This is Day 116 of the SAG-AFTRA strike.
SAG-AFTRA picket lines in New York City on Monday doubled as vigils, with striking actors waiting for their union’s leaders to weigh in on the “last, best, and final offer” package that the studios and streamers delivered Saturday.
“We were handed 500 pages,” SAG-AFTRA strike captain Sue Berch said Monday in her traditional stemwinder of a closing speech for morning pickets outside Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery offices in Manhattan. “So [negotiators] are going through it to make sure they keep track of everything that’s in there. Trust them.”
“‘Last, best, and final,’ my ass!” one picketer shouted, prompting whoops and cheers. Berch agreed, saying, “It isn’t final ’til we say it’s final.”
Zachary Quinto, F. Murray Abraham, Jill Hennessy, Erika Longo, Lori Hammel, Mike Doyle, Quincy Tyler Bernstine, Nick Sakai and Michael Cyril Creighton were among the actors...
SAG-AFTRA picket lines in New York City on Monday doubled as vigils, with striking actors waiting for their union’s leaders to weigh in on the “last, best, and final offer” package that the studios and streamers delivered Saturday.
“We were handed 500 pages,” SAG-AFTRA strike captain Sue Berch said Monday in her traditional stemwinder of a closing speech for morning pickets outside Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery offices in Manhattan. “So [negotiators] are going through it to make sure they keep track of everything that’s in there. Trust them.”
“‘Last, best, and final,’ my ass!” one picketer shouted, prompting whoops and cheers. Berch agreed, saying, “It isn’t final ’til we say it’s final.”
Zachary Quinto, F. Murray Abraham, Jill Hennessy, Erika Longo, Lori Hammel, Mike Doyle, Quincy Tyler Bernstine, Nick Sakai and Michael Cyril Creighton were among the actors...
- 11/6/2023
- by Sean Piccoli
- Deadline Film + TV
This is Day 143 of the WGA strike and Day 70 of the SAG-AFTRA strike.
Writers picketing ABC’s The View on Thursday in New York City reacted guardedly to news that negotiations between their striking union and the production studios were continuing for a second consecutive day this week.
They cited an earlier effort at restarting contract talks that quickly broke off and led to more public sparring between the Writers Guild and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
“You can’t ever guess too much because every time it seems like the tone is different, it’s like, ‘all right, nothing happened,’” writer, actor and comedian Larry Wilmore told Deadline outside the ABC television studio complex in Manhattan where The View has continued production despite the guild designating the daytime talk mainstay as a struck show.
Rumors were circulating Wednesday night that the strike could be over as soon as today,...
Writers picketing ABC’s The View on Thursday in New York City reacted guardedly to news that negotiations between their striking union and the production studios were continuing for a second consecutive day this week.
They cited an earlier effort at restarting contract talks that quickly broke off and led to more public sparring between the Writers Guild and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
“You can’t ever guess too much because every time it seems like the tone is different, it’s like, ‘all right, nothing happened,’” writer, actor and comedian Larry Wilmore told Deadline outside the ABC television studio complex in Manhattan where The View has continued production despite the guild designating the daytime talk mainstay as a struck show.
Rumors were circulating Wednesday night that the strike could be over as soon as today,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Erik Pedersen and Sean Piccoli
- Deadline Film + TV
The actors’ and writers’ strikes have left countless people out of work for months as the two unions, SAG-AFTRA and the WGA, fight with the studios for better working conditions for their members. The strikes have also pushed the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards (originally set for Sept. 18) to January, stalled TV and film productions, and delayed the return of late-night talk shows indefinitely. With so many in the entertainment world out of work, actors and talk show hosts have found ways to raise money through the Entertainment Community Fund, the SAG-AFTRA relief fund,...
- 9/19/2023
- by Kalia Richardson
- Rollingstone.com
This is Day 114 of the WGA strike and Day 41 of the SAG-AFTRA strike.
Writers on a picket line in New York City on Wednesday said they were disappointed by the potential collapse of contract talks with film and television producers but determined to carry on with the strike.
“The producers are being quite dramatic, and I think what’s going to happen, sadly, is the talks are going to break down,” said Bill Scheft, who received multiple Emmy nominations for writing during his 24 years with David Letterman’s late-night shows and served as a WGA shop steward there.
Scheft, who also belongs to SAG-AFTRA, was marching Wednesday morning outside Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery offices in Manhattan at a SAG-AFTRA Young Performers Picket attended by about 100 people. Many woke up to the news that negotiations on the West Coast seemingly had imploded overnight, with the AMPTP leaking its August 11 offer...
Writers on a picket line in New York City on Wednesday said they were disappointed by the potential collapse of contract talks with film and television producers but determined to carry on with the strike.
“The producers are being quite dramatic, and I think what’s going to happen, sadly, is the talks are going to break down,” said Bill Scheft, who received multiple Emmy nominations for writing during his 24 years with David Letterman’s late-night shows and served as a WGA shop steward there.
Scheft, who also belongs to SAG-AFTRA, was marching Wednesday morning outside Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery offices in Manhattan at a SAG-AFTRA Young Performers Picket attended by about 100 people. Many woke up to the news that negotiations on the West Coast seemingly had imploded overnight, with the AMPTP leaking its August 11 offer...
- 8/23/2023
- by Sean Piccoli
- Deadline Film + TV
Richard Belzer, a comedian and actor best known for playing Detective John Munch in several NBC crime dramas, including Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Homicide: Life on the Street, has died at the age of 78.
According to his manager Eric Gardner, Belzer died early on Sunday, February 19, at his home in France.
Bill Scheft, a writer and longtime friend of Belzer, said that he had “lots of health issues.”
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died In 2022
He made his film debut in the comedic satire The Groove Tube (1974) alongside Chevy Chase. The film contained skits that featured social commentary on television shows of the 70s.
He also served as the warm-up comedian for Saturday Night Live and made three guest appearances on the show in the late 70s.
As John Munch, Belzer played one of the most memorable cops in TV history. He first appeared on NBC’s...
According to his manager Eric Gardner, Belzer died early on Sunday, February 19, at his home in France.
Bill Scheft, a writer and longtime friend of Belzer, said that he had “lots of health issues.”
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died In 2022
He made his film debut in the comedic satire The Groove Tube (1974) alongside Chevy Chase. The film contained skits that featured social commentary on television shows of the 70s.
