Daniel Radcliffe Newest Young Celebrity to Struggle with Addiction (ContributorNetwork)

Jonathan Rhys Meyers

Jonathan Rhys Meyers made headlines just days ago after what many initially believed to be a suicide attempt. He has battled addiction for years, checking in and out of rehab facilities numerous times. After nearly overdosing on pills, he has entered rehab for the fifth time. According to the Huffington Post, his last stint in treatment was just this past May. The "Tudors" star has yet to make any public announcement regarding this most recent incident.

Prince Harry

Prince Harry, the youngest son of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana, has a reputation for his hard-partying ways. The UK Daily Mail reported that Charles sent Harry to a treatment facility after he admitted to smoking cannabis and drinking liquor back in 2002. His stay lasted one day and seemed to serve more as a warning and punishment than anything else.

Considering that Prince Harry still makes headlines for late nights at London clubs, it seems doubtful that he has stopped drinking, but his behavior has toned down a bit over the years.

Haley Joel Osment

Actor Haley Joel Osment gained instant stardom after appearing in "The Sixth Sense" next to Bruce Willis back in 1999. Just seven years later, he was arrested for drunk driving and drug possession. He suffered a broken rib after crashing his car into a mailbox in California. According to the Associated Press, Osment was ordered by a judge to enter a treatment facility and attend 26 Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

Kirsten Dunst

Another celebrity who found fame at a very young age, Kirsten Dunst, found herself in rehab in 2008. She didn't discuss it publicly until 2010, avoiding the question in many interviews. According to The Huffington Post, Dunst insists that the treatment she received was for depression. She did admit that she had nights where she drank too much, but insisted that she did not have an addiction problem. She has not gotten into any trouble recently, so it appears that even if she did have a problem, the "Interview With A Vampire Star" is doing well now.

Seann William Scott

"American Pie" star Seann William Scott announced in April of this year that he successfully completed a 30-day treatment program for undisclosed personal and health problems, according to the Los Angeles Times. Scott is best known as Steve Stiffler in the three "American Pie" films. He was out of rehab in time to start filming yet another movie in the series, which will feature much of the original cast and focus on the group's 10-year high school reunion.

Celebrities who gain fame quickly at a young age are particularly vulnerable to addiction. The younger the star, the greater the odds they will end up in rehab at some point. Some enter rehab once and seem to straighten out, as in the case of Kirsten Dunst. Others, like Jonathan Rhys Meyers, face a more difficult road on the path to recovery. Hopefully Daniel Radcliffe is able to enjoy sobriety for a long time to come.

Sources:

Us Magazine " Daniel Radcliffe: I Became So Reliant on Alcohol During Harry Potter Filming " Via Yahoo! OMG

Huffington Post " Jonathan Rhys Meyers Overdoses, Hospitalized "

Daily Mail UK " Harry Sent to Rehab Clinic "

USA Today " Haley Joel Osment Pleads No Contes t"

Huffington Post " Kirsten Dunst Talks Rehab for Depression "

LA Times " Seann William Scott out of rehab in time for American Pie Sequel "

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Daniel Radcliffe Reveals Alcohol Problem, Newfound Sobriety (ContributorNetwork)

Daniel Radcliffe hadn't been associated with alcohol, drugs, or most other addictions that young stars generally have. Yet Radcliffe disclosed a past alcohol addiction in the new issue of Britain's GQ, which had gone on behind the scenes of the last Harry Potter movie. However, he reassured fans that he has been sober since last summer, which makes this summer even more of a milestone for the former boy wizard.

Radcliffe's final duels as Harry Potter will be revealed July 15 when Deathly Hallows Part 2 finally comes out. It will be the last victory lap for the movie series and the three young stars who powered it from the beginning.

Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson have been hailed as a unique trio of child stars, having lived under the Potter spotlight for a decade. But through it all, they appeared to have avoided the pratfalls of childhood stardom, unlike so many of their peers.

Yet it turned out to be a different story for Radcliffe a few years ago, as he became "reliant on alcohol" after drinking whiskey on the set of Half-Blood Prince. However, in spite of all the tabloid attention and intense buildup to the end of the series, the press, blogs and paparazzi somehow managed to miss catching him with a drink.

Other teen stars would have been caught, labeled party animals, and gone through the usual scandals. But perhaps Radcliffe is different from the pack, since he claims to have overcome his vices after Deathly Hallows was complete. Not only did he become sober afterward, he kicked off the next stage of his career on Broadway by starring in How to Succeed In Business Without Really Trying.

Entertainment Weekly reports Radcliffe told GQ that the traditional "famous person's lifestyle" isn't suited to him after all, which most already figured out long ago. That is why these revelations about alcohol are probably so surprising to most fans and onlookers. Yet since he claims to have overcome these problems on his own and away from the spotlight, it shouldn't be such a blow to his image -- in fact, it only backs it up.

This kind of story about regaining sobriety and committing to a quieter lifestyle cements Radcliffe's reputation for being level-headed and grounded, even though fans now know he wasn't always that way. Although there are bound to be a few jokes about Harry Potter being a drunk, they will be a mere drop in the bucket in the long run, assuming there's no relapse.

In any case, the alcohol revelations are a mere subplot for Radcliffe and the Potter team compared to the buildup for Deathly Hallows Part 2. The countdown is down to a mere 10 days before the big opening day July 15.

Sources

Entertainment Weekly- "Daniel Radcliffe reveals problem with alcohol"

People Magazine- "Daniel Radcliffe Reveals His Alcohol Problem"

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Daniel Radcliffe Reveals Alcohol Problem, Newfound Sobriety (ContributorNetwork)

Daniel Radcliffe hadn't been associated with alcohol, drugs, or most other addictions that young stars generally have. Yet Radcliffe disclosed a past alcohol addiction in the new issue of Britain's GQ, which had gone on behind the scenes of the last Harry Potter movie. However, he reassured fans that he has been sober since last summer, which makes this summer even more of a milestone for the former boy wizard.

Radcliffe's final duels as Harry Potter will be revealed July 15 when Deathly Hallows Part 2 finally comes out. It will be the last victory lap for the movie series and the three young stars who powered it from the beginning.

Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson have been hailed as a unique trio of child stars, having lived under the Potter spotlight for a decade. But through it all, they appeared to have avoided the pratfalls of childhood stardom, unlike so many of their peers.

Yet it turned out to be a different story for Radcliffe a few years ago, as he became "reliant on alcohol" after drinking whiskey on the set of Half-Blood Prince. However, in spite of all the tabloid attention and intense buildup to the end of the series, the press, blogs and paparazzi somehow managed to miss catching him with a drink.

