'Ugly Betty' Cast Talks Possible Posh Appearance

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (August 22, 2007) — The cast of “Ugly Betty” came to Hollywood’s Mondrian Hotel Monday night to celebrate this week’s release of the show’s season one DVD, but they also spoke to Access Hollywood about the rumored season two appearance of a rather “posh” guest star, Victoria Beckham!

“I’ve heard rumors that she might come on the show and do a little guest spot, which would be fun,” said “Betty” star America Ferrera. “She definitely belongs in the world, in the MODE world. She’d definitely be somebody that Wilhelmina is good buddies with.”

According to co-star Eric Mabius, Ferrera may not be wrong about Posh being “good buddies” with the devilish MODE magazine creative director, played by Vanessa Williams.

“I have heard she is going to be a bridesmaid for Wilhelmina’s wedding,” said Mabius, who plays Betty’s boss, Daniel Meade. He also implied that Victoria would be playing herself in the planned episode.

“That is what I’ve heard...I don’t know for sure,” he coyly added.

'Ugly Betty's' DVD Release Party

He may know more than he lets on, though, because he’s the one who apparently got Victoria involved in the first place!

He said that he and Posh got to talking at this year’s UK Glamour Magazine Awards, where they won Man of the Year and Woman of the Year, respectively.

“We spent a lot of time together, and she said lots of nice things about the show, and said that she watches it every week,” he recalled.

ABC

Was Mabius 'keen' for a Posh appearance?

Mabius said that “Betty” producers caught wind of a statement he made to the British press that they were “really keen on having her on the show,” so they approached Victoria’s people about making an appearance. The funny thing is, Eric was misquoted by the press!

“They don’t realize that Americans don’t really say ‘keen’ unless it is an episode of ‘Happy Days,‘” he joked.

So does he deserve the credit for recruiting Posh to do the show?

“Well not credit for being misquoted,” he said, “but excited that, you know, that misquote ended up [with] her being on the show.”

And while it’s exciting to potentially have a huge star like Posh appear, the show has already wowed audiences and critics in its phenomenal first year. With millions of viewers and 11 Emmy nominations, the cast is gearing up to keep that wild momentum going into season two.

“I think we have such a license now to really push the envelope even a little bit more,” Ana Ortiz (Hilda Suarez) told Access, So I think there is going to be a lot more scandal!”

Speaking of scandal, will Betty’s ill-fated love interest, Henry, return? He was last seen heading to Arizona with his presumably pregnant girlfriend, Charlie.

“I can’t tell you the circumstances under which [Henry] comes back, said actor Christopher Gorham, “but we find out I think around episode four who the father of [the] baby is.”

And while he wouldn’t divulge anything more, Gorham has a huge piece of advice for all the “Betty” fans.

“You can’t miss the first five minutes of episode one of season two,” he gushed. “One of the funniest things we shot to date — it is a fantasy sequence with Betty, Henry and Charlie that cannot be missed. It’s great.”

You can catch that sequence and more when “Ugly Betty” returns to ABC on Thursday, September 27 at 8:00 PM (ET).

Brad Pitt Tours 'Global Green' Housing Project In New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana (August 22, 2007) — Brad Pitt toured the construction site of the housing project he helped set up in New Orleans’ Lower 9th Ward yesterday, an area recovering from the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina.

The actor and humanitarian was joined by the “Today” show’s Ann Curry, who spoke with him about the environmentally-friendly project in conjunction with Global Green USA.

“I know a lot of the people here. I care very much for the area,” said Pitt, who purchased a home in New Orleans with his partner, Angelina Jolie, in January.

The house currently under construction is the first of five planned for the area, based on the winning design from a competition Pitt spearheaded.

“All the materials here are nontoxic,” Brad explained. “And I think, for the family that’s going to be here, especially being a father — that it’s got to feel good to know that he’s giving his family a better way of life.”

“This house does not poison the environment. It’s respectful to the-- to the people who will be here after. It’s very simple,” he said of the house’s design, noting that it wasn’t necessary to use potentially harmful new technology in its implementation.

