Category Archives: Celebrity Happenings

From Jagger to Jay Z: new book gives readers backstage pass to music history

Posted on April 24, 2014 | 4 comments

You don’t have to be a die-hard or wonky music fan to enjoy rock journalist, Lisa Robinson’s new book, There Goes Gravity. If you love music, or ever fantasized about what it would be like backstage, hanging out with your favorite rock star, you’ll live vicariously through Robinson’s 45 years covering rock royalty up close, and often very personal.

there goes gravity cover on carpoolcandy.com

The book is a career memoir– not a personal one– so all the juicy details– from groupies on the road with the Stones to Lady Gaga’s private home life– are about the artists. Robinson started writing in 1969, touring with the Stones and Zeppelin, and has interviewed every big name in the business while writing for several music magazines, the New York Post, and now as the music editor for Vanity Fair.

She was a central figure in the punk rock scene in both New York and London, claiming she got The Clash and Elvis Costello their first record deals after hearing them live.

lisa robinson head shot

The book has only 10 chapters, honing in on only a dozen or so major stars who Robinson thinks have been the most influential. She shares fascinating interviews with artists including Keith Richards, David Bowie, George Harrison, Patti Smith, and Eminem. In many ways, she’s telling the story of American culture through music.

Here’s an excerpt from my review:

Even the most media-wary artists come to trust Robinson because she’s more fan than a critic, able to keep secrets, and industry savvy. One of the few journalists to sit down with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, she offers fascinating quotes, but her rose-colored glasses are off when describing their reclusive, self-centered life in New York.

Robinson has a knack for getting subjects to share revealing personality traits that speak volumes. After interviewing Michael Jackson several times in his rise to stardom, she notices he has two voices: one high and soft for the public, another normal and commanding for his inner circle.

When she asks U2’s Bono how he handles home life after being on tour, he answers candidly. “In a very, very, very deep place I’m secure. And on the surface, secure. But somewhere in there, I need 20,000 screaming people a night to feel normal.” Tracing the evolution of U2, Robinson shows how, despite talent and good intentions, a band can lose its way in the tornado of success. In the group’s ’90s “Popmart” phase, they let celebrity and philanthropy get in the way of the music.

Robinson writes affectionately about most rockers but does get in a few jabs. She describes Lady Gaga as a gifted singer and musician who’s connected to her audience, unlike Madonna, whom Robinson calls driven, humorless and lacking passion.

Ouch!

You can read more of the review here.

Robinson wrote the cover story for last November’s Vanity Fair on the media-wary Jay Z, whom she called “the new Chairman of the Board.”

jay-z-november-2013-cover

In this modern era of publicists and celebrity overexposure, her stories seem even more extraordinary because they came from a simpler time when covering rock was about the music, not the image.

Robinson is a terrific writer whose access and insight make There Goes Gravity a great read. It’s sure to be a staple in many beach bags this summer.

 

 

 

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Posted in Book Reviews, Celebrity Happenings, Music Notes

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Rob Lowe inspires readers to take chances in Love Life

Posted on April 13, 2014 | 3 comments

Skeptics stay with me. I recently reviewed actor Rob Lowe’s new book, Love Life, and guess what? That pretty boy can write.

I chose the book because I’d heard from fellow pop culturites that his first book, an autobiography called Stories I Only Tell My Friends was terrific.

stories i only tell my friends cover on carpoolcandy.com

The critically acclaimed bestseller traced his life from insecure theater nerd living in Ohio to young movie star and 80’s it-boy. He’s candid about his alcohol abuse and the rehab stint in 1990 that changed the course of his life, and led to his continued success in plum TV roles on many hit shows including The West Wing, Californication, and Parks and Recreation. 

I thought it made sense to read both books to compare the second one to the first. I was not disappointed. I’d even read a third!

Lowe is a gifted storyteller who uses humor and self-deprecation to draw readers in, and keeps their attention with fun tales of Hollywood behind-the-scenes.

Love Life is a collection of essays that reveal more about Lowe’s family life and personal philosophy, while still dishing details on show biz. Here’s an excerpt from my review:

Fans who fear he gave up all the good stuff in the first book will be pleasantly surprised.

“Love Life” is catnip for pop culture addicts. Lowe names some names (his torturous kissing scene with singer Jewel, and actor Tom Sizemore’s personal meltdown are two examples) but is coy about other famous “friends” — tantalizing readers with only hints of the players in some juicy stories.

Lowe talks about the craft of acting, offering tips on how to eat, use props, and ad lib on camera. He often reminds readers entertainment is a business, and success is fleeting. That’s driven home in the failure of two shows he produced and starred in, even turning down the part Patrick Dempsey made into McDreamy in “Grey’s Anatomy,” for a series that never got past a few episodes. But every experience helps him grow. “The only time you flop is when you don’t learn something,” Lowe writes.

A contender in movies, TV, and politics, Lowe meets Prince William and Kate, exchanges notes with Bill Clinton, and pals around with scores of A-list celebrities. But instead of just name-dropping, he has a way of making the reader feel like he snuck us in his shirt pocket and took us along for the ride.

As he stares at Warren Beatty’s Oscar at the legend’s home; or turns down Madonna for a dance at the Palladium; or is in the room with Arnold Schwarzenegger as he won the California gubernatorial election, he’s looking over at us whispering, “Can you believe this?!”  

 He manages to make being Rob Lowe somehow seem normal.

To read the rest of the review click here.

Love Life cover on carpoolcandy.com

If you grew up in the 80’s, if you like insider stories about how Hollywood works, if you enjoy smart, funny yarns, you’ll enjoy Love Life.

Both books have several pages of photos of Lowe through the years with his family and notable celebs. That bastard has barely aged a bit.