He also served as the warm-up comedian for Saturday Night Live and made three guest appearances on the show in the late 70s.
As John Munch, Belzer played one of the most memorable cops in TV history. He first appeared on NBC’s...
- 2/20/2023
- by Alex Nguyen
- Uinterview
Richard Belzer, the longtime star of NBC’s Law & Order franchise has died at the age of 78, according to his friends and former colleagues.
Belzer died at his home in Bozouls in southwest France on Sunday, writer Bill Scheft, a friend of the actor and veteran comedian, told The Hollywood Reporter.
“He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F**k you, motherf***er,’” he told the news outlet.
Belzer played the role of John Munch for 23 years on Homicide: Life on the Streets and Law & Order, starting in 1993. The Connecticut-born comedian retired from acting in 2016 and the age of 71.
Universal Television and NBC issued a joint statement on Sunday offering condolences.
“Anyone who ever had the pleasure of watching Richard Belzer portray Det. John Munch — whether on ‘Homicide’ or ‘Law & Order: Svu’ – over four decades will never forget how much he inhabited that beloved...
Belzer died at his home in Bozouls in southwest France on Sunday, writer Bill Scheft, a friend of the actor and veteran comedian, told The Hollywood Reporter.
“He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F**k you, motherf***er,’” he told the news outlet.
Belzer played the role of John Munch for 23 years on Homicide: Life on the Streets and Law & Order, starting in 1993. The Connecticut-born comedian retired from acting in 2016 and the age of 71.
Universal Television and NBC issued a joint statement on Sunday offering condolences.
“Anyone who ever had the pleasure of watching Richard Belzer portray Det. John Munch — whether on ‘Homicide’ or ‘Law & Order: Svu’ – over four decades will never forget how much he inhabited that beloved...
- 2/20/2023
- by Graeme Massie
- The Independent - TV
Richard Belzer, best known for playing John Munch on Homicide: Life on the Street and Law & Order: Svu, died at the age of 78. Here’s a look at Belzer’s net worth and career.
Richard Belzer’s death Richard Belzer | John Lamparski/WireImage
Belzer reportedly died in southwest France. His friend, writer Bill Scheft, says the actor was in poor health. “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F*** you, motherf*****,’” Scheft tells The Hollywood Reporter. According to the Associated Press, Belzer had “circulatory and respiratory issues.”
Richard Belzer’s net worth Related
What Was Raquel Welch’s Net Worth at the Time of Her Death?
At the time of his death, Belzer had an estimated net worth of 16 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Some of Belzer’s wealth came from his work as an author. He wrote many books focused on conspiracies surrounding the assassination of John F. Kennedy.
Richard Belzer’s death Richard Belzer | John Lamparski/WireImage
Belzer reportedly died in southwest France. His friend, writer Bill Scheft, says the actor was in poor health. “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F*** you, motherf*****,’” Scheft tells The Hollywood Reporter. According to the Associated Press, Belzer had “circulatory and respiratory issues.”
Richard Belzer’s net worth Related
What Was Raquel Welch’s Net Worth at the Time of Her Death?
At the time of his death, Belzer had an estimated net worth of 16 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Some of Belzer’s wealth came from his work as an author. He wrote many books focused on conspiracies surrounding the assassination of John F. Kennedy.
- 2/20/2023
- by Sheiresa Ngo
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
NBC’s Law & Order: Svu fans are devastated to hear that Richard Belzer died on Feb. 19, 2023. The stand-up comic-turned-actor had several notable roles, and he’ll certainly be missed. Richard Belzer’s wife, Harlee McBride, survives him. Here’s more about McBride, his two other marriages, and whether he had kids.
‘Law & Order: Svu’ star Richard Belzer had 3 wives in his lifetime Richard Belzer and wife Harlee McBride | Mario Ruiz/Getty Images
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Richard Belzer died in his home in Southwest France. “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F*** you, motherf***er,’” his longtime friend, writer Bill Scheft, said. Belzer was 78 at the time of his death.
“Richard Belzer’s Detective John Munch is one of television’s iconic characters,” Law & Order creator Wolf told Variety. “I first worked with Richard on the Law & Order/Homicide crossover and loved the character so much,...
‘Law & Order: Svu’ star Richard Belzer had 3 wives in his lifetime Richard Belzer and wife Harlee McBride | Mario Ruiz/Getty Images
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Richard Belzer died in his home in Southwest France. “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F*** you, motherf***er,’” his longtime friend, writer Bill Scheft, said. Belzer was 78 at the time of his death.
“Richard Belzer’s Detective John Munch is one of television’s iconic characters,” Law & Order creator Wolf told Variety. “I first worked with Richard on the Law & Order/Homicide crossover and loved the character so much,...
- 2/20/2023
- by Lauren Weiler
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Richard Belzer’s “Law & Order: Svu” co-stars are paying tribute to the late actor and comedian following his death Sunday. Belzer, who famously played Detective John Munch on the long-running series, died early Sunday at his home in Bozouls in southwest France. He was 78. A cause of death for the actor is not yet known.
Former “Late Show with David Letterman writer Bill Scheft confirmed Belzer’s death to The Hollywood Reporter. “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F**k you, motherf***er,'” Scheft told THR.
Following the news, Mariska Hargitay, Christopher Meloni and Ice-t all took to social media to remember their longtime colleague and friend.
“Goodbye my dear, dear friend. I will miss you, your unique light, and your singular take on this strange world.” Hargitay, 59, wrote on Instagram. “I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you,...
Former “Late Show with David Letterman writer Bill Scheft confirmed Belzer’s death to The Hollywood Reporter. “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F**k you, motherf***er,'” Scheft told THR.
Following the news, Mariska Hargitay, Christopher Meloni and Ice-t all took to social media to remember their longtime colleague and friend.
“Goodbye my dear, dear friend. I will miss you, your unique light, and your singular take on this strange world.” Hargitay, 59, wrote on Instagram. “I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you,...
- 2/19/2023
- by Sarah Curran
- ET Canada
Stars from "Law & Order: Svu" and beyond are paying tribute to Richard Belzer after the actor died at the age of 78 at his home in France on Feb. 19. The actor's friend writer Bill Scheft, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter. "He had lots of health issues, and his last words were 'F*ck you, motherf*cker,'" Scheft said of the actor and comedian.
