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Showbiz Tonight
The Salahi`s Is Back In Lime Light; Cher Not Backing Down For Her Child Being Transgender; MacAfee Named The Most Dangerous Actress For Download
Aired September 15, 2011 - 23:00 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
A.J. HAMMER, HOST (voice-over): More big news breaking tonight on "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT."
The strange Salahi saga. Tonight, bizarre new twist involving the reported kidnapping White House crasher, Michaele Salahi. The stunning claimed that, she wasn`t kidnapped but ran off with the guitarist from journey? All these just one big publicity stunt?
Hollywood hacking habit. Tonight Scarlett Johansson fights back after nude photos of her were apparently leaked on line. Plus revealing photos of Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake also reportedly leaked.
Defending Chaz. Tonight, singing star Kristin Chenoweth tells me her take no prisoner`s message for people who are attacking Chaz Bono because he`s transgender.
And on "Dancing with the Star,"
KRISTIN CHENOWETH, ACTRESS: All I can say is can you imagine feeling that you were born with a wrong body?
HAMMER: Kristin right here in a showbiz newsmaker interview. TV`s most provocative entertainment news show breaks news right now.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Hello, I`m A.J. Hammer in New York with big news breaking tonight.
The runaway party crasher. Tonight infamous White House party crasher and reality show star Michaele Salahi is on a new journey with a guitarist from journey after running away from her husband.
Tonight, "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" brings you the very latest developments in a story that`s really so bizarre to me, the reality of it could be its own shown. All of it began with her husband claiming what she was kidnapped. Sorry pal, you`ve been dumped big time.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER (voice-over): This is one matchup involving the wildly popular 1980s group journey that won`t see on "Glee." former real housewives of D.C. stars and one time White House party crashers Michaele and Tareq Salahi`s are having their marriage crashed by journey With Michaele joining the band on the road.
DAX HOLT, TMZ: She ran out with guitarist for journey Neal Schon.
HAMMER: Plus Michaele`s failure to write a dear Tareq letter explaining her whereabouts, led her husband to report her as kidnapped.
TAREQ SALAHI, MICHAELE`S HUSBAND: I`m just scared for her.
HAMMER: Today, just about every news and talk show on the air filed up more journey song references than the `80s night of the karaoke bar.
She`s a run to journey`s guitarist Neal Schon with open arms.
HAMMER: So, "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" has the latest on how the Salahi`s went their separate ways after Michaele`s journey to the open arms of another man.
MUSIC PLAYING: Possibly giving her some loving is touching, squeezing.
HAMMER: Sorry, couldn`t resist. And we hold out the possibility that maybe, just maybe the Salahi`s are playing us again?
AMY ARGETSINGER, THE WASHINGTON POST: You can`t make this stuff, unless maybe someone did.
HAMMER: It all started yesterday when Tareq Salahi called police from the couple`s Virginia home saying his wife ha been kidnapped.
HOLT: Michaele actually told Tareq that was going out to get her hair done, left the house and never came back.
HAMMER: Later, a friend of Tareq told Washington station WRC (ph) that he got a strange call from Michaele.
TAREQ SALAHI: The call was re-cryptic. It didn`t make sense. She was speaking (inaudible). Almost like she was trying to tell me a message.
HAMMER: But later the cops got Michaele on the phone and let`s just say they decided not to issue any amber alerts.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: She is where she wanted to be. Miss Salahi advised she did not want Mister Salahi to know where she was. She had left the residence with a good friend.
HAMMER: Now, we know who that good friend is. Journey confirms to "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" that Michaele joined Journey guitarist Neal Schon in Tennessee where the band is performing.
HOLT: Michaele and Neal Schon have been friends for quite some time. They actually had a relationship together in the past.
HAMMER: TMZ`s Dox Holt tells "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" the Salahi`s have a history with journey.
HOLT: We know that he feels very, very, betrayed number one by Journey and the band members because they were close friends of his. He is crushed right now. He felt like Michaele was the number one thing in his life and he says I feel like my life is over.
HAMMER: And so you have the greatest reality show meets 1980`s rock group combination since Bret Michaels. We hate to be a buzz kill since this journey fest but -
MUSIC PLAYING: Don`t stop believing.
HAMMER: Some have yet to start believing that this outlandish story is real.
ARGETSINGER: I`m probably one of the skeptics.
HAMMER: Amy Argetsinger of "the Washington Post" has covered the Salahi exploits on the DC social scene. She tells "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" the only thing more complicated than the Salahi`s relationship is their relationship with the truth. It makes their new situation hard to believe.
ARGETSINGER: Michaele Salahi from many years claimed to have been a red skins cheerleader, which the red skins organization denied. They continued to maintain they had been invited to the White House, despite the White House saying they had not been invited. You just never know in a situation like this have we been had? Are we getting played here?
HOLT: Well, the skeptics out there, I believe this one is legitimate.
