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Showbiz Tonight
Chris Brown Speaks Out; Rihanna`s Father Talks About Her; Octu-Mom`s Publicist Quits; Michael Phelps Out of Hot Water; Lesbian Wedding on TV
Aired February 16, 2009 - 23:00 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
A.J. HAMMER, HOST: Now, on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT - breaking news in the Rihanna drama. Tonight, for the first time, Chris Brown speaks out about his alleged attack on Rihanna. Wait until you hear what he has to say, and doesn`t say.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
ALICIA QUARLES, ASSOCIATED PRESS: You know, this is a kind of a non- apology.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Plus, startling revelations from Rihanna`s father on how she is doing. Will Rihanna now become a domestic violence crusader?
Brand new, octuplet mom outrage. Tonight the dramatic repercussions from the death threats against her. The unbelievable new attempt to take her eight babies away from her. And brand-new controversy over her money issues.
Plus, "Showbiz on Call" - why so many people are fired-up over the octuplet mom`s manicures.
Plus, why Alec Baldwin is publicly thanking Christian Bale for his on- set temper tantrum that was caught on tape.
TV`s most provocative entertainment news show starts right now.
(MUSIC)
Hello. I`m A.J. Hammer, broadcasting tonight and every night from New York City. And in just a moment, the brand-new developments in the octuplet mom outrage.
But first tonight, Chris Brown says he`s sorry - took him a week to say it. But he now says he is sorry after his alleged attack on Rihanna the night before the Grammies. Tonight, the superstar singer is speaking out for the very first time since his arrest.
So is Rihanna`s father, revealing for the first time how she is doing. And what`s more, stars are now saying that Rihanna could become the face of domestic violence and turn into an inspiration for women everywhere.
Tonight, SHOWBIZ TONIGHT with the Rihanna drama making big news right now.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
(voice over): In the weeks since 19-year-old Chris Brown was arrested after allegedly attacking his girlfriend, 20-year-old singing star, Rihanna, everyone has been wondering who would speak up first. The accused attacker? Or the reported victim? Now, we have our answer.
QUARLES: Chris Brownish issued a statement saying he is sorry. His father spoke out saying Chris is sorry. Rihanna`s father spoke out saying Rihanna is going to get through this. We have heard from everyone but Rihanna.
HAMMER: SHOWBIZ TONIGHT can tell you that Chris Brown has now issued a public apology. But, an apology for what? Well, he is not getting into that yet.
QUARLES: Chris Brown never says Rihanna in his apology, never says, "You know what, Rihanna. I`m sorry."
HAMMER: In a statement, released by his spokesman, Brown says, quote, "Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired. I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones, and I am committed, with God`s help, to emerging a better person."
QUARLES: This is a classic celebrity apology.
HAMMER: As Alicia Quarles from the Associated Press points out, the R & B star has all but checked off the crucial points of cookie-cutter, standard celebrity apology. There is the unspecified apology.
QUARLES: He says he is sorry. But all of us were like, "Sorry for what?"
HAMMER: Then you mention mom.
QUARLES: What do you do when you do something bad or get hurt? You turn to your mommy, and that`s what Chris is doing.
HAMMER: And finally, mention God.
QUARLES: Not only does Chris mention his mama, he takes it one step further and mentions his pastor. But he goes above that and mentions God.
HAMMER: Brown also goes on to say, quote, "While I would like to be able to talk about this more, until the legal issues are resolved, this is all I can say."
QUARLES: He didn`t want to admit full-on guilt in this because he does have to go back to court in March. And police are investigating this case. And the district attorney is considering whether or not to charge him.
HAMMER: Not only is Chris Brown speaking up; his dad is, too. Brown`s father, Clinton tells "People" magazine his son is, quote, "very remorseful. He`s very concerned about the situation and he wants to make sure that Rihanna`s OK."
Brown`s dad goes on to say that his son, quote, "will continue to be a good person. He loves people. And like most of us, most humans, things will occur. And hopefully a person won`t be judged simply on that alone."
QUARLES: I think that Chris Brown`s father is probably doing what any father would do in this case.
HAMMER: As for Rihanna, she is not been seen and has said nothing about the night before the Grammies over a week ago when Brown allegedly attacked her after the couple attended a party.
But now, SHOWBIZ TONIGHT can tell you that Rihanna`s dad is doing what his superstar daughter has yet to do -confirm that she was indeed hurt.
QUARLES: This is the dad who is being her spokesperson right now.
HAMMER: About his daughter, Rihanna, Ronald Fenty tells "People" magazine, quote, "There is some bruising. She will be all right. I think so."
And while Fenty says he wouldn`t tell his daughter what to do about his relationship with Chris Brown, dad`s opinion is crystal clear. He tells "People" magazine, quote, "If it were me, I would move on." He adds, quote, "At some point, she will speak out. I hope she will stand up for women all over the world."
And now that Chris Brown and just about everyone else is breaking the silence about this sad incident, there is little doubt that someday, Rihanna will, too.
QUARLES: I think Rihanna will speak out at some point. I have interviewed Rihanna. I know she is a strong person. She will probably use this as a platform.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: So even though Chris Brown has spoken out, it really has led to a whole new batch of questions including does all this mean he is ready to cut a deal? And why the heck did he wait over a week to say he was sorry?
Joining me tonight in New York, is Marvet Britto, who`s a celebrity publicist and founder of the Britto Agency. Also in New York, Ben Widdicombe, who`s the celebrity editor of "StyleList.com."