Belzer played Detective Munch on "Svu" from 1999 to 2016, but the character was much bigger than just one series. He originated the role on "Homicide: Life on the Street" in 1993 before continuing to play the sardonic detective on "Svu" after "Homicide" came to an end. Additionally, he made guest appearances as Munch on an additional eight shows including "The X-Files" and "30 Rock." Given how prolific his career was, it's no surprise the actor was beloved.
Since his death was announced, his costars have been...
Belzer played Detective Munch on "Svu" from 1999 to 2016, but the character was much bigger than just one series. He originated the role on "Homicide: Life on the Street" in 1993 before continuing to play the sardonic detective on "Svu" after "Homicide" came to an end. Additionally, he made guest appearances as Munch on an additional eight shows including "The X-Files" and "30 Rock." Given how prolific his career was, it's no surprise the actor was beloved.
Since his death was announced, his costars have been...
- 2/19/2023
- by Sabienna Bowman
- Popsugar.com
Mariska Hargitay, Ice-t, Christopher Meloni, Laraine Newman and Billy Crystal were among the Hollywood notables paying tribute to Richard Belzer, longtime Law & Order: Svu star and beloved comedian, who died at the age of 78.
Belzer, who writer and longtime friend Bill Scheft confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter had died Sunday at his home in Bozouls in southwest France, was facing health issues.
The performer was known as a legend on the stage and screen, making his movie debut in 1974’s The Groove Tube and warming up audiences in Saturday Night Live‘s early days. A regular detective on the small screen, Belzer’s Homicide character, the recognizable John Munch, first appeared in 1993 on the series’ first episode and made his final appearance in 2016 on Law & Order: Svu. He would appear on the long-running Dick Wolf Law & Order spinoff for nearly 15 years, with Munch retiring from the NYPD in...
Belzer, who writer and longtime friend Bill Scheft confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter had died Sunday at his home in Bozouls in southwest France, was facing health issues.
The performer was known as a legend on the stage and screen, making his movie debut in 1974’s The Groove Tube and warming up audiences in Saturday Night Live‘s early days. A regular detective on the small screen, Belzer’s Homicide character, the recognizable John Munch, first appeared in 1993 on the series’ first episode and made his final appearance in 2016 on Law & Order: Svu. He would appear on the long-running Dick Wolf Law & Order spinoff for nearly 15 years, with Munch retiring from the NYPD in...
- 2/19/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sad news out of the TV world today as it has been revealed that iconic actor and comedian Richard Belzer has died.
He was 78.
Belzer passed away Sunday at his home in southwest France, his longtime friend Bill Scheft shared with The Hollywood Reporter.
“He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F--k you, motherf--ker,’” Scheft told the aforementioned outlet.
Belzer had several big roles throughout his time in the spotlight, including John Munch on Homicide: Life on the Street and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
“Richard Belzer was the first actor to welcome me when I started at Svu,” executive producer Warren Leight tweeted on Sunday.
“Open, warm, acerbic, whip smart, surprisingly kind. I loved writing for Munch, and I loved being with Belz."
"We sensed this would be his parting scene. Godspeed Belz.”
NBC and Universal Television shared the following statement:
“Anyone who ever had...
He was 78.
Belzer passed away Sunday at his home in southwest France, his longtime friend Bill Scheft shared with The Hollywood Reporter.
“He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F--k you, motherf--ker,’” Scheft told the aforementioned outlet.
Belzer had several big roles throughout his time in the spotlight, including John Munch on Homicide: Life on the Street and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
“Richard Belzer was the first actor to welcome me when I started at Svu,” executive producer Warren Leight tweeted on Sunday.
“Open, warm, acerbic, whip smart, surprisingly kind. I loved writing for Munch, and I loved being with Belz."
"We sensed this would be his parting scene. Godspeed Belz.”
NBC and Universal Television shared the following statement:
“Anyone who ever had...
- 2/19/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
The comedy world has paid tribute to actor and stand-up comedian Richard Belzer after his death at the age of 78.
Belzer died at his home in Bozouls in southwest France on Sunday, writer Bill Scheft, a friend of the actor and veteran comedian told The Hollywood Reporter.
“He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F**k you, motherf***er,’” he told the Hollywood news outlet.
Belzer played the role of John Munch for 23 years on Homicide: Life on the Streets and Law & Order, starting in 1993. The Connecticut-born comedian retired from acting in 2016 and the age of 71.
Belzer’s Svu co-star Mariska Hargitay, said on Instagram, “Goodbye my dear, dear friend. I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you, side by side, for so many years.”
And she added: “How lucky the angels are to have you. I can hear them laughing already.
Belzer died at his home in Bozouls in southwest France on Sunday, writer Bill Scheft, a friend of the actor and veteran comedian told The Hollywood Reporter.
“He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F**k you, motherf***er,’” he told the Hollywood news outlet.
Belzer played the role of John Munch for 23 years on Homicide: Life on the Streets and Law & Order, starting in 1993. The Connecticut-born comedian retired from acting in 2016 and the age of 71.
Belzer’s Svu co-star Mariska Hargitay, said on Instagram, “Goodbye my dear, dear friend. I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you, side by side, for so many years.”
And she added: “How lucky the angels are to have you. I can hear them laughing already.
- 2/19/2023
- by Graeme Massie
- The Independent - TV
Prolific actor Richard Belzer, who was best known for his role as Detective John Munch on "Homicide: Life on the Street" and "Law & Order: Svu" (among other shows), has died at the age of 78, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed. The actor's longtime friend writer Bill Scheft told the outlet Belzer died Sunday at his home in Bozouls in southwest France. "He had lots of health issues, and his last words were 'F*ck you, motherf*cker,'" Scheft said.
The sad news was first shared by the actor's friend and fellow actor Laraine Newman on Twitter. "I'm so sad to hear of Richard Belzer's passing. I loved this guy so much. He was one of my first friends when I got to New York to do SNL. We used to go out to dinner every week at Sheepshead Bay for lobster. One of the funniest people ever. A master at crowd work.
The sad news was first shared by the actor's friend and fellow actor Laraine Newman on Twitter. "I'm so sad to hear of Richard Belzer's passing. I loved this guy so much. He was one of my first friends when I got to New York to do SNL. We used to go out to dinner every week at Sheepshead Bay for lobster. One of the funniest people ever. A master at crowd work.
