thal

Rumor has it that Eric Thal is dating actress and Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron.

Theron had previously dated actor Stuart Townsend, with whom she had appeared in the movies "Trapped" and "Head in the Clouds."

Townsend also had an uncredited role in Theron's "Aeon Flux" and had directed Charlize in the movie "Battle in Seattle."

Eric Thal is also an actor, having appeared at the Neighborhood Playhouse Theatre in New York. He has acted in a number of commercials.


On television, Thal has appeared in "Samson and Delilah" on the TNT network and in the Halle Berry miniseries "The Wedding."

Thal's film debut was "A Stranger Among Us." He acted in "The Gun in Betty Lou’s Handbag," "The Puppet Masters," and "Six Degrees of Separation."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

SNL

Gina Wilhelm Actress - SNL

This weekend brings the season premiere of "Saturday Night Live," now starting its 36th season.

This week's guest star is Amy Poehler, who used to be a cast member of the show and is now starring in NBC's "Parks and Recreation."

Also appearing will be Katy Perry as the musical guest. Perry has created a stir this week when she appeared in a "Sesame Street" sketch while wearing what appeared to be a revealing outfit.

The skit, which was shown on the web as a teaser to "Sesame Street's" 41st season, will no longer appear on the children's show, but you can still see it at Perry's website. Or by clicking this link.

In other SNL news, New York governor David Paterson is scheduled to appear on the show tonight after having lambasted the show in the past.

Finally, NetFlix has worked out a deal to have every episode of Saturday Night Live for the past 35 years available, as well as have day-after watching of every new episode, until 2012.

That means if you miss tonight's Amy Poehler/Katy Perry episode, you could still see it tomorrow on NetFlix. Or, you could see that "Dueling Brandos" sketch I was looking for last week.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

JoAnna Garcia

Gina Wilhelm Actress - JoAnna Garcia

JoAnna Garcia was disappointed when her show "Privileged" was cancelled. However, she now thinks it was for the best.

"It was a great role, and I'm proud of the work I did on that show, but everything that happened after it was canceled has been great."

Garcia, who had also starred on "Reba," got engaged to Nick Swisher, a player for the New York Yankees, and she's now starring on a new TV show, "Better With You."

"Better" focuses on three related sets of couples at different stages of their relationships. Garcia's character, Mia, has only known her boyfriend, Casey (Jake Lacy), a few weeks.

The rest of the cast comprises Jennifer Finnigan as older sister Maddie and Josh Cooke as Maddie's boyfriend Ben. Debra Jo Rupp and Kurt Fuller play Maddie and Mia's parents.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Kelly McGillis

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Kelly McGillis

This week brings the news that Kelly McGillis, star of "Top Gun," "Witness," and "The Accused," was joined in a civil union with her long-time girlfriend, Melanie Leis, on Wednesday, September 15.

McGillis revealed that she was a lesbian in a 2009 interview with Shewired.com. She explained, "I really didn’t have to protect anyone by skirting the question, and I just decided to be absolutely honest.”

Recently she has appeared on stage as well as in two episodes of "The L Word." Her latest film is "Stake Land," a vampire movie that will be shown this week at the Toronto Film Festival.

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Nikita CW

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Nikita CW

The CW show "Nikita" had its premiere tonight. The show is a reimagining of the movie and USA Network TV series "La Femme Nikita." The prior series starred Peta Wilson

So what of star Maggie Q? Her real name is Margaret Denise Quigley, and she grew up in Honolulu.

She went to Taiwan after high school to try modeling, but got rejected. However, she started getting movie and TV roles there.

Maggie was handpicked by Jackie Chan to train while in Hong Kong. She had never done any martial arts training before that.

She has three tattoos, including a phoenix on her hip, which she usually has to cover for acting roles. However, she does get to keep it exposed for "Nikita."

Maggie works with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, and in 2007 earned the title of PETA Asia-Pacific "Person of the Year."

She has worked in "Mission: Impossible III" and "Live Free or Die Hard." Craig Silverstein, executive producer of "Nikita," decided he wanted Maggie Q for his show after seeing her in "Live Free or Die Hard."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Minka Kelly

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Minka Kelly

Minka Kelly, star of "Friday Night Lights" denies that she "had an epic meltdown" on an airplane on September 7.

The actress was allegedly told she couldn't have her dog in first class seating with her during takeoff and landing, leaving her pet in coach at those times.

The animal did ride in first class when the plane got to cruising altitude.

According to reports, it took all seven flight attendants, a plea from the pilot, and a phone call to her boyfriend, Derek Jeter, to calm her down.

However, Kelly's lawyer says the actress paid extra for her dog to ride in the cabin. He adds that if Kelly had required as much attention as reported, she would have been kicked off the flight.

He adds that Kelly called not ballplayer and boyfriend Jeter, but her manager. She wanted to get the manager to convince the attendant that the dog had been paid for properly.

In addition to her work on "Friday Night Lights," Kelly has acted on episodes of "Parenthood" and will appear in upcoming movies "Searching for Sonny" and "The Roommate."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

The Sound of Music

Gina Wilhelm Actress - The Sound of Music

As we learn that the BBC will not produce a tribute to Julie Andrews on her 75th birthday, and as ABC shows "The Sound of Music" tonight we wonder about Dame Julie's costars from the 1965 movie.

Charmain Carr, who played oldest daughter Liesl, does radio and TV appearances related to that role, for which she is still recognized. She acted for many years, and wrote two books about her experiences in the movie.

Nicholas Hammond played oldest brother Friedrich. He graduated from Princeton and appeared in movies like "Spiderman" and Mission: Impossible." He lives in Australia and acts on stage and screen there.

Heather Menzies portrayed Luisa. She starred on the television series "Logan's Run." She was married to Robert Urich and now works for the Robert Urich Cancer Foundation.

Duane Chase, who played Friedrich, didn't act after "The Sound of Music." He has a master's degree in geology and lives with his wife in Washington State.

Angela Cartwright appeared in shows such as "Make Room for Daddy" and "Lost in Space" after her turn as Brigitta. She is the author of two photography books.

Debbie Turner had been acting since six months of age by the time she played Marta. She left showbusiness to ski professionally after "The Sound of Music" and now owns a floral design business.

Kym Karath played Gretl, and appeared on shows like "The Brady Bunch" and "Lassie" as a child and "As the World Turns." She lived in France for a while to study art history and did some modeling.

After taking some time off to be a stay-at-home mom, Karath is getting back into acting.

Christopher Plummer is about to play Prospero in a made-for-TV version of "The Tempest."

Dame Julie Andrews, who turns 75 in October, is expected to lend her voice to "Enchanted 2," having just appeared in "Dispicable Me."

Meanwhile, "The Sound of Music" aired tonight, September 5, on the ABC network (heavily edited) and will be released on Blu-Ray for this first time this November.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Dancing With the Stars Season 11 Partners

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Dancing with the Stars Season 11 Partners

The contestants for season 11 of "Dancing With the Stars" were announced August 31, and now everyone wants to know who's partnering with whom.

