"American Idol" creator Simon Fuller has a new project: a Web-based series that also will explore the desire of ordinary people to become Hollywood stars.
Fuller's "If I Can Dream," which is being billed as the first of "a new generation of post-reality entertainment," will document the story of five young people who dream of success in Hollywood. The show will allow viewers to interact with the individuals and narrative in real time, and will be seen live 24 hours a day, seven days a week at www.ificandream.com.
The series is scheduled to launch multiple platforms including online, radio, TV and mobile handsets early next year.
Showing posts with label TV Entertainment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label TV Entertainment. Show all posts
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Kamal launched Gouthami's tele - serial!
Actor Kamal Hassan has launched a new TV serial Abhirami in which Gouthami makes her re entry! Produced by Abhirami Ramanathan under his banner Abhirami Mega Mall, Kutti Padmini plays the role of creative head in this serial. The grand inauguration of the serial was done Monday morning at a function held at the Abhirami Mega Mall. Kamal Hassan switched on the camera while Rama Narayan, president of the powerful producers council gave the first clap.
Present on the occasion were dignitaries Amirtham of Kalaingar TV, Khushboo, Kasturi Raja, Kutty Padmini, Kalpana, VC Guhanathan, TV actor Srinivasan, KRG, Kalaipuli Thanu and Kalaipuli Sekar amongst others. Abirami Ramanathan announced his future projects in small screen and explained why he had made the inaugural function in cinema puja style. "Earlier we had made serials like Devathai, Maayavi Mareechan and a few others but now we have decided to go into serials in a big way since the reach is enormous.”
Gauthami was happy about this re entry and says, "Many people have been asking me when I am not returning to acting and this is my step in that direction. More details of my role will be announced later." Kamal says that small screen is the best medium to promote cinema. The actor urged to implement the copy right plan in small screen too.
Present on the occasion were dignitaries Amirtham of Kalaingar TV, Khushboo, Kasturi Raja, Kutty Padmini, Kalpana, VC Guhanathan, TV actor Srinivasan, KRG, Kalaipuli Thanu and Kalaipuli Sekar amongst others. Abirami Ramanathan announced his future projects in small screen and explained why he had made the inaugural function in cinema puja style. "Earlier we had made serials like Devathai, Maayavi Mareechan and a few others but now we have decided to go into serials in a big way since the reach is enormous.”
Gauthami was happy about this re entry and says, "Many people have been asking me when I am not returning to acting and this is my step in that direction. More details of my role will be announced later." Kamal says that small screen is the best medium to promote cinema. The actor urged to implement the copy right plan in small screen too.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Winning dance group gets rousing welcome in Orissa
Members of Orissa's victorious Prince Dance Group, all daily wage earners and none with professional dance training, got a rousing welcome in Berhampur railway station early Tuesday morning after winning the hotly-contested TV reality show 'India's Got Talent'.
The artistes reached Berhampur station by Konark express from Mumbai at about 1.30 a.m., a senior district police official told IANS. They won the grand finale in Mumbai Saturday night.
Residents of Berhampur and fans, including senior district government officials, were present at the station to welcome the contestants with flowers. The artistes were later taken to Berhampur town in a grand procession, the official said. Many of the fans burst crackers and shouted slogans praising the dancers.
The Prince Dance Group from Berhampur town, nearly 180 km from here, was selected out of 45,000 competitors to perform at the grand finale.
The group, comprising 26 artistes all below 22 years, held the audience and the judges spellbound with their performance, which was based on episodes from the Mahabharata.
Led by their 26-year-old dance teacher Krishna Mohan Reddy, who never had any formal training in dance, the group won the Rs.50 lakh (Rs.5 million) cash award and a Maruti Suzuki Ritz car.
Reddy, who arrived separately Monday, said all the artistes would now concentrate on dance.
'We are now planning to participate in international competitions,' he told reporters.
Reddy also thanked people of the state, the corporates, media and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for encouraging them throughout the competition.
The artistes reached Berhampur station by Konark express from Mumbai at about 1.30 a.m., a senior district police official told IANS. They won the grand finale in Mumbai Saturday night.
Residents of Berhampur and fans, including senior district government officials, were present at the station to welcome the contestants with flowers. The artistes were later taken to Berhampur town in a grand procession, the official said. Many of the fans burst crackers and shouted slogans praising the dancers.
The Prince Dance Group from Berhampur town, nearly 180 km from here, was selected out of 45,000 competitors to perform at the grand finale.
The group, comprising 26 artistes all below 22 years, held the audience and the judges spellbound with their performance, which was based on episodes from the Mahabharata.
Led by their 26-year-old dance teacher Krishna Mohan Reddy, who never had any formal training in dance, the group won the Rs.50 lakh (Rs.5 million) cash award and a Maruti Suzuki Ritz car.
Reddy, who arrived separately Monday, said all the artistes would now concentrate on dance.
'We are now planning to participate in international competitions,' he told reporters.
Reddy also thanked people of the state, the corporates, media and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for encouraging them throughout the competition.
Monday, May 4, 2009
David Hasselhoff hospitalised for alcohol poisoning
Former Baywatch star David Hasselhoff has been rushed to an L.A. hospital because of alcohol poisoning on May 2.
According to RadarOnline.com, the vodka-guzzling America's Got Talent judge was taken to Cedars-Sinai medical centre after his daughter Hayley, 16, found him unconscious on the floor of his home in Encino, California.
Hayley then called her mom and Hasselhoff's estranged actress Pamela Bach, who lives 10 minutes away in Hollywood, and the duo then drove him to the hospital.
The 56-year-old actor, who has had a history of alcohol problems, was registered with a .39 alcohol level this time round.
While a source had earlier revealed that Hasselhoff was "barely breathing when they got him to the hospital," reports suggest that he is recovering.
"This is about the seventh time he's been taken to a hospital over the last few years with alcohol poisoning," Us magazine quoted the source as saying.
According to TMZ, Hasselhoff's rep, Judy Katz, said the star was "fine and well and happy and is celebrating his father Joe Hasselhoff's 80th birthday tonight at dinner ... along with his girlfriend, Kimberly."
According to RadarOnline.com, the vodka-guzzling America's Got Talent judge was taken to Cedars-Sinai medical centre after his daughter Hayley, 16, found him unconscious on the floor of his home in Encino, California.
Hayley then called her mom and Hasselhoff's estranged actress Pamela Bach, who lives 10 minutes away in Hollywood, and the duo then drove him to the hospital.
The 56-year-old actor, who has had a history of alcohol problems, was registered with a .39 alcohol level this time round.
While a source had earlier revealed that Hasselhoff was "barely breathing when they got him to the hospital," reports suggest that he is recovering.
"This is about the seventh time he's been taken to a hospital over the last few years with alcohol poisoning," Us magazine quoted the source as saying.
According to TMZ, Hasselhoff's rep, Judy Katz, said the star was "fine and well and happy and is celebrating his father Joe Hasselhoff's 80th birthday tonight at dinner ... along with his girlfriend, Kimberly."