Inside Brad & Angelina's New Orleans Home

Ann asked Brad why a man of his wealth and fame would care so deeply about those displaced by the hurricane.

“It’s a justice issue,” he replied. “What we saw [with] Katrina is that there is a portion of our society that’s being overlooked. And-- and so-- in the aftermath, we’re not going to be able to bring back the friends and family that are lost. We’re not going to be able to bring back their heirlooms and their photographs.”

But with the Global Green housing project, Pitt believes that displaced families will be given a fighting chance to rebuild.

“Maybe we can provide a better way of life,” he said. “Maybe we can find some good out of this. And that has to deal with justice and fairness. And-- and what I think this place proves is that this technology, that this healthier way of life, this better way of life, is applicable to all economic levels.”

Rather than depending on oil, which is both expensive and a pollutant, Pitt stressed the importance of relying on solar, wind and waterpower.

“Any one of these can be harnessed,” Brad explained. “And we can integrate ourselves into that ecosystem. And not only power our houses, but actually produce energy for other parts of the city. So that was the goal here.” This particular house is-- the family that will live here will save $75 on their energy bill. Which is a huge saving for any of us.”

For Brad, the housing project is an example of how the world at large can work toward a better future.

“Little steps like this-- I’m proud of it because it helps create a dialogue,” he said. “It brings more knowledge and puts these ideas into practice. There’s a lot of people doing it, and we’re happy to be a part of it.”

Part One of Ann’s interview with Brad appeared this morning on NBC’s “Today” show. Part two will air on tomorrow’s show, beginning at 7:00 AM.

'High School Musical 3' Could Be In Trouble

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (August 22, 2007) - With the overwhelming success of Disney Channel’s “High School Musical 2” on the small screen, it’s no secret Disney is itching to ride the wave of success with a big screen sequel.

Gossip reports surfaced today that the planned third movie, is in trouble. Several reports claim that stars Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens are holding out on the big screen version for more money.

When Access Hollywood spoke to Zac last week at the “HSM 2” premiere, he assured us it was something he wanted to do, “A third movie would be a dream come true. Finishing “High School Musical” with a third movie, that would be in theaters, is just sort of a tribute to everything we kind of did here.”

At the same premiere, Vanessa told Access Hollywood she had not seen a script yet, but “If it’s good of course we are all going to join back in We all have so much fun together. So, why wouldn’t we do another one?”

Access Hollywood has confirmed today with their reps that both Zac and Vanessa are still in talks to do the third movie.

Video: Dish Of Salt - The 'HSM 2' Quiz

Walt Disney Studios today released the following statement; “There is no contractual obligation for any of the cast members to return. That said, we are in active negotiations with all of the principle cast members and are feeling optimistic.”

Back in February, Disney announced plans for a 2008 feature film sequel with a Halloween themed dubbed “Haunted High School Musical.” Today Disney says they have scrapped plans for the Halloween theme and instead will focus on the senior year of key characters at East High. The original writer from the first two films, Peter Barsocchini, is writing the script. The original producers and director are also on board.

Director Kenny Ortega confirmed to Access Hollywood last week that he is definitely on board too.

Why Is Joss Stone On Crutches?

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (August 22, 2007) – A rolling stone might not gather any moss… but what about a hobbling Stone?

A smiling and purple-haired Joss Stone was sporting a serious pair of crutches as she left the ever-trendy and subsequently perennially paparazzi packed Ivy restaurant in Hollywood yesterday.

A rep for her label told Access Hollywood the songstress had been in Uganda doing charity work and she twisted her ankle.

However, the injury apparently won’t effect her tour schedule, as no upcoming dates have been canceled, including next week’s gig at The Greek Theater in Los Angeles.

Flynet

Joss stone hobbles out of The Ivy

Why Can't Kevin Federline's Team Find Britney's Former Manager?

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (August 22, 2007) - As Kevin Federline’s defense team plots their next move in the custody battle with Britney Spears, one potential target happens to be where no one can find him.