- 2/19/2023
- by Sabienna Bowman
- Popsugar.com
The comedy world and Law & Order: Svu veterans both turned to social media Sunday to pay tribute to Richard Belzer, the legendary comedian-turned-beloved television detective who starred as John Munch for over 20 years.
Marisky Hargitay wrote on Instagram, “Goodbye my dear, dear friend. I will miss you, your unique light, and your singular take on this strange world. I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you, side by side, for so many years. How luck the angels are to have you. I can hear them laughing already.
Marisky Hargitay wrote on Instagram, “Goodbye my dear, dear friend. I will miss you, your unique light, and your singular take on this strange world. I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you, side by side, for so many years. How luck the angels are to have you. I can hear them laughing already.
- 2/19/2023
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
Richard Belzer, the quick-witted stand-up comedian who became one of the most beloved detectives on television, has died at the age of 78.
Belzer’s death was confirmed to the Hollywood Reporter by his longtime friend Bill Scheft. “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘Fuck you, motherfucker,'” Scheft said, adding that Belzer died Sunday morning at his home in southwest France, where the actor moved to after his tenure on Law & Order: Svu.
Decades before putting his detective skills to work on primetime,...
Belzer’s death was confirmed to the Hollywood Reporter by his longtime friend Bill Scheft. “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘Fuck you, motherfucker,'” Scheft said, adding that Belzer died Sunday morning at his home in southwest France, where the actor moved to after his tenure on Law & Order: Svu.
Decades before putting his detective skills to work on primetime,...
- 2/19/2023
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
The Law & Order universe lost one of its brightest stars: Richard Belzer, who played John Munch on Homicide: Life on the Street, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and many other shows, has reportedly died at age 78. Belzer died on Sunday, February 19 in his Bozouls home in the southwest of France, due to undisclosed health issues. Writer Bill Scheft, longtime friend of the actor, told The Hollywood Reporter, “He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F**k you, motherf***er.'” Comedian and podcast host Marc Maron (a friend of Belzer’s) was one of the celebrities grieving for Belzer on Twitter on Sunday. “Richard Belzer died,” Maron tweeted. “He was an original. One of the greats, babe. I loved the guy. Rip.” Eric Liebowitz/NBC/Everett Collection Former Svu showrunner Warren Leight also tweeted about the star’s reported passing. “Richard Belzer was the first actor...
- 2/19/2023
- TV Insider
‘Fourth of July’ Review: Louis C.K.’s Home-for-the-Holiday Comedy Sidesteps His Scandal. Or Does It?
“Fourth of July” is a movie directed by Louis C.K., and in its light-spirited and unimportant way it comes at the audience as a kind of moral curveball. Starting less than a year after Nov. 2017, when five women came forward to describe inappropriate conduct by Louis C.K., including instances in which he masturbated in front of them (accusations he did not deny), the comedian, actor, screenwriter, and director has been working to revive his career, kicking off his attempted rehabilitation with an appearance at the Comedy Cellar in New York on Aug. 26, 2018. The arena of stand-up comedy, with its personal and confessional dimensions, presents an obvious way for someone like Louis C.K. to advertise himself, in the wake of his #MeToo downfall, as an entertainer who is still viable. (He won a Grammy for his 2020 comedy album “Sincerely Louis C.K.”) In that sense, all he needs is...
- 6/30/2022
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
When Louis C.K. attempted to restart his career after his sexual misconduct scandal, he did it gingerly by performing unannounced sets in small comedy clubs. He’s essentially doing the same thing with his return to filmmaking. This low-budget indie dramedy being released in a smattering of movie theaters (as of now, it’s not scheduled to be screened by any of the larger chains) reveals the controversial comic working in an uncharacteristically muted fashion. Lacking the acerbic edge of his brilliant work on the sitcom Louie and web series Horace and Pete, Fourth of July turns out to be something we would have never expected from its director/co-writer — bland.
Partly this seems because he’s working in collaboration with comedian Joe List, who co-wrote the screenplay, executive produced and stars in the lead role of Jeff, a recovering alcoholic and anxiety-ridden jazz pianist.
When Louis C.K. attempted to restart his career after his sexual misconduct scandal, he did it gingerly by performing unannounced sets in small comedy clubs. He’s essentially doing the same thing with his return to filmmaking. This low-budget indie dramedy being released in a smattering of movie theaters (as of now, it’s not scheduled to be screened by any of the larger chains) reveals the controversial comic working in an uncharacteristically muted fashion. Lacking the acerbic edge of his brilliant work on the sitcom Louie and web series Horace and Pete, Fourth of July turns out to be something we would have never expected from its director/co-writer — bland.
Partly this seems because he’s working in collaboration with comedian Joe List, who co-wrote the screenplay, executive produced and stars in the lead role of Jeff, a recovering alcoholic and anxiety-ridden jazz pianist.
- 6/30/2022
- by Frank Scheck
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Alan Kalter, the “voice” of CBS’ “Late Show With David Letterman” for most of its run, has died, Variety has confirmed. He was 78.
According to Rabbi Joshua Hammerman of Temple Beth El in Stamford, Conn., Kalter died at Stamford Hospital, with wife Peggy and his daughters Lauren Hass and Diana Binger at his side.
Kalter took over as Letterman’s announcer on Sept. 5, 1995, replacing Bill Wendell, who had retired. Kalter remained with “Late Show” until Letterman ended his tenure in May 2015.
Although the gig centered on announcing the guests at the top of each show and other various introduction elements, Kalter soon became a pivotal part of “Late Show,” often in scripted segments in which he satirically flew off the handle and stormed off stage; played himself as deviant and creepy; and often being the butt of jokes.
“When our announcer of 15 years Bill Wendell retired, producer Robert Morton came...
According to Rabbi Joshua Hammerman of Temple Beth El in Stamford, Conn., Kalter died at Stamford Hospital, with wife Peggy and his daughters Lauren Hass and Diana Binger at his side.
Kalter took over as Letterman’s announcer on Sept. 5, 1995, replacing Bill Wendell, who had retired. Kalter remained with “Late Show” until Letterman ended his tenure in May 2015.