Thursday, January 8, 2009
'Dark Knight' wins big at People's Choice
Holy, People's Choice Awards, Batman! "The Dark Knight" soared away with every trophy it was nominated for last night at the 35th annual fan-favorite CBS ceremony, The Associated Press reports.
The caped crusader flick won five awards, including favorite cast, superhero, action movie and on-screen matchup for Christian Bale's Batman and Heath Ledger's Joker.
Ellen DeGeneres and "Dancing with the Stars" were early winners, winning for favorite talk show host and favorite competition/reality show, respectively.
"I wish I could share this with you," DeGeneres told the audience while clutching her trophy.
Other winners selected by Internet voters in categories spanning movies, television and music included Chris Brown as favorite male singer and "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood as favorite female singer, star under 35 and for country song for "Last Name."
The fan-favorite CBS ceremony was hosted by Queen Latifah and returned to the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles for its typical star-studded live-show format, following last year's writer's strike-friendly, pretaped program.
Awards selected by Internet balloting were presented in more than 40 categories, including scene-stealing guest star, which went to Robin Williams for his guest-starring role on "Law & Order: SVU," rock song, which Kid Rock won for his song, "All Summer Long," and leading lady, which went to Kate Hudson.
The caped crusader flick won five awards, including favorite cast, superhero, action movie and on-screen matchup for Christian Bale's Batman and Heath Ledger's Joker.
Ellen DeGeneres and "Dancing with the Stars" were early winners, winning for favorite talk show host and favorite competition/reality show, respectively.
"I wish I could share this with you," DeGeneres told the audience while clutching her trophy.
Other winners selected by Internet voters in categories spanning movies, television and music included Chris Brown as favorite male singer and "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood as favorite female singer, star under 35 and for country song for "Last Name."
The fan-favorite CBS ceremony was hosted by Queen Latifah and returned to the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles for its typical star-studded live-show format, following last year's writer's strike-friendly, pretaped program.
Awards selected by Internet balloting were presented in more than 40 categories, including scene-stealing guest star, which went to Robin Williams for his guest-starring role on "Law & Order: SVU," rock song, which Kid Rock won for his song, "All Summer Long," and leading lady, which went to Kate Hudson.
Actress Alyssa Milano to wed Hollywood agent
Alyssa Milano is engaged to marry a Hollywood agent. Publicists for Milano said Tuesday that the actress accepted a marriage proposal on Dec. 18 from David Bugliari, an agent at Creative Artists Agency. The two have been dating for over a year. No wedding date has been set.
The 36-year-old "Who's the Boss?" star most recently has appeared in a recurring role on "My Name is Earl." Her other TV credits include "Charmed" and "Melrose Place."
The 36-year-old "Who's the Boss?" star most recently has appeared in a recurring role on "My Name is Earl." Her other TV credits include "Charmed" and "Melrose Place."
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
AR Rahman turns 43
AR Rahman turned 43 on Tuesday, as television and FM channels played special programmes to mark the day but the music maestro said the celebrations were low key due to Muharram.
Speaking at the South India launch of a mobile phone, Rahman said the day was usual for him and there were not much celebrations as the Muslims mourn during the month of Muharram.
Rahman is an inspiration for many. For instance, acclaimed singer Sukhwinder Singh gives the credit of his success to the composer.
“Rahman has been a catalyst in my success because when everyone turned me down and ridiculed my song Thaiyan thaiyan, he was the only one to believe in me. With a few changes in lyrics, he gave me my first big success in the form of Chaiyyan chaiyyan," Sukhwinder said.
With 11 Filmfare Awards to his credit, Rahman has achieved the status of legend in the lives of upcoming singers who dream to work with the composer, at least once.
“Rahman can easily be termed as the living legend in Bollywood. He is one of the few people who made Indian music popular internationally. It will be a dream come true if I get an opportunity to work with him,” said Abhijeet Sawant, who won the first season of musical reality show Indian Idol.
Said Harshit Saxena, runner-up of Amul Star Voice of India: “Rahman always does an excellent job. Everybody has a dream to work with him, and being a great fan of his, I possess the same.”
The musician got his first big break in Mani Ratnam's Roja and later Rahman composed for many films in the south. The film was dubbed in Hindi and the songs like Dil hai chota sa, came as a whiff of fresh air for music lovers who wanted more from this musical genius.
Winner of numerous prestigious awards, Rahman has recently been nominated for the Golden Globe Awards for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.
So what is in Rahman's music that clicks so well with audiences the world over?
“Rahman's music spells magic. We actually wait for his albums. You can see his soul, hard work and dedication in his songs. He never compromises with his style, which is so distinct,” shared Prajakta Shukre, a finalist of Indian Idol 1, who is currently singing for regional films.
Abhijeet Sawant added: “Rahman has never gone with formula music and is on a different level altogether. A calm and soft individual, he has a very different vision. His music is never dictated by popular demand. He always experiments and that is what people like about him.”
With his upcoming projects Delhi-6 and Blue, Rahman's fans will have no dearth of good music to hear and hum.
Speaking at the South India launch of a mobile phone, Rahman said the day was usual for him and there were not much celebrations as the Muslims mourn during the month of Muharram.
Rahman is an inspiration for many. For instance, acclaimed singer Sukhwinder Singh gives the credit of his success to the composer.
“Rahman has been a catalyst in my success because when everyone turned me down and ridiculed my song Thaiyan thaiyan, he was the only one to believe in me. With a few changes in lyrics, he gave me my first big success in the form of Chaiyyan chaiyyan," Sukhwinder said.
With 11 Filmfare Awards to his credit, Rahman has achieved the status of legend in the lives of upcoming singers who dream to work with the composer, at least once.
“Rahman can easily be termed as the living legend in Bollywood. He is one of the few people who made Indian music popular internationally. It will be a dream come true if I get an opportunity to work with him,” said Abhijeet Sawant, who won the first season of musical reality show Indian Idol.
Said Harshit Saxena, runner-up of Amul Star Voice of India: “Rahman always does an excellent job. Everybody has a dream to work with him, and being a great fan of his, I possess the same.”
The musician got his first big break in Mani Ratnam's Roja and later Rahman composed for many films in the south. The film was dubbed in Hindi and the songs like Dil hai chota sa, came as a whiff of fresh air for music lovers who wanted more from this musical genius.
Winner of numerous prestigious awards, Rahman has recently been nominated for the Golden Globe Awards for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.
So what is in Rahman's music that clicks so well with audiences the world over?
“Rahman's music spells magic. We actually wait for his albums. You can see his soul, hard work and dedication in his songs. He never compromises with his style, which is so distinct,” shared Prajakta Shukre, a finalist of Indian Idol 1, who is currently singing for regional films.
Abhijeet Sawant added: “Rahman has never gone with formula music and is on a different level altogether. A calm and soft individual, he has a very different vision. His music is never dictated by popular demand. He always experiments and that is what people like about him.”
With his upcoming projects Delhi-6 and Blue, Rahman's fans will have no dearth of good music to hear and hum.
Batman makes producers' shortlist
Batman blockbuster The Dark Knight is among the films up for best picture at the Producers Guild of America awards.
