Les Paul Has Died
Legendary guitarist and inventor Les Paul passed away at the age of 94 on Thursday, due to complications from pneumonia. Paul is credited with developing many aspects of instrument amplification and multitrack recording—two basic elements of rock music today. The Les Paul guitar, which has been produced by Gibson since the 1950s, is one of the most widely used guitars in the music industry. Paul was also the author of many recordings and recipient of a number of gold records and Grammy awards. Les Paul is survived by his three sons Lester, Gene and Robert, his daughter Colleen Wess, son-in-law Gary Wess, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Tony Danza to ‘Teach’
Tony Danza has commanded the small screen and Broadway stage – how hard can a little classroom be, right? “I’m so scared. You have no idea,” Danza told the AP about his upcoming reality series, “Teach,” in which the actor will co-teach 10th grade English in Philadelphia’s Northeast High School. Show producers are awaiting the results of an August 19th vote to approve the filming of 13 episodes. Some locals have condemned the idea, pointing to the exploitation of students. Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter is in favor of the show, saying in a recent public statement, “There are too many negative images of our city's young people and schools on television. I believe that 'Teach' represents a unique opportunity to highlight many of our city's dedicated teachers and administrators, and the talented students they serve." If approved, “Teach” will air on cable network A&E.
‘Eat, Pray, Love’ Films in Brooklyn
The film adaptation of “Eat, Pray, Love” the best-selling memoir of author Elizabeth Gilbert, is in production. Lucky Brooklynites enjoyed glimpses of the cast and crew, including director Ryan Murphy and actor Julia Roberts in Cobble Hill this past week. The story, subtitled “One Woman’s Search for Everything,” describes Elizabeth Gilbert’s journey across a number of countries to learn more about herself and life in general. “Eat, Pray, Love” is expected to hit theaters in 2011.
David Mamet Working on ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’
“The Diary of Anne Frank,” the infamous, true story of a young girl and her family hiding from Nazi occupation in the Netherlands, will be brought to the big screen once again. Playwright David Mamet will write and direct the picture for Disney. Former adaptations of the novel have included Tony-award winning stage productions and an Oscar-winning movie. The release date of the latest version has yet to be announced.
Brad Pitt for Mayor?
A grass roots effort is, apparently, underway in New Orleans with the hope of convincing actor Brad Pitt to run for mayor of his adopted hometown. Pitt laughed off the idea on NBC’s “Today” show, saying “I don’t have a chance.” The actor has worked for the past few years to rebuild the city after being ravaged by Hurricane Katrina, forming the charitable organization, “Make It Right Foundation.”