But don’t hold that handsome face against him.

Would you read the book? Tell me why/why not in the comments.

 

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Records broken, pizza ordered at 2014 Oscars

Posted on March 3, 2014 | 10 comments

Oh Oscar. How I love thou.

If you’re looking for whining about how long the show drags on or the silly amount of attention paid to celebrities and fashion, read some Hollywood hater blog. Here at Carpool Candy we celebrate the Academy Awards!

oscar statues

This year’s Oscar fashions had very little drama. The theme seemed to be neutral-toned sheath dresses with subtle beading.  Here are the highlights…. 

Who stood out from the crowd:

Kate Hudson had my favorite look of the night.  First off, her body is to die for and never looked better than in that sleek, white, fitted satiny dress with a sexy low-cut neckline, caped shoulders and long train. Sun-kissed and glam….like a classic Hollywood starlet. Perfection.

Angelina Jolie— It’s so boring to put her on a best dressed list but she really earned it. Her sophisticated sexy, Elie Saab metallic dress with illusion windows hung on her beautifully.

Cate Blanchett— Not sure if I loved the Armani dress or hated it. From far away it looked like a holiday art project my 1st grader might bring home, but on stage it hugged her in all the right places and the details of the beading against the illusion nude shape worked on her. Her dangling earrings were fabulous.

Jessica Biel–  Her Chanel strapless sheath dress with silver beading and long, flawy tresses showed off her gorgeous body and hair. Her stylist gets an A+.

Sandra Bullock looked very regal in a navy strapless McQueen dress with gorgeous curled Rita Hayworth hair. Classy.

Kerry Washington and Olivia Wilde-– These two pregnant gals are in my top 3 fashion winners. Loved Washington’s flowy purple satin Grecian goddess number with dark lipstick and long loose hair. Wilde barely showed her baby bump in a long, flattering black dress, a messy up-do and funky earrings. Oscar brought out their glow.

Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP/Jason Merritt/Getty Images

Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP/Jason Merritt/Getty Images

It was the night of white tuxes for the men. Ryan Seacrest, Jared Leto, and Matthew McConaughey were among those going with a classic white jacket and dark tie. Very original Brat Pack, very debonair. I also liked Will Smith’s twist on black tie with an open shirt and grey scarf thingy that looked cool, sexy and modern.

Who could have tried harder: 

No one embarrassed themselves and no stylists will be looking for a job tomorrow. but there were a few duds.  I expected more from….

Lupita Nyoong’o-– I’ll probably be the only one to say this but fashion darling Nyoong’ has wowed on every red carpet this year. It was a pretty dress–I loved the baby blue color and the diamond headband in her hair, but the low cut halter didn’t flatter her. It accentuated her chest and arms, looking severe and masculine.

Lady Gaga- MEH. She got the memo on neutral frocks and paired the ho-hum dress with dowdy up-do and pasty makeup.  I appreciate her reverence for the Oscars but where was the wow?

Ellen DeGeneres— Her black tux jackets were shiny and sparkly in a Vegas kind of way that didn’t suit her (see what I did there?) and the long tied bow blouse channeled a pilgrim. She made up for it when she changed mid-show into a white tuxedo suit with sparkly sneakers that made her steel blue eyes pop and seemed more her speed.

For more on fashion click here.

The show: 

Wilson and I LOL-ed several times at Ellen’s monologue. Her easy confidence and command of the room set the prefect tone for the night. Her bits between awards were clever and funny, offering consolation prizes to losers (Bradley Cooper got lotto tickets) and ordering pizza for hungry stars (Jared Leto and Harrison Ford ate a slice.) Her humor is original, positive and quirky. I loved it and so did the sometimes hard-to-win over audience.

86th_Academy_Awards_poster

Her finest moment was probably getting a bunch of A-list stars together for a giant selfie on live TV.  She said she was looking to break a record for most retweeted photo but she was also commenting on our present self-obsessed and social-media-dependent culture. The huge worldwide response briefly stalled Twitter.

oscars selfie

According to Time magazine, the post broke the retweet record surpassing a million retweets in less than an hour. (Previously, Barack Obama’s election night photo of him hugging Michelle got retweeted more than 778,000 times.) At last count, the tweet was reposted over 2,280,450 times. 

It’s always great when something unexpected happens. Like when the long-time singer Darlene Love broke into soulful song when accepting the award for the feature documentary “20 Feet from Stardom” and received a standing ovation. She took her moment and ran with it.

Bill Murray sneaking in a plug for old pal Harold Ramis while giving the best cinematography award was a sweet and goofy moment.

Most of the acting awards were expected but best speeches go to Jared Leto for best supporting actor in “Dallas Buyers Club,”  Cate Blanchett for best actress in “Blue Jasmine,” and Lupita Nyoong’o for “12 Years a Slave.”  

Leto spoke eloquently and lovingly about his mother, and also spoke to those fighting for freedom in Ukraine and Venezuela, and paid tribute to AIDS victims, and the gay community.

Blanchett was gracious in her thank yous but made sure to point out that movies with women as lead characters are not only important and liked by audiences, they also make money. You go sister.

Nyoong’o closed her thoughtful, touching speech by saying when she looked down at the golden man, she saw proof that no matter where you’re from (she’s from Kenya,) “your dreams are valid.” Am I the only sap who cried?

Musical highlights:  Bono led U2 in a powerful acoustic performance of “Ordinary Love” from the movie “Mandela “that had the crowd on its feet by the end.  Let the iTunes downloads commence!

Pharrell singing his hit “Happy” from “Dispicable Me 2″ was fun. I’m not sure how he does it, but he makes an Adidas sweat jacket, red metallic high tops and his trademark mounty hat look cool. And he got Meryl Streep and Lupita Nyoong’o boogying in the aisles.

