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Showbiz Tonight
Elisabeth Hasselbeck Under Fire; Oprah-Sarah Palin Controversy; The Jonas Brothers` Virginity Issue; Michael Jackson`s Underwear for Sale; Tori Spelling Tops Bestseller List
Aired September 09, 2008 - 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 - tonight, the Hasselbeck views that have everyone burning up. Brand-new outrage over the story SHOWBIZ TONIGHT first broke. "View" co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck makes startling claims about the behind-the-scenes behavior of Michelle Obama and Cindy McCain. Tonight, what is Michelle now telling SHOWBIZ TONIGHT? And why is Hasselbeck`s one-time archenemy Rosie O`Donnell now going after Elisabeth?
Tonight, explosive new reaction to Oprah refusing to have Sarah Palin on her show for now. It`s "Showbiz On Call." SHOWBIZ TONIGHT with your fired up Oprah phone call.
Plus, virgin territory. Teen idols, The Jonas Brothers, at the center of a raging storm over virginity and young Hollywood. What The Jonas Brothers are now saying. SHOWBIZ TONIGHT starts right now.
(MUSIC)
Hello, I`m A.J. Hammer, broadcasting tonight and every night from New York City. And here we go again. Elisabeth Hasselbeck`s explosive view about Michelle Obama`s appearance on "The View." Now, there`s a brand-new war of words involving Elisabeth`s old arch enemy, former "View" co-host, Rosie O`Donnell. Yes, I can tell you the gloves are off again.
And I can also tell you this is getting good. SHOWBIZ TONIGHT first broke the Hasselbeck story, how she said some not-so-nice things about Michelle Obama that, well, should have been kept private. We can also tell you that the story we first revealed is spreading like crazy. SHOWBIZ TONIGHT with the latest developments making news now.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
(voice over): It`s no secret that "View" co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck is an unapologetic Republican.
ELISABETH HASSELBECK, CO-HOST, "THE VIEW": Cindy McCain, we`re going all the way.
HAMMER: And that she`s not afraid to pick the occasional fights with her co-hosts.
WHOOPI GOLDBERG, CO-HOST, "THE VIEW": You have to stop talking so I could explain.
HASSELBECK: Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Wait a minute. We can`t call each other out on this table because I have a calling out to do, too.
HAMMER: But Hasselbeck`s shocking snipe at Barack Obama`s wife, Michelle, a story SHOWBIZ TONIGHT first broke, has put this "View" firebrand in a firestorm of criticism. First, on the airwaves -
HOWARD BRAGMAN, CELEBRITY PUBLICIST AND FOUNDER OF FIFTEEN MINUTES PUBLIC RELATIONS: I think she has done a lot of damage to the show.
ALICIA QUARLES, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS: I think Elisabeth Hasselbeck comments raises eyebrows.
HAMMER: And online, on sites like "PerezHilton.com."
And now, SHOWBIZ TONIGHT can tell you Hasselbeck`s Obama-bashing has now put her in the crosshairs of perhaps her most famous sparring partner of all.
ROSIE O`DONNELL, FORMER CO-HOST, "THE VIEW": Rosie, big, fat, lesbian loud Rosie, attacks innocent, pure Christian Elisabeth.
HAMMER: Her ex-"View" co-host Rosie O`Donnell, who`s responding to Elisabeth`s Obama comment. It`s just like old times.
AMY ARGETSINGER, "THE WASHINGTON POST": The cast of "The View" is not necessarily known for its discretion and sensitivity towards each other.
HAMMER: The whole thing started last week at the Republican National Convention.
HASSELBECK: I met Cindy six months ago when she came to co-host on "The View" -
HAMMER: Hasselbeck was hosting a luncheon in honor of John McCain`s wife, Cindy, a recent guest host on "The View." As she heaped praise on Mrs. McCain, Hasselbeck took a very thinly veiled swipe at Michelle Obama, who also recently guest-hosted on "The View."
HASSELBECK: Cindy came to our hair and makeup room, fresh as can be, and unlike another wife of a political candidate, who shall remain nameless, she didn`t come with a list of topics that we weren`t allowed to touch. That`s because she had nothing to hide.
ARGETSINGER: Elisabeth Hasselbeck was giving away a trade secret.
HAMMER: Amy Argetsinger of "The Washington Post" tells SHOWBIZ TONIGHT Hasselbeck`s no-no was not backing McCain but in revealing what may have gone on behind the scenes at "The View" during Michelle Obama`s appearance.
ARGETSINGER: This is a situation which Elisabeth Hasselbeck was divulging a little secret about how the show is done and using it for a very partisan purpose. It was probably something that`s not going make the people of "The View" very happy.
HAMMER: Enter Rosie who used to co-host with Hasselbeck on "The View" until the two of them famously got into one bitter political argument too many.
HASSELBECK: Defend your own insinuations!
O`DONNELL: I defend my thoughts.
HAMMER: On Rosie`s blog, a reader asked about the Elisabeth`s incident. Rosie`s icy and brief response, quote, "It shows you clearly who she is." Ouch.
ARGETSINGER: I thought Rosie was very tiffy(ph).
HAMMER: And elsewhere on her blog, Rosie compares Hasselbeck to John McCain`s running mate Sarah Palin. Writing, quote, "Sarah P., Elisabeth H., identical cousins, women who hunt in high heels, gives one pause."
