Q and A: Week of Jan. 12

READERS: It’s time for a CONTEST. Supernatural-mystery writer Victoria Laurie — who just so happens to be my favorite author of this particular genre — has been kind enough to autograph TWO copies of her latest book, “When,” for TWO of my lucky readers. Laurie is the author of the Psychic Eye series, as well as the Ghoul Hunter series, and she has just written an entirely new book (which I hope becomes a series) for her young-adult audience. But young adult doesn’t mean it’s a kiddie book.

“When” is told from the point of view of Maddie, a high school student who, when she looks at someone, sees a series of digits floating just above his or her brow, with the digits representing the date that person will die. She and her mom, struggling to make ends meet, use her talent to make extra money. Things get scary when a woman comes to ask about her sick daughter. While Maddie has good news about her daughter — she’ll get better and live a long life — the woman’s middle son is a another story. His deathdate is within days, he soon goes missing, and the FBI thinks Maddie is involved.

To enter to win an autographed copy of this book — which hits store shelves tomorrow, Jan. 13 — just answer this question: If Maddie could tell you your deathdate, would you want to know? There are four ways to enter (and you can do all four): Send a letter to Cindy Elavsky, KFWS, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475; email letters@cindyelavsky.com; follow me on Twitter (twitter.com/Celebrity_Extra) and tweet your reply to me; and follow my FB fan page and post your answer there.

Q: I thought I had read a while back that a movie about the life of Whitney Houston was going to be made. Is that still happening? — Freesia L., via email

A: It is indeed, and Lifetime is the station that will bring the story of the life of the critically acclaimed songstress whose life was tragically cut short in February 2012. Angela Bassett makes her directorial debut with the Lifetime Original Movie “Whitney,” featuring Yaya DaCosta (“Lee Daniels’ The Butler”) in the lead role, with Arlen Escarpeta (“Final Destination 5”) alongside her as Bobby Brown. The much-anticipated world premiere will be on Saturday, Jan. 17, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. “Whitney” chronicles the headline-making relationship between the iconic singer, actress, producer, and model Whitney Houston and singer and songwriter Bobby Brown, from the time they first met at the very height of their celebrity to their courtship and tumultuous marriage. Throughout it all, difficulties followed the superstar couple while they dealt with the overwhelming rewards and consequences of the fame and fortune created by Houston’s meteoric rise, which would soon overshadow them both.

Q: Is it true the J.K. Rowling’s latest book series is going to be turned into a movie? — Hal R., Albany, NY

A: Not a movie, Hal, but a series. BBC announced last month that they are going to adapt Rowling’s Cormoran Strike novels into a series, beginning with the first book, “The Cuckoo’s Calling.” Rowling will collaborate on the project in conjunction with BBC and Brontë Film and TV. Brontë Film and TV is also producing Rowling’s “The Casual Vacancy” adaptation, a three-part series that will air on BBC One in this February. There’s no word yet when either series will be available in the U.S., but I’m hoping they’ve worked out some sort of deal with PBS (or another station), where we get to see it here across the Pond a few months later that the Brits.

Q: When will “The Walking Dead” return from winter hiatus? I am going through serious withdrawals here! — Larry E., Orlando, Fla.

A: You’ll have to wait just a little bit longer, Larry. Season five continues on Feb. 8 on AMC. Series star Andrew Lincoln told “TV Guide” that this half of the season contains two episodes that are probably his favorite since the pilot episode. Sounds great to me!

Chris Pratt as Johnny Karate

Q: Can you tell me when “Parks and Recreation” will be back? I thought it had one more season. — Daniel G., via email

A: “Parks and Rec” will be back for a 13-episode seventh (and final) season tomorrow, Jan. 13 at 8 p.m. ET. The season begins in the year 2017, with the town of Pawnee not quite the same as when we left it in 2014. Chris Pratt’s fun-loving and dim-witted character of Andy stars in a Johnny Karate TV show (see pic on left); Leslie and Ben have toddler triplets; and Tom is a mogul of some sort. Jon Hamm, Rashida Jones, Rob Lowe, Megan Mullally and Natalie Morales will all pop up during the show’s final season.

Q: I keep hearing great things about the FX series “Fargo,” but I don’t have cable. Is it out on DVD, or is there another way I can watch it? — Frannie D., Springfield, Ill.

A: Season one of this wonderful FX drama/suspense series — which just won the Golden Globe for Best Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television — stars Billy Bob Thornton (who also won for Best Actor), Colin Hanks, Allison Tolman and Martin Freeman, and is now available on DVD. And Hulu recently announced that it has acquired the streaming rights for the series. No exact date has been announced, only that we should be on the lookout for it ahead of the series’ season two premiere this fall on FX.

