Q: I read somewhere that my all-time favorite band, KISS, is back in the studio working on a new album. Is that true? If so, when can we expect some new material from them? — Rodney G., via e-mailA: It’s true: KISS is working on a new studio album. The band began recording in April, and lead singer/songwriter Paul Stanley told me that they expect to release the album in late fall or early 2012, depending on how things go. He said: “So far, it sounds phenomenal. It’ll be worth the wait, I promise.”
In the meantime, Paul also is working with the House Research Institute to help bring awareness to teen hearing loss. Having been born deaf in one ear as well as being a mega rock star, Paul knows all about protecting his hearing, and he wants to help spread the word any way he can. “Hearing loss affects kids, it affects teens, and it affects adults. I tell people, ‘If you won’t listen to somebody in a white coat, maybe you’ll listen to somebody in black leather.’”
For more info on how you can protect your hearing, go to earbud.org, and to learn more about Sound Rules! visit soundrules.org. Go here for my full interview with Paul.
Q: Will “Memphis Beat” and “Rizzoli and Isles” be back on TV? I’m already getting tired of all the summer reality shows! — Glenda F., via e-mail
A: “Memphis” and “Rizzoli” will be back this summer on TNT, starting June 14 and July 11, respectively. In fact, TNT recently announced its all-new summer programming slate, which includes two new series, “Franklin and Bash” with Mark-Paul Gosselaar and Breckin Meyer, and “Falling Skies” with Noah Wylie. Other returning series include “Men of a Certain Age” on June 1, “HawthoRNe” on June 14, “Leverage” on June 26 and “The Closer” on July 11. So get ready for some summertime drama, because TNT is filled to the brim with it!
Q: The Season 1 cliffhanger for Syfy’s “Being Human” had me on the edge of my seat. Please tell me it has been renewed for another season — I can’t wait to see what they come up with next! — Jackie H. in Montana
A: The vampire/werewolf/ghost fantasy-drama has been renewed for a second season by the Syfy network. In fact, the Season 1 finale shattered ratings records for the network. Although no official Season 2 premiere date has been given, I would assume to look for it come January 2012.
Q: I was happy to read in your column that “In Plain Sight” would be back on USA for a fourth and fifth season, but I read that star Mary McCormack is pregnant in real life. How will they handle it on the show? — Colleen V., Las Vegas
A: Mary and hubby Michael Morris are expecting their third child together. Mary told People magazine that her pregnancy will be written into the show, so it will be interesting to see what this means for her character, Mary Shannon.
