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Showbiz Tonight
Nancy Grace`s New TV Movie; Simon Cowell`s Unauthorized Biography; Age Defying in Hollywood; "American Idol" Secrets Revealed
Aired April 27, 2012 - 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: Big news breaking tonight on "Showbiz Tonight." Nancy Grace breaks big news to "Showbiz Tonight" about her brand new movie based on her debut novel.
Plus, the HLN host reveals which celebrity will be in the starring role.
Tonight Nancy Grace`s jaw-dropping revelation only to "Showbiz Tonight" in a must-see headline making newsmaker interview.
Rihanna`s famed confessions. The R&B`s superstar`s dramatic revelations about life after fame to "Showbiz Tonight."
RIHANNA, SINGER: I didn`t appreciate people having (INAUDIBLE) of me.
HAMMER: "Showbiz Tonight" goes one on one with Rihanna. Does the famous singer wish she wasn`t famous at all?
They`re back. A Showbiz first look at Snooki and Jwoww`s brand new "Jersey Shore" spin off. J-Woww`s new life with a pregnant Snooki. Tonight, will Snooki`s new baby reality be a shore hit?
TV`s most provocative entertainment news show breaks news right now.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Hello. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Thank you for watching tonight. We are bringing you big breaking news with Nancy Grace. Hi, friend.
NANCY GRACE: Hello, friend, how are you?
HAMMER: I am fantastic. It`s great to see you. There is the news that we got today that the lovely Jenny Garth of "Beverly Hills 90210" fame is going to be starring in a TV movie based on your best selling book, Nancy. I cannot wait to hear the untold story about that.
But first we have to begin tonight with this bombshell news today in the Trayvon Martin case. Now we all remember last week George Zimmerman asked for and got a low bail of about $150,000 after being charged with killing the Florida teenager. That was after basically telling the court he didn`t have a lot of money.
Well, there was shock and awe today after his attorney revealed that Zimmerman is sitting on top of $200,000. Thanks to donations that he got from a website had he set up. Zimmerman`s attorney just appeared on CNN`s "AC 360" and told Anderson Cooper he was just as shocked as we are. Watch.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
MARK O`MARA, ATTORNEY FOR GEORGE ZIMMERMAN: In talking to George after I was trying to shut down his full internet presence because of some impersonators and other problems with Twitter and Facebook, he asked me what to do with his Paypal accounts. And I asked him what he was talking about. He said those are the accounts that had the money from the Website that he had and that there was $204,000 that had come in to date.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Two hundred grand. Holy smokes. Nancy, were you as shocked as everyone else when you heard that?
GRACE: Yes. I was very, very surprised. Now listen. You got to take whatever any lawyer says with a box of salt. Not a grain, but a box. So, you know, let`s just keep that in mind. This guy, O`Mara, is going to say whatever it takes to defend his client. All right. So don`t hold him to a truth test when he`s on TV. He`s not in a courtroom.
As far as the bond, let me reiterate. Lady justice is blind regardless to the sex, the ethnicity, the background, the race, the whatever, the age, and the financial status of every defendant. So he`s not going to get a lower or higher bond on this case - or he shouldn`t because he is broke or because he`s rich. The bond is set on other factors such as the severity of the crime, whether you`re going to flee the jurisdiction, are you going to tamper with witnesses, are you a danger to yourself or the community. Issues like that come into play when setting bond. Not do you have money in your Paypal account.
So frankly, that`s really not an issue. If he had declared indigency, and was using taxpayer`s money, now that would be a big problem because you have to fill out a form whereby you swear as to how much money you have.
HAMMER: Got it. All right. So you don`t feel that he necessarily pulled a fast one on the court -
GRACE: I didn`t say that!
HAMMER: All right.
GRACE: But I said the financial status should not be an indicator as to bond.
HAMMER: OK.
GRACE: Because that would set up a two-tier justice system - you know, we give different people charged with the same crime a different bond amount. That`s not right.
HAMMER: No. That`s not right at all. And listen, it`s no surprise, Trayvon`s parents not happy at all. This morning their attorney just flat- out accused Zimmerman of lying to score a low bail which you said can`t be done but they want it revoked. Let`s watch what happened.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
BENJAMIN CRUMP, ATTORNEY FOR TRAYVON MARTIN`S FAMILY: We are emphatically saying that his silence was an indication of untruth. When he heard the testimony that he had no money, that he had no money raised in this Web site, he knew what the crux of the matter was at that bond hearing and he, like his apology, was insincere and his silence as well as what he said to the court.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: OK. Strong words here, Nancy. Listen, no question they are furious nut let me float this showbiz flash point by you. It`s not about what the rate of the bond should be but do you think George Zimmerman`s bail, bond, whatever it is should be revoked entirely?