Michelle Obama`s people tell SHOWBIZ TONIGHT they have no comment on Hasselbeck`s remarks. And spokespeople for "The View" tell us they don`t discuss what goes on backstage.
On the air, there was no mention of the controversy Tuesday as "The View" hosted John McCain`s daughter Meghan. Amy Argetsinger of "The Washington Post" is not surprised.
ARGETSINGER: It is something that could be potentially embarrassing to "The View" and one they might not want to be working out amongst themselves on the air.
HAMMER: So it appears Rosie O`Donnell is the only person even remotely connected to "The View" who is saying something about Hasselbeck`s swipe at Michelle Obama. And we may never know what kind of fallout Hasselbeck`s comments may have had behind the scenes of "The View."
ARGETSINGER: It is possible that this could cause some friction. But then, what would "The View" be without friction?
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Exactly right. Well, it is bad enough that Michelle Obama might now be peeved at Elisabeth. But, you know, that`s nothing compared to facing the wrath of Rosie.
Joining me tonight from Hollywood, investigative journalist Pat Lalama. In New York tonight, it`s Ashleigh Banfield Tru TV host and anchor of "Banfield and Ford in Session."
All right. So there is no way around it. Hasselbeck basically accused Michelle Obama of being a diva at "The View" and having something to hide. Now, Michelle Obama`s camp tells SHOWBIZ TONIGHT they are not going to be commenting on this.
Pat Lalama, why do you think Michelle would be so polite? I have to think that you can`t be happy about what Elisabeth said here.
PAT LALAMA, INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALIST: No. she`s probably not happy. But I think if you look at just the facts here before we start the debate, you know, she did say some things that got her in a little bit of trouble previously such as, you know, "America`s mean-spirited country," and "For the first time in my adult life, I`m proud of my country."
And I think after that, the handlers said, "Michelle, you`re bright. You`re fabulous. You`re wonderful, but just kind of step back and just be quiet maybe a little." And I think that they probably told her, "Take the high road. Don`t respond. Stay out of trouble." And frankly, I think it is the right idea.
HAMMER: Yes. Taken the PR take that, you know, sometimes you just have to try to let something go away and move on.
LALAMA: You have to buck up.
HAMMER: I don`t think this is going to go away. That`s my personal take on it. Now, Michelle Obama`s camp may have no comment on Hasselbeck. I`ve got to tell you, our SHOWBIZ TONIGHT viewers fired up with plenty to say. They flooded our "Showbiz On Call" phone lines. We heard from Erica in Atlanta. For one, Erica is not ready to let Hasselbeck off the hook. Listen to what she said.
(BEGIN AUDIO CLIP)
ERICA, CALLER FROM ATLANTA: I think that it is a disgrace that she would get in front of anyone and tell what happened behind the scenes at "The View." Barbara Walters should be very upset with her right now. Elisabeth should be ashamed of herself and I also believe that she should be reprimanded.
(END AUDIO CLIP)
HAMMER: Yes. What do you think about that, Ashleigh Banfield? Is Erica from Atlanta on to something there? Barbara perhaps should reprimand Hasselbeck because she really, I think, did cross a line here. Or in the very least, you know, have Elisabeth apologize for her comments on the show.
ASHLEIGH BANFIELD, TRU TV HOST AND ANCHOR OF "BANFIELD AND FORD IN SESSION": Well, I don`t think Barbara Walters is the kind of journalist who would ever dictate anyone`s opinion on the air or what their opinion should be had on the air. So for that matter, no, I don`t think she should tell Elisabeth Hasselbeck what to say or what not say.
I think, if anything, though, maybe Elisabeth`s agent might counsel her in her tone and how she speaks with potential - you know, speaks about potential first ladies of the future. That`s just not the kind of professionalism that I think a lot of broadcasters want to be known for. And I`m sure - I`m sure that Elisabeth probably regrets that kind of tone being caught on camera at the Republican convention luncheon that she did this. Don`t forget this wasn`t on "The View" that she did this. It was at a luncheon. She may not have known the cameras were rolling.
HAMMER: Well, that`s another thing her manager could advise her of. You know, every time you say something and there are cameras rolling, now in the age we live in, it`s likely that it will get out there, particularly if it is controversial.
However, you mentioned something about journalism and Barbara`s rules of journalism. I don`t think those really apply over there at "The View." I think it`s a different standard.
BANFIELD: Sometimes they do. Sometimes they do. They like to keep it balanced.
HAMMER: I think it gets a little gray sometimes with that. You`ve got to love - once again, by the way, game back on for Rosie-Hasselbeck, the feud there. We just heard Rosie is writing on her blog about Elisabeth that what she did, quote, "shows you clearly who she is." She called her Sarah Palin`s identical cousin saying that they are, quote, "women who hunt in high heels."
Pat Lalama, over to you. Why do you think Rosie O`Donnell has decided to reignite this feud?
LALAMA: Well, (UNINTELLIGIBLE) takes a different approach while it`s angry and jealous. That`s what I have to say.
HAMMER: Yes.
