It’s a shame to see ‘American Idol’ in its last year, especially since the ratings still warrant buzz, but I suppose they’d like to stop the bleeding before it gets any worse given that the viewership is decreasing each year. It’s also worth noting that they have not produced a star in some time, so hopefully they’ll go out on top. I’ve seen many of the auditions thus far, and Jenn Blosil is the first to grab my attention. Watch her chilling rendition of Imagine Dragons’ “Radioactive.”
Nancy Grace Should Be Removed From Television . . . NOW
After watching the video below, I’m officially petitioning for Nancy Grace to be thrown off television. As an attorney, it’s deplorable that she so easily dismisses judicial injustice and leaps to an assumption of guilt, when our country is founded on a presumption of innocence. Yes, Brendan Dassey was convicted, but that does not make him guilty. Furthermore, if he is in fact guilty, does that make evidence-planting and coerced confessions without the presence of a parent or attorney okay? Because if it does, then the life of every innocent person is officially in jeopardy, because no one is safe. Dassey’s own attorney positioned his client against his own interest by intentionally being absent during his interrogation, and though his attorney was removed from the case as a result, his confession remained intact. As for Grace and Wahlberg stupidly arguing over “who is the victim,” it’s completely irrelevant. Perhaps we should remove trials altogether and just incarcerate people on a hunch? Everyone deserves a fair trial, and if you watched ‘Making a Murderer’ and feel both parties got one, then please never be on a jury.
Queen and Bowie’s Isolated “Under Pressure” Vocal Track — LISTEN NOW
How do singers sound sans auto-tune? Well, if you’re Freddie Mercury and David Bowie, the answer is pretty damn good. With their isolated vocal track gaining traction, you can listen for yourself to “Under Pressure,” a 1981 song originally recorded by Bowie and Queen. It would later make it to Queen’s 1982 album, ‘Hot Space.’ Sources reveal that the riveting song was created in Switzerland during an improvisational, 24-hour jam session, with is evidenced by much of the scat singing. Listen to the magic moment below.
Tabloid Gossip: Your Week of Links
The Golden Globes red carpet looks are in. E! Online
Caitlyn Jenner cancelled her speaking tour. Wet Paint
Nick Jonas and Kate Hudson can’t get enough of each other. ICYDK
Iggy Azalea’s fiance doesn’t like wedding planning. Just Jared
Zayn Malik talked about One Direction. Billboard
‘The Cosby Show’s’ Keshia Knight Pullam is engaged. Contact Music
Lamar Odom made his first appearance outside the hospital. Stuff
Sacha Baron Cohen and Isla Fisher gave $1 million to Syrian refugees. Mtv
Brittany Snow has a new man. E! Online
Jeremy Renner’s divorced is finalized. Yahoo!
Steve-O is dating Kat Von D. TMZ
‘Glee’s’ Mark Salling was arrested on child pornography charges. The Inquistr
Ryan Phillippe is engaged. People
Sean Penn and Madonna might have reignited their romance. NYDN
MTV’s The Challenge Documents Abram and Cara Maria’s Disturbing Romance
If you watch MTV, then you know about The Challenge, and if you know about The Challenge, then you’re well aware of the bizarre relationship between two of its main staples, Cara Maria Sorbello and Abram Boise. On the most recent episode, viewers were given a disturbing lens into what seems like an abusive relationship. Though Abram never gets physical with Cara Maria, his outbursts are shocking, and she’s clearly afraid of him. Cara Maria cheated on Abram during the course of this season’s show, and she later admitted that she hoped the cameras filming her indiscretion would cause Abram to dump her, since she can’t get out of the relationship on her own. He predictably did not dump her; however, and instead exhibited uncontrollable rage during a taping of the After Show. When the host asked the man with whom she cheated what “he saw in Cara Maria,” Cara Maria responded with, “Do you want him to die?” While the audience laughed, I did not. I found the entire thing reprehensible, and I feel sorry for all parties involved, including Abram, who needs help. Watch the clip below for a glimpse at this sad, troubling event.