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Q and A: Week of Sept. 30

Q: One of my favorite shows is AMC’s “Hell on Wheels.” Can you give me any clues about the season finale? — Holly F., via email

A: Well, I don’t want to give too much away and spoil the surprise! But I did speak recently with series regular Kasha Kropinski (who plays Ruth), and she gave me a little tease as to what to expect as the season winds down. The South African beauty (who is a total sweetheart!) told me: “People are going to be totally and utterly shocked by what happens in these last few episodes. It is totally left field what transpires. I think that people already have created an idea of what they think is going to happen. But I don’t think anyone could come up with what actually transpires.”

“Some new relationships develop; some unexpected relationships come to fruition. Expect some death and destruction, as usual — it is ‘Hell on Wheels,’ after all. I don’t think that’s a spoiler at all. Just hold onto your socks because they might blow off.” Check back later this week for the full interview.

Q: I was heartbroken when you announced that TNT had not renewed ”Monday “Mornings.” I spent 46 years as a registered nurse, mostly in a hospital, in various areas. This was the only hospital-based show I have been able to watch past the first episodes. I appreciated the doctors being challenged about decisions and outcomes. — Elizabeth B., via email

A: I have received quite a few letters expressing dismay over the cancelation of “Monday Mornings.” This series hit home with a lot of viewers, but apparently not enough for the numbers people at TNT. I miss the days when networks gave shows longer that one season to build an audience, and gain momentum and a following. Imagine if “The Office” had debuted this season instead of 10 years ago: With the low numbers the show’s first season brought in, it would have been canceled in a flash. Just imagine all the great television we’d have missed out on!

Q: I feel like I’ve been waiting forever. When will “Awkward” return with new episodes? — Nicole F., Athens, Ga.

A: MTV’s hit comedy returns from its summer hiatus on Tuesday, Oct. 22, at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT with 10 new episodes to round out the third season.

READERS: It’s time for another contest! In honor of “China Beach” finally being released on DVD, I’m giving away four copies of the first season to four lucky readers. There are four ways to win, and you can enter once via each method. You can send me a letter: Cindy Elavsky, King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475; enter at letters@cindyelavsky.com; follow me on Twitter at twitter.com/celebrity_extra to get details; and like my FB page for details http://www.facebook.com/pages/Celebrity-Extra/152752278792. All those who enter are eligible for the grand-prize drawing to win a box set of the entire series! Get your entries in and/or postmarked by Oct. 31.

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Q and A: Week of Sept. 9

Readers: Our summer reading contest has come to a close, and I want to thank you all for entering. One winner, drawn at random, won an autographed copy of Rainbow Rowell’s critically acclaimed sophomore effort “Eleanor and Park.” And that winner is Linda R. of The Villages, Florida.

If you read my review of “Eleanor and Park,” then you know that I love the book, and why. I spoke with Rainbow about her feelings while writing it, and she told me: “With this book, I do remember saying that I wanted people to feel in their stomach that feeling of being in love for the first time. When you’re at that age where even if you’re not actually in love, you feel those feelings so deeply. I honestly think you have the capacity to feel love and infatuation and all of those feelings to a much greater capacity when you’re that age — that intense first love, like every cell in your body is part of it.”

And if you want to explore more of Rainbow’s writings, her third book, “Fangirl,” was just released yesterday (check back here soon for my review, as well as my entire interview with Rainbow). And while I don’t like to play favorites, I think I might like “Fangirl” even more than “Eleanor and Park.”

Q: I think I’ve read this question in your column before, but I can’t remember your answer. Will “China Beach” ever be released on DVD? I loved that series, and I wish I could watch it again. — Beverly W., via e-mail

A: I’ve gotten scores of letters asking that same question, and I finally have a definitive answer for you: On Oct. 1, fans can finally own the critically acclaimed, Dana Delany-starring hit series. For the show’s 25th anniversary, the complete series will be available in a 21-disc collector’s set in stores and online. You can also buy them one season at a time, if you prefer, but the collector’s set is way cool.

Q: With Halloween approaching, it got me to wondering if Catherine Bell will be in another “Good Witch” movie on the Hallmark Channel? Those are my favorite. — Betty S., Tulsa, Okla.