LALAMA: Secondly, Rosie, I think, needs the attention right now. But let me tell you something. I think Elisabeth should just, you know - I don`t think what she did was right. Let me just make that clear. When you work for an organization, there`s probably something in her contract that says, "You know, you don`t talk about what happens behind the scenes." So I think it was slightly tacky even though I feel for her because she is swimming with sharks half the time because of her political views, you know, in the media. So I feel for her and she is a tough chick and she probably won`t back down. But I do think that was a little tacky.
LALAMA: Having said that - back to Rosie, I`m not going to argue with someone who thinks 9/11 was a conspiracy and steel doesn`t melt. So I would just stay out of it.
HAMMER: So why don`t we just leave it there, then. Pat Lalama, Ashleigh Banfield, thanks for being here tonight.
BANFIELD: Bye.
HAMMER: All right. What do you think about the whole Elisabeth Hasselbeck-Michelle Obama controversy, or really anything else? Let us know. It`s your chance to get on the air with "Showbiz On Call." Here`s the number to call: 1-888-SBT-BUZZ. Once again, 1-888-728-2899. Leave me a voicemail, please. I`m going to play some of your calls right here on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
And I know we`re going to get a bunch of calls about this. The Jonas Brothers caught up in a shocking controversy about their virginity. Yes, the squeaky-clean singers are speaking out about the storm that erupted at the MTV Video Music Awards. You do not want to miss what they are saying about this raging battle over virginity and young Hollywood. That`s coming up next.
And I`ll tell you, this battle over whether Oprah should put Republican VP pick Sarah Palin on her show before the election - it shows no signs of slowing down. Tonight SHOWBIZ TONIGHT, "Showbiz On Call." You absolutely flooded our voicemail box with your fired up calls about this tonight. You get to speak out. I`m playing some of your calls, coming up.
And Michael Jackson`s dirty underwear up for sale for a million bucks. I think that`s pretty much all I need to say or really want to say about that. That`s coming up on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. We`re coming right back.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
RUSSELL BRAND, HOST, MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS, 2008: I`ve got to say sorry because I said them things about promise rings that were bad to me. I didn`t mean to take it lightly. I love The Jonas Brothers. I think it`s really good.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: That`s MTV Video Music Awards host Russell Brand apologizing to the teen idols, The Jonas Brothers, after making really crude remarks about the rings they wear promising to remain virgins.
Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Tonight, the big Jonas Brothers virginity controversy. Just one of two big stories making news right now.
The Disney bred superstars are now speaking out for the very first time about Russell Brand crossing the line about their virginity at the MTV Video Music Awards. Are the brothers willing to forgive and forget?
Also new right now, Jessica Simpson just barely avoids a disastrous moment this morning on live TV. Wait until you see this in just a moment.
With me tonight, from Hollywood, Rachel Zalis. She`s the senior editor of "Life and Style" magazine. In New York, Ben Widdicombe - he`s the editor-at-large for "Star" magazine.
Guys, we`ve got to take a look at what Russell Brand said at the VMAs that set off this whole firestorm. Roll that Charles.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
BRAND: Each of The Jonas Brothers does wear a tiny ring as a mark of their commitment to God. I will take you more seriously if they wore it on their (EXPLETIVE DELETED).
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: OK. I think you can just imagine what he said there. But The Jonas Brothers now say they accept Russell Brand`s apology and gave a brand-new interview to the BBC. Here is what they say, "For us, it is cool to see he recognizes us as gentlemen."
Well, I don`t know that he exactly said that in a statement. And could the member - Ben do you think that The Jonas Brothers perhaps should have made a strong point that poking fun of teens who wear these promise rings is actually very un-cool?
BEN WIDDICOMBE, EDITOR-AT-LARGE, "STAR" MAGAZINE: Well, I hate to say it, A.J., but I`m with Russell Brand before he apologized. I mean, The Jonas Brothers are sweet kids and all. But really, I do not believe for one second that all three of them are going to be virgins on their wedding night.
HAMMER: Oh, you are such a cynic, Ben. Come on.
WIDDICOMBE: Seriously, I would rather hear a young celebrity talking about how he is responsible and educated about sexuality than pretending that the Disney marketing manual is a book of the New Testament.
HAMMER: Well, accepting this for what it is, what do you think, Rachel? I actually think the idea of The Jonas Brothers simply accepting, you know, Brand`s apology and moving on is a smart publicity move, let this thing go.
RACHEL ZALIS, SENIOR EDITOR, "LIFE AND STYLE" MAGAZINE: Yes, I think they are very smart. You know, instead of letting it escalate into more drama, they`re really bright kids to just let it go and say, "He`s a funny guy."
I actually - I disagree with Ben. I think it is nice to have young guys that are inspirational role models to the teens. I mean, it is a very schizophrenic time right now to be a teen. There`s "Gossip Girl" and "90210." It`s very sexy, those shows. And here, you have these guys that they really look up to and you know, coming out very vocally about how that`s important to them.
HAMMER: Ben is just worried they are not actually going to keep their promise, I think is the deal there.
Let me heighten this a little bit. Let me raise the bar in the whole story by bringing in Paris Hilton. Paris Hilton has now, believe it or not, come to the defense of The Jonas Brothers. Oh, good. Paris is telling "UsMagazine.com," quote, "I don`t pick on them. That`s something cool for a kid to keep, so don`t pick on them for that." Kind of agreeing with you, Rachel.