The most awkward moments included painfully hair-plugged John Travolta butchered actress/singer Idina Menzel’s name before she sang the nominated song from “Frozen.” ….and when actress Kim Novak (from Hitchcock’s “Vertigo“)– once a Hollywood ingenue–  got a lot of bad attention for her pulled face. Poor old gal looked like Jack Nicholson as the Joker. (Best comment I saw on Twitter : “Frozen wins. The movie, not Kim Novak’s face.)

I did some due diligence before the show and it was tough to predict who would win best picture because there were so many nominated movies (9) and the race was tight.

oscar movies 2014

But the glitterati consensus forecasted a race between Alfonso Cuaron’s 3-D spectacle “Gravity,” Steve McQueen’s historical odyssey “12 Years a Slave” and David O. Russell’s corruption comedy “American Hustle.”

Mexican filmmaker Cuaron won for best director, and became the first Latino winner in the category. When “12 Years a Slave” won best picture, it was the first time a film directed by a black filmmaker (Brit Steve McQueen) took the academy’s top honor.

One fact I found noteworthy was the lack of diversity among Academy members. Most of the group’s 6,000 members are older white men, according to an AP report. A 2012 study by The LA Times found that Oscar voters are almost 94 percent white and 77 percent male. African Americans, the Times found, make up about 2 percent of the academy, and Latinos are less than 2 percent.

The median age of Oscar voters is 62! That’s a lot of white geezers deciding which Hollywood careers will be made and broken.  We need more women and minorities in the Hollywood elite to make more movies we want to see. 

What were your favorite Oscar moments? Tell me in the comments.

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Posted in Celebrity Happenings, Fallen celebs, Movie reviews/news

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I got my sexy on at the Justin Timberlake concert

Posted on February 23, 2014 | 3 comments
Justin Timberlake concert tshirts on carpoolcandy.com

We did not shell out $45 for a t-shirt.

My friend, Alicia, and I had tickets to see JT last Wednesday at MSG in New York. I’d never seen him perform in person and was probably more excited than I should have been for a 40-something mom of three.

I actually stressed about what to wear. I too carefully chose black jeans, a new shirt, boots, and lots of jewelry. I’m not sure who I was trying to impress. Ok, it was Justin. I actually caught myself thinking about what I would want to be wearing if I was hanging out with the pop star, instead of standing very, very far away from him in a dark stadium with 20,000 other screaming girls.

As soon as I got to Manhattan, Alicia emailed me to say that Justin was sick and had postponed the concert until Friday night.

When I got back to Penn at around 8pm Wednesday night to go home, there were dozens of girls standing around MSG in various states of shock and grief. Some were spewing obscenity-laced rants, others were crying. I somehow was able to hold myself together in the face of tragedy.

Friday night we geared up again for the show. Tickets say it starts at 8pm but he didn’t go on until 9pm. Our seats were ok, not great. We were up in the nosebleeds but close to the stage on his right side. We paid $166 each to see him this close.

Justin Timberlake concert MSG NYC on carpoolcandy.com

But the way the show is designed, every section of the venue gets a little piece of Justin at some point. The stage is simple– no crazy sets or props– with split levels for him, his dancers, and his band, the Tennessee Kids. The backdrop is a giant video screen playing mostly black and white photos.

JT came out in a debonair white jacket tux, cut perfectly to his frame. He sang most of his hits — old and new– and glided along the stage looking as cool and classic as Clooney, moving as smoothly and skillfully as Michael.

After apologizing for missing Wednesday’s cancellation, he told the audience, “I love you New York. I can’t give you some half-ass shit tonight!”

He didn’t.

Justin’s one of the most compelling performers I’ve ever seen. He’s insanely talented, and seems authentic in everything he does. He’s working it, but he’s laughing and having fun. He moves with such ease, you can’t take your eyes off him. The numbers didn’t seem choreographed down to the minute. He jumped in and out of moves with his dancers, and they all seemed to riff singing and dancing throughout the show.

He played for over an hour before taking a 10 minute intermission. When he returned after the break, he was singing on one of the levels of the stage– a long bridge-like platform– when it began to rise high above the audience, and proceeded to slowly travel over the crowd from the stage up front to the back of the stadium.

Justin Timberlake MSG concert NYC on carpoolcandy.com

As it moved, Justin danced and strolled from one side to the other so he could wave and shake hands with fans all along the way.

Justin Timberlake MSG concert NYC on carpoolcandy.com

There were no bars on this platform so one false move and he could have been a Timberlake pancake.

Justin Timberlake MSG concert NYC on carpoolcandy.com

There were many highlights. He wooed us with New York, New York with extra swagger. The energy in the stadium was electric during Sexy back and Mirrors, but I also loved his acoustic, slowed-down version of What Goes Around Comes Around, and the fun cover of Elvis’ Heartbreak Hotel.  

Justin Timberlake MSG concert NYC on carpoolcandy.com

He strummed a guitar and tickled the ivories with equal flair, and made me hear pop radio songs with new ears by giving them texture.  I can’t tell you how many times listening to the sultry lyrics of Future Sex Love Sounds blaring in my iPod has gotten me through a long run.

I’m not gonna lie, hearing it live made me tingly.

I guess I’m gushing but I can’t help it. JT puts on a great show and we were all a little lovestoned. (Click here for crappy quality video of TKO taken on my iPhone!)

Alicia and I were completely amused by the 20-somethings smoking pot and pounding beers around us. One hilarious guy clearly came with his girlfriend and started out skeptical. But after just a few songs we heard him say to his male buddy, “I’m as straight as an arrow, but he’s pushing me into the gay center!!”

Amen, brother.