A: Catherine and company will return to the Hallmark Channel on Oct. 26 with “The Good Witch’s Destiny.” In this sixth installment of the series, all Cassie Nightingale (Catherine) wants for her birthday is for her family and friends to be together. As her special day approaches, Lori discovers signs of a curse looming over Cassie. Check back in October for my exclusive interview with Catherine where I'll get all the details!

Q: You mentioned a show set in the 1940s about the mafia that was supposed to air on TNT called “Lost Angels,” but I can’t find mention of it anywhere. Can you help? — Douglas B. in Ohio

A: The latest TNT drama has been renamed “Mob City” and is set to premiere Dec. 4. The show centers on the epic battle between a determined police chief and a dangerous mobster that inflames 1940s Los Angeles, and stars Jon Bernthal, Neal McDonough and Ed Burns.

Q: Can you tell me what to look forward to in the next season of “The Mindy Project”? Will she still be with Casey? — Deanna W., via e-mail

A: Well, it looks as if Mindy and Casey might be kaput after returning from their yearlong good-will trip to Haiti. “Justified” star Timothy Olyphant has signed on to guest star as a love interest of Mindy. Viewers will note that this isn’t Timothy’s first foray into sitcoms — he guest-starred on two episodes of “The Office” back in 2010.

Head over to Hulu to get a sneak peek at the entire first episode of the season, which returns to Fox on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 9:30/8:30c.

Q: You mentioned a while back that “Eastbound and Down” had been resurrected for a fourth season. Can you tell me when it’ll premiere? — Donnie R., via e-mail

A: Danny McBride and his glorious mullet will be back for eight new raucous episodes beginning Sept. 29 on HBO for its “epic final season.” Lindsay Lohan is set to make a cameo (as who, I won’t say, so as not to spoil it for you).

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Q and A: Week of July 15

Q: What has Dirk Benedict, from the original “A-Team,” been doing lately? — Arlene in Rochester, N.Y.

A: Dirk, who also starred in the original “Battlestar Galactica,” has been embracing his sci-fi roots in recent years. He’s provided his vocal talents for a number of “Battlestar”-related videogames, attended numerous sci-fi conventions and co-starred in the original SyFy channel movie “Earthstorm.” Also, if you saw the 2010 big-screen version of “The A-Team,” then you know he made a cameo appearance, dispensing helpful tanning advice to the new “Face,” Bradley Cooper.

Q: I just read that production on “Hell on Wheels” might be delayed due to flooding in Calgary, where the series is filmed. Do you have any info on that? — Windell S., Port Wentworth, Ga.

A: Production of the Western — which centers on the settlement that accompanied the building of the transcontinental railroad on 1865 — was delayed a bit as rising waters flooded the show’s set. Instead of season three premiering on AMC on Aug. 3, it has been pushed back to Saturday, Aug. 10. The two-hour season premiere begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

Q: Please tell me “Monday Mornings” will be back on TV soon. I really have missed that show! — F. Gill, via e-mail

A: I am sorry to have to tell you that the medical drama — which was based on the novel of the same name by CNN’s chief medical correspondent, journalist and neurosurgeon Sanjay Gupta — has been canceled after only one season on TNT. Even with the star power of Ving Rhames and Alfred Molina, it couldn’t survive its dismal ratings. 

CONTEST!

Readers: For most of us, this summer has been a scorcher! And I can tell you that my list of summertime books to read is even hotter than my summer has been. While I can go on and on about my favorite beach reads this year — the list is long and distinguished — there is one that is head and shoulders above the rest: Rainbow Rowell’s “Eleanor and Park.”

I’ve been following Rainbow since her debut novel, “Attachments,” made me late to work a few mornings because I was up too late reading the night before, and her sophomore effort is no different. “Eleanor and Park,” which is set in 1986, is a beautiful story of discovery and first love. (Go to www.celebrityextraonline.com/p/reviews.html to read my review of the book.)

One of my lucky readers will have a chance to win an autographed copy of this book, so you can fall in love for the first time all over again. Entering the contest is simple: Email me at letters@cindyelavsky.com and tell me which book(s) made you fall in love with reading. You can also send me a snail-mail letter — ATTN: Cindy Elavsky, KFWS, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Entries must be received by Aug. 31.

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Q and A: Week of Aug. 27

Q: I’ve really been looking forward to Leonardo DiCaprio’s “The Great Gatsby” coming out for Christmas, but now I hear it’s been postponed. Why the delay, and when will it come out? — Cassandra W., via e-mail

A: The Baz Luhrmann 3-D adaptation of the classic novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald — which also stars Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton — is now slated for a summer 2013 release. Warner Bros. president of distribution, Dan Fellman, reasoned: “We think moviegoers of all ages are going to embrace it, and it makes sense to ensure this unique film reaches the largest audience possible” [by giving it a summer release].