And I want to throw that to you first, Ben. Why do you think Chris waited so darn long to say "I`m sorry"? Because it seems to me he really should have gotten in front of the story a little better.
BEN WIDDICOMBE, CELEBRITY EDITOR, "STYLELIST.COM": Well, why wait so long and why deliver such a tepid apology? You know, it really does seem as if there is something he is not saying here. He is either going to have to apologize and be more sincere and more specific, i.e. apologize to Rihanna. Or he`s going to have to come out with new information.
And what people around this case are saying is that the other shoe hasn`t dropped yet, and probably anticipating his criminal defense. I think we`re expecting counter-allegations here.
HAMMER: This does not help his case at all in my mind, because if you look at what has transpired in the weeks since this first came to light, this guy, Chris Brown has been ripped to shreds in the public eye. Marvet, what do you think? Too little, too late with the statement?
MARVET BRITTO, FOUNDER, THE BRITTO AGENCY: I think so. I think that this happened on the eve of one of the biggest nights in music. And they certainly could have come out and apologized straight away. They didn`t do that.
Neither did - he didn`t and Rihanna didn`t. At this point he is apologizing, but he`s not apologizing for - what? It is very, very loose. And he has suffered a lot of damage mainly because he has been convicted in the court of public opinion which is the hardest to rebound from.
HAMMER: Yes.
BRITTO: So at this point we really need to hear from Chris. Rihanna is a victim, so it`s OK, either way allegedly, for her to take some time away. But we really do need to hear more from him.
HAMMER: Yes. The alleged victim in the case, Rihanna. Yes, as you said, Chris Brown apologizing saying he is sorry. He also said he is sad about what happened. But I have to point out again, he never mentioned what happened. And he never mentioned his girlfriend Rihanna`s name.
And he did make sure to point out that he wouldn`t be going into any more details. I want to read this from his statement. He said, quote, "While I would look to be able to talk about this more, until the legal issues are resolved, this is all I can say."
Ben, you`re sensing that Chris Brown might be trying to pave the way here to - I don`t know - cop a plea? It sure seems that way to me.
WIDDICOMBE: Well, I think the watchword in the Brown camp right now is damage control. As Marvet said, he has been convicted by the court of public opinion. It`s clear that he`s in some trouble with the law. So whatever he is doing now, he has to - he needs an exit strategy from the problem he is in. So I think yes, it`s damage control and he`s looking after himself for criminal charges.
HAMMER: And now that he has spoken out, we really heard from everybody except for Rihanna in this case. And I find this fascinating that Rihanna`s father spoke out and told "People" magazine that he saw his daughter in Barbados where she is recovering with girl friends and that she is quote, "bruised."
"Bruised" is a pretty strong word given that nothing has yet has been confirmed. Marvet, what do you think he was trying to do here? Perhaps to get on the record to say, "You know, something bad did happen and it did happen to her."
BRITTO: I am not sure what he`s trying to do. But either way, we need to hear from Rihanna. Only two people were in that car on the alleged night of the mishap. And those are the two people that the public wants to hear from.
Last I read, Rihanna wasn`t that close to her father to begin with. So, we don`t know what he knows. And nor should we continue to speculate or make assumptions. We need to hear from Rihanna.
HAMMER: Yes, I would be among those who would say, in her own time. You know, maybe, I don`t see the need for her to do any damage control personally. But it`s interesting to hear everybody speaking out.
And the fact that Chris Brown`s father started talking before Chris even released a statement. Listen to what Chris Brown`s father told "People," quote, "He is very concerned about the situation and wants to make sure that Rihanna is OK. This is unfortunate - this stumble, this situation. Hopefully, he will get past it. We all have our shortcomings. We all trip."
Again, granted - you know, Chris Brown has not talked specifically about what happened. Ben, let`s be realistic here. A lot of people are going to hear what Chris Brown`s father has said as a virtual confession. You know, he is saying, "Yes, something bad happened and it involved Rihanna." I mean, that is the implication of that direct quote from his dad.
WIDDICOMBE: It certainly is a tacit acknowledgement that something happened. And we live in an age where, for high-profile celebrity cases like this, the PR team and the legal team have to be on the same page.
I`ll be very surprise if Chris` dad were not cleared to make that statement. If he weren`t cleared and if he made it on his own - at his own behest, I think it could cause his case serious damage.
HAMMER: All right. Marvet, brass tacks here. Because this is what you do for a living. You`ve certainly managed some of the biggest stars in the world through some major crises. You`ve already said Chris Brown`s statement - too little, too late.
So what do you tell him to do right now? He is your client. You are working for him. Do you have him release a statement somehow? Do you immediately put him on a talk show saying, "Say what you can say within your legal limits"? I mean, what do you do to dig yourself out of this hole?
BRITTO: Chris Brown, within legal limits, needs to speak. And we need to hear from him and we need to see him. We need for him to be remorseful. But we do need to hear within, again, his legal limits, exactly what transpired.
We still don`t know. He is apologizing, but he`s not really apologizing or accepting responsibility for the act that he is being accused of. And he is - he has a lot to lose right now.
HAMMER: Yes.
BRITTO: Rihanna is the victim and he`s you know, the person who everyone is pointing the finger at. We need to really - he needs to clear that up.
HAMMER: Marvet, I appreciate that. Marvet Britto, Ben Widdicombe, thank you both.