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My moment of Zen at the Daily Show

Posted on January 30, 2014 | 2 comments

I crossed off another item on my pop culture bucket list when Wilson’s brother recently hooked us up with tickets to The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Whether you watch it religiously like I do, or have caught it only once or twice, you know that Stewart and his writers are brilliant, searing, and very, very funny.

I DVR the show every night and refuse to delete an episode until I’ve watched it.  Even months later (Wilson complains because I’m still hoarding shows from last April,)  the sketches are so clever and smart, I’m entertained and enlightened.

When we arrived at the studio on the west side of Manhattan there was a long line of people waiting outside in the cold. A sign over the entrance says in Old English type, “Abandon News, All Ye Who Enter Here.”

daily show jon stewart ticket on carpoolcandy.com

Check out this very high-tech ticket system.

Our VIP tickets got us inside right away but we had to stand and wait for another 30 minutes before going into the taping. Nothing says VIP more than a 23-year-old PA with a headset and an inflated sense of power telling you where to stand.

I was surprised at the large size of the studio. When watching at home, it feels like an intimate set. I pictured a small audience, sitting very close to Jon. It’s at least 200 people and the audience is more than 25 feet away from his desk.

The production staff hands out tickets in numbered order so the earlier you arrive, the better your seats, but it’s also a random process and sometimes you have to get lucky.  Wilson and I went with another couple and I realized too late that we probably could have sat in the center section if we had said we were a party of 2 instead of 4. (Note to self for next time.)

Instead we were led to the absolute last 4 seats of the center section all the way to the left of the stage, right behind a giant crane maneuvering a robotic camera. (Sigh.) In the end, our view was somewhat blocked but it was totally fine and we could see everything if we cocked our heads at just the right angle.

daily show jon stewart studio on carpoolcandy.com

I’ve worked in production for years so seeing the set, lights, and cameras is no longer a thrill, but TDS— more than other live TV shows I’ve seen– felt like a cross between theater and a comedy club. There was a hilarious warm up guy who ran around the studio with a microphone doing jokes and interviewing audience members for about 15 minutes. He chose a few poor souls in the crowd to pick on and got everyone rolling as he turned them into blithering, giggling targets.

He also gave us direction on when and how loud to clap and cheer once the show began. The energy in the room was electric as Jon came out a few minutes later.  He also had a mike and thanked everyone for coming before taking questions from the audience. Answering every question with a delicate balance of confidence and self-deprecation, he was exactly as I imagined in person: short (in stature,) quick (in humor,) gracious, and slightly removed.

When the show started, there were no surprises to seeing it live, except how close the correspondents are when they do their schtick. There’s a green screen just a few feet away from Jon’s desk where Jason Jones did a hysterical bit about gay marriage with a giant grapefruit protruding from his tighty-whiteys.

When each performer finished and the show took a commercial break, Jon shouted out his/her name so the audience could applaud, which felt very showbiz.  I forget that these guys are basically putting on an original mini-comedic play 4 nights a week. It’s impressive, and must be exhausting.

The guest was kinda lame. Sorry Steven Brill, but you’re no celebrity. A lawyer, author, and journalist, Brill’s recent book, “Bitter Pill” is about the problems with America’s health care system. No Will Ferrell stealing loot from the green room, or Jon swooning over Jennifer Lawrence.  Ah well.

The moment of Zen was a tribute to the show’s head writer, Tim Carvell who’s going to work on John Oliver’s new HBO show. After the video played out, a nerdy looking guy who’s probably a comedic genius came out for applause and the entire crew stood up, clapped, and cheered. Seems like a tight-knit group.

It was over all too soon.

Daily Show with Jon stewart graphic on carpoolcandy.com

I would argue that Jon Stewart is the Johnny Carson of our time.  Even if you don’t agree with his politics, you can’t deny his intelligence and deep understanding of issues. Most of my contemporaries watch him much more than Fallon or Kimmel (does anyone watch Leno anymore? Good riddance!)

His show is clever and quotable. But he’s also expressing ideas and– between the fart and sex jokes–  making his audience question our political system and examine social issues. He’s set a new standard for late night TV: now we can laugh and think at the same time.

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Favorite moments of 2014 Grammys

Posted on January 27, 2014 | 1 comment

I don’t usually blog about music awards shows because I don’t know enough to opine on winners and losers. But the Grammys have become a pop culture must-see event, more for the performances than the mini gramophones handed out.

Grammy graphic

The Grammys were presented live from the Staples Center in LA, with L.L. Cool J as host. Let’s start with the red carpet…..

While at the Oscars or Globes we look for elegant couture, the Grammys is the place to take risks. J.Lo’s famous green cut-to-the-navel Versace dress and Lady Gaga’s Saturn-inspired space get-up were previous favorites. But with neither diva there, there was little to turn heads.

OFF THE CHARTS:

—Taylor Swift won best dressed with a stunning Gucci metallic short-sleeved sheath with metal detail that was edgy and sophisticated.

–A svelt Miranda Lambert looked amazing in a sexy, black dress and long blond tresses.

—Katy Perry won most whimsical in a Valentino dress literally inspired by music.

Jason Merritt/Getty

Jason Merritt/Getty

SOUR NOTES:

—Daft Punk guys were wearing face-covering Darth Vader-ish helmets with tuxedos that I’m too square to understand. (More on them later.)

—Cyndi Lauper had on a black and gold get-up with a cape, and bright red hair piled atop her head…which prompted my 8 year-old son to ask if she was in Shrek.

–I love Gloria Estefan but her red lace dress made her look like a blood-splattered shooting victim. Maybe the rhythm finally got her?

—Kacey Musgrave won for best country music album and sang a cute song, but her bejeweled mini-dress made her look like a Neiman Marcus Christmas ornament.

For more Grammy fashion click here. 

