FEATURED POST
The former 'Facts of Life' star spills on her final three 'Survivor' adventure
Former “Facts of Life” star Lisa Whelchel – who played the iconic Blair Warner – knew that hiding the fact of her former fame would be rough going. But she managed to get through nearly an entire season as anonymous Lisa, a good Middle American Christian lady, who yes, admits to being a bit “wishy-washy” – and she managed to make it to the final three. MSN TV talked to Whelchel about her flip-flopping strategy, the burden she carried into the show, and what’s next for her.
Bing: More on "Survivor: Philippines" | Lisa Whelchel
MSN TV: How did you decide to do “Survivor”? Was it different for you than it was for the majority of the castaways, given your Hollywood history?
Lisa: It didn’t feel like a different kind of decision for me – because I was really coming to it from a fan-based point-of-view. I wasn’t thinking that it would be about reality TV or that stuff, it was more out of just the love of the game. I was approaching it like anybody else. Going in, it was 100 percent, ‘I get to play this game that I love.’ It wasn’t until I got to the Philippines that it sunk in that this might have some other ramifications that I didn’t think through.
When did you decide you wouldn’t reveal your professional past to the other players?
I had presumed that it would immediately just come out, and then spread through the tribe. I never thought that I would manage to go through the game without it being a known fact. It was very shocking to me and a wonderfully pleasant surprise and really part of what this whole journey has been for me – just playing as Lisa, not as that persona. That was a surprise blessing. Skupin knew from day one, and Penner, too, obviously.
How did you feel when Penner told everyone at the final council?
I was kind of taken aback – I didn’t expect it. But I probably should have. I know Penner and I know it reflects the show and I know that final tribal council and the drama that always plays out there. I should have seen it coming. But it caught me off guard.
And had you guys been in touch after you left?
Absolutely. We’d gone out to dinner with my brother and his wife, we are very close friends – I even said to him at dinner last week, ‘for the big picture, in the story of the season, you outing me in the tribal council needed to be in the last chapter.’ For great storytelling, it needed to happen.
He’s a storyteller after all.
He sure is.
The interesting thing about your alliance with Skupin was you guys frequently didn’t vote in the same direction.
We had a very unique alliance. We wanted to end up in the final two together, but we actually cared more about each other, personally, than about the two of us as an alliance. I said to him, with all the sincerity of my heart – and he said the same to be – ‘if it’s better for your game to vote against the way I’m voting, then vote that way. I really want you to play your best game, and if we can vote together, that’s all gravy.’ The truth is, we really just were rooting for each other.
Do you think that taking Denise to the final three to was a better idea that taking Malcolm, in hindsight?
I think so, even though they still said they would have voted Denise, either way, either one of them, sitting next to us, would have gotten more votes than either one of us. So it’s a moot point. And Malcolm’s young, he’ll be just fine. I’m glad that Denise, an older woman with a strong family and some solid roots, won $1 million.
Going into the final three, did you think you had a shot?
I was realistic about Denise’s story and the way she played the game – she played an almost flawless game. My only hope was that Abi would go back to Ponderosa – and since she didn’t like Denise or Skupin – she would poison the well, so to speak and remind Artis and Pete that I had stayed loyal to the Tandang tribe as long as I could. But that was a double-edged sword, because when that alliance disintegrated, it was taken more personally.
Some people would accuse you of being wishy-washy.
I would agree with that. I wouldn’t even try to debate that. Because what you saw on the outside was exactly what was going on inside. One minute, I wanted to play in a way that would reflect God and his character – loyal and trustworthy and not hurt people. And the next minute, I wanted to play this game the way it needed to be played, which is backstabbing and breaking promises and doing whatever it takes to get to the end. It was wishy-washy, because inside I was going through turmoil about whether this was just a game, or whether it was really a reflection of me as a person.
Plus: Want more "Survivor"? Meet the castaways from Season 25.
And how do you feel about that now?