HAMMER: But TMZ`s Dox Holt is so.
HOLT: I got to say that is the main reason I do not believe this is fake or a publicity stunt because of how hard this man is taking it. He`s been telling all of his friends this is the worst thing to happen to him.
HAMMER: So, is this a true love triangle, a publicity stunt or is it just a chance for new shows to play old journey songs? Maybe the answer is. - any way you want it
OK, we`ll stop.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Well, did you hear that? That is the sound, I believe, of the clock resetting for another 15 minutes of fame for the Salahi`s. The burning question still remains, is Tareq Salahi`s kidnapping claim just a big hoax or is it the latest unpredictable things to happen to really one of the most unpredictable reality TV couples.
Right now from Washington is Linda Erkiletian, she co-stars with Michaele Salahi on "the Real Housewives of D.C." Linda, I appreciate you`re being here particularly because you`ve known Michaele for such a long time, long before your reality show. So, you know all too well that the Salahi`s and whack-a-doodle stories go hand in hand, right? Do you think Tareq Salahi`s kidnapping claim was indeed is a big hoax?
LINDA ERKILETIAN, FMS STAR, REAL HOUSEWIVES OF D.C.: Well, when I first heard about it, I was genuinely concerned for her well being. And it took about 30 seconds for me to start visualizing the fact she had run for her life. So, I don`t think very many people felt it was a hoax. At least I didn`t. I just saw her as taking an opportunity to escape.
HAMMER: Right, OK. So obviously you felt that perhaps she had a reason to escape or a need to escape?
ERKILETIAN: Well, from spending time with the two of them on "the Real Housewives of D.C.," I realized that she was never without him. It was his though they had an invisible pair of handcuffs. And I started to express concern and at one point the ladies and I had thought about doing some sort of an intervention and we could never get her alone to herself to even think about finding out the truth of how the position that she was in, so
HAMMER: So the news didn`t surprise you that she ran away with someone else?
ERKILETIAN: Well, I think that nothing could surprise me when it comes to the Salahi`s at this point. I mean, there`s always something in the background. And I think that we`re all so exhausted by it that it was like, it was a little difficult to even comprehend that there was a possibility that she was kidnapped.
But you have to give that consideration. You have to think or did something happen to her on her within her home. Yes, I`ve always had some concern in regards to Tareq.
HAMMER: Well, you guys obviously are very close and you get to see what`s really going on in each other`s lives. I want to bring in one of your sisters from the housewives sisterhood, Jill Zarin. Of course, you know her from "the Real Housewives of New York." You know, Jill it`s interesting, you kind don`t know whether to feel badly for Michaele or to actually laugh at what went on here. It`s sort of sad if she had to secretly bolt from her marriage. What did you think when this story started breaking? What was going through your mind?
JILL ZARIN, CO-STAR, REAL HOUSEWIVES OF NEW YORK CITY: Well, I think it`s just very sick. I mean I don`t know what`s wrong with them and to see a police officer has to make a press conference about her whereabouts, she`s been off television for a very long time. They did a very short stint on D.C. and for her to have all this fame and action around her, I mean, she left her husband, you know?
HAMMER: But of course, you hear the kidnapping claims, all of a sudden I`m thinking about balloon boy. You know, that`s what popped into my mind.
ZARIN: Really?
HAMMER: Yes, because I`m thinking oh gosh, another hoax and here the Salahi`s again. And to that Linda, I need to ask you this. Knowing the Salahi`s, both Michaele and Tareq, do you think that perhaps they are reveling in all this attention that they`re get? Look, they`re back on TV all of a sudden and we do know that they did love all the attention that they got.
ERKILETIAN: I think she is possibly a lot more than he may be at this point based on what I just saw. I really hope with all my heart that he is not drowning in his tears and that she will find her new journey to be exciting and that -
ZARIN: No pun intended.
ERKILETIAN: That this show will like their, their, their crazy you know after show will stop because, frankly, I think we`re all getting a little exhausted by it.
HAMMER: No, I think none of us are really interested. And Linda, I really appreciate your insight on that.
Jill, I need you-to-you ask you about news we have late breaking late today. Now, the "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" newsroom has been all abuzz about "the Real Housewives of New York city." We looked at the Huffington post today and it has you and your co-stars Kelly and Alex being let go pink slip jaw from your show.
Can you break some news for us and set the record straight about this? Because Bravo is say they go haven`t made any final decision yet.
ZARIN: And that is true. There`s no such thing as a pink slip when it comes to TV. It`s really more they ask you if you`re interested in coming back and it`s a negotiation and if the money`s right, and the timing and the terms and everything. So, everybody has a different deal, everybody came on in a different season, everyone has different situation. But I think for speaking to all, "the house five", I think that they are also speaking to potential new housewives and they need to figure out who they you know who is going to work with who. So, I don`t think it`s been finalized.