Q: I just watched the season finale of “Rizzoli & Isles,” and already I can’t wait for the next season. Please tell me it has been renewed for a fourth season! — Dottie R., Roanoke, Va.

A: I am happy to report that there will indeed be a fourth season of TNT’s hit drama, which stars Angie Harmon and Sasha Alexander. The summer’s No. 1 returning scripted drama will be back in summer 2013 for another 15 episodes of mystery-solving fun. TNT has proved to be a summer force to be reckoned with, with such original scripted hits as “R & I,” “Falling Skies,” “Perception,” “Dallas” and more shows that are smashing viewing records all over the place.

Q: Can you tell me what one of my favorite actors, Gabriel Byrne, has been up to since “In Treatment”? What can I see him in? — Roger T., via e-mail

A: The talented Irishman stars in the new History channel scripted series called “Vikings,” which is based upon a real-life Viking king named Ragnar Lothbrok — played by Travis Fimmel — who literally exploded out of Scandinavia and onto the world stage in the 8th century. A young Norwegian farmer with a wife and family, Lothbrok is deeply frustrated by the unadventurous policies of his local chieftain, Earl Haraldson (played by Gabriel), who continues to send his Viking raiders east every summer, to the Baltic states and Russia, whose populations are as materially poor as themselves. Haraldson and Lothbrok become adversaries as Lothbrok’s ambitions threaten Haraldson’s rule. The series — now filming in Ireland — also stars Jessalyn Gilsig, Gustaf Skarsgard, Clive Standen and Katheryn Winnick. It is set for a 2013 release.

Readers: A few months back, I held a contest for one reader to win the great summer read “Eat, Drink, and Be Married” by Rebecca Bloom. After sifting through the entries, I have randomly chosen a winner: Dorine T. of Terryville, Conn. Be on the lookout for your book, and I hope you enjoy it! All others who’d like to get in one last summer pleasure, head to amazon.com and order a copy for yourself — and maybe one for a friend. And go to www.celebrityextraonline.com to read my full interview with the talented author, and to see what she has coming up next.

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Q and A: Week of June 25

Timothy Hutton

Q: When will my favorite show, “Leverage,” be back with new episodes? — Paul T., via e-mail

A: The premiere of season five of the hit TNT show will be Sunday, July 15, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. This year brings 10 all-new episodes starring your favorite gang of thieves, grifters and con artists led by Academy Award-winner Timothy Hutton, along with Gina Bellman, Christian Kane, Beth Riesgraf and Aldis Hodge. This season promises to deliver high action and intrigue — and maybe some more romance — as well as big-name guest stars, such as Cary Elwes and Treat Williams.

Q: Is it true that Matthew McConaughey finally tied the knot? — Tina R., via e-mail

A: Lustful ladies all over the world had to give up the dream of becoming Mrs. M. in early June, when Matthew married longtime girlfriend — and mother of son Levi, 3, and daughter Vida, 2 — Camilla Alves in an intimate ceremony at the couple’s home in Austin, Texas.

Q: What’s next for the beautiful Andie MacDowell? It seems I see her only on hair color/make-up commercials anymore, and I really miss seeing her in movies. — Britta, Fairview, Mich.

A: Andie just started production in mid-June on the new Hallmark Channel original series “Cedar Cove,” which is based on the best-selling book series of the same name by Debbie Macomber. Andie will star as Judge Olivia Lockhart, whose Cedar Cove Municipal Court is the professional milieu and social microcosm of issues the judge will face in her own day-to-day life with family and friends. The series kicks off with a two-hour pilot, scheduled to air at the end of the year, with a weekly one-hour series to follow in early 2013.

Readers: For your summertime reading pleasure, I want to give one lucky reader a copy of Rebecca Bloom’s “Eat, Drink, and Be Married.” Simply e-mail me at letters@cindyelavsky.com by July 31, and tell me your favorite beach read. This contest isn’t just for the ladies, although many beach books are classified as “chick lit.”


I asked Rebecca if it bothered her to have books pigeonholed as “chick lit.” She told me: “I was offended by it before, but because I thought, ‘Why does it have to be classified?’ But now I’m much more of a realist than when I started writing, and you have to do whatever you can to market your book. It’s a way to classify and sell, and ultimately, that’s what any writer should want. So, I’m not as against it. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with celebrating women with your writing. ‘The Help’ was awesome, and that was a chick flick and chick lit, so if my book is classified as chick lit, that’s fine with me.”