At this point, it was a game, and there are rules to the game – everyone’s signed up, they know the rules to the game, and you make alliances that are going to be best for you in the end, and if they’re no longer good for you, you get one that is good for you. And you don’t necessarily tell them you’re changing alliances, you just let them find out at tribal council! If I could do it again, I would understand that it’s a game and not let my heart get so involved. Not just my heart, but my fear, too. My fear of judgment and fear of letting God down – which is way too big of a burden to carry. God didn’t put that burden on me, I did. And I’m so glad I don’t carry that anymore.
Would you play again?
I really don’t know, sincerely. It’s kind of like childbirth – you have to wait till you through it, and not only go through it, but let it maybe get to through the terrible twos as well before you can consider it again.
What’s next for you? Are you going back to Hollywood? Or is it civilian life?
I am moving to California, and I would love another sitcom. In the meantime, I’m very excited, because I’m going to do some cohosting with Jeff Probst on his show. I’m just going to see how that works. So my “Survivor” adventure continues.
And this interview wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t ask you if you still talk to the rest of the “Facts of Life” girls.
I do! All of the cast was encouraging me along the way. In fact, I got a text from Nancy McKeon last night congratulating me and saying that fans everywhere were probably really thrilled that I actually quoted the “Facts of Life” theme song during the finale.
That was definitely a highlight for me!
Missed the finale? Check out our play-by-play of this week's episode.
Amy's Baking Company adds immigration proceeding to public relations quagmire
WENN
Amy's Baking Company restaurateur Samy Bouzaglo, made infamous for his stint on Gordon Ramsay's show "Kitchen Nightmares," is facing deportation for withholding information about his criminal past. The Moroccan-born Israeli citizen was apparently less than forthcoming with immigration officials about drug distribution and extortion charges that landed him in prison before he came to the United States 13 years ago.
Bing: More about Amy's Baking Company
Bouzaglo is now mired in ongoing immigration court proceedings that could result in his expulsion from the country, AZ Central reports. His attorney, David Asser, says the matter began two years ago and is unrelated to his unflattering portrayal on FOX's "Kitchen Nightmares." His residency was the subject of a removal hearing on Monday in Arizona. Samy tells the Arizona Republic, "The FBI knows all about me ... The IRS knows. I want people to know about me. But not today, not tomorrow. I have nothing to hide."
Plus: 'Bachelorette': Where are they now? | Celebrities playing celebrities | Summer shows we're excited about
'Starting Strong' to chronicle what it means to live, eat and breathe Army life
WENN
Actor Ricky Schroder and his production company have joined forces with the U.S. Army to produce an unscripted series that will shed light on the different aspects of Army life. "Starting Strong," which is directed, narrated and produced by Schroder, aims to educate Americans about daily life in the Army and potential careers within the organization. Viewers will be introduced to more than 150 military occupational specialties by Army prospects who will share their personal on-the-job experiences. Schroder tells the Hollywood Reporter, "This is sort of new for the Army to give this behind-the-scenes, open-door look at what it means to live, eat and breathe Army life. Viewers are going to see real young men and women getting real experience in living, eating and breathing Army culture and jobs."
Bing: More about Ricky Schroder
One focus for the series will center around the expectations of military candidates and how they match up with reality. The series will follow trainees through the challenges of their chosen profession until they ultimately decide to join the Army or return to civilian life. Schroder explains, "Sometimes what the families want the young man or woman to do is different than what they end up doing. And the Army's standards are higher than ever. So, in some cases, the Army may not want you because you are just not up to standards. You will see some of that, but it will be handled in a very delicate and gentle way." The 10-week chronicle is set to debut on FOX stations on June 2, with four additional episodes available online.
Plus: 'Bachelorette': Where are they now? | Celebrities playing celebrities | Summer shows we're excited about
'Who Do You Think You Are?' to return in July on TLC
WENN
Lisa Kudrow's family tree-themed "Who Do You Think You Are?" has taken root at a new network after bosses at NBC axed it last year. Sarah Jessica Parker, Susan Sarandon and Lionel Richie were among the celebrities who investigated their ancestral history on the series, which ran for three seasons and was executive produced by former "Friends" star Kudrow. NBC executives decided to cancel "Who Do You Think You Are?" last May, but it has now been picked up by TLC.