HAMMER: Fair enough. When a decision is made, you will come back here and tell us all about it.
ZARIN: I promise.
HAMMER: Alright, Jill Zarin. Thank you so much. And Linda Erkiletian, thank you as well.
We must move on now to Hollywood`s hacking habit tonight. Scarlett Johansson, she is fighting back. Good for her. This is after nude photos were apparently leaked online. Plus revealing photos of Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake together, all through reportedly leaked.
Famous illusionist, David Copperfield is right here for a showbiz newsmaker interview. And tonight I got to get David`s take on this amazing handcuffed Houdini. I`m talking with b a guy who got arrested and somehow managed to slip out of his handcuffs.
Also, Kirstie Alley`s amazing new weight loss, wait until you see how much she dropped.
This is "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" on HLN, news and views.
It`s time for the showbiz news ticker, more stories from the "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" newsroom making news tonight.
TEXT: Kaye West to debut his women`s clothing line at Paris fashion week.
TEXT: Showbiz first look. Cast from `90s show `Home Improvement" reunites!
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Wow, you got to take a look at this. It`s Kirstie Alley right there. Now, she has taken a lot of hits for her yo-yoing (ph) weight. But tonight, I can tell you she has dropped 100 pounds. I think she looks fantastic and she did it with no plastic surgery.
60-year-old Kirstie showed off her amazing body, now a size four at the catwalk during New York`s fashion week. Way to go! Kirstie, nice going.
Welcome back in "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT." I`m A.J. Hammer in New York.
And now the showbiz fashion frenzy. All this week "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" has been bringing you the biggest stories coming out of New York`s spring fashion week, which just wrapped up today. And tonight, oh, Zoe, Rachel Zoe is the sty list to the stars, dressing Anne Hathaway, Cameron Diaz, Kate Hudson. But now, she`s aiming to the designer to the stars with her very own line. Here`s CNN Alina Cho for "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT."
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ALINA CHO, CNN CORRESPONDENT: On TV she`s watched by millions on "the Rachel Zoe project."
RACHEL ZOE, DESIGNER: I`m section months pregnant and at the busiest point in my career right now.
CHO: On the red carpet, it her stylish touch that`s front and center. Rachel Zoe makes a mint dresses A-list stars in designer clothing. Now those celebs are beginning to wear designs designed by Zoe herself.
You`ve been dressing celebrities for so long. When Jennifer Lopez -
ZOE: Look still, I get chills. Because I know where you`re going right now and I can`t even talk about it.
CHO: Jennifer Lopez in a white Rachel Zoe tuxedo dress. That`s right, Zoe`s first collection for stores on the racks this fall. It`s a big leap to go from stylist to designer.
ZOE: It is and I have very high expectations of myself.
CHO: You call it the scariest thing you`ve ever done.
ZOE: It`s 100 percent the scariest thing I`ve ever done. This isn`t something where I`m dressing someone and it`s the Oscars. This is a very constant, constant process.
CHO: She`s in Bloomingdale`s, Nordstrom`s, Saks Fifth Avenue and every Neiman Marcus in America. Something that company has never done for as first time designer. And the cloths` priced between $200 and $600, are already selling out.
JIM GOLD, PRESIDENT, SPECIALTY RETAIL, NEIMAN MARCUS: Because she works with all of the collections, because she`s in a fitting room all day long with her clients, she gets.
ZOE: Everything has a hint of glitz.
CHO: Vintage inspired something Zoe is known for. You were inspired in part by the Charlie girls?
ZOE: Yes. Love Charlie girls.
CHO: Yes, that`s Charlie girl. The `70s is this 40-year-old favorite decade. Her heroes, the legendary designers, Halston and Eve Saint Laurent.
ZOE: And it hollering (ph) is I`m aiming the fit, it`s so tremendous.
CHO: You always say if it doesn`t fit, don`t buy it.
ZOE: And don`t. And I stand behind that.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Unbelievable! It`s got it!
CHO: It`s this unguarded love, passion for fashion that is correct gets fans so excited. Now the stylist to the stars is also a brand and Rachel Zoe isn`t stopping at clothes.
ZOE: Home beauty, more television, maybe - I mean, just everything.
CHO: Talk show?
ZOE: No.
CHO: Maybe?
ZOE: We`ll see. We`ll see.
CHO: What is certain is that Zoe is a mother first. Her latest venture, a family business.
RODGER BERMAN, RACHEL`S HUSBAND: Look. Mommy made this.
CHO: Her husband`s the president. Her new son Skylar the heir apparent, that`s if he`s interested. Zoe says styling is still her first love.
ZOE: I always say I think I`ll be dressing Jennifer Garner when I`m 75. I really do. I actually (inaudible). You know, she`ll have a premiere and I`ll be OK, I`m coming. I`m really tired but I`m coming. I got to go see my grandchildren first.