Other teen stars would have been caught, labeled party animals, and gone through the usual scandals. But perhaps Radcliffe is different from the pack, since he claims to have overcome his vices after Deathly Hallows was complete. Not only did he become sober afterward, he kicked off the next stage of his career on Broadway by starring in How to Succeed In Business Without Really Trying.

Entertainment Weekly reports Radcliffe told GQ that the traditional "famous person's lifestyle" isn't suited to him after all, which most already figured out long ago. That is why these revelations about alcohol are probably so surprising to most fans and onlookers. Yet since he claims to have overcome these problems on his own and away from the spotlight, it shouldn't be such a blow to his image -- in fact, it only backs it up.

This kind of story about regaining sobriety and committing to a quieter lifestyle cements Radcliffe's reputation for being level-headed and grounded, even though fans now know he wasn't always that way. Although there are bound to be a few jokes about Harry Potter being a drunk, they will be a mere drop in the bucket in the long run, assuming there's no relapse.

In any case, the alcohol revelations are a mere subplot for Radcliffe and the Potter team compared to the buildup for Deathly Hallows Part 2. The countdown is down to a mere 10 days before the big opening day July 15.

Sources

Entertainment Weekly- "Daniel Radcliffe reveals problem with alcohol"

People Magazine- "Daniel Radcliffe Reveals His Alcohol Problem"

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'DWTS' Winner Not a Blonde Celebrity; No Surprise (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward and dancing partner Kym Johnson were named the winners of "Dancing with the Stars" Tuesday, reports Reuters. Statistically not a shocker, as the pair danced off against two blonde celebrities in the season finale: actress Kirstie Ally and Disney star Chelsea Kane. In the 12 season history of the popular celebrity dancing show, a fair-haired (at the time) star has only once victoriously claimed the prized Mirror Ball trophy. That honor went to gymnast and Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson in the show's eighth season.

Given his smoothly shaved head, Ward's black hair is only shown in his barely there facial hair -- similar to season three winner Emmitt Smith, only not as abundant. Which also means more bald men have won than blonds.

Non-Blond Celebs Rule 'DWTS'

The overwhelming amount of triumphant dark-haired celebrities to win the ballroom competition is a trend that started in the summer of 2005, when "General Hospital" actress Kelly Monaco became the first "DWTS" winner. A blonde, Stacy Keibler took third place in season two, an occurrence that wouldn't repeat again until after Johnson's win. Season 10 also featured a pale-tressed third place star.

In fact, out of 12 seasons and 36 final three competitors, only six of the celebrities have been blond. These include Alley, Kane, Johnson and Keibler, leaving only Kelly Osbourne and Erin Andrews to finish off the list. Alley won the distinction Tuesday night of becoming the first blond (albeit dyed) to win second place.

Even the 'DWTS' Judges are Brunette

Judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli both have brunette locks. What about head judge Len Goodman's silvery white hair? Once upon a time, the dancer enjoyed a full head of dark strands.

Even of the nine guest judges, Osbourne has been the only one to have blonde hair at the time. She appeared on the show in that capacity last season.

Blonds May Have More Fun, but Can They Dance?

Just using "Dancing with the Stars" as an example, you might start to believe that blonds just aren't as good on the dance floor. That, perhaps, the best of sultry gracefulness can only be found in the movements of the brunette or ebony-haired. That is, if you ignore an important aspect of the show: the pro dancers.

Watching the stars bust a move is novel and even sometimes beautiful, but make no mistake, the superior dancing is naturally to be found in the bodies of the professional dancers. On the "DWTS" stage, it is the blond pros who have the majority of Mirror Ball wins.

Keep in mind that out of 12 seasons, only seven dancers have been part of winning pairs. Three have been blond, dancing to victory a combined total of seven times. Tow-headed three-time champ Derek Hough leads the pros in all-time wins. His sister, Julianne Hough, and Kym Johnson, equally fair-haired, have each won twice.

Would Kirstie Alley be celebrating a win right now, instead of Hines Ward, had she only gone back to brunette? Probably not. Hines consistently impressed the judges and had the support of his fans. The "Dancing with the Stars" winner typically being dark-haired is likely coincidence. Besides, that tactic didn't pan out for Audrina Patridge last season.

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Oprah's Book Club a Seal of Approval that Goes a Long Way (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | This Wednesday marks the end of Oprah Winfrey's 25-year-long streak as America's number one day time television talk show host. The authenticity of her interviews, whether serious or light-hearted, will leave the day time talk show circuit wanting. "The Oprah Winfrey Show" will surely be missed by many, and even more by those who, every year, looked forward to her famous Oprah Book Club selections.

I was first introduced to the "club" when I was 16, a junior in high school, who needed to find a way to pass some time in a math class in which I was the teacher's aide. "She Comes Undone," by Wally Lamb, immediately grabbed my attention at the school library. I saw that it had Oprah's blessing and figured I should give it a try.

The story circled around the character of Dolores Price and followed her life from her toddler years all the way till she was 40. I found it funny and at times haunting, especially when real life lessons were brought to life with Lamb's words through the eyes of Dolores.

At times, I was so deeply entrenched in the book that when the bell would ring to signal for us to go to our next period, I wouldn't hear it. It was the kind of book that you tell yourself you will only read one chapter before you go to bed, and then the next thing you knew it was well past midnight and you still didn't want to put it down. Yes, it was that good.

Over the years, I have read other books from Oprah's Book Club, such as "White Oleander" by Janet Fitch and "The Deep End of the Ocean" by Jacquelyn Mitchard. Both deal in some aspect with the dysfunctions of having a mother and being a mother, something both my sister and I could identify with.

In "White Oleander," I poured over the story of Janet Astrid and her search for her place in this world, from foster home to foster home, and the hold her mother had over her despite the fact that she was imprisoned.

"The Deep End of the Ocean" centered on Beth, a mother whose child goes missing and the ensuing grief and depression that followed, only to have him miraculously show up at her front door one day, nine years later, to ask if he can mow their lawn.

Though Mitchard could have put a period and ended it at that, she continues on to cover what goes on in a family after something like this has happened, and how, though it is a blessing, it is not necessarily a happy ending. For me, I could feel the desperation through Mitchard's words: the desperation of a family falling apart and trying to pull itself back together despite all of it.