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Q and A: Week of June 27

Leeza on Dancing with the Stars (credit ABC)

Q: I was wondering what one of my favorite TV hosts, Leeza Gibbons, has been up to lately. Is there a show on which I can catch this beautiful lady? — Paul G., via e-mail

A: Leeza, 54, recently married her beau of almost three years, Steven Fenton. The former longtime “Entertainment Tonight” host — who hosts the PBS show “My Generation” — will be back on daily TV this fall on the syndicated program, “America Now,” with Bill Rancic. On Sept. 12 she joins the half-hour daily news program, which will deliver short segments of timely information covering lifestyle topics like health, beauty, finance, family and home. Check your local listings as the premiere date gets closer, and check back here in mid-July to read my full interview with the gorgeous newlywed.

Q: I too am a longtime Don Johnson fan and would love to see him on the screen again — any screen. Since his pilot “Mann’s World” wasn’t picked up, do you know if he has anything else in the works? — Whitney A., via e-mail



A: If you haven’t already seen his turn on this past season’s “Eastbound & Down” as Kenny Powers’ father, Eduardo Sanchez, then you first and foremost must watch that. Then head over to Will Ferrell’s comedy website, funnyordie.com, and check out Don’s hilarious short, “Four Loko Vineyards.” Then you’ll need to wait a little while to see him in the thriller, “Vineyard Haven,” which is set for a spring 2012 release, where Don plays an eccentric writing professor who wedges himself between a couple in distress.

Q: I finally saw the Sylvester Stallone shoot-’em-up extravaganza, “The Expendables,” on DVD the other night. The movie was actually a lot of fun, and I was surprised to have enjoyed it so much. I also noticed that the ending left it open for a possible sequel. Could there be plans for one? — Jessica R., Hamilton, Ohio

A: You know it! The movie took in $266 million worldwide, so you can bet Sly and company want to cash in on this particular cash cow. All of the original “good guys” are rumored to be returning for the sequel, which is set for an August 2012 release. There’s no word yet on whether ex-California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger plans to make another cameo (or perhaps a larger role this time?) in the sequel.

READERS: Thanks to all who entered Celebrity Extra’s summer of contests. Congrats to Steven S., Aaron B., Anthony S., Jennifer B. and Tiffany R., who each won an autographed CD of Rachel Fine’s debut CD, “Own Your Own.” Chris C., Frank G., David D., Alicia W., and Rita R. all won a copy of Barton Seaver’s cookbook, “For Cod and Country.” And last but not least, congrats to Kary S., who won the “True Blood” season three DVD set.

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Q and A: Week of June 13

Q: I can’t wait for my favorite show, “Leverage,” to come back for its fourth season. When will that be, and can you give me any scoop about the new season? — Kimberly F., St. Louis

A: “Leverage” will be back Sunday, June 26, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on TNT. Timothy Hutton and crew kick off the new season with a snow-bound adventure. Eric Stoltz guest-stars as the Leverage team must recover lost evidence high up on a mountain. I spoke with Timothy about the new season, and he gave me a sneak peek: “There’s certainly going to be developments with the Nate/Sophie relationship, with them trying to figure out who they are together and what they want with or from each other.”


“The other thing about this season is that the Leverage team is being watched very closely,” he said. “They are being hunted by certain people who would like them to stop doing what they are doing, so they’re a little bit on the run.


“It adds a nice element of danger to season four, where they’re not just independent agents who can move about freely and take down bad guys. They still do that, but they’re doing it at quite big risks, because they know that someone is out to get them.”



Q: Is it true there are plans to remake “Total Recall”? — Jerry W., via e-mail

A: That’s the news spreading around town. Len Wiseman of “Underworld” fame is on board to direct, with Colin Farrell and Kate Beckinsale (who also happens to be Len’s wife and favorite go-to leading lady) set to star. Bill Nighy, Bryan Cranston, Jessica Biehl, Ethan Hawke and John Cho also have signed on for the remake of the 1990 film, which is based on a Philip K. Dick story, “We Can Remember It for You Wholesale.” The tentative release date is Aug. 3, 2012.

Q: I heard that “United States of Tara” had been canceled, and I am worried that the same fate is planned for “Nurse Jackie,” as well as Showtime’s other dark comedies like “Weeds” and “The Big C”! — Dean D., via e-mail

A: Don’t worry, Dean. “Nurse Jackie” will be back on Showtime for a fourth season, most likely in spring 2012. In the meantime, “Weeds” and “The Big C” both make their season premieres on Monday, June 27.