GRACE: Well, my emotions in the case do not get in the way of my legal analysis and my legal analysis is that that is not grounds for a bond revocation. Whether I think he lied or didn`t lie has nothing to do with whether he will have his bond revoked. Whether he lied under oath is an issue for a perjury charge, not for a bond revocation. Again, you look at several factors as to setting the bond. I`m telling you the law. Whether anybody likes it or not. (INAUDIBLE) the jurisdiction, danger to yourself or the community, will you tamper with witnesses, severity of the crime. That`s what the judge is looking at.
HAMMER: Right. OK. Well, we count on to you keep it straight for us, Nancy. But right now, I want to get to the big news breaking tonight. All about you and your amazing best-selling debut novel, "The Eleventh Victim," available on paperback right now. it is being turned into a lifetime TV movie. I was so pleased when I saw this news breaking. And we just learned the terrific news, in my opinion, Jennie Garth, long time star of "Beverly Hills 90210" has been cast to star in the movie. That is awesome. Now, Nancy, I know you`re also executive producing the film, tell us the inside story of how that happened. I think this is all great.
GRACE: Oh man. Let me tell you something. Here`s a real peep on that story. When I left the courtroom as a felony prosecutor and crime victim advocate, I moved to New York to start a show with Johnnie Cochran and I did that because the elected D.A. was retiring and I thought I was going to get fired. So I took an offer from "Court TV." Thank God. I was in New York, all alone, broke. I would order one avocado role for sushi, water and a salad. I was so broke. And I would be alone all the time. I started writing this book. I wrote "Eleventh Victim" over 10 years.
When I was out in L.A. doing "Dancing with the Stars," I was approached then in person but had been approached before that by Lifetime on the movie. I didn`t really think it would ever happen. Things like that happen to other people. Not me.
HAMMER: Right.
GRACE: And so I`m just overwhelmed with the blessing.
HAMMER: Well, it`s terrific and I think it`s going to be a great film, particularly that you have Jennie. I want to show you something.
GRACE: Man, tell it.
HAMMER: Let`s put it up, Charles.
There you have, you on the left, of course. On the right there`s Jennie Garth. And I can see, the resemblance there. Besides that resemblance, I want to know Nancy, what makes Jennie Garth a good place to play a pseudo Nancy Grace and will she do the accent?
GRACE: Well, you know, I got to remember - this is Haley Dean, not Nancy Grace who is the star of the "Eleventh Victim."
HAMMER: I understand. But based on your life story.
GRACE: Well, here`s the deal on Jennie Garth. Of course she`s a superstar in the TV world, number one. Everybody know about her on 90210. But what a lot of people don`t know is that she is a mother of three. She spends so much time raising her children. She`s got so much heart. Not only is she a great actress but she`s got so much heart, so when they approached me with 20 to 30 actresses, she was my number one pick.
HAMMER: Wow. Can you tell us who was also in the running? Can you mention a couple of names? I`m just curious. I love the choice.
GRACE: No. I asked for this really handsome guy to be the villain?
HAMMER: And?
GRACE: What`s his name? A.J. Hammer.
HAMMER: Yes, what happened there.
GRACE: To be the villain -
HAMMER: And -
GRACE: Actually, we haven`t finished casting yet so there is still a possibility.
HAMMER: All right. Let me check my e-mail. No, my agent hasn`t contacted me yet, Nancy. But I look forward to that. All right. It`s always good to see you. Have a terrific weekend. Nancy Grace, host of HLN`s "Nancy Grace."
GRACE: Thank you.
HAMMER: And now executive producer of an upcoming Lifetime movie based on her novel "The Eleventh Victim" available on paperback. Always great to see you.
And we have more Hollywood secrets revealed tonight. Is Simon Cowell obsessed with his looks? Does he despise J. Lo. Tonight, I`ve go the man who wrote the unauthorized biography on Simon Cowell to reveal Simon`s secrets in a must-see showbiz newsmaker interview.
And an "American Idol" insider, so should "Idol" judges really be able to over power America`s votes. "Idol" judge Randy Jackson tells all in a must- see showbiz maker interview.
Rihanna`s showbiz showdown.
One thing that makes me nuts - and it involves Rihanna.
You were going to set the record straight on something that I get in fights with people all the time. When you introduce yourself to me all those years ago because you almost didn`t expect people to know who you were. You said, Rihanna.
RIHANNA: I knew that was the question.
HAMMER: Tonight Rihanna reveals the big mystery surrounding her name.
