Taylor Lautner’s New Gig a ‘Stretch’
Actor Taylor Lautner, whose role in “The Twilight Saga” jolted him to stardom, has been cast as Stretch Armstrong in Universal Pictures’s upcoming 3D film by the same name.
“Access Hollywood" interviewed Universal Pictures’s co-chairman Donna Langley, who said: “In the past two years, Taylor has emerged as a real star at the global box office. He brings the perfect balance of energy and athleticism to the role of an unlikely super hero with a fantastic super power. We couldn’t be more pleased that he has agreed to be our Stretch.”
Stretch Armstrong was first introduced to the public as an action figure in 1976. The 2010 film is the result of a licensing deal between toy maker Hasbro and the studio.
Ellen DeGeneres to Debut on ‘American Idol’
Comedian and talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres will take her seat on the “American Idol” judge panel this week, replacing former judge Paula Abdul and carrying the high hopes of fans, network executives, and advertisers on her shoulders. DeGeneres’ debut, airing on Tuesday, will be watched with much interest as the future of the talent show faces a recent dip in ratings and the impending departure of “Idol” icon Simon Cowell this spring.
The comedian will sit beside Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Kara DioGuardi this week as she weighs in on the fate of star hopefuls. Of her judging duties, she recently told “Entertainment Tonight,” "I hate hurting people's feelings, so that, I think, is the hardest part."
Amy Robach, Andrew Shue Wed
“Today Show” anchor Amy Robach married former “Melrose Place” star Andrew Shue this weekend in Manhattan. According to “People,” the ceremony took place Saturday afternoon on the bride’s birthday at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers.
Guests in attendance included Meredith Vieira, Ann Curry, and Kathie Lee Gifford. During an on-air toast on Friday with “Today Show” colleagues, Robach revealed that it was fellow-anchor, Natalie Morales, who introduced her to Shue.
Sheryl Crow Heading to ‘Cougar Town’
Grammy-award-winning-singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow will take on a recurring role in ABC’s “Cougar Town,” starring Courtney Cox Arquette. The musician will likely portray the love interest of character Grayson on the show and appear beginning in March, according to reports. This is not Crow’s first foray onto the small screen, as was most recently seen in a guest appearance on NBC’s “30 Rock.”