Veteran stage and screen actress Florence Henderson, probably best known for her work on "The Brady Bunch," but who also starred in "South Pacific" at Lincoln Center, will be on the top show.

Also appearing will be Jennifer Grey, who starred in "Dirty Dancing" and probably knows how to handle herself on the dance floor, and Brandy, who played the title role on "Moesha."

The other female contestants are comedienne Margaret Cho, reality star and Carl's Jr. spokeswoman Audrina Partridge, and gubernatorial daughter Bristol Palin.

The men are represented by actor David Hasselhoff, the former star of "Knight Rider," and Kyle Massey, star of Disney Channel series "That's So Raven" and "Cory in the House."

Also competing for the men are singer Michael Bolton, retired football player Kurt Warner, retired basketball player Rick Fox, and reality star Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino of "Jersey Shore."

The partners are expected to be announced on Wednesday morning on "Good Morning America."

Putting together the cast and their partners has been "like putting together the most bizarre and yet entertaining kind of dinner party,” explained senior producer and head of casting Deena Katz.

It has been rumored that Partridge would be partnered with Tony Dovolani because of his height, but she pointed out that Maksim Chmerkovskiy is also tall.

Bristol Palin has confirmed that her dancing partner was Mark Ballas, while professional dancer Edyta Sliwinska confirmed that she would not return to the show this season.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Jane Lynch

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Jane Lynch

One of the big winners of Sunday night's Emmy Awards was Jane Lynch, who received her first Emmy for her work on the comedy series "Glee."

Lynch took home the prize for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy. She had previously been nominated for a guest appearance on "Two and a Half Men."

In her acceptance speech, Lynch explained that actors "have no choice or any marketable skills." She thanked the program's creator, Ryan Murphy, and her costars.

"I have to thank my lord and creator Ryan Murphy for creating this role of a lifetime and the cast who are so young and fresh-faced, and when I'm not seething with jealousy, I'm so proud of you."

Lynch is phenomenal in her role as cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester. Prior to her work on "Glee," she had appeared in several of Christopher Guest's movies, such as "Best in Show" and "A Mighty Wind."

She had also starred in "Lovespring International" and "Party Down" as well as appearing in over 100 other projects.

She is also one of Gina Wilhelm Actress's favorite actors and role model.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

time traveler s wife

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Time Traveler s Wife

Rachel McAdams plays the title character in the 2009 movie "The Time Traveler's Wife," based on the novel of the same title by Audrey Niffenegger.

In the movie, Clare, played by McAdams, is in love with Henry DeTamble, who is played by Eric Bana. Henry has a genetic disorder that causes him to randomly travel through time.

His time traveling causes difficulties for them in building their relationship. The movie also features Haley McCann playing Clare and Henry's (eventual) daughter at ages 9 and 10.

There are several talented young actors in the movie, including Brooklynn Proulx as Clare at ages 6 and 8 and Alex Ferris as Henry at 6, who were both nominated for awards for their performances.

"The Time Traveler's Wife" can be seen on HBO this week and is available on DVD and Blu-Ray.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Ashley Bell

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Ashley Bell

Ashley Bell is the 24-year-old star of "The Last Exorcism," which opens this Friday. In the movie, she plays a girl possessed by the devil.

Bell, who has also appeared in "The United States of Tara," did her own stunts in the movie, some of which even surprised her costars.

Patrick Fabian, who plays an exorcist, found her performance scary. "Ashley would be turning her neck or slithering on the floor and a voice would come out and it just creeped us out," he said.

Starting this Friday, you can get creeped out by Ashley Bell, too!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Elizabeth Berkeley

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Elizabeth Berkeley

As the Christina Aguilera movie "Burlesque" gets ready to open in late November, thoughts turn to another movie exotic dancer, Elizabeth Berkeley in "Showgirls."

In the 1995 movie, Berkeley plays a drifter named Nomi who makes her way to Las Vegas to become a dancer and proceeds to strive to become the lead showgirl in a hotel revue.

In her struggle to become the star, her morals and soul are put to the test.

There is speculation that Aguilera's movie will be reminescent of Berkeley's film, which has attained a cult following in the 15 years since its release.

"Burlesque" opens on November 24, and we'll know then how similar the two movies are.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Jenny Dry Erase Truth is Out

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Jenny Dry Erase Truth is Out

It was a good story. Too good to be true. Jenny quit her job in a way we'd all like to: With photos of dry erase white boards, emailed to 20 of her office co-workers.

She revealed her boss's penchant for FarmVille (instead of productive office work), how he called her a HOPA (Hot Piece Of...um, Action), and how terrible her work conditions were. She said she was looking for a new job, signed off, and the whole Internet wished her well.

http://bit.ly/-jenny3

Good things started to come her way: Jay Leno and The Tonight Show came calling to book her. Newspapers, magazines, swimming pools, movie stars, black gold, Texas tea...

Then the story started to unravel.

Moments after the story hit peak viewership, somebody noticed a whole Facebook fanpage was set up for "Jenny" to pose naked in Playboy magazine, if enough viewers "liked" her page.

http://facebook.com/JennyDryErase

Well, did she really quit in an incendiary burst of glory, or was this a viral attempt to parley her recent employment-bailage fame into bigger--albeit unclad--fame?

A bit of Googling reveals:

"Jenny" is an actress, one Elyse Porterfield, hired to play the "dry erase girl," in a series of stills, posted on her blog.

And now, the sordid, seamy, grimy little truth is out!

http://bit.ly/-jenny1

http://bit.ly/-jenny2

Honestly, I don't know who you can trust these days! I guess...me.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Remembering Older Actress Patricia Neal

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Remembering Older Actress Patricia Neal

Oscar-, Tony- and Golden Globe-winning actress Patricia Neal passed away Sunday of lung cancer at the age of 84.

Neal won a Tony in 1946 for her work in Lillian Hellman's "Another Part of the Forest," which drew the attention of Hollywood.

After appearing in "John Loves Mary" with Ronald Reagan, her second film was "The Fountainhead" opposite Gary Cooper.

Barbara Stanwyck had helped champion the movie to Warner Brothers, but the role eventually went to Neal.

Neal went back to Broadway in the '50s, originating the role of Helen's mother in "The Miracle Worker," and occasionally appeared on television, as in Elia Kazan's "A Face in the Crowd."

She came back to film in 1963 in "Hud," for which she won an Oscar for best actress in a leading role.

Neal suffered a series of debilitating strokes in 1965 requiring lengthy rehabilitation. Two years later she was offered the part of Mrs. Robinson in "The Graduate," which she turned down, feeling it was too soon after her stroke.

A year later she starred in "The Subject was Roses," receiving an Oscar nomination for her comeback role.