I cannot possibly say if I would have ever read these books had they not had Oprah's seal of approval. Not because I am extremely selective of what I read, but because Oprah's spotlight allowed them to be noticed when perhaps they might not have been. The stories in these books have caused me to reflect on my own life and relationships. They have allowed me to read thoughts and emotions described in ways that, at times, I thought were indescribable.

"The Oprah Winfrey Show" will be missed indeed. Thankfully, we shall not have to fret too much because we still have OWN, the Oprah Winfrey Network on cable TV. However, the fate of the Oprah Book Club is still unknown; there has been no further mention of if it will make it to OWN or not. Hopefully it will make a crossover, but if not, then I and millions of readers will forever be grateful for the Oprah Book Club and the 65 books we might not have read because of it.

For a complete list of the Oprah Book Club selections, please see:

http://www.oprah.com/oprahsbookclub/Complete-List-of-Oprahs-Book-Club-Books

Source:

Carolyn Kellogg, "Oprah's Book Club: She spoke, we read" Los Angeles Times

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The Oprah Effect: 3 Books I Would Never Have Read (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | As "The Oprah Winfrey Show" ends, I wonder what I am going to do during her allotted time slot. For many years at 4 p.m., I faithfully found a remote control to tune in to the episodes of irreplaceable entertainment, encouraging me to live my best life. The media mogul is now ending her show after 25 years.

Oprah's star-studded farewell celebration will air early this week, leading up to her final show on Wednesday. The surprise event kicked off at Chicago's United Center last week, according to the Associated Press.

Harpo Productions received over 154,000 ticket requests to see the historic event, but that number pales in comparison to all of the "extended family" she has accumulated over the years. Although her show is ending, she will still be in the forefront, with her new network, OWN, and O Magazine.

Yet as this particular chapter ends, I cannot help but feel like a close friend is moving away. As a small girl, I could remember the women in my life always had Oprah on at her dedicated time, whether I liked it or not. As the issues floated over my young mind, I could not possibly know the impact that she would make upon my life.

One legacy that has made an impact on the world, including myself, is the Oprah Book Club. For over 10 years, the show featured books that she felt worthy of her stamp of approval and a global conversation.

Like Winfrey, it seems like I have been an avid reader my whole life. I read one of her book club selections, The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, around the age of 12. When my peers' favorite pastimes were music and fashion, it comforted me to know that Oprah was a reader too.

Though the show is ending and my heart is saddened, it has caused me to reflect on my favorite books that Oprah has enticed me to read.

1. A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle

Oprah decided that she would use her show to give back to the world. One of those ways was discussing the spiritual side of our lives, so she introduced authors of books exploring different approaches to our traditional thoughts of spirituality. In Tolle's display of thinking, we should be conscious of our thoughts and the world around us.

This book is so profound: It attempts to explain the part of us he calls the "egoic mind," which is dysfunctional by nature. With this book, I became more aware of what was going on around me, from my thoughts to the movies I watch. The book points out that science and technology, although beneficial, magnify our abnormal behavior. That is why we can watch movies of people beaten and killed for our entertainment.

2. She's Come Undone by Wally Lamb

Oprah was so taken by this book in 1992 that she gave Wally Lamb a call to thank him personally for writing it, the author wrote for USA Today. A few years later, Oprah offered this book as a one of her book club selections. That is where I come in.

This book is incredibly sad. The main character, Delores, went from having depressing circumstances as a teenager which catapulted her to a sad adulthood. Nonetheless, the craftsmanship is undeniable. As my heart twisted with all of her wrong choices, I could not help but think, "Did someone actually make this up?" The character seemed so real.

I would have never picked up this nondescript book if it had not been for Oprah. This book prompted me to look at my life and declare that it is not so bad. Whatever hand that is given to me, I have the choice to hold it or fold it.

3. White Oleander by Janet Fitch

Oprah brought this book to my attention. Astrid, the main character, is a young girl who was born into awful circumstances, such as a murderous mother and moving from foster home to foster home. Oprah loved this book; not only were the characters believable, but the way Fitch put her words together made a beautiful arrangement.

"I fell in love with a story that deeply moved me, and vivid passages that described the sky as the color of peaches and compared sorrow to the taste of a copper penny," writes Oprah. This book, although sad, was not depressing. A poetic journey of youth and self-discovery, White Oleander, a book I would never have read, will have a place in my heart forever.

When Winfrey does her final closing, her ambition to bring hope to her viewers will be a success. From her candid conversations with celebrities and newsmakers to prompting her viewers to enjoy literature, she must know her efforts are appreciated and will be missed dearly.

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Oprah's Finale: Was it Too Much Hollywood? (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | Did Oprah Winfrey go for too much "Hollywood" as she wrapped up her 25-year run of the most popular talk show on television this week?

Die-hard Oprah fans wouldn't think so. Oprah could've trotted out Charles Manson and the crowd would've gone wild. But some critics of Oprah feel as her show grew, Oprah went away from what made her show special in the early years and became more of a continuing episode of "Oprah's Favorite Things."

Her final guest list included A-list celebs like Madonna, Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, and Oprah seemed shocked that they would all show up. "Let's do away with the notion that Oprah was shocked by every guest who trotted out, This-Is-Your-Life Style, to the delight of thousands of her most loyal fans," wrote Rebecca Traister of The Los Angeles Times. Over the years, Oprah used to sprinkle in celebrity appearances, but they always were a small part of a bigger issue she was discussing. In recent years, the show became more about Oprah as a celeb and her embracing celebs any chance she could.

The U.K. Guardian thought the star power at the final show also may have been a little too much. "The list read like the cream of the Vanity Fair Oscar party," it added.

Through all these years, Oprah kept her base and kept filming her show in Chicago. This was a sense of pride for all people in the Midwest. Oprah felt at home in Chicago and the people loved her back because she thought like a Midwesterner. When Oprah became a big star, did she lose touch with the fan base that made her so popular?

I think so, but it wasn't all Oprah's fault. Our society changed, and not all for the better. Celebrities became front page news, and it all kind of started when O.J. Simpson took that slow ride in a Ford Bronco, and his trial that followed. "The Oprah Winfrey Show" kind of evolved right with society and pop culture, that is why people kept tuning in, even though she stopped tackling hard-hitting issues on regular basis.

Singer Aretha Franklin summed it up so well at a concert that was thrown for Oprah following her final taping. "She has set a tremendous example for women, professional women and certainly, [she's] a leader, a humanitarian."

Rick Limpert covers sports, technology and politics in and around Atlanta. He'll be watching to see what Oprah comes up with next.