Paris obviously has a lot of influence on young girls as do The Jonas Brothers. You know, I don`t know how I feel about Paris, the puritan ringing the bell for virginity, Ben. But could Paris actually have some influence here, perhaps, you know, "Do as I say and not as I do?" Or is she just a total hypocrite for even saying anything?
WIDDICOMBE: Oh, I think kids are very smart about Paris Hilton. And I think they know what she stands for. She`s the world`s most famous user of Valtrex, for example. And now, she`s turned around and is saying, "Abstinence is hot." I think people will recognize that that`s absurd.
HAMMER: Rachel, are The Jonas Brothers, "American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks and others who are wearing these purity rings really, you know, ushering in this new era in Hollywood, that you seem to think is necessary? You know, I don`t know what would you call it, maybe anti-Paris sex tape era?
ZALIS: Yes. I was going to say the queen of sex tapes. How ironic that she is the one standing up for them. But yes, you know, I think that they are at least trying to usher in a new wave. You know, Jordin Sparks was very vocal about that as well on the awards show. So, you know, let them do their thing. It is a nice change.
HAMMER: Do their thing. All right. Let`s move on to Jessica Simpson. Her troubles have certainly been well-documented over the past couple of years. She`s got a new country album that just dropped. And I feel a little badly for her because she took the stage for "Good Morning, America" this morning and things got off to - well, shall I say, a pretty rough start. Let`s roll that.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
JESSICA SIMPSON: Thrill me as a southern girl with her Levis on and an open heart. I know this is live TV but I can`t hear anything. Do it again. One, two, three. You got it? There we go.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: At least, she didn`t start doing some kind of hoe-down dance, you know what I`m saying? And poor Jessica, though. She did manage to recover. It was not a total loss there. But Ben, you know, she was trying to reinvent herself here into a country music star. Could this be seen as kind of bad omen?
WIDDICOMBE: Well, you know, I say good for Jessica. There was a glitch but she handled it like a pro. Of course, it`s going to invite comparisons to her sister Ashlee when she was caught lip-synching on "Saturday Night Live." Ashlee handled it by jumping off the stage and leaving dead air. Jessica just got back right on the horse and her song. So I think she handled it quite well.
HAMMER: Rachel, are you with Ben?
ZALIS: Totally with Ben. I mean, I think that`s part of what we love about Jessica. She is kind of an "Aw, shucks, I made a mistake. I`m going to fix it and just move on. So I think she`s just is doing fine.
HAMMER: And as Ben said, a pro. You know, she certainly has been in situations before where things have gone technically wrong and knew how to handle it. Nice going and best of luck to you, Jessica Simpson.
And Rachel Zalis, and Ben Widdicombe, I appreciate you being here.
All right. So Oprah Winfrey now caught up in yet another controversy. Tonight, I can tell you, SHOWBIZ TONIGHT viewers fired up about this. Our "Showbiz On Call" voicemail box has simply been flooded with your messages. Tonight, you get a chance to speak out. Should Oprah have Republican vice presidential pick Sarah Palin on her show before the election? Your heated calls are coming up.
Not much more I can say about this story. Michael Jackson`s dirty underwear for sale for a million bucks. I`ve got to tell you, I don`t know why anyone is selling this and, quite frankly, don`t know why someone would actually buy it. And now, I think I need to take a Purel bath. That is coming up as well.
And Alec Baldwin`s big mouth getting him into trouble again. Not calling his daughter a rude, thoughtless little pig this time around, but he`s caught up in an ugly battle and well, he could make some Scientologists pretty angry. We`ve got that coming up on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
Now, remember, you can watch SHOWBIZ TONIGHT video any time. We are always posting new stuff for you to watch all the time. It`s right there on our Web site. Surf on over to CNN.com/ShowbizTonight. And among the videos playing right now, was Elisabeth Hasselbeck out of line for revealing what went on behind the scenes when Michelle Obama was on "The View"? We`re coming right back.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Thanks a lot, Charles. Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer. Tonight, I`ve got your very first look at Ellen DeGeneres` wedding pictures. Now, on the second show of her brand-new season, Ellen showed off her wedding ring and revealed the secrets of her wedding to longtime girlfriend Portia de Rossi. Watch this.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
ELLEN DEGENERES, HOST "THE ELLEN DEGENERES" SHOW: The whole thing, though - it was very simple, very traditional. And both of us wore pink and white because pink is pretty and white is, you know the old wedding rhyme, you know, "You`ve chosen right, if you`ve married in white." And then, the other half, of course, is, "You will forever be blessed if you are married in a vest." And so Mama gave us some good vice. And I`m very happy.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Yes. With all that applause you heard, as you see the audience gave Ellen a standing ovation. And then she made a joke saying, quote, "Who knew John McCain and I would have something in common? We both chose female running mates."
Ellen married Portia last month in a small ceremony at their Beverly Hills home. As soon as the California Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in May, Ellen said she and Portia would tie the knot. Congratulations to both of them.
Well, Ellen just had Michelle Obama on her show. Controversy over at "The View" with Elizabeth Hasselbeck going off on Michelle Obama. And people are all fired up over Oprah Winfrey not having Republican VP pick Sarah Palin on her show before the election. All the talk shows caught up in this presidential race. Who knew that could ever happen?
Tonight, your chance to speak out. "Showbiz On Call," your heated phone calls over this Oprah-Palin battle, coming up next.