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HAMMER: That was CNN Alina Cho with Rachel Zoe in "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT". Remember, you`ve got to check out Alina`s spectacular not to be missed special called "fashion backstage pass." You can see it this Saturday 2:30 eastern on CNN.
For tonight Cher is fired up. She`s speaking up about her transgender son getting slammed for being on "Dancing with the Stars."
CHER, SINGER: I don`t know that I would have any magic words that could make you feel more comfortable and to, you know, soothe you into not being terrified if my child dancing on "Dancing with the (bleep) stars."
HAMMER: As Cher telling Ellen, she is not backing down, tonight.
Showbiz trending tonight, the handcuff Houdini, wait until you see this. Coming up next, the amazing story of a guy who got arrested, he slipped out of his handcuffs and then he slipped right out of a police car. So, how did he do it? I bet illusionist David Copperfield can answer that. David right here for a showbiz newsmaker interview coming up.
Now, showbiz at the Emmys. The primetime Emmys just two days away and HBO boardwalk "empire" is up for outstanding drama. We caught up "Empire" star with Vincent Piazza that plays Lucky Luciano and he credits the entire crew for the quality of the show.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
VINCENT PIAZZA, STAR, EMPIRE: You know, to be a part of something from top to bottom, the quality and pedigree of the people working on it, whether it`s the set design, the hair and make-up, wardrobe, the writing, producing, the directing, the ensemble, it`s been really you feel like you`re a part of an A-team in a way. I`m just happy to be there.
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HAMMER: This is "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" on HLN news and views.
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HAMMER: Showbiz trending tonight, you got to check out this police video. This is the suspect outside of Detroit who manages to slip out of his handcuffs. Look at him go. He uses his mouth to pull the cuffs right off. He`s about halfway into his Houdini-like escape but he still has to get out of the police car. So, what he`s going to do? Let`s watch his - there he goes. He is disappearing right out of window. Walla! Where the hell (inaudible)?
Just like magic, the world`s most famous illusionist is right here to explain this amazing escape. David Copperfield, joining me in New York, it`s great to see you David. I appreciate it. How fortuitous that you`re here for this story.
DAVID COPPERFIELD, ILLUSIONIST: I know. What timing.
HAMMER: Yes. This guy`s leaves police on this three hour chase. Now, the cop who was responsible for this guy being able to escape from his car got written up for this embarrassing mistake. But as a master of illusion, how would you rate this guy`s little artist act?
COPPERFIELD: Well, actually you know I heard about this. I didn`t see the video. I heard about the story. And said hey, this is going to be really good. I mean, I could call this guy perhaps maybe he could fill in for me. He has some talent. He has some skills. I saw the video and it`s kind of a mismatch of I can`t use him as my double and I think there was some heroin in the pocket. Wasn`t that part of the story as well?
HAMMER: I don`t have that I cannot confirm that but think that would rule him out to be on -
COPPERFIELD: That causes problems, yes. But hopefully, he`s working on his jail escape.
HAMMER: Fair enough. And I know that you know magicians and illusionists, you don`t like it reveal how you get things done. But is there any advice could you give to the police to prevent such disappearing acts to happen in the future?
COPPERFIELD: On a serious note if you put the cuffs on really tight, it police brutality. So its kind, a mixed thing. You put it on loose, because obviously a little bit loser, and he had saliva involved and he was spitting on them I think. It`s a tough situation because if they`re too tight, it police brutality. If it`s to loose, I can spit on them and kind a slip out of it. So, it`s a tough decision.
HAMMER: Maybe they need to use those clamps, the white ties.
COPPERFIELD: He definitely has some skills. That`s for sure.
HAMMER: Definitely does. Well, coming from you, that`s a pretty huge compliment. David, will you please tick around. Do not disappear. Don`t make yourself vanish. We will be back with you in just a few weeks. We have to ask David about Hollywood`s hacking habits.
Now, let`s go to the showbiz wanna, that`s coming up on "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT."
Scarlett Johansson is fighting back after nude photos hers were apparently leaked online. Plus, are Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake really the latest hacking victims? They are revealing photos together reportedly leaked.
Cameron Diaz, Heidi Klum and Jessica Biel. Why are these stars being called some of the most dangerous stars out there? You have got to hear this. This is "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" on HLN news and views.
Now the showbiz news ticker, more stories from the "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" newsroom making news tonight.
TEXT: "DWTS" dancer Mark Ballas and former "Idol" contestant Pia Toscano split.
TEXT: Simon Cowell talks about his fresh start with "X Factor."
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
SIMON COWELL, JUDGE, X FACTOR: It`s a very, very different experience for me. And I like working with Paula again. I hate to admit it. It`s been fun, more fun than I`ve had in years.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Big news breaking tonight on "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT." Celebrity hacking habit. First Scar Jo, now Mila and J.T., reports their personal photos have already been leaked. Could other stars be exposed?