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Hendricks, Other Full-Figured Celebrities Stay True to Themselves (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | Mad Men actress Christina Hendricks has found herself in an all-too-familiar place recently: defending her figure. Yes, the actress is gorgeous, all five feet, seven inches and 150-something pounds. Of course, not looking the Hollywood norm has her fending off plastic surgery rumors. The actress has come out against accusations that she had breast implants, adamantly stating that her breasts are real, reports CBS. It's an odd thing having to defend yourself for loving you the way you are. In Hollywood, she's not alone.

Years ago, actress Camryn Manheim proclaimed "This is for all the fat girls!" after winning an Emmy for her work on the television show The Practice, according to the Los Angeles Times. She instantly became a role model for women everywhere, showing that you don't have to be too thin to be successful in Hollywood. Since then, the actress has had a steady stream of work, from film to television. She's maintained her stance on weight, and shows no signs of slowing down. She became the voice of many and brought new life to television. Not all women are stick-thin, nor should they be.

If there's any young, positive role model for full-figured women, it's the singer Adele, a major success in the music industry who shows no preference for diets. In a recent Rolling Stone interview, she proclaimed that her life was too dramatic to throw dieting in the mix, adding that her music is for the ears, dismissing the notion that only thin singers are meant to be successful. In recent months, her sophomore album, 21, has dominated album charts without Adele showing any sign of losing pounds. Not only is she immensely talented, but gorgeous, proud and unapologetic to boot.

Another singer known for her voluptuousness and bravado is the leader singer of The Gossip. Beth Ditto is a big girl who lets everyone know it, often stripping down to her underwear in concert. She's appeared on magazine covers wearing either little or nothing at all; who doesn't love a girl who's proud of her body? There's no inch of waif with her, and you can't help but love it.

These women are role models for their unabashed-ness. Women everywhere with any insecurity about their bodies need to know they're not alone, and they have nothing to be ashamed of. These are talented women, known more for their work than for their weight. What a great start to what hopefully becomes the norm: women known more for their talent and work rather than for what they look like. And from the looks of things, there are bound to be many more women like these in their wake.

Sources

David W. Freeman, "Christina Hendricks bares truth about breasts: Did 'Mad Men' star buck implant trend?", CBSNews.com

Toure, "Adele Opens Up About Her Inspiratons, Looks And Stage Fright in New Rolling Stone Cover Story", RollingStone.com

Steve Weinstein, "No Small Feat", the Los Angeles Times

Giles Hattersly, "The Brilliance of Beth Ditto", the Sunday Times

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Factbox: Business History Reveals Horrors of a Trump Presidency (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | It was the announcement that shocked no one. At an NBC event to announce its new fall lineup Monday, Donald Trump announced that he would not run in the 2012 presidential election, according to CNN. Trump originally told media that his announcement would follow the season finale of his prime time show, "Celebrity Apprentice." The early announcement likely would have soothed fidgety advertisers not sure about signing on for the coming season if Trump bailed on his show.

The reason Trump's announcement went as expected by most Americans is that he never had any intention of being a serious candidate. Why would he? He would have to disclose what has, up until now, been private financial information. He would have to give up many of his business dealings and divest himself of several investments. He would have to serve the financial needs of the country rather than his own. He would have to clean up his mouth and learn diplomacy -- something Trump has never been good at. He would have to work with others, both those who do and do not agree with his policies. He would have to make sound financial decisions -- another skill Trump sorely lacks.

But wait a minute, you might say. Trump is a brilliant businessman. His name is all over buildings around the world. He's one of the world's richest men. Isn't he? Here's a short history of Donald Trump and his business acumen:

* When Trump took over his father's company, Elizabeth Trump and Son, as CEO, his first task was removing his grandmother's name from the company and renaming it The Trump Organization.

* Trump's penchant for highly leveraged real estate deals left him unable to meet his financial obligations starting around 1988. By 1989, the only financing he could obtain was through high-interest rate junk bonds, which he continued to issue even after it was clear that he would not be able to make interest payments on his current debt.

* In 1991, at $3.8 billion in debt, Time reports Trump was forced by his creditors, including bond-holders, to dismantle most of his real estate holdings to begin to repay some of his debt. He dangled on the edge of personal bankruptcy but was able to come to terms with creditors on every holding except the Taj Mahal casino, which filed for bankruptcy protection. When the Taj Mahal re-emerged from bankruptcy, Trump had lost half-ownership in it to the bond-holders.

* In 1992, the Trump Plaza Hotel filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and lost 49 percent ownership in the complex.

* By 1994, Trump had sold off much of his real estate in order to settle almost a billion dollars in personal debt and $3.5 billion in business debt.

* In 2002, the Securities and Exchange Commission filed charges against Trump Hotels and Casino Resorts Inc. for improper and misleading statements on its 1999 earnings release. The case was settled privately.

* In 2004, Trump Hotels and Casino Resorts once again filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Trump was forced to give up another 29 percent of his ownership in the company to bond-holders to restructure. His ownership of the company dropped to 27 percent and he stepped down as CEO.

* In 2008, Trump became embroiled in a lawsuit with Deutsche Bank over the financing of the Trump International Hotel and Tower in Chicago. Sales of the units were sluggish due to the real estate crisis, and Trump stopped payments on his loan, invoking a clause in his contract. Both parties came to an agreement to allow the project to continue; it is still not 100 percent sold yet.

* In 2009, Trump Entertainment Resorts filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy and Trump was forced to vacate the Board of Directors.

* Trump estimates his own net worth at tens of billions of dollars, stating that he does his valuations "in his head." Deutsche Bank estimated his net worth at $788 million in 2005. Trump lost a libel suit against a writer for estimating his net worth at $150 to $250 million, according to the New York Post.

With four business failures to his name, the loss of much of the ownership of his "empire" and continuing pomposity toward his own skills and abilities, the announcement Monday may have shocked no one, but certainly resulted in a collective sigh of relief in both Republican and Democrat circles. Trump got two free months of publicity for his television show and the American public got something more important: a terrifying glimpse of what the Donald might do if he got a hold of the federal coffers.

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William and Kate's Visit to California with a Little Help from Their Friends (ContributorNetwork)

One of William and Kate's royal wedding guests was the British director, Guy Ritchie. He is another one of their friends who is helping to welcome them to Hollywood in July. Besides David and Victoria Beckham the famed director of "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels" is getting assistance from Hollywood executive producer, Steve Tisch. He was the executive producer on a couple of Ritchie's films. Tisch also co-owns the NFL's New York Giants. Now Tisch has the good fortune to host a lavish dinner party for the royal couple who is taking Hollywood by storm. Anyone who is anybody is trying to get an invitation.