A statement from Kudrow reads, "I've never stopped hearing about how much people love 'Who Do You Think You Are?,' and I've always known that we've had more great stories to share. TLC is a great home for the series, and we join our excited celebrity participants as we unearth some amazing background and surprising histories." The new eight-part reality series will kick off on July 23.
Plus: 'Bachelorette': Where are they now? | Celebrities playing celebrities | Summer shows we're excited about
Former 'America's Got Talent' star headed to Britain's 'X Factor'
WENN
Former "America's Got Talent" star Sharon Osbourne is back in the judge's seat after signing up to return to Britain's "The X Factor." "The Talk" co-host, who is one of the original judges on the TV talent show, will take a seat on the panel alongside singers Nicole Scherzinger and Gary Barlow, as well as Irish music manager Louis Walsh. Announcing her comeback, executive producer Simon Cowell says, "Three words I never thought I'd say ... Welcome back, Sharon!" Osbourne, who starred on "The X Factor" from 2004 to 2007, adds, "I couldn't be happier about coming back for the 10th anniversary of 'X Factor.' I can't wait to give Gary Barlow a big hug, sit next to the gorgeous Nicole and of course throw water on dear Louis. Yay!"
Bing: More about Sharon Osbourne
She later tweeted: "How lucky am I to have 2 jobs @TheTalk_CBS & @TheXFactor? I will be going back & forth all yr (year), best of both worlds!" The news was confirmed on Wednesday following months of speculation about who would replace British pop star Tulisa Contostavlos in the upcoming 10th series. Meanwhile, the judges for the new season of "The X Factor" in the U.S. have now been set: Kelly Rowland and Latin pop star Paulina Rubio will be replacing the departed Britney Spears and L.A. Reid on the show.
Plus: 'Bachelorette': Where are they now? | Celebrities playing celebrities | Summer shows we're excited about
Report says FOX has approached Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson and others
"American Idol" is in need of a makeover, and that could mean turning past winners and contestants into judges.
FOX and the producers behind "Idol" have approached first-season champion Kelly Clarkson and former contestant Jennifer Hudson to become judges, reports Vulture. While FOX has yet to comment about the show's 13th season and who will be judging, sources tell the website the network has shortlisted Adam Lambert and Clay Aiken as well.
"I'd like to see a past 'American Idol' contestant," Angie Miller, who finished third this season, told TVGuide.com, when talking about future judges. "They really understand what this process is like and what you do during the week. (It should be) someone who gets it."
Plus: Summer shows we're excited about | 'Felicity': Where are they now? | 'The Bachelorette' Season 9
Miller's wish could come true. According to The Wrap, all four judges from Season 12 -- Randy Jackson, Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban -- and even producer Nigel Lythgoe are getting the boot. But so far, Jackson has been the only one to officially wave goodbye.
But a change in personnel is inevitable. "American Idol" suffered a considerable ratings slump this season. The network and producers are also reportedly fed up with paying out huge sums to big-named stars who don't stick around. Although Clarkson and Hudson wouldn't be cheap, they should be more relatable because they've competed on the show.
They might also presumably attract a broader, younger audience. "Everything is on the table," Kevin Reilly, FOX's entertainment chairman, told reporters last week. And if the Vulture story holds true, that means fans of "Idol" could see a judges' table full of familiar and friendlier faces.
"American Idol" Season 13 returns to FOX in 2014.
| Tags: | American Idol |
Amy's Baking Company cancels press conference, part ways with PR firm
WENN
Lawyers representing Gordon Ramsay's "Kitchen Nightmares" have warned Amy's Baking Company owners to stop discussing their "unflattering portrayal" or face paying $100,000 each. Amy and Samy Bouzaglo were sent a legal notice from the show's attorneys last Friday after "Kitchen Nightmare" bosses learned of the couple's plans to hold a press conference in advance of the restaurant's "grand reopening" to tell their side of the story, according to Radar Online. The couple ended up canceling their press conference. Shortly after receiving the cease and desist from FOX, Amy's Baking Company was dropped by their new PR firm, Rose+Moser+Allyn Public & Online Relations on account of what publicist Jason Rose describes as "differences on public relations strategies."