This is "Showbiz Tonight" on HLN news and views.
Here`s your Showbiz news ticker. These are more stories from the "Showbiz Tonight" newsroom making news tonight.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
ARSENIO HALL: I was in New York for two months saying I wanted to be the next Piers Morgan. And now I`m sitting with Dr. Phil in his backyard every single day. Because that show will make you nuts.
The bottom line is it is the hardest and most rewarding experience I`ve ever had.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Welcome back to "Showbiz Tonight." I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Tonight, Simon`s secrets. There are stunning new revelations tonight about America`s most beloved and hated TV judge, Simon Cowell.
The world, of course, knows him as the grumpy British judge who pulls no punches but it is what we didn`t know about Cowell until now anyway that has everybody talking from his love of botox to his trouble romances.
Tonight "Showbiz" reveals the inside story. I spoke with Tom Bower, author of the unauthorized biography on Simon Cowell. It`s called "Sweet Revenge The Intimate Life of Simon Cowell," set to be in stores on May 1st. I asked if Simon is truly a grumpy guy or if it`s just an act that he stumbled upon to help build his empire?
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
TOM BOWER, AUTHOR: Oh, no, no. He can be very grumpy and as one music producer who has worked with him said to me "Simon can in three words destroy 10 months` work." He has always been able to do the big quick rejection which is actually going to deflate someone`s ego, because in the end, Simon believes in himself, and that is why he succeeded despite years of humiliation and failure and he always believed that he is going to be the best, and now he is acting it out.
HAMMER: Yes, he has gotten to prove it to everybody, particularly himself. And so many surprises, by the way, tucked away in your book. Everybody is already buzzing, because you reveal that Simon is not a fan of Jennifer Lopez. I was not aware of this. You say that he can`t stand her. So, set the record straight for us, Tom, what is his beef with J. Lo?
BOWER: Well, he just found her just too vain and too self-interested which seems like he met his own match, but in the end, Simon does not really like many celebrities. I noticed when I went with him to the "Oprah Winfrey Show" and many other places around Hollywood and elsewhere, he is a rather shy guy. He is always afraid of being associated with people who are bigger than him or who might put him in the shade, but in end, he is pretty critical of people. He does not like Elton John. He does not like many of the people who are really famous in the music business.
HAMMER: So he is not fond of all of those people, but he has certainly had an eye for some of the female judges who have sat by his side on the shows other than J. Lo bringing about some headline-making romances, and in an all new survey this month, he was voted the world`s best boyfriend and this really surprised me. He actually beat out Prince Harry. So if Simon is such a great catch, why hasn`t he settled down yet?
BOWER: Well, the thing about Simon is he can be charming. He is very generous and he loves fun, but he goes for women who are uninhibited, uncomplicated, a bit trashy and can make him laugh and he can make them laugh, too. The catch is that he gets very easily bored. All of the women I met through him or who he has cast aside just say that there comes a stage when he kicks them out. And they don`t like it, but that is the way he operates. So he is not going to marry, and he is just going to carry on like the big boy who is having fun.
HAMMER: But you know, it works out pretty well for some of his exs. I`m talking about some remarkable parting gifts that he has imparted to them. He recently reportedly sent one packing with an $8 million mansion and another with a $5 million mansion. I`m thinking what a way to end a relationship. Tom, is that guilt money or does he do it simply because he can?
BOWER: He is guilt ridden. And because he can, and maybe a little hush money, and he does not want them to kiss and tell, but the thing about Simon is he keeps his old girlfriends as permanent friends. He likes calling them up right through the night. He likes knowing that they are there when he wants them, and then he can cast them aside when he does not want them, and so they feel dependent on him, and they like looking after them, and he likes being looked after. But in the end, he is pretty unfaithful. I mean that is the nub of it all. None of them are guaranteed his full time attention, and they take him on his terms.
HAMMER: Yes. I think the only one guaranteed Simon`s full time attention is Simon, himself.
BOWER: Exactly.
HAMMER: Now if we can put up an image right here of the Simon we all know - let`s look at Simon. There he is. That is his standard look in the black t- shirt, and he tells it like it is. Frankly he seems like he just couldn`t care less about what other people think of him, and you sort of get that image of him, but in your book, Tom, you paint him as just the opposite actually, and you paint him as this guy who is absolutely obsessed with his looks, and that doesn`t really make sense, because it kind of flies in the face of how he thinks we see him.