All right. We want to hear from you. Here`s our SHOWBIZ TONIGHT question of the day - "Chris Brown`s Apology: Is it enough?" Let us know what you think - CNN.com/ShowbizTonight. You can also E-mail showbiztonight@cnn.com.
Coming up, brand-new outrage over the octuplet mom. Tonight, the dramatic repercussions from the death threats against her and the unbelievable new attempt to take her eight babies away from her.
And more controversy over her money issues. You`re fired up phone calls in the "Showbiz on Call" over the octuplet mom`s manicures. That`s coming up.
We also have this -
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I think it really is important to understand that there are a lot of things that people really don`t want to see and don`t want coming into their home. And lesbian weddings are certainly one of them.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: A lesbian wedding that is rocking the TV world. You don`t want to miss that.
Plus, why Alec Baldwin is publicly thanking Christian Bale for his on- set tirade caught on tape. This is SHOWBIZ TONIGHT on HLN.
Now, the "SHOWBIZ News Ticker" - more stories from the SHOWBIZ TONIGHT newsroom making news right now.
(CAPTION READS: President Obama to honor Stevie Wonder with Library of Congress Award. "Friday the 13th" has largest ever debut for a horror film. "Friday the 13th" took in $42.4 million in its opening weekend.)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
ALEC BALDWIN, ACTOR: I want to take a moment to say, thank you, Christian Bale. You replaced me as the person most synonymous with recorded celebrity meltdowns. Thank you, Christian.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Did you see this? Alec Baldwin on "Saturday Night Live" thanking Christian Bale for eclipsing his own caught-on-tape rant to his daughter.
Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. "SNL" and Alec Baldwin certainly aren`t the only ones having a little fun at the expense of the Christian Bale`s caught-on-tape rant, which, of course, was against the crew member on the set of the new "Terminator" movie. Did you see this? Take a look at what "Family Guy" did with the tape.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: All right. Look, I will be honest with you. My father-in-law has treated me like crap for almost 20 years. And it`s time for a little pay back. I`ll tell you, he`s treated me worse than that jerk Christian Bale did.
CHRISTIAN BALE, ACTOR: I want you off the (EXPLETIVE DELETED) set, you (EXPLETIVE DELETED).
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Sorry.
BALE: No, don`t just be sorry, think for (EXPLETIVE DELETED) second.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I dropped a peanut M & M and it rolled over here.
BALE: Am I going to walk around and rip your (EXPLETIVE DELETED) lights down in a middle of a scene?
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Those are Christmas lights. I put them up to make everyone happy.
BALE: Then why the (EXPLETIVE DELETED) are you walking right through, ah tada-tada like this in the background. What the (EXPLETIVE DELETED) is it with you?
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Well, you are going to owe a fortune to the swear jar.
BALE: You got any idea about hey, it`s (EXPLETIVE DELETED) distracting having somebody walking up behind Bryce in the middle of the (EXPLETIVE DELETED) scene. Give me a (EXPLETIVE DELETED) answer.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I don`t get it.
BALE: What don`t you get about it?
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I don`t get why we need another "Terminator." I don`t get it. Oh, and by the way, sorry, I ate that last piece of pie that you were saving for yourself.
BALE: Oh, good for you. And how was it?
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: It was good.
BALE: I hope it was (EXPLETIVE DELETED) good because it`s useless now, isn`t it?
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Well, it`s nourishing me, so that`s useful.
BALE: (EXPLETIVE DELETED) man, you are amateur.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I don`t know that word.
BALE: Stay off the (EXPLETIVE DELETED) set, man. All right. Let`s go again.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Can we just take a minute.
BALE: Let`s not take a (EXPLETIVE DELETED) minute. Let`s go again.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I got to go pee and I want to walk around some more, but I want to do it with a lot of scenes going.
BALE: You are unbelievable, man.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I just don`t understand -
BALE: You don`t (EXPLETIVE DELETED) understand what it`s like working with actors. That`s what that is.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I don`t think that`s what it is.
BALE: That`s what that is, man, and I`m telling you.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: My family is coming to town. Do you mind pretending I`m the director.
BALE: I`m going to (EXPLETIVE DELETED) kick your (EXPLETIVE DELETED) if you don`t shut up for a second.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Please don`t hurt me. Please don`t hurt me, Mr. Bale.
BALE: You want me to go (EXPLETIVE DELETED) trash your lights.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: No.
BALE: Do you want me to (EXPLETIVE DELETED) trash them?
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: No, I don`t want you to trash them.
BALE: You do it one more (EXPLETIVE DELETED) time, and I`m not walking on the set if you are still hired.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Sorry, it`s my first day.
BALE: I`m (EXPLETIVE DELETED) serious. You are a nice guy. You`re a nice guy.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I don`t feel like a nice guy.
BALE: But I don`t (EXPLETIVE DELETED) cut it when you (EXPLETIVE DELETED) around like this on set.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: You (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
BALE: Seriously, man. You and me we are (EXPLETIVE DELETED) done professionally.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Wait. Just professionally? Are you asking me out on a date?
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Of course, that was the actual audio from Bale`s rant. He has since apologized. But I guess the one bright spot in this whole ordeal is "Family Guy" got a pretty funny bit out of it.
All right. Moving on now, tonight, outrage over the octuplet mom. More than one person has commented that the octuplet mom may be trying to look like Angelina Jolie.
