LA-area hospital: Heather Locklear released

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. (AP) — Actress Heather Locklear has been released from a Los Angeles-area hospital after being treated for an unknown ailment.

Los Robles Hospital spokeswoman Kris Carraway-Bowman told the Associated Press that she was discharged around 5 p.m. Friday.

The hospital said earlier that Locklear was medically stable and being cared for in an intensive care unit.

The 50-year-old "Melrose Place" actress was taken to the hospital in Thousand Oaks from her home in Westlake Village, 35 miles northwest of Los Angeles, on Thursday.

Locklear has been hospitalized several times over the years. In 2009, she pleaded no contest to reckless driving after being arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of prescription medication.

Locklear also starred in such TV series as "Dynasty" and "T.J. Hooker."

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Evangelist Billy Graham released from hospital

(Reuters) - Billy Graham, one of America's best-known evangelists, was released on Tuesday from a North Carolina hospital after a bout with pneumonia, a hospital spokeswoman said.

Graham, 93, returned to his home in Montreat, North Carolina, after a six-day stay in the hospital.

"I am grateful for the many thoughts and prayers expressed by individuals across the country and around the world during my stay at Mission Hospital," Graham said in a statement.

He will continue a program of physical therapy at home, his staff said in a statement.

"We are gratified that he has had a good response to treatment and we're committed to good home care to continue his improvement," Graham's personal physician, Lucian Rice, said in a statement.

Graham, a preacher of Christian gospel to millions of followers worldwide and a spiritual adviser to several U.S. presidents, was treated in May for a previous bout of pneumonia.

His wife, Ruth, died in June 2007.

(Writing by Mary Slosson; Editing by Jerry Norton)

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Winehouse duet released posthumously on Wednesday (Reuters)

LONDON (Reuters) – British singer Amy Winehouse's final recording before her death in July, a duet with veteran crooner Tony Bennett, will be released on what would have been her 28th birthday on Wednesday.

The track and video of "Body and Soul" were recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London on March 23, and at least some of the proceeds will go to the Amy Winehouse Foundation.

Set up by Winehouse's father Mitch, the charity aims to help young people struggling with addiction.

Winehouse was infamous for her alcohol and drug abuse during a short, tumultuous career, although by the time of her death she was no longer taking illegal drugs, a toxicology report showed.

"We had a beautiful time recording together in the studio and I knew that Amy was very happy with how she performed that day," U.S. singer Bennett, who recently celebrated his 85th birthday, said in a statement.

"I thought she was absolutely brilliant and this recording truly captures the essence of her unique artistry. She was a rare talent."

Winehouse made just two albums before her death, although her 2006 release "Back to Black," featuring her most famous hit "Rehab," was a critical and commercial hit and earned her five Grammy awards.

MTV Networks will premiere the video and song on September 14, and radio stations will also play the track on the day of its release.

Body and Soul is one of 17 songs to be included on Bennett's upcoming album "Duets II," released in the United States on September 20.

It includes recordings with artists including Lady Gaga, Michael Buble and Queen Latifah.

(Reporting by Mike Collett-White, editing by Paul Casciato)

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Michael Jackson jury 30-page survey is released (AP)

By LINDA DEUTSCH, AP Special Correspondent Linda Deutsch, Ap Special Correspondent – Sat Sep 10, 5:14 am ET

LOS ANGELES – Jury selection in the trial of Michael Jackson's doctor is moving forward with 145 prospective jurors cleared for further questioning after answering an in-depth questionnaire probing their views about the King of Pop and the criminal case against his doctor

Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor decided Friday that there were sufficient prospective jurors available to go on to the next phase — in-court questioning on Sept. 23.

The 30-page questionnaire, which seeks extensive personal information, challenged prospective jurors to share their feelings about the dead superstar and about the fact that his famous family members will be in court every day for testimony.

They were asked whether they have seen the posthumous Jackson concert movie, "This Is It," and whether they have bought Jackson CDs, DVDs or memorabilia.

"Have you ever considered yourself a fan of Michael Jackson or the Jackson family?" they were asked.

They were required to specify how much they know about the involuntary manslaughter case against Dr. Conrad Murray, who has pleaded not guilty in Jackson's death from an overdose of the anesthetic propofol.

Among the questions: Have potential jurors read newspaper stories about the King of Pop's death? Have they followed coverage of legal developments? Did they watch the funeral or memorial service for Jackson who died on June 25, 2009, or did they try to attend the services in person?