As its nominations often mirror the Oscar line-up, its inclusion could boost its chances of being up for the same prize at the Academy Awards.
Brad Pitt's fantasy The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Frost/Nixon, Sean Penn biopic Milk and Slumdog Millionaire are also up for the guild's top prize.
Wall-E, Bolt and Kung Fu Panda are all up for best animated feature.
Last year's best picture winner, the Coen brothers' No Country for Old Men, went on to win top prize at the Academy Awards.
The PGA is not always a reliable indicator, however, having recognised Little Miss Sunshine the previous year ahead of Oscar victor The Departed.
Documentary
Man on Wire, about the Frenchman who wire-walked between the Twin Towers in New York, is one of three films up for the best documentary prize.
The Producers Guild also awards television productions, with Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage and the US version of The Office all recognised in the TV comedy category.
Damages, Dexter and Lost are up for the TV drama prize, as are Boston Legal and Mad Men.
Winners will be announced in Los Angeles on 24 January, two days after the Oscar nominations are announced.
The Hollywood awards season continues this weekend with the Golden Globes, one of the key events in the run-up to the Oscars on 22 February.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Directors Guild of America (DGA) will announce their award nominations later this week
As its nominations often mirror the Oscar line-up, its inclusion could boost its chances of being up for the same prize at the Academy Awards.
Brad Pitt's fantasy The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Frost/Nixon, Sean Penn biopic Milk and Slumdog Millionaire are also up for the guild's top prize.
Wall-E, Bolt and Kung Fu Panda are all up for best animated feature.
Last year's best picture winner, the Coen brothers' No Country for Old Men, went on to win top prize at the Academy Awards.
The PGA is not always a reliable indicator, however, having recognised Little Miss Sunshine the previous year ahead of Oscar victor The Departed.
Documentary
Man on Wire, about the Frenchman who wire-walked between the Twin Towers in New York, is one of three films up for the best documentary prize.
The Producers Guild also awards television productions, with Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage and the US version of The Office all recognised in the TV comedy category.
Damages, Dexter and Lost are up for the TV drama prize, as are Boston Legal and Mad Men.
Winners will be announced in Los Angeles on 24 January, two days after the Oscar nominations are announced.
The Hollywood awards season continues this weekend with the Golden Globes, one of the key events in the run-up to the Oscars on 22 February.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Directors Guild of America (DGA) will announce their award nominations later this week
BBC Sound of 2009: The pundits
More than 130 influential and impartial UK-based music critics and broadcasters were canvassed to find the best new acts for the BBC Sound of 2009 list. They were:
Mark Adams - Box TV head of music (4Music, The Box, Kiss, Smash Hits, Magic, Q, Kerrang!)
Sean Adams - Drowned in Sound editor-in-chief
Edward Adoo - NME, BBC Asian Network
Henry Barnes - Guardian.co.uk
Mark Beaumont - NME
Joanne Bell - BFBS head of music
Sarah Boden - Observer Music Monthly
Clint Boon - Xfm Manchester DJ
Helen Bownass - More magazine
Paul Brannigan - Kerrang! magazine editor
Lauren Brennan - BBC Radio 1 music scheduler
Lucio Buffone - Capital FM and Hit 40 UK DJ
Jim Butler - Observer Music Monthly, Big Issue
Tim Chipping - HM-PJ music editor (Holy Moly, Popjustice, 4Music)
Stuart Clarke - Music Week magazine talent editor
Richard Clayton - Financial Times, Sunday Times
Greg Cochrane - BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat music reporter
Hattie Collins - RWD magazine editor, i-D music editor, The Guardian, Big Issue
Scott Colothan - Gigwise.com editor
Matt Cook - MTV UK director of talent and music
Andy Cowan - Hip-Hop Connection magazine editor
Will Cozens - Kiss DJ
James Curran - Absolute Radio head of music
Robery D'Ovidio - Heat Radio station manger
Rob Da Bank - BBC Radio 1 DJ, Bestival festival organiser
Kim Dawson - Daily Star Playlist editor
Nick Decosemo - Mixmag editor
Antonio Dellamura - Pyro Radio station manager
Niall Doherty - The Fly magazine editor
Andi Durrant - Galaxy Radio DJ
John Earls - Teletext, News of the World
Ben East - Metro
Rick Edwards - T4 & Xfm presenter
Matilda Egere-Cooper - Independent
George Ergatoudis - BBC Radio 1 head of music
Chantelle Fiddy - Thelondonpaper, Mixmag, i-D, Tank, RWD magazines
Mark Findlay - Capital FM and Hit Music Network head of music
Paul Flynn - Grazia, i-D, Pop, Attitude magazines
James Foley - Record of the Day magazine music editor
Harriet Gibsone - The Fly magazine Ones To Watch editor
Ben Gilbert - Yahoo! Music UK
Sam Grape - Thatgrapejuice.net blog
Phoebe Greenwood - Times music editor
Gareth Grundy - Observer Music Monthly deputy editor
Hanna Hanra - The Pix, i-D, Sunday Times Style
Nigel Harding - BBC Radio 1 music producer
Simon Harper - Clash magazine editor
Bob Harris - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Gary Harrison - Gaydar Radio head of music
Todd Hart - Dalston Oxfam Shop and Der Fresh Creamy blogger
Jaimie Hodgson - NME new music editor
Alison Howe - BBC Later... With Jools Holland producer
Ludovic Hunter Tilney - Financial Times
Lara Hutcheson - Top of the Pops magazine acting editor
Allan Jones - Uncut magazine editor
Tim Jonze - Guardian.co.uk music editor
Anna Karatziva - MTV UK label director, talent and music
Nik Keene - Contactmusic.com editor
John Kennedy - Xfm DJ
Jordan Kensington - Invincible magazine editor-in-chief
Ted Kessler - Q magazine reviews editor
Talia Kraines - The Hits and Smash Hits Radio producer, Londonist music editor, Popstarz DJ
Ras Kwame - BBC 1Xtra and Radio 1 DJ
George Lamb - BBC 6 Music DJ
Stuart Last - BBC Radio 1 Jo Whiley producer
Paul Lester - Guardian new bands editor
Luke Lewis - NME.com
Caspar Llewellyn Smith - Observer Music Monthly editor
Geoff Lloyd - Absolute Radio DJ
Janice Long - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Alexia Loundras - The Independent
Laura Lukanz - BBC 1Xtra music manager
Dorian Lynskey - Guardian
Ben Machell - Times
Paul MacInnes - Guardian.co.uk entertainment editor
Paul Mack - The Hits and Smash Hits Radio acting station manager
Gavin Martin - Daily Mirror
Nadine McBay - Metro music editor
John McConnell - Prancehall.com, Guardian.co.uk, The Sun, Vice, NME, Fader
Neil McCormick - Daily Telegraph
Craig McLean - Daily Telegraph, Times, Independent on Sunday, Observer Music Monthly