So we asked you what you thought - "Octuplet Mom: Does she look like Angelina Jolie?" Most of you don`t think so - 42 percent of you said yes, so 58 percent said no.
I`ve got to tell you, the "Showbiz on Call" phone lines have been ringing incessantly. The "Showbiz on Call" switchboard operators working their fingers to the bone. There`s Faith right there working hard at this.
We`ve got a call on "Showbiz on Call" I`ve got to play to you from Marika who`s calling in from New York. And like a lot of other people, Marika takes issue with the fact that the octuplet mom doesn`t have any money but seems to be spending a whole lot on manicures.
(BEGIN AUDIO CLIP)
MARIKA, CALLER FROM NEW YORK: I think the octuplet mom, should take responsibility for her own actions and consider giving those precious little ones up for adoption. I would look to know, for how many years does she expect to continue to receive donations from the public? And for someone who is really struggling, that lady has really beautiful nails.
(END AUDIO CLIP)
HAMMER: Yes, really. Thank you, Marika, for your call. We also heard from Patricia who called in to "Showbiz on Call" from Ohio.
(BEGIN AUDIO CLIP)
PATRICIA, CALLER FROM OHIO: I think, at best, she doesn`t have a firm grip on reality. At worst, she is full-blown crazy delusional. And while I would love to help those poor children, I`m concerned about the mom`s use of the money. I`m not paying for her to continue to get French-tip manicures, lip injections or plastic surgery. I think she is not capable of caring for those eight babies. They should be given to eight sane childless couples who will shower them with attention and loving care.
(END AUDIO CLIP)
HAMMER: Thank you, Patricia. Listen to this call from Desiree calling in to "Showbiz on Call" from Utah.
(BEGIN AUDIO CLIP)
DESIREE, CALLER FROM UTAH: I think Child Protective Services should take those babies away, and probably the other six, too. Because she is just interested in herself.
She is just doing it for the money. It looks like she has had work done on her face. And I just noticed her nails were manicured. And I`m wondering who was paying for all of that.
And those darling little babies should go to a good home to a family who really wants to love a child who maybe can`t have their own.
(END AUDIO CLIP)
HAMMER: Thanks a lot, Desiree. Call us at "Showbiz on Call" to let us know what you think about this or anything else. The "Showbiz on Call" phone lines always open at 1-888-SBT-BUZZ. Leave us a voicemail. We will play your calls right here on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. And your calls to "Showbiz on Call" on our homepage, CNN.com/ShowbizTonight.
Coming up, much more to talk about, brand-new outrage over the octuplet mom. Tonight, the death threats against her and the attempt to take her eight babies away. And more controversy over all those money issues. That`s coming your way.
Also the Rihanna drama. We are asking how will Rihanna cope with the aftermath of Chris Brown`s alleged attack. How will she deal with this painful situation? And will she become a crusader against domestic violence?
And will Michael Phelps be charged with a crime in his caught-on-film, pot smoking scandal? The sheriff makes a decision. This is SHOWBIZ TONIGHT on HLN.
And now, the "SHOWBIZ News Ticker" - more stories from the SHOWBIZ TONIGHT newsroom making news right now.
(CAPTION READS: Britney Spears shopping memoir to publishers. Duane "Dog" Chapman reportedly owes more than $2 million in unpaid taxes.)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Tonight, fallout from the Michael Phelps pot scandal. The sheriff has decided whether they`ll file any criminal charges. As you probably remember, the Olympic champion has been swimming in scandal ever since a tabloid published a photo of him smoking marijuana from a bong at a party in South Carolina.
Well, the sheriff there had threatened to charge Phelps with a crime. But today, he said there will be no charges.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
LEON LOTT, SHERIFF, RICHLAND COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA: Having thoroughly investigated this matter, we do not believe we have enough evidence to prosecute anyone that was present at the November party.
Michael Phelps and I agree that something positive needs to come from this incident. And that is a message of not using drugs. He can speak on this issue from his perspective. My perspective is that law pertains to everyone and our drug laws are to be enforced.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: And there you have it. Phelps has released a statement saying he`s glad the matter has been put to rest. I`m sure he is.
Well, the Oscars are less than a week away. And now, Hollywood is buzzing with anticipation. SHOWBIZ TONIGHT there at the annual Oscar luncheon where the nominees get together. And we got to hear what the stars are thinking leading up to the big night. Take a look.
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KATE WINSLET, ACTRESS, NOMINATED FOR "THE READER": It has been such an amazing year, you know. There have been such extraordinary performances by men and women. I really feel like that across the board. Just to be a part of this global film community in this particular year with this nomination at this time in my life feels really special.
FRANK LANGELLA, ACTOR, NOMINATED FOR "FROST/NIXON": I don`t think there will be much of a change in my career. This is a wonderful high point. But it is a high point, not the high point. And I have been at it for over four decades.
And the privilege of being nominated for an Oscar is really extraordinary. But I don`t really think that suddenly I am going to turn into one of those actors, you know, who makes millions and millions of dollars and stars in films holding a gun like that.
ROBERT DOWNEY, JR., ACTOR, NOMINATED FOR "TROPIC THUNDER": What I think is endearing about Kirk Lazarus and Lincoln Osiris in "Tropic Thunder" is that there is no way I could have read the script and said, "It`s Oscar time." I was just hoping I wasn`t, you know, shot at the premiere.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: It is my responsibility and pleasure to remind you that you have to tune in to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT on Oscar night for "Hollywood`s Gold Rush." We`re right there at the Oscars with all the big stars, all the big stories and of course the big surprises.