In a phone call with Access Hollywood’s Billy Bush today, Brit’s former longtime manager Larry Rudolph (pictured in November 2006 with Britney) revealed he is a long way from home where the folks serving the subpoenas can’t find him.

“Where are you?” Billy asked.

“On vacation,” Rudolph responded.

“What are you doing?” Billy asked.

“Hiding out from Kevin’s processors,” Rudolph said, drawing a big laugh from both of them.

Video: Access Archives - Britney's First Interview

As it turns out, Rudolph’s friends have informed him that K-Fed’s team had been showing up at his office and on his doorstep, presumably in an attempt to make him the latest target of their subpoena smackdown.

When he is finally subpoenaed, Rudolph will join Brit’s former bodyguard Damien Shippen, her former assistant Shannon Funk, her pal Alli Sims and even Brit’s former rehab facility Promises in the list of those who have already been served.

Rudolph jokingly added that it’s all just a matter of time.

“When I come back, I’m sure they’ll find me,” he joked to Billy.

As it turns out, Rudolph might not be the only in a far away land.

According to several internet reports, Britney herself is currently in Belgium. X-17 Online even went as far as to release a photo of a public bathroom where she reportedly stopped.

Palm Springs Break-In Reminiscent Of 'Helter Skelter' Scene

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (August 22, 2007) — Vandals broke into a vacation home and left a pentagram, often associated with witchcraft, on the floor and scrawled “Helter Skelter” and other graffiti around the house.

A cleaning crew hired by homeowner Chris Fisher of Costa Mesa discovered the vandalism last week and notified police. The intruders apparently pried open a glass door to get inside.

There were no arrests.

Fisher told detectives the home was in good shape when he left Aug. 14. The break-in was discovered Friday, Sgt. Mitch Spike said.

Besides the five-pointed star laid out with sticks on the floor, the word “Blood” was written in soap on a television screen and the word “pigz” or “pigs” was scribbled on a glass door. The intruders scrawled “Helter Skelter” on the fireplace.

The burglars turned chairs upside down and hung many pictures backward. The toilet was filled with straw-like sticks, authorities said.

The vandalism was reminiscent of the 1969 Charles Manson family slayings of eight people at two homes. Victims included pregnant actress Sharon Tate.

The sergeant said it wasn’t known if the Palm Springs vandalism was the work of witchcraft practitioners, devil-worshippers or simply bored young vandals with too much time on their hands.

“I’m sure this kind of stuff takes place all over the place, but it’s unusual to see it in a burglary, where somebody would take the time to do it,” he said.

Police were trying to determine whether any items were missing from the home.

Is Wayne Newton Headed To 'Dancing With The Stars'?

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (August 22, 2007) – It looks like Mr. Las Vegas might be heading to Hollywood.

Look for Wayne Newton to join the cast of “Dancing With the Stars” next season, according to reports.

However, the official cast won’t be revealed until August 29 on ABC on “Good Morning America.”

Other stars rumored to be lacing up their “Dancing” shoes are former Spice Girls Victoria Beckham and Melanie Brown, as well as “90210” alum Jennie Garth.

But who will follow in the two-step of previous winners Kelly Monaco, Emmitt Smith, Drew Lachey and Apolo Anton Ohno? Find out when the new season of “DWTS” bows on September 24.

Video: Dish Of Salt - Backstage At 'DTWS' (April 2007)

Vanessa Minnillo's Live-In Life With Nick Lachey

NEW YORK, NY (August 22, 2007) — There are no marriage plans for Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo yet, but the happy couple took a big step when they moved in together earlier this year.

Vanessa spoke to Access Hollywood‘s Tim Vincent about living with the musician in their Manhattan home.

“Whether you live with a college roommate or a girlfriend or your significant other, it’s always a learning experience,” said Vanessa. “We take every day as it is, and as a grain of salt, and I have a constant support system — and I am very grateful for that.”

Nick was right there in the room during the interview, and her parents were close by as well.

While she’s coy about living with Nick in the New York high rise, the former MTV host did admit, after a year of dating, that life has changed.