Conor McNicholas - NME editor
Malik Meer - Guardian Guide editor
Toya Melvina - Toya's World blog
Alexander Milas - Metal Hammer magazine editor
Alex Miller - Vice magazine
Mistajam - BBC 1Xtra DJ
Iain Moffat - Rock Sound, Attitude, The Fly magazines
David Mogendorff - MTV UK talent and music
John Mulvey - Uncut magazine deputy editor, The Times
Jon Myer - BBC 6 Music music manager
Nick Neads - T4 head of music (Channel 4)
Tim Noakes - Dazed & Confused magazine music editor
David O'Coy - Fused magazine editor
Chloe Pearson - BBC Radio 1 music producer
Chris Price - MTV UK head of music programming
Mark Radcliffe - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Becky Reed - Clickmusic.com editor
Paul Rees - Q magazine editor
Marc Riley - BBC 6 Music DJ
John Robinson - Guardian Guide, Uncut magazine
Peter Robinson - Popjustice.com editor
Tom Robinson - BBC 6 Music DJ
Jude Rogers - Guardian, Word, New Statesman, Mercury Prize judge
Joanna Russell - Absolute Radio DJ
Chris Salmon - Guardian
Paul Scaife - Record of the Day editor in chief
Rachel Seagrave - BBC 6 Music scheduler
Victoria Segal - Times
DJ Semtex - BBC 1Xtra DJ
Paul Sexton - Sunday Times Culture, Financial Times, Billboard, Sunday Express
Eddie Shaw - Lincs FM group head of music
Adam Sherwin - The Times People editor
Jeff Smith - BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music head of music
Mike Smith - Nothing But Green Lights blog
David Smyth - London Evening Standard
Huw Stephens - BBC Radio 1 DJ
Paul Stokes - NME news editor
Tom Stroud - The Local Radio Company head of music
Stuart Stubbs - Loud & Quiet magazine editor
Caroline Sullivan - Guardian
Mark Sutherland - Billboard magazine global bureau chief
Jacqui Swift - The Sun's Something For The Weekend
Ashley Tanton - Likesounds.com editor
Darren Taylor - Rock Sound magazine editor
Graeme Thomson - Observer Music Monthly, Word magazines
Adrian Thrills - Daily Mail
Terry Underhill - Guardian Media Group head of music
Tim Vernon - Absolute Radio music producer
Lisa Verrico - Times
Mike Walsh - Xfm head of music
Andy Welch - Press Association music editor
Ben Wolford - Hit Music Network music scheduler
Jonas Woost - Last FM head of music
Mark Adams - Box TV head of music (4Music, The Box, Kiss, Smash Hits, Magic, Q, Kerrang!)
Sean Adams - Drowned in Sound editor-in-chief
Edward Adoo - NME, BBC Asian Network
Henry Barnes - Guardian.co.uk
Mark Beaumont - NME
Joanne Bell - BFBS head of music
Sarah Boden - Observer Music Monthly
Clint Boon - Xfm Manchester DJ
Helen Bownass - More magazine
Paul Brannigan - Kerrang! magazine editor
Lauren Brennan - BBC Radio 1 music scheduler
Lucio Buffone - Capital FM and Hit 40 UK DJ
Jim Butler - Observer Music Monthly, Big Issue
Tim Chipping - HM-PJ music editor (Holy Moly, Popjustice, 4Music)
Stuart Clarke - Music Week magazine talent editor
Richard Clayton - Financial Times, Sunday Times
Greg Cochrane - BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat music reporter
Hattie Collins - RWD magazine editor, i-D music editor, The Guardian, Big Issue
Scott Colothan - Gigwise.com editor
Matt Cook - MTV UK director of talent and music
Andy Cowan - Hip-Hop Connection magazine editor
Will Cozens - Kiss DJ
James Curran - Absolute Radio head of music
Robery D'Ovidio - Heat Radio station manger
Rob Da Bank - BBC Radio 1 DJ, Bestival festival organiser
Kim Dawson - Daily Star Playlist editor
Nick Decosemo - Mixmag editor
Antonio Dellamura - Pyro Radio station manager
Niall Doherty - The Fly magazine editor
Andi Durrant - Galaxy Radio DJ
John Earls - Teletext, News of the World
Ben East - Metro
Rick Edwards - T4 & Xfm presenter
Matilda Egere-Cooper - Independent
George Ergatoudis - BBC Radio 1 head of music
Chantelle Fiddy - Thelondonpaper, Mixmag, i-D, Tank, RWD magazines
Mark Findlay - Capital FM and Hit Music Network head of music
Paul Flynn - Grazia, i-D, Pop, Attitude magazines
James Foley - Record of the Day magazine music editor
Harriet Gibsone - The Fly magazine Ones To Watch editor
Ben Gilbert - Yahoo! Music UK
Sam Grape - Thatgrapejuice.net blog
Phoebe Greenwood - Times music editor
Gareth Grundy - Observer Music Monthly deputy editor
Hanna Hanra - The Pix, i-D, Sunday Times Style
Nigel Harding - BBC Radio 1 music producer
Simon Harper - Clash magazine editor
Bob Harris - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Gary Harrison - Gaydar Radio head of music
Todd Hart - Dalston Oxfam Shop and Der Fresh Creamy blogger
Jaimie Hodgson - NME new music editor
Alison Howe - BBC Later... With Jools Holland producer
Ludovic Hunter Tilney - Financial Times
Lara Hutcheson - Top of the Pops magazine acting editor
Allan Jones - Uncut magazine editor
Tim Jonze - Guardian.co.uk music editor
Anna Karatziva - MTV UK label director, talent and music
Nik Keene - Contactmusic.com editor
John Kennedy - Xfm DJ
Jordan Kensington - Invincible magazine editor-in-chief
Ted Kessler - Q magazine reviews editor
Talia Kraines - The Hits and Smash Hits Radio producer, Londonist music editor, Popstarz DJ
Ras Kwame - BBC 1Xtra and Radio 1 DJ
George Lamb - BBC 6 Music DJ
Stuart Last - BBC Radio 1 Jo Whiley producer
Paul Lester - Guardian new bands editor
Luke Lewis - NME.com
Caspar Llewellyn Smith - Observer Music Monthly editor
Geoff Lloyd - Absolute Radio DJ
Janice Long - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Alexia Loundras - The Independent
Laura Lukanz - BBC 1Xtra music manager
Dorian Lynskey - Guardian
Ben Machell - Times
Paul MacInnes - Guardian.co.uk entertainment editor
Paul Mack - The Hits and Smash Hits Radio acting station manager
Gavin Martin - Daily Mirror
Nadine McBay - Metro music editor
John McConnell - Prancehall.com, Guardian.co.uk, The Sun, Vice, NME, Fader
Neil McCormick - Daily Telegraph
Craig McLean - Daily Telegraph, Times, Independent on Sunday, Observer Music Monthly
Conor McNicholas - NME editor
Malik Meer - Guardian Guide editor
Toya Melvina - Toya's World blog
Alexander Milas - Metal Hammer magazine editor
Alex Miller - Vice magazine
Mistajam - BBC 1Xtra DJ
Iain Moffat - Rock Sound, Attitude, The Fly magazines
David Mogendorff - MTV UK talent and music
John Mulvey - Uncut magazine deputy editor, The Times
Jon Myer - BBC 6 Music music manager
Nick Neads - T4 head of music (Channel 4)
Tim Noakes - Dazed & Confused magazine music editor
David O'Coy - Fused magazine editor
Chloe Pearson - BBC Radio 1 music producer
Chris Price - MTV UK head of music programming
Mark Radcliffe - BBC Radio 2 DJ
Becky Reed - Clickmusic.com editor
Paul Rees - Q magazine editor
Marc Riley - BBC 6 Music DJ
John Robinson - Guardian Guide, Uncut magazine
Peter Robinson - Popjustice.com editor
Tom Robinson - BBC 6 Music DJ
Jude Rogers - Guardian, Word, New Statesman, Mercury Prize judge
Joanna Russell - Absolute Radio DJ