Plus infamous illusionist David Copperfield right here in a showbiz news maker interview. I bet Scar Jo and Mila, was he could make those leaked photos vanish?
Singing star Kristin Chenoweth, "Jersey Shore" revelations on "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT."
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: I heard where you said before that "Jersey Shore" scares you. Why is that?
KRISTIN CHENOWETH, SINGER: I can`t believe that these people are saying this. But then again I also watch "Hill Billy Hansen" so o who am I to judge?
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Plus, Kristin`s tough message for the Chaz Bono haters who think he should be booted from "Dancing with the Stars" because he`s transgender. And Cameron Diaz, Heidi Klum and Jessica Biel, are they really the most dangerous stars in the world?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: TV`s most provocative entertainment news show continues right now.
HAMMER: Welcome back to "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT." it is 30 minutes past the hour. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. We`ve got big news breaking tonight, hacking havoc. Scarlett Johansson fought back big time today after naked photos of her that were hacked from her cell phone spread around the internet like wildfire. And today, we also learned Scarlett has some unexpected company in this pretty uncomfortable situation.
"SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" can tell you Mila Kunis may have also been hacked. Brand new pictures of the "friends with Benefit" star Timberlake. They were reportedly taken her iphone. But, wait, there`s more. Justin Timberlake, who co-starred in "friends with benefits" reportedly appears in some of these pictures, let`s just say the photos are more naughty than nice. "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" Kareen Winter has been working the story all day long. Kareen joining me from Hollywood. So, what is the latest with Scarlett Johansson? What is she doing Kareen?
KAREEN WINTER, CNN CORRESPONDENT: A.J., let me tell you. Scarlett is leading the charge today. She`s fighting back against the person who hand her cell phone and linked to those embarrassing pictures of her. Here`s what we know.
The FBI is on the case telling us today they are "investigating the person or group responsible for computer intrusions of high-profile figures" though they would not confirm A.J., who the specific victims were. And Scarlett has her own lawyer on the case. We learned he sent a decease and desist letter to anyone even thinking about running the photos of her because, listen carefully, he says they are, quote, "stolen copy righted protected private photograph." So, A.J., it does seem that even though, even Scarlett, she is acknowledging here that these pictures are hers.
HAMMER: Alright. It`s the first time we actually hearing that. "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT`s" Kareen Winter. Thanks so much Kareen.
I got to say, I think it is great that Scarlett is fighting back and I really do hope for her that all those pictures that have been circulating on the web simply disappear.
Speaking of disappearance, I have the expert in the field, joining me tonight in New York, the legendary David Copperfield. David is awarded, just been awarded the magician of the century award by the society of American magicians founded by Harry Houdini. David is also appearing in the premier episode of the special called "Brain Games" on National Geographic and he`s wrote a forward to this brand new book. It`s called "Brain Woks." Terrific having you here. Congratulations on the award. That`s something else, of the century. So, two centuries a row, top magician.
COPPERFIELD: It`s very nice. It`s very flattering. Very humbling, the fact that Houdini was the president of this side of magicians and gave me this award. That is pretty cool.
HAMMER: You`ve been famous really for a very long time now. So, I`m certain that somebody who has been dealing with fame as long as have has to deal with privacy issues. Having your privacy invaded before. What do you do in a case where you`re like Scarlett Johansson and Mila Kunis had on the internet, the pictures are getting out there? How do you handle this situation?
COPPERFIELD: It`s a tough choice because you draw more attention to it by fighting back than you let it kind a go away. I think what she`s doing is the right thing. This is very smart young lady, very talented actress. You know, I think we enjoy all the technology that exists. We have our ipad. You can tell what house you`re in just by your ipad. I mean, big brother is watching us. So, everything is connected which is a great thing but it is also a very dangerous thing as well. And I think that we should start inventing kind of a vault in our phones and in our computers so we can put everything in an envelope in our phones that no one could hack. It`s going to be impossible technology.
HAMMER: You would think that. You would definitely think it what we`ve been able to do yet somehow they`re able to hack the unhackable time and time again. And it`s just continuing and the problem for somebody like Scarlett. Is this has implications for other people? Justin Timberlake reportedly in some of these pictures. We`re also hearing that Mila Kunis had photos hacked from her phone. And this again to me brings up the Showbiz golden rule David. I`m sure aware of this rule, if you are a celebrity and you take naked photos of yourself or videos, they`re going to get out.
COPPERFIELD: Pretty much.
HAMMER: Why do so many stars, not anybody but so many stars not get this? It seems fundamental.
COPPERFIELD: Well, I think we all want to have fun and enjoy ourselves and share some freedom to enjoy ourselves. And I can`t live in that kind of box. But I really, really believe - I have a question, were those things hacked by other people or were they stolen phones or things? What happened?