"Hollywood`s Gold Rush," live this Sunday, at 11:00 p.m. Eastern right here on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
Now, the showbiz lineup. Here is what is coming up at the bottom of the hour on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
Rihanna`s drama. How will she cope with Chris Brown`s alleged attack? Will Rihanna become a crusader against dough mystic violence?
New octuplet mom outrage. The death threats against her and the unbelievable attempt to take her eight babies away from her.
And the lesbian wedding that is rocking the TV world. Why a lesbian wedding is causing such a big controversy.
Now, the "SHOWBIZ News Ticker" - more stories from the SHOWBIZ TONIGHT newsroom making news right now.
(CAPTION READS: David Beckham reportedly may not return to L.A. Galaxy to play soccer. Scarlett Johansson is in talks to replace Emily Blunt in "Iron Man 2.")
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Now on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT, brand-new octu-mom outrage. Tonight, the shocking new attempt to take her eight babies away from her. Plus, new fallout from the death threats she has been getting. And more of your fired-up calls into our "Showbiz on Call" phone lines.
Rihanna`s pain. Tonight, Rihanna`s father and Hollywood`s biggest stars are speaking out after the alleged attack on her by Chris Brown. What is next for her? Will Rihanna now become the new face in the fight against domestic violence?
Plus, more stories breaking from the "SHOWBIZ News Ticker." TV`s most provocative entertainment news show continues right now.
(MUSIC)
Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. It`s 30 minutes past the hour. I`m A.J. Hammer, broadcasting tonight and every night from New York City.
And tonight, a new night of almost unbelievable brand-new developments and outrage over the octuplet mother. Tonight, the octu-mom`s publicist quits. She says she can`t take the terrifying and fierce death threats against her. And we have got her emotional terrified parting words.
Also new tonight, a California psychiatrist`s explosive charge that the octu-mom`s eight children should be adopted by someone else immediately. We have got her 24 reasons why she says the octu-mom is an unfit mother.
Octu-mom`s mother is now speaking out revealing new details about what she calls her daughter`s secretive pregnancy.
And that`s not all. You have got to hear all of the all-out furious phone calls that have been blowing up our "Showbiz on Call" phone lines. SHOWBIZ TONIGHT viewers are fired up, so are our coast-to-coast guests.
Joining me tonight in New York, Jane Velez-Mitchell who`s the host of "Issues with Jane Velez-Mitchell" - it`s seen weekday nights, 7:00 p.m. right here on HLN - that`s Eastern time. In Hollywood tonight, Carlos Diaz, who is a correspondent for "Extra."
Guys let`s get right into this. Now, former octu-publicist, Joann Killeen - now, she`s the woman who went to bat for the octu-mom. She went on several national TV shows. And new right now, the publicist says, "I quit. I am done."
She said the death threats got to be way too much. Listen to her exact quote. She said, "They put me in the wood chipper and throw me in the bottom of the ocean and hope I die. We`ve gotten her through the worst part of it. Now, they are putting their venom and anger toward us."
That has got to be the quote of the week. Jane Velez-Mitchell, just go.
JANE VELEZ-MITCHELL, HOST, "ISSUES WITH JANE VELEZ-MITCHELL": Well, I think that the hate has totally the gotten out of hand, A.J. If you have ever gotten any of these death threats, they are scary even if perhaps the people sending them don`t really mean to carry them out. They are terrifying.
You walk out of the house and you think, "Oh, my gosh. What is going to happen next?" And I actually blame the media. For decades we have been mindless cheerleaders for big families.
Every time there is a sextuplet, we do these glowing knee jerk stories about the miracle of earth, never examining serious issues like the cost, the medical ramifications, the environmental ramifications.
And now, here is a woman who has sort of taken this to the logical extreme. And what do we do? We demonize and we attack her. The media needs to look in the mirror. And the next time a septuplet happens, the local news stations all around the country shouldn`t be doing these mindless, fantastic, glowing profiles that encourage people like this and then, lead us in the situation that we are in now.
HAMMER: I guarantee you, Jane, after this situation, it is never going to happen again. People will examine everything - the finances, the psychological well-being of the mother. I mean, we have seen what happened here. I guarantee you, it won`t be a repeat situation.
Now, last week, on "Dr. Phil," this publicist who now has quit said that she and the octu-mom were forced to flee to, you know, a safe house, a secure location until the death threats died down.
And when she talking about it, she sounded downright scared. Watch this.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
JOANN KILLEEN, NADYA SULEMAN`S PUBLICIST: Unfortunately, people are upset that I`m representing Nadya. And they have called all my clients. They have called and said, "You know, this woman is a charlatan. She`s an ambulance chaser. How could you possibly have her represent you?"
And they said that if there are any products or goods or services that my clients have, they`re going to boycott. The death threats are real. I have to take this very seriously.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Yes. And this publicist, of course, was working pro bono. She was working for the octu-mom for free. Carlos, off to you. Have you ever heard of a person being so hated that their publicist was threatened, too?
CARLOS DIAZ, CORRESPONDENT, "EXTRA": Well, the publicist at "Extra" catches a heck of a lot of crap because of me. But other than that, I really can`t say that.
HAMMER: I understand.