Chris Salmon - Guardian
Paul Scaife - Record of the Day editor in chief
Rachel Seagrave - BBC 6 Music scheduler
Victoria Segal - Times
DJ Semtex - BBC 1Xtra DJ
Paul Sexton - Sunday Times Culture, Financial Times, Billboard, Sunday Express
Eddie Shaw - Lincs FM group head of music
Adam Sherwin - The Times People editor
Jeff Smith - BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music head of music
Mike Smith - Nothing But Green Lights blog
David Smyth - London Evening Standard
Huw Stephens - BBC Radio 1 DJ
Paul Stokes - NME news editor
Tom Stroud - The Local Radio Company head of music
Stuart Stubbs - Loud & Quiet magazine editor
Caroline Sullivan - Guardian
Mark Sutherland - Billboard magazine global bureau chief
Jacqui Swift - The Sun's Something For The Weekend
Ashley Tanton - Likesounds.com editor
Darren Taylor - Rock Sound magazine editor
Graeme Thomson - Observer Music Monthly, Word magazines
Adrian Thrills - Daily Mail
Terry Underhill - Guardian Media Group head of music
Tim Vernon - Absolute Radio music producer
Lisa Verrico - Times
Mike Walsh - Xfm head of music
Andy Welch - Press Association music editor
Ben Wolford - Hit Music Network music scheduler
Jonas Woost - Last FM head of music
Monday, December 29, 2008
Kelly Brook has the body most admired by British women
British women crave for body like that of Kelly Brook, according to a new survey. The TV star, 29, who was voted the sexiest woman in the world in 2005, has a curvy shape most ladies dream of, reports the Sun.
Cameron Diaz’s long legs and Friends star Jennifer Aniston’s hair were also on most women’’s wish list.
The most coveted face was said to be that of Tomb Raider star Angelina Jolie. The poll of 5,000 was conducted by weight-loss pill LIPObind.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Jealous Victoria pulls plug on Beckham's Italian interview
Victoria Beckham might be the 'in girl' of fashion right now, but even she has her own insecurities. Posh spice was reportedly fuming with jealousy when she got to know that husband David has granted permission for an hour long interview with Italy's glamorous TV presenter Ilaria D'Amico.
Beckham who has recently made a move to join European football giant AC Milan was supposed to give his exclusive first interview in the city of Milan, but sources in Italy
claimed jealous Victoria was so angry she pulled the plug on the special hour-long chat.
After a day of confusion, the producers of the show finally revealed that the 'Beckham Show' would go ahead but last for only 15 minutes. The format had been changed "at the request of the Beckham camp," some sources revealed.
Though a spokesman for Posh and Becks dismissed that as "nonsense" and insisted the interview would go ahead as planned. Victoria had a right to fret as earlier David Beckhamhas been involved in some highly publicised extra marital affairs, the most well known being his affair with secretary Rebeca Loos in 2004.
Beckham who has recently made a move to join European football giant AC Milan was supposed to give his exclusive first interview in the city of Milan, but sources in Italy
claimed jealous Victoria was so angry she pulled the plug on the special hour-long chat.
After a day of confusion, the producers of the show finally revealed that the 'Beckham Show' would go ahead but last for only 15 minutes. The format had been changed "at the request of the Beckham camp," some sources revealed.
Though a spokesman for Posh and Becks dismissed that as "nonsense" and insisted the interview would go ahead as planned. Victoria had a right to fret as earlier David Beckhamhas been involved in some highly publicised extra marital affairs, the most well known being his affair with secretary Rebeca Loos in 2004.
Ghajini actress Asin is the new face of Tata Sky
Direct-to-Home operator TataSky announced the appointment of South Indian actress Asin as its brand ambassador, who is yet to make a Bollywood debut
in Aamir Khan's forthcoming film Ghajini.
Now, Asin who is set to conquer Bollywood with her much awaited release Ghajini opposite Aamir Khan will feature across all Tata Sky brand and product communication including advertisements on TV, print, radio and other mediums, said the company in a press release.
TataSky, a joint venture between Tata and media major Star has already signed Aamir Khan earlier July this year. Speaking on it chief marketing officer, Tata Sky Vikram
Mehra said Asin would be very influential for the brand of the company.
"Tata Sky and Asin have a lot in common. Both are young, energetic, achievers, and both enjoy a high degree of credibility with consumers. As our new face, she will be
influential in reinforcing the attributes of the Tata Sky brand and reiterate our positioning," said Mehra.
At present, TataSky with a three million subscriber base is at number two in the DTH market.
in Aamir Khan's forthcoming film Ghajini.
Now, Asin who is set to conquer Bollywood with her much awaited release Ghajini opposite Aamir Khan will feature across all Tata Sky brand and product communication including advertisements on TV, print, radio and other mediums, said the company in a press release.
TataSky, a joint venture between Tata and media major Star has already signed Aamir Khan earlier July this year. Speaking on it chief marketing officer, Tata Sky Vikram
Mehra said Asin would be very influential for the brand of the company.
"Tata Sky and Asin have a lot in common. Both are young, energetic, achievers, and both enjoy a high degree of credibility with consumers. As our new face, she will be
influential in reinforcing the attributes of the Tata Sky brand and reiterate our positioning," said Mehra.
At present, TataSky with a three million subscriber base is at number two in the DTH market.
SRK is scared to work with me: Aamir Khan
The infamous rivalry between the two superstars of Bollywood- Aamir and Shahrukh- is once again hogging the limelight with the former revealing that King Khan is "scared" to work with him.
On the eve of the release of Ghajini, starring Aamir Khan, the actor says he has no qualms about working with Shahrukh, however the actor kept saying no.
"SRK is scared to work with me what to do?" Aamir told Rajeev Masand in a television interview.
Masand had asked the actor on whether audiences could expect to see both the stars together in the near future. The Khans were supposed to work together for director
Rajkumar Santoshi who was apparently writing a script for both of them.
Even director Mansoor Ali Khan and Aamir's cousin wanted to make 'Josh' starring both the Khans but apparently Shahrukh had disagreed.
"He (Shahrukh) kept saying no" said Aamir. However the perfectionist actor Aamir said that he and Shahrukh might work together in future if there is a good script.