HAMMER: Right now this is something they`re still investigating. The FBI has gotten involved and apparently there is a group they`re looking at that has been targeting celebrities, females in particular.
COPPERFIELD: Long distance? Technology?
HAMMER: I guess it was being done in long distance.
COPPERFIELD: And there has to be away around it. Think we`re focusing technologically on having experiences that are interesting, uses satellite and stuffs. I think part of that time has to be sent on us being able to make the choice to be private by really putting those things you can take out, still have your fun but also -
HAMMER: I think once you take the picture, you`re setting yourself up. You know, let me talk about another couple right now that is interested in making themselves less private it seems. I`m talking about the former "Housewives" reality star and White House gate crasher, Tareq Salahi, who told police his wife Michaele, may have been kidnapped. Turns out she ran off with the guitarist from journey. David, as the master showman that you are, do you smell a big publicity stunt here especially given history of these guys?
COPPERFIELD: I don`t know. Maybe she`s just a small town girl living in a lonely world and taking the midnight train going everywhere.
HAMMER: Thank you, David Copperfield quoting journey for us. Thank you, David. Great to see you here.
Make sure you catch David in the premiere episode of a special called "Brain Games" on National Geographic. It airs Sunday, October 9th. And be sure to pick up your copy of "Brain Works." David wrote a forward in the book. It`s in stores of where.
Now to the big spin on the White House party crashers turned to reality TV starts, got to wonder if the Salahi`s can ever be taken seriously. Like we were taken it seriously.
With me now from Hollywood, resident spin doctor, Howard Bragman. Howard is the founder of 15 minutes public relations.
Alright, Howard, let`s get in to it. The Salahi`s former cast mate on Real housewives of D.C., Cat Ommanney is not mincing word. Wait until you here what she said "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT." It is her response today to the latest on the Salahi`s saga.
She said I`m currently doing a photo shoot for internationally acclaimed photographer Greg Lotus so I wouldn`t be missing that for anyone let alone be more Salami BS. Tarek and Michaele are equally as delusional as each other. I know that unfortunately from first hand experience their form of reality has cost people their jobs, their reputations and more therapy sessions than I dare to imagine. Maybe she just couldn`t stomach another day of the worst body odor known to mankind. Who knows? Who cares? Thank God the FBI had more sense than to spend more taxpayer money looking for her anywhere other Journey`s tour bus. Good luck with that journey.
A little direct there. Nicely said. Is there any way the Salahi`s can spin this into something positive? Howard, spin it within a minute for us.
HOWARD BRAGMAN, FOUNDER, FIFTEEN MINUTES PUBLIC RELATIONS: A.J., I wrote a book and in the book I have the 10 commandments, the number one rule, all press` not good for us. Clearly the Salahi`s did not read my book. You know, I honestly, I believe there`s a psychological issue going on. I think they`re kind of addicted to publicity and I see it a lot. They think that all press is good press but you know they are always wore a punch line than becoming more of a punch line. And what that means is you may get the news for a day or so, as they`ve done in the last few hours. But the truth is, you can never monetize it. Nobody wants to use you for an endorsement. Nobody wants to put you on the show. And the next time you get in the news, it has to be even more outrageous than any of us can imagine. What`s more outrageous than what` they`ve done already, A.J.
HAMMER: No, I don`t think so, Howard and I agree with you. I don`t think anybody will be banging down their door to sign them up for anything.
So Howard, what is your bottom line for the Salahi`s in this situation?
BRAGMAN: To paraphrase my friend, Forrest Gump, "crazy is, a crazy does," A.J.
HAMMER: Well said, Howard. Howard Bragman, thank you so much.
Music Legend Cher stands up for her transgender son Chaz. She`s taking on all the haters who say she should be banned from "Dancing with the Stars."
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
CHER, SINGER: I don`t know that I would have any magic words that could make you feel more comfortable and to, you know, soothe you into not being terrified if my child dancing on "Dancing with the (bleep) stars."
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Cher is not backing down.
And another big singing star also defending Chaz tonight. Kristin Chenoweth with is got Chaz`s back.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
CHENOWETH: You know what it is? It`s fear. I think people are fear for what they don`t understand. And all I can say is, can you imagine feeling that you were born in the wrong body?
(END VIDEO CLIP)
Kristin Chenoweth tells me why being a good Christian means standing up for gay and transgender rights. You got to see this on "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" on HLN news and views.
Here comes the showbiz news ticker, more stories from the "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" newsroom making news tonight.
TEXT: Kate Middleton, J.Lo and Jennifer Lopez make People Magazine best dressed list.