BOWER: Well, he thinks - he`s obsessed by his looks, and he is obsessed by staying young. He is really very worried about getting ill, so he powers himself of vitamins and vitamin drips and also some surgery and colonic irrigation, and of course, botox and surgery, that sort of thing, but I looked through his cupboards, in his closets, in his bedroom and dressing rooms and it is just filled with all of the same clothes. He has got 100 pairs of jeans all the same and the same t-shirts and the same suits. He just likes wearing the same clothes like he likes eating the same food. He is a man of habit.
But he really, I mean, he thinks he eats these exotic fruit smoothies and he does everything that you can imagine to keep young and look good, because he is worried about getting old.
HAMMER: Vitamins, fruit smoothies, healthy eating and he shoots poison into his head. There is your Simon Cowell right there. Tom Bower, it is fascinating and thank you very much for joining us. I really appreciate it.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Tonight. Age against the Hollywood machine. Is Hollywood really duking it out for older women?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: There was an audience out there that definitely is waiting to be told stories about women of a certain age. There was a great lack of story telling for us but we didn`t understand the extent to which this would connect with our viewers.
HAMMER: Tonight, "Showbiz" investigates the mystery behind the mega stars who are defying the age-old logic in Hollywood.
"Idol" secrets revealed by the dog himself Randy Jackson. So what really happened the night the judges saved Jessica Sanchez and should the judges be able to overpower America`s vote? Well, "the dog," Randy Jackson is right here in the house from (INAUDIBLE) "Showbiz" newsmaker interview.
"Showbiz Tonight" HLN News and views.
Here`s the "Showbiz" news ticker. These are more stories from the "Showbiz Tonight" newsroom making news tonight.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
CHRIS ROCK, COMEDIAN: I think the president is hysterical and, you know, in five years after he`s out of office, I think he`s going to have a great career in comedy.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Well, Beyonce`s certainly having her best week ever. The new mom was just named "People`s" most beautiful person for 2012. Tonight "Showbiz Tonight" has your exclusive look at reputation.com`s weekly scorecard of who`s up and who`s down. It`s all determined by online and social media buzz.
Joining me tonight in New York for the Reputation (INAUDIBLE) Reputation.com`s vice chairman, Howard Bragman. And Howard, what a year it has been for Beyonce. We aren`t even half-way through this thing yet, already - look, we know that she is a gorgeous woman but how much did her new most beautiful title help boost her rep this week?
HOWARD BRAGMAN, VICE CHAIRMAN, REPUTATION.COM: It was crazy. It was three times. She`s always got a huge buzz. For her to go up three times is just astronomical. She was in the top three for the week of all celebrities talked about online. It was 70 percent positive. We`re not ever 70 percent positive about anything in this country.
HAMMER: No, we`re not and it`s nice to see. I`m guessing that she probably never has any real anything negative drops at all. It`s going to drop next week by virtue of the fact that the magazine -
BRAGMAN: Yes, (INAUDIBLE) stay high but the sheer amount of buzz goes down but she said something really smart. She said "the baby made me more beautiful." And everybody loved that. That`s good for (INAUDIBLE). Come on.
HAMMER: So she`s up. Rosie O`Donnell down. And this doesn`t surprise me. She lashed out about Lindsay Lohan taking on the role of Elizabeth Taylor and that cannot have helped Rosie this week.
BRAGMAN: No, Rosie was down. She is tracking about 68 percent negative, multiple increase. But you know what? I think she will be vindicated when we see Lindsey Lohan in this movie.
HAMMER: Oh come on, Howard. No, no, how did Lindsey`s rep do? Did you pay attention to that this week?
BRAGMAN: Yes, there was a lot. It was very mixed. It was up but it was very mixed. Just wait until the pictures come out. I mean we would talk about this down the road. I think there are some mistakes being made here. OK.
HAMMER: Howard, when did you become so cynical? You were the non cynical publicist. Howard, it`s great to see you as always. Reputation.com`s vice chairman, Howard Bragman. Thank you, sir.
BRAGMAN: (INAUDIBLE).
HAMMER: The "Showbiz" lineup, coming up at the bottom of the hour on "Showbiz Tonight." Age against Hollywood machine. Tonight the mega stars who are defying the able old logic in Hollywood.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: We knew that there was an audience out there definitely waiting to be told stories about women of a certain age. There was great lack of storytelling for us. We didn`t understand the extent to which this would connect with our viewers.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
HAMMER: Tonight, why Hollywood is battling it out for stars of a certain age.
And a Kardashian freak-out. Wait until you see this. Tonight Kourtney Kardashian reveals her frightening pregnancy panic attack. I`m going to tell you exactly what happened that actually left Kourtney feeling trapped in her own body. This is "Showbiz Tonight" on HLN news and views.