"The Subject was Roses" was her last film role, but Neal appeared on television after that. Her last role was in "Flying By" in 2009.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Broadway In Concert!

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Broadway In Concert!




This Saturday, August 14, Seattle Musical Theatre presents "Broadway in Concert: A Gala Fundraiser for Seattle Musical Theatre."


The gala concert features favorite performers from Seattle Musical Theatre performing your favorite Broadway songs--and Gina Wilhelm Actress is one of those performers!

The numbers featured will represent songs from past, current, and future shows that have played on the SMT stage, as well as a few that will probably never be shown there (I believe mine falls into the latter category).

Proceeds from this concert will benefit Seattle Musical Theatre. There are two performances on August 14, one at 3 p.m. and another at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $20 per person, but children under 12 can attend the 3 p.m. performance for free with a paying adult.

Both concerts are on Seattle Musical Theatre's stage at the Magnuson Park Theater, at 7250 62nd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98115, in building 74.

For reservations, please call (206) 363-2809 or visit http://www.seattlemusicaltheatre.com/.

Come to a fun concert for a terrific cause!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Legally Blondes

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Legally Blondes

"Legally Blondes," the third installment in the "Legally Blonde" movie franchise, stars Milly and Becky Rosso as Annie and Izzy Woods, cousins of Elle Woods, the main character of the first two movies.

Rather than taking place in law school or in the courtroom, this movie seems aimed at the Disney Channel set, taking place at a California prep school.

The movie can be found on The Disney Channel and ABC Family as well as at Amazon.com. It was also watched by Justin Bieber on a recent plane flight.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

HMS Pinafore/Cox and Box Review in Seattle Weekly

Gina Wilhelm Actress - HMS Pinafore/Cox and Box Review in Seattle Weekly

The Seattle Weekly has published a short complimentary review of Seattle Gilbert & Sullivan Society's productions of "HMS Pinafore" and "Cox and Box."

Of note, they particularly praised Jenny Shotwell as Josephine and Derek Sellers, our Ralph understudy.

With the second weekend of the play approaching, more reviews are being published. I'm hoping the Seattle Times' review appears Thursday or Friday of this week.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

First Review of HMS Pinafore/Cox and Box

Gina Wilhelm Actress - First Review of HMS Pinafore/Cox and Box

The first review for "HMS Pinafore/Cox and Box," presented by the Seattle Gilbert and Sullivan Society at Seattle's Bagley Wright Theatre has hit the internet.

Philippa Kiraly of TheGatheringNote.org wrote a lovely review. Pay particular attention to her praise of the chorus.

She also particularly liked the work of veteran performers Dave Ross and William Darkow, whom she called a "delight."

"HMS Pinafore" and "Cox and Box" run through July 24.

WHAT: "Cox and Box" and "HMS Pinafore" by Gilbert, Sullivan, and Burnand, performed by the Seattle Gilbert and Sullivan Society.
WHERE: Bagley Wright Theater (Seattle Rep) at the Seattle Center, 155 Mercer Street.
WHEN: July 15-18, and 22-24, 7:30 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday.
TICKET PRICE: $35 adult, $31 senior ($33 and $29 on weeknights), and $12 youth.
TO BUY TICKETS: Call 206-341-9612 or 206-292-ARTS or visit pattersong.org.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

HMS Pinafore/Cox and Box Set Sail Friday!

Gina Wilhelm Actress - HMS Pinafore/Cox and Box Set Sail Friday!

WHAT: "Cox and Box" and "HMS Pinafore" by Gilbert, Sullivan, and Burnand, performed by the Seattle Gilbert and Sullivan Society
WHERE: Bagley Wright Theater (Seattle Rep) at the Seattle Center, 155 Mercer Street
WHEN: July 9-11, 15-18, and 22-24, 7:30 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday.
TICKET PRICE: $35 adult, $31 senior ($33 and $29 on weeknights), and $12 youth.
TO BUY TICKETS: Call 206-341-9612 or 206-292-ARTS or visit pattersong.org.

I am appearing in "HMS Pinafore" with the Seattle Gilbert & Sullivan Society throughout the month of July at the Bagley Wright Theater in Seattle Center. Oddly enough, while I've done many G&S shows, this is my first Pinafore.

"HMS Pinfaore" was the first huge hit for Gilbert & Sullivan, and it's one of their best-known and best-loved plays. With such numbers as "I'm Called Little Buttercup," "We Sail the Ocean Blue," "Sorry Her Lot," "I Am the Captain of the Pinafore," "When I Was a Lad," and "For He Is An Englishman," it's easy to see why.

The show runs with the curtain-raiser "Cox and Box" written by Sullivan before he starting working with that troublemaker Gilbert. The libretto was written by H. C. Burnand. This rarely seen show stars Society favorites Scott Bessho and Richard Hodsdon as the title characters with Craig Cantley as their less-than-honest landlord.

"HMS Pinafore" also features a cast of old favorites and new faces. I play a sister of Sir Joseph Porter. KCB, played by John Brookes. Porter is the delightfully inept First Admiral of the Queen's Navy (although apparently Queen Victoria didn't find the character remotely delightful). Other principals include The Amazing William Darkow as Captain Corcoran, Dave Ross as Dick Deadeye, Angie Barttels as Cousin Hebe, Jenny Shotwell as Josephine, and Wes Aman as the carpenter. Some newer faces include Erin Wise as Little Buttercup, Gene Ma as the Boatswain, and Oliver Donaldson as Ralph Rackstraw. (Our truly fabulous understudies, who will all perform some nights, are Hayley Gaarde as Josephine, Annette Dennis as Buttercup, and Derek Sellers as Ralph).

Both shows have the Society's customary excellent singing, acting, and production values. Pinafore also includes dancers from the ARC School of Ballet.

The show opens July 9 and runs through the 24th. This year we've added Sunday matinees, in addition to the usual Saturday matinees. In addition, every Thursday and Friday night is Family Night, when the audience may stay after final curtain and ask the performers about the show. They are also invited to tour the backstage area.

Evening performances are at 7:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 general ($33 on family night), $31 for seniors ($29 on family nights), and $12 for youth under 25 all nights.

To get tickets, call the ticket office at 206-341-9612 Tuesday through Friday noon to 5:30 p.m., or, at any time you can visit pattersong.org, or call Ticketmaster at 206-292-ARTS.

I hope to see you there!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Breaking Dawn Movie Release Date

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Breaking Dawn Movie Release Date

Even though the new Twilight saga movie "Eclipse" opened today, there is more exciting news in the world of Twilight.

The release date of the next movie in the series, "Breaking Dawn" has been announced.

The final book in the series will be split into two movies. The first movie will be released November 18, 2011.

No date has been announced yet for the release of the second part, but it will likely be in the summer of 2012.

In related news, actress Ashley Greene has been confirmed as returning in the final installment, as will Kellan Lutz. The pair had been rumored to have trouble negotiating their contracts.