Q: I have seen previews for a new movie called “Meet Monica Velour,” and I couldn’t believe that the main character was the usually glamorous Kim Cattrall! She looked like a completely different person. Why did she decide to take it on? — Trina R., via email

A: I talked with Kim recently and asked her what most appealed to her about the role. Kim said she was attracted to the part of Monica Velour because it was so against-type for her.


“It was an uncompromising, multidimensional role, and not a hooker with a heart of gold, which I was just so sick of,” she said. “Where do these women go when they are done, and they’re not so pretty anymore and not so perky? The same thing happens in Hollywood. It’s just a bigger version, a dramatized version, of what happens to women — not just in show business, but many businesses.


“This woman is in the gutter, and I wanted to get inside of that, because I always play such a strong, powerful woman. What about a woman who doesn’t have any of those choices or any of those opportunities? Where does she go? I’ve never been given a role like that. Until now, I had never fought for a role like that.”

Q: Will “Blue Bloods” on CBS be back for a second season? I really hope so, because it’s one of my favorite shows of the season. — George F., Sacramento

A: The Tom Selleck-starring police drama will be back for a second season on CBS this fall. In fact, you can see the entire CBS line-up, as well as many other networks’ shows, at celebrityextraonline.com. Just click “Fall 2011 Network Line-Ups” for the scoop on the new and renewed shows that will be back this fall.

Q: Is it true that Gwyneth Paltrow is pursuing a music career? — Barbara W., via email

A: Since her roles in “Country Strong” and “Glee,” Gwyneth certainly has been veering in that direction. Her representative told the New York Post, “[Gwyneth] still has not decided if she wants to record an album … [it] is still something she is considering.”

READERS: Congratulations to Virginia C. of Virginia, Cindy E. of Vermont and Peggy C. of Texas, all of whom have won autographed copies of Michelle Young’s books “Dragonstone” and “The Dragon’s Heart.” To learn more about the series and the author, and to read my review of the books, go to here. If you want to purchase the books yourself, go to michelleyoung.org — and check out the Dragonstone jewelry!

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Q and A: Week of April 25

Q: I am going through some serious “True Blood” withdrawal! Can you tell me when the show will return? I know it’s usually over the summer, but I haven’t heard a specific date yet. — Ginger F., via e-mail

A: HBO just announced that season four of the vampire (and fairy and shifter and witch) drama will begin Sunday, June 26. However, if you need your vampire fix before then, Charlaine Harris will release book 11 of the Southern Vampire Mysteries, “Dead Reckoning” — on which the “True Blood” series is based — on May 3. Also, the “True Blood” season three DVD will be released on May 31.


And, since this is the summer of contests, you have a chance to win a copy of the season three “True Blood” DVD set. Write to me at letters@cindyelavsky.com, or at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, and tell me if you are on Team Bill, Team Eric or Team Alcide. I will randomly draw one lucky winner to receive the “True Blood” season three box set. Deadline is May 31.



Q: Do you know if “In Plain Sight” will be returning on USA? We thoroughly enjoy it and hope it’s not canceled. — Pete and Ann, Venice, Fla.

A: The USA network’s drama starring Mary McCormack will return for its fourth season on Sunday, May 1. The show already has been renewed for it’s fifth season, which is scheduled for a 2012 premiere. So, no worries for your favorite show — you’ll have at least 20-something more episodes on the way.

Q: The other day, my mom was watching “My Girl” on DVD and it got me to wondering what Anna Chlumsky, the actress who played Vada, is doing now. She was so good in the movie! — Paula F., Fresno, Calif.


A: Anna’s most recent role is that of Jennifer Mills in the Hallmark Channel original movie “3 Weeks, 3 Kids,” premiering Saturday, May 7. Jennifer is a free spirit who is forced to grow up when her parents hatch a plan for their solo daughter to care for her sister’s rambunctious children. Of taking on this surrogate-mom role, Anna says: “My character has to face her fears of letting the kids down and letting herself down, and in confronting those fears, that’s really where you find your courage.”


Anna, now 30, has guest-starred on “30 Rock” and “Law and Order,” among many other shows. She also just finished shooting “Veep,” a pilot for HBO opposite Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and is in production on the feature film “Sam,” starring opposite Chris Klein.

Q: NCIS is my favorite show. I was told that Mark Harmon is leaving. Is that true? — Linda J., Nokomis, Fla.