Nick & Vanessa's New York Nest

“What’s it been like being someone that interviews people, and then everything turns around and you are the person that the paparazzi are after?” Tim asked.

“It’s a weird position,” answered Vanessa. “I feel so lucky and blessed, and so whether you want to say the tables are turned, or the paparazzi, whatever it is — life is good, I have no complaints.”

Now she’s flirting with a new career, launching her “Flirt!” cosmetics line at Kohls department store in New Jersey.

Vanessa was hands-on in creating the makeup, and Tim escorted her through the store to see her products displayed for the first time!

“The anticipation is killing me,” Vanessa gushed. “I want to see what it looks like, where it’s at the counter, even, and how people like it.”

Nick and the parents stood by as Vanessa posed for photographers and met her fans. Hundreds waited in line to get an autograph from the new cosmetics gal. One anxious fan even greeted her with a hug!

“You see your product, and you see your blood sweat and tears,” said an emotional Vanessa.

“I guess if I were a musician it would be like my album release — but trust me, no album here. I just sing in the shower...and terribly,” she joked.

And with that revelation, Vanessa shared one more little secret: Nick’s favorite color.

“He is fan of the purple,” she said, “‘cause that’s what I’m wearing today.”

Is Blonsky Bound For Broadway's 'Hairspray'?

NEW YORK, NY (August 21, 2007) – Could “Hairspray” star Nikki Blonsky be heading to Broadway in the musical that made her famous?

Blonsky, who auditioned for the Broadway version of the show before being cast in the movie, certainly left that option open when we spoke to her last Sunday night at Lance Bass’ premiere as Corny Collins in the show, now in it’s 5th year.

“Would you ever go back; would you ever consider doing the play now?,” Access Hollywood asked Blonsky.

“Well, you know, maybe, definitely it’s been brought to my attention and it’s something that I think about every single day especially coming to the openings of ‘Grease,’ and I went to the opening of ‘Spring Awakening.’”

Blonsky Back To Broadway?

“I definitely go into live theatre; it perks me up, and makes me want to do it,” the young actress continued to say.

It certainly seems that Blonsky may have the fever for the Great White Way!

Blonsky is currently filming “Harold” this summer, alongside Cuba Gooding Jr., Spencer Breslin, Ally Sheedy & Fred Willard.

Access has reached out for more formal comment from Blonsky’s rep.

Did Will Smith Movie Cost Restaurant Staff A Paycheck?

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (August 22, 2007) – Will Smith’s new movie is (quite literally) bringing traffic to a stand still in LA, however reports it also caused an entire restaurant staff to miss out on a week’s worth of work may not be what they appear.

Will’s new action thriller “Hancock” (co-starring Charlize Theron) is filming in various parts of Los Angeles. And according to one report, while the crew is shooting scenes inside Café Pinot, the entire staff at is losing out on work, beginning on Monday and running through Thursday of this week.

However contrary to other reports, Access Hollywood has learned Café Pinot did not, in fact, send their employees home without pay during the shoot. Instead, the days Will and the crew were filming became optional work days for the staff.

A rep for the Patina Restaurant Group (which owns the swanky Cafe Pinot) released the following statement to Access Hollywood:

“Patina Restaurant Group respects its staff and makes them the utmost priority. Regarding this particular story, inaccurate information has been disseminated. The staff at Cafe Pinot were given the opportunity to take available shifts, as there is a need for staff during the filming days. Staff members that wanted to work were able to take these shifts, and many opted take advantage of the filming days to take vacation. Restaurant management directly responds to any questions and concerns raised by the staff, and we always encourage our staff to bring their concerns to management or human resources, so that we can address any issues.”

Video: Access Archives - Will Smith

The studio was not immediately available for comment.

So while Will avoided a restaurant uproar, sadly, the film will soon be the cause of some more major traffic delays in the LA area, specifically near the perennially congested LAX airport.

The studio has announced it will shut down sections of the 105 freeway while an elaborate chase sequence is filmed on Saturday and Sunday.