Although the gig centered on announcing the guests at the top of each show and other various introduction elements, Kalter soon became a pivotal part of “Late Show,” often in scripted segments in which he satirically flew off the handle and stormed off stage; played himself as deviant and creepy; and often being the butt of jokes.
“When our announcer of 15 years Bill Wendell retired, producer Robert Morton came...
- 10/5/2021
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Alan Kalter, who served as announcer on CBS’ Late Show With David Letterman for two decades, has died at the age of 78, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He passed away Monday in a Connecticut hospital, his wife Peggy confirms.
Kalter succeeded Letterman’s original announcer Bill Wendell, who departed The Late Show in 1995. On screen, Kalter frequently played a heightened version of himself, appearing in a myriad of segments, often as a sexual deviant. He also hosted show-within-a-show Alan Kalter’s Celebrity Interview. He remained a fixture on The Late Show through Letterman’s retirement in 2015.
More from TVLineGhosts Review:...
Kalter succeeded Letterman’s original announcer Bill Wendell, who departed The Late Show in 1995. On screen, Kalter frequently played a heightened version of himself, appearing in a myriad of segments, often as a sexual deviant. He also hosted show-within-a-show Alan Kalter’s Celebrity Interview. He remained a fixture on The Late Show through Letterman’s retirement in 2015.
More from TVLineGhosts Review:...
- 10/5/2021
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
Tony Mendez, a cue card handler who became a popular member of David Letterman’s onscreen gang of real-life characters, died July 29 at his Miami Beach home. He was 76.
His death was confirmed by former companion Andrew Corbin to The New York Times. A cause was not disclosed.
Mendez, born in Havana, Cuba, was among the Late Show With David Letterman staffers who became regular onscreen presences and even stars in their own right, a roster that also included stage manager Biff Henderson, announcer Alan Kalter and assistant Stephanie Birkitt.
During his 21-year Late Show tenure in the role Letterman dubbed “cue card boy,” Mendez even hosted a popular series of online videos, called The Tony Mendez Show, for the Late Show website. Mendez had occasionally handled cue cards for Letterman during the earlier NBC Late Night With David Letterman era, taking over the role full-time when the host moved...
His death was confirmed by former companion Andrew Corbin to The New York Times. A cause was not disclosed.
Mendez, born in Havana, Cuba, was among the Late Show With David Letterman staffers who became regular onscreen presences and even stars in their own right, a roster that also included stage manager Biff Henderson, announcer Alan Kalter and assistant Stephanie Birkitt.
During his 21-year Late Show tenure in the role Letterman dubbed “cue card boy,” Mendez even hosted a popular series of online videos, called The Tony Mendez Show, for the Late Show website. Mendez had occasionally handled cue cards for Letterman during the earlier NBC Late Night With David Letterman era, taking over the role full-time when the host moved...
- 8/23/2021
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: My Entertainment’s recently launched One Foot Forward division, formed to develop and produce premium, non-scripted content targeting the leading streaming services, has unveiled an impressive list of initial content deals and IP. Partners include Michael Sugar’s Sugar23, Mark Wahlberg’s Unrealistic Ideas, Laurent Bouzereau, original Saturday Night Live writer Alan Zweibel, Jeremiah Crowell, Paul Pawlowski Emmy and Peabody Award-winner Dave Check, and Scout Productions. The division is overseen...
- 4/27/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
David Letterman’s “Late Show” went off the air on May 20, 2015, and since then, all the lip-sync battles and carpool karaokes haven’t quite filled that perfect quota of weird that Letterman once provided.
But as author Scott Ryan argues in his new book “The Last Days of Letterman: The Final 6 Weeks,” Letterman hit a stride of old-fashioned, genuine late night talk that rose to the level of Johnny Carson in his final shows.
“Dave and his guests actually talked to each other. Very few of the guests were appearing on the show to promote their latest movies. They were actually coming on the show to talk to their friend,” Ryan writes in the opening to his book. “This time they brought it back to the days of Jack Paar and Johnny Carson. For six weeks of time, conversation was the true king of late night.”
Also Read: David Letterman...
But as author Scott Ryan argues in his new book “The Last Days of Letterman: The Final 6 Weeks,” Letterman hit a stride of old-fashioned, genuine late night talk that rose to the level of Johnny Carson in his final shows.
“Dave and his guests actually talked to each other. Very few of the guests were appearing on the show to promote their latest movies. They were actually coming on the show to talk to their friend,” Ryan writes in the opening to his book. “This time they brought it back to the days of Jack Paar and Johnny Carson. For six weeks of time, conversation was the true king of late night.”
Also Read: David Letterman...
- 11/1/2018
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Adrianne Tolsch, a pioneering figure among female stand-up comics, a Broadway performer and the wife of former Late Show With David Letterman writer Bill Scheft, died today at her home in New York City. She was 78 and succumbed to esophageal cancer. Scheft broke the news to friends on his Twitter page. Gone to heaven, 5:45 this morning. pic.twitter.com/8mRqkJ0HY1 — Bill Scheft (@billscheft) December 7, 2016 Tolsch was perhaps best known for her association in the…...
- 12/8/2016
- Deadline TV
Deadline founder and former editor-in-chief Nikki Finke is up and running with Hollywood Dementia, a new website devoted to fiction showbiz stories written by Hollywood insiders. She tells me the site gets off the ground today with offerings from Hollywood lawyer Bertram Fields, David Letterman's head writer Bill Scheft, Antonia Bogdanovich (daughter of Peter Bogdanovich and Polly Platt), and TV and feature writers Peter Lefcourt, Cynthia Mort, Jay Abramowitz & Tom Musca…...
- 8/3/2015
- Deadline
The hands-down highlight of David Letterman's final Late Show last week — especially if you're not a huge Foo Fighters fan — was the highly-entertaining, star-studded top ten list of "Things I've Always Wanted to Say To David Letterman." Now, thanks to a lengthy Tumblr post by longtime Late Show writer Bill Scheft, we have learned that numbers two and one were written by intern Caroline Schaper.