DIAZ: Of course. Of course. But here`s the thing, though. What I - and Jane made a great point. I mean, you know, the publicist that took this, as you said, pro bono - she took this because she has seen so many cases in the past where, you know, you have these sextuplet or octuplet stories on the news and they`re done with such care. It`s a feel-good story. So she took this, not knowing what she was in store for.
HAMMER: Yes.
DIAZ: So I mean, she couldn`t have known that she was going to be getting death threats like she was.
HAMMER: Yes. She may have gotten in over her head and went in with the best of intentions perhaps.
DIAZ: Right.
HAMMER: Have to get to this because also making news right now, a very vocal psychologist has lodged a formal complaint against octu-mom with California Department of Child Protective Services.
Now, listen to this. She has listed an unbelievable 24 reasons why she says the octu-mom is an unfit mother. And she says, those eight newborn babies - they should be adopted right out of the hospital in her complaint.
I want to read what Dr. Carol Lieberman says, quote, "Animals have litters. They don`t exert conscious control over the number of babies they have. It is not psychologically nor physically possible to provide sufficient love and attention to the litter that Ms. Suleman has chosen to deliver."
Jane? Does that sound extreme to you, or has the octu-mom proven, based on all that we know, that she really is an unfit mother?
VELEZ MITCHELL: Well, I think a good argument could be made that she is an unfit mother. You know, A.J., I spoke to a nurse in a neonatal unit. And she said people forget that each one of these tiny human beings is an individual with individual needs, individual personality, individual proclivities.
And nobody, not any one human being, can take care of 14 kids, eight of people who are newborns and six of whom already are here, but three of whom have disabilities. So even if she was perfectly well-balanced, it would be impossible.
But beyond that, she has proven herself to be a manipulator and liar. She lied about welfare. She lied about Angelina Jolie. And she lied about a number of things. The list gets longer and longer. So yes, the argument can be made that she is an unfit mother.
HAMMER: Well, it`s amazing. Everybody is talking about this. Everybody has an opinion. And our "Showbiz on Call" phone lines are in virtual meltdown with fired-up phone calls coming in.
I want to play one from Jan in Illinois with her take on the octu-mom. Listen to this.
(BEGIN AUDIO CLIP)
JAN, CALLER FROM ILLINOIS: I think that the mother of the 14 children needs counseling and compassion, not condemnation and death threats. The whole family needs help. But the babies need all the love and care that loving people can give them.
(END AUDIO CLIP)
HAMMER: Yes. So what do you think, Carlos. Does Jan have of a point that maybe octu-mom does need to give her newborns up for adoption so they can get the proper love and care they deserve?
DIAZ: I mean, you know, it`s going to be tough for her as we all know. Fourteen children are a lot; 14 kids basically at one time even worse. And I would say there has got to be some kind of supervised care here.
As Jane pointed out, I mean, these are each individuals. You can`t look at them as a litter. You need to look at them as being individual babies. So yes, I support - if not adoption at least having, you know, some kind of supervision come in.
HAMMER: No question about it. They should be at the center of everybody`s focus moving forward. Also new tonight, an explosive new interview with the mother of octu-mom. Now, she has just revealed to the CBS "EARLY SHOW" that her own daughter actually kept her octu-mega pregnancy a secret from her. Listen to this.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Did she tell you before she went to get this last round of in-vitro that she wanted to get pregnant again?
ANGELA SULEMAN, MOTHER OF NADYA SULEMAN: She didn`t tell me because she knew I didn`t want her to do it.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: So she went and did it unbeknownst to you. Did she tell you when it was successful?
A. SULEMAN: Well, when I saw that it was successful, she admitted to it.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: So it`s not until she was visibly pregnant that she told you?
A. SULEMAN: Yes. Yes.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: All right. Jane, 10 seconds here. Does it surprise you that this was kept a secret from the octu-mom`s mother?
VELEZ MITCHELL: Absolutely not because the parents went to the doctor and begged him not to do it according to published reports. So obviously, she is hell-bent on doing this. She did it. And guess who`s going to have to take care of them? Octu-grandma.
HAMMER: And the outrage will continue for sure. Carlos Diaz, Jane Velez- Mitchell, thanks. And do not forget, please watch Jane on "Issues with Jane Velez-Mitchell," weeknights, 7:00 p.m. Eastern right here on HLN.
Well, tonight, Rihanna`s pain. As Chris Brown finally speaks out for the first time, Rihanna`s father opens up about the alleged attack on his daughter by Brown. So what is next for Rihanna?
Also, brand-new emotional words from Hollywood`s biggest stars for Rihanna. A lot of people are wondering - will she become the new face of the fight against domestic violence? I`ve got that next.
And also this.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I think it really is important to understand that there are a lot of things that people really don`t want to see and don`t want coming into their home. And lesbian weddings are certainly one of them.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Wow. New controversy over a lesbian wedding on TV. It`s taking place on one of the longest-running shows of all time and it is rocking the TV world. People are really fired-up about this.
Also, "Hollywood`s Gold Rush." We are less than a week away from the Oscars. And tonight, nominee Kate Winslet is revealing how she felt about her husband, "Revolutionary Road" director Sam Mendes, bossing her around at the office. This is SHOWBIZ TONIGHT on HLN.
Now, the "SHOWBIZ News Ticker" - more stories from the SHOWBIZ TONIGHT newsroom making news right now.