Leonardo DiCaprio’s Engine Exploded on an Airplane: WATCH NOW
You know what happens when your interview subject refuses to discuss his personal life in public? You actually get interesting questions from an interviewer that’s forced to think outside the traditional box we often see on daytime talk shows. When Leonardo DiCaprio visited Ellen DeGeneres to discuss his new film, ‘The Revenant,’ he revealed two extremely disturbing stories about near-death experiences. Watch below to see him discuss his parachute not opening and the engine on his plane exploding.
Taylor Swift Performs Acoustic Version of “Wildest Dreams” – WATCH NOW
Steven Avery Filmmakers and Lawyers Speaks Out: What Now
If you were addicted to Netflix’s ‘Making a Murderer’ like the rest of America, then you’re likely after more answers as to Steven Avery’s case, and any remaining legal options he might have. Megyn Kelly spoken with attorneys from both sides and the prosecutor is just as gross as he was during trial (if not grosser). Though Kelly asked key questions, Avery’s innocence is actually irrelevant. There were outrageous ethical and legal violations in his trial, which barred him from his fundamental right to a fair trial as a citizen of this country. Watch the videos below. The second video is an interview with the creators of the documentary.
Celine Dion Covers Adele’s “Hello”
Simon Cowell used to advise his ‘American Idol’ contestants to avoid covers of powerhouse performers because unless a singer is capable of contending with the original, he or she will always be compared. So what happens when one powerhouse performer with the right pipes actually covers another? Watch below to see Celine Dion cover Adele’s “Hello,” which will bring you the first shot at a serious singing match-up. While Dion obviously lacks Adele’s emotional attachment to the performance, it’s extremely interesting to compare the two.
Catalina Island: Your Getaway Guide
Care to live a luxurious life on par with Hollywood’s elite A-listers? Angelinos in need of a little rest and relaxation during their next long weekend away are in luck, because Catalina’s peaceful ambiance, pristine waters, secluded coves and can’t-miss activities are are hop, skip, and boat ride away via the Catalina Express.
Catalina’s enchanting charm has attracted Tinseltown for decades, serving as the backdrop for classic films that include The Ten Commandments and Ben Hur, for example, along with actors simply in need of a serene escape, such as Charlie Chaplin, James Cagney, John Wayne, Clark Gable, and more. And let’s not forget Marilyn Monroe, who spent some time on the island with then-husband James Dougherty just before she rose to fame.
When you venture off for your island getaway, there’s an easy number of options and accommodations. Just 22 miles off the Los Angeles coast, the short sailing experience will begin with Catalina Express’ luxury service, which ferries over one million passengers annually in just under one hour. And if you’d like to live like a celebrity and upgrade your experience, the high-speed vessels feature a Commodore Lounge on the upper deck, with leather-trimmed seats, overhead storage, priority boarding, and a beverage and snack service that houses a must-have Bloody Mary. They also graciously offer a free ride on your birthday, which will save you nearly $76 that can later be used for many other on-island activities, such as a Segway ride (a personal favorite), golf carting, zip lining, a behind-the-scenes casino tour, an inside look at the beautiful botanical gardens, and a window into the sea on board a glass-bottomed boat.
When you arrive in Avalon, continue to channel the island’s charm with your choice of the perfect stay, which can be found at the Catalina Island Inn. The beautiful, nautical-inspired decor, approachable staff, and contemporary outdoor balcony provide an elite experience with a boutique feel. The Inn also generously offers flat screen televisions, an iPod dock, mini-fridges, fireplaces, and a private patio, but since it overlooks Avalon Bay and is situated in the center of the action, you’ll likely find yourself easily entering and exiting during your daily excursions. Be sure to grab some complimentary coffee and breakfast muffins in the lobby before you start your day, but save some room for a yummy meal at The Lobster Trap. If you’re like me and you’d like a more private vacation with far less foot traffic, book your stay during the off-season and save some money using the Best of Winter Package. There’s no time like the present, and the Catalina Island Inn is the perfect way to pamper yourself.
Catalina Express