Onto the show…..

—Bey and Jay started it off with a sexy duet of “Drunk in Love.” All eyes were on the king and queen of the music prom. Sasha looked fierce with wet hair in a black sheer bodysuit and fishnets in a Flashdance-inspired chair dance.  Jay Z came out in a tuxedo and rapped around her. No sets, no dancers, watching just the two of them singing and dancing felt very intimate.

–Katy Perry never disappoints.  Singing “Dark Horse,” she appeared onstage dressed as a witch inside a crystal ball. Her number had crazy lights, acrobats, pole dancers, a life-size Trojan horse that broke apart to reveal rapper Juicy J, and pyrotechnics burning up the stage. Oh and Perry singing. Over the top? Sure, but I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen.

–Julia Roberts introduced Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr who played together in a rare duet. Not sure why she was there but she made up for her dowdy Globes dress with a hot, black, sparkly mini dress and long bed-head locks.

—Robin Thicke teamed with Chicago for a medley that included “Blurred Lines.” Thicke minus twerking Miley and gangster suit = fun to watch.

–One of the coolest moments of the night was when Pharrell, Daft Punk, and Stevie Wonder had the whole crowd on their feet boogying to  “Get Lucky,” I loved seeing Yoko Ono, Beyonce and JayZ, Katy Perry, and Bruno Mars getting jiggy in the aisles.

daft punk grammys

Jason Merritt/Getty

–Jay Z, was the night’s front-runner with nine nominations, including best rap album, rap song and rap performance. When winning for best rap song/collaboration for “Holy Grail,” Jay called Beyonce his “light” and holding up the Grammy, had a message for daughter Blue: “Daddy got a gold sippy cup for you!”

—Macklemore and Ryan Lewis won best new artist and pointed out that they made their album without a record label and went on to win a Grammy, giving hope to struggling artists everywhere.

–I had two favorite moments. The first was the amazing Pink. She puts everything into what she does. She sang ” Try” while flipping and doing the splits, dangling from scarves high above the audience. Next she belted “Just Give Me a Reason,” with fun’s Nate Ruess with such passion I wanted to cry.

–The other was the duet with Carole King and Sara Bareilles singing a mashup of “Beautiful” and “Brave,” while playing dueling pianos. King sounds as good as she did in 1985 when I’d listen to “Tapestry” over and over in my friend Debby’s basement. You could tell Bareilles was having a pinch-me moment.

–Taylor Swift got a well-deserved standing O after performing an emotional version of “All Too Well,” from her Red album.  Looking grown up and poised in a dramatic dress and Farrah Fawcett hair with just a piano and a spotlight, she sang better than I’ve ever heard her.

–One of the most talked about moments will certainly be when Macklemore and Ryan Lewis sang their hit about tolerance, “Same Love.” Mid-song Queen Latifah came onstage to officiate the marriages of 34 couples in the audience. As the group of gay and straight couples of different ages and races exchanged rings, Madonna appeared.  Channelling the Lone Ranger in a white suit and 10 gallon hat, Madge sang “Open Your Heart” intertwined with “Same Love.” She looked creepy. She’s had too much work done and although her ridiculous outfit proved she can wear anything and still look good, it seems like a wasted opportunity. Don’t get me wrong. I will always love Madonna. But I wish she were aging more gracefully instead of fighting it with everything’s she’s got.

—Trending on Twitter:  Pharrell Williams’ giant mountie-inspired hat got its own Twitter feed…. Keith Urban was bashed for his new short haircut and accused of stealing Jennifer Lawrence’s do….and everyone loved Pink. 

The biggest winners of the night were Daft Punk, the French robots who won five awards, but never said a word when accepting because those darn helmets got in the way.

For a complete list of winners click here.

No matter what your musical taste, a night at the Grammys is the coolest concert around. Share your highlights in the comments.

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Posted in Celebrity Happenings, In the News, Music Notes, Pop Culture Trends

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Golden Globes 2014 post game wrap

Posted on January 13, 2014 | 6 comments

Golden Globes 2013 highlights

I love the smell of hairspray in the morning.

Stars of TV and film were up spinning, down-dogging, running, plucking, waxing, botoxing, self-tanning, eyelash-donning, hair-straightening, and starving since the crack of dawn so they could look effortlessly beautiful for us!

It’s awards season kids, and I couldn’t be happier. Tonight I hunkered down with my electronic gadgets and some snacks to watch the Golden Globes.

The overall theme of the night was : “I don’t have anything prepared. This was totally unexpected!”

Let’s get to the deets…..

THE RED CARPET: 

Who shined:  

—The always elegant Naomi Watts looked amazing in Tom Ford: sleek ,modern, fit like a glove with subtle details. One of my favs.

Jason Merritt/Getty

Jason Merritt/Getty

–Olivia Wilde was radiant in an sparkly emerald-green sheath that showed off her baby bump. Loved the rich color and sophisticated style.

–I often fantasize about being besties with Leslie Mann and Judd Apatow and her fashion sense is only one reason. Loved her gorgeous, long, straight hair, and her black lace strapless dress was glam but not over the top.

— I’m a huge fan of Modern Family’s Sarah Hyland and thought her pretty pink sheath was age appropriate and refined. I wasn’t sure about the braided crown hair but she pulled it off.

—Girls creator Lena Dunham redeemed some previous fashion don’ts with a bright canary yellow dress that had a flattering strapless bodice and fit her well.

—Amy Adams looked sexy in a red and maroon color block Valentino halter dress, she said  was influenced by her American Hustle character. She was one of many with her hair in a bun.

—Wolf of Wall Street breakout star Margot Robbie channeled Grace Kelly in a cream low-cut Gucci sheath with jewel details and a tight low bun.