"If something interesting comes up and if the script is nice and both of us like our roles, I don't see a problem!" he said.
The Khans were embroiled in a tug-of-war earlier this year with Aamir revealing on his blog that he had named his pet dog as Shahrukh. Meanwhile, Shahrukh Khan had in a public function in Mumbai recently claimed that he was currently the biggest brand in the country and there was no other brand bigger than him.
Now as the year ends the rivalry between the Khans has once again become the talk of the town as Shahrukh's Rab ne bana de jodi which released recently is pitted against Aamir Khan's Ghajini that will hit theatres on Christmas Day.
On the eve of the release of Ghajini, starring Aamir Khan, the actor says he has no qualms about working with Shahrukh, however the actor kept saying no.
"SRK is scared to work with me what to do?" Aamir told Rajeev Masand in a television interview.
Masand had asked the actor on whether audiences could expect to see both the stars together in the near future. The Khans were supposed to work together for director
Rajkumar Santoshi who was apparently writing a script for both of them.
Even director Mansoor Ali Khan and Aamir's cousin wanted to make 'Josh' starring both the Khans but apparently Shahrukh had disagreed.
"He (Shahrukh) kept saying no" said Aamir. However the perfectionist actor Aamir said that he and Shahrukh might work together in future if there is a good script.
"If something interesting comes up and if the script is nice and both of us like our roles, I don't see a problem!" he said.
The Khans were embroiled in a tug-of-war earlier this year with Aamir revealing on his blog that he had named his pet dog as Shahrukh. Meanwhile, Shahrukh Khan had in a public function in Mumbai recently claimed that he was currently the biggest brand in the country and there was no other brand bigger than him.
Now as the year ends the rivalry between the Khans has once again become the talk of the town as Shahrukh's Rab ne bana de jodi which released recently is pitted against Aamir Khan's Ghajini that will hit theatres on Christmas Day.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
'Baywatch' creators search for next Pamela Anderson
The creators of famous TV show 'Baywatch' are looking for the next Pamela Anderson to star in the new version of the series, which is based in New Zealand.
The pilot episode, which will have local actors, is still untitled. The producers are on the hunt for the next Baywatch babe, according to the New York Post.
Producer Walter Brown, who has partnered with creator Greg Bonnan on the series, said, "Baywatch had all the elements to be extraordinarily successful in its day. Of course every producer hopes for that kind of success and, personally, I think New Zealand has the magic to do it."
Anderson became a international sensation after landing the role of lifeguard C J Parker in the 1990s series.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Ashwathy: Fazil's latest discovery
Director Fazil, who is famous for having introduced some of the biggest names in films in South India, including superstar Mohanlal (Manjil Virinja Pookkal), Nadia Moidu (Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu), Shalini Ajith (Ente Mamattukkuttiyammakku), Kunchacko Boban (Aniyathipraavu) and Nagma (Killer), is all set to introduce yet another face: Ashwathy Ashok.
Ashwathy, TV anchor and a final year graduate student at St. Theresa's College, Ernakulam, will be launched on the big screen with the upcoming Moss D. Samuel, a comedy entertainer starring actor Dileep in the lead. Reports said that this bubbly young actress was in fact Fazil's choice for his Tamil flick, which has yet to begin.
Ashwathy dons the role of Nandana, a bold yet sweet and lovable girl in this film which revolves around two thieves, Moss D. Samuel (Dileep) and Kunninmel Sankaran (Harisree Asokan). Other cast members include Baby Niveditha, Janardhanan, Sudheesh, Anoop Chandran, Krishna Kumar and Sudheer.
Veteran music director Ouseppachan will set music for lyrics written by Kaithapram. Camera is handled by Anandakuttan. Moss D. Samuel, shooting for which has already commenced, is expected to grace theatres on January 26, 2009.
Ashwathy, TV anchor and a final year graduate student at St. Theresa's College, Ernakulam, will be launched on the big screen with the upcoming Moss D. Samuel, a comedy entertainer starring actor Dileep in the lead. Reports said that this bubbly young actress was in fact Fazil's choice for his Tamil flick, which has yet to begin.
Ashwathy dons the role of Nandana, a bold yet sweet and lovable girl in this film which revolves around two thieves, Moss D. Samuel (Dileep) and Kunninmel Sankaran (Harisree Asokan). Other cast members include Baby Niveditha, Janardhanan, Sudheesh, Anoop Chandran, Krishna Kumar and Sudheer.
Veteran music director Ouseppachan will set music for lyrics written by Kaithapram. Camera is handled by Anandakuttan. Moss D. Samuel, shooting for which has already commenced, is expected to grace theatres on January 26, 2009.
Toshi Sabri sings in 'Raaz - The Mystery Continues'
Singer Toshi Sabri, who enthralled TV viewers with his soulful and powerful voice on music reality show “Voice of India”, has now teamed up with his brother Sharib to score a song for forthcoming thriller “Raaz - The Mystery Continues”.
While Sharib has composed the music for the opening song “Maahi” for the film, Toshi has lent vocals to it. The song is a haunting melody picturised on the lead actors - Emraan Hashmi and Kangana Ranaut.
“It was our dream to become a part of Bollywood and when we got this opportunity, we really couldn't believe our good fortune. We truly feel blessed and extremely lucky,” Toshi said in a statement.
Toshi, who hails from Rajasthan, has participated in three major TV reality shows - “Voice of India”, “Ustadon Ke Ustad” and “Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar”. Despite his popularity among the masses, he failed to win any of these.
Mukesh Bhatt, who has produced “Raaz - The Mystery Continues” said he is quite impressed with the song which Toshi and his brother have worked upon.
“We try to give a chance to budding talents so that our audience gets something new and refreshing all the time. A well-made film means one which scores high on story, acting as well as the music.
“I think both Sharib and Toshi are fantastic musicians and it's been a great pleasure working with them for our film,” Bhatt said.
The music album of the film will hit stores Wednesday. Directed by Mohit Suri and co-presented by music label Sony BMG, the film is expected to release in January next year.
While Sharib has composed the music for the opening song “Maahi” for the film, Toshi has lent vocals to it. The song is a haunting melody picturised on the lead actors - Emraan Hashmi and Kangana Ranaut.
“It was our dream to become a part of Bollywood and when we got this opportunity, we really couldn't believe our good fortune. We truly feel blessed and extremely lucky,” Toshi said in a statement.
Toshi, who hails from Rajasthan, has participated in three major TV reality shows - “Voice of India”, “Ustadon Ke Ustad” and “Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar”. Despite his popularity among the masses, he failed to win any of these.
Mukesh Bhatt, who has produced “Raaz - The Mystery Continues” said he is quite impressed with the song which Toshi and his brother have worked upon.
“We try to give a chance to budding talents so that our audience gets something new and refreshing all the time. A well-made film means one which scores high on story, acting as well as the music.
“I think both Sharib and Toshi are fantastic musicians and it's been a great pleasure working with them for our film,” Bhatt said.
The music album of the film will hit stores Wednesday. Directed by Mohit Suri and co-presented by music label Sony BMG, the film is expected to release in January next year.