It is time now to roll our the "Showbiz" news ticker. Here comes more stories from the "Showbiz Tonight" newsroom, making news tonight.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
HAMMER: Big news breaking tonight on "Showbiz Tonight."
Age against the machine. Tonight the baby boomer actresses that are taking over TV. Is Hollywood finally realizing women over 40 can mean big bucks for the studios?
"American Idol" secrets exposed. An explosive "Showbiz Tonight" newsmaker interview. Was that wild night that judges took over the show actually real? "Idol" judge Randy Jackson is here answering the questions you`ve always wanted to ask about "Idol."
Rihanna sets the record straight on her name.
You were going to set the record straight on something that I get in fights with people all the time. When you introduced yourself to me all those years ago because you almost didn`t expect people to know who you were. You said Rihanna.
RIHANNA: (INAUDIBLE) the question.
HAMMER: Have you been saying her name wrong? All these years.
Tonight the great name debate comes to an end. Once and for all.
ANNOUNCER: TV`s most provocative entertainment news show continues right now.
HAMMER: Welcome back to "Showbiz Tonight." Thank you for watching. It is 30 minutes past the hour. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York with big news breaking today.
Age against the machine. Tonight a special "Showbiz Tonight" investigation into the baby boom actresses that are taking over TV. Yes, that`s right. After decades of being sidelined, women over 40 finally seem to be getting their due in Hollywood. More and more older actresses are getting bigger and bigger roles and bigger paychecks on TV`s hottest shows.
So the question is, is 50 the new 20? "Showbiz Tonight`s" Michelle Turner is uncovering the real story in a surprising "Showbiz Tonight" investigation.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I`ll see you in court.
MICHELLE TURNER: Angelica Houston.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I`d soon look into a mirror and watch my teeth rot.
TURNER: Kathy Bates. Jessica Lange.
If you`re looking to watch these Oscar-winning actresses turn on your TV. While the film industry has historically ignored women over 40, these days the television industry seems to be embracing them. From NBC`s "Smash" and "Harry`s Law" to Showtime`s "Nurse Jackie" and "The Big C." TV`s current trend -- baby boomer women in big roles.
MAGGIE FURLONG, HUFFPOST TV: TV is filling the gap where movie sort of let these actresses fall off. I feel like older actresses in Hollywood sort of aren`t getting the roles they want in movies anymore. I feel like TV realized it.
TURNER: Maggie Furlong is a TV industry observer for the "Huffington Post." She says rolling out the welcome mat for Hollywood`s baby boomer women is a strategic decision on the part of TV execs.
FURLONG: The female demo is something every single network want and so why not make these fabulous actresses lead the television shows, why not put these great female writers, these great female show runners, these great executive producers, put them all on a show with a strong female lead and have strong female characters on TV.
TURNER: TV land`s "Hot in Cleveland" stars four women all over the age of 50. The cast says shows like theirs are overdue.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: We knew that there was an audience out there that definitely was waiting to be told stories about women of a certain able. There was a great lack of storytelling for us but we didn`t understand the extent to which this would connect with our viewers. We are sort of here to remind women that there`s no expiration date on being fabulous.
TURNER: Fabulous and funny. "Hot in Cleveland" has been a hit with viewers and critics alike.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: There is no age range for funny. Funny is funny. And if you watch the show and if you watch the show, it is going to make you laugh. It doesn`t matter how old the characters are. They`re just funny.
TURNER: Hollywood is taking notice and the popularity of baby boomer women and their stories on the small screen and in time that may translate to more boomers on the big screen.
FURLONG: Movies take a long time to get made. It may be another year or two before we see start to see more female driven comedies, more female driven dramas, just more women in movies because it takes that long to get things done. I hope Hollywood continues to catch on but I think in the meantime TV is a great great place for women to be.
TURNER: And given the current success of all these women, viewers seem to agree.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: I got to think Hollywood`s definitely going to catch on this new trend. A truly fascinating "Showbiz" investigation there from Michelle Turner.
Well, tonight I`ve got your "Showbiz" first look at the Snooki-j.Woww spin- off. The self-proclaimed (INAUDIBLE) of the hit reality show are now taking their fist pumping ways to a bachelorette pad in Jersey City. That`s right. We`ve all heard about Snooki and J-Woww`s new spin-off from "Jersey Shore" and we have wondered what had surprises the ladies have in store for us.
Well, the wait is now over. I`m here to tell you "Showbiz Tonight" with a brand-new preview of the spin-off and it looks like everything we could have possibly imagined. Lots of laughs, some shocking revelations and of course a Snooki baby bump. Take a look.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Ever since we met each other - hello! Party`s here!