Fewer than 18 months until Dawn begins to break!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Daytime Emmys 2010

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Daytime Emmys 2010

The 2010 Emmy Award ceremony is being held tonight, June 27, from Las Vegas, Nevada.

The telecast will air at 9 p.m. (live on the East Coast, tape-delayed on the West Coast) on CBS.

Among the highlights of the night will be a touching tribute to Dick Clark introduced by Ryan Seacrest. The tribute will feature Chubby Checker, the Jersey Boys, Donny Osmond, and Tony Orlando.

Among the award presenters tonight will be Rachael Ray, Rebecca Budig of "All My Children," Sharon Case from "The Young and the Restless," and Susan Lucci, also from "All My Children."

Good luck to all the nominees!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Tony Awards

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Tony Awards

The 64th Tony Awards were given Sunday night. The ceremony included musical numbers from the nominees for musical and musical revivals.

Among the winners in the actress categories were Catherine Zeta-Jones for leading actress in a musical for her role in the revival of "A Little Night Music."

Scarlett Johansson took home the prize for featured actress in a play for her stage debut in "A View from the Bridge."

Viola Davis won the leading actress in a play prize for her role in the revival of "Fences," while Katie Finneran received the featured actress in a musical award for "Promises, Promises."

"Memphis" won best musical, while "La Cage Aux Folles" won best revival of a musical. "Red" won best play, and "Fences" took home best revival of a play.

Congratulations to all of tonight's winners!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Stonehenge Apolcalypse

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Stonehenge Apocalypse

Tonight (Saturday, June 12) saw the premiere of the SyFy original movie "Stonehenge Apocalypse."

In the movie, the rocks at Stonehenge are actually part of some alien machinery that a group of archaeologists accidentally set in motion. This naturally could spell doom for the planet (hence the "apocalypse" of the title).

Mankind's only hope for salvation came in the form of Misha Collins of "Supernatural," playing a radio host reminscent of Art Bell, host of "Coast to Coast AM."

He got some help from Torri Higginson of "Stargate: Atlantis," Hill Harper of "CSI: New York," and Peter Wingfield of "Highlander: The Series."

Although the program premiered Saturday evening, it will air several more times. Check local listings.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Remembering Older Actress Rue McClanahan

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Remembering Older Actress Rue McClanahan

Rue McClanahan, star of "The Golden Girls" passed away Thursday at the age of 76. McClanahan played the highly sexed Blanche Devereaux, who once made a date with a man at her husband's funeral.

Some critics see "The Golden Girls" as a progenitor of "Sex in the City," giving women smart, funny dialogue about sex (and other frank topics). McClanahan won a lead actress Emmy for her work on the show.

Before "The Golden Girls," she appeared on "All in the Family" and "Maude," which starred fellow Golden Girl Bea Arthur.

She also acted in movies and on stage, winning an Obie award for her work in "Who's Happy Now?" an off-Broadway play.

She also originated the role of Lady MacBird in "MacBird!" a play that melded Lyndon B. Johnson and Shakespeare's "MacBeth."

She was also pleased to have received a letter from Tennessee Williams lauding her performance as Caitlin Thomas, Williams' wife and Dylan Thomas' daughter in the play "Dylan."

Born Eddi-Rue McClanahan, her first performance was at age 4 in "The Three Little Kittens." "A character actor even then," McClanahan said.

Critic Edith Oliver said of her stage debut in "Who's Happy Now?" that McClanahan gave a “first-rate comedy performance that is always legitimate — no hokum, nothing but truth.”

She is greatly missed.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

New York Actress Leo Reflects on her Career

Gina Wilhelm Actress - New York Actress Leo Reflects on her Career

Melissa Leo grew up in New York's East Village and went to theater school in London. After quitting college, she nannied, waitressed--and went to an audition between shifts.

The audition was for the movie "The Razor's Edge" and was opposite Bill Murray.

At the audition, he gave her some advice: "'You're much too young for this part, but if you really want to do this, you should just do it."

Leo said, "He seemed, in the moment, to be saying I had something...I felt he was giving me a gift. Whether he was or not, I have no idea. But I quit work that afternoon and said, 'I will now only take work as an actor.'"

It paid off, eventually. She worked on TV for a while, starring on "Homicide: Life on the Streets" for a while.

Now she is about to star on the HBO series "Treme" as well as a remake of "Mildred Pierce" and will lead in "The Dry Land."

She also starred in "Frozen River," for which she received an Oscar nomination nearly 25 years after her fateful audition with Bill Murray.

Of her career, she says, "There was nothing that was going to deter me from it. Now I get this gratitude coming from very fine actors I know who cannot get hired. They thank me for staying in there and proving to them that if they just stick with it, that's all it might take."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Joanna Garcia

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Joanna Garcia

Joanna Garcia is engaged to New York Yankees' outfielder Nick Swisher.

Swisher told "Sports Illustrated" in September 2009 said that the "Privileged" star was "his lady." Swisher also called Garcia "amazing" on "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon."

In addition to starring as Megan Smith on "Privileged," Garcia also starred as Cheyenne on "Reba."

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Holly Robinson Peete

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Holly Robinson Peete

The final round of NBC's "Celebrity Apprentice" aired tonight, deciding between actress Holly Robinson Peete and rocker Brett Michaels.

Robinson Peete, who starred on shows like "21 Jump Street" and "Love, Inc.," was playing for a chance to win a prize for her charity of choice, HollyRod.

HollyRod is a charitable foundation set up by the actress and her husband, former NFL player Rodney Peete, to support families who have a loved one with a serious medical condition.

Both Robinson Peete and Michaels developed new flavors of Snapple tea and gave strong presentations. Robinson Peete's flavor is CompassionBerry, while Micheals' is Trop-a-Rocka.

However, in the face of a number of life-threatening medical conditions in recent weeks, Michaels was the heavy favorite to win the competition.

At the start of the final episode, Robinson Peete revealed that her 5-year-old son had told her "Mom, I love you, but I’m kinda pulling for Bret."

I won't reveal the winner here, but both Michaels' and Robinson Peete's tea flavors are available for purchase for a limited time.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Megan Fox Transformers 3

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Megan Fox Transformers 3

On Wednesday, May 19th, Paramount Studios announced that actress Megan Fox would not be returning to reprise her role as Mikaela Banes in "Transformers 3."

In the early part of the day, Paramount said the studio had declined to pick up Megan Fox's contractual option for the third movie.

However, by the evening, Megan Fox's representative reported that it was the actress herself who chose not to appear in the movie.

Last summer there was a heated exchange between Megan Fox and Michael Bay, the director of the previous "Transformers" movies.

Regardless of whose decision it was, when "Transformers 3" opens in summer 2011, star Shia LaBeouf will likely get a new female love interest.