I can tell you that Alec Baldwin is caught up in another nasty war of words - not dissing his daughter this time. But what he is saying - well, it could really tick off the Church of Scientology. I`ve got that, coming up.
And Michael Jackson`s dirty underwear up for sale on eBay for a million dollars. Do I really need to say anything more about that to get you to stick around? You don`t want to miss that.
First, I need to tell you, you can always stay on top of the most provocative entertainment news with our daily SHOWBIZ TONIGHT newsletter. Just head on over to CNN.com/ShowbizTonight. If you click on that "sign up for newsletter" link at the bottom of the page, we`ll send it to you every day. SHOWBIZ TONIGHT is coming right back.
(NEWS BREAK)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Now, on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT, "Showbiz On Call." Tonight, your fired- up phone calls about what everyone is talking about. Should Oprah have Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin on her show before the election? It`s your chance to speak out on this heated debate right here on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
Michael Jackson`s underwear for sale. For $1 million. Tonight the bizarre and just plain gross auction for Michael`s briefs. Why are they being sold? And why in the world would anyone spend a million bucks on them? SHOWBIZ TONIGHT continues right now.
(MUSIC)
Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. It is 30 minutes past the hour. I`m A.J. Hammer, broadcasting tonight and every night from New York City. Tonight, explosive new reaction to Oprah refusing to have Sarah Palin on her show. I`ve got to tell you, we`ve just been flooded with calls from viewers on our "Showbiz On Call" phone lines. And tonight, your voice is being heard right here in this great debate.
Oprah is under fire for deciding not to have Sarah Palin on her show until after the election. Oprah says her show is not a platform for politics. And besides, she had Barack Obama on before he began his race to the presidency.
Helping us kick things off, CNN political analyst Roland Martin who joins me here in New York. And in Hollywood tonight, investigative journalist Pat Lalama.
All right. Pat and Roland, I`ve got to tell you, our viewers just let loose on this topic. We actually had to add some more phone lines to "Showbiz On Call." It is a very heated debate. And I want you to listen to what our caller Erica from California had to say about this.
(BEGIN AUDIO CLIP)
ERICA, CALLER FROM CALIFORNIA: I think that Oprah will have Sarah Palin on her show. Because when it comes down to it all, it`s really all about the ratings. However, I don`t think that Oprah really cares to have her on her show. I think that Oprah would be a little intimidated to have another female that has more pull than she does on her show.
(END AUDIO CLIP)
HAMMER: All right. All due respect to Erica from California, you know, I don`t think Oprah would be intimidated by Sarah Palin. She`s Oprah. Roland Martin, would you agree with me or Erica?
ROLAND MARTIN, CNN POLITICAL ANALYST: Hey, Erica, whatever have you in your hand, trust me, it is for medicinal purposes only, OK?
LALAMA: Oh.
MARTIN: Look, Oprah is not afraid of anybody. Oprah has been very consistent from day one that she is not going to have any candidates on. She didn`t have Hillary Clinton. She hasn`t had John McCain. In fact, she has not had Obama since he announced for president. So I don`t see what the big deal is. She was very consistent. She said that a year ago, why change now?
HAMMER: Yes. Erica also thinks that Oprah will have her on for the sake of ratings. Pat, what do you think? Oprah - would she possibly flip-flop and have the candidate on? Do you see that scenario happening?
LALAMA: Here is the deal, ladies and gentlemen. As much as I like Sarah and I will defend her, last I looked this is not state-run media. This is not the fairness doctrine enacted thank goodness. This is Oprah having her own show in the United States of America who can have any guest she likes on. She is under no obligation.
However, having said that, it is clear - I will be the first to say it, she doesn`t want Sarah on because she doesn`t want to give the punch to Sarah`s campaign. Obama is her man, end of story.
(CROSS TALK)
HAMMER: Pat, hold on a second. Hold it. Roland Martin pointed out just a moment ago, I know that it seems that way.
LALAMA: Yes.
HAMMER: And in fact, we are going to discuss this very point in just a moment. Because first, I want to play another phone call. Because I hear what you are saying, Pat, but I think you`re wrong. Johnnie in Oklahoma called us.
LALAMA: Oh, really?
HAMMER: Let`s listen to it. Johnnie -
(BEGIN AUDIO CLIP)
JOHNNIE, CALLER FROM OKLAHOMA: I think that it`s pretty obvious why Oprah doesn`t want Miss Palin aboard her show. I think she feels that it will take votes away from Obama. If you`ve looked at the recent polls recently, the Republican has had a bump. And right now, I believe Republicans are ahead of Obama in the general elections. So I believe that she doesn`t want anything to do with hurt Obama.
Obviously, she supports him. There`s nothing wrong with that. But I think that it is really politically motivated why she`s not having her onboard the show. I think that she is afraid that this will help Republican cause.
(END AUDIO CLIP)
HAMMER: OK. Johnnie, we thank you for your phone call. And so that is to your point, Pat Lalama. But again, as Roland pointed out, I will point out again, Oprah says she`s not having on any candidates, not because of that reason, but because she`s not having on any candidates.
MARTIN: A.J., it`s not a recent statement. Here`s the most important thing. First of all, some folks don`t want the facts to get in the way of the story. Oprah made this statement on August 21st, 2007 on "Gayle King Show" XM Radio. She did say the exact same thing to the Hollywood reporter in December 2007. So she`s been that way for a whole year.