(CAPTION READS: TMZ: Lil` Wayne sued by concert promoter for $1.3 million for canceling three concerts. Salma Hayek marries French businessman Francois-Henri Pinault in Paris.)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Now, on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT, brand-new developments in the Chris Brown-Rihanna drama. A week after the alleged attack on Rihanna, Chris Brown apologizes saying he is, quote, "sorry and saddened."
Tonight, Rihanna`s father speaks out for the very first time, saying she is bruised but all right and will speak out at some point.
And Jay-Z, who is Rihanna`s mentor, calls for compassion for Rihanna saying, quote, "Just imagine it being your sister or mom."
Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Tonight, Rihanna`s pain. As the superstar recovers from the alleged attack by Chris Brown the night before the Grammy Awards, SHOWBIZ TONIGHT can now reveal there is talk that Rihanna could become a crusader for domestic violence.
Rihanna`s own father and some of the biggest stars in Hollywood are now speaking out about what is next for Rihanna and where and what she should do to help millions of women.
With me in New York tonight is Marvet Britto. She is a celebrity publicist and the founder of the Britto Agency. Also in New York, it`s Cooper Lawrence, who is a psychology expert, syndicated radio host and author of this fine and fabulous new book, "The Cult of Celebrity."
I want to begin with Rihanna`s dad tonight. He`s the very first person to say publicly that he saw his daughter with bruises. I want to read what Ronald Fenty told "People" magazine, quote, "There is some bruising. She will be all right. At some point, she will speak out. I hope she will stand up for women all over the world."
Stand up for women all over the world. Cooper, what do you think? Rihanna, who has said nothing so far - has she already turned into a symbol of domestic violence in America?
COOPER LAWRENCE, PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT: She has because we put her there, because she is somebody who is a celebrity, who is well known, and she is a good example of somebody who does represent abuse, because one out of four women in this country do get abused - African-Americans more than Caucasians. Plus, African-Americans are more likely to have suicide attempts afterwards.
So it does start the conversation. But we have sort of thrown her into that role, whereas she really needs to heal right now. There`s a lot of post-traumatic stress. There`s a lot of depression. There`s a lot that comes from an incident like this that she needs to heal and get through. So we can`t put her in that role just yet.
HAMMER: But as you say, it`s bringing up the conversation and these amazing statistics which I just find staggering and important that people know all about.
Now, Jay-Z is the guy who gave Rihanna her record deal. And he is also speaking out for the first time about this alleged attack by Chris Brown.
Here is what Jay-Z is saying, quote, "This is a real situation. Just imagine it being your sister or mom. And then think how we should talk about that. I just think we should all support her. She is going through a tough time."
She obviously, Marvet, is beloved by fans, young women, older women, men, all over the world. Does Rihanna now have somewhat of a responsibility, especially, with all of her young female fans to become a crusader against domestic violence?
BRITTO: I don`t think Rihanna has the responsibility. I think that Chris has the responsibility. He is the alleged abuser. And he is the one who - if this all shakes out and it ends up being true, he is the one who need the help. So, she needs to heal, and he needs to make this a part of his redemption plan if he indeed abused Rihanna.
HAMMER: Yes. Well said. That is a terrific idea. And let`s hope that follows through as this thing continues to unfold.
Now Rihanna is also obviously on the minds of some of Hollywood`s biggest stars. Rosario Dawson, Ann Hathaway, Jessica Alba, were all among the women at a star-studded event in Hollywood to bring attention to violence against women. And what happened to Rihanna was naturally being talked about.
Listen to what Jessica Alba said, quote, "When things happen publicly, it just makes it a more universal problem that more people can relate to."
So Cooper, really, as you were saying, that`s what`s going on here. Millions of people are just relating to Rihanna`s situation right now.
LAWRENCE: Absolutely. And the thing that we have to bring to light here is that when somebody goes through something like this, there are three main things that need to happen. One is to surround yourself with friends and family who make you feel positive.
The second is to have people around you, remind you that you did nothing wrong. You didn`t cause this. And the third is to take time to heal and find the right resources to get through this to realize that you didn`t cause this and this was of no fault of your own.
HAMMER: You know, a lot of people are wondering what Rihanna should be doing next, being somebody who is so in the public eye and so beloved. Because at this point, it seems like we have heard from everybody except Rihanna.
So Marvet, if you were representing Rihanna as her publicist, what would you advise her to do, perhaps make a statement now, something about domestic violence, even if, perhaps, she is not going to become a crusader and then continue to heal privately or really just say nothing?
BRITTO: I think Rihanna has millions and millions of fans. And they want to hear from her. They want to know that she is OK. They`re concerned. They`re concerned about her well-being.
So I think she should address them. She should let them know that she is OK. She should, you know, really thank them for their support. And then she should continue to heal in private until she is ready to rebound.
But Rihanna`s resilient. So I am sure that she will get by. She will get through this. She will get through it by the support of her fans, the same fans who have supported her thus far.
HAMMER: Cooper, real quickly, only about 15 seconds here. Could speaking out publicly and being a crusader like this actually help her with recovery and perhaps closure?
LAWRENCE: Yes, much later on down the road, when she has come to the conclusion she is healed. But yes, it`s very important for celebrities to speak out where politicians cannot.
HAMMER: All right. I appreciate your insight tonight. Cooper Lawrence, Marvet Britto, thank you both.
And we have been asking you to vote on our SHOWBIZ TONIGHT question of the day - "Chris Brown`s Apology: Is it enough?" Keep voting at CNN.com/ShowbizTonight. You can also E-mail us at showbiztonight@cnn.com.