TEXT: Jonah Hill reveals the story behind his dramatic weight loss.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
JONAH HILL, ACTOR: Just wanted to be healthier, simple as that. And saw a nutritionist and started running, doing a lot of push ups, and sit ups and stuff. And that`s basically it. I wish there was a more complicated thing I could tell you.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
CHER: Those are such feelings of hostility and fear that I don`t know that I would have any magic words that could make you feel more comfortable and to, you know, soothe you into not being terrified if my child dances on dancing with the (bleep) stars.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: The great Cher surprising her son Chaz Bono on the "Ellen DeGeneres Show", striking back at all those haters who say Chaz should be boycotted on "Dancing with the Stars" because he`s transgender and she`s not the only star who has defending chance for that.
Welcome back to "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT." I`m A.J. Hammer in New York.
Tonight Kristin`s big stand. One of my favorite stars Kristin Chenoweth getting a lot of heat for being good Christian and standing up for gay rights. Kristin is a star in ABC`s upcoming show, "Good Kristin Bells". And she got a fantastic new album out called "some lessons learned." Tonight, our band new showbiz news maker interview, Kristin reveals to me her fury over the Chaz Bono controversy and about getting slammed for standing up for the gay community.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: I remember after you called out "Newsweek" for an article they wrote about the show you are doing with Sean Hayes saying his sexuality as a gay man distracted from the fact he was playing a straight character in the show. And dwelt with a lot.
But recently here`s something that you told the advocate and this is great.
"I don`t judge you for your opinion so please don`t judge me for mine. I read my bible and I pray and all that. I really do but at the same time I don`t think being gay is a sin period."
Have you had some response after saying that? I`m not talking about the support of response. Have people come back at you saying they don`t jive?
CHENOWETH: Yes. Yes. Yes, I have. Basically read your bible again, those kinds of comments. Again, I don`t judge them. This is just what I believe. This is what I believe in my heart of hearts. I don`t think I`m wrong but somebody else might.
HAMMER: So, what else can you say to people, though, to open up their minds because this has been a very hot button issue?
CHENOWETH: This is what I always say, A.J., and it`s very simple. I`m 4`11" and that`s the way good put me together. And if he made me -if he made somebody gay, somebody`s gay, that`s the way he put them together. And I don`t think that - God doesn`t make junk. That`s what I believe.
HAMMER: Good response. A lot has been made as you well know of Chaz Bono doing "Dancing with the Stars." Do you get why people are so upset?
CHENOWETH: No.
HAMMER: Does it come back to that high morality or religion or what is it for you?
CHENOWETH: You know what it is? It`s fear. I think people are fearful what they don`t understand. All I can say is can you imagine feeling that you were born in the wrong body? Can we just talk about that for a second? What a transgendered person goes through? And then to have to tell their family and friends, guess what? I`m going to go through this and to finally get to where they feel the way they were born and have the public trash them, that`s not my job. That`s not my position. I want to love people and accept them for who they are.
HAMMER: And I think it`s a huge thing that ABC and "Dancing with the Stars" has done putting Chaz on. I think people are going to have their minds open. People are going to say he`s just a guy like all of us.
CHENOWETH: And if he can`t dance, then I`ll judge him.
HAMMER: Right. That`s going to be the issue. That`s what Nancy Grace`s said. The quote from Nancy Grace I don`t care what`s in his pants, I just care what`s in his shoes.
CHENOWETH: I love you, Nancy.
HAMMER: Now, here`s the thing. It seems to me you`d be perfect for "Dancing with the Stars." They have to have asked you to do the show, haven`t they?
CHENOWETH: They never have. But you know that`s OK because I really am a singer and actor. And I`m so blessed to have a lot of different opportunities.
HAMMER: But you would do it, right?
CHENOWETH: I don`t know. I mean, I don`t know. I mean I guess if the opportunity presented itself, who knows.
HAMMER: I think it could be great fun for you.
CHENOWETH: Right now I`m employed by ABC and so I love that.
HAMMER: Now, while we`re talking about reality television, I`ve heard where you said before that "Jersey Shore" scares you. Why is that?
CHENOWETH: I can`t believe that these people are saying this. But then again I also watch "Hill Billies" so who am I to judge? I love "Toddlers and Tiaras," it rocks my world. Real housewives of any county, so I guess it`s just what your taste is.
HAMMER: Now, I`ve never been shy that "Glee" is one of my favorite shows.
CHENOWETH: And we love you for it.
HAMMER: Ever, I mean we talked about how much we loved you on "West Wing" and that was one of my favorite shows. Are you going to be back on "Glee"?
CHENOWETH: You know people ask me that. I say, ask Ryan Murphy. If I was the boss, sure, I`d do that. But -
BRAGMAN: It was fun doing that show.
CHENOWETH: You know, she`s just a hot mess and she so fun to play. I don`t know why the thought of me for a dunk has been person but I`m glad they did.
HAMMER: Well, it does seem rather polar opposite from how I know you to be. So, I imagine you know it has to be a great deal of fun to play.
Alright, here`s a question, because I know you`re a big fan of the tweeting. Demi Moore, also a big fan of the tweeting.
CHENOWETH: Yes.