Wills, Guy Ritchie and Company

Prince William met Guy Ritchie through his good friend, William Duckworth Chad, who is a real estate agent. Guy Ritchie was in the market for a home during his marriage to the iconic pop star, Madonna. After their introduction Wills became friends with Guy Ritchie. He was even invited to Ritchie's Ashcombe House in Somerset. Eventually Guy Ritchie was later invited to the royal wedding. Steve Tisch had been executive producer on the films Guy Ritchie directed "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels" and "Snatch."

Steve Tisch's Lavish Party

Steve Tisch has been executive producer for a number of other Hollywood blockbuster films such as "Risky Business" that made Tom Cruise a star. "Forrest Gump" was another huge film for Tisch that was not only a box office success, but won Best Picture at the Academy Awards. Now his latest production will be a dinner party for 30 guests to welcome William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, for their first official visit to Hollywood at his home. One of the reasons William and Kate are visiting Hollywood is to promote the success of the British film industry due in part to "The King's Speech." The royal family was very happy with its portrayal.

A-List of Celebrities to Attend

Some of the guests who will be invited to Steve Tisch's opulent home in July are other film studio moguls and A-List actors. A few lucky celebrities, in addition to Guy Ritchie, on the list include Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks and John Travolta. There are British television celebrities who have become international stars in their own right that may or may not be there, due to filming schedules, are Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole of "X-Factor USA." The only other royal to be embraced by Hollywood was William's mother, Princess Diana. Now there's going to be new royals in Tinseltown.

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'Top Gun' at 25: Still Feeling the Need for Speed (ContributorNetwork)

Twenty-five years ago, Tom Cruise first felt the need for speed in "Top Gun," a testosterone-fueled adventure about Navy fighter pilots. Cruise plays Lt. Pete Mitchell, a rebellious pilot who rightly earns the call sign "Maverick." With Lt. Nick "Goose" Bradshaw (Anthony Edwards) as his Radio Intercept Officer (RIO) , Maverick heads to the Navy Fighter Weapons School in Miramar, Calif., to receive advanced training.

A definitive movie from the 1980's, "Top Gun" has characters, situations and dialogue that make it an instant classic.

What is Maverick's gutsiest flying maneuver?

The opening scenes of "Top Gun" show Maverick and Goose engaging with a couple of MiG-28's. To save fellow officers Cougar and Merlin (John Stockwell and Tim Robbins), Maverick does an inverted 4G descent, placing him about 2 meters above the enemy's canopy. Maverick gives the startled enemy pilot the one-fingered salute while Goose takes a Polaroid photograph of the whole incident.

This engagement proved too much for Cougar, who turns in his wings. Following his resignation, Maverick and Goose become the top flyers and are sent to the elite TOPGUN training program at Miramar. Later in the movie, Navy Fighter Weapons School instructors analyze and criticize Maverick's bold move with the MiG-28, saying that is an example of how not to engage the enemy.

How did Pete Mitchell first meet Charlotte Blackwood?

After a preliminary briefing at TOPGUN, Maverick and Goose head out to a local watering hole. Following their standard operating procedures, Goose bets Maverick twenty dollars that he can't have carnal knowledge on the premises "with a member of the opposite sex this time." Maverick immediately targets Charlotte Blackwood (Kelly McGillis), a pretty blonde sitting at the bar.

Going for broke, Pete breaks into an acapella version of "You've Lost That Loving Feeling" and is joined by Goose and other students from TOPGUN. When Charlotte asks him how many times he used that approach, Pete says twice, but he crashed and burned on the first attempt. With Charlotte, however, he's waiting to see how things turn out. Unfortunately for Maverick, Charlotte Blackwood, call sign 'Charlie', is a civilian contractor for the Navy and a TOPGUN instructor.

Why doesn't Goose party as hard as Maverick?

After Maverick gets them in trouble by breaking the TOPGUN rules of engagement, Goose has a quiet heart-to-heart with his friend, saying that "he just wants to graduate." Lt. Bradshaw, as it turns out, has a wife Carole (Meg Ryan) and a young son back home that he's concerned about. Carole brings their little boy out on a visit to Miramar and, as Goose plays a credible version of "Great Balls of Fire" on the piano, Carole utters the immortal line "Goose, you big stud, take me to bed or lose me forever."

Pete Mitchell typically is cocky and self-confident. How does he lose his pilot's edge?

On their final training flight, Maverick and rival Iceman (Val Kilmer) are vying to win the TOPGUN trophy, which is given to the best of the best at Miramar. Flying in tight formation, Maverick and Goose are caught in Iceman's backwash, which causes a double engine failure. With their fighter jet in a flat spin, the two are forced to eject, but Goose hits the canopy head-first and dies instantly. Overcome with guilt, Maverick is unable to engage the enemy in later test flights and temporarily quits the program.

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Can 'That '70s Show's' Ashton Kutcher Replace Charlie Sheen on 'Two and a Half Men'? (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | Ashton Kutcher, who previously appeared on "That '70s Show," has been selected to replace Charlie Sheen on "Two and a Half Men." Kutcher will play a new character opposite the show's other star, John Cryer, according to Deadline Hollywood.

There is no word yet how Sheen's character, the pleasure-loving jingle composer brother of Cryer's chiropractor character, will be written in, who Kutcher's character will be, and how he will be introduced. The new show format, developed by show runner Chuck Lorre, seems to have satisfied everyone concerned. Production for the next season is said to begin as soon as possible.

Names that were mentioned for Sheen's replacement ranged from Rob Lowe to Hugh Grant. Grant had been in serious negotiations which broke down, leading to the selection of Kutcher.

Kucther's selection for "Two and a Half Men" is an interesting one. Whereas Sheen's persona, reflected in the character, was edgy and arrogant, Kutcher's persona is more pleasant and amiable, as developed in "That '70s Show" and his brief film career. The question arises will Kutcher's character be true to type, or will the actor be allowed to stretch a little bit.

The choice of Kutcher is also understandable for two other reasons. First, he is an experienced television actor with a role in another long-running sitcom on his resume. Second, and most importantly, Kutcher has a reputation of being a solid professional whose lifestyle does not generally provide lurid copy for the tabloids. This contrasts with Sheen, whose off-screen behavior, even before he was fired from "Two and a Half Men," has been increasingly bizarre and alarming.

The question arises: Will the format and actor change save "Two and a Half Men" for more than one season? Or will the changes, brought on by the public meltdown of one of the show's stars, condemn the program to television history?