- 5/26/2015
- by Matt Wilstein
- Mediaite - TV
Longtime Late Show writer Bill Scheft is giving fans a look inside the most buzzed-about moments from David Letterman's final broadcast via his Tumblr. Scheft, who had written for Letterman since 1991, revealed the celebrity-packed top 10 included two lines written by intern Caroline Schaper after Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Tina Fey opted to try out other jokes during rehearsal. "Julia settled on a line written by Mike Leech ('Thanks for letting me take part in another hugely disappointing series finale….') which the next day was proclaimed the 'winner' of the Top Ten. Tina took something a
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- 5/26/2015
- by THR staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The writers for CBS' Late Show With David Letterman just have a few more months of crafting jokes for the veteran late-night host before he retires in 2015, but they're not dwelling on it. "We're trying not to think about it, which of course is the best way to think about it and it seems like a long way off and it seems like tomorrow," Bill Scheft said during a Paley Center panel with the Late Show writers moderated by Keith Olbermann on Friday night. Watch more David Letterman's 10 Most Memorable 'Late Show' Moments Scheft added at
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- 11/10/2014
- by Hilary Lewis
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tony Mendez, aka ‘Dave’s Cue Card Boy’ from The Late Show With David Letterman, was fired after assaulting show writer Bill Scheft.
David Letterman Cue Card Guy Fired
Mendez has worked as David Letterman’s cue card guy for over two decades and was frequently featured on the show. A fan-favorite, Mendez even had his own web series, where he would take fans behind the scenes of The Late Show, called “The Tony Mendez Show.”
Speaking out after being let go from the late night show, Mendez says that it wasn’t always fun and games off screen. In fact, Mendez frequently fought with Scheft, saying, “Bill is always undermining me – making himself out as Dave’s No. 1, trying to pretend that I wasn’t even in the room…little passive-aggressive things.”
Tony Mendez Roughed Up Writer Bill Scheft
On Wednesday, Oct. 8, Mendez claims Scheft provoked him during a rehearsal,...
David Letterman Cue Card Guy Fired
Mendez has worked as David Letterman’s cue card guy for over two decades and was frequently featured on the show. A fan-favorite, Mendez even had his own web series, where he would take fans behind the scenes of The Late Show, called “The Tony Mendez Show.”
Speaking out after being let go from the late night show, Mendez says that it wasn’t always fun and games off screen. In fact, Mendez frequently fought with Scheft, saying, “Bill is always undermining me – making himself out as Dave’s No. 1, trying to pretend that I wasn’t even in the room…little passive-aggressive things.”
Tony Mendez Roughed Up Writer Bill Scheft
On Wednesday, Oct. 8, Mendez claims Scheft provoked him during a rehearsal,...
- 10/20/2014
- Uinterview
The cue card guy on “Late Show with David Letterman” has lost his job after reportedly assaulting Bill Scheft, an Emmy-nominated writer on the late-night show. “I know I shouldn't have put my hands on him,” the 69-year-old Tony Mendez told the New York Post. “But this has been coming for a long time.” The altercation between Mendez, who has regularly been shown on-air during the broadcasts, and Scheft occurred on Oct. 9 before the show's Thursday taping. But it was set off by a verbal confrontation with Scheft, a 15-time Emmy nominee, a day earlier, Mendez told the Post. See photos: Party.
- 10/19/2014
- by Todd Cunningham
- The Wrap
David Letterman's cue-card guy, Tony Mendez, is out of a job after assaulting staff writer for the show Bill Scheft. Mendez told the New York Post that there had always been tension between the two because Scheft "encroaches" on his work: "Bill was always undermining me — making himself out as Dave’s No. 1... Trying to pretend that I wasn’t even in the room." It all came to a head on October 8, when Mendez told Scheft to "Get off my back." According to Mendez, Letterman said, "Tony, your sour disposition isn’t helping," which prompted him to reply, "You’re the one who has the sour disposition, motherfucker." He says the two had the kind of relationship where they regularly traded barbs.Mendez stewed on the incident all night and believes Scheft was "trying to create a wedge" between him and Letterman. So the next day, he got to...
- 10/19/2014
- by E. Alex Jung
- Vulture
There are probably more than ten reasons why you shouldn't insult your boss and assault your co-worker, as a longtime Late Show With David Letterman staffer has learned. Late Show cue card writer Tony Mendez, known to the show's watchers for his regular on-camera appearances, has been fired from the show after physically confronting staff writer Bill Scheft. The New York Post previously reported the news. On Oct. 8, Mendez was rehearsing with Scheft and David Letterman in the host's dressing room. Mendez didn't appreciate Scheft interrupting him, and so he snapped at Scheft: "I know what I'm
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- 10/19/2014
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A new position may be open at The Late Show. The New York Post reports that David Letterman's cue-card holder Tony Mendez, who often got air-time between jokes, was fired recently after allegedly assaulting a staff writer on set. The incident reportedly took place within the past two weeks when Mendez, 69, got into a verbal altercation with writer Bill Scheft over changes in cue cards. The next day, Mendez grabbed the 15-time Emmy winner's shirt and pushed him against a wall. Mendez has previously worked on Saturday [...]...
- 10/19/2014
- Us Weekly
Letterman’s longtime cue-card guy fired for assaulting a “Late Show” writer Tony Mendez — who's also host of “The Late Show’s” web series “The Tony Mendez Show” was terminated last week after getting into argument with writer Bill Scheft. “I know I shouldn’t have put my hands on him,” the 69-year-old Mendez tells the NY Post. “But this has been coming for a long time.” Report: An autopsy was never performed on Joan Rivers Melissa Rivers requested that an autopsy not be performed, and that means we’ll never learn what exactly killed Rivers, according to TMZ. Mindy Kaling and Matt Damon are starring in a Super Bowl commercial together The pairing is notable because Kaling once starred in a stage show called “Matt & Ben” about Damon and Ben Affleck’s friendship, where she played Affleck. No word on what product they were filming their commercial for. “Glee...
- 10/19/2014
- by Norman Weiss
- Hitfix
David Letterman's famous cue card guy on "Late Show" was given the boot this week ... after he says he cussed at the famous TV host backstage -- then attacked one of the writers.Tony Mendez says he was given the boot this week over an incident that took place on Thursday ... but the real problem started the day before during a rehearsal for the show -- according to the NY Post.Tony says he's...