It is time now for "Hollywood`s Gold Rush." Of course, the Oscars less than a week away already. Tonight, we`ve got nominees, Marisa Tomei and Kate Winslet revealing some amazing things you have not heard before.
Now, Kate is up for best actress for "The Reader." But she also won a Golden Globe in the very same category for "Revolutionary Road," and that was directed by her husband Sam Mendes.
Well, on CNN`s "LARRY KING LIVE," Kate opens up about what it was like to work with her husband.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
WINSLET: There were a couple of moments, you know, when I would say to him, "You can`t - why are you standing right by the camera when you`re shooting close-up on me?" He said, "Because I always like to do that when any actor is doing a close-up." I said, "Well, you can`t be there. You have to go into another room right now. It`s just too weird."
And it would make me feel very sort of watched and judged. And but on the whole, we really had a good time. Yes, we really did.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Well, Larry also chatted with Marisa Tomei. Now, Marisa is up for best supporting actress as a stripper in Mickey Rourke`s "The Wrestler." Wow, was she great in that role! Larry asked Marisa how she felt about doing those nude scenes.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
LARRY KING, HOST, "LARRY KING LIVE": Did you have any qualms about, for want of a better term, baring yourself?
MARISA TOMEI, ACTRESS: I did have qualms. I did.
KING: You have a fantastic body.
TOMEI: Thank you.
KING: You do.
TOMEI: I had a lot of hesitation. And I hemmed and hawed, and I just - on a lot of levels on just going through that for myself. And just being - putting myself out there in a way that I wanted to.
Obviously, I want to keep working and I want to do meaty parts. And I didn`t know how that would figure into once - the impact it would have on people, because it could have been negative. It could have really gone the other way. And I wasn`t sure -
KING: In retrospect, I guess you`re happy.
TOMEI: In retrospect, everything is beautiful.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: I think it`s beautiful. Well, you know what else is beautiful? SHOWBIZ TONIGHT will be the only entertainment news show live at the Oscars. It`s "Hollywood`s Gold Rush," SHOWBIZ TONIGHT live this Sunday, 11:00 p.m. Eastern, right here on HLN.
Well, tonight, a brand-new wedding that is just rocking the TV world.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: It`s reality. And so when we see a lesbian couple getting married on daytime drama, it simply reflects what is happening in the real world.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: That`s right. It`s a lesbian wedding, and I`ve got to tell you, it is creating a whole lot of controversy on one of the most popular shows of all time. That is coming up next. This is SHOWBIZ TONIGHT on HLN.
Now the "SHOWBIZ News Ticker" - more stories from the SHOWBIZ TONIGHT newsroom making news right now.
(CAPTION READS: Singer MIA reveals on MySpace that she`s given birth to a baby boy. New Sarah Palin biography hits shelves Tuesday, reveals "secret" pregnancy.)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. And tonight, a gay love controversy on TV. Yes, there is new outrage over a lesbian wedding on one of the longest running shows of all-time, "All My Children." And it involves the daughter of one of the most popular soap characters of all-time.
Here`s CNN`s "AMERICAN MORNING" entertainment correspondent Lola Ogunnaike for SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Dearly beloved, welcome Erica, Jackson -
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I will.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I will.
LOLA OGUNNAIKE, CNN ENTERTAINMENT CORRESPONDENT (voice over): Weddings are a dime a dozen in the world of soap operas. Luke and Laura, Erica Kane and more men than you can count on two hands. But a lesbian wedding? Now that`s a first.
EDEN RIEGEL, ACTRESS: When my character did first come out of the closet, there was a lot of negative reaction. People were very protective of Erica Kane`s daughter, and I think that the beauty of the show was that we were able to reach people and get people sort of used to the idea.
SUSAN LUCCI, ACTRESS: Once Bianca came out and said she was gay, Erica said but now we won`t get married. And now that Bianca is getting married the other part of Erica is like, hooray, I get to play my daughter`s wedding after all.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: The uniting of these women today to establish a new family is an important and memorable event.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I promise to love you and devote myself to you.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I promise to always put my hand in yours so that we can face what`s ahead together.
OGUNNAIKE: But at least one religious group is not happy with the long running show`s latest love affair.
GLENN STANTON, RESEARCH FELLOW, FOCUS ON THE FAMILY: I think it`s really is important to understand that there are a lot of things that people really don`t want to see and don`t want coming into their home, and lesbian weddings are certainly one of them.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Before you, I was in a timeless fog, unable to see past yesterday.
NEIL GIULIANO, PRESIDENT. GAY & LESBIAN ALLIANCE AGAINST DEFAMATION: It`s reality. And so when we see a lesbian couple getting married on daytime drama, it simply reflects what is happening in the real world. So in that sense, of course, it`s a victory.
TAMARA BRAUN, ACTRESS: With the divorce rate as high as it is, you should have that right. No matter what sex you are, who you love, what color you are, you know, how many extra toes and feet you have. Equal rights for all people.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Standing here with you - it`s where I belong.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Amazing. People really still have a problem with this? Isn`t it 2009 - last time I checked anyway? That was CNN`s "AMERICAN MORNING" entertainment correspondent Lola Ogunnaike for SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
And that is it for SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Remember, you can always catch SHOWBIZ TONIGHT on the 11:00s - 11:00 p.m. Eastern and Pacific, and in the morning at 11:00 a.m. Eastern on HLN.
END