Certainly the people behind and before the camera of "Two and a Half Men" have the talent to pull it off. Viewers of the show are well prepared for the change after watching with horrid fascination Sheen's antics. The proof, of course, will only be apparent when the new version premiers this fall.

Source: Ashton Kutcher New Star Of 'Two & A Half Men' Replacing Charlie Sheen, Nikki Finke and Nellie Andreeva, Deadline Hollywood, May 12, 2011

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Sarah Ferguson on 'Oprah' Tells All on Royal Wedding Snub (ContributorNetwork)

The last Royal couple to marry in Westminster Abbey was Sarah Ferguson and Prince Andrew in 1986. It was a bittersweet moment for the duchess to watch the recent wedding elsewhere, instead of at the Abbey with her own two daughters. Ferguson appeared on "Oprah" Wednesday, May 11. She talked about her being snubbed from the recent Royal Wedding that took place on April 29. We hear her briefly talk about her daughter's unusual hat she wore at the wedding that looked like deer antlers. Sarah was the only guest during the hour show. Oprah Winfrey mostly talked about Sarah's new show on the OWN network.

The Truth Behind the Royal Wedding Snub

It opened with seeing clips from Ferguson's appearance on Oprah in May 2010. This was after the undercover sting scandal where she promised a journalist $724,000 by offering access to Prince Andrew. Before the interview began Sarah wanted to clarify her daughter Beatrice was going to sell her world famous antler hat on eBay where the proceeds would go to UNICEF and other charities. In her own words Ferguson stated she was not invited to the wedding.

She went to a remote area in Thailand where there was no television or radio for her to listen to the wedding. Instead, she called someone in London who put the phone up to the TV to hear what was going on. She mainly did this to learn what her daughters and Prince Andrew were doing. One thing Sarah made clear was that she ostracized herself from the Royal Wedding. The responsibility was hers alone. It made her feel a little bit better that Diana, Prince William's mother, was not there either. They had been close friends since age 14.

Finding Sarah Docu-Series on OWN June 12, 2011

Most of the interview was in promoting the six episode series of the documentary "Finding Sarah" that will premiere on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). There were a number of clips where she has therapy sessions with Dr. Phil that is quite profound. Sarah meets up with financial wizard Suze Orman dealing with her never-ending financial bankruptcy issues. Several clips show her in tears when the British press attacked her on weight gain during her marriage. There's an ironic moment she is riding in a car then tells the driver that's where I use to live, meaning Buckingham Palace.

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'Unlawful Killing,' Accident Photos of Diana Are Exploitative (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | On the heels of England's royal wedding celebration, a new documentary, "Unlawful Killing," has been released about the death of Princess Diana (mother of princes William and Harry). The film shows graphic images of the dying Diana. "Unlawful Killing" attempts to implicate the royal family in yet another cover-up conspiracy.

Diana, along with her lover Dodi al Fayed and their driver Henri Paul, was killed in an auto accident in Paris Aug. 31,1997. The official story has been that Paul was driving drunk and that's what caused the accident, according to ABC News.

"Unlawful Killing" is based on a note written in 1993, by Diana, in which she says she thinks Prince Charles is plotting to have her assassinated. The film points to alleged inconsistencies in the court's handling of the case. Filmmaker Keith Allen call it an "inquest of an inquest."

However, the real mission of "Unlawful Killing" seems to be to spring the photos on the public and the royal family.

Conspiracy theories about Diana's death aren't new. Books have been written linking Diana's death to the royal family. They say the royal family was angry over Charles and Diana's divorce and blamed Diana. Some, such as Truthquake.com, claim political plots and cover-ups were behind the accident.

Followers of Diana say that the royal family was furious that Diana took a lover (although Charles admitted to having been unfaithful to his wife prior to her extra-marital relationships, according to People). Dodi's father Mohammed al Fayed has long espoused the theory that the crash was no accident.

The problem with "Unlawful Killing" is primarily the new death photos. Photos have been released with Diana in the car just moments before the accident. Photos of the car after the wreck have been published. The new photos were taken by press as she was dying and just moments after her death. They are very graphic and show her face badly damaged. It is the first time these pictures have been seen.

Regardless of any scandal or allegations, the biggest concern is the emotional pain and suffering these photos will cause for William and Harry and loved ones of Diana. The death of their mother was distressing enough without saddening them further.

Royal or commoner, no one should be forced to view gruesome photos of deceased loved ones. Setting legal issues aside, it's morally reprehensible.

In some cultures, the family photographs the deceased in his coffin. When my brother passed away, at age 5, family members photographed him. I was horrified, but I wasn't raised with this tradition. However, it is a sign of mourning and respect. Photos are not shown outside the family.

No documentary, however well-meaning, should be allowed to use death photos to tout a cause, incite unrest, gain viewers or turn a profit. Death is very private and should be kept sacred.

Marilisa Kinney Sachteleben writes from 22 years parenting four children, 25 years teaching K-8, special needs, adult education and homeschool.

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Ashton Kutcher Fitting, Disappointing Sheen Replacement (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | Ashton Kutcher has been all but confirmed as the new Two and a Half Men replacement star. According to TV Line, the deal was made official Thursday night, which would answer one of the biggest mysteries on television. Not only is the show officially moving on from Charlie Sheen, but it has a replacement who is a TV veteran and bankable star in his own right. Yet while bringing Kutcher on may pay off for CBS, it may not compare to the earlier rumors that Hugh Grant was interested in the job.

Once Two and a Half Men was spared from a post-Sheen cancellation, CBS set out to find a new A-list headliner, or at least one with some star power. Days ago, the rumor mill suggested that Grant could be that headliner. But then Deadline Hollywood reported that although Grant was offered the job, he turned it down because of its demanding, 24-episode-a-year schedule.

If Grant had taken the deal, it could have been a big shot in the arm for the show. At the least, it would have had another A-list star with a few past sexual exploits to joke about -- albeit not as extreme as Sheen's. But the curiosity factor of having someone like Grant step in would have garnered a lot of interest.

However, since Grant is decidedly British, it would have been much harder to explain how his character would be connected to the show's American family -- or what's left of it. Yet CBS didn't have to wait long to find a backup for its potential replacement; someone who had dealt with a grueling TV schedule for years when he was younger.

Kutcher has proved profitable on TV and in movies, even if he still hasn't won the respect of critics. Because of that, although he has the buzz to keep the show a ratings winner, critics are unlikely to be as intrigued as they might have been with Grant.