The form also gave prospective jurors a warning that publicity about the case will be heavy and they must ignore it.

"There will be cameras, reporters members of the Murray and Jackson families, and members of the public present in the courtroom," said one question. "... Would the presence of cameras and these people affect your responsibility to be completely fair and impartial to both parties in the case?"

One question already answered in court was that every member of the jury pool has heard of the high profile case.

The questionnaire included a list of 27 drugs including the anesthetic propofol. Potential jurors were asked whether they had a familiarity with the substances, whether they or anyone they know has taken them and whether they have ever had anesthetic for a medical procedure.

Murray is accused of gross negligence in his treatment of Jackson and prospective jurors were asked about their attitudes toward doctors.

The prospects were asked if they followed media coverage on high profile cases including those of O.J. Simpson, Robert Blake, Phil Spector and Casey Anthony.

"Did you form any opinions about the criminal justice system as a result of following these cases?" the form asked.

They are asked to state if they have formed an opinion on Murray's guilt or innocence.

As in a speech the judge gave to them in person, potential panelists were warned on the questionnaire to avoid Internet coverage of the case including posts on Facebook, Twitter and blogs.

Among the 113 questions asked of prospects was whether they believe celebrities receive special treatment in the criminal justice system.

Lawyers will begin studying the questionnaires in which participants also disclose their backgrounds and knowledge of Jackson's career. Some could be dismissed if they expressed extreme bias in the case.

Pastor lectured the jury candidates earlier in the day on the importance of jury service and their duty to insulate themselves from outside information about the trial.

"The electronic age is upon us," said Pastor, "and there are numerous mechanical devices for obtaining information."

He reiterated concerns that the final jury chosen for the trial will be unable to resist the lure of the Web.

"Some of us can't avoid sharing our thoughts with a quarter of a million people every day," he said in a reference to social networking. "We trust them ... but we don't know what their agenda is."

Pastor also stressed the patriotic duty of jury service. And he had everyone rise and face the flag for a moment of silence in observance of the upcoming 9/11 anniversary.

Murray could face four years in prison and the loss of his medical license if convicted. The trial, expected to last about five-weeks, will focus on the Houston-based cardiologist's actions in the final hours of Jackson's life.

_____

AP Entertainment Writer Anthony McCartney contributed to this report.

_____

Online:

People v. Conrad Robert Murray juror questionnaire: http://bit.ly/p9lE4J

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Michael Jackson jury 30-page survey is released (AP)

By LINDA DEUTSCH, AP Special Correspondent Linda Deutsch, Ap Special Correspondent – Fri Sep 9, 9:56 pm ET

LOS ANGELES – The first phase of jury selection in the trial of Michael Jackson's doctor concluded Friday with 145 prospective jurors cleared for further questioning after answering an in-depth questionnaire probing their views about the King of Pop and the criminal case against his doctor.

The 30-page questionnaire, which seeks extensive personal information, challenged prospective jurors to share their feelings about the dead superstar and about the fact that his famous family members will be in court every day for testimony.

They were asked whether they have seen the posthumous Jackson concert movie, "This Is It," and whether they have bought Jackson CDs, DVDs or memorabilia.

"Have you ever considered yourself a fan of Michael Jackson or the Jackson family?" they were asked.

They were required to specify how much they know about the involuntary manslaughter case against Dr. Conrad Murray, who has pleaded not guilty in Jackson's death from an overdose of the anesthetic propofol.

Among the questions: Have potential jurors read newspaper stories about the King of Pop's death? Have they followed coverage of legal developments? Did they watch the funeral or memorial service for Jackson who died on June 25, 2009, or did they try to attend the services in person?

The form also gave prospective jurors a warning that publicity about the case will be heavy and they must ignore it.

"There will be cameras, reporters members of the Murray and Jackson families, and members of the public present in the courtroom," said one question. "... Would the presence of cameras and these people affect your responsibility to be completely fair and impartial to both parties in the case?"

One question already answered in court was that every member of the jury pool has heard of the high profile case.

The questionnaire included a list of 27 drugs including the anesthetic propofol. Potential jurors were asked whether they had a familiarity with the substances, whether they or anyone they know has taken them and whether they have ever had anesthetic for a medical procedure.

Murray is accused of gross negligence in his treatment of Jackson and prospective jurors were asked about their attitudes toward doctors.

The prospects were asked if they followed media coverage on high profile cases including those of O.J. Simpson, Robert Blake, Phil Spector and Casey Anthony.