LALAMA: Roland, I don`t deny the fact`s a fact. And if she made that policy, amen to her. That`s her right. I`m just saying that underneath, it just so happens it fits right in with her thinking that, "I really don`t want to I courage anyone else but Obama." It`s a perfect excuse.
MARTIN: No, no. You are wrong.
HAMMER: It`s not an excuse. And look, Oprah may be very happy that she said it because now she doesn`t have to have Sarah Palin on. But that`s not the reason she is not having Sarah Palin.
MARTIN: Thank you. Oprah said it out of her own mouth.
(CROSS TALK)
LALAMA: I get the deck is stacked. I thought that the host of the show was supposed to host to -
(CROSS TALK)
MARTIN: Pat, Pat, Pat, Pat. Wooza. Do TV yoga. Chill.
LALAMA: Excuse me?
MARTIN: Here`s the reality -
LALAMA: Chill? Wait a minute. Don`t you talk to me like that.
(CROSS TALK)
MARTIN: Pat, here is the most important thing. Oprah`s argument is that she laid it out there. I think if she had made - put the statement out in response to this fake story, I get that. But if she has been - this is a whole year. Every candidate knew a year ago they`re not doing an Oprah show. So what`s the big deal.
(CROSS TALK)
LALAMA: I said I don`t deny - I don`t deny that she made that policy. I`m just also saying it happens to help her because she is in a unique position because she is a woman and she supports Obama. I really think a large part of her audience would like Sarah Palin, would be influenced by Sarah Palin and she knows that. And so be it. More power to her.
(CROSS TALK)
MARTIN: Oprah is also black and I`m sure a lot of her audience would love to see Obama. But he has not been on -
LALAMA: He has already been there.
HAMMER: All right. Let`s have the host come in here and have my own moment of woosh - whatever the heck Roland just said.
MARTIN: You know, from "Bad Boys." Wooza.
HAMMER: OK. I`m going to play another phone call.
LALAMA: I`m not hip enough.
HAMMER: What we`re trying to do is show the amount of heat. I`m not kidding when I tell you literally the phone would not stop ringing. We heard from Barbara who is in South Carolina. A viewer suggests what could be a practical solution for Oprah to have Palin on her show. Let`s roll that.
(BEGIN AUDIO CLIP)
BARBARA, CALLER FROM SOUTH CAROLINA: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) warning Palin to be on the "Oprah" show because she`s a woman. Let every political woman or every woman that`s in politics be on there and have a show. Not exclusive interview for Palin but have Michelle Obama, Palin, and every other woman even Clinton. Have them all on at the same time.
(END AUDIO CLIP)
HAMMER: All right. So putting aside that Oprah said she wasn`t going to have anybody on, it is kind of an interesting idea. Pat Lalama, what do you think? You know, now that Barbara from South Carolina has put it out there. Do you think Oprah should consider having all of the women on?
LALAMA: I think it is a spectacular idea. My gosh, talk about a ratings getter. But again, it`s her show. This is America. She doesn`t have to do it. She can do whatever she wants and I support her for that. I think she is best to do what she said she`s going to do right now and not have any of these people on, and amen for that. But I still say that it just helps her cause not to have to bring on Sarah Palin.
MARTIN: A.J. A.J. -
HAMMER: To that end - to that end, Roland Martin. To that end, do you think that if she did, if Oprah did have Sarah Palin on the program, it would be a benefit perhaps to Sarah Palin and the McCain campaign?
MARTIN: Of course. Look, any free television will be a benefit to a campaign as taking public finance money, OK? So obviously, it will be a benefit. But here`s the deal. I`m loving this. It would be ratings. Last I checked, Oprah has the number one show on television and she is not quite hurting for ratings.
LALAMA: No. She doesn`t. I agree with you completely. She doesn`t need ratings and she`s an incredible person. I have utmost respect for her. And I`m going to go to bat for her on this and say it is her show. No one in America, be it citizen or political or whatever has the right to tell her who to have on. Yet, I`m still saying that it helps her cause to leave Sarah out of the picture.
HAMMER: Yes. It`s fair enough to say. So Roland, 10 seconds, she shouldn`t flip-flop here and have Sarah Palin on, should she?
MARTIN: No. Oprah should stick to her guns. She made it clear, "I`m not having any candidates on the show." You make a rule and you stick with it. And you know what? You push us out of this fake story because we all know that it was never truthful anyway. Matt Drudge did it. Wow. That`s like really a news source I`m depending on.
HAMMER: If you have something to say about Oprah I won`t cut you off, because you can call our "Showbiz On Call" phone number, which is 1-888- SBT-BUZZ; 1-888-728-2899. Let your voice be heard. We`re going to play some of your calls right here on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
Now, we`ve been also asking you to vote on our SHOWBIZ TONIGHT question of the day - "Oprah Winfrey: Should she have Sarah Palin on her show?" Keep voting by going to CNN.com/ShowbizTonight. If you`ve got more to say, the E-mail address, showbiztonight@cnn.com.
Well, I`ve heard some pretty strange stories before. I`ve got to tell you, nothing tops this one. Michael Jackson`s underwear up for auction. Why? The disgusting details are just ahead on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
Plus, Alec Baldwin sticks his foot in his mouth again. This time, he may have bitten off more than he could chew.