—Sofia Vergara has cornered the market on voluptuous, and while her strapless ball gown hugged in all the right places, the basic black color was a bit dull for the fiery actress.

— The beautiful Luoita Nyong’o from 12 Years a Slave was a standout in a bright red strapless gown and cape by Ralph Lauren.

-Robin Wright is owning 47. She looks gooood. Her sleek, sexy, low-back sparkly dress was elegant and age appropriate and showed some side boob!

–Her alabaster skin and shiny black hair complimented Julianna Margulies’  gorgeous low-cut black Andrew Gn gown. The gold details gave her a regal, commanding look.

–Not every man can carry a tux but these guys know how to make it look good:  Bradley Cooper, Matt Lauer, Andy Samberg, Seth Meyers, and Chris Pine. 

—Taylor Swift looked pretty in a dramatic Carolina Herrera red and black ball gown, but she looks too skinny. Should I be worried?

Who should fire their stylist: 

–The Bjork scary dress award went to actress Paula Patton, who looked like a giant marshmallow in a skin-tight white lycra sheath with some crazy angel wing accessory attached on one side. Yikes!

–I love Drew Barrymore, I do. So I’m not going to pick on her when she’s pregnant. I’m not going to say she made a poor choice of moo-moo sprinkled with pink and red flowers. I’m just going to wish her well.

—Julia Roberts was a huge disappointment. Her Dolce and Gabbana black and white Oxford shirtdress and poofy, matronly up-do did not work for me.

—Hayden Panettiere is such a pretty girl but her slicked back severe hair and unflattering halter dress did not do her any favors.

–Zoe Saldana’s dress seemed to be suffering from multiple personality disorder. Weird length, several patterns, attachments, and details that didn’t work together. Beautiful face, terrible dress.

—Zooey Deschannel— has had too many misses on the carpet to let this one pass. Hair and dress were dowdy and unflattering.

For more on fashion click here.

NBC

NBC

THE SHOW:   Tina Fey and Amy Poehler were able hosts, but not as clever and refreshing as last year.  I love their chemistry and fearlessness in that tough room. They manage just the right balance of teasing the Hollywood elite without being mean or dirty. I giggled several times in the opening monologue.

WHO NAILED IT: 

Jennifer Lawrence’s reign as Hollywood darling is intact after she won best supporting actress for “American Hustle,” and seemed genuinely surprised to win again. Her speech was earnest and full of gratitude.

After 5 nominations, Bryan Cranston got a roar from the crown when he finally won for “Breaking Bad.” Well deserved! The show also won for best drama series. Meth-heads everywhere rejoice!

Cate Blanchett won for her excellent performance in Blue Jasmine and was one of the few who didn’t talk about how surprised she was to win, but spoke graciously like an old Hollywood legend.

Leonardo DiCaprio won for Wolf of Wall Street. Wilson and I saw it this weekend and despite it’s 3-hour running time, I highly recommend it. Although he seems like a huge ego-maniac with a model obsession, I can’t help but love Leo for his talent. He deserved to win.

WHO GOT ROBBED: 

Jon Voight won for best supporting actor in a TV series. I’ve seen Showtime’s Ray Donovan and Voight is a great actor, but I’m sorry Aaron Paul’s work on Breaking Bad should have been recognized. Not ok.

SURPRISE WINNERS:

Amy Adams beating Meryl Streep for best actress was a shock but I haven’t seen American Hustle yet. Adams is super talented and her speech was genuine, smart and poised.

Brooklyn 99 best new comedy on carpoolcandy.com

I may have squealed in delight when my boy Andy Samberg won for my new favorite show Fox’s Brooklyn Nine-Nine. It’s only been on a few months, but as I’ve said in more than one post, it’s really funny!

In the tough best comedy category the nominees included Parks and Recreation, Modern Family, Girls, and Big Bang Theory. But the winner?  Brooklyn Nine-Nine baby! The Hollywood Foreign Press and I agree it’s must-see TV.

CRINGEWORTHY BITS: 

No one seemed more surprised than Jacqueline Bisset herself when she won for best supporting TV actress . She got to the stage slowly, and was stunned, speechless and then got bleeped for cursing, before blathering on for too many long, excruciating minutes, despite the playoff music. Wacky.

Fans of 80-‘s drama My So Called Life will be happy to hear that Jordan Catalano, I mean  Jared Leto won for best supporting actor for “Dallas Buyers Club. ” His tremendous performance as a cross-dressing AIDS patient blew me away. His acceptance speech, however, not so much.

FAVORITE MOMENTS:

When Amy Poehler’s name was announced for best comedy actress in Parks and Recreation, Bono was giving her a backrub for support, and when she won she grabbed his face and started making out with him! Why not?!

Woody Allen received the Cecil B. DeMille award for excellence but– despite many nominations– he’s never attended a Globes show so longtime pal Diane Keaton accepted on his behalf. Rocking a tuxedo as well as Clooney, Keaton gave an interesting speech, noting Allen has written and directed 74 movies in 48 years. He’s worked with every major actress in Hollywood (179 in total) because his female characters are real, complicated and can’t be compartmentalized.  The montage made me want to see many of them again. Blue Jasmine is still playing and well worth your time.

I would have liked a few more Fey and Poehler bits throughout the show but it did end on time. If only there was a live broadcast of all the after-parties. I’d be up all night.

What were your favorite moments of the show? Tell me in the comments.

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Emmys Review 2013: Year of the upsets

Posted on September 23, 2013 | Comments Off on Emmys Review 2013: Year of the upsets

If you know me at all, you know Emmy night makes me happy. I was excited all day, reading Twitter posts from the stars on how they get ready for TV’s big show.

