Harry Connick Jr. Returns to American Idol — Signs for Season 14

“Hatchet Harry” will don his judging hat for another installment of ‘American Idol,’ as Season 14 is also expected to see the return of his well-liked cohorts. Though Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez have yet to sign, Idol has made their expectations clear, calling the trio their “dream team.” If you haven’t tuned in this season, you’re missing out. For the first time in years, the judges are actually giving tangible critiques of each contestant, with Harry Connick Jr. leading the charge. For a show that’s been more about insulting the contestants or calling them “pitchy” in excess, it’s a refreshing revamp. Watch an interview with the very handsome Harry below.

DEJA-VIEW — Barbara Walters Reunites All Co-Hosts from The View

Today was a bittersweet day on ‘The View,’ as all the co-hosts came together for a Barbara Walters sendoff. And in case you were concerned about how they would all fit, they took a special seat at an extra-big table. I must say that I miss Joy Behar’s one-liners the most, and it was quite nice to see Meredith Viera’s calm temperament on stage again. Watch the very sweet reunion below.

Michael Jackson and Justin Timberlake Disturbingly Perform ‘Love Never Felt So Good’

Take a moment, put down the crazy juice, and ask yourself whether it’s appropriate to release a dead man’s music with a currently alive person mimicking his moves? To top it off, Timberlake’s moves are so heavily edited that it’s clear he doesn’t hold a candle to Jackson’s choreography, so his presence feels nothing more than gratuitous. Is this an “honor,” or a stale attempt to capitalize on a legend’s empire? Call me a buzzkill, but I’m not on board. Watch the video below. Jackson wrote the song with Paul Anka in 1983, and up until now, it’s been shelved.

Alex Preston Slays ‘Stay’ — Watch #IDOL Performance

I must confess I’ve been secretly rooting against Alex Preston, considering nearly every American Idol winner fits his bill and has not had continued post-show success (see Phillip Philips, Lee Dewyze, David Cook, and a handful of others). Last night, he proved he stands alone, and because he’s a songwriter with a unique look, it’s possible he’ll win the show AND the after-show. Idol needs a breakout star badly, and this is a true test. Watch his chilling performance of ‘Stay’ below.

Eminem Releases ‘Headlights’ — WATCH VIDEO

Eminem released his special tribute video to his mother, presumably in a public effort to temper their previous tension. For fans that have followed Eminem’s career, he’s spotlighted his disturbing childhood in numerous other songs, but perhaps his new-found sobriety has revealed a softer side. Watch ‘Headlights’ below.

Katherine Heigl’s State of Affairs — WATCH THE TRAILER

The true ‘State of Affairs’ about NBC’s pickup is that it’s Katherine Heigl’s last chance at a mainstream role. She severely damaged her career with caustic criticisms of every set she stepped foot on, and she hasn’t been given a huge opportunity since. It remains to be seen whether this show will overshadow her stigma, but Hollywood sure likes to give second chances . . . and fifth chances.

Watch the trailer below.

TRUE TORI — Dean Blames Cheating on His Wife

While I’ve strongly objected to the intimate taping of Tori Spelling’s marital woes, the video below is a must see. Dean McDermott attempted to justify or “explain” his infidelity on Tori turning him down for sex, and Tori rightfully lost her mind. She then exposed having done things in the bedroom she’d never done before because her husband kept trying to “raise the bar.” I’m no creative thinker, but I’m guessing the word in question rhymes with anal. Watch below.


Schwinn Bike Donated to National MS Society — BID NOW

Schwinn generously donated a Hollywood cruiser that was signed by stars like Elijah Wood and Maggie Gyllenhaal. Today is the last day to bid on the bike, and all proceeds benefit The National MS Society. The Buy It Now price is $4,000. Click here to bid. Check out images below.

Clockwise: Morgan Saylor, Cameron Monaghan, Madison Beaty, Noah Silver
Clockwise: Morgan Saylor, Cameron Monaghan, Madison Beaty, Noah Silver
Clockwise: Tim Daly, Elijah Wood, Alanna Ubach, Maggie Gyllenhaal
Clockwise: Tim Daly, Elijah Wood, Alanna Ubach, Maggie Gyllenhaal
Jason Schwartzman
Jason Schwartzman
Ian Brennan, Glee writer
Ian Brennan, Glee writer