A: With record-setting ratings and being picked up for a ninth season, you can bet Mark won’t be leaving “NCIS” anytime soon.

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Q and A: Week of April 18

Q: The other day I stumbled across a show on MTV called “The Hard Times of RJ Berger” — I absolutely loved it! The actress who plays RJ’s mom looks very familiar. Can you tell me about her? — Stan R., Nashville, Tenn.

A: Actress/comedian Beth Littleford portrays Suzanne Berger, RJ’s unconventional (and always entertaining) mom in the MTV scripted comedy — the first-ever sitcom on MTV. You might remember Beth from her four years on Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show.” I chatted with Beth recently (check back later this week for our full interview), and she told me how excited she is about season two.


“This season goes really deep. It continues to push the envelope on a lot of levels, but there is also a lot of really hard, squeezing angst,” she said. “No one is who they appear to be, and life is more complicated. My character continues to be a little bit cartoonish, but then goes deep. You see the love and you see the heartbreak. And because the parents are regular characters this season, I get some juicier story lines.”


You can catch Beth this summer in the Steve Carell comedy “Crazy Stupid Love,” as well as part of the super-mega-all-star cast of “Movie 43.”



Q: I know this is the final season for “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” but can you tell me when her final show will air? — Annie L., via e-mail

A: Oprah’s Harpo Productions, which produces “Oprah,” confirmed that the final original episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” will air May 25. Oprah tweeted last month that she was “hard at work planning the final shows” of TV’s top-rated talk show for more than 20 years. Check your local listings for time and station — I have a feeling the entire month will be packed with stuff you won’t want to miss!

Q: I heard that because of contract negotiations, “Mad Men” won’t be back for a fifth season. Please tell me this isn’t true! — Heather F., via e-mail

A: Don’t fret. The show is getting a late start because of contract-negotiation specifics with “Mad Men” creator Matthew Weiner, but it will return for its fifth season in early 2012.

READERS: It’s time for our third contest! On Tuesday, May 10, the Ovation network is premiering its original series “In Search of Food.” The program spotlights the popularity and resurgence of the “locavore” movement — cooking with locally sourced ingredients — that has invigorated local growers and farms around the country. Barton travels to Minneapolis, New York and San Francisco, where he meets local farmers, chefs and food craftsmen. “In Search of Food” is hosted by acclaimed chef, author and sustainability advocate Barton Seaver. I have five copies of Barton’s “For Cod and Country,” a beautiful hardcover cookbook highlighting cooking with fish. Write to me at letters@cindyelavsky.com or at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, and tell me how far you have gone in search of good food. Deadline is May 31.

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Q and A: Week of April 11

Q: I’ve had a crush on Justin Bruening since he was on “All My Children” in the mid-2000s. What is he up to lately? — Michelle T., via e-mail

A: The former “AMC” and “Knight Rider” star was recently cast in the new “Wonder Woman” reboot, where he’ll serve as a love interest for the superhero herself, played by Adrianne Palicki. Justin, 31, joins one of my crushes, Cary Elwes — who I called dibs on back when he starred as Wesley in “The Princess Bride” — on the new series, which is scheduled to join NBC’s lineup this fall.

Q: I was wondering about actor Jameson Parker, who starred with Gerald McRaney on “Simon and Simon.” What has he been doing lately? I saw a recent picture of him, and he is still blond and gorgeous at 63. — Catherine H., Clinton Township, Mich.



A: Jameson, who played AJ Simon in the hit ’80s series, has been lying pretty low, acting-wise, for a few years. After “Simon and Simon,” Jameson starred in TV movies and guest-starred on many series, including McRaney’s hit sitcom “Major Dad.” He also has written a few books, including an autobiography called “An Accidental Cowboy” and another book titled “To Absent Friends,” which he describes as “a book about dogs we miss.” Back in 1992, Jameson was shot twice during a dispute with his neighbor over dog waste. He was released from the hospital the next day and made a full recovery. The neighbor was charged with attempted murder and sentenced to nine years in prison.

Q: I’ve always liked actress Tea Leoni. Can I see her in anything new soon? – Todd B., via e-mail

A: Tea is joining hubby David Duchovny’s rival network, HBO, for a new comedy called “Spring/Summer.” As I’m sure you know, David stars in the hit Showtime series “Californication,” which recently finished airing its fourth season. But back to Tea … her new show, which is scheduled to begin shooting in June, marks her return to network television. Her most recent TV appearance was as a guest star on David’s show, “The X-Files,” back in 2000.