Of interest is the report that Megan Fox auditioned for the role in the first place by washing Michael Bay's ferrari while he filmed her. I wonder whose car she'll wash next.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Many Meetings on Auditions

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Audition Meetings

This afternoon I met with two friends to talk about auditions and how I can improve my results in them.

My first meeting was with Cyndi Thomsen, who directed me in "A Christmas Story" and was present at my Theatre Puget Sound general audition.

At our meeting, she suggested a variety of things, including meeting with a singing teacher who could find a song that suits me well and isn't likely to be sung by every other actress coming into the room.

She suggested a number of classes, as well as taking something like Zumba or yoga to keep limber and active.

The most important thing she advised was to find monologues and songs that really show who the actor is.

As a director, she's had people come in and obviously audition for a particular role. Those people don't generally get the part. But those who connect to their monologue tend to get the callback and often the role.

She suggested asking onself, "What am I saying to the director?"

Afterwards, I met with Sam Longoria, writer, director, producer, editor, and actor. We wrote an audition monologue together. It's hilarious, and I can guarantee no one else will perform it at my next audition.

Thank you so much to both Cyndi and Sam for your invaluable help!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Veronica Lake

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Veronica Lake

Veronica Lake, born Constance Frances Marie Ockelman and known for her signature hairstyle (blonde flowing locks draped seductively over her right eye), was born in Brooklyn, New York, on November 14, 1922.

Her breakout role was in 1941's "I Wanted Wings." Though "only" the second female lead, she stole scene after scene.

She became known as one of the most reliable box office draws in Hollywood, and was frequently paired with Alan Ladd on screen.

My favorite Veronica Lake film is Preston Sturges' masterpiece "Sullivan's Travels." Known only as The Girl, Lake goes from tough to vulnerable to ebullient through the movie. She's wonderful. And, when disguised as a hobo, she's absolutely adorable.

It seems the studio didn't know how to promote Lake or the film. One tagline was "Veronica Lake is on the Take." Catchy, but completely unrelated to the movie.

If you don't know "Sullivan's Travels," go watch it now. And get to know Veronic Lake. She was absolutely wonderful, and her life and body of work deserve to be celebrated.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

30 Days of Night

Gina Wilhelm Actress - 30 Days of Night

Production has wrapped on "30 Days of Night: Dark Days," the sequel to 2007's "30 Days of Night." The vampire movie is set to be released on DTV.

The movie is set a year after the events of the previous movie and stars Kiele Sanchez in the role of Stella, taking over for actress Melissa George.

In the movie, based on a graphic novel series, Stella takes on the world's vampires to avenge her husband.

"Dark Days" also stars Mia Kirshner as Lillith, one of the oldest vampires in the world.

Director Ben Ketai said of Kirshner's performance, "For such a slight person as she (physically) is, she commands such power...Kirshner was a great casting choice because she’s an actress that can say a whole lot without saying anything. She really did a nice job stepping into the role.”

Ketai hopes Sony will release "30 Days of Night: Dark Days" around Halloween, but says they might wait until the end of the "horror season."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Evangeline Lilly

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Evangeline Lilly

Evangeline Lilly, star of ABC's "Lost," is on "Late Night with David Letterman" tonight, May 10, on CBS at 11:35 p.m.

Lilly, who was born in Canada, plays Kate Austin on the popular ABC program. "Lost" is now running its final month worth of episodes before the series ends.

"Lost" was Lilly's big break. She has since been nominated for a Golden Globe and had a supporting role in last year's best picture Oscar winner "The Hurt Locker."

Also appearing on tonight's "Late Night" are Sam Rockwell and the cast of Tony-nominated musical "Million Dollar Quartet."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Busy Phillips

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Busy Phillips

Busy Philips' given name is Elizabeth Jean Philips. She earned her nickname because as a baby, she was constantly moving. The name stuck to the point that it appears on her driver's license.

Busy frequently plays supporting roles, notably with her role Kim Kelly in "Freaks and Geeks," as well as appearing in "Dawson's Creek."

She also works in movies like "Made of Honor" and "He's Just Not That Into You."

She currently plays Laurie Keller on the series "Cougar Town."

Images of Busy can be seen at thefashionspot.com.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Secretariat

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Secretariat

The first trailer for the upcoming Disney movie "Secretariat" has been released on the Internet.

"Secretariat" stars Diane Lane as Penny Chenery, who owned the famed racehorse, which won the Triple Crown in 1973. The movie also stars John Malkovich as trainer Lucien Laurin.

"Secretariat" tells Penny's story as she agrees to take over her father's horse stables. Despite her lack of horse-racing knowledge, she goes on to raiser the first Triple Crown-winner in 25 years.

The movie, which is set to be released on October 8, 2010, looks like a strong starring vehicle for actress Lane.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Anne Bancroft

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Anne Bancroft

"The Graduate," starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft and directed by Mike Nichols, aired tonight at 8 p.m. on TCM. Want to know more about Anne Bancroft? Read on....

Mel Brooks recently reflected on his first meeting with the statuesque actress. She had just performed the song "Married, I Could Always Get" on "The Perry Como Show" when Brooks approached her.

“I’m Mel Brooks and I’m going to marry you,” he proclaimed. She responded, “Hey, I have your record.” It was his album with Carl Reiner, "The Two-Thousand Year Old Man."

“The album came out in 1960, and this was Feb. 5, 1961. From that day, until her death on June 5, 2005, we were glued together," Brooks recalled.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Glee on Oprah

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Glee on Oprah

The cast of Fox's hit show "Glee" visited Oprah Winfrey's talk show April 7 to talk about "Glee" and promote their return to the airwaves next week on April 13.

Some of the secrets revealed by the cast of "Glee" were that they shoot daily, sometimes up to 16 hours a day, and rehearse on the weekend.

They also said a day can start at 6 a.m. and "they can work on anywhere from two to four song and dance routines lasting roughly two to eight hours a day."

Cory Monteith, who plays Finn, revealed that he had never sung outside the shower or car before the show, and Amber Riley, who plays Mercedes, assured fans that the cast are actually good friends.

Jane Lynch, the actress who plays gung-ho cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester, says she's nothing like her character, but Matthew Morrison said Lea Michele is as driven, though not as unlikeable, as her character, Rachel.

Oprah also got some footage from a rehearsal when Neil Patrick Harris will guest star on the show, and series creator Ryan Murphy revealed he made the show "to put something optimistic on TV."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

The Ten Commandments Movie

Gina Wilhelm Actress - The Ten Commandments Movie

It's an American Easter tradition: The night before Easter, the ABC television network airs Cecil B. DeMille's "The Ten Commandments."

DeMille was the "archetypical Hollywood director" for 50 years. He acted on Broadway in 1900, but by 1913 had joined the filmmaking group that would eventually become Paramount Pictures.

Although today he is best known for his Biblical epics, DeMille made popular "sharp social comedies," western, and American history films.

DeMille wrote many of his pictures before 1925 (often writing the stage plays the movie would be based on), edited several between 1914 and 1918, and was the producer on most of his films as well.