- 10/19/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
The Writers Guild of America, West and Writers Guild of America, East today named the members of the negotiating committee who will soon sit down with the Alliance of Motion Picture and TV Producers. With such heavy-hitting scribes as recently re-elected board members Billy Ray and David S. Goyer as well as Damon Lindelof among the group, the committee will serve under Wgaw Exec Director and Chief Negotiator David Young to hammer out a new contract. While the 29-member committee has been set, a date has yet to be announced for the negotiations with AMPTP to actually start. The guilds’ current contract expires May 1. The Directors Guild of America set its own contract talks with the AMPTP to begin early this month on November 4, over six months before their agreement runs out on June 30, 2014. Here are the members who’ll serve on the WGA negotiating committee: Chip Johannessen, Co-Chair Billy Ray,...
- 11/13/2013
- by DOMINIC PATTEN
- Deadline TV
Exclusive: I’ve just learned that one of the longtime writers and producers of Late Show With David Letterman, Matt Roberts, is becoming the new head writer effective immediately. The previous head writers Justin and Eric Stangel will remain as writers and producers with the show but also get a fat new multiyear development deal with Worldwide Pants, the production company run by Letterman and Rob Burnett. ”The Stangel brothers are going to remain with the show as part of the deal because we need them,” Rob Burnett just told me. ”These guys are as good as it gets.” The twosome have had an unusally long and successful 14-year run as Letterman’s head writers and now will turn a lot of their attention to coming up with TV shows in any format for Worldwide Pants. “For people like this super valuable to the show, this deal keeps these guys from walking,...
- 1/18/2013
- by NIKKI FINKE, Editor in Chief
- Deadline TV
Joaquin Phoenix returned to "The Late Show with David Letterman" Wed. night for the first time since his bizarre Feb. 2009 appearance. This time around, Phoenix appeared clean-shaven and sans sunglasses to come clean about the whole thing being part of an elaborate hoax.
The actor, who created the fake persona as part of his faux-documentary "I'm Still Here," apologized to David Letterman for fooling him, hoping he didn't offend him in any way.
This comes after the film's director Casey Affleck finally admitted the documentary, where he followed Joaquin's journey from troubled Oscar-nominated actor to aspiring rapper, was indeed fake.
Letterman also took the opportunity to clear the air about him being in on the hoax. "Was there a script that you and I were working with?" he asked Phoenix, who flatly responded with, "No."
Despite the denial, "Late Show" writer Bill Scheft recently disclosed that Dave was in fact...
The actor, who created the fake persona as part of his faux-documentary "I'm Still Here," apologized to David Letterman for fooling him, hoping he didn't offend him in any way.
This comes after the film's director Casey Affleck finally admitted the documentary, where he followed Joaquin's journey from troubled Oscar-nominated actor to aspiring rapper, was indeed fake.
Letterman also took the opportunity to clear the air about him being in on the hoax. "Was there a script that you and I were working with?" he asked Phoenix, who flatly responded with, "No."
Despite the denial, "Late Show" writer Bill Scheft recently disclosed that Dave was in fact...
- 9/23/2010
- by hecruz24
- Examiner Movies Channel
Casey Affleck has admitted buddy Joaquin Phoenix’s erratic behavior — the beard, the retirement from acting, the promised hip-hop career — was a put-on for his now-released mockumentary I’m Still Here. And now an interview with Late Show with David Letterman writer Bill Scheft, published in Indianapolis’ indie paper Nuvo last year, reveals that Dave was in on the joke when he did the notorious crash-and-burn interview with Phoenix last year, during which the actor stuck his gum under the desk, mumbled answers amid awkward silences, and generally lacked any sense of consciousness or humor. “Think Andy Kaufman without shaving,...
- 9/20/2010
- by Jennifer Armstrong
- EW.com - PopWatch
David Lettermen knew that Joaquin Phoenix's wacked-out appearance on his show was all an act, or at least so says one of his former writers. In a recently unearthed interview, Late Show with David Letterman writer Bill Scheft told Nuvo, an alternative Indianapolis newspaper, that when he told friends that Phoenix's act was a fake, no one believed him. They dismissed his comments on the pretense that Phoenix was just a troubled individual: "I've told people that (everyone was in on the joke), and not only do people not believe me, they tell me that I'm wrong and that (Phoenix) is a...
- 9/20/2010
- by Celebuzz
- Celebuzz.com
David Lettermen knew that Joaquin Phoenix's wacked-out appearance on his show was all an act, or at least so says one of his former writers. In a recently unearthed interview, Late Show with David Letterman writer Bill Scheft told Nuvo, an alternative Indianapolis newspaper, that when he told friends that Phoenix's act was a fake, no one believed him. They dismissed his comments on the pretense that Phoenix was just a troubled individual: "I've told people that (everyone was in on the joke), and not only do people not believe me, they tell me that I'm wrong and that (Phoenix) is a...
- 9/20/2010
- by Celebuzz
- Celebuzz.com
A writer on David Letterman's Late Show has claimed that Joaquin Phoenix’s apparently incoherent appearance on the show last year was an act for the mockumentary I’m Still Here.
The film was confirmed as a fake by director Casey Affleck last Friday when, speaking to the New York Times, he described Phoenix’s act as “the performance of his career” before acknowledging that the interview was part of the act, although Letterman himself was not in on the secret.
However, in an interview for Nuvo carried out last summer, writer Bill Scheft noted how the host was in fact “play[ing] along”.
"He could do whatever he wanted with it. And he did, and it was great television,” he said, before describing how he “saw Ben Affleck’s brother taping the whole thing from offstage.
"I've told people that [everyone was in on the joke], and not only don't people believe me, they tell...
The film was confirmed as a fake by director Casey Affleck last Friday when, speaking to the New York Times, he described Phoenix’s act as “the performance of his career” before acknowledging that the interview was part of the act, although Letterman himself was not in on the secret.
However, in an interview for Nuvo carried out last summer, writer Bill Scheft noted how the host was in fact “play[ing] along”.
"He could do whatever he wanted with it. And he did, and it was great television,” he said, before describing how he “saw Ben Affleck’s brother taping the whole thing from offstage.
"I've told people that [everyone was in on the joke], and not only don't people believe me, they tell...