It's still uncertain just how the show's quality will be altered, or not, with its new lead. No one even knows what kind of character Kutcher will play, although CBS could provide some details during its upfront day May 18. At the least, the series now has an even bigger Twitter icon than Sheen, and one who is a lot more squeaky-clean by comparison.

The return of Two and a Half Men, and the return of Kutcher to television, is guaranteed to be a big event sometime in September. For that, at least, CBS is winning again for now, even if the revamped show itself might have more question marks than ever.

Sources

TV Line- "It's Official: Ashton Kutcher Replacing Charlie Sheen on Two and a Half Men"

Deadline Hollywood- "MYSTERY MAN REVEALED: Hugh Grant Almost Replaced Charlie Sheen On Men"

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Is Natalie Portman Ruining Oscar Credibility with 'Thor'? (ContributorNetwork)

On May 6, the God of Thunder arose in the newest Marvel production entitled "Thor." The movie stars Chris Hemsworth as the hero with Natalie Portman as leading lady Jane Foster.

Portman has just come off her Oscar winning performance in the "Black Swan" and it may come as a surprise to some fans that she joins the cast of a superhero film. Surprisingly this is the path that many actresses have taken, with a varying amount of success.

The critical reviews and reputation of "Thor" will showcase whether Portman keeps her Oscar credibility by choosing a comic-book role.

2002 Best Actress winner Nicole Kidman has not been in any superhero films since her win, but before she won she was a star in "Batman Forever." The film showcased her to main stream audiences and provided a interesting love interest for Val Kilmer's Bruce Wayne.

The same cannot be said for 2003 winner Charlize Theron. Her sci-fi hero flick "Aeon Flux" was a dud, but she helped redeem her superhero status starring alongside Will Smith in "Hancock."

One of the worst Oscar to hero transitions came from 2001 Best Actress winner Hallie Berry. Berry was memorable in a supporting role for the first three "X-Men" films, but it was her starring role that destroyed her credibility.

Berry starred in the film "Catwoman" which went on to become critically panned and hated by critics. She won the Golden Raspberry award for Worst Actress and the horrendous movie is still talked about today.

Portman should not have to worry too much about following in Berry's footsteps. Portman is the supporting role in the film and any bad critiques will likely fall on the filmmakers or Thor himself. With other roles in the works, her super hero career will most likely model after 1998 Best Actress winner Gwenth Paltrow.

Paltrow played Pepper Potts in both "Iron Man" films and the role helped with the movie's success. She went on to do highly profiled roles in "Country Strong" and television's "Glee."

"Thor" will not be Portman's best acting performance, but along with expanded her resume, it will add credibility to the film and bring in fans who normally would not see the genre.

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'Thor' Serves Up Plenty of Explosions, Special Effects and Action (ContributorNetwork)

In "Thor," the Kenneth Branagh film based on the Marvel Comics stories about the Norse God of Thunder, Chris Hemsworth is properly tall, rugged, blond, and handsome in the title role. Natalie Portman is kind of cute as a spunky climate scientist.

Anthony Hopkins, who plays Odin, banishes his son Thor to the Earth of the 21st century without his powers and without his iconic hammer, which he tosses down to Earth as well, buried in the rock like Excalibur, waiting for the first worthy being to pick it up. Thor is hot headed, arrogant, but down underneath good natured, an appropriate Viking god. He has to learn humility and self sacrifice to become worthy of being one of the Asgard deities.

Thor follows the conventions of the fish out of water story, being helped along by Natalie Portman's character, Jane Foster, and her group of scientists, and hindered by a group of "men in black" secret agents of an organization called "S.H.E.I.L.D." and by his evil brother Loki, played by Tom Hiddleston. Ray Stevenson (from the Rome miniseries), Stellan Skarsgard, and Renee Russo also appear.

As one might expect from a Marvel Comics movie, the story is heavy on special effects and action and somewhat light on character development and plot. Asgard looks like one of those megalopolis style cities from the Star Wars series, all dark and shiny and without much of the Norse d©cor. At one point Loki sends down to Earth a giant laser shooting robot to deal with Thor and his friends. When one of the S.H.E.I.L.D. agents sees it, he asks "You one of Stark's?" in a reference to Iron Man.

Hemsworth is a little inconsistent in his depiction of Thor, smashing coffee cups on the floor, wolfing down breakfast, and yelling one moment, being all good natured and even courtly the next. He also has a Norse accent that fades in and out. But he looks good swinging that hammer and doing other Norse god things.

Natalie Portman, best known for being in three of the Star Wars movies, has little to do but be cute and spunky and also quite short next to Hemsworth. Anthony Hopkins, who spends most of the movie literally in a coma, is magnificent and filled with gravitas as he always is with this kind of role. Tom Hiddleston is sly and devious, as befits Loki, the trickster god.

"Thor" brings in the scifi convention of ancient gods as super aliens misunderstood by the Earth humans. The idea of the bifrost bridge between Asgard and Earth being an wormhole is a nice touch.

If one approaches "Thor" for what it is, an excuse to see explosions and action, one will enjoy it immensely. It is not the worst of the Marvel Comics franchise, but it is also, sadly, not the best either.

Source, Thor, Yahoo.Movies

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Should NBC Fire "Birther" Donald Trump? (ContributorNetwork)

So, Should NBC Fire The Donald?

NBC has the power to discontinue Donald Trump's association with their network by canceling "The Apprentice", and they should exercise that right as quickly as possible.

Perhaps they aren't firing him for the simple reason that this entire debacle is a publicity stunt. While he's not discussing "The Apprentice", everyone else is. He has gained free publicity on every network, and every online news agency. If it is a publicity stunt, I am calling it a failure. The Donald's credibility as a really smart guy, for me at least, is shot.

But they shouldn't fire him for his political affiliations, necessarily. They can ignore that particular issue, if they prefer, with a standard disclaimer that Donald Trump's opinions are his own and do not represent the network's position. That would easily suffice to keep a political distance.

No, they should fire Donald Trump due to serious concerns about his stability and ability to continue filming the program. Donald Trump's reality show, whether fake or not, is based upon giving people, both everyday Americans and celebrities, a chance to show him their business savvy and ultimately land a job.

Do you want a chance to work with the most brilliant business man since ... well... ever, if you believe The Donald's hype? If you do, I would suggest applying to work for someone other than Donald Trump. After all, as an employee of Donald Trump, you may be required to work for him in many capacities. When Jerry Seinfeld withdrew his agreement to appear at a charity event due to his lack of comfort with Donald Trump's recent behavior, that spot was filled by the winner of the most recent season of "Celebrity Apprentice"; Brett Michaels.