READERS: Celebrity Extra’s summer of contests continues with your chance to win books: Three sets of “Dragonstone” and its soon-to-be-released sequel, “The Dragon’s Heart,” are up for grabs (Check back later this week for reviews to both books). Written by Michelle Young, these fantasy/historical/romance novels center on the enchanting world of Latharia, where magic rules, dragons fill the skies and everyone has a secret. If you think this kind of book is not your style (as I did before I read them), think again. Three lucky readers have a chance to win an autographed copy of BOTH books. Write to me at letters@cindyelavsky.com, or at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, and tell me why you’d like to be transported the magical world of Latharia this summer. Deadline is May 31.

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Q and A: Week of April 4

Q: I love it that a lot of networks are now airing new programming over the summer. At first it was only the cable networks, but now it seems the basic cable networks are getting in on the act. Can you tell me what to expect from my favorite network of the Big Four (that being NBC)? — Fred F., Lansing, Mich.

A: NBC recently announced it does indeed have new programming planned for the summer. “America’s Got Talent” returns on Tuesday, May 31. Howie Mandel, Sharon Osbourne and Piers Morgan all will be back as judges, with Nick Cannon again hosting. “The Marriage Ref” returns on Sunday, June 26, while “Law and Order: Los Angeles” continues with new episodes on Mondays. Speaking of “Law and Order,” “Criminal Intent” begins its final season May 30. Also, the final season of “Friday Night Lights” continues well into the summer. New shows include a vocal talent show called “The Voice,” the game show “Still Standing” and an adventure-dating series called “Love in the Wild” — all premiere in June.

Q: I really enjoyed Jason Dohring in “Veronica Mars” and “Moonlight.” What is he up to now? — Mary A., in Oklahoma



A: Jason, 29, has been pretty busy since “Moonlight” ended, guest-starring in “Party Down,” “CSI” and “Lie to Me.” He recently completed filming on the movie “Searching for Sonny,” which also stars one of the newest “Charlie’s Angels,” Minka Kelly. The story follows three friends who return home for their high-school reunion and get sucked into a small-town murder mystery.

Q: My wife and I love “Law and Order,” and we were sad when S. Epatha Merkerson left the show last year. We know she had to leave because she had cancer, so we would like to know her condition. — Harry T., Essex Junction, Vt.

A: Don’t fret — S. Epatha does NOT have cancer; her character on the show, Lt. Van Buren, had cancer. S. Epatha has said she had a wonderful 16 years on the show, but it was time for her to move on. She recently wrapped filming on the movie “We the Peeples” with Kerry Washington and Craig Robinson.

READERS: This summer is the summer of contests! First contest: Rachel Fine (pictured, above left) is not only the gorgeous co-host of the weekly comedy news series “The Bonus Show” for Howard (Stern) TV on Demand, but she also is an accomplished singer. She recently released her first CD of original music, all of which she co-wrote with Timothy Schletter, called “Own Your Own” (left) I’ll be giving away five autographed copies of the CD — all you have to do is write to me at letters@cindyelavsky.com or at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, and tell me what you like most about discovering new musical talent. I’ll pick my five favorite entries to win the CDs, and I’ll even print some of the best answers. Deadline is May 15.

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CONTEST: Autographed Mariette Hartley Autobiography

Q: My mother and I are having a disagreement. We both can remember this series of Polaroid commercials from the early 1980s that featured Mariette Hartley and another actor, and they played a cute, bickering husband-and-wife team. My mother insists the actor was Rock Hudson, but I say no. However, I can’t remember who it was. Can you help? — Genie W., via e-mail

A: I can, Genie, I can. But I also see this as a perfect opportunity to have another contest. Readers, here’s your chance to win an AUTOGRAPHED copy of Mariette Hartley’s autobiography, “Breaking the Silence.” Can you tell Genie who that actor was who co-starred with Mariette in those cute ’80s Polaroid commercials? E-mail your answer (with your name and address) to letters(at)cindyelavsky.com Entries must be received (or postmarked) by July 31. Five winners will be chosen and announced in a future column.

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TAYLOR HICKS CONTEST

It’s time for another contest, with five copies of Taylor Hicks' Whomp at the Warfield DVD up for grabs. Just correctly answer this Taylor-related trivia question:

“What songs did Taylor sing in the ‘American Idol’ finale, which ultimately crowned him the winner?”

Send your answer to letters(at)cindyelavsky.com. Please include your full name and mailing address. Entries must be received by April 30. Five winners will be chosen and announced in a future column.

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