And do you believe this one, Tori Spelling, the next "New York Time`s" bestselling author? You`re taking a trip to the SHOWBIZ`s alternate universe, straight ahead.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Tonight, want to bid on Michael Jackson`s underwear? Yes. I didn`t think so. But they are up for sale and it is just one of three stories new right now.
Michael Jackson`s unwashed underwear, used as evidence in his child molestation case, being sold on eBay for $1 million. Would you buy them?
Also, new right now, imagine this. Tori Spelling is "New York Times" number one bestselling author for her memoir "sTORI Telling," 90210.
And a brand-new over-the-top rant from this guy, Alec Baldwin, this time, not against his daughter. It`s against his boss, NBC. Wait until you hear what he said.
Joining me now in New York, Ben Widdicombe. This guy is the editor- at-large for "Star" magazine. In Hollywood tonight - there she is. Rachel Zalis, senior editor at "Life and Style" magazine.
Guys, we`ve got to start off with this insane Michael Jackson story. There`s one headline I saw that basically says the whole thing, "Jacko`s Undies for Sale." Michael Jackson`s underwear used as evidence in his child molestation case back in 2003 going up for sale on eBay. It`s up there for $1 million.
And Ben, I`m going to you to help me understand why anyone would think that someone would pay $1 million for a pair of Michael Jackson`s used tidy whities.
WIDDICOMBE: Well, we can only hope that no one will pay $1 million for such an item of cultural ephemera. $1 million is the starting asking price on eBay. Also included in the auction are some items that are a little bit more interesting. For example, a handwritten note that Michael wrote to his former wife, Lisa Marie Presley, saying he wants an annulment. Now, I can see why scholars, or pop culture scholars might be interested in that. But his tidy whities, not so much.
HAMMER: You know, I didn`t check on eBay to see if that was a buy-it-now price. I`ve got to get back to you on all that. So you know where this comes from - as Ben mentioned, this is part of a whole collection. This is Jackson memorabilia that a New Jersey businessman won in a court case against the Jacksons over some unpaid bills.
And in case you`re thinking of bidding, this underwear happens to be sealed in an evidence bag with police tape around it. And as I mentioned, it is used, unwashed.
Rachel, I`m thinking all the more reason not to buy it.
ZALIS: Oh, boy. That has really the "ugh" factor, doesn`t it? You know, but I think for one Michael Jackson fan, this will be a real thriller to get this piece of memorabilia. You know, but people are willing to go to great lengths to buy anything that seems connected to scandal. And you know, I think the fact that it is still sealed in the bag and looks like a piece of evidence will make it really valuable for someone. And I think you can basically get anything on eBay. Sarah Palin`s plane. Michael Jackson`s underwear. It is pretty unbelievable right now.
HAMMER: If that make your head spin, wait until you hear this surreal headline new right now. I`ve got to tell you, I did a double take when I saw this. I think Tori Spelling is a lovely young woman. But she`s now hit number one on the "New York Times" bestseller list for her book "sTORI Telling." The former star of "Beverly Hills 90210" - you know, she already has her successful reality show on Oxygen. Ben, you`ve got to help me understand the obsession with all things Tori - number one on the "Times" bestseller list. Presidents have been there.
WIDDICOMBE: Well, I think Tori Spelling is a really likable character. I`ve interviewed her several times over the years and she really comes across as someone who`s in on the joke of her remarkable Hollywood upbringing and, of course, her iconic character, Donna Martin, on the original "90210" series.
Of course, plenty of other unusual people have topped the "New York Times" bestseller list. I`m thinking of Mick Foley, the WWE wrestler who has written three bestselling memoirs. And surely, the new season of "90210" must be helping her along. I know when Shannen Doherty said in an interview that Tori`s book was full of lies about her - that just made me want to go out and read it.
HAMMER: You made a good point. Tori Spelling gets the joke. You know, she was right here on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT, too. We have spoken to her many times. In fact, she was right here before she released the book. Our own Brooke Anderson asked her if she`d revealed any secrets including rumors she had plastic surgery. Here is Tori`s response.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
TORI SPELLING, FORMER "BEVERLY HILLS 90210" STAR: In my book, it`s kind of self-deprecating. I laugh at myself and everything looks kind of poking fun at everything that`s going on in my life. And that`s one of the big rumors. I address all the rumors in my book. I`m kind of laughing at myself.
BROOKE ANDERSON, CO-HOST, SHOWBIZ TONIGHT (on camera): Do you want to reveal anything here?
SPELLING: Then no one is going to buy the book if I did that.
ANDERSON: You are very smart and savvy businesswoman.
SPELLING: I`m a smart businesswoman.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: What do you think, Rachel? Any idea why the obsession here on 90210, the fact that she had an affair with the guy who is now her husband and father of her kids?
ZALIS: Yes. I mean, you know - I think Tori`s really the comeback kid right now. You know, people love a scandal. When she was younger, she was like the Beverly Hills rich kid. You know, and then she had a falling out with her dad and her mom. And then, you know, the married man situation. So she definitely had a lot of history but she came back with humor and with honesty.
I think we saw, you know, after the Hugh Grant situation, that if you come out, you make fun of yourself, you can laugh about it, you know - And she has a show on TV right now that shows a very sweet side to her (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
HAMMER: Go, Tori, go. I`m with you, Rachel.