He was a leading director of "A" movies from 1914 until his final directorial effort, "The Ten Commandments," in 1956.

The epic was in part a remake of a 1923 silent film by the same name. In fact, some of the cast and crew of the '23 movie worked on the '56 picture.

The classic stars Charlton Heston as Moses, Yul Brynner as his adoptive brother Pharoah Ramses II, and Anne Baxter as Nefretiri.

The movie has been hailed by the American Film Institute as one of the ten best epics of all time. It is also one of the most financially successful films of all time.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Amish Grace

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Amish Grace

Tonight The Lifetime Movie Network premiered the original movie "Amish Grace."

The movie is a dramatization of a real incident in the Amish community of Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania in which a gunman killed five Amish schoolgirls before taking his own life.

Tammy Blanchard played the widow of the gunman. The Huffington Post called her "an amazing actress" who "deserves to get better and better roles."

Kimberly Williams-Paisley played the mother of one of the girls who finds it difficult to forgive, feeling it would be an abandonment of her daughter's love.

The movie tells how the Amish put their faith into action at the most difficult part of their lives. It's based on the book of the same name.

It premiered Sunday at 8 p.m. Eastern/5 p.m. Pacific, and reruns March 29, April 1, 2, 10, and 11. Check local listings for details.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Anne Curtis Malfunction Photo

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Anne Curtis Malfunction Photo

Yet another actress has suffered an embarrassing wardrobe malfunction. This time it was Anne Curtis, who had the costume mishap while taping an episode of "ASAP XV."

The show is a musical variety show in Borcay. Curtis was dancing and performing "Babe, I Love You," when half her bikini top slipped off.

Curtis has asked that the photos, which are spreading rapidly over the Internet, be removed. She may want to rethink that, though: The Internet Movie Database lists a 20% bump in popularity for the actress this week.

Luckily, our friends at Gather.com have given some hints on how to avoid such wardrobe malfunctions in the future.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Wardrobe Malfunction on Good Actress Heigl

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Wardrobe Malfunction on Good Actress Heigl

Katherine Heigl received the Female Star of the Year award at this year's ShoWest Awards function in Las Vegas.

Unfortunately, as the "27 Dresses" star was giving her speech, the strap on her gown broke, causing some embarrassment for the star.

This was shortly after she told E! News that she gets self-conscious about looking good in public, keeping her hair, makeup, and-yes-clothing in place.

She handled the situation with aplomb, continuing her remarks while holding the dress, which was later held up by awards show host Billy Bush.

Afterwards, she told Us Magazine through her representative that "She appreciates Billy's 'support.'"

Gina Wilhelm Actress

The Price of Being a Good Actress?

Gina Wilhelm Actress - The Price of Being a Good Actress?

Just two weeks after receiving her Best Actress Oscar, the Internet is abuzz with the news that Sandra Bullocks' husband, Jesse James, has been unfaithful to her.

According to People Magazine, Bullock left the home just a few days before the news was broken and is not currently living with James.

James is rumored to have had an 11-month relationship with Michelle "Bombshell" McGee while Bullock was filming "The Blind Side," the movie for which she won her Oscar.

Bullock is the latest in a long line of Best Actress winners whose relationships got into trouble after they received their Oscars.

Hilary Swank, Halle Berry, and Reese Witherspoon all divorced shortly after their Oscar wins (or in Swank's case, after her second win). Last year's winner, Kate Winslet has also divorced her husband.

Likewise, Julia Roberts and Charlize Theron have broken up with their boyfriends. This is a strikingly different trend than with the best actors, where only one winner in the last decade has divorced.

If you're a woman, think twice before saying, "Everything would be better if I won the Oscar."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Older Actress White is "Hot"

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Older Actress White is "Hot"

Earlier this blog reported about the online campaign to get veteran actress Betty White to host "Saturday Night Live." That campaign worked, and the 88-year-old White will host the comedy show on May 8.

It's been reported that former "SNL" cast members will also appear on the show, including Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Rachel Dratch, and Maya Rudolph, though NBC would not confirm that.

It will be her first time hosting the sketch program.

In addition, she's about to star in the first scripted original sitcom to appear on the network TV Land, called "Hot in Cleveland."

That show will costar Jane Leeves, Valerie Bertinelli, and Wendie Malick. A great cast, led by a great veteran actress with an over-50-year career.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Hannah Montana Forever

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Hannah Montana Forever

Probably not forever. But the news has come out that the popular Disney program starring Miley Cyrus will be on for another season.

The third season finale, which aired March 14, was titled "Miley Says Goodbye?" At the end of the episode, some fans thought the series was over.

However, the Disney Channel is airing promos for a "pivotal" fourth season to begin this summer. Tween girls will be thrilled.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Drawing Inspiration from Good Actress Mo'Nique

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Drawing Inspiration from Good Actress Mo'Nique

When Mo'Nique won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar on Sunday, there were a lot of excited fans. But some of the most excited came from her native Baltimore.

Rachel Hilson, a singer, dancer, and actress at the Baltimore School of the Arts was particularly inspired by Mo'Nique's win for portraying an abusive mother in "Precious."

"I think that Mo'Nique is such an inspiration, regardless of where she is from. However, being from Baltimore, which is not the easiest city to live in, she is even more of an inspiration." Hilson said.

She also explained that watching Mo'Nique helped to "clarify my desire to become an actress." Next, Hilson will compete in the NAACP's ACT-SO competition. It sounds like she's pretty clear.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Best Actress Winner 2010

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Best Actress Winner 2010

It's final, it's official, the debate is over: The winner of the best actress Oscar for 2010 is Sandra Bullock for her turn in "The Blind Side."

After each actress was given a touching individual introduction, Bullock was named the winner. She jokingly rebuffed a hug from fellow nominee Meryl Streep before taking the stage.

Bullock gave tribute to each fellow nominee before thanking mothers everywhere.

With this win, Sandra Bullock becomes the first actress to be receiva a Best Actress Oscar and a Worst Actress Razzie (an award she relishes, for "All About Steve") in the same year.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Last Chance to Debate Oscar's Good Actress

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Last Chance to Debate Oscar's Good Actress

With The Oscar ceremony mere hours away (5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET on ABC), there are also mere hours to debate who will take home the best actress award.

Although the conventional wisdom is that it's between Meryl Streep and Sandra Bullock, entertainmentandshowbiz.com advise not counting out Helen Mirren or Gabourey Sidibe.

Of particular import, they point to the fact that Gabourey Sidibe (as well as costar and supporting actress favorite Mo'Nique) were both honored at the NAACP Image Awards.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Cicely Tyson Honored

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Cicely Tyson Honored

Cicely Tyson is going to be honored at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon. Tyson will receive the Legend Award.

She will get the award at the March 4 event at the Beverly Hils Hotel in Los Angeles alongside previously announced honorees Queen Latifah, Zoe Saldana, Mary J. Blige, and Gabourey Sidibe.