Jenny has been my best friend. She can lift my spirits at the drop of a hat.
Smell my finger.
I think we should go look for apartments tomorrow. The fact that we`re both ready to make this commitment is really exciting.
You look pale.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Oh, wow!
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Holy (INAUDIBLE).
This is huge! We`re going to take it! I really need to tell you something. I`m pregnant. And engaged.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: How did this happen?
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Sex.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I am moving in with a pregnant engaged Snooki.
Honestly, I really didn`t know that I could make a baby. So the fact that I can reproduce is very scary.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I`m very happy for you.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: (INAUDIBLE)
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Not rocket science.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Easy. Oh my god, girl. Jesus, are you serious right now.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Why do people have clutches. It`s too much work.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Because not everybody is like you. Thank god.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Oh my god. What are you doing.
Jenny is my best friend. Like I would die for you.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Yes, 100 percent. I would take a bullet for you.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: But let`s make sure that doesn`t happen.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Me and jenny have the rest our lives to stick our heads up (INAUDIBLE) asses. I think right now is the primetime for us to be together to just enjoy life as best friends.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Yes, that line (INAUDIBLE) I didn`t even know I could make a baby. Looks like we`re going to be seeing a different side of the "Jersey Shore" party girls. The season premier of Snooki and J.Wow airs June 21st on MTV. And I can`t wait.
Tonight, everything you wanted to know about "Idol." I had a one on one with Randy Jackson. Does he think it`s fair the judges can reverse America`s vote. Randy Jackson right here for a must see "Showbiz" newsmaker interview revealing all the "Idol" secrets you want to know.
Rihanna`s "Showbiz" showdown. It`s one thing that makes me nuts involving Rihanna.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: You were going to set the record straight on something that I get in fight with people all the time. When you introduced yourself to me all those years ago because you almost didn`t expect people to know who you were, you said Rihanna.
RIHANNA: I knew this was the question.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Tonight we set the record straight once and for all about the mystery surrounding the superstar singer`s name.
This is "Showbiz Tonight" on HLN news and views.
This is the "Showbiz" news ticker, more stories from the "Showbiz Tonight" newsroom making news tonight.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I slipped and hit my head in the bathroom. Who am I?
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: You`re my boyfriend. We were going (INAUDIBLE) high school with.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
(MUSIC PLAYING)
HAMMER: And then there were five. It was the end of the road for Elise Testone last night on "American Idol" after getting the boot, she sang Zeppelin`s "Whole Lotta Love" and I can tell you the judges certainly showed her a whole lotta of love on her way out.
Welcome back to "Showbiz Tonight." I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Well, one of those judges sang farewell to Elise was "Idol" original Randy Jackson. Randy has been part of all of the stunning twists and turns on this season of "Idol" from the shocking return and then sudden elimination of Germaine Jones to the judge`s dramatic save of front-runner Jessica Sanchez after she was voted off by America. Hard to believe but in a mere four weeks an all new "Idol" winner will take the crown, setting the stage for a new voice at the top of the charts.
Tonight "Showbiz Tonight" is getting answers to the burning questions everybody wants answered about this wild "Idol" season. I went one on one with the judge right in the center of all the action, music veteran and Grammy award winning producer Randy Jackson.
Randy is also the new spokesperson for Taking Diabetes to Heart campaign.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
HAMMER: Always great to see you, Randy.
RANDY JACKSON, MUSIC PRODUCER, "IDOL" JUDGE: What`s going on A.J.? How you be man?
HAMMER: I`m good. I`m good. A lot of talk about "American Idol" this season. The buzz is still going so strong about your show but particularly Randy, we must talk about this - the big shake-up on "Idol" two weeks ago. You and your fellow judges used your one save of the season for Jessica Sanchez. Now we`re taking a look at what happened right now. As we watch the video again, I got to know, Randy, when you guys got up there and stormed the stage, was any of that for show or was it all truly a spontaneous moment?
JACKSON: No. I call "Idol" the only real reality show on TV. We didn`t know who got kicked off. We never really know. We were shocked that it was Jessica. She`s one of the best singers in the whole thing for many a year. We were just shocked. We couldn`t believe it. And I said to Jennifer and Steven, you know what? No, this is wrong. Let`s go up there. Let`s stop this. This is -you know, it was just so weird because we were all very emotional in that moment because we don`t know if she`s going to win or not but give this girl her chance because she`s so unbelievably talented. You know what I mean?
HAMMER: Yes, we could tell, certainly, you know, even if people were being cynical and saying "It was all staged" - and I`m glad to hear it wasn`t that you guys seem genuinely caught up. And really you`re right that`s what makes "Idol" so great although Randy I am just so shocked to hear you suggest that a show like "Keeping up with the Kardashians" isn`t all real. But that`s a whole - that`s a whole another topic.
