Producer, Director Gil Gates Dies
Director, producer, and founder of the Geffen Playhouse and the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television, Gil Gates died on Monday at the age of 77, Variety reports. The loss of this long-time producer of the Academy Awards sparked reactions from many of his colleagues, including Tom Sherak, current president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, who said, “Gil was our colleague, our friend, and a former governor of the Academy. He was a consummate professional who gave the Academy and the world some of the most memorable moments in Oscar history. His passing is a tremendous loss to the entertainment industry, and our thoughts go out to his family.” Gil Gates is survived by “wife Dr. Judith Reichman, four children, two stepchildren, and grandchildren,” according to Variety.
Jennifer Lopez to Produce MTV Comedy
Cable channel MTV has picked up a scripted comedy from Jennifer Lopez’s production company Nuyorican Productions, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The 30-minute show is said to center on a female graduate of NYU who moves back home with her parents in Texas after the economy takes a downward turn. The script will be written by Grace Parra.
Justin Bieber Announces Holiday Projects
Teen singing sensation Justin Bieber has released a holiday album, “Under the Mistletow” in conjunction with a new charity effort, the “Believe Charity Drive,” which will benefit from proceeds from the new release. Believe allows donors to pick their cause of choice from a list that includes “Make-A-Wish,” “Boys & Girls Clubs,” and “Teenage Cancer Trust,” among others. “Under the Mistletoe” includes the new single “Mistletoe,” in addition to familiar favorites like “Silent Night,” “Drummer Boy,” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” Busta Rhymes, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, and The Band Perry are all featured artists on the record.
Compiled by Barbara Danza