The Legend Award honors "pioneers who have paved the way and broken barriers for African-American actresses in Hollywood."

The 76-year-old Tyson was nominated for a best leading actress Oscar in 1972 for her work in "Sounder."

She also won two Emmys for her work in 1974's "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman." She also appeared in such projects as "Roots" and "The Women of Brewster Place."

Congratulations!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Trying to Pick Oscar's Good Actress

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Trying to Pick Oscar's Good Actress

Apparently the best actor race is all tied up already (I had no idea, did you?) and will go to Jeff Bridges.

That leaves the debate open for the best actress award. Bloggers Jack Matthews and Anne Thompson both think Meryl Streep should win, but suspect that Sandra Bullock may get the Oscar instead.

Both bloggers suspect that voters may think they'll never get another chance to vote for Bullock and therefore give it to her for her role in "The Blind Side."

Matthews, who writes for Moviefone, thinks that they might honor Streep for her portrayal of Julia Child in "Julie & Julia" since voters like to honor performances they don't think they could give themselves.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Hilary Duff Engagement

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Hilary Duff Engagement

Hilary Duff, star of Lizzie McGuire, got engaged recently while on vacation in Hawaii.

Rumors have circulated several times that she was engaged to hockey player Mike Comrie, whom the 22-year-old actress has dated for two years.

However, this time her representative has confirmed that the pair actually got engaged over Valentine's weekend.

Comrie plays for the Edmonton Oilers. Duff was spotted at Katsuya in LA showing off her ring. The pair is looking to buy a mansion together in Beverley Hills.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Caroline McWilliams Remembered

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Caroline McWilliams Remembered

Broadway and television veteran and Seattle native Caroline McWilliams passed away earlier this month at the age of 64.

McWilliams was part of the Broadway revival cast of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" in 1975, as well as starring in "The Rothschilds" and "Boccaccio."

She also appeared in the New York Shakespeare Festival and worked off Broadway in the American Shakespeare Festival.

On television, she was best known for playing Marcy Hill on "Benson" and Sally on "Soap."

Her big break came when she was cast in "Guiding Light" in 1969. She also was on "Another World" and later appeared on "Beverley Hills, 90210."

She will be missed.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Celebrating Dorothy Dandridge

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Celebrating Dorothy Dandridge

African American actress Dorothy Dandridge got her start as part of a child act with her sister Vivian in an act known as The Wonder Children.

She came to Hollywood during the Depression. Unsatisfied with the sorts of roles she got, she continued to perform live with her sister in an act now known as The Dandridge Sisters.

Dandridge felt she wasn't the greatest singer, but knew her greatest talents lay in her beauty, poise, and elegance.

She was the first African American woman to receive a best actress Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Carmen Jones."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Older Actress White Surprised by Facebook Campaign

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Older Actress White Surprised by Facebook Campaign

Betty White is at the center of a campaign on Facebook to have her host "Saturday Night Live." The campaign currently has some 331,000 fans.

This all comes after White's turn in a Snickers ad that aired during the Super Bowl.

"I don't even know where that came from," White admitted. However, she doubted "SNL" producer Lorne Michaels knew about the campaign, so wasn't too worried about it.

That said, she did admit that if her schedule allowed and she was invited, she would be willing to host the comedy show.

The 88-year-old humorously promises that this Betty White Renaissance will come to an end soon. "It will go away, I promise."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

"Company" at Seattle Musical Theatre

Gina Wilhelm Actress - "Company" at Seattle Musical Theatre

Stephen Sondheim's "Company" opened this weekend at Seattle Musical Theatre and is playing through February 28. I had the opportunity to see the show today, and I highly recommend it.

The play was groundbreaking when it premiered, telling a story in associated vignettes, rather than as a linear narrative.

The play tells the story of Robert, played by Ryan Demerick, on his 35th birthday. Robert's married friends are throwing him a birthday party. Throughout the play, Robert and his friends reflect on marriage.

The whole cast, made up of SMT veterans and a few strong newcomers, is very strong, handling the intricate rhythms and harmonies masterfully.

Standouts include Demerick, who has much of the weight of the show on his shoulders, and must make frequent rapid mood shifts throughout. His "Being Alive" was poignant.

Allison Standley, as Marta, has a strong voice on "Another Hundred People," extolling the virtues of Manhattan, before having a fun dialogue with Robert.

Kat Schroeder, last seen at SMT as Ulla in "The Producers," brilliantly portrayed frantic neurosis in her patter song "Getting Married Today."

Dawn Brazell gives a powerful performance as Joanne, a "difficult woman," who is brashy and strident. Her "The Ladies Who Lunch" was a revealing insight into the character.

Finally, Danielle Barnum, was played the title character in "Jane Eyre," was adorable as April. Her performance was all the more impressive for the contrast between the two characters.

April and Robert have the duet "Barcelona," which can be dull and pedantic, but here was charming.

The high point of the show for me was their scene together before that duet. The characters connected well with each other and the audience.

"Company" runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm. They also have a 7:30 performance on Thursday, February 25.

Tickets can be purchased by calling 206-363-2809. You can also visit the SMT website. Tickets range from $30-35 for adults and $25-30 for students and seniors.

The address for Magnuson Park is 7400 Sand Point Way NE. The theater is in building 47. Directions and maps are also on the SMT website.

The website also has a "study guide" for the play. Come find out why Sondheim called "Company" his favorite show he's written!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Gypsy Rose Lee

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Gypsy Rose Lee

Timed to coincide with the 99th birthday of Gypsy Rose Lee, rumors are circulating that the most recent Broadway revival starring Patty LuPone may be coming to London's West End.

Born in Seattle, Gypsy's burlesque routines would emphasize the "tease" in striptease. It's said she removed less clothing than other burlesque dancers.

Gypsy's routines, instead, featured wit, intelligence, and sophistication. She said “You don’t have to be naked to look naked. You just have to think naked.”

Lee wrote a memoir about her life in vaudeville, burlesque, and her domineering mother, which became the basis for "Gypsy."

On stage, "Gypsy" starred Ethel Merman. It was made into a film starring Rosalind Russell. There was also a TV movie in 1993 starring Bette Midler.

The LuPone revival, directed by Arthur Laurents, closed in January 2009 and won three Tony awards.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Good Actress Danes Shines in Latest Role

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Good Actress Danes Shines in Latest Role

Claire Danes made a big splash in 1995 in the beloved brilliant-but-cancelled "My So-Called Life."

Since then, she's played a number of lead roles in less brilliant movies, or small supporting roles in high-quality projects, but nothing on-screen that really demonstrated the talent of "Life."

That is, until now. Danes stars in "Temple Grandin," where she plays the title role, an autistic pioneer of the animal-welfare movement. "Temple Grandin" premiered on HBO on February 6.