All right. I`ve got to get to this last head-spinning story new right now. "30 Rock" star Alec Baldwin, another rant controversy. Baldwin ranted to "The New Yorker" magazine about the amount of attention "My Name is Earl" and "Scrubs" are getting on NBC compared to his show "30 Rock."
He`s issued an apology on "Huffington Post," kind of. Here is what he said, "My apologies to the cast and crews of `My Name is Earl` and `Scrubs.` In my frustration with NBC`s reprehensible promotion of `30 Rock,` I took an unfortunate swipe at both of those shows and that was not cool. But for `Earl`s` creator, Greg Garcia, who referred to me as `psychotic,` I have only one question. Why are you Scientologists always rendering these medical opinions you aren`t qualified to give?"
I really have only 10 seconds for you, Ben. But, what, is Alec just trying to get himself fired?
WIDDICOMBE: Well, it sounds like it. It quite interesting he said in the "The New Yorker" last week, that when the show was first (UNINTELLIGIBLE), he thought the show was beneath him. He said he didn`t want to do it. But NBC would only buy the show if Alec agreed to be in every episode. So he`s kind of stuck in it and maybe he is trying to get out of it.
HAMMER: And for the record, I should point out that Garcia, who`s the creator of "Scrubs," denies that he is a Scientologist.
Ben Widdicombe, Rachel Zalis, thank you for being here tonight.
ZALIS: Thank you.
HAMMER: Moving on now, did you see this? British rocker Oasis, really known for fighting each other. They were actually attacked on stage by a total stranger. And it was all caught on tape. Watch.
(VIDEO OF OASIS BEING ATTACKED BY PERFORMING ON STAGE)
HAMMER: That was actually pretty scary. The guys are right there in the middle of a concert in Toronto. All of a sudden, this man jumped from backstage as you saw and slammed Oasis rocker Noel Gallagher into the speakers. Now, the guy tried to get a swipe at lead singer Liam Gallagher. Security got him just in time. This show eventually continued.
But the band`s Web site says that Noel was treated for a fractured rib and ligament damage after the show. The alleged assailant, a 47-year-old man, was arrested and then he was released pending a court date.
Well, "Dancing With The Stars," a huge hit show, right? Doesn`t hold a candle to a brand new TV contest. What would happen if the presidential candidates competed in a televised dance-off? I mean, come on, think about it - The Obamas vs. the McCains. Imagine where it would take us in this great presidential race. Well, it actually happened. You will see it for yourself next on SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
And you can now watch SHOWBIZ TONIGHT any time simply by downloading our totally free podcast. If you`re looking for it, you`ll find it on our Web site, CNN.com/ShowbizTonight. You can also download it on iTunes. Just do a search for SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. And SHOWBIZ TONIGHT is coming right back.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Tonight, there is "Dancing With The Stars," and then there is "Dancing With The Candidates." Either way, you don`t want to miss a beat. Here now, CNN`s Jeanne Moos for SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
JEANNE MOOS, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice over): It`s another dancing Obama. Is that Ellen makes eyes at Michelle? No. They`re just having fun. Michelle even emulated her husband, brushing off mud flung during the campaign. Ellen pronounced Michelle a better dancer than Barack and showed a split screen to prove it.
(on camera): Maybe what we need a dance-off, a presidential dance-off between the couples.
(voice over): Wait a minute. "Mad TV" has already done it. The Obamas versus the McCains. "So You Think You Can Dance: Presidential Edition" airs Saturday. It features an Asian actor, bobby lee playing John McCain transformed by make-up.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: I look subhuman.
MOOS: He sure gave the actress playing Michelle a shock.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTRESS: Oh, my god.
MOOS: Actually, there is a second Michelle who did the dancing, but she is a he. Getting into drag. Call me RuPaul if you will.
MOOS: And while he got into drag, Keegan-Michael Key got some new ears. To make him look like the real thing, they added -
KEEGAN-MICHAEL KEY, ACTOR: An eighth of an inch extra earage.
MOOS: The actress playing Cindy McCain didn`t need any body parts.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTRESS: You just got to keep your top lip up and not blink, and you`re good to go.
MOOS: Aren`t you forgetting something?
UNIDENTIFIED ACTRESS: I saw it with three small children in there propping it up.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Bam, bam, bam.
MOOS: Give John McCain a little hair and he`s ready to go. The McCains do a waltz. The Obamas hip-hop.
UNIDENTIFIED ACTOR: Is that it?
MOOS: No, this is it.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Oh, the fun continues. That was CNN`s Jeanne Moos for SHOWBIZ TONIGHT.
Well, on Monday, we asked you to vote on our SHOWBIZ TONIGHT question of the day, which was - "Oprah Winfrey: Should she have Sarah Palin on her show?" Look at this, pretty even mix; 52 percent of you saying yes; 48 percent no.
Among the E-mails - one from David in Ohio. David writes, The real question is should Sarah Palin go on `Oprah` TV show? Oprah has made her politics known!"
We also heard from Mary in Texas saying, "The `Oprah` show should not invite Palin as a speaker (sic) until the November elections are over. Don`t do it, Oprah!"
HAMMER: Well, that is it for SHOWBIZ TONIGHT. Thanks for watching. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. The latest from "CNN HEADLINE NEWS" is coming up next.
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