While other networks continue to beat the corpse of the reality show genre into the ground, Fox has decided to forge ahead by reaching back to a format that was popular in the 1970s. Fox has ordered six episodes of a variety show starring the Osbourne family (dad Ozzy, mom Sharon, daughter Kelly, and son Jack.).

Casting a man known for his incoherent mumbling, sluggishness, and unbridled use of expletives to headline a show whose genre is known for squeaky clean campy entertainment and energetic banter may seem odd to some. How can a guy who mistakenly thought that a live bat was a plastic toy and accidentally bit of its head possibly carry the torch from the likes of Donny and Marie and The Carpenters?

But wait — I recall that a certain variety show featured an incoherent, insane and hirsute rocker and still ended up being wildly successful.

And who said that being articulate was a prerequisite for being cast in such a show? … continue reading

Glamour magazine held its annual Women of the Year awards in London last night. From the winners and attendees, it's fair to say that the Brits are still ahead of the game in who they consider the top lady achievers. I'd be surprised to see several of the winners included on any American list.

Some of the winners include:

Beth Ditto – International Musician
… continue reading

When I read the article announcing that Kelly Osbourne would be taking over the role of Matron "Mama" Morton in the West End production of Chicago, I rested my head on my desk and wept quietly.

Actually, first I read the name as Kelly Clarkson (and have not been able to get that out of my head!), reread the article and thought, "Argh! I hate stunt casting!"

Now, I know the arguments in favor of stunt casting. It increases box office and exposes more people to theater (or theatre, in the West End). The standards for musicals are lower in London than in New York (although the standards for plays are higher), and this particular production is notorious for its stunt casting. Ashlee Simpson has already played Roxie! So should I really be upset that a reality show star with little or no training is taking over a great role for which she's 20 years too young? … continue reading