Neil Patrick Harris hosting assured it would be fun to watch, no matter who went home clutching a statue. Wilson and I are huge “How I Met Your Mother” fans, and beyond his TV comedy chops, that guy can sing and dance and generally own a room.

emmys review on carpoolcandy.com

NPH didn’t disappoint. The opening was a very funny bit where all the previous hosts–including Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Jane Lynch and Conan O’Brien– offered advice and tried to pretend they weren’t crushed to be snubbed this year.

Half-way through the show Harris starred in an old school 70’s variety show song and dance number he appropriately called “the number in the middle of the show,” complete with bright lights, cheesy disco music and “Solid Gold” dancers.  Sounds awful, but somehow I couldn’t turn away! Later on, there was an amazing number created by the nominated choreographers from all the dance shows, doing interpretive dances for each nominated comedy and drama series.  It was quite a spectacle but I liked it.

The theme of the show was unexpected wins.

–Jeff Daniels of “The Newsroom” beat out “Mad Men’s” Jon Hamm and “Breaking Bad’s” Bryan Cranston for lead actor in a drama series.

–Many will say Kerry Washington was robbed when Claire Danes won for best actress in a drama., but no one does plays crazy like Danes in “Homeland. ”

–“The Colbert Report” finally beat out Jon Stewart for comedy writing and best variety series, but was classy enough to thank Stewart in both speeches.

–Virtual unknown Merritt Wever shocked everyone– especially herself– winning best supporting actress in a comedy for Showtime’s “Nurse Jackie,” and beating the likes of Sofia Vergara, Julie Bowen, and Jane Lynch.

There were several tributes to TV greats who died this year but it was Edie Falco’s speech about James Gandolfini that moved me most.  Here are some other highlights:

Memorable for all the wrong reasons: 

–Still not sure why Elton John sang a song written for Liberace or why Carrie Underwood sang “Yesterday” in a tribute bit to the 6o’s. Random, odd, and wasted precious time. Hey Emmy producers: people would rather hear more acceptance speeches than misplaced songs.

What got me grinning:  

—Merritt Wever’s speech.  I’ve been pulling for her since the pilot. She is über talented but apparently so shy she couldn’t even speak, merely saying thank you and ” I gotta go.”  That humble awkwardness makes me love her even more.

—Sarah Silverman pulled a Sharon Stone, telling Ryan Seacrest her tight black dress was ordered on-line for $60. I don’t know if it’s true, but she looked good!

–There was a lot of bawdy banter on the show that kept the audience on its toes and made me giggle several times.

–Will Ferrell was hilarious announcing the best comedy and drama categories. He claimed he was asked to present 30 minutes before showtime so showed up dressed in shorts and a t-shirt with 3 kids that may have been his own.

What had Twitter buzzing:

–Michael Douglas won for best actor for playing Liberace and got the web chatting by thanking estranged wife Catherine Zeta-Jones.

–Many wondering how long it will take for Jon Hamm’s bear-like beard to have its own Twitter feed.

Click here for photos but my red carpet standouts were:

—Julia Louis-Dreyfus gets my best dressed award for her beaded metallic strapless Monique Lhuillier gown which fit her like a glove, with the perfect balance of sparkle and class… and modern, easy hair.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus Emmys 2013

—No surprise that Sofia Vergara was my runner up in a tight red Vera Wang mermaid dress, and flowing blond locks. The dress was tailored but rough in a stunning shape and color, with just the right amount of detail and texture. Me gusta.

—Heidi Klum dazzled in a maroon beaded gown with a super modern neckline and high ponytail. Sleek, sexy, edgy. I likey.

–There’s no question the loveliest locks go to Connie Britton. Her strapless green velvet sheath with gold stitching might have been teetering on Scarlet O’Hara curtain territory, but it was overshadowed by that long, thick, cascading mane.

–I coveted Allison Williams’  gorgeous flowing hair but she looked a bit too skinny in glamorous peacock-blue Ralph Lauren dress. Don’t go too Hollywood Allison!

—Cobie Smulders looked particularly beautiful with simple yet elegant make up and hair, and a classy pink sheath dress.

—Julie Bowen often makes good choices and I think she pulled off her pretty Zac Posen pink dress.  Its cap sleeves, gathered fabric, and a flowy bottom had a unique shape.

–I loved Juliana Margulies’ white sheath with black embroidered flowers. It was simple, yet dramatic and went well with her seemingly flawless alabaster skin and shiny black hair.

–My high school crush, Michael J Fox, still looks like a teenager– how is that possible? The new star of his own comedy this fall looked handsome and stylish in a straight tie tux.

Who may want to fire their stylist (or get one): 

–I adore the brilliant Lena Dunham but her green dress with red flowers was an unflattering shape, and almost purposefully not pretty. Her severe haircut didn’t help.. but on the bright side her eye makeup was cool.

—Zosia Mamet was another girl from “Girls” who missed the mark in a watercolor-inspired dress with a black leather pattern in the bra area.

—Julianne Hough wore a sea-foam green dress that was twisted on top and sheer on bottom and all wrong. Bad color, shape and details. But pretty hair!

–Note to Claire Danes: good for you for not caving to Hollywood and getting a boob job, but no need to flaunt it in a dress that just hangs there. You always have great taste but this was not your best moment. But tip your hair stylist as your Princess Grace-do was working.

—Kate Mara wore a white patterned dress with too much going on– sheer patterned panels,  severe slit cut, mock turtleneck and sleeves. It did not work for me.

—Will Arnett looked like a 50’s band leader in a super tight grey tux with black stripe.  I think it was the same as Ryan Seacrest’s but Ryan wins that “who wore it best” contest. 

Did you watch? Agree or think I’m as crazy as Walter White? Hit me with your thoughts in the comments!