- 9/20/2010
- by caroline.preece@lovefilm.com (Caroline Preece)
- LOVEFiLM
Casey Affleck has admitted that Joaquin Phoenix's performance in the mockumentary I'm Still Here (2010) — including Phoenix's squirm-inducing appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman (TV) — was fake. But was Letterman in on the joke? "Dave knew about it and Dave loved it because he could play along," Bill Scheft, one of Letterman's writers, said in an interview with Nuvo magazine last year. "I've told people that [everyone was in on the joke], and not only don't people believe me, they tell me that I'm wrong and that [Phoenix] is a schizophrenic and he needs help and he's going to end up like his brother [River]. I said no. I saw the segment notes. It's an act. I saw Ben Affleck's brother taping the whole thing from offstage."...
- 9/20/2010
- by jmaurer@corp.popstar.com (Jennifer Maurer)
- PopStar
Filed under: TV News
After Casey Affleck confirmed to The New York Times last week that his Joaquin Phoenix "documentary" was a hoax, now it's been revealed that David Letterman was in on the whole thing.
'Late Show With David Letterman' writer Bill Scheft admitted on Friday that Phoenix's disastrous February 2009 appearance on the show was all planned, according to The Hollywood Reporter. "Dave knew about it and Dave loved it because he could play along," Scheft said. "It was great television."
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After Casey Affleck confirmed to The New York Times last week that his Joaquin Phoenix "documentary" was a hoax, now it's been revealed that David Letterman was in on the whole thing.
'Late Show With David Letterman' writer Bill Scheft admitted on Friday that Phoenix's disastrous February 2009 appearance on the show was all planned, according to The Hollywood Reporter. "Dave knew about it and Dave loved it because he could play along," Scheft said. "It was great television."
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- 9/20/2010
- by Jean Bentley
- Aol TV.
David Letterman was reportedly aware that Joaquin Phoenix's appearance on his chatshow was all an act for the mock documentary I'm Still Here. The Oscar-nominated actor made an incoherent guest appearance on Letterman's Late Show last year to promote Two Lovers, in which he wore sunglasses, chewed gum and refused to answer the host's questions. However, in an interview conducted last summer for Nuvo, Late Show writer Bill Scheft said that Letterman was part of the hoax, and compared Phoenix's performance on the show to late comic Andy Kaufman. "Dave knew about it and Dave loved it because he could play along," Scheft said. (more)...
- 9/20/2010
- by By Simon Reynolds
- Digital Spy
The facade of I'm Still Here's legitimacy keeps on crumbling. Following an admittance by director Casey Affleck that the "documentary" was staged and Joaquin Phoenix was acting for the whole thing, it has now been revealed that Phoenix's appearance on the Late Show with David Letterman was a put-on, too. The Hollywood Reporter found out through Bill Scheft, one of David Letterman's writers, that Dave was in on the joke. Dave knew about it and Dave loved it because he could play along. It was great television. But I will take credit for the line, 'I think I owe Farrah Fawcett an apology.' That line was mine. I gave that to him during the break. I've told people that [everyone was in on the joke], and not only don't people believe me, they tell me that I'm wrong and that [Phoenix] is a schizophrenic and he needs help and he's going to ...
- 9/18/2010
- by Adam Quigley
- Slash Film
David Letterman was in on the joke.
Despite Casey Affleck claiming nobody knew Joaquin Phoenix was faking his bizarre behavior for "I'm Still Here" (except for his agent), one of Letterman's writers, Bill Scheft, said in an interview last year: "Dave knew about it and Dave loved it because he could play along."
"It was great television," added Scheft to the independent newspaper, Nuvo, in an interview that was dug up Friday in light of Affleck's admission Thursday. "But I will take credit for the line, 'I think I owe Farrah Fawcett an apology.' That line was mine. I gave that to him during the break." (The actress rambled awkwardly during a 1997 appearance.)
Scheft said he was rebuffed when he tried to expose Phoenix. "I've told people that [everyone was in on the joke], and not only don't people believe me, they tell me that I'm wrong and that [Phoenix] is a schizophrenic and he needs...
Despite Casey Affleck claiming nobody knew Joaquin Phoenix was faking his bizarre behavior for "I'm Still Here" (except for his agent), one of Letterman's writers, Bill Scheft, said in an interview last year: "Dave knew about it and Dave loved it because he could play along."
"It was great television," added Scheft to the independent newspaper, Nuvo, in an interview that was dug up Friday in light of Affleck's admission Thursday. "But I will take credit for the line, 'I think I owe Farrah Fawcett an apology.' That line was mine. I gave that to him during the break." (The actress rambled awkwardly during a 1997 appearance.)
Scheft said he was rebuffed when he tried to expose Phoenix. "I've told people that [everyone was in on the joke], and not only don't people believe me, they tell me that I'm wrong and that [Phoenix] is a schizophrenic and he needs...
- 9/17/2010
- by By Lindsay Powers
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Casey Affleck came clean to The New York Times today, admitting that his Joaquin Phoenix-meltdown documentary I'm Still Here was in fact a phony piece of performance art. It seems amusing in hindsight that each time Deadline referred to the film in the past few months as a "mockumentary," distributor Magnolia Pictures and the filmmakers were incensed. But really, this revelation is about as shocking as when WWE head Vince McMahon revealed that the results of professional wrestling bouts were prearranged. More interesting: the Times unearths an interview done that Late Show with David Letterman writer Bill Scheft in Nuvo.com, where he admits that the fix was in on Letterman's famed interview of Phoenix--with Letterman in on the ruse. "That was all an act...Think Andy Kaufman without shaving," Scheft said. "That’s what he was doing. And Dave knew about it and Dave loved it because he could play along.
- 9/17/2010
- by MIKE FLEMING
- Deadline
Our brothers and sisters over at TV Squad have busted through the boob tube and brought with them the following juicy bits of must-see eye candy. Susan Boyle is returning to television -- QVC to be specific -- where she will be appearing on November 4 to promote her CD I Dreamed a Dream. Check out the latest installment of the newly retitled TV Squad Podcast featuring an interview with Late Show writer Bill Scheft. NBC has asked the producers of Heroes to come up with a finale for the show. Check out the trailer for season 8 of 24. The show itself will be premiering on January 17. Syfy has acquired the rights to produce an Americanized version of Being Human, the BBC series about a vampire, a werewolf, and a ghost sharing a house. ...and finally, Jj Abrams' series Fringe may be in danger of being canceled.
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- 10/31/2009
- by Matt Bradshaw
- Cinematical
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