HAMMER: She just posted - do we have this photo? She just poster this twitter pic of herself naked
CHENOWETH: Oh, no. Had she taken ambien or had a drink?
HAMMER: Not that I`m aware of.
CHENOWETH: Oh, Demi.
HAMMER: I was going to ask for your response but I think I got it.
CHENOWETH: You know what? We`ve all done things we regret. Maybe, she doesn`t.
HAMMER: No, she`s proud.
CHENOWETH: If I look like her at that age, I`d be proud.
HAMMER: Excuse me! Excuse me! Kristin Chenoweth, with some lessons learned. It`s a terrific album and I congratulate you on its release.
CHENOWETH: Thank you so much, A.J.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: How great is Kristin Chenoweth. I just love her. I always enjoy speaking with her, so very cool. I cannot wait to see her brand new show it`s called "Good Christian Belles "look for an ABC this fall. And you have to pick up her new album, this is it. "Some Lessons Learned." And it happens to be out right now.
Cameron Diaz, Heidi Klum and Jessica Biel. Why some people are saying these are the most dangerous stars out there, that is next.
And now the showbiz news ticker, more stories from the "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" newsroom making news tonight.
TEXT: Jazz vocalist Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. wins "America`s got Talent" and STM.
TEXT: Paula Abdul reveals her "wacky Chemistry" with Simon Cowell on "X Factor."
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
PAULA ABDUL, SINGER: The reason why he laughs so much is because he knows that I know him so well. When I start telling him what he`s going to say, he starts laughing because he knows.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Time for the showbiz buzz list. The things we cannot stop bussing about this week. We just love fashion week. It was here all week long in New York City. We got a great first look at all the new spring styles already. We`re buzzing about the big return of "it`s always sunny if Philadelphia" season seven started tonight.
We`re psyched about the brand new book "hot property" from the stars of selling New York.
We`re also jamming to "own the night," this is lady Antebellum`s great new album, you`ve got to check this out.
And it`s hammer time. Summer smash "thor" out this week on Blu-ray.
This is "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" on HLN news and views.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Now a showbiz Special Reports. Its stars and cars. "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" has teamed up with our friends at CNNmoney.com to reveal what some of the biggest stars are driving. I happen to be a big car guy myself. I got to say, I was actually pretty surprised about what you can find in these stars` garages. Take a look.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
TONY DOVOLANI, DANCING WITH THE STARS: I love Porsches. I have two. I also have a van because I have three kids. That`s the one the wifey drives. No, I love Porsches. No, I love Porches. I have a Cayanne S, the new one with completely souped up and my favorite is my Carrera convertible. I can tell you everything there is to know about that.
MAKSIM CHMERKOVSKIY, DANCING WITH THE STARS: He can take it apart, put it back together. It`s white, which I frowned upon but whatever.
AMAR`E SOUDEMIRE, NEW YORK KNICKS: I have about five cars. I have a family coup, a super sport, I have a Lamborghini Gallardo. I have an Audi 27. My every day car is my Bentley. I think it`s intriguing. You know, we buy cars made for the ladies.
PERRY REEVES, ENTOURAGE: I have a Mercedes Unimog. It`s a giant war vehicle.
DAX SHEPARD, OUTRUN: I have a 1967 Lincoln continental with suicide doors with a 700 horse power engine.
SHAWN MARION, DALLAS MAVERICKS: I have like, ten cars. California Ferrari, Maserati (ph), Porsche Penamera, Camaro, 71 Cutlass, `70 Chevelle, `66 Lincoln, that`s the few of them. I just love cars.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Men, Shawn Marion must have some garage and gas ville.
Got to thank Bentley, BMW, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ferrari, Lincoln, my Box, Mercedes, Porsche and Yamaha for getting us those fantastic pictures.
Well, coming up next. So, who are some people saying are the most dangerous stars out there? Why Cameron Diaz, Heidi Klum and Jessica Biel are all on this list? Find out who tops it next.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Tonight the most dangerous celebrities online. You got to listen to this. A brand new survey released by internet security company MacAfee is revealing the most risky stars to search for. Number one on the danger list is Heidi Klum. Turns out that hackers use her image more than any celebrities to lure to you to bogus sites where they can steal your personal information.
Cameron Diaz, number two on the list. Loads of sites with her image are loaded with malicious software viruses. Others on the list, Jessica Biel, Katherine Heigl. And Brad Pitt is the only dude. So, watch out.
That is it for "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT." Thanks for watching. I`m A.J. hammer in New York. You can always catch "SHOWBIZ TONIGHT" exclusively Monday to Friday at 11:00 p.m. Eastern and pacific and of course that`s right here on HLN.
Stay right here for Doctor Drew coming up next.
Tonight the millionaire murder trial, the bizarre behavior of the of the millionaire accused of murdering his wife. Doctor Drew starts right now on HLN.
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