JACKSON: Hey I didn`t say that but that`s my boy, Seacrest.
HAMMER: That`s right.
JACKSON: What am I talking about? Wrong show. That was a bad example. But listen - Randy, we know that the "Idol" judges haven`t always had this power to save a contestant. That`s something new that`s been added in recent seasons. There`s been a bit of a mixed feeling. I`m sure (INAUDIBLE) but I want to reveal something to you because we put it out to our viewers. Some of them don`t think it is fair. I`m sure you`re hearing some of these. These are the results of our "Showbiz Tonight`s" exclusive poll.
We asked if the judges should overrule America`s vote. Look at that, 42 percent said yes. So the overwhelming majority 58 percent said no. It seems that America wants the last say. Do you think that`s how it should be?
JACKSON: I think this is what the show is based on. This is how we started it. America definitely has the power to choose. A lot of other shows they have an aggregate of the judges` vote and public`s vote and figure it out. But we only get one save so the public has nothing to worry about. We used that one save on Jessica. We couldn`t save Colton who was a shock to even went home. So you know, I agree with them. They get the power but we need at least that one save. I would argue that it would be nice to have two for us but at least we get one.
HAMMER: And you know, look it`s got to be tough. It`s easy for all of us sitting at home watching but striking that right balance at the judge`s table is not an easy thing to do. That`s what makes the show really magical is the chemistry that has been forged over the various judges and you as the original judge all these years.
But listen, Randy, you`ve heard the cries. Some people saying that you and J. Lo and that Steven Tyler guy are going too easy on contestants. You got in-house coach Jimmy Ivene offering much tougher criticism this season and there has been some talk that he should be a judge. So what do you think? Is there room perhaps for another seat at the table?
JACKSON: Look, I think people are just judging it from where the show came from in the first place. We were the first of any of these kinds of singing shows on TV and I still think the best - I mean, we`re kind of that original Picasso, if you will. So in our 11th season, I`m sure people think because you know, Simon was really tough on kids. So I`m sure people are conditioned more to that now. You got to call it as you sew it as an individual and it is not about - "American Idol" is not a show where people are on there just to be tough to people. That`s not what it is about. The show says it`s about finding the best undiscovered talent, undiscovered talent in America.
HAMMER: Yes.
JACKSON: That`s what the show`s really about. All of these shows people talk about the judges, they talk about us, they talk about Jimmy, what this one does that one does and do, it is really about the talent and the talented kids because they`re the ones that win and go on to either greatness or not. You know what I mean? That`s what it`s really about.
HAMMER: Well, it`s been great to have the consistency of you at that judge`s table through all the seasons, Randy. Now you are working with people who are living with diabetes with the Taking Diabetes to Heart program. Why is the program so important to you?
JACKSON: Well, I`m living with type 2 diabetes. So I teamed up with Merck for this great campaign Taking Diabetes to Heart to really help people better manage their type 2 diabetes. Because a third of the people out there (INAUDIBLE) walking around don`t even know that they have it. We got a great Web site takingdiabetestoheart.com, that has great insightful messages and things on there, recipes, challenges. I`m just trying to get the word out. You know, just trying to help people. You know what I`m saying.
HAMMER: Yes. Good on you on that. Randy, it`s always great to see you, man. I`m glad you`re healthy and doing well.
Well, "Showbiz" is breaking more celebrity news tonight. Buffy`s new baby. Sara Michelle Geller is expanding her family yet again.
Plus Kourtney`s panic shock. The terrifying effect pregnancy is having on Kim Kardashian`s sister.
Also, Olivia Newton John breaks news on "Showbiz Tonight" and that`s at the buzz today.
Olivia`s swift pick. The brand-new "Showbiz" news maker interview Olivia Newton John has just revealed who she like to be cast as Sandy if the remake of "Grease" is made.
Olivia tells me Taylor Swift would be the one that she wants to take the role she originated on screen back in 1978.
Have you ever thought as an actress ever crossed your path or somebody you`ve seen on television or in the movies said "Well, if they were to do a "Grease," I`d say that she would be a good Sandy.
OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN, ACTRESS: Lately, I thought Taylor Swift could probably do it.
HAMMER: Oh, wow. Great thought.
NEWTON-JOHN: And she`s very talented. I`m sure she could do well. And my daughter. I`ve always felt that she can do it.
HAMMER: There you go. Let`s sign her up right now.