Donald Trump's inability to answer even basic questions concerning the policies of our nation proves that he is not as brilliant as the general public has been led to believe. He is the court jester of the current Republican base. For that reason alone, he is no longer qualified to lead the cast of his high-powered, board room centered TV show.

Finally, isn't one Charlie Sheen is enough in Network TV? On the up side, if NBC gets a clue and cuts Donald Trump loose, giving him more time to pursue his new political career, perhaps Mr. Sheen would make the perfect running mate.

Source: Personal Opinion

More from this contributor:

Qualities of an Effective Manager

10 Things to Remember when Interviewing for a Job

First Person: You've Been Served

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Is Ashley Judd's Memoir a Modern Day 'Mommie Dearest'? (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | Did Ashley Judd take a page from "Mommie Dearest" when she wrote her own book about being raised by a celebrity mom? Judd's new memoir, "All That is Bitter and Sweet" reveals painful details about her unconventional upbringing by her mother, country music singer Naomi Judd. Ashley's version suggests the story mama Judd has spun for the media about Ashley's poor-but-happy childhood with her half-sister Wynonna is as fake as margarine.

"My mother, while she was transforming herself into the country legend Naomi Judd, created an origin myth for the Judds that did not match my reality," Ashley Judd wrote in an excerpt of her memoir. "She and my sister have been quoted as saying that our family put the 'fun' in dysfunction. I wondered: Who, exactly, was having all the fun? What was I missing?"

In the book "Mommie Dearest," later turned into a hit movie, Christina Crawford spilled the caviar on her less-than-idyllic childhood with her glamorous movie star mother, Joan Crawford, a Hollywood legend whom Christina claimed beat her with a hairbrush and once attempted to strangle her. The book depicted Joan Crawford as an unhappy, controlling woman who lacked maternal instincts and adopted five children to enhance her image.

Unlike Crawford, Ashley Judd was not raised by a rich celebrity mother. In fact, Naomi Judd was a divorced single mom who struggled financially while attending nursing school when Ashley was a child. When Naomi traded in her scrubs for sequins and started pursing a country music career with her other daughter, Wynonna, Ashley claims she was often left alone for days at a time or shuttled to different relatives' homes. "I often felt like an outsider observing my mom's life as she followed her own dreams," Ashley wrote.

Judd also claimed she was sexually abused by men, one of whom was a relative, and suffered what Ashley called "covert sexual abuse" when her mother took up with her current husband Larry Strickland. Naomi and Larry were "wildly sexually inappropriate, " Ashley wrote. "A horrific reality for me was that when pop was around I would have to listen to a lot of loud sex in a house with thin walls."

Although the childhood wounds of Christina Crawford and Ashley Judd were dramatically different, both women wrote books that disqualify their famous celebrity moms from ever receiving the "Mother of the Year" award. Critics of these two disgruntled daughters may fault them for airing their families' dirty laundry in public, but Judd defends her decision to share details of her nightmarish childhood based on her humanitarian work in Cambodia and elsewhere.

Judd's harrowing childhood gave her the insight and urge to help others. She told Meredith Vieira on "The Today Show" that as the "lost child" in her family she identifies with "people who are lost in our global system." By highlighting her own harrowing childhood, Judd's memoir draws attention to the shared humanity of all women whether they work in a Cambodian brothel or on a Hollywood movie set.

More From This Contributor:

Why Oprah and Kirstie Prove Diets Don't Work

Is Sarah Palin a Crackberry Mom?

Gift Ideas Based on Celebrity Types

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Remembering 'America's Boy' for Life On, Off Screen (ContributorNetwork)

COMMENTARY | Born John Cooper Jr., Jackie Cooper wove his way into the hearts of audiences at an early age. The man who was known at one time as "America's Boy" passed away Tuesday at a nursing facility in Santa Monica, Calif., according to his elder son, John in an Associated Press report.

Remembered best perhaps by baby boomers and their elders for his appearances in "Our Gang" and younger generations for his portrayal of Perry White in Christopher Reeves' four "Superman" movies, Cooper was one of few child actors who went on to successful adult careers.

Jackie Cooper's Early Career

After Cooper's father abandoned the family when he was but 2 years old, his mother did what she could to provide for her family. Beginning at age 3, Cooper acted in silent movies, providing much-needed income for the family.

At the age of 7, Cooper was cast in the "Our Gang" series, appearing in 15 episodes. His childhood film break came in 1931 when he was cast in the movie "Skippy," a film based on a popular comic strip. It was for this role that Cooper received an Oscar nomination, becoming the youngest actor to have done so.

That same year, Cooper played another strong, poignant role in "The Champ," with actor Wallace Beery. Through his teen years, he acted in several films and continued to ride the wave of his popularity with audiences and fellow actors.

It was during the 1930s that Cooper garnered the nickname "America's Boy." His wholesome appearance and demeanor endeared him to audiences and co-workers. His fame as a child star in that era was rivaled most closely by Shirley Temple.

Jackie Cooper Branches Out

Cooper enlisted in the Navy during World War II; upon returning stateside, he found that his former popularity in Hollywood had dwindled. But it was the heyday of television, and Cooper soon found work as an actor, director and producer in the medium. For the T.V. series "Hennesey," a naval dramatic comedy which starred Cooper, who also produced and directed the program through its three years, he was twice nominated for an Emmy for his portrayal of the title character.

Cooper continued to be an actor, but branched out further as a director and producer in television. He received two Emmy awards for directing; one for an episode each of "M*A*S*H" and "The White Shadow."

In the 1960s, Cooper became vice president in charge of production at Screen Gems, the television branch of Columbia Pictures. One of Cooper's successes during the period was the T.V. show "The Flying Nun," starring Sally Field.

Beginning in 1978, Cooper appeared as Perry White, Clark Kent's volatile boss in Christopher Reeves' "Superman," and played the same role through the three subsequent sequels.

It was after the final "Superman" movie that Cooper basically retired from acting and directing. In 1981, he surprised fans with his autobiography, "Please Don't Shoot My Dog."

Cooper was steadfast in his regrets about the childhood he missed due to acting. He was proud to say that none of his four children were child actors. Jackie Cooper was a class act throughout this 60+ years in Hollywood; he will be remembered fondly by many.

Smack dab in the middle of the baby boomer generation, L.L. Woodard is a proud resident of "The Red Man" state. With what he hopes is an everyman's view of life's concerns both in his state and throughout the nation, Woodard presents facts and opinions based on common-sense solutions.

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