Bing: More about Amy Baking Company
According to reports, the letter claims that any media session, especially one derogatory against the show, would constitute a breach of contract and make the couple liable for $100,000 in damages each. It reads, "We understand that you are planning a public event on May 21, 2013, at which you will discuss your experiences and your 'unflattering portrayals' on the show. If you speak about the show without Upper Ground's and FOX's prior approval, and if you disparage the show, its host, or its producers, you will breach your obligations under Paragraph 10 of your Personal Release and Paragraph 14 of your Participant Agreement." The letter goes on to state, "These agreements prohibit you from speaking publicly about Kitchen Nightmares, other than to acknowledge 'the mere fact of your participation in the Series in personal publicity relating to yourself.' Your conduct exposes each of you to liability for liquidated damages of $100,000." In their episode of "Kitchen Nightmares", the Bouzaglos were unwilling to accept chef Gordon Ramsey's attempts to rehabilitate their struggling restaurant.
Plus: Summer shows we're excited about | 'Felicity': Where are they now? | 'The Bachelorette' Season 9
'Voice' coach recounts experience at Denny's with fellow bandmate
WENN
"Voice" judge Adam Levine swore off drugs early on in his career after a strange experience on prescription medication Ambien. The Maroon 5 frontman and his bandmate James Valentine mistook the sedatives for stimulants and took them while on tour. But instead of giving a much-needed boost, the drug knocked them out cold -- while they were waiting for dinner.
Levine explains, "We had a brief experience one time with what I guess was Ambien. James Valentine and I, we didn't really know what it was ... It was the first and last time we took this drug. But we were at Denny's at some shady part of the city of whatever part of the country we were in, and we took it and we ordered the food ... and we woke up at the table, what must have been an hour (later) ... I was like, 'Oh, no.' And James had his head down, so I was like, 'Hey, man. Hey, we should get out of here.' We didn't eat our food. We sheepishly paid our bills and walked out, and everyone's looking (at us) like, 'What's wrong with these guys?' And then since then I've never done drugs."
Plus: Summer shows we're excited about | 'Felicity': Where are they now? | 'The Bachelorette' Season 9
Soap veteran and pop star join Jon Lovitz, Sebastian Bach, Darrell Hammond, more
WENN
Actress Lisa Rinna and pop singer Debbie Gibson have joined the cast of the upcoming reality show "Sing Your Face Off." ABC recently snapped up the rights to the hit Spanish talent show "Your Face Sounds Familiar," where celebrities take on the identity of a legendary singer each week. Veteran soap star Rinna, comedian Jon Lovitz and former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach have signed on as contestants.
Bing: More about 'Sing Your Face Off'
Toronto Raptors basketball ace Landry Fields and teenage Disney Channel singer/actress China Anne McClain are also gearing up for the challenge. The show will be hosted by "Scandal" star John Barrowman. Their performances will be judged by Gibson and comedian Darrell Hammond. An air date for the show has not yet been set.
Plus: Summer shows we're excited about | 'Felicity': Where are they now? | 'The Bachelorette' Season 9
primetime tonight
tv news
- Vin Diesel's talks pot, steroids and Facebook in bizarre 'Tonight Show' interview
- 'S.W.A.T.' star Steve Forrest dies at 87
- Lea Michele has book scheduled for 2014 release
- McCain: It's common sense that consumers should choose their cable channels
- Billy Crystal pilot 'The Comedians' gets order from FX
- Emma Roberts to join 'American Horror Story' for Season 3
- 'Bad Teacher' series gets late pickup from CBS
- 'Fashion Police' strike: Both sides dig in on eve of rally
- 'Real Housewives of Orange County' star Tamra Barney lands spin-off
- Piers Morgan writing book about life at CNN
meet the bloggers
Deanna Barnert | Los Angeles, Calif.
Entertainment journalist Deanna "TVDeeva" Barnert visits sets, interviews industry players and critiques the final product. Buzz's daytime TV queen covers it all for MSN TV, but loves her sitcoms, soaps and any juicy drama that doesn't call itself Reality TV.
follow msn tv