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Everything you need to know to be a Skinnygirl

Posted on August 15, 2013 | 3 comments

It’s been a busy week! I reviewed another new book:  Bethenny Frankel’s “Skinnygirl Solutions: Your Straight-Up Guide to Home, Health, Family, Career, Style, and Sex,” which is a fun and easy read.

If you’re a fan of the reality TV star turned wildly successful entrepreneur, you’ll appreciate much of the advice in the book, as it’s dished out with Frankel’s signature candor, spunk and self-deprecating humor.

If you’re not a fan, well you’ll probably skip it.

Skinnygirl Solutions cover on carpoolcandy.com

But I find that most people judge stars like Frankel based on the way they look and how they became famous and not what they’ve achieved. Sure, she threw herself in front of a camera for several years to get famous, but she really became rich when her fame allowed her to implement ideas she’d been brewing for years. Ideas that have tapped into a market for women’s products and changed the way people do business.

Frankel sold her Skinnygirl cocktail business for an undisclosed (but widely believed to be more than $100 million) sum a few years ago but was savvy enough to retain the brand and now has branched into shapewear and workout equipment, nutrition bars and cleanses, and hopes to make a mark in beauty products.

Don’t be surprised someday soon, when there’s an entire  Skinnygirl aisle at every big box store, teeming with products women want.

I’ve been a fan of Frankel’s since her Bravo reality show,”Bethenny Getting Married.” She’s a smart cookie who makes me laugh, and the most honest and real celebrity diva around. You know exactly what you’re getting with her and she’s deeply devoted to her fans. Her huge following includes more than a million followers on Twitter and she’s launching a new national talk show in September.

The book covers a lot of ground and while some of the advice is obvious, the chapters on heathy eating and career building are interesting and useful. I also enjoyed pearls of wisdom in the home organization and style sections.

What I like best about Bethenny is her message of empowerment. She fell down a lot before she became the successful mogul she is today, but she kept getting back up and instead of just resting on her pile of money, she’s offering other women a hand up too.

I’d love you to read more in my review here.

Will you read the book? Tell me in the comments. I have a new copy of “Skinnygirl Solutions” to give away so check this space for details in the next week.

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American Idol home stretch

Posted on April 25, 2013 | 3 comments

idol icon

I would have liked to blog about my Idol top 3 predictions weeks ago (because I’m usually right)  but I haven’t been able to watch the show live all season. I’ve been too busy to devote 3 hours a week to the live broadcasts so the kids and I have spent a few weekends catching up on back episodes, which is not nearly as fun as watching live and voting.

The judges never used their “save” this season so it wasn’t a huge surprise when they said there would be no elimination this week. That leaves the top 4: Candice Glover, Angie Miller, Kree Harrison, and Amber Holcomb–  a strong group with no obvious weak link. It’s about time a girl won the title, which hasn’t happened since Jordin Sparks won in Season 6.  (Full list of past Idol winners here.)

Last 4 Idol contestants, (from left) Candice Glover, Angie Miller, Kree Harrison, Amber Holcomb/ FOX

Although I’m not wild about the judges this year, the talent has been amazing and the show production keeps getting more elaborate with each season. The sets, lighting, back up singers, hair, makeup, and styling make these kids look like stars early on.

They got rid of the celebrity mentors and stuck with Jimmy Iovine to work with the kids and give them advice. I like Jimmy. He’s a character and his brutal honesty is refreshing and helpful.

But the foundation of the show is the judges table. My thoughts thus far:

Nicki Manaj–  I’m not a fan.  She sits perched in her seat, stroking her long, faux blond tresses like Dr. Evil pawing Mr. Bigglesworth, as she gets ready to pounce.  She seems to constantly crave attention, with her style, wacky accents, and unnecessary roughness about performances that don’t suit her fancy. Some comments are sweet and supportive, others are venomous,  causing fights with fellow judges and an angry crowd.  I do give her credit for her honesty but I cringe when she speaks, which makes for compelling but uncomfortable TV.

Randy Jackson-– My overall feeling is that he’s mailing it in. I kind of get it after 12 seasons.  Towards the end of the season he’s been more excited about the performers– particularly Candice and Amber–  but since Nicki is so biting, it allows Randy to sit back and play Mr. Nice Guy. His advice is usually solid if he takes the time, but his comments don’t stand out, especially since we’ve heard them all before. He’s been wearing less crazy jackets and lapel pins this year, which is also a disappointment.

american-idol-judges

Keith Urban –  I like Keith.  He offers the most constructive advice and knows and loves music, which comes through in his comments. He is completely engaged in the process and wants the contestants to do well, which is what you want in a judge.  He often plays the role of peacemaker and has a classy way of saying “that performance was stinky but you’ll get it next time.” He also rocks a t-shirt better than most.

Mariah Carey – Oh dear. I want to like her. She’s amiable and earnest and often looks pretty, especially if you like cleavage. Her passion for music shines through. But the poor gal can’t put a sentence together to save her life.  She often goes on and on and says nothing. When she talks to contestants her eyes are looking somewhere else and she uses distracting hand gestures. So clearly uncomfortable, it’s painful to watch her falter, knowing her intentions are pure. This just isn’t the gig for her. It’s surprising to see her in this light because we’ve only known her as a confident performer with a powerhouse voice. She has every reason to be owning the moment, but she can’t do it.

Ryan Seacrest  keeps the show together. So smooth, but so accessible. He can handle any situation, any temperamental judge, any uncomfortable moment with charm and grace.

I was expecting a Candice-Angie showdown but after Amber and Candice took the bottom 2 spots this week, I’m rethinking. I always forget that it’s middle America voting and a lot of teenaged girls so I’m going to say it will be Kree and Angie in the finale and Angie will win in a landslide.

Who’s your favorite to win? Tell me in the comments.

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