Kourtney`s pregnancy panic. Kourtney Kardashian is opening up about an onset of claustrophobia she says she`s been experiencing during her third trimester of pregnancy. In a new post on her blog, Kourtney is revealing details of a scary episode which occurred at an airport this month.
"I had a small panic attack in customs when they stopped everyone in a tunnel. I couldn`t even tell where the tunnel ended. I had to just run to the front of the line because I literally couldn`t breathe. It is a horrible feeling and I`m hoping it goes away after my pregnancy. I hate that feeling of being trapped with no control." Ahhh deep breath."
A new baby for Buffy. Former "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" star Sara Michelle Geller and her husband, Freddie Prince, Jr., have just revealed to "People" magazine that they are expecting their second child together. The couple met while filming the thriller, "I Know What You Did Last Summer" and have been married since 2002. No word on when the new arrival is due. The couple`s daughter, Charlotte Grace is two years old.
Congratulations.
Tonight, Rihanna sets the record straight.
Yes, I said Rihanna not Rihanna. Plus before you start sending me hate tweets. Please watch this.
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HAMMER: You and I, you were going to set the record straight on something that I get into fight with people all the time. When you introduced yourself to me all those years ago because you almost didn`t expect people to know who you were - you said Rihanna.
RIHANNA: I knew this was the question.
HAMMER: Tonight, you know who is finally telling the world exactly, precisely how to say her name.
"Showbiz Tonight" on HLN news and views. Now the "Showbiz" news ticker, more stories from the "Showbiz Tonight" newsroom, making news tonight.
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ELLEN DEGENERES, HOST: (INAUDIBLE) I don`t think you should use a spatula for that.
If you go to (INAUDIBLE) don`t eat the pancakes. Do not eat the pancakes. I`m a bad girl. Yes. That a girl.
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HAMMER: Are you ready? Because tonight Rihanna gets real. I went one on one with Rihanna at the huge "Time" 100 Powerhouse =party this week. It was a "Showbiz" newsmaker interview I`ve been waiting for a long time.
I first met Rihanna back in 2005. It was just as her hit (INAUDIBLE) was climbing the charts that summer and people were just getting to know her name and how to pronounce it. She`s certainly lived in lifetime since that day we spent together nearly seven years ago and she now, of course, one of the biggest stars in the world. So when we had our little reunion earlier this week as she is being celebrated as one of "Times" 100 most influential people, I had to take a little time to reminisce.
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HAMMER: Nice to see you.
RIHANNA: Look at you all dapper.
HAMMER: Look at you.
The first time you and I met, the summer of 2005, all people knew was you (INAUDIBLE) you came up to my summer camp for the children with HIV and we spent a day together.
RIHANNA: How are you?
HAMMER: It`s nice to see you all these years later because I believe that was the last time. When you think back to that because I have a very clear memory of that time but when you think back to that time in your life, what do you miss most about that time in your life?
RIHANNA: Probably less paparazzi. A little more privacy. You know? I guess what do I really miss -
HAMMER: It was the simplicity and the innocence to be sure.
RIHANNA: Yes, definitely the simplicity because there wasn`t a lot of people knew about me and I guess that really helped me to stay away from being under the spotlight or - you know? And I enjoyed that. I enjoyed being private about myself. After a while I didn`t appreciate people having a misconception of me and so I started to get into like things like social networking, talking to my fans one on one. That way, you know, I did a little bit of behind-the-scenes now and then, give them a little more insight into the person that I am. I think that`s important for people to know. To know now.
HAMMER: Nice to have the freedom of that voice. You and I before I let you go - set the record straight on something that I get in fights with people all the time. When you introduced yourself to me all those years ago -- because you almost didn`t expect to people to know who you were. You said Rihanna.
RIHANNA: I knew that was the question. It was Rihanna.
HAMMER: Thank you. That`s all we need to know. Rihanna. When I say do not send me angry tweets or Facebook comments. It is Rihanna. She says its Rihanna. Thank you Rihanna.
RIHANNA: Thank you so much. Likewise.
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HAMMER: Right there. You have it. Rihanna herself verifying to me and the world that her name is in fact pronounced Rihanna. I can`t provide you with better proof than that that I`m not actually butchering her name as so many people seem to think and e-mail all the time. So my mission is complete her. Thank you very much for that.
By the way, Charles, put up the picture one more time. Look at her from 2005, 17 years old, no idea how big things were about to get for her. Wow.
That is it for "Showbiz Tonight." Thanks for watching. I`m A.J. Hammer. Catch "Showbiz Tonight" weeknights at 11:00 p.m. Eastern and Pacific, right here on HLN. Have an excellent weekend.
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