"Did you form any opinions about the criminal justice system as a result of following these cases?" the form asked.

They are asked to state if they have formed an opinion on Murray's guilt or innocence.

As in a speech the judge gave to them in person, potential panelists were warned on the questionnaire to avoid Internet coverage of the case including posts on Facebook, Twitter and blogs.

Among the 113 questions asked of prospects was whether they believe celebrities receive special treatment in the criminal justice system.

Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor decided Friday there were sufficient prospective jurors available to go on to the next phase — in-court questioning on Sept. 23.

Lawyers will begin studying the questionnaires in which participants also disclose their backgrounds and knowledge of Jackson's career. Some could be dismissed if they expressed extreme bias in the case.

Pastor lectured the jury candidates earlier in the day on the importance of jury service and their duty to insulate themselves from outside information about the trial.

"The electronic age is upon us," said Pastor, "and there are numerous mechanical devices for obtaining information."

He reiterated concerns that the final jury chosen for the trial will be unable to resist the lure of the Web.

"Some of us can't avoid sharing our thoughts with a quarter of a million people every day," he said in a reference to social networking. "We trust them ... but we don't know what their agenda is."

Pastor also stressed the patriotic duty of jury service. And he had everyone rise and face the flag for a moment of silence in observance of the upcoming 9/11 anniversary.

Murray could face four years in prison and the loss of his medical license if convicted. The trial, expected to last about five-weeks, will focus on the Houston-based cardiologist's actions in the final hours of Jackson's life.

_____

AP Entertainment Writer Anthony McCartney contributed to this report.

_____

Online:

People v. Conrad Robert Murray juror questionnaire: http://bit.ly/p9lE4J

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Russell Armstrong's suicide 911 call released (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – The emergency call made by the friend who found the body of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" husband Russell Armstrong was released on Tuesday, as reports emerged that cast members had filmed a new segment about the suicide for the TV show.

The 911 call obtained by celebrity website TMZ.com revealed that Armstrong's estranged wife Taylor and their 5-year-old daughter Kennedy were both in the house when the body of the venture capitalist was found hanging by an electrical cord two weeks ago.

Taylor Armstrong, who had filed for divorce in July, can be heard sobbing and the caller tells her to keep Kennedy out of the room.

Armstrong committed suicide just three weeks before the September 5 second season premiere of the TV reality show.

Cable channel Bravo has been re-editing the reality TV series, which looks at the lives of wealthy and pampered women in Beverly Hills, because the upcoming season was originally expected to feature the crumbling Armstrong marriage.

Sources close to the show told Reuters on Tuesday that the other "Housewives" got together this week to film a segment in which they discuss the tragedy. But it is not a special or stand-alone episode and Bravo has not yet decided when to broadcast it.

Taylor Armstrong did not take part in the filming.

The second season had been set to premiere on September 5. Bravo has yet to announce how it plans to proceed with the new season of the popular franchise given Armstrong's suicide and the media attention it has attracted.

(Reporting by Piya Sinha-Roy; Editing by Jill Serjeant and Bob Tourtellotte)

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Joe Paterno released from hospital, planning return to work (Reuters)

PITTSBURGH (Reuters) – Legendary Penn State football coach Joe Paterno was released on Tuesday from a hospital where he was taken to be treated for injuries suffered in an on-field collision with a player over the weekend, the university said.

The 84-year-old Paterno's right arm and hip were injured when he was blindsided by a player during a practice on Sunday, Penn State said in a statement.

Paterno was able to walk away after the incident, but he was taken to Mount Nittany Medical Center for tests, the university said.

He was released from the hospital late on Tuesday morning, Penn State said.

It said no surgery had been needed but provided no further details on his condition.

"It's time for everyone to turn the attention to the team," Paterno said in the statement. "We have a lot of hard work ahead in order to be as good as we think we can be."

The university said Paterno had worked on Tuesday's practice plans and was planning to attend a practice on Wednesday.

With 401 victories, Paterno has won more games than any other coach in college football history. He is scheduled to begin his 46th season as coach of the Nittany Lions on September 3, when the team is slated to play Indiana State.

(Reporting by Daniel Lovering; Editing by Ellen Wulfhorst and Jerry Norton)

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Alleged Weiner nude photo released by radio hosts (Reuters)

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) – An alleged photo of Congressman Anthony Weiner's genitals hit the Internet on Wednesday after conservative watchdog Andrew Breitbart shared it with a pair of radio DJs who then tweeted it to the masses.