Director Mick Jackson said it took him "about three nanoseconds" to realize that Danes was the perfect actress for the role.

"Claire is an actress who, in many ways, has some of Temple's own characteristics -- a directness, a determination...to see something through in the right possible way and get it right," explained Jackson.

"Temple Grandin" starring Claire Danes will continue to air on HBO throughout the month of February.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Remembering Frances Reid

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Remembering Frances Reid

Frances Reid passed away on February 3 at the grand age of 97. Reid was an original cast member of the soap opera "Days of Our Lives."

Reid was born in Texas and grew up in California. She had been with the television show since its premiere in 1965.

She had also appeared on such classic shows as "Wagon Train" and "Dr. Kildare."

Reid was nominated for two Daytime Emmys and won two Soapys and three Soap Opera Digest awards. She also received a lifetime achievement award from the Daytime Emmys.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

The Best Years of Our Lives

Gina Wilhelm Actress - The Best Years of Our Lives

Turner Classic Movies ran "The Best Years of Our Lives" on February 2nd. The 1946 William Wyler movie starred Fredric March, Myrna Loy, Dana Andrews, Teresa Wright, Virginia Mayo, and Hoagy Carmichael.

The movie shows the effects of war on ordinary citizens, particularly three servicemen after World War II.

The film won seven Academy Awards. It received Best Writing (Screenplay), Best Film Editing, and Best Music (Score of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture).

More notably, it also won Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best Director, Best Motion Picture, and an Honorary Award.

A great way to start Oscar season: By watching one of the classics that won big at the Oscars 60 years ago.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

German Actress Named Best Actress International

Gina Wilhelm Actress - German Actress Named Best Actress International

Diane Kruger, star of Quentin Tarantino's "Inglourious Basterds," received the Goldene Kamera Best Actress International award on January 30.

The award originally began as a prize for German television stars. Over the years, it has evolved into an honor for international actors.

Ironically enough, while the award is given in Germany for international actors, Kruger is, herself, German.

Danny DeVito and Richard Gere also were honored on Saturday.

Congratulations to all the honorees!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Erica Rhodes Barney Idol

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Erica Rhodes Barney Idol

Tonight everyone's excited about the performance of Erica Rhodes on "American Idol."

Rhodes has been acting and singing and dancing since she was a small child. She was on "Barney & Friends," where she was "innocent" and "sweet."

The 23-year-old showed a different side of herself at the Texas auditions. She came dressed in full dominatrix gear, complete with a leather miniskirt, platform stiletto heels, and a whip.

She also sang a, well, stirring rendition of En Vogue's "Free Your Mind." It was very different than her work on "Barney." See for yourself!

The audition-and the outfit-worked. She impressed all the judges, but especially Simon. Rhodes is headed to Hollywood and the next round of "American Idol."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Miki Howard

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Miki Howard

Miki Howard was on Mo'Nique's talk show Monday. Howard is a singer and actress who was discovered in 1977 at age 15 after she sang at a teen pageant.

Augie Johnson, a member of Side Effect, was in the audience at that pageant, and started working with Howard after that. Howard joined Side Effect in addition to singing backup for a number of other singers.

She then moved on to a successful and lengthy solo career. Her most recent album was released in 2006. Take a listen!

In 1992 she moved on to acting, appearing as Billie Holliday in "Malcolm X."

She's about to appear in the new movie "April's Fools," which will open this April. What a fascinating and exciting career she's having!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Kick Some Past Trailer

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Kick Some Past Trailer

The trailer for "Hot Tub Time Machine" has made its debut, and it looks like a fun movie. The trailer features the tag line "Kick Some Past."

Starring Lizzy Caplan, Kate Walsh, John Cusack, Rob Corddry, Crispin Glover, Craig Robinson, and many others, the comedy is a throwback to '80's sex comedies.

In the movie, Cusack, Corddry, Robinson, and Clark Duke get drunk in a hot tub and wake up the next morning to find themselves transported to 1986. They'll have to fix what they did in the past.

Of course, I love John Cusack's movies about the '80's that were actually made in the '80's.

I'm sure that the bear in the hot tub is part of the problem. Remember, kids, you heard it here first: Hot tub + bear = time travel.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Tiny Tim Tiptoe Through the Tulips a la Brian Krause

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Tiny Tim Tiptoe Through the Tulips a la Brian Krause

Did you see tonight's "American Idol" auditions? Specifically, the audition of one Brian Krause (an extremely polite young man), as he attempts to imitate Tiny Tim.

In order to hit Tim's falsetto notes, he screws up his face in what can only be described as a most unappealing way.

Perhaps if there'd been less mincing, it would have been better. Or if he'd had a ukelele. Ukeleles make everything better.

Don't believe me? Check out Tiny Tim's version. This one's my favorite.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Renee Walker 24 Star

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Renee Walker 24 Star

Wall Street Journal reports Annie Wersching, who plays Renee Walker, returns to season 8 of "24."

I'm dying to know if there will be a romance between her and Jack Bauer, who is played by Kiefer Sutherland!

Wersching is in the show starting episode 3, and she's not saying. She has revealed the Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU) has a more exciting set this year. Woo hoo!

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Older Actress Walters Went Extra Mile for Role

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Older Actress Walters Went Extra Mile for Role

Actress Julie Walters already bore a striking resemblance to Mo Mowlam when she was cast to play the politician.

In order to play Mowlam, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the 59-year-old Walters even shaved her head.

Originally she was supposed to wear a bald cap, but Walters realized how long it would take to do every day. She said, "I think the thing to do is for me to shave all my hair off."

Although the movie looks at Mowlam's politics, Walters declares, "they're almost in the background, eclipsed by Mo herself - which everything was."

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Actress Images from Critics' Choice Awards

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Actress Images from Critics' Choice Awards

The Critics' Choice Awards were held this weekend, and Meryl Streep and Sandra Bullock tied for the best actress.

After coming up to the podium, Bullock kissed Streep full on the lips and said that Streep inspired her to do everything better.

In the press room, both actresses praised the other and posed for photos.

Gina Wilhelm Actress

Actress Falco Rewarded for her Funny Side

Gina Wilhelm Actress - Actress Falco Rewarded for her Funny Side

Edie Falco always considered herself a dramatic actress. While there were funny bits in "The Sopranos," the show was considered a drama.

Likewise, she's been praised on stage for roles in shows like "'Night, Mother," "Side Man," and "Frankie and Johnnie in the Clair de Lune."

In fact, when she read the first draft of the script for her Showtime program "Nurse Jackie," there were few laughs to be had.

So Falco is still surprised when she finds herself nominated for best comedy actress awards. Already she's been nominated for a Golden Globe, a Satellite Award, and Screen Actors Guild Award for the show.

Executive producers Linda Wallem and Liz Brixius revamped the show as a dark comedy. "The idea that it's a comedy? I still struggle with that," Falco admits.

Gina Wilhelm Actress