UTV sole distributor for Disney movies in India
UTV Motion Pictures has entered into an exclusive pact with Hollywood production house Walt Disney for sale and distribution of all Disney movies in India from January 2009, the companies announced on Tuesday.
The announcement was jointly made by Walt Disney Co. India senior vice-president and managing director Mahesh Samat, Walt Disney Motion Pictures International (sales and distribution) president Anthony Marcoly and UTV Motion Pictures chief executive Siddharth Roy Kapur.
The announcement was jointly made by Walt Disney Co. India senior vice-president and managing director Mahesh Samat, Walt Disney Motion Pictures International (sales and distribution) president Anthony Marcoly and UTV Motion Pictures chief executive Siddharth Roy Kapur.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Singer Webbe leaves jungle show
Singer Simon Webbe has become the eighth person to be voted off I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!
The former member of boyband Blue said he felt "relief" at leaving and did not think he'd last as long in the jungle.
Despite going on the show to face his fears, he confessed he was still "terrified of spiders" and had not conquered his fear of water.
He backed Wimbledon ace Martina Navratilova or former EastEnders actor Joe Swash to win the reality show.
Speaking to hosts Ant and Dec after his eviction, he said: "Ever since I was in there I didn't think I'd last this long.
'Pressure cooker'
"I really enjoyed it, but it wasn't what I expected - I didn't think I'd snap as much as I did. I'm normally a cool character, I know how to keep my temper in check, but I felt my buttons were being pushed," he said.
The singer said the bush tucker trials were harder than he thought they would be.
Despite his fear of water, Webbe won six out of seven stars for the camp on the underwater Last Gasp trial, but had to receive oxygen from medics on site afterwards.
The star added the camp was a lot smaller than it looked on TV: "You're living on top of each other and that's a pressure cooker in itself."
But he also described ex-Dollar singer David Van Day as "a nice guy underneath it all", although he was "here to play the game".
Navratilova, Swash, Van Day and Star Trek actor George Takei remain in the show.
The winner, voted for by the public, will be revealed during a live show on Friday night.
The former member of boyband Blue said he felt "relief" at leaving and did not think he'd last as long in the jungle.
Despite going on the show to face his fears, he confessed he was still "terrified of spiders" and had not conquered his fear of water.
He backed Wimbledon ace Martina Navratilova or former EastEnders actor Joe Swash to win the reality show.
Speaking to hosts Ant and Dec after his eviction, he said: "Ever since I was in there I didn't think I'd last this long.
'Pressure cooker'
"I really enjoyed it, but it wasn't what I expected - I didn't think I'd snap as much as I did. I'm normally a cool character, I know how to keep my temper in check, but I felt my buttons were being pushed," he said.
The singer said the bush tucker trials were harder than he thought they would be.
Despite his fear of water, Webbe won six out of seven stars for the camp on the underwater Last Gasp trial, but had to receive oxygen from medics on site afterwards.
The star added the camp was a lot smaller than it looked on TV: "You're living on top of each other and that's a pressure cooker in itself."
But he also described ex-Dollar singer David Van Day as "a nice guy underneath it all", although he was "here to play the game".
Navratilova, Swash, Van Day and Star Trek actor George Takei remain in the show.
The winner, voted for by the public, will be revealed during a live show on Friday night.
Russell Brand wins British Comedy Award
Controversial comedian Russell Brand has won the best live stand-up award at the British Comedy Awards.
Brand took the prestigious title in the wake of the row over the prank calls he and TV host Jonathan Ross made to actor Andrew Sachs on Brand's Radio 2 show.
Brand resigned from the BBC following the incident and Ross was suspended from all BBC duties for 12 weeks.
Accepting his award from Adam Sandler in LA, Brand said: "I would like to dedicate this award to Jonathan Ross."
He continued: "There are no comedy awards without Jonathan Ross, he is the king-maker."
Brand, who is now pursuing his Hollywood movie career, asked Sandler if he would like to do a radio show - to huge laughter.
Angus Deayton hosted this year's awards show at the London Television Studios, standing in for Ross, who stepped down after his BBC suspension.
This is beneath me to be honest: I've won real awards, Golden Globes and Emmys
Ricky Gervais, Best Television Comedy Actor
Full list of winners
Ross may not have been at the ceremony but Deayton lost no time in making jokes about the reasons for his absence.
"Normally at awards shows, it's the winners that can't be here but this time it's the host," he said.
He said Ross must be waiting at home anxiously wondering if the phone would ever ring again - giving him an insight into the life of his brother Paul Ross.
Deayton said Brand could not be at the awards as he was on a beach in Hawaii - no doubt "distraught" at losing his Radio 2 slot.
Ricky Gervais won the coveted title of Best Television Comedy Actor for last year's Extras Christmas Special.
Gervais could not accept his award in person and had instead prepared a video message.
Sitting in a regal-looking bed in his pyjamas, Gervais joked: "I can't be bothered to be here, there in person.
"This is beneath me to be honest: I've won real awards, Golden Globes and Emmys."
He went on to raise howls of laughter from the London audience, as he revealed pop singer George Michael was in the bed with him.
Michael was just one of the many famous faces to have taken part in Extras, thereby agreeing to be the butt of many of the jokes in the episode concerned.
'Good friend'
Sharon Horgan won the award for Best Comedy Entertainment Actress for the BBC show Pulling.
Alan Carr won the award for Best Comedy Entertainment Personality.
Carr is best known for hosting TV shows the Sunday Night Project and Celebrity Ding Dong.
Accepting his award from US actor Alec Baldwin, Carr said: "Thank you ever so much, see you on Celeb Air."
Harry Hill's TV Burp won the award for the Best Comedy Entertainment Programme, for which Friday Night with Jonathan Ross had also been shortlisted.
Ross's show was criticised last month by the BBC Trust for the use of lewd language in separate interviews with Gwyneth Paltrow and Michael Aspel.
"He was not necessarily a household name but he should have been," said Deayton.
The award was accepted by Perkins's daughter Charlotte who said her father would have been "extremely surprised and utterly honoured to receive this award".
She added that her father loved everything about his work.
Frank Skinner came to the stage to announce Gavin and Stacey as the winner of the Best TV Comedy Award.
Skinner joked to Deayton: "Your suspension's dragging on a bit."
Deayton hosted BBC One's Have I Got News For You until he was axed in 2002 over newspaper revelations he had used cocaine and prostitutes.
Hollywood actress and the Licks singer Juliette Lewis presented Best Comedy Drama of 2008 to darkly comic BBC Three show Drop Dead Gorgeous.
Best New British Comedy went to The Inbetweeners, a series about a group of teenagers.
Best Male Comedy Newcomer of 2008 also went to the show's Simon Bird.
Katy Brand won Best Female Comedy Newcomer for Katy Brand's Big Ass Show.
Golden Balls host Jasper Carrott picked up a Lifetime Achievement Award, handed to him by actor Robert Powell.
Television writer David Renwick, who is known for One Foot in the Grave as well as mystery series Jonathan Creek, was given the Ronnie Barker Writers' Guild of Great Britain Award.
Striking a poignant note in the night's proceedings was the Outstanding Contribution to Comedy award.
This was given posthumously to comedy producer Geoffrey Perkins who died in a road crash earlier this year, aged 55.
Best newcomers
Perkins was the comic genius behind many of British TV's best-loved comedy shows, including Father Ted, the Catherine Tate show and the Fast Show.
Deayton, who had worked with Perkins on many occasions, paid tribute to his "good friend".
Brand took the prestigious title in the wake of the row over the prank calls he and TV host Jonathan Ross made to actor Andrew Sachs on Brand's Radio 2 show.
Brand resigned from the BBC following the incident and Ross was suspended from all BBC duties for 12 weeks.
Accepting his award from Adam Sandler in LA, Brand said: "I would like to dedicate this award to Jonathan Ross."
He continued: "There are no comedy awards without Jonathan Ross, he is the king-maker."
Brand, who is now pursuing his Hollywood movie career, asked Sandler if he would like to do a radio show - to huge laughter.
Angus Deayton hosted this year's awards show at the London Television Studios, standing in for Ross, who stepped down after his BBC suspension.
This is beneath me to be honest: I've won real awards, Golden Globes and Emmys
Ricky Gervais, Best Television Comedy Actor
Full list of winners
Ross may not have been at the ceremony but Deayton lost no time in making jokes about the reasons for his absence.
"Normally at awards shows, it's the winners that can't be here but this time it's the host," he said.
He said Ross must be waiting at home anxiously wondering if the phone would ever ring again - giving him an insight into the life of his brother Paul Ross.
Deayton said Brand could not be at the awards as he was on a beach in Hawaii - no doubt "distraught" at losing his Radio 2 slot.
Ricky Gervais won the coveted title of Best Television Comedy Actor for last year's Extras Christmas Special.
Gervais could not accept his award in person and had instead prepared a video message.
Sitting in a regal-looking bed in his pyjamas, Gervais joked: "I can't be bothered to be here, there in person.
"This is beneath me to be honest: I've won real awards, Golden Globes and Emmys."
He went on to raise howls of laughter from the London audience, as he revealed pop singer George Michael was in the bed with him.
Michael was just one of the many famous faces to have taken part in Extras, thereby agreeing to be the butt of many of the jokes in the episode concerned.
'Good friend'
Sharon Horgan won the award for Best Comedy Entertainment Actress for the BBC show Pulling.
Alan Carr won the award for Best Comedy Entertainment Personality.
Carr is best known for hosting TV shows the Sunday Night Project and Celebrity Ding Dong.
Accepting his award from US actor Alec Baldwin, Carr said: "Thank you ever so much, see you on Celeb Air."
Harry Hill's TV Burp won the award for the Best Comedy Entertainment Programme, for which Friday Night with Jonathan Ross had also been shortlisted.
Ross's show was criticised last month by the BBC Trust for the use of lewd language in separate interviews with Gwyneth Paltrow and Michael Aspel.
"He was not necessarily a household name but he should have been," said Deayton.
The award was accepted by Perkins's daughter Charlotte who said her father would have been "extremely surprised and utterly honoured to receive this award".
She added that her father loved everything about his work.
Frank Skinner came to the stage to announce Gavin and Stacey as the winner of the Best TV Comedy Award.
Skinner joked to Deayton: "Your suspension's dragging on a bit."
Deayton hosted BBC One's Have I Got News For You until he was axed in 2002 over newspaper revelations he had used cocaine and prostitutes.
Hollywood actress and the Licks singer Juliette Lewis presented Best Comedy Drama of 2008 to darkly comic BBC Three show Drop Dead Gorgeous.
Best New British Comedy went to The Inbetweeners, a series about a group of teenagers.
Best Male Comedy Newcomer of 2008 also went to the show's Simon Bird.
Katy Brand won Best Female Comedy Newcomer for Katy Brand's Big Ass Show.
Golden Balls host Jasper Carrott picked up a Lifetime Achievement Award, handed to him by actor Robert Powell.
Television writer David Renwick, who is known for One Foot in the Grave as well as mystery series Jonathan Creek, was given the Ronnie Barker Writers' Guild of Great Britain Award.
Striking a poignant note in the night's proceedings was the Outstanding Contribution to Comedy award.
This was given posthumously to comedy producer Geoffrey Perkins who died in a road crash earlier this year, aged 55.
Best newcomers
Perkins was the comic genius behind many of British TV's best-loved comedy shows, including Father Ted, the Catherine Tate show and the Fast Show.
Deayton, who had worked with Perkins on many occasions, paid tribute to his "good friend".
Angelina Jolie 'best-paid' movie actress
Film star Angelina Jolie commands the biggest salary for Hollywood actresses, according to an annual list published by the Hollywood Reporter.
Jolie can expect to make $15m (£10.2m) a film, ahead of Julia Roberts and 2007 list winner Reece Witherspoon.
Oscar winners Nicole Kidman and Halle Berry are no longer able to make $10m (£6.8m), says the industry publication.
But male stars are outstripping their female counterparts, with Will Smith able to make $25m (£17m) for a movie.
Waning salaries
Jolie's partner Brad Pitt is able to make up to $20m (£13.6m) for each star vehicle.
Jolie, 33, currently starring in Clint Eastwood's Changeling, made $15m for Wanted and could increase her pay-out to $20m for a sequel, said the Hollywood Reporter.
The actress finished in second spot in last year's ratings.
Other actresses in the top flight are Cameron Diaz, Katherine Heigl, Kate Hudson, Anne Hathaway and former Friends star Jennifer Aniston, who made $8 (£5.44m) for comedy Marley and Me, due to open on Christmas Day in the US.
The publication added that salaries of key actresses are on the wane and are still lagging Hollywood's leading men.
It also published its annual list of the most powerful women in US entertainment, in which talk show host Oprah Winfrey came out on top.
The TV star and media mogul was credited for her "immense cultural influence".
Jolie can expect to make $15m (£10.2m) a film, ahead of Julia Roberts and 2007 list winner Reece Witherspoon.
Oscar winners Nicole Kidman and Halle Berry are no longer able to make $10m (£6.8m), says the industry publication.
But male stars are outstripping their female counterparts, with Will Smith able to make $25m (£17m) for a movie.
Waning salaries
Jolie's partner Brad Pitt is able to make up to $20m (£13.6m) for each star vehicle.
Jolie, 33, currently starring in Clint Eastwood's Changeling, made $15m for Wanted and could increase her pay-out to $20m for a sequel, said the Hollywood Reporter.
The actress finished in second spot in last year's ratings.
Other actresses in the top flight are Cameron Diaz, Katherine Heigl, Kate Hudson, Anne Hathaway and former Friends star Jennifer Aniston, who made $8 (£5.44m) for comedy Marley and Me, due to open on Christmas Day in the US.
The publication added that salaries of key actresses are on the wane and are still lagging Hollywood's leading men.
It also published its annual list of the most powerful women in US entertainment, in which talk show host Oprah Winfrey came out on top.
The TV star and media mogul was credited for her "immense cultural influence".
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