Breitbart had said repeatedly he had no intention of releasing the photo unless the embattled politician launched a "jihad" against him.

"I'm not releasing it. I can't think of any other publication that wouldn't," he reiterated on XM Sirius' "The Opie & Anthony Show." "I could probably get a gazillion hits off my page -- I'm not doing that to him and his family."

But the two radio hosts goaded Breitbart into showing the photo -- via his cell phone -- to them and some staffers, as well as actor Vincent D'Onofrio, who was also an in-studio guest Wednesday. Breitbart claimed Weiner had sent the photo to "a gal down in Texas."

After Breitbart left the studio, the Opie & Anthony crew, according to their tweets, used footage from their in-studio surveillance camera to grab a still photo off Breitbart's phone screen. Gawker published the uncensored photo, which does not include Weiner's face or any other clues that it is him.

As Opie and Anthony passed Breitbart's phone around, Breitbart is heard saying: "Don't show it anywhere," instructions that were apparently ignored.

Breitbart didn't return phone calls or emails from The Hollywood Reporter, but he told Fox News Channel that he was "mortified" by the photo's release and the behavior of Opie (Gregg Hughes) and Anthony (Anthony Cumia).

"This is the first time that someone surreptitiously grabbed a photo of it," he said. "This is a complete breach of our arrangement that the photo would not be made public. It was a complete violation of trust."

Breitbart has been making the rounds on TV and radio to discuss his role in the Weiner debacle. Breitbart a week ago published on his various websites a lewd photo tweeted by the Democratic congressman from New York to a college woman, though he withheld, until now, the allegedly more incriminating photo of Weiner.

Neither Opie and Anthony nor Sirius XM responded to queries from The Hollywood Reporter, but Opie tweeted about the episode throughout the day. He acknowledged he tried unsuccessfully to take a picture of Breitbart's phone screen. He then tweeted: "Wasn't until @AndrewBreitbart left the studio that we realized what was captured on our video camera."

His partner Anthony issued a press statement that reads, in part: "I want to make it clear that Andrew Breitbart had no knowledge that this photo was being made public. A phone with the photo was being displayed and a camera in the studio caught it. It was then uploaded to Twitter, again, without Andrew Breitbart's knowledge. I regret that this occurred."

The embarrassing revelation of probably the most explicit among the photos Weiner has been sharing with women online comes the same day several news outlets are reporting that Weiner's wife, 35-year-old Huma Abedin, is pregnant with the couple's first child.

The New York Times said that Abedin, an aide to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, headed to Africa on Wednesday with Clinton and that the State Department wouldn't confirm her pregnancy.

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"Camp Rock 2" actor released from hospital (AP)

LOS ANGELES – "Camp Rock 2" actor Matthew "Mdot" Finley has been released from the hospital in a wheelchair and faces "extensive rehabilitation and therapy" following a May 26 motorcycle crash.

Finley's manager, Eric Ortner, said Wednesday the singer-actor was released Tuesday from UCLA Medical Center after undergoing several surgeries for injuries he received when he lost control of his motorcycle in the Santa Monica Mountains and plummeted off a cliff.

Ortner said that Finley suffered multiple injuries to his face, head and legs but is "determined to get back on the dance floor," including a possible stint on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars."

Finley played rival Luke Williams in the Disney Channel sequel starring the Jonas Brothers.

Ortner said Finley was grateful for the many online messages of support he received from fans while in the hospital.

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U.S. evangelist Billy Graham released from hospital (Reuters)

MIAMI (Reuters) – Evangelist Billy Graham was released on Sunday from a North Carolina hospital where he had been treated for pneumonia, the hospital said.

Graham, 92, returned to his home in Montreat, North Carolina, after a five-day stay at Mission Hospital in nearby Asheville, North Carolina. Doctors said his response to treatment was "excellent" but that his recovery would be slow.

"We expect continuing recuperation at home with very gradual recovery, returning to normal activities over several weeks. I'm delighted that he has come back this fast," Dr. Lucian Rice said in a statement released by the hospital.

Graham thanked the hospital staff and said he had been "deeply touched by the prayers and best wishes of so many people" and that he looked forward to resuming normal activities soon.

Graham, one of the best-known American evangelists, has preached the Christian gospel to millions worldwide and given spiritual advice to numerous U.S. presidents.

He has retired and his son Franklin Graham now leads his Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

(Editing by